from africa with amor

25
www.oceanstylemagazine.com
MUST DOS IN
TOBAGO
+
NY FASHION WEEK
In Front and Behind The Hottest Shows
SHOPPING NYC: SHOP TIL YOU DROP!
MICHELE ROLLINS:
PUTTING ON THE RITZ!
An island love affair that has
brought true luxury to Jamaica
US$4.99 / UK£3.00
YELENA
FROM AFRICA
WITH AMOR
A DVERTORIAL
Trincity Mall
T
rinidad & Tobago has emerged in recent years as
the mecca of shopping in the Caribbean. The recent
development of the country’s energy and real estate
sectors has seen great gains in the prosperity of its
inhabitants who now enjoys the luxuries and benefits of first class retail environments on par with
some of the well known shopping destinations of
Miami and New York.
In a sea of growing choices Trincity Mall
stands head and shoulders as a retail environment
where you can be assured of access to some of the
top brands on offer from shoes, sunglasses and
jewelry to mobile phones, home electronics and
videogame systems in a safe, comfortable and readily accessible location.
Mall Director y
$10.00 DOLLAR SHOP
A. A. LAQUIS
AINSLEY & CO LTD.
AIRTOO
ALL OCCASIONS PARTY OUTLET
AMAN JEWELLERS
AMELIA'S FLORAL DESIGN
ANASTASIA'S
ANGELS
ATE LOGO
AVIATOR ENTERTAINMENT CBE
AZUL
BANG BANG
BANG BANG BOUTIQUE
BANG BANG FOR MEN
BANG BANG LITTLE SHOP
BEACH BREAK SURF SHOP
BEEFEATERS
BELLE ITALIA
BENIHANA (regency restaurant)
BLUEGRASS
BLUSH
BMOBILE
BODYCOLOGY
BOOTLEGGERS
BRENNA LIMITED
BRICOLAGE
BRIDAL SOLUTIONS
BUD'S & BLOOMS FLOWER SHOP
BUI YA KAH
BURGER KING
CACHE
CACHE
CAESAR'S
CAFÉ CARIBBEAN
CAJEVI BODY & BATH
CANDYLICIOUS
CANDYSHACK
CANGIEL
CARDS & STUFF
CARIBBEAN CINEMAS 8
CARNABY STREET
CATWALK
CD ROM LIBRARY
CEVARA REALTY
CHAPS OF LONDON/Rebel Spirit
CHARRANS BOKSTORE
CHEZ LA BEAUTE
CHEZ LA FEMME
CHRISTIAN EDUCATION CENTRE
CLARKS SHOE SHOP
CLOTHESTYME FASHIONS
COLFIRE
COSMETIC MARKET (Kiosk)
CRAFT CREATORS
CRÈME BRULEE
CW HOME DEPOT/Home Finishes
D & K INVESTMENTS (LOTTO BOOTH)
D RANCH/Ramps Customs
DA VINCI'S ART SHOP
This retailing paradise is ideally
located less than ten minutes from Piarco International Airport. With prosperity come challenges and in addition
to its host of entertainment and dining
options Trincity Mall offers a destination to take care of all your shopping
needs without having to endure the
traffic that snarls down into Port of
Spain and other densely populated
areas.
You can fly into Trinidad and
over a couple of days take care of all
your shopping needs – happily returning home a few hours away with
all your designer wear and glitzy jewels feeling like a modern day Santa
Claus.
Shopping can already be a
stressful exercise but at this newly expanded mall there are a wide array of
activities that are designed to ease
your pain while giving you the wide
DAYSTAR GIFT SHOP
DELUXE DRY CLEANERS
DETOUR
DIGI CONNECT
DIGICEL
DONUT BOYS
DOUBLE 6 JAMACIA (DJ6)
DREAM HOME FURNISHINGS
EASTERN COMMERICAL LANDS
ESPREE / ENVY / SU CASA / VIRS Limited
ETTIENNE FILIPE/Total U fashion
EXCLUSIVE SHOE REPAIR
FERREIRA OPTICAL
FIRST STEP SHOE STORE
FORTUNE COOKIE
FRANCIS FASHION
FRANCIS FASHIONS
FUN KIDS
FUNATICS
GALACTICA/Chico enterprises
GENERATION GAP
GENERATION GAP/BC
GENTLEMAN'S CLUB/Den for men
GET CONNECTED
GET CONNECTED/Trinicell
GG COLLECTION
GIFTS UNLIMITED
GLAMOUR & GLITTER
GLENDALE DRUGS
H & G WATCH COMPANY
HAIR PORTFOLIO BEAUTY SALON
HAYDEN SALANDY
HAZENA'S WHOLESALE
HEALTH NET LIMITED
HELLO COMMUNICATIONS
HIP HOP
HIP HOP
HOME SMART/Rose Distribution
HONG KONG CITY
HOT CHOCOLATE/Fashion Fever
HOTTS EXCLUSIVE
IOS
ISHMAEL KHAN
JAM ENTERPRISES LTD.
JANIQUE'S
JAN'S FASHIONS
JAWHARAS
KALLIE'S WATCH SALES CENTRE
KANHAI RAGUBIR JEWELLERS
KENNY'S SPORTS CENTRE
KENNY'S SPORTS CENTRE
KERIKA'S HOME & GIFT SHOP
KEYHOLE (THE)
KFC
KISS KIOSK
KITCHEN KORNER
KNOWLEDGE ZONE
KRISTINA'S
KRISTINA'S
KRISTINA'S SHOE SHOP
LA THERAPIE
LAPTOP CITY
range of choice and attractive prices
that make a trip to this mall a must for
residents and visitors alike. In fact,
with all that is available Trincity Mall
really offers a true family outing. Stay
at the nearby (walking distance) recently opened Holiday Inn Express
and in-between the shopping enjoy a
round (or two) on the PGA-rated Millennium Golf Course next door or
catch one of the latest Hollywood
Blockbusters at Caribbean Cinemas 8.
For sustenance there are eating
choices in abundance – from the many
choices in the food court to sushi at
Benihana there are shopping breaks
aplenty!
So come to Trincity Mall, enjoy all
that we have on offer and enjoy a family outing in a safe and secure environment offering the widest range of
shopping and entertainment activities
in one space in the Caribbean.
LE SAC
LES STYLES
MA NOH MIH NA / Kids Kingdom
MAHARAJ BUILDING ENTERPRISE
MANDY'S FASHIONS
MARAJ LEGACY
MARIO'S
MAUREEN'S
MEGAN'S BRIDAL
MEN WITHOUT HATS
MICLES
MINI SHAK TRADING
MUSIC SHAK
NATURALIZER SHOE STORE
NEW BLOOM NURSERIES
NEW VINTAGE
NEW YORK NEW YORK
NIGEL R. KHAN BOOKSELLERS
OH FUDGE
OPNET INTERNATIONAL
PALM DESIGNS LTD. / Bambino Express
PAYLESS SHOE STORE
PENNYWISE COSMETICS
PERFUME HUT
PHOTOWORLD / CLM Photo Limited
PIZZA BOYS
PIZZA HUT/KFC / Prestige Holdings
POP UP KIOSK
POPEYE'S
PRETTY FEET
PRICELESS
PROACTIVE SOLUTION/Reliable Imports
(kiosk)
QUIZNO'S
R.I.K.
RADICAL DESGNS
RADIO SHACK
RAYCOOL
RBTT BANK
REPUBLIC BANK LIMITED
RITUALS COFFEE SHOP
SAG TRADING
SAG TRADING
SALAD CREATIONS
SAPODILLA GIFT SHOP LIMITED
SELECTIONS
SHAM'S ELECTRONICS LIMITED
SHOE FRENZY
SHOE LOCKER
SINCERELY YOURS
SOUTH CARIBBEAN/Caribbean jewellers
SPORT OUTLET
SPORTS & GAMES
SPORTS MASTER
SPORTS WORLD
STATIONERY WAREHOUSE
STEFANO'S
STEPHENSONS
STRIDON SHOES
SUBWAY/Almand Investments
SUITE 16
SUITE 16 DESIGNER
SUITE 16 PLUS SIZE
SUITE 16 SHOES & ACCESSORIES
SUPER TEN
SWEET FIFI
SYMMETRY DIRECT
T & T POSTAL SERVICE
TCBY
TESSA'S EXCLUSIVE
THE CHINESE WOK
THE HEDGE/Ahoy's Trading
THE HERBARIUM/CHERMER
THE LONDON CLOTHING COMPANY
TIGHT ASSETS
TIMBERLAND
TONY'S TAILORING
TOTAL BRANDS LIMITED
TOY MART
TRANSWORLD TRAVEL/HCU
TROPICAL PET AND SUPPLIES
TRU VALU
TSTT
ULTIMATE AGENCIES
UNIQUE INVESTMENTS
USA VIDEO
VIAJERO KIOSK
VICTORIA'S
VIRTUAL ZONE
VISHALA'S GIFT CENTRE
VISION OPTICAL
VISION OPTICAL
WE CELL
WESTPORT
WESTPORT BODY
WESTPORT KIDS
WING SING & COMPANY
WONDERFUL WORLD
WONDERFUL WORLD ACCESSORIES
W'S NURSES & VARIETY STORE
YAMMERS ROTI SHOP
YOGEN FRUZ/SPRINKLES
YOU CAN
YOUNG GENERATIONS
YUFE'S
ZINA'S COSMETICS
ZINA'S JEWELLERY
ZIPPERS
ZITA'S BOUTIQUE
C O N T E N TS
36
Seemingly frozen in time and
beauty, Havana provides the
backing for an exhibition only
fit for a queen.
Volume 3, Issue 5
24 Rise and Shine
28 Accessorize with the latest and greatest!
34 How sweet the smell…
FASHION + STYLE + BEAUTY
36 Reina Africana
Some of the hottest fragrances this Season.
Fashion meets the rich culture, architecture and majesty of
old world beauty in the streets of Havana.
55
NY Fashion Week
73
Fabulous in Fendi
The conversion of Bryant Park from relaxing open space to the centre
of high fashion is a phenomenon of such intensity that mere words fail
in their attempt to capture the energy; The most powerful designers
in the the world trot out their designs for the season in fashionEs
commercial capital.
The Resort 2008 collection from the iconic design house was so
inspiring it demanded an entire Fendi story.
89 Shoe Fetish
55
There is a passionate love affair between a fashion-forward woman
and her shoes that defines traditional logic and rational explanation.
Our own Robert Manella presents a fashion spread that beholds
the power of the shoe.
32 Woman of Influence ; Dionyse Fitzwillam
FEATURES
As she blazes a path of success at the Wall Street firm of Rice Financial
Products, the self-professed Disland girlE stays ready for all that life is
ready to offer.
65 Shopping in the Big Apple
Not only is NY the capital of capitalism itEs the mecca of shopping. The
Ocean Style guide will give you the full 411 on where to go G whether your
flavour is AmEx Centurion or VISA DebitG there is something for
everyone in the city that never sleeps - from couture on Madison Avenue
to bargains at H&M.
68 Retail Therapy ; a la Caribbean
Ocean Style Editor-at-Large Novia Whyte gives us a whirlwind gander
through the Caribbean!
71 Ye´lena Noah
This beautiful daughter of 1980s tennis legend Yannick Noah is making
her own way on catwalks and magazine pages across the globe. But with
her relaxed manner and easy laugh she isnEt taking herself too seriously in
the climb up the modelling ladder.
85 Michelle Rollins
A love affair with the Caribbean island that goes back to the 1970s,
Rollins continues to put her business acumen and investment dollars
to work in the island paradise of Jamaica.
95 Johnny Bloomfield
Having lived in Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados, St, Kitts and Jamaica,
this young golfer boasts a truly Caribbean upbringing which he is ready
to unleash on the illustrious PGA tour.
The next best thing to being
there is seeing what fashion’s
top designers unveiled at
New York Fashion Week.
33
HEALTH + FITNESS
More Naughty than Nice
Some gifts for that Love Package.
26 Martell Cognac Noblige
53 Half Moon Ambassador Awards
103 NY Fashion Week
ON SPOT
93 25 Must Do9s in Tobago
97 50 Years of Magic at Half Moon
101 15 Must Do9s in Cuba
ESCAPE
(TRAVEL + LEISURE)
73
A world of design is
brought to life as we
bring the latest from
fashion powerhouse Fendi.
95
99
OCEAN LIVING
114
Pro golfer Johnny Bloomfield sets
his sights, and Caribbean flavour on
making an impact on the PGA tour.
Edible Vibes
Mix & Stir - Drinks recipe page
PULSE
69 Kerrymanwomanhome
(SHOPPING + MUSIC + MOVIES + BOOKS + EVENTS)
The BinC spot for shopping in Kingston.
104 Ocean Cocktail
Editor-at-Large Jasmine Dotiwala with a star-studded round up
includes hip hopper 50 cent.
107 Ocean Style Hot Auto Guide:
BBuckle Up!C
111
Ocean Style Video Game Buying Guide:
Whats hot right now!
10
CONTENTS
ON THE REGULAR
14 Masthead 16 Editor9s Note
18 Letters to the Editor
20 Advertiser9s Contact Page 23 Conributors
Contents
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
DOUGLAS K. GORDON
DOUGLAS@OCEANSTYLEMAGAZINE.COM
MANAGING EDITOR
ANNA-LISA MILLER
+ PHOTOS)
– DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY
COLIN WILLIAMS – SENIOR PHOTOGRAPHER
JASMINE DOTIWALA – EDITOR AT LARGE
NOVIA WHYTE – EDITOR AT LARGE
ISABELLE TIN-AUNG – BEAUTY EDITOR
DAGMARA, TRACEY FERGUSON, NIKISHA JACKSON, KIM YOUNG BELGRAVE, ELINA FURMAN, ALLISON KILKENNY, HUDSON VERNON, RAWLE FRANCIS, ANIKA REPOLE, MICHELLE JONES, RACHEL GOLDEN (BRITTO AGENCY)
FASHION
+
ROBERT MANELLA
ART
LIFESTYLE (TEX T
+ DESIGN + LAYOUT
ART DIRECTOR: FRANK RENEAU, ARTISTIC CONSULANT: DONNIE SUPERVILLE, WEBSITE MANAGEMENT: DANIEL SMITH, WEBMASTER: ANDREW MANSWELL, WEBSITE EDITOR: KELLY PARRIS, ILLUSTRATIONS: RORIE ATKINSON
ADVERTISI NG SALES
USA:
KELLY PIERRE-LOUIS
305.921.9052 FAX 305.395.5195
E-MAIL: ADS@OCEANSTYLEMAGAZINE.COM
& CIRCULATI ON
868-694-2243
WEB: WWW.OCEANSTYLEMAGAZINE.COM/SUBSCRIBE
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SUBSCR IPTIONS
TELEPHONE:
MAIL:
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR:
E-MAIL: EDITOR@OCEANSTYLEMAGAZINE.COM
11435 NW 34TH STREET, SUITE 412, MIAMI, FL 33178
FAX:
305.395.5195
EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT: JANE MACDONALD: JANE@OCEANSTYLEMAGAZINE.COM
BLUE WOLF MEDIA, INC.
PRESIDENT
– DEIKA MORRISON
NO PART OF OCEAN STYLE MAGAZINE MAY BE REPRODUCED IN ANY FORM OR BY ANY MEANS WITHOUT PRIOR WRITTEN CONSENT FROM BLUE WOLF MEDIA, INC.
FOR ADDITIONAL REPRINT INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT US AT INFO@OCEANSTYLEMAGAZINE.COM OR FAX US AT 305-395-5195
WWW.OCEANSTYLEMAGAZINE.COM
DIVE IN AT oceanstylemagazine.com
FROM THE EDITOR
I
t is with a great deal of excitement that we
bring you an issue bursting with fascinating
content! Also as our fifth issue for 2007 there
is also a sense that we’re ‘getting there’ and
that the formula is getting increasingly better
based on the feedback and the markets that
are opening up for Ocean Style.
First we count ourselves fortunate to
catch some time with Michele Rollins who
together with her late husband have brought
the Ritz-Carlton, Rose Hall Resort and done
so much to bring luxury tourism to the North
Coast of Jamaica. A fascinating story of determination and persistence this is an almost
50 year commitment to a dream to create
10,000 jobs and create a grand resort by an
American couple who counted the tiny state
of Delaware as their home and ended up
falling in love with the island known for its
land, wood and water.
Also in this issue we bring you ten pages
straight off the catwalks of high fashion from
NY Fashion Week. Ocean Style was right
there in the midst of some of the hottest designers showcasing the top looks for this winter season.
Then we bring you a fashion story
straight from Fendi Fifth Avenue shot by the
talented Robert Manella. See why Fendi continues to reign supreme for fashion forward
women from Milan to Port of Spain. We also
transport you to a photo adventure with
young upcoming model Yelena Noah, in
‘African Queen’ captured by the keen eye of
photographer Dagmara and treat you to an
interview with Yelena (daughter of French
Open Champion Yannick Noah).
For those of you heading off to Tobago
for a short or long trip be sure to read our 25
Must Do’s so that you are sure to get in all
the sights!
So enjoy this packed issue but also at
this time we extend a special plea...to be
mindful of those less fortunate this Season.
There is everything right about using this
year end to celebrate and even over-indulge
as we’re sure you have worked hard and indulging in the joy of gift-giving (even to oneself) means that your enterprise and
endeavor has equipped you with the means
to share and that is a good, very good, thing.
We just remind you that the festive Season also descends on those who are not
doing so well and it is at this particular time
that those disappointments and difficulties
can seem all the more acute. We ask you to
open up your hearts and wallets to give to
those organizations which toil through the
year to extend a helping hand in various capacities. There are many organizations from
which to choose and many cases and individuals who are extremely worthy.
Whatever your cause, whoever the recipient we encourage you to give – generously and with a happy heart. The joy that we
get from a loved one’s generosity pales in
comparison to the thoughtfulness of a
stranger. At Ocean Style we encourage you
to support cancer education and awareness a cause we have tried to support over the
year. We encourage you to make a contribution to the Cancer Society close to you and
make a meaningful contribution to the organizations led and staffed by especially devoted, committed and compassionate people
who strive to help those afflicted and affected
by cancer - which remains the #1 cause of
death in the region. Over this year through
our editorial efforts in each issue I have
learnt a great deal about this disease, not the
least that so many instances are now fully
treatable with early and accurate detection.
So I urge and encourage you to give – from
your heart and generously. Whatever your
cause the point is lending a helping hand to
one, two or more people in need. Give them
some light and help them to believe in the
goodness of mankind in whatever their state
of pain, grief or difficulty. As they say a little
love can go a long, long way.
Warmest,
Douglas
douglas@oceanstylemagazine.com
LETTERSTO T HE
EDITOR
A friend was recently telling me about this
magazine and how good it is and we were
standing in Duane Reade and she pulled it
down off the shelf. I was very impressed to
see it there – the quality is very good.
Sim on
New York City
Dear Ocean Style:
I love the downloadable PDF version of
the magazine. I usually buy your issues in
the grocery as I enjoy the glossy pages
and placing it on my coffee table but the
convenience of accessing the magazine
via my computer is awesome.
Hilary
Trinidad & Tobago
Ocean Style Magazine is on par with W magazine
or any of the other top lifestyle/fashion trade
magazines. How wonderful to see and read the
amazing fashion layouts, featured artist,articles
and editorials. The Rhianna issue totally ROCKS...
N a i ma
Trinidad / New York City
Momentos de Oro photographed exclusively
for Ocean Style in Cuba by Dagmara
Your new website design is
excellent. You guys just keep
getting better. Keep it up!
Another beautiful issue! Remind me -- why do
I live in New York City and not the Caribbean?
I want a dolphin and horse (page 46 & 48) too!
Also, interesting article on page 110.
M e la n ie
Kingston
Allis on
New York City
Nice viewing on the website...think I’m
gonna buy me a copy. Good to see great
work coming out of the Caribbean.
I recently moved up to NY and I am seeing
Ocean Style all over the City – good to know
that leaving the Caribbean doesn’t mean I
have to leave everything behind!
Re a g a n
Trinidad and Tobago
Sam antha
Kingston / Brooklyn, NY
DESTINATIONS
Tobago House of Assembly – Tobago, visittobago.gov.tt
Tourism Development Company – T&T, visitTNT.com
AIR, HOTELS & SPAS
Air Jamaica, airjamaica.com
British Airways, ba.com
Sandals Resorts, sandals.com
Jamaica Pegasus, jamaicapegasus.com
Tradewinds Hotel, tradewindshotel.net
Half Moon, halfmoon.com
BANKING, FINANCE & INSURANCE
CLICO, clico.com
First Citizens Bank, simplyfirst.net
VISA, visa.com
AUTOMOTIVE & RENTAL CARS
Jaguar (Classic Motors)
Kalloo’s Auto Rentals, kalloos.com
Mercedes Benz (Sterling Motors), sterlingservicett.com
FASHION & PERSONAL CARE
Movado, theroyalshop.com
Dior
Hublot, theroyalshop.com
Revlon, revlon.com
HCL Premier Malls, hcltt.com
MEDIA
Jamaica Observer, jamaicaobserver.com
MTV Tempo – an MTV Network, gottempo.com
WIN TV, wintvworld.com
OTHER PRODUCTS & SERVICES
Supreme Ventures Limited, supremeventures.com
ARTECH
Keyland Real Estate
PAS Cargo USA
Prime Restaurant, trentrestaurants.com/prime
Vibes Cuisine
Ocean Spray
To advertise: e-mail ads@oceanstylemagazine.com
or call 868-622-1844 or 305-921-9052
US$25 for 6 ISSUES
SUBSCRIBE
TODAY!
call 868.622.1844
www.oceanstylemagazine.com
ADVERTISTER’s
CONTACT PAGE
CONTRIBUTORS
Novia McDonald
Novia McDonald is the glamorous and
fashionable, fashion, food and
lifestyle maven of the Caribbean.
From her position as Lifestyle Editor at
the Jamaica Observer she keeps her
readers attuned to who and what is hot
and, just as emphatically, not!
Her success has been one of the not so
secret weapons that have catapulted the
circulation of the daily skyward.
The annual Jamaica Observer Food
Awards, the Business Awards and not to
mention the daily staple that is her Page
2 column are just a handful of her many
successful initiatives now attaining regional prominence. Novia, somehow,
manages to balance the heavy demands
of her life at the newspaper with the
indulgences of many of life’s finer things
that keep her, to coin a phrase,
simply “fabulous”!
Dagmara
Robert Manella
New York based Robert Manella has been a professional
photographer for more than 20 years. While studying as Art
Major in London, Robert picked up the camera and hasn't
stopped shooting since.
A regular contributor to Ocean Style and now our Director
of Photograph, Robert has a vast knowledge and passion for
photography. Talented across many different genres - lifestyle,
beauty, fashion, stock or architecture he shot the Fabulous in
Fendi and NY Fashion Week Features in this issue.
For more than 10 years, Dag ma ra's images have filled the pages of fine magazines internationally, appeared in successful advertising campaigns, been exhibited in top art galleries, auctioned and richly
awarded. Her extraordinary imagination and brilliant insight into her subjects' characters has made her a
premier photographer.
She began snapping as a young woman in her native Poland, made a stop in Paris, set up a shop in NYC
and now has the privilege to travel the world and to exotic locations shooting all the while. Opportunities became more abundant as fashion, advertising and editorial clients saw her talent to bring out the side of her
subjects that others could not. Distant and fussy subjects warmed to her, rigid ones relaxed, unique looking
ones became swans and the images were always intimate, captivating and sometimes from another world
entirely.
Her work spans from edgy, spontaneous images to perfectly lit beauty shots to warm, loving lifestyle images. It's her joie de vivre and love for music and cinema that keep her passionate and inspired. She's graced
the pages of Italian, German, and French Elle; Spanish, British and German Glamour; American and Spanish
Cosmopolitan, British and Italian Marie Claire, Italian Vanity Fair, Oyster, Spoon and Soma, her advertising
clients include Puma, Liz Claiborne, Armani Exchange, Alberta Feretti and others; and the group of celebrities she's photographed includes: Marvin Gaye, Corinne Bailey Rae, Vivica A. Fox, Macy Gray and others.
To Advertise in
Ocean Style Magazine
Please contact us at:
douglas@oceanstylemagazine.com
or
305.921.9052
24
I beAuTY I
OCEAN STYLE
&
RISE
SHINE
Shu Uemura Blotting Papers
Wipe away any excess oil with
these thin sheets of paper used for
the face. By blotting on the surface
of the skin, it gently absorbs the oil
and shine produced throughout
the day. Good for quick touch-ups.
40 sheets, shueuemura.com, $12.
Lancôme Pure Focus Cleanser Cleansing Gel with Micro-Beads Oil-Free
There is no better way to conquer the war on
oily pores than from the very first step of your
attack. Begin your day with an oil-absorbing
purifying cleanser. Use day and night. Skin is
softer with a fresh and natural effect. Unclogs
oily pores. lancôme.com, $21.
RISE ABOVE AND GO SHINE-FREE DURING THE DAY
WITH THE HELP OF THESE OIL ABSORBING PRODUCTS.
Isabelle Tin-Aung
Clinique Pore Minimizer
T-Zone Shine Control
Checking your T-Zone in the mirror
regularly throughout the day for fear
you might resemble a greasy bake
tray? This oil-free gel reduces the
shine which accumulates around the
T-zone of your face to give you a natural complexion. Can be used under
or over make up. macys.com, $13.50
Get Even by Benefi
fitt Cosmetics
Blot the oil away with this
pressed powder by Benefit
Cosmetics. The end result will
give you a matte finish and
flawless looking skin.
sephora.com, $28.
ON SPOT
Hill Harper with his book,
2Letters To A Young Brother3
Ludacris speaking
Tracy Mourning
and Barbara Becker
Alonzo Mourning
and Hill Harper
Ananda Lewis and
Cynthia Garrett
Martell Cocnac’s
Noblige
National
Nobility Tour
Adrienne Bailon
and Rich Hilfiger
Hill Harper accepting
his donation
5 ATLANTA,
GEORGIA 6
Honoring philanthropic celebrities
of color and celebrating the
advancement of the
African American community.
October 4 - 7, 2007
photography by The Britto Agenxy
Holly Robinson-Peete,
Hill Harper and Nia Long
Ludacris and
his mother
Roberta Shields
Braylon Edwards
Rodney Peete and
Holly Robinson-Peete
Frank Mullen,
Ludacris and
Hill Harper
28
I fashion + style I
OCEAN STYLE
FACETS
Resin
Amber colored resin
jewelry goes soft serve
for something
fresh and authentic
Wiggle Room
Eye-catching, party-girl earrings hold
all the attention at your face. Perfect for
holiday parties
WE WANT THEM, GOTTA’ HAVE THEM, CAN’T MOVE ON
WITHOUT THEM. DESIGNS WE’RE JONES-ING THIS FALL
T
his may be your first introduction to LK Jewelry Design, but take note; it’s one of the
fastest growing fashion jewelry names in Paris, New York, London, Moscow, and Tokyo.
Every piece is hand made with the highest quality materials --unique Bohemian crystal
stones, Swarovski components, top quality leather, and specially designed elements.
So who’s behind the extraordinary color combinations and sensational sparkle?
Would you believe she’s a former web and graphic designer who realized that her dream
of combining fashion with her design skills to create her own collection? Starting from
Leetal’s work studio at home, she has been able to turn LK into a true success story.
Toy Story
Add a dash of childish whimsy with
the season’s playful toy inspired
adornments; by Sevan
Wrist Watch
Hassan Bounkit’s glamorous
beaded bracelets infuse high
drama into the most basic of
ensembles
Rockstar by Sevan
The Evil Eye Bangle
by Kara Ross
32
I feATure I
OCEAN STYLE
s a Vice President at Rice Financial Products
Company Dionyse Fitzwilliam, plays a key role
at the municipal derivatives specialist Wall
Street firm. Seated in her modern office high
up in a NY skyscraper she enjoys some pretty
spectacular views. Those views offer a sharp contract to the
warm breezes, ocean and coconut trees that mark life in
Trinidad and Tobago, the land of her upbringing.
While beauty runs deep in her prominent Trinidadian
family, the gorgeous bachelorette won’t divulge the details
on her love life, “I keep the private life private, but I am not
yet married.” With one sister this Capricorn has called New
York home for the past 13 years and while she remains
guarded about her personal life confesses that she looks
forward to having a family – “I’d love to have a family; husband, 2 kids and maybe a dog or goldfish.”
Dionyse (pronounced dee-oh-knees) holds a BBA Finance summa cum laude from Baruch College (City University of New York) with her Series 7 and Series 63 NASD
licenses. Her tenure at Rice Financial Products started in
1999 after 2 years with Merrill Lynch where she worked as
a financial analyst.
A
DIONYSE
FITZWILLIAM
WOMAN
OF INFLUENCE
photo by
Robert Manella
Rice is an institutional investment bank
whose clients are solely public purpose entities
and municipalities. The firm offers these clients
short term cash brokerage, fixed income underwriting and financial engineering through the
use of derivatives.
Dionyse spearheads the marketing effort
for municipal derivatives which typically demands travel to various states across the U.S. to
meet with the senior finance staff and/or heads
of state and local governments to propose financing ideas to more efficiently manage their
capital programs. Her portfolio also includes
training and managing the analysts at the firm’s
NY headquarters, and liaising with legal counsel, financial advisors and the rating agencies to
assist the clients in executing transactions.
While her job is intense and demands the
long hours so typical of life in New York’s financial sector, Dionyse unwinds with international
travel, cooking and baking and entertaining
friends with tea and dinner parties at home. She
is also a mentor to some young people and an
avid reader. Her svelte figure is maintained
courtesy a regular exercise regimen.
Where will Dionyse Fitzwilliam be in ten years
time?
I truly live in the present, so I just try to appreciate each day. I’m not even sure of where I will
be or what I may want next month, so I try my
best to embrace and enjoy what is, as opposed
to what has been or might be. Life seems to
have worked ok thus far, and I have been truly
blessed.
What woul d you like to be remembered m ost
for, your legacy?
I just want to be remembered for always making
people content, they should leave me feeling
better than when they first met me, with smiles
on their faces and some joy in their hearts.
So after 13 years in New York, does Dionyse see
life back in T&T or any other Caribbean island?
The truth is I see myself settling wherever my
heart takes me; love is really the purest reason
to live.
DIONYSE
&
SHOPPING
How often do you go shopping?
Not often, as I’m more of an impulse shopper. In NYC it’s truly a sport in which I do
not regularly participate because of time
constraints. The on-line shopping phenomenon is my very good friend. I have
ordered gowns, even groceries on jet
ways and at airline clubs because of my
travel schedule…God bless the worldwide
web!
What’s your favourite store?
Neiman Marcus/Bergdorf Goodman
Who’s your favourite designer?
I wear many designers, but I love Meiling’s
clothing and Yves St. Laurent’s shoes. I’m
more of a clean and classic kinda girl.
What’s your most recent purchase?
Shoes – Donald J. Pliner: a pair of chocolate peep toe sling back wedges and a pair
of leopard stilettos.
NAUGHTY
THANNICE
GIFTS FOR HER: A PERSONAL
MORE
Anika Repole
illustration by Rorie Atkinson
LOVE KIT
ex by any name or term is an essential part of
any romantic relationship. Whether you
have known your mate for what seems like
forever, just got married or just met, most
humans enjoy the thought and act of sex.
S
Truth be told it can be quite difficult to maintain and enhance passion, particularly after years of being involved. What is important is to
incorporate the essence of your relationship; so that “passion” exists in
all that you do as a couple. Fellas, here are a few suggestions in putting
together a Personal Love Kit for your special someone.
First off, here are some key things to remember in putting together your Love Kit: 1) Include things that BOTH of you will enjoy or
are willing to give a try. 2) Exclude things that will gather dust in some
hidden part of the closet or bedside table draw. 3) Remember it takes
Two to Tango.
THE ESSENTIALS
Massage Oils & Massage Book. The major thing to remember here is
to choose wisely. Granted it is all well and good that you feel that you
are a world class masseuse, however, there is nothing wrong with
learning a little technique. Find out which oils your significant other
enjoys and will enhance the mood. So possibly start off with Lavender
or Ylang Ylang to relax the mind and awake the senses and then blend
with a little Sandalwood or Jasmine to stir sensuality.
Candl es / Incense. One of the key factors in the alluring act of
Tantric sex is the involvement of all the senses. Turning down the lights,
lighting some candles and burning some Incense forces the senses to
play. However if you intend on using massage oils, it may not be wise
to have scented candles, as instead of a prolonged love making session
both of you may end up with headaches from the strong aromas. If you
really want to do both, choose candles/incense with the same aroma as
the oils. Sandalwood Incense is usually pretty easy to find.
Music. R. Kelly’s “Bump and Grind” playing in the background is
OK, but let’s try something a little different. Go to the music store and
look for the Instrumental section, (I’m not talking Mozart) try and locate
music which involves sounds which will enhance your love. Whether
it be crashing waves, rolling thunder, rain or even the sounds of the
wild (whatever works for you both). These sounds tend to be both
soothing and tantalizing when blended with smooth instruments.
Lubricant. What can I really say about lubricant…not much. Besides prolonging pleasure, it does speak for itself, just pick a favorite.
Warming or Edible is ideal, just beware that some of us women are a
little sensitive down there so buy a known brand.
MIXING IT UP
Dress Up. Whether it is a nice piece of lingerie, a French Maid or Sexy
Nurse costume or Edible Undies, it doesn’t really matter, because it
will not stay on for very long…have fun with it! If you decide to purchase a sexy cop uniform for your sweetheart, then maybe you could
get your own prisoner costume. It is all about what rocks your own
couple’s love boat.
Games. There are lots to choose from! Love or Sex Dice which direct a couple through a variety of foreplay options and sexual positions, or board games which are designed with an orgasmic objective,
can all be fun with the right energy. Or simply take some time and create your own redeemable gift certificates. Example: “You are entitled to
30 kisses/licks on…” (Fill in the blank)
DVDs. Naughty Naughty! Take your mind out of the gutter, although if that works for you and your honey, then by all means. However you can also place in your Love Kit an Instructional video on
possibly the Kama Sutra or even Dirty Dancing. Just try and think out
of the box and try something new to shake things up.
Treats. Purchase some naughty candies. It could be the simple
candy hearts that have messages written on them, Chocolate Kisses, or
candies molded into mischievous shapes, it does not matter what type
you get, what matters is how you use them. (wink wink)
FOREVER LOVE
Your Love List. This gets things very personal, and I can guarantee that
there is no woman who does not wish their partner told them more
often what they love about them, particularly about their bodies. Put together a list of what you love about your honey and do it in such a way
that it will last and last, cause chances are she may stick it in her handbag to read when she is feeling a bit down. Make your list as sweet,
sensual or raunchy as the both of you would appreciate, as long as it
is from the heart.
Your Personal Love Making Manual. It’s fine if you wish to purchase a detailed directional book on the Kama Sutra, but here is something that the two of you will continue to use not only to enhance sex,
but also to strengthen the bond between you both as a couple.
Acquire a nice journal, not too big, something that she can carry
around with her. On the inside cover write; “(Her Name)’s Love Making Manual” and on the top of the first few pages place headings such
as; “I like when (Your Name) kisses me…” or “I like when (Your Name)
touches me…” and ask her to fill out the pages for you to read.
This exercise enables sharing between the two of you in a more
intimate way than even speaking can offer at times. It also helps the
two of you to explore each other and yourselves individually, to find
new ways to increase the pleasure of your relationship in all aspects,
specifically with communication which is often left on the sidelines in
the bedroom.
So you decide what works best for you and your sweetie, place
them all in a nice package, sit back, relax and see what happens!
www.oceanstylemagazine.com
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SMELL
FABULOUS
FOR
THE
HOLIDAYS
Isabelle Tin-Aung
Guerlain L'Instant de Guerlain Eau de Parfum Spray
The awakening of the senses and emotions. A new form of magic slowly
envelops and transforms me. An unsuspected feeling of femininity
overcomes me. Time can stand still. Anything may happen… L’Instant de
Guerlain”, an unexpected and fresh eternity, which moves, enchants and
surprises. For a few seconds of eternity…bloomingdales.com, $100.
Sake Eau De Parfum
A sensual velvety blend of
langsat fruit, ginger, white
peach, and sandlewood with
subtle floral undertones.
100ml, sephora.com, $75.
Fendi Palazzo Eau
de Parfum
The new "IT" fragrance.
Warm and enveloping with
a subtle balance between
sensuality and refinement.
Fendi Palazzo is a luminous
and opulent fragrance with
a unique signature for
today’s modern woman.
Sophisticated and sensual;
Fendi Palazzo is an extravagant expression of self.
saksfifthavenue.com, $85.
Vivara, the new perfume by Emilio Pucci
Just staring at this gorgeous bottle, one can
imagine standing on a balcony overlooking the
Positano coastline. The perfume mixes almond
Amaretto, floral sambac jasmine and a hint of
orange blossom. Pure sophistication and let’s
face it…the bottle looks amazing on top of a
dresser. neimanmarcus.com, $85.
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REINA
AFRICANA
photography by Dagmara
LEAD PAGE
half printed silk dress by Mara Hoffman
PREVIOUS PAGE
sheer metallic top by Cynthia Steffe, bubble skirt by
Moschino, pant by Lola Faturoti, earrings by Cecilia Ramos
THIS PAGE
silk dress with lace inset by Mara Hoffman, bracelet by
Cecilia Ramos, shoes by Alexis Bittar
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THIS PAGE
crème v-neck dress by Allegra Hicks, sash by
Epperson, bangles and hair pens Ben Amun
NEXT PAGE
chiffon blouse by Sass & Bide, earring by
Keren Peled, beaded necklace by Ben Amun
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black matte jersey gown by
Jean Paul Gautier,
shoes by Cesare Paciotti
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PREVIOUS PAGE
patchwork printed dress by Epperson,
jewelry by Ben Amun
THIS PAGE
lurex halter dress by Jean Paul Gautier Soleil,
neckpiece by Keren Peled, bangles by Ben Amun
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PREVIOUS PAGE
silk dress by Samantha Tracy, jewelry by Ben Amun
THIS PAGE
wool knit dress by Gautier Maille Femme,
earchain by Lint
NEXT PAGE
silk dress by Samantha Tracy, jewelry by Ben Amun
PREVIOUS PAGE
black matt jersey gown
by Jean Paul Gautier,
shoes by Cesare Paciotti
THIS PAGE
cardigan by Carlos Miele,
metal tank byRoberto Cavalli,
pant by Sass & Bide
Photography by Dagmara / dagmaraphotography.com
Fashion Editor: Carlton Jones / carltonjonesNYC.com
Assisted by PhoenixB
Make-up by Harper @ Ford
Hair by Vassilis Kokkinidis @ Art WingNY
Model: Yélena Noah
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Charmaine Harrison of Great Vacations receives her Silver Travel Partner Award from Peter Kellond, Half
Moons Deputy Managing Director.
Jeffery Osborne performing at
the Night of Nostalgia concert.
April Parchment
and Carol Lee
ON SPOT
Gordon Lane
and Jamie Bright
Shirley Dwyer,
Mary Sorom and
Leonie Forbes
Dr. Whyeham McNeil and
Sheila Benjamin McNeil
Ambassador
Awards
Weekend
Jamaicas Prime Minister Bruce Golding
reclines in a chair at Half Moons newly
opened Fern Tree spa. Looking on is
Half Moons Managing Director
Richard Whitfield :left;, Minister of
Water & Housing The Honourable Dr.
Horace Chang and Director General in
the Ministry of Tourism Carole Guntley.
Contractor General Greg
Christie and his wife Janet
< HALF MOON RESORT /
MONTEGO BAY,
JAMAICA =
PricewaterhouseCoopers
Peter Pearson and
his wife Yvonne
Prime Minister Bruce Golding
:center;, with the Honourable Dr.
Horace Chang and Guy Steuart II.
Former Minister of
Tourism Aloun Assamba
with Pauline Finnikin :left;
JAMPROs Lisa Bell
Jeff and Joyce Anderson
:foreground;, Erica
Anderson and her fiance
Phillip Snyder
Fern Trees Spa Elder Stella Gray,
Robin DeLisser, Judith Davis-Baer
and Bryan Langford.
Half Moons honours of our travel
and industry partners who have
contributed to the resort8s success,
with a weekend of festivities and
celebrations.
October 4 - 7, 2007
Half Moons Managing
Director Richard Whitfield
with Jeffery Osborne
Premier Travels Vee Redpath, Half
Moonswww.oceanstylemagazine.com
Managing Director Richard
Whitfield, Robin Weiss and Half
Moon shareholder Bill Weiss
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NEW
YORK
FASHION
WEEK
photography by Robert Manella
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BETSEY JOHNSON
CARMEN MARC VALVO
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CUSTO BARCELONA
DIANE VON FURSTENBERG
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MONIQUE LHUILLIER
PETER SOM
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ROSA CHA
SABYASACHI
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NYC
SHOPPING
IN
illustration by Rorie Atkinson
T
TEMPERLY LONDON
here is a scene from Sex and the City where seductress
Samantha is hobbling through Manhattan, her foot wrapped
in a bandage. Carrie, the show’s protagonist, walks beside her
and frowns, concerned. Finally, Carrie asks, “Honey, if it hurts
so much, why are we going shopping?”
Samantha replies: “I have a broken toe, not a broken
spirit.”
In no other city is the spirit of the shopaholic quite as alive
as it is in New York City! Whether your taste is Samantha’s
Fifth Avenue high-end, or Soho hipster, there is a fabulous
boutique on the Big Apple’s every corner.
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HIGH-END SHOPS
These stores are for the ladies of the Platinum Plastic Club only.
Though you’re guaranteed to break the bank while shopping at these
boutiques, the top-end merchandise makes it all worthwhile!
MADISON AVENUE - 57TH ST TO 72ND ST.
If you’re looking for a row of high-end stores, there is no better place
to look than Madison Avenue. This strip contains fifteen blocks of
celebrity designer shops like Jean-Paul, Giorgio, and Calvin, not to
mention the classic fashion boutiques like Hermès, Chanel, and Prada.
New York Magazine recommends starting at Fratelli Rossetti on 58th
Street for your Italian shoes, but also suggests you leave enough time
for the Polo Store finale located on 72nd Street.
Bergdorf’s, Bendel’s, and Saks, oh my!
Let’s say you’re in a hurry, and don’t have time to breeze up and
down Madison Avenue. Lucky for you, located on Fifth Avenue are a
few high-end department stores that carry all the brand names your
heart desires. In fact you may even find some designer names unseen
on Madison Avenue like Fendi, Ferragamo, and Versace.
Bergdorf’s, 754 Fifth Ave., 212-753-7300, bergdorfgoodman.com
Described by Frommer’s as “a museum of haute couture” Bergdorf’s
customers tend to be ladies who lunch, and businesswomen with oodles of money to spend. However, Bergdorf’s has a little known secret:
the store has fantastic sales. Imagine an entire store filled with designer
clothing with prices slashed to sometimes half their original price!
Tip: take a trip up to the fifth floor where there are designer brands at
very reasonable prices all year long, and not simply during sales
months. Also, check out the jewelry on the first floor, and the shoe departments (both the $300 and up range, and the more reasonable fifthfloor “bargain” department).
Ladies, if you’re looking to spruce up your husband’s wardrobe,
take a trip across the street to Bergdorf Goodman Man, a wonderful
place that can make any man look respectable!
Bendel’s - Henri Bendel, 712 Fifth Ave., 212-247-1100
Bendel’s is a great place to have fun while you shop. The shop is for
mature ladies, who have swollen bank accounts, and make brave fashion statements. The selections are either funky or frilly, but the sales
are always good. Even if you’re a tourist on a restricted budget, check
out the accessories department, and take home a wonderful souvenir.
Tip: Bendel’s makeup department is on the cutting edge of fashion.
Visit it to browse the latest trends in cosmetics. Also, if you find yourself a little quenched or want to pick up a light snack, visit the Bendel‘s
tearoom. Sip on some Chamomile, kick up your feet, and look out the
Lalique windows onto Fifth Avenue.
Saks Fifth Avenue, 611 Fifth Ave at 50th St., 212-753-4000
Truly the pinnacle of top-end department stores, Saks Fifth Avenue is
filled with major American and European designers, including a complete collection of diffusion lines. Check out the eighth-floor, which frequently fluctuates from featuring swimwear to more classic styles to
sexy eveningwear. Call it the eighth-floor surprise!
Insider Tip: In late August, Saks Fifth Avenue unveiled their new
shoe department on the eighth floor. The department is so huge that it
has its own zip code! The department hosts more than 10,000 pairs of
shoes. A VIP room has been installed for private shopping, complete
with spacious seating, refreshments, and an adjacent fitting room.
Fendi, 677 Fifth Ave near 53rd St., 212-759-4646
Speaking of Sex and the City, any avid shopper simply must grace the
floor of Fendi to truly understand the Manhattan shopping experience,
if only to make little Carrie proud! The Karl Lagerfeld-designed brand
is forever churning out “It” bags.
The eternal favorite Fendi bags are Zucca and Zucchino, but no
doubt there will be new “It” bags springing up all over the place the
moment some hot, young Hollywood socialite skips down the street
with a new design on her arm. While Lagerfeld thinks “sophisticated”
when designing for Chanel, he thinks “young” when designing for
Fendi. He wants to appeal to a young, clubbing clientele so brace yourself for plenty of animal prints, low-cut jeans, and funky tops. Think
flashy, flashy, flashy. Even the wristwatches offer plenty of “bling” at
Fendi.
H&M is the Mecca of bargain shoppers. No matter which H&M you
decide to go to, it will be packed, there will be music pumping from the
speakers, and the fitting room lines will be long. However, there is no
other place in Manhattan where you can find such ridiculously low
prices for hip clothing. Especially consider shopping at H&M if you’re
looking for cargo pants or clubbing attire.
Gucci, 10 W. 57th St., gucci.com
There’s an old shopper’s joke, and it goes:
Question: How can you tell when a store is really expensive?
Answer: There isn’t a price tag in sight.
You won’t see a price tag anywhere in Gucci’s fabulous square mileage.
This shopping empire features famous handbag brands and accessories kept under lock and key in clear glass display containers. If
you’re looking for timeless pieces, there is no greater store to shop in
than Gucci. From little black dresses to matching handbags, pumps, and
accessories, this is the one-stop stop for the sophisticated New York City
socialite. Now Gucci does homes, so you can find a plethora of accessories for your bungalow and completely redesign the way you live!
Bloomingdale’s SoHo, 100 Third Ave at 59th St., 212-705-2000
504 Broadway between Spring and Broom Sts., 212-729-5900
Like H&M, Bloomingdale’s is always packed because not only does it
attract the avid New York City shopper, but it also beckons every tourist
within a fifty mile radius like moths to Bloomingdale’s eternal flame.
The reason Bloomingdale’s opened its second SoHo location in the
spring of ‘04 is that they wanted to attract a younger, hipper crowd.
And boy-oh-boy did it work! The Soho’s Bloomingdale carries hip
brands at reasonable prices, and should not be missed by any shopping enthusiast!
Tiffany & Co, 749 5th Ave.
A young Audrey Hepburn walks along a Manhattan sidewalk. Her hair
upswept, large sunglasses shielding her beautiful face, she stops at a
shop window. Her heart flutters, and she leans forward to look at the
beautiful jewelry.
This is the image of Tiffany & Co most individuals hold fondly in
their minds. Internationally renowned with over 100 stores around the
world, Tiffany & Co offers jewelry, timepieces, sterling silverware,
china, crystal, stationery, fragrances and other accessories. Founded in
1837 by Charles Lewis Tiffany, Tiffany & Co still holds pride of place
for that treasured ring for that most special occasion...are you listening
gents?
Here’s a tip: go check out the ground floor jewelry displays. There
you’ll find the most luxurious and expensive diamonds, rubies, and
emeralds in the world. This is the real, high-end jewelry of dreams!
Barneys, 660 Madison Ave. at 61st St., 212-826-8900, barneys.com
You simply can’t do high-end shopping without a visit to Barneys, the
“final word” in edgy designer fashion. The lower floors display the
more sophisticated, expensive items like their famous Prada suits,
while upstairs is home to Juicy tees, Habitual jeans, and Miu Miu
dresses. Pick up a gift for your significant other like a $135 silk tie, or
maybe treat yourself to a fab $500 Prada bag.
Little known fact: Barneys does household appliances. If you’re
looking to spruce up your nest, visit their household items department
for some beautiful additions to any home!
BRANDS FOR LESS
If you have the juice in your wallet well we already told you where to
go to get the latest and greatest! But for those with the Centurion taste
but the Gold means, sometimes we just have to talk the talk. That doesn’t mean you have to dress shabby or forego high fashion...you just
have to look a little harder and shop without the gorgeous European
help. That said, here’s where to go to get the best buys to stretch those
dollars!
Century 21, 22 Cortlandt Street., 212-227-9092, C21stores.com
Century 21 is the home of department store designer leftovers that are
sometimes marked down by 40 percent! Almost any brand name can
be found on the store’s shelves from Helmut Lang to Hanes. From
shoes to clothes, linens to luggage they seem to stock everything and
from the most basic brands to the crème de la crème.
A word of advice: make sure you allocate plenty of shopping time
when gracing the aisles of Century 21. The place is huge and it takes
devotion and patience to find everything your heart desires.
H&M, Located all over NYC. Check out locations at: hm.com
Zara, Located all over NYC. Check out locations at: zara.com
A Spanish label that offers runway looks at moderate prices, Zara
draws old and young fashion gurus to her sales racks. If you’re in need
of silky dresses, colorful knit tops, and suede anything, visit Zara.
Unlike the utter chaos of H&M, Zara tends to be a calmer, more
serene scene in which to shop. The stores are roomy, and the clothing
and accessories are spaced far enough apart so you’re not bumping
into the shoulders of the shopper beside you. Zara makes and sells all
of its own wares, so they consistently have the latest styles available for
the shopper. Since they make their own designs, they’re able to keep
everything in stock, even when they quickly sell out of a certain style.
THE SOHO SHOPPING EXPERIE NCE
At one time, the area known as “Soho” was famous because it was
called home by thousands of artists, who defined “hip” for an entire
generation. Now, Soho attracts shopping enthusiasts as the area has
since turned into an outdoor mall. However, unlike the usual asphalt
and concrete parking lot of a suburban shopping complex, Soho still
has its cobblestone streets and huge loft spaces that make shopping at
least aesthetically enjoyable. While shopping in Soho, check out Chinatown, which is just a few blocks away. You can pick up some knockoff bags and t-shirts, and then get some great, cheap lunch!
Catherine Malandrino, 468 Broome Street 212-925-6765
One of the must-see stores in Soho, Catherine Maladrino’s, features
“designs for real women.” Before she owned her own boutique, Ms.
Malandrino was design director for Diane Von Furstenberg. Customers frequently comment on the overly white, heavily-mirrored interior of the shop, but of course the design reflects Ms. Malandrino’s
disco roots! If you’re looking for a party dress, psychedelic patterns, or
chunky hand-knit sweaters, Catherine Malandrino’s is for you! This
place is paradise for both hipsters and socialite party girls, and this is
reflected in the clientele, which includes the Hilton and Olson sisters.
Kate Spade, 454 Broome St., 212-274-1991
If you are a Soho hipster girl, the Kate Spade bag is as recognizable to
you as bread and water. However, the Kate Spade boutique, located
feet away from Catherine Maladrino’s haven, contains so much more
than the legendary bag. Step inside the store and discover a vast array
of clothing and accessories for any occasion. If you are expecting, dress
throughout your pregnancy in style with the help of Kate Spade’s hip
maternity wear. Check out the rows of shoes, sunglasses, and more!
Insider’s tip: Kate Spade’s is also a great place to pick up supplies
for hobbies and crafts. Now that knitting is hip again, why not pick up
some needles, yarn, and knit yourself a scarf? If you’re not the crafty
type, then just pick up a pre-made scarf instead!
The Apple Store in Soho has served over 5 million customers, but to
anyone familiar with our Apple-obsessed world, that should come as
no surprise. This Soho location has become a hipster gathering place,
especially since the store extended its Genius Bar hours to midnight
two summers ago. The Genius Bar sometimes features bands to attract
a younger clientele, proving yet again that buying Apple isn’t simply a
brand choice, it’s a lifestyle.
Ted Muehling, 27 Howard St., 212-431-3825
It’s fairly easy to walk right past Ted Meuhling without ever realizing
what a jewelry haven you’ve missed. The shop’s entrance is tiny, but inside is a world of beautiful craftsmanship. Meuhling rewards those
keen enough to find the store with his elegant, nature-inspired gold
jewelry such as the branch pin with semiprecious stones, and a couple
other lines from Gabriella Kiss, Lee Hale, and Stephan Allendorf.
Ted Muehling is a major destination for couples shopping for
wedding rings – he carries his own line of wedding rings, and his store
also features wedding rings designed by the genius Gabriella Kiss.
Setting prices range from a very reasonable fee of $100 to more complicated, cluster designs ($500). Some of Muehling’s most intricate designs run upwards of $3,800.
Chanel, 139 Spring St., 212-334-0055
One word describes Chanel: iconic. Coco Chanel never lived in chez
New York City, and yet her midtown store has become a symbol of
New York City luxury since it opened in the mid-1960s.
Women, young and old, still flood the store on a daily basis to remain on the cutting edge of fashion. Only the financially brave splurge
on the most desired piece of booty: a piece of Chanel couture.
Mystique Boutique, 547 Broadway, 212-274-0645
Mystique Boutique is located on the wrong side of the fashion railroad
tracks. Truly, this is a place to visit if you want to have fun while shopping. Here, there are no high-fashion names, no cutting-edge designs.
Smack dab in the middle of Soho glamour, Mystique Boutique sticks
out like a sore thumb, jam-packed with faux furs, faux leather, bright
ethnic prints, and lots of lycra.
Only shop here if you have a serious sense of humor. The sizes
are tiny to small, but the sales floor is extremely spacious. Mystique
Boutique is a great place to shop with your girlfriends. Try on the outfits, giggle like crazy, and maybe even pick up a unique, sexy top for
your night out!
D&G, 434 West Broadway, 212-965-8000
Unlike Dolce & Gabbana’s sophisticated and luxurious clothing, D&G
is a favorite of young Japanese hipsters, rich teens, and party people
all over the city. It is a hipster haven, so brace yourself for large, ironic
prints, tight-fitting cuts, and bright colors. It’s is a great place to take
your boyfriend because he can peruse the men’s section, while you
shop for shoes. Isn’t it great when you find a store for the both of you?
There is only one New York City. For all is sins and for all its joys,
it sits as the heart of Capitalism and the heart of Shopping. You can
walk down the street, jump in your limo, hop on the subway, or flag
down a yellow cab with a tiny bag with a purchase of hundreds of
thousands or your many many bags for hundreds of dollars – it’s all
up to you. Love it or hate it in NYC, within 20 minutes you can leave the
most couture of establishments where only platinum (and up) need be
swiped and be in a bargain basement mecca shoulders to the grind
looking for your gem of a purchase. NYC offers something for every
shopper!
Additional references and NY shopping information available at: frommers.com,
nymag.com, style.popcrunch.com, mustseenewyork.com, travel.yahoo.com, citysearch.com, yahoo.com, macnn.com, newyork.citysearch.com.
Apple Store Soho, 103 Prince St., 212-226-3126
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RETAIL THERAPY
CARIBBEAN
Novia McDonald-Whyte
illustration by Rorie Atkinson
STYLE
ike so many other Caribbean people, I too had fallen victim to
the notion that shopping trips were an integral part of the metropolis - Paris, London, Rome, Frankfurt, New York, Miami,
Los Angeles and even Hong Kong, where those of us deemed
elsewhere as genetically blessed found sizing as much an issue
as a six-foot hunk. And so, after years of blissful ignorance, I
landed one balmy night in Grenada and settled into the luxe
Spice Island Resort Hotel.
L
I had packed enough designs to impress leaving barely enough
space for all things nutmeg. During a leisurely afternoon stroll
around the property we met the stylish Betty Hopkins (wife of Sir
Royston Hopkins) and discovered her quaint on-property, boutique.
La Perla was everywhere as were delicate silk wraps, divine sandals
and gorgeous tees. Lips now pursed I tried hard to convince myself
that I had been in too much of a hurry and had therefore missed the
section on Grenada¹s fabulous retail therapy.
But then again, did such a section even exist? On yet another
getting to know the region mini vacation we happened upon Barbados. We’d actually some time back landed at the Grantley Adams International airport in the Concorde and had been whisked away to
Sandy Lane (naturally that was before its jaw-dropping transformation). Barbados, according to well-documented literature, was the
place to dine and people-watch, nobody ever told us about the stylish design duo of Simon & Peter. That information was slipped ever
so casually during dinner at The Cliff. Their client base is a veritable
roll call of the fabulously rich and famous.
We would soon unearth lots more during a quick hop over to
Mustique and returned armed with the location of some of the best
designers. There was Nefertari for starters located at Paynes Bay, St
James, who has an unconventional and perhaps irreverent approach
to design combined with exceptional talent. Not quite as unpredictable as Betsey Johnson, but equally enticing. Think Seal, Djimon
Hounsou and Life in the Fab Lane’s Kimora Lee Simmons and you’ll
understand the rush we got when we discovered the tenacious wearable art of Renee Luke. For eveningwear it¹s all about Island Spice¹s
Wayne Smith and Avark bags that cause climatic frenzy.
The name Roger Gary was dropped when Lennox Lewis’ then
fiancée Violet Chang stunned us all in red Chantilly lace. Little wonder that he married her. We later discover that Gary is Guyanese by
birth but is based in New York. Guyana, we also glean, is home to the
crisp, cool, white cottons of Cole Facts by designer Michelle Cole.
Mini-vacations down South turned into triumphant mini shopping
trips with ample space left for those wonderful finds. Smug in my
ability to step into fetes, weddings, dinners and yes, even tea parties
knowing that not a single person would turn up in my design, I exuded the confidence of a woman with a secret everyone wants to
know (that and the name of her lover too).
Trinidad soon became however, the absolute preferred shopping destination and stops at Meiling and Peter Elias a must. Shhh!
You never heard it here but the soon-to-be wed diva is flying into
Trinidad to be fitted for her wedding gown. And trust me when I tell
you that this wedding will truly kick-start 2008; this, after turning up
her perfectly stylish nose at several couture ateliers.
It’s with reluctance that I¹m indulging even further but since I’m
now firmly committed to Caribbean integration, here goes.
For the Fashion-Forward male in Barbados check out Praxis for
Men. There are two locations: Coconut Walk, Hastings and Old Spirit
Bond Mall, Bridgetown. Marquis Fashion on Prince William Henry
Street, Bridgetown Broad Street Men¹s in Cave Shepherd Radical
Designs in the Sheraton Centre. The Ladies - Safari in Coconut Walk,
Dingolay and various boutiques at the Sheraton Centre.
There are also the personal shoppers too who go overseas and
provide an exclusive service.
In Trinidad it’s currently all about The Falls of West Mall. The
shops boast designs by Radical, London Clothing Company, a MAC
cosmetics store, Nine West, Guess, Converse, Rituals (T&T’s version
of Starbucks) and oodles more. Trincity Mall is the equivalent in the
East and another hot shopping destination. With its recent expansion and proximity to the airport it is an ideal shopping spot for the
regional shopper and you can also recharge your shopping batteries
while taking in one of the latest blockbusters at the massive Cineplex.
For exquisite couture, naturally the choices are Claudia Pegus,
Heather Jones and Meiling Esau.
JAMAICA
From Round Hill, to the Ritz, to the Half Moon Shopping Centre on the north coast and then Kingston, there’s retail therapy in
abundance. The designers in demand are: Neah Lis, Carlton Brown
and Louise Graham.
The stylists in demand: Kerry at Kerry manwomanhome, Jean
and Pat at Signatures and Sophia at Sophia Max Brown.
THE DISCERNING
LIFESTYLE BOUTIQUE
KERRYMANWOMANHOME
W
hat is most striking when you enter
kerrymanwomanhome is the hospitable atmosphere. From the
warm lighting to the inviting furnishings, it is a very familiar feeling
as though you have come to visit a
friend to look at some new purchases or catch up on some good
old gossip (and I suspect both are
available if not in equal doses).
As you move past the door your eyes are drawn to the desk and
computer, the striking chandelier and just as quickly the doggie bed
that plays host to Sake – the unofficial mascot and second in command
at this chic Kingston retailer. The layout and décor suggest a consultative, friendly and engaging individual retail experience.
The trendy Kingston store offers some of the hottest designs and
‘designers of the moment’ contemporary apparel. The store stays on
top of the latest fashions and moves quickly to get them in stock for
their discerning clientele who know they can always find new, fresh
and original clothing ideas. Owner Kerry Clarke is a permanent fixture
as she meets and greets her clients and gives them that personal input
and touch which has been a signature of her establishment since it
opened.
Kerrymanwomanhome is all the things the name suggests. Offering items for men, women and the home, they are all carefully selected by Kerry and represent the newest and latest fashions and
hottest designers. Kerry stays apace with all the latest and greatest and
as soon as she sees a designer or look pop up that suits her clientele
she is working to secure the line (in most cases exclusively) for her boutique.
Catering to a predominantly 20-45 year old middle and upper
middle class clientele kerrymanwomanhome has certainly found a
sweet spot for its contemporary design wear as its high percentage of
repeat business and satisfied customers attests. On Kerry’s racks you
can expect to find some of the hottest designers of the moment including Custo Barcelona, T-Bags, Tricia Fix, Dallin Chase, CC Skye, Ted
Rossi, Sworn Virgins and Vanitas. Her jewelry line is one of the hottest
on the market – designed by Peruvian sisters Mary, Michelle and
Joanne Stone, Citrine by the Stones, is a definite must wear this season.
As the name suggests kerrymanwomanhome sells clothing for men
and women and items for the home. What is for sale? Kerry shares
"“everything in the store is for sale” including the decorations,fixtures
and fittings! (Based on her clear devotion we assume this does not include herbeloved sidekick Sake!)
Kerry Clarke the one time Kingston socialite didn’t always dream
of a retail operation. In fact her fashion love affair led her to the prestigious Parsons School of Design (Paris campus). With her degree in
FROM HER STORE IN KINGSTON,
KERRY CLARKE FILLS US IN ON
HER PLANS FOR EXPANSION
fashion marketing in hand Kerry returned to Jamaica engaging in
stints as a purchaser for another retail establishment and then working in her family’s agriculture business before deciding to strike out
on her own. With the support and encouragement of her family she
opened kerrymanwomanhome on November 01, 2004 and has not
looked back.
From her 700 square foot “lifestyle boutique” Kerry has transformed over the past 3 years from likable socialite to serious businesswoman with the first in what she expects to be a number of stores
across the Caribbean. Kerry sees a number of boutiques opening
throughout the Caribbean either as wholly owned operations or on a
franchised or partnership basis.
Her goal of opening a new store every three years has come to
pass with the opening of her second store in The Half Moon Shopping
Plaza this December. Kerry’s new store will be very much like
Kingston, which has already brought her so much success but with a
little more emphasis on furnishings.
With her guiding philosophy of “If you can dream and imagine
your goal you can achieve it” Kerry has already started focusing her
thoughts on opening up in St. Barths in a few years. Why St. Barths?
“It’s like France on an island. I would love to have a store there. I speak
fluent French. I love France – it’s like a second home to me.”
Her success has come with a total commitment to her business.
Kerry laughs that friends and associates always want to know why she
is always talking about her business and she explains “It is my passion.
I just love it.” Kerry’s attributes one of her key pillars of success to customer knowledge. “You just have to know your customer and what
they want. You have to keep your expenses down, as low as possible,
and give your customers what they want.”
Kerry relaxes with spa days and beach days – indulging at her favorite Strawberry Hill two to four times per month and getting to the
beach at least twice per month. She enjoys a two year relationship with
a British born architect (who has called Jamaica home since 8).
As Kerry celebrates the milestone of opening up her new store
and readies herself for the hectic holiday season she continues to look
forward to her next challenge continually learning but unafraid as in
her words “True success is achieved by taking risk.”
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YELENA
BLAZING HER OWN TRAIL
Y
elena Noah who graces our cover in this issue is a beautiful woman, as the
photos clearly illustrate. The daughter of French tennis star of the 1980s,
Yannick Noah, and a former Miss Sweden, Cecilia Rhode, Yelena is a woman
making her own mark in the world of high fashion. With her internationally
famous and glamorous pedigree Yelena remains very much grounded with
a humble demeanor and endearing spirit that seems to embrace the simplicity of life when you have good expectations and pure wishes.
The daughter of a tennis star and a beauty queen. Tell us about your
upbringing.
I was born in New York, and moved to Paris at a very young age. My
parents have always lived in the spotlight, but they always made it a
priority for my brother and I to be down to earth, and not let the fame
get to our heads. I think they did a good job at that! My father is famous mostly in France, and I will always respect my mother for taking
my brother and I away from that world, when she brought us to live in
Hell’s Kitchen in NYC when I was 12. I believe that moving to NY enabled me to have my own identity, and not only be considered as the
‘daughter of...’
Did you ever go to tennis tournaments to watch your father?
Quite often actually, until he retired in the 90’s. I was always really
proud to watch him. But sometimes I remember actually wanting him
to lose so that we could just go home and spend time together as a
family. I was young when he was a tennis star so I do not remember exactly how I felt to watch him. Today he is a very successful singer in
France, and I am amazed every time I go to one of his concerts. It gives
me goose bumps to see 10,000 fans watching him on stage, sometimes
with a look of awe in their eyes. I can’t even begin to imagine the feeling he must have when he goes on stage. I was mostly touched when
some of those people would come up to me and tell me how much my
father had inspired them with his positive lyrics.
Did you play tennis growing up? Were you any good?
Haha! THE Question! I did play when I was younger, and still enjoy
playing it once in a while. I definitely don’t have the “eye of the tiger”!
When did you realize your father was famous?
My father won the French Open in 1983, and I was born in 86 so he was
famous before I was born. I always knew he was famous but to me he
was just dad, his fame only seemed natural since it was always that way.
Are you both close?
Yes very. I love and respect him very much, for who he is and what he
stands for. He’s just a great person to talk to. Of course he is my father,
and takes on the father figure when he needs to, but beyond that he is
a great friend and mentor. He gives great advice, and inspires you to
be the best that you can be. I guess he just has that in him, and that is
probably why he was chosen to be the captain of the French team.
What does your mother do?
My mother left the world of fashion for the world of art, where she
found that she could express herself through sculpture. She sculpts
white marble. I truly love what she does, her work is very feminine and
I believe timeless. My mother also decided to return to University to
get a degree in Art Therapy. She often gives free art classes to inner city
kids, as a means for them to express themselves.
Do your parents support you in your modeling?
They do definitely, as it has been a way for me to gain independence
and to travel the world.
Are you close to your parents?
Yes I am. I grew up mostly with my mother, although my father was always around. My mom is like my best friend, I feel as though I can
share anything with her. I am so proud to be the daughter of my parents, as I truly think that they are two beautiful human beings that want
to do good for this world.
Your brother Joakim was recently drafted by the Chicago Bulls. Do you
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ever watch his games?
Of course! I went to see a lot of the games during the last two years
when he played with the Florida Gators, and saw the two finals during
the Final four when they won the championship games two years in a
row. Actually as I am answering this interview, I am getting ready to go
see him play his first game against the New York Knicks at Madison
Square Garden.
Does your brother come to any of your fashion shows?
Unfortunately not as he is so caught up with his basketball team. But
actually I think it is a good thing, if I saw him in the crowd during a
fashion show, I know I wouldn’t be able to hold cracking up. I’d know
he would make fun of me!
Are you close to your father’s other children?
Yes, he has three other children, two girls and one boy. I adore them.
Where did you grow up?
New York and I grew up between Paris and New York my whole life.
Where do you consider home? Paris or New York?
I feel more at home in New York for sure. I love Paris, and I love going
to visit. But there is this certain energy in New York that I cannot find
in Paris. I feel freer to be who I am in New York. Although I grew up
in Paris and New York my whole life, I have many places in the world
I consider home, such as the country side in Sweden, where my
mother is from, and the city of Yaoundé, in Cameroon, where my father
is from.
You have family in Africa. Do you visit often?
My grandfather still lives in Yaoundé, Cameroon, and I try to visit every
year or at least every other year. I mostly go to Cameroon, but I have
travelled quite a bit in different African countries and I love it.
Cameroon is such a beautiful and rich country, so it often breaks my
heart to see the obvious corruption there. But hopefully that will
change one day. To me, there is no place like Africa.
Tell us about your upbringing. What are your fondest memories?
My mother being from Sweden and my father coming from Cameroon
and France, I was exposed to many different cultures growing up.
Guess I could say that I have a very closely knit family.
What do you do for fun?
I love music so I love going to concerts, especially reggae concerts and
sound systems. I collect music. My collection is in majority reggae, but
I also listen to Hip Hop, blues, jazz, Brazilian music and African music.
(I hate to name the last two in such a general way, as there are so many
types of music in those two categories, but the list would be way too
long!) I’ve had the luck to travel a lot in my life, and whenever I do, I
love finding unknown music. I also paint; I guess my mother passed on
that artistic side to me.
Where did you go to school?
I attended high school at UNIS (The United Nations International
School in NYC). This was a really great school in that it was a kind of
microcosm of the city in itself.
Where did you attend college?
I did my first two years of university in Paris, at AUP (the American
University of Paris). I then took a year off, to work as a model, but I am
going back to school in January to finish my last two years. As modeling demands a lot of time, and a lot of that time includes traveling, I will
be doing my classes by correspondence.
What did / are you studying?
I was studying political science/ international affairs. I have always been
interested in what is going on in the world, and even though I am not a
big fan of politics, there is no denying that it is vital in society. It is my
dream to do humanitarian work in the future, and I believe that studying political science and international affairs is important in doing so.
How did you get into modeling and how long have you been doing it?
Modeling has always been around me. My mother was Miss Sweden
in 78 and was propelled into the fashion world, although she gave it up
when I was very young. My step mother was also a top model, so I
have been exposed to modeling throughout my childhood and adolescence. I was often approached by scouts when I was in my early
teens, but I was not at all into fashion and was not interested in modeling. Being very interested in the Rastafarian culture in my early teens,
I remember telling my mother when I was around sixteen that I refused “to prostitute myself to the system!” Yet, when I was around 18 I
moved to Paris and realized that being a model was a great opportunity for me to gain independence as a woman, to travel the world, and
to meet a lot of people. I realized that a lot of young girls are inspired
by fashion, unfortunately more so than politics and current events.
Who do you aspire to emulate in the profession?
Honestly I really do not know.
Do you watch America’s Next Top Model and Project Runway?
No, apart from the news and movies, I do not watch much television.
How much do you travel?
I have always had the privilege to travel, due to my parents professions.
And I have been traveling quite frequently in the past year due to various modeling jobs. In the last year I have traveled in numerous cities in
Europe and in America. The two most inspiring trips that I took for work
were Cuba and Peru, where I was able to visit Machu Pichu.
What do you like most about the profession?
The freedom that it gives me. I am able to travel, which I love to do and
visit amazing places. It is also a profession that, if you use it correctly,
can open numerous doors.
Where do you like to party?
I go clubbing once in a while, but I prefer to listen to live music.
What do you dislike the most?
The superficiality of it all. Most of it is based on your exterior appearance.
Are you involved with anyone right now?
You had to ask?! Not really, I came out of a four year relationship a year
ago, and Im just enjoying my freedom at the moment.
What sort of work do you do (runway, catalog, etc)?
I’ve done a few runway shows, but I mostly do catalogue and magazines.
What’s your favorite Caribbean island?
I couldn’t just pick one. I loved Jamaica; I went twice, but both times
where only for a short period of time. So I don’t think I’ve REALLY
been to Jamaica. I did get a good taste of it though, and I plan on going
back for a longer period of time. I had a great time in Guadeloupe as
well. My boyfriend was from there, so he really showed me around.
I’ve been to many Caribbean islands, but a lot when I was young, so I
only have vague memories of them. One of these memories though
was during carnival in Trinidad. That is also something I want to do
again in the near future.
Who are your heroes in life?
Mahatma Gandhi, Nelson Mandela, Martin Luther King Jr, Malcolm
X, Bob Marley…to name a few Freedom Fighters.
Tell us about some of your goals in modeling.
My biggest goal is to be some kind of role model for young girls. I realize that fashion inspires a lot of women around the world. This inspiration can be positive just as it can often be negative.
What are some of the challenges?
I’m not sure, I guess staying focused on why it is I want to do this, and
remaining down to earth.
What would you like to be doing in 10 years?
Wow! I’m not sure, I guess I would have to say that I would just like to
be using my energy in a positive and constructive way.
What was your most memorable assignment?
Working in Peru and having the chance to visit Machu Pichu, which I
believe is a very powerful place. I was in awe at its beauty and energy.
FABULOUS IN
FENDI
photography by Robert Manella
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Photography by Robert Manella
Styling: JanineRenee & Rick Davy
Hair: Sophie Kaspar/FordArtists NY
Makeup: Jillian Chaitin
All clothes, shoes and sunglasses: Fendi Resort Collection 2008
Models: Kimberlyn Parris / NAM Personal Management;
Ubah / Click Model Management
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MICHELE
ROLLINS
A JAMAICAN
LOVE AFFAIR
SHE HAS OVERSEEN A TRANSFORMATION ON
THE NORTH COAST OF JAMAICA THAT HAS
HERALDED THE INTRODUCTION OF SERIOUS
LUXURY TO THE ISLAND’S TOURISM MARKET;
FROM THE RITZ-CARLTON TO ROSE HALL RESORT
AND THE LUXURY CONDOS OF THE PALMYRA
onventional wisdom doesn’t match Michele Metrinko with
John Rollins. Certainly not in the mid 1970’s when the selfmade business magnate, who’s second wife had just left
him to marry his most vigorous enemy, was teetering on
the cusp of financial ruin. With the newspapers reporting
on his impending collapse his troubles were laid bare for
the young, ambitious, highly intelligent and well-educated
Michele Metrinko.
C
A former Miss USA, she was a graduate from Georgetown University with a law degree and Masters in Taxation which she accomplished while also working at the Securities and Exchange
Commission and moving toward a future which promised its own selfmade success. The question of why she fell in love with this accomplished but at that point troubled businessman, over 30 years her
senior was perplexing to observers. To many the highly qualified,
beautiful, blonde was making a huge mistake.
Michele Metrinko, the daughter of Ukranian immigrants to the
US, met John Rollins in 1976 and they got married in 1977. John’s troubles were not a deterrent to the confident but aware young woman. “I
had no doubt he would rise from his own ashes and fly like the
phoenix.” As the next few years proved difficult Michele rolled up her
sleeves right next to her husband and played a vital role in his emergence from this dark period. As John said, “About the time Michele
and I started going out together everyone thought I was going to bite
the dust. That was what all the rumours were. And then Michele came
along. She got word I was going broke. But she helped me. I sold
everything and tried to hang onto my (Rollins Inc.) stock which
dropped from $42 to $4.”
As John worked to restore his financial empire, a process which
called for his active involvement across different parts of the US,
Michele who had four children between 1978 and 1982 took on the active oversight of the ‘Jamaica project.’ She viewed Jamaica as an “unstructured wild card that could be incredible - or nothing” and relied
upon a number of variables including luck. What was for certain is that
with the slowdown in tourism in the 1970s the business could ill-afford a high-cost manager for a project which was not earning any income and so she began to fly down every Tuesday to oversee the
activities in Jamaica. It was the start of her personal relationship with
the island. “There was a resource to manage but no action and development and things going on. So, I started to do that and I really loved
it. How could you not enjoy being down here? I mean it is a paradise
and it is a paradise when you can afford to live here and it is a hell if you
cannot afford to live here.”
ORIGINS OF THE JAMAICAN LOVE AFFAIR
John Rollins, and by extension the Rollins’ love affair, with the
Caribbean island began in 1960 when he first visited the island. He had
just lost his bid to be Delaware Governor and was taking a little break
ostensibly to rest and recharge. He was intrigued from the very beginning and the following year he bought the Rose Hall estate and
some 5,500 acres of land from Sir Francis Kerr-Janet and Sam Bronfman (of the Seagram’s liquor dynasty).
Rose Hall was the great house on a former sugar plantation
which, Jamaica lore has it, was the site where former owner Annie
Palmer exercised her special love for arsenic to the detriment of a few
husbands well in the 1800s. When John purchased the property it was
in terrible shape having been left to decay by the previous owners who
had left the property convinced that the spirit of Annie Palmer still
haunted the building. The 20+ years of wear and tear had left it little
more than a shell.
What John saw with his Jamaica purchase was a vision of a developed coastline with hotels and golf courses; a wonderful paradise
that also held the potential for creating a tremendous number of jobs
and improving the quality of life for many Jamaicans in and around
the surrounding area in particular. His was a dream that burned so
bright that through all his troubles he fought to keep his dream alive
when the wisdom of all around him suggested he free himself of this
money-pit. It is a tribute to his sheer determination and clarity of vision
that some 47 plus years from when he first made his initial investment
in Jamaica that Rose Hall with its Ritz-Carlton property, luxury condo
development, first class golf courses and international quality spas is
fast becoming an international destination for the wealthy and privileged from all corners of the globe.
Early on John had a vision of a mega resort in Jamaica and a goal
of creating 10,000 jobs – a goal which was surpassed a couple of years
ago. Even in the midst of his darkest financial times, with them selling
stock in the other companies to keep the development alive, Michele
recalls when they had an offer that would have provided a muchneeded cash infusion but would have put a low income project in the
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balls to make extra money off a little nine hole course in Kingston and
decided he wanted to play the game. He has just gone under (a program) of the Ritz. He is in Atlantic City in the summer and Marco Island
in the winter for I think two to four years and he has left his family. He
would be back and forth some, but in order to get the PGA kinds of
accreditation they have offered him that opportunity and it is thrilling.
Will my golf game get better now? I am in deep trouble. I may have
to go to Atlantic City to continue to learn how to play golf. But what a
wonderful opportunity. He is a wonderful family man. He is the perfect example of what Jamaica needs in their fathers to have these families healthy and it is just thrilling. His kids will be able to pick schools
they want to go to because of this.”
Michele embraces the development taking place on the island. “It
pains me when people say, ‘Oh, do you want another big hotel?’ But do
you want another thousand jobs during construction and another
thousand jobs once the hotel opens? I have said it a thousand times. A
hotel is the only thing that uses as many people in construction as it
does when it opens and all of the North Coast has gotten better in service, and food as a result of the Ritz coming because no one wanted
them to clean their clock.”
middle of his planned mega-resort. His response was “What? Put that
in the middle of our project? You have no resort. You cannot do that.
You just keep your powder dry. Hold your horses till it becomes the
right moment.”
ROSE HALL DEVELOPMENT
But Michele long ago developed her own personal love affair with
Jamaica. “(Originally) I have to say I fell in love with John Rollins and
he was in love with Jamaica. So it was very quickly understood that if
you loved him and you want to spend time with him it is going to be
here more than even at home.”
When Michele got involved in Jamaica it was to oversee a 1200
home development project, road building, water and electricity projects and all the supporting facilities. Michele recounts how the first
hotel was developed. Using his Young Presidents contacts John called
on one of his friends to invite him to open a Holiday Inn. The response
was “Well, I am not going to build a hotel. You build the hotel and I will
run it.” And that is how the Holiday Inn got started.” The story is the
same with the introduction of the Intercontinental Hotel where John
and Michele built the hotel and the chain managed and operated the
property.
In the 1990s they approached Bill Johnson to bring a Ritz Carlton
to the island – after a visit he left eager to bring the famous brand to the
market. But Michele shares that the feedback when he returned wasn’t as welcoming. “He would go home and everybody is, “Ah, Jamaican. No.” So, he finally did a questionnaire the second time he came
down. And the questionnaire said, “Would you go to Jamaica?” And 99
precent of the customers said no. “Would you go to the Ritz in Jamaica?” And 98 precent said yes. So he said, “That is all I need. If we
had a Ritz, they will come and that is what we need to do.”
“Because in Ritz’s mind they do this for the Ritz customer and they
want honeydew and cantaloupe but then I say, “Where are the papaya
and the mango? My, God! You are missing best things of Jamaica, the
parrot. Come on!” But they have customers that specifically go there
because they will get every single thing that they can get at home and
to the Ritz’s credit they are moving away from that. I mean you will
find salt fish on the breakfast buffet.”
Development in Jamaica for Michele has meant watching their
investments grow and moving from money-losing to turning the
proverbial corner to now where they are on the cusp of ‘taking off’.
As the Rose Hall development evolves Michele deserves a great deal of
credit for spearheading and bringing to bear this grand vision. From
her you get the sense of confidence from any successful businessperson seeing a vision bearing fruit, but even more interesting (and telling
of who she is) is the great pride in the direct development, growth and
improvement that has taken place in the lives of the workers and residents. It is clearly something with which she identifies and to which
she devotes tremendous time and resources. She speaks with the obvious pride of a caring stakeholder (dare I say ‘mother figure’) observ-
ing the development of the many Jamaicans who are benefitting directly from the various projects. She is involved in their training, has
helped them (including housing them) as they demonstrate a real desire to work toward a better life and expanded skills. Her personal involvement includes finding them jobs, internships and scholarships to
attend universities and school both abroad and within the shores of
Jamaica. She recounts specific, personal, direct stories off the top of
her head with an easy command of all the facts, figures and intricacies
possible only by someone with a vested, pure and genuine interest.
There is not one ounce of that ‘privileged life’ patronizing mindset that
sometimes undermines so many otherwise noble and progressive initiatives. She is completely genuine and committed to these people,
more opportunities and improved lives. It is in understanding the different hats that she wears that you gain an appreciation for the magnitude of her accomplishments. It is clear that despite the challenges
over the many years when the business was not doing well the vision
of helping was never deferred.
While many of the stories speak to a direct and ongoing involvement in the community and these lives through the various projects
and philanthropic activities they have underwritten or otherwise supported some of the tales reflect the less often computed benefits that do
come with development. The direct impacts of job creation in construction and thereafter in managing a resort are clear and well documented. That people can thereafter provide better for themselves and
their families follows as does small and large business alike being better sustained and supported due to increased capacity from those in
the towns and villages close to the development. What is less often
computed or factored is the migratory and career opportunities that
open for these individuals who seize their various opportunities with
open arms realizing that they can now function within a large, international organization and therefore the opportunities for growth and
personal development can now extend way beyond their borders and
as they develop their skills and their base of experience the far corners
of the globe begin to hold the prospect of real opportunity for them,
despite where they may have started in life.
The cross-training and opportunity for professional exposure is
one of the benefits she sees in the continued use of expats. “I do not
think we can live without the expat infusion either. You know the ideal
will be quick. Get them in. Let them train them. Put Jamaicans in
(charge) and (away) we go. But until the Jamaican workers can go
down the street and see what Four Seasons does or go across the road
and see what Oriental Mandarin does, the constant flow of
expats…brings a new set of excitement and learning to these managers
every time they come and I think we ought not to discourage that from
happening. If you can afford to pay them it is like having a teaching
service come to you and they produce so many more people than the
expense of sending one person out to school.”
She relates the story of the Ritz golf pro “who learned to play golf
on an iron rod that he bent over a fire because he was picking up golf
JAMAICA’S FUTURE
With the introduction of the Ritz and the development of the
Palmyra Resort there is no questioning the movement toward upscale
in the tourism product. Acknowledging that level of service is very expensive and not everyone is willing to pay that price, she expands ”it
is just exciting to be able to say we have first class service in Jamaica…what is happening in Jamaica is truly thrilling in the way I
imagine it.”
The Palmyra Resort is “a luxury condo hotel. (People) can rent it
if they feel like it, but they have all the hotel services in that condominium and it is fabulous. When you go down the road Iberostar is
doing a top of the line all inclusive. You know, all inclusive is only a
dirty word if it is an excuse to give people slop for food. But if they are
getting fresh vegetables and good food it is fabulous to have. And that
is exciting. I mean that is 350 rooms opening (this year) followed by another 600 (next year). So, if at 400 rooms we got a thousand people, you
know with a thousand rooms they are going to have probably 2,500 or
3000 people working there.
The expanded development also boasts a world class ESPA spa
at the Palmyra. Michele had high praise for the ones they did at Tuscany and Castello del Nero, both of which she visited. “The spa is going
to be dynamite. “
Ever with a mind on the resultant benefits, she cites the expanded
opportunity that will open up because of these new developments.
“And think about it, kids that are trained and Jamaicans are very good
with their hands, with their spirituality, with their foods, with their natural things. The kids that were trained say for the Ritz, the kids that
have been trained in salons now have five spas as a choice to work.”
These new properties, with their top class services and standards
force the competition to upgrade and in the tourism sector which is
marked by fierce rivalry you can be sure the options that become available will all be upgraded and improved.
So does Michele think the government is doing enough to foster
the growth of tourism? “There is no citizen in any country, anywhere
in the world under any circumstances that once you have put your first
dollar out to invest that in our minds the government moves fast
enough. You need 300 percent cooperation not just 100 percent. I think
the government has done a lot. I will never be satisfied with enough
and it would not matter which government it is. It would not matter
which ministry; and ministries and both parties know I can be a pretty
big pain.”
The Rose Hall Resort (formerly the Wyndham) is owned by Wall
Street’s Blackstone Group – one of the largest and most successful private equity firms through their LXR Goup. With over $30M invested
in room upgrades in the first wing and another coming on track it
highlights the fact that the investment potential for Jamaica is resonating with some of the most shrewd and bottom line driven investors in the world.
“There (are) a tremendous amount of things going on and I know
we are hot on Rose Hall. This is the moment. I feel like that overnight
success movie star who took 30 years to get there… it has been a long
overnight. This is my 31st year in Jamaica. For me, I work hard when
I am here and I run till I drop at night. But when I get up at six in the
morning and I can come up with my coffee, I am already feeling on
holiday because the warm air has wrapped you. I mean it is my love affair with Jamaica. The sun is coming up, the birds are chirping and
you just say, “I just feel good to be here.” And Jamaica’s challenge is to
get people to Jamaica. Once you get them here we have enough fabulous stuff that they would make it their favorite place to be. But, everyone’s challenge should be to sell the island and sell the country and
then let people pick what they want.”
With a firm belief that Jamaica is poised to do a great deal of
tourist business Michele believes the potential would expand even
more if the government were to remove many of the duties and taxes
on tourism. “I think they are penny wise and dollar foolish. I think they
would be so much more competitive. Remove all the duties on tourism
and watch what happens. The lid would come off.” She also supports
the notion that with a revised and reduced tax structure you can encourage greater compliance, “if you lower your tax structure, more
people pay tax. They do not make their life’s mission to avoid it.”
Michele has a number of other varied business interests which
keep her very busy and back and forth between Jamaica and the US.
Amongst them, “Dover Downs, one of our publicly traded companies,
runs its own hotel in Dover where we have slot machines and
NASCAR racing and harness racing. Yes, two tracks because you do
the harness on dirt and the NASCAR on concrete and it is a 500-room
hotel. We have just expanded at 4,000 new slot machines...it is one of
my favorite places to just relax, entertainment for a few hours and
when I win it has really been a great night. When I do not win I have
to say, “Oh, gosh, well at least it went to the bottom line so the shareholders made money on me.”
To potential investors, Michele wants them to know that Jamaica
‘has arrived.’ “They have graduated through their independence to be
adult enough that either government can deal with development in its
own way and some ways are better and easier than others and no one
government is going to be exactly what you need so it really does not
matter. Jamaica can change governments and you can invest here and
I strongly believe that both governments are committed to development. So, a potential investor need not worry.
Having witnessed so much, I mean I started in 1976. This is a great
moment for Jamaica and I am excited. I am going to keep on doing
what we do until someone says, “get out of here.” Because it is so
worthwhile and it is exciting and it has happened. It is happening here
and we just need to join together and improve the educational system.”
CAREER & FAMILY
When her husband passed away 7 years ago, at 83, Michele’s children were all young with one still in high school. They all wanted to
quit and come help, a notion that was quickly dismissed “I did not use
this exact language but I said, “What do you think, I am some kind of
schmuck that I need you guys? I have been doing this for 25 years.” I
said, “Get yourself to school and then get yourself out in places where
people will fire you if your work ethic is not good enough and then
when you come to help me, bring information and knowledge that I
want to pay for. Because if you just want to come to me to educate you
with what I know, come to dinner we will do it for free. I am not going
to pay you to learn what I know. I am happy to pay you to bring new
ideas to the table.”
Michele’s four children were all encouraged by an ideal she
shared with her late husband “success comes from doing work that
makes a person happy.” Her children are still in various stages of determining their own destinies, something their mother wholeheartedly
encourages.
“I am encouraging each of them to spend time here and learn the
business. Not necessarily to come back to be the manager but because
no matter where they are and what they are doing they need to know
it so that they can direct whoever we have but still do what their passion is, whatever that is.”
So what does this well-educated, highly successful businesswoman, mother (four times over) and philanthropist say to today’s
women grappling with the dilemma of balancing family and career? “I
have to say this is not a new dilemma. It has been through the ages. Because there are more opportunities for women, it makes the dilemma
more obvious. But you need to follow your heart. If raising your children and being home is what you love, we have to stop looking at that
as a second class citizen in a second class job. We have nothing more
valuable than our children and how they grow and what values they
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absorb and no matter how good your helpers are they will
absorb the habits of the people with them. And if you are the
mother and you want them to have the habits you want them
to have, you need to spend a lot of time with them. Having
said that, if your passion is business, you need to do the
things that create your passion or you are not a balanced
enough person and a happy enough person to run your
home and your marriage and your kids and your business
well. Because anyone without that zest in their eyes, you just
do not want to follow them. There is something missing and
you cannot sacrifice 20 years of your life to stay home and
raise your children because you think that is what you ought
to do.
You can be very creative about what you do. If you have
talent and you work hard, people will put up with you. When
I used to call my managers from six to seven in the morning
before I woke the kids up for school and then I would start
calling them after ten if I was lucky enough to have them all
in bed by ten o’clock at night because they all had to do
homework. They all had to do music. They all do the sport
after school and everyone may not have that luxury owning
the business. If your manager does not like it, they can quit
and stress becomes a way of life.
It is a fine balance and you should try to do the things
that your heart dictate you have to and if it means juggling
both, juggle both. If it means picking a man who understands
that you are entitled to be a whole person and do the thing
and maybe he has to put a Saturday in with the kids on a regular basis.
You know, I loved my husband John Rollins who had ten
children and he would say, “Both of us should not do the
same job.” And I would say, “No, we each have different jobs
and there is a day for the mother and a day for the father and
you will go to one game of every kid every semester.” He said,
“My, God! That is eight times.” And I said “the minimum.”
So, yes you can do it all carefully. Once you decide to do
it all you have to decide all has to do be a couple of things,
mother, wife, job, and that is it. That does not mean and then
girlfriends and then the spa and then I will run a marathon so
that is two hours a day of working. I mean you have to decide
really what are those passions and then juggle away to make
it happen because your kids will respect that. After a certain
point, they respect that you are trying to do it all and they will
work with you maybe.”
Sitting chatting with this very accomplished woman
who can count amongst her sphere of friends those at the top
echelons of business, politics and society in the United States
and in Jamaica you’re immediately struck by her sense of urgency. There is no sense of slowing down or indulgence in
the life her achievements can now provide. She seems completely unaffected by the power and influence that comes
with great wealth and achievement other than as a tool for
greater change and assistance to others less fortunate. There
is a latent energy and enthusiasm for life and living that is infectious and impressive all at the same time.
Her long list of achievements seemingly of little consequence considering all that she sees can still be done.An
eager eye and burning curiosity seem to drive Michele
Rollins and one can only say that her business partners,
shareholders, family and the many, many people for whom
she has extended a hand of help are all the better for her persistence, sharp business acumen and generous nature.
Her enthusiasm for people is palatable as is her humility. Her love affair with John Rollins seemingly a choice well
made as the match possibly took them both to heights they
may not have scaled independently, a ready source of knowledge and learning from one another.
“John’s death…made me know that you do not have forever, that God does not let good people live forever even
though everybody else is dying. And with that I wish that he
had because John was always the one who did nothing but
contribute on so many levels.”
PHILANTHROPHY
Through a number of philanthropic interests Michele and John have
helped many Jamaicans to pursue tertiary education in the US through the
Horatio Alger Society. Their work with the SOS Village has also been a
tremendous benefit to the island. The village initiative pairs orphan children
to be raised by foster parents in small cottages. John once engaged his good
friend, country legend Johnny Cash to hold a concert to raise funds to benefit the SOS Village.
Their belief in philanthropy continues in earnest with their two primary
conduits being the Horacio Alger Society and the SOS Village. The scholarship
program expanded considerably over the years going from “$15,000, $5,000 to
three kids to the college of their choice” to “this year, we gave $20,000.00 to 105
kids, two from every state in the union and a couple of extras...(we have now)
started collecting to endow a scholarship for the SOS Village.”
The SOS village on Rose Hall is a particular source of pride for Michele
as she is especially proud of a number of the matches.
Omar – Valley Forge 4.0 GPA - He has a 4.0 GPA at Valley Forge Military
Academy who had his picture taken with President Bush at a function Michele
held to thank the local community. He is going on to finish his mechanical engineering degree and if he is there three years he will end up with his master’s.
Nigel – the fearless pilot - He also attends Valley Forge. “He wanted to fly
and they have a flying program at Valley Forge. He is a wonderful kid with a
3.75 GPA and actually he had been knifed in Kingston and lost his kidney. If
these two little ladies had not grabbed him and got him to the hospital he
would have bled to death. So I ask him ‘How many times have you flown?’ He
said, ‘I never have. This trip back that you are sending me on... is going to be
my first time. I am so excited.’ How do you not love the genuineness of this
child who knew he wanted to fly and had never even flown? I said, ‘How do you
know you are not going to be afraid?’ And he said, ‘I am not going to be afraid.’
Nigel wants to do banking and finance and combine it with the flying so
that I am looking for the right bank connection for him to work in summer
where he can intern. “I asked him ‘Who do you know? And he said, ‘Nobody,
Mrs. Who do you know?’ Nigel, you are killing me. And I know I have another
week or two before I have to get it done so he can become an intern. How exciting it is.”
Stephanie - She loves cooking. I had sent this chef to their house four
Saturdays in a row with a hundred dollars of groceries to teach them how to
do some basic cooking and to see who had a real vent for cooking and he said
Stephanie. So I sent Stephanie to a pastry chef at the Ritz for the summer. She
was a 15-year-old girl who had no concept of going to work everyday. And
we hired a driver...I wanted to make sure that they got there safely and they
got home safely. And at the end of the summer, Stephanie was really learning
the stuff and at Christmas Stephanie worked a week for extra money with the
pastry chef and together they baked the rolls, the brownies, the cookies and
the sheet cake for the SOS Village Christmas dinner and she very proudly
stood there and said “I did those.”
Michael - Little Michael went to the golf course and is going to work
there in the summers and he is learning the game while he is working. I mean
at some days it is easy and he is a greeter at the door and some days he has
got his old clothes on and he is doing golf course maintenance but that is how
you learn the business.
Francida - She went up to the nursery and learned how to plant and she
needed privacy and not the hotel atmosphere and she was a star once she
studied landscape. Some of the connections are perfect. I would say what is
the most valuable job you have ever had and it is the one you hate the most because you will never put yourself in those circumstances.
SOS Football Camp - Youngest son, Mark, a Virginia Tech graduate does
the Rose Hall football camp for a week each summer at the SOS Village. All 100
kids in the SOS Village participate daily in the camp which is held on the Rose
Hall ground. Lunch is provided by the Ritz two days and Rose Hall Resort
does lunch two days and there is a big picnic swim on the Saturday after. One
of the benefits of the football camp was “these hundred kids that would rush
up to you when you would bring things to the village had no names for me because they were too many all the time. But they became real people with
names because now every single summer they are playing and you watch
them grow and you remember them from the summer before.”
From this small initiative, the project, with involvement from the Spanish companies in Jamaica via the Spanish foundation, is looking to expand
and Mark is currently pursuing a linkage with Rio Madrid.
Michele indicates that together with their tremendous capital investments in new hotels and resorts, the Spanish Foundation have said they
wanted to make meaningful contributions to Jamaica, specifically in hospitality, in sport, in basic language and in hospitality.
FOOT
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photography by Robert Manella
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LEAD PAGE
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25
MUST DO S
IN…TOBAGO
OCEAN STYLE
Anika Repole
he island of Tobago, sister island to Trinidad,
this dose of paradise, just 26 miles long and
7 miles wide, is alive with a vibrant and rich
culture, just as beautiful as the island itself.
On your next visit to the Caribbean, make
sure to stop in Tobago for a taste of fantasy
made reality. To make things easy Ocean
Style has put together a list of Must Sees and
Dos which range from historical sites, kid
friendly hotels, to wild night life. The tour
begins here…
HOTEL S & R ESORTS
1) Stonehaven Villas Black Rock, Stonehaven Bay, stonehavenvillas.com;
868-639-0361. These 14 Colonial-style villas, situated on 10 acres of dramatic hillside offer you a rare opportunity to live like a King or Queen
for a week, each with their tasteful décor and beautiful gardens.
2) Kariwak Vi llage Holistic Haven and Hotel, Crown Point, Scarborough, kariwak.com; 868-639-8442. The Kariwak is an intimate 24 room
Tobago hotel with unmistakeable Caribbean ambience. It features holistic holiday activities - yoga massage TaiChi, an award-winning tropical garden with abundant plants and bird life in addition to the garden
jacuzzi, pool, and live weekend entertainment.
3) Half Moon Blue Hotel, Bacolet Bay, halfmoonblue.com; 868-639 3551.
Enjoy the spacious rooms, elegant décor and great service at this small
boutique hotel where one customer boasts, “The staff were all very
pleasant and helpful without being overwhelming, they've definitely
got the right mix between customer service and easy going laid-back
attitude.”
11) Culloden’s Witch’s Grave. Ok this one is a little more spooky. The
grave of Gang Gang Sarah, has been rooted in Tobago’s culture for
quite some time, as it was believed that she was a witch who flew to Tobago from Africa and was unable to return, because she ate too much
salt. Hmm… either way this lady is still said to haunt the site for anyone brave enough to visit.
12) Fort King George. One of Tobago’s best preserved historical sites,
is still gorgeous in its original old school architecture
13) Flagstaff Hill. Popular lovers location because of the breathtaking
view, was actually an American lookout point during World War II.
14) Richmond Great House. Fabulous original architecture dated back
to 1766 located on an old sugar plantation.
15) Louise Kimme Museum, Mt. Irvine. A museum where many of the
exhibits are made from wood-carvings.
16) Tobago Museum. If you still want a taste of the rich Toboggan culture (and I guarantee there is so much more) visit the Tobago Museum
to have your fill and appreciate how art truly imitates life.
ENTERTAI NME NT, FE STI VI TI ES AND NI GHTLI FE
4) Goat & Crab Racing in Buccoo Village. On Easter Tuesday every year,
this event is an entertaining spectacle, guaranteeing a laugh or two, at
the skill of the trained goats and crabs and their diligent trainers.
5) Angostura Tobago Sail Week, sailweek.com. Held in May each year
is a beauty to witness, for any sailing buff!
6) Bucco Folk Theatre, Buccoo. For a taste of Tobago’s rich culture of
dance and calypso. Shows held every Thursday at 9pm.
7) Sunday School, Buccoo. Nothing religious about it at all! Sunday
School is in fact a loud vibrant street party, and sure fun.
8) Royalton Casino, 868-631-8500. Why not have fun and make a little
money in the process? Great for Black Jack and Roulette fans.
9) Golden Star, Crown Point, 868-639-0873. Great pub vibe! Very popular with the locals on weekends. Friday nights are Golden Star Red
Lobster Night (pick from the live lobster display, make your choice,
and we’ll prepare it). Dinner 7pm till, after-party lime till 4am.
RE LAXATI ON AND TOURS
17) English Man’s Bay. Crystal clear waters, surrounded by lush tropical forest, is the ideal site for snorkeling or a picnic, and chances are
not many people will be around.
18) Pigeon Point Beach. Picture the perfect post card type beach; thatch
roofed huts, blue water lapping the beach shaded by coconut
trees…that’s Pigeon Point. It’s a great place for the kids also, lots to do!
19) Argyle Waterfalls. Nesteled in the dazzling terrain, take a tour and
dip in the refreshing falls.
20) Little Tobago Island. If you want to get away… this is the place to
be. It is quiet and serene and a haven for bird watchers.
21) Caledonia Wildlife Bird Sanctuary. Take a tour and view stunning
birds indigenous to the Caribbean.
22) Scarbourough Botantical Gardens. Is a treasure right in the heart
of town, a breath taking sight to behold.
23) Tobago Rain Forest. This award-winning rain forest is the oldest
protected rainforest in the Western Hemispher. A trek through the forest is a must do experience for one and all.
24) Deep Sea Fishing Tours. For all the fishing gurus, schedule a tour
with respected fishermen for great fishing and fun.
25) Buccoo Reef and Nylon Pool. One of the Caribbean’s most accessible and beautiful reefs for scuba diving and tours. A must see!
HISTORI CAL S ITES AND CULTURE
10) Mystery Tombstone of Betty Stivens. Sounds spooky but this site
has baffled visitors for years. It reads: “She was a mother without
knowing it and a wife without letting her husband know it, except by
her kind indulgence to him” huh?!
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JOHNNY
BLOOMFIELD:
IN PURSUIT OF THE PGAWITH HIS RICH AND VARIED CARIBBEAN
Douglas Gordon
A
HERITAGE, THIS BRIGHT AND TALENTED
SPORTSMAN IS AIMING TO TAKE HIS “A”
GAME AND JOIN THE LIKES OF TIGER
WOODS, PHIL MICKLESON AND
STEPHEN AMES TO STAKE HIS CLAIM ON
GOLF’S GRAND STAGE
fter weeks of effort to coordinate with his extensive
travel schedule, I finally catch up with John Bloomfied
in Kingston, Jamaica on a scorching summer day. Sitting
down to chat in the hip coffee spot, Cannonball Café, on
the outskirts of New Kingston, we sip some of the Blue
Mountain’s finest (if not strongest) and talk about his exploits as a professional golfer and his broad Caribbean
upbringing. The tall, six foot plus, slender golfer sports
jeans and an oxford looking slightly preppy (as I would
expect a golfer) save his slightly ruffled dirty blond hair.
John Alexander Bloomfield can boast of a truly “Caribbean” heritage
in a manner even the most fervent regionalist may envy.
When “Johnny” as he is better known was born on June 4, 1979 it was
to Jamaican parents in the southern most Caribbean island of Trinidad and
Tobago. Johnny spent his first 7 years in the island revered for its Carnival before moving to the home of many a cricketing legend, Barbados. He
lived there until he was 14 before relocating to picturesque St. Kitts.
With a distant family relation to reggae legend Bob Marley (2nd
cousin once removed to Bob and 3rd cousin to Damien and his various siblings) Johnny’s Jamaican lineage runs deep. Perhaps this explains his great
affection for reggae not soca. His father, Andrew, is a highly respected civil
engineer throughout the Caribbean and his sport genes he got from his
mother, Susan, a avid golfer, who represented Jamaica both as a tennis and
hockey player. His sister, Julie Murphy will be known to many of our readers in Barbados where she runs her trendy boutique SOMA in the Quayside center. His brother Danny a Rhodes scholar and now an oncologist,
who lives in London played tennis for both Oxford and Cambridge.
Before his passion for golf was ignited (he started playing golf at 9 in
Barbados) Johnny was a competitive tennis player.
At 16 after living in St. Kitts for two years Bloomfield headed off to
Rollins College in Orlando, FL. After a year he left to attend the University
of South Carolina to study Mechanical Engineering and to play under
coach Puggy Blackmon. Bloomfield’s intelligence and golfing potential
were quickly recognized with Blackmon describing him “He’s very bright
and very talented.” Johnny went on to give credence to his then coach’s
words with a -19 par performance in 1999 at the Red River Classic in the
process setting a school and tournament record.
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Johnny turned pro in 2001 and since then has played on the
Golden Bear Tour, New England Pro Tour, the Tarheel Tour (North &
South Carolina), the Tour De La Americas and the Challenge Tour in
Europe, the Gateway Tour and one Nationwide Tour event.
His burning goal remains getting (and staying on) the PGA Tour.
The winner of the Jamaica Open in 2006, Johnny decided to take
2007 off to focus on building his physical strength and conditioning.
He continues to work with Brian Mogg (who worked under David Ledbetter) and has trained Johnny since 2002. Mogg, who trains about six
current PGA professionals, is credited with having helped Johnny to
rebuild his game over the past five years. Johnny now feels that taking 2007 to develop his physical strength will prepare him for his next
assault on the professional golf circuit leading toward the PGA Tour.
Acknowledging that 90 percent of golfers lose money each year,
Johnny is undeterred from this seemingly daunting task. With an estimated operating budget of $80,000 to cover travel, accommodation,
car rentals, tournament entry fees, coaching and living expenses added
to the expectation that you will be on the road for 30 weeks of the year
the profession requires tremendous sacrifice and even greater resources.
His dashing good looks aside, the unattached bachelor (yes I
know I had to address that ladies) notes that his profession requires
immense sacrifice not to mention the constant travel and the demands
of training.
He credits Titelist (who he has used since 1999), Peter Melhado
who led a syndication that backed him for three (3) years that recently
expired, a number of top class golf facilities including the prestigious
Daniel Island in South Carolina, his family and various benefactors
who have assisted in various ways including Wayne Huizenga, Jr and
Kenny Benjamin for their assistance over the years.
Johnny manages all of his own bookings, travel and events and
has driven all over the US from Florida to Maine to participate in golf
tournaments. Though the reality may be a far cry from the life of idle
leisure so many assume to be that of a professional golfer, the tall, slender bachelor wears the challenges well with an easy smile and a firm
conviction in his future. All he needs now is the backing. As he says,
“Talent without opportunity means nothing. If you don’t have the backing it’s wasted talent.”
The challenge of financing is substantial. While currently pursuing sponsors for 2008 Johnny continues to train hard so that when he
hits the circuit in 2008 he is fully prepared. He sees his biggest obstacle to making the PGA Tour as achieving his strength and fitness goals.
He presently works with Randy Brower in Gainesville, FL (who trained
Greg Norman and over 25 Olympic Gold Medalists) to get his body
into shape.
Johnny makes the case that Corporate Jamaica and the wider
Caribbean can derive substantial benefits from golf. Professional
golfers like himself, aspiring to the top echelons of the sport are forced
to go abroad to gain access to the facilities, experience and talent as
some of the facilities in Jamaica are not up to the best competitive standards which are necessary to prepare for what has been identified as
one of the most competitive of professional sports. With the investment to get the right instructors and facilities in place and getting
youngsters involved from an early age, Johnny believes corporate Jamaica would realize attractive returns from golf as the talent is here.
Johnny may just be on to something with Trinidad’s Stephen
Ames, who he acknowledges for his tremendous work ethic and effort, living testament to the potential of Caribbean talent. We will certainly stay tuned for his 2008 season.
-Editor’s Note - Jamaica boasts a curiously rich golf heritage with the oldest golf
course in the Western Hemisphere. The Manchester Country Club in Mandeville
was opened over a 100 years ago and is an 18 hole course that plays into 9 greens
over 55 acres.
YEARS
or over 50 years Half Moon has stood as a beacon of luxury
and sophistication in Jamaica’s tourism landscape, playing
host to some of the world’s luminaries including Queen
Elizabeth II, Prince Charles, the Royal Family of Monaco
and many others.
F
With a solid commitment to exceeding guests’ expectations, Half
Moon continues to lead the way in service excellence, amenities and activities. Over the years, there has been significant investment to the resort that has resulted in its growth from a 17 cottage and 32-room hotel
to an expansive resort with 398 rooms, suites, cottages and villas set on
400 acres, ribboned by two miles of private beach.
Chief among its most recent developments is the soon-to-be unveiled Fern Tree, the Spa at Half Moon and adjacent spa suites. The expansive spa sanctuary is over 68,000 square feet of indoor/outdoor space
dedicated to wellness and relaxation. Drawing from Jamaica’s lush landscape and centuries-old healing traditions as inspiration, Fern Tree
melds modern spa techniques with Jamaica’s ancient healing remedies
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OCEAN STYLE
of native herbs, fruits and botanicals. The spa introduces clients to a Spa
Elder versed in the art of holistic healing to guide clients through the
four phases of wellness: addressing the individual, the body, the mind
and the spirit.
The extensive development also includes the creation of six signature beachfront spa suites adjacent to the spa. The suites provide all the
comforts found in a traditional hotel suite along with added features
and services of a personal spa. Each spa suite offers an expansive bedroom with sitting area, an oversized bathroom with chroma therapy
bathtub and steam shower, the exclusive therapedic Half Moon Memories bed, private patio overlooking the Caribbean Sea and a personal
studio that can be used for private en-suite treatments, personal fitness
or yoga.
Guests of the luxury resort can also enjoy Half Moon’s complement
of spacious accommodations from suites to expansive private villas.
Rooms offer an elegant informality with a blend of native island style
with Queen Anne and Chippendale reproductions artfully crafted by
local artisans working on-site. The 33 four-, five-, six- and seven-bedroom Royal Villas are the ultimate marriage of family-style living in a
classic resort setting. A personal staff of a cook, butler and housekeeper
are assigned to each villa to take care of every guest need; whether laundry, breakfast made-to-order or a fun barbecue on your own private
pool deck.
In addition to a variety of unique accommodations, Half Moon is
renowned for a vast selection of exciting activities. A natural dolphin lagoon is home to Half Moon’s resident bottlenose dolphins offering
guests a once-in-a-lifetime experience of swimming with dolphins in
the Caribbean Sea. An equestrian centre, home to 28 beautiful mounts,
offers a variety of equine activities including horseback riding lessons,
show jumping, dressage and a thrilling swim on horseback in the sea.
Guests can also enjoy championship golf at the recently renovated 18hole Half Moon Golf Course or play a game of tennis on any of the resort’s 13 tennis courts. For little ones, the colourful Anancy Children’s
Village is a welcome retreat where they will be introduced to one of Jamaica’s popular folklore characters and his cast of friends. Water sports
enthusiasts will enjoy the full complement of water sports available at
the resort including the Supplied Air Snorkeling for Youth more commonly known as “Sasy” dive programme.
Dining is an occasion at Half Moon with a team of local and international chefs creating inventive cuisine to tempt any appetite. The Seagrape Terrace positioned along the Sunset Beach serves breakfast,
lunch and dinner under the shade of buttonwood and seagrape trees. Il
Giardino, the resort’s Italian restaurant, is open for dinner and invites
guests to savour daily specials from the regions of Italy. Overlooking
the resort’s golf course is the Sugar Mill, which derives its name from
the centuries-old sugar mill that stands majestically at the restaurant’s
entrance. Here the menu reflects the restaurant’s colonial past with
modern touches and island flavours. La Baguette is more casual and offers guests a beachside setting to refuel after a day in the sun. At the
Half Moon Shopping Village guests are transported to another world
with the exotic flavours of authentic Indian and Thai cuisine at the
Akbar/Thai Garden restaurant. Additionally, the more casual Royal
Stocks pays homage to Great Britain with its English-style pub décor
and traditional pub grub.
With the variety of accommodations, activities and restaurants, it’s
only natural that Half Moon offer extensive space for groups to meet.
And they do that with over 26,000 square feet of flexible indoor meeting
space along with expansive outdoor venues. The resort’s ballroom
measures 12,000 square feet, while the 5,000 square feet conference
room is designed for presentation and shows. State-of-the art audio/visual equipment and the latest telecommunications technology allow
clients to host conferences, product launches and conventions.
Rounding out Half Moon’s roster of amenities and facilities is the
expansive shopping village, home to a variety of duty-free jewelry, specialty clothing and souvenir shops as well as a craft bazaar. The village
also houses a 24-hour medical facility, pharmacy, bank, post office, commissary and beauty salon.
But more than the accommodations, activities and amenities offered at this 400-acre estate are the genuine care and warm hospitality
extended by the more than 800 members of staff that call Half Moon
home. It is their commitment to exceeding guests’ expectations that
have earned the fabled resort countless awards and recognitions and
keep guests coming back year after year.
EDIBLE VIBES
OUR RESIDENT FOOD EXPERT, MICHELLE JONES,
OFFERS SOME DELIGHTFUL OFFERINGS
A
fter a year of tantalizing and teaching Jamaicans how to up the ante with their
cooking, Vibes Cuisine TV host Michelle Jones unveiled a fantastic new kitchen
custom created by Jamaica’s best outfitters—Appliance Traders and Home International Ltd.
The gorgeous and generous host is sharing the wealth with her Jamaican
viewers, who can win weekly prizes (deluxe small appliances, restaurant dinners for two, and resort weekends), not to mention the grand prize of a sparkling
new kitchen, complete with custom cabinets, corian counters and high end
stainless steel appliances. While Michelle puts her new kitchen to work she
made time as always, to share another delicious dish with Ocean Style.
Michelle is in her element Wednesday s and Sundays at 7:50p.m. and Mondays and Thursdays at 9:00a.m. on Jamaica’s CVM TV.
Moroccan Style Fish Served with Couscous and Roasted Peppers
4 Tilapia Fillets
1 jar Roasted Peppers drained
2 cups couscous, cooked according to package directions (I like to add raisins and dried cranberries to it for flavour!)
Salt and pepper to taste
½ teaspoon nutmeg
½ teaspoon ginger
½ teaspoon ground cloves
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground cumin
2 tablespoons olive oil
Method:
1. Cut peppers into long strips.
2. Season fish well with salt, pepper, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and cinnamon.
3. Heat oil in a shallow pan until hot but not smoking, pan fry the fish for 4 minutes oer side or until fish flakes easily.
4. Mound couscous in a serving plate, place fish on top, then place peppers over the fish.
5. Serve and Enjoy!
photo by Wendy Anne Chinn
and Alty Benjamin Jr.
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15
MUST DO S
IN CUBA
uba - that 210km x 32km Caribbean island of 11 million is
rich with many things. The economic conditions of many
of the population are most depressing but what cannot be
contained is their incredible spirit and joie de vivre. Havana
is rich in its architecture, culture and attractions. From their
world-class cigars and rum to some of the most impressive
architecture in the Caribbean, here we give you a down and
dirty guide to 15 Must Do’s in the Cuba capital of Havana
(pop. 2 million). (In random order)
C
1. Take a drive in an old American Car – these relics from the 1940s,
1950s and 1960s are all over the place. Some are in better condition
than others but it’s always an adventure!
2. Real Fabrica de Tabacos Partagas – this cigar factory tour is a definite must. Unfortunately no samples are given out afterward but they
have a very well-stocked shop available for ready purchase at the end.
Marvel at the process and rich aromas that abound throughout this 20
minute excursion in one of Cuba’s oldest cigar factories (1845).
3. La Guarida – this is a most enchanting paladar. The site of the movie
Fresa y Chocolate it is well known and your hotel concierge will be
able to direct you easily. The fare is extremely good and the wine list is
pretty good by Havana’s standards. While the atmosphere may not be
grand (there is more than a little trepidation involved in getting from
the road to the restaurant doors) the place is extremely warm though
the staff can be a tad bit stuffy.
4. Travel in a Bici-Taxi. Often a lot faster than a taxi depending on your
route and the traffic these offer an open air (and depen vding on the vehicles around smoke-filled) journey through Havana. Rates can vary so
agree upfront.
5. La Gitana – the palador of champions! The best food for the money
in Havana. The folks here are welcoming and hospitable. No airs in
this spot. Enjoy a clean, if a bit bland atmosphere, tasty food and very
friendly staff.
6. Plaza de la Catedral the square is a MUST VISIT. Enjoy the animated
ambience in the evenings with live music in this wide open plaza.
7. Mojitos at Hotel Nacional – regarded as THE best hotel in Havana.
Whatever your accommodation budget (Nacional is not cheap) you
need to enjoy an afternoon or evening of cocktails at the stately Hotel
Nacional - said to mix the best Mojito in Havana. Whether or not it is
the best (there are many claims) you certainly would find a hard time
finding a more majestic setting.
8. Cabaret Tropicana – not inexpensive but definitely entertaining. Take
in the glamour of an era passed when Josephine Baker, Carmen Miranda and others entertained the wealthy with their sensational Latin
dance numbers in their incredible headpieces. This show which has
inspired so many that have toured around the world is something you
really should enjoy.
9. La Bodeguita del Medio is the bar in Old Havana and the former
hang-out of Ernest Hemingway. Many claim this is THE best Mojito in
Havana. Really cool atmosphere and hey if it was good enough for
Ernest Hemingway…(Note: After four Mojitos they all taste the same!)
10. Capitolo Nacional. Cuba’s architectural pièce de résistance is a sight
to behold. Started in 1929 the building took US$17M to build and engaged 5,000 workers for over three years. It was the seat of the Cuban
Congress until 1959 and now houses the Cuban Academy of Sciences
and the National Library of Science and Technology. Houses the 3rd
largest indoor bronze statue in the world!
11. Monumento a José Martí
This is a fascinating museum and memorial dedicated to the life and
work of a renowned revolutionary, writer and poet. The collection consists of many of Martí's personal belongings, along with documents
pertaining to the island's revolution. There is a recommendable view
from the top floor, which also happens to be the highest point in the
city. In fact, it is in front of this very plaza that Fidel Castro gives his
most important annual speeches – the Plaza of the Revolution.
12. Museo del Ron, Fundación Havana Club | Rum Museum, Havana
Club Foundation
Enjoy the bilingual tour which gives a comprehensive run down on
rum making techniques – from cane cutting to sampling in the museum’s tasting room.
13. Museo de la Revolución | Museum of the Revolution
Housed in what was once the presidential palace, this is quite a considerable collection of objects of major historical relevance, covering
the period from the liberation struggle from Spain to the Cuban Revolution. Exhibits include documents, photographs, videos and two impressive life-size sculptures of Ernesto ‘Che’ Guevara and Camilo
Cienfuegos.
14. Malecón (Great seawall surrounding Havana)
This enchanting 8km seawall along Havana is a wonderful spot to
stroll, relax or at night romance with that special one. (Make sure you
tell the hustlers firmly you’re just hanging out and they will leave you
alone). In the rougher months you can see the ocean spray on to the
road – drenching cars and strollers alike! The sea wall of the Malecón
offers a great place within the Cuban capital to go for a walk and fill
your lungs with fresh, salty sea air.
15. Finca La Vigía (Hemingway's House)
This is a obligatory trip for all those who wish to follow in the footsteps
of the great Ernest Hemingway, when he visited Cuba. Visit the house
where Hemingway lived, a building that has now been converted into
a museum.
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Vogue Editor-at-Large
Andre Leon Talley
Ocean Style Beauty
Editor Isabelle Tin-Aung
ON SPOT
Donatella Versace and
Publisher James Miller
Freddie Leiba
NY Fashion Week
Fashionistas
on Display
: BRYANT PARK,
NEW YORK, NEW YORK ;
Socialite Ester Nash
An assortment of images with a
behind the scenes view of a who8s who
of the fashion world during this year8s
installment of NY Fashion Week
at Bryant Park.
September 2007
photography by Robert Manella & dkg
Nigel Barker
Wendy Wiltz
InStyles Hal Rubenstein
and James Miller
Garry & Jason
Clemmons
LET THE JUICE FLOW!
THE JUICIEST TIDBITS AND HOTTEST CELEBS CHAT WITH OCEAN STYLE EDITOR-AT-LARGE &
MTV BASE HEAD JASMINE DOTIWALA
mas day will be upon me before I know it and I still haven’t
completed my last bits and bobs shopping wise. As I spend
every Xmas with my New York cousin Mariah I need to get
my shopping game completed much earlier in the year. So
anything that gets in the way of my weekends in the month
of November is likely to get me rattled. Big time! Read on...
So my dislike of 50 Cent as a lyricist is well known. As a person he
is a nice enough guy to chat to. Whilst I like a few of his tracks-he
writes a catchy hook, I just hate the ongoing 24-7 gun paraphernalia in
most of his lyrics and negative energy. The thing I do respect about
him is that anytime you interview him you never have your questions
censored by a record company representative first and they never tell
you to steer away from any subject - cos 50 is at least able to intelligently answer his press competently.
Last Saturday I was asked to interview 50 just before his show at
East London's 02 Arena. It was a weekend! I did everything I could to
get out of it. I asked my colleagues who all suddenly happened to be
out of town, washing their hair, buying winter socks etc. So I dragged
myself and full crew (under duress) to go talk to 50 on my weekend. We
knew he’d be late - he always is. We knew we wouldn’t speak to him
for 45 minutes as promised-it was 20, we knew he’d be a good chat but
ultimately will he rise to the top again? From a media perspective
working with 50, Eminem or Beyonce is more trouble than it’s worth.
Everyone in the media groans and feigns illness as soon as these
projects hit our schedules cos whilst the artists themselves are well
mannered and nice to meet, the drama that comes with getting to that
point is never worth it. You get to the designated interview location on
time knowing they’ll be really late, they insist you don’t leave the box
room you're in for the 3 hours that you wait like we have nothing better to do with our time - and no one ever apologises. You’re lucky if
they offer you water whilst you wait. The tension amongst the scared
record label reps (who act as if they're overseeing an interview with the
President) has to be seen to be believed. Oh how we music journo’s
laugh at dinners when we mimic the “most shook record label rep of
the month.” Think that’s bad? After this state of affairs they insist often
on looking at your questions and crossing out any that might be “inappropriate” then they insist on viewing the footage before it makes it to air even though we want to air it
tomorrow and they are off on vacation for a week.
Oh how we laugh. Hence when these names
come up - we are often “washing our hair.”
However once 50 sat down with us, as ever
his 20 minute stint was worth waiting for. Speaking in a much calmer, less swagtastic voice than
before when I’ve had the pleasure of his company
he wanted to wear a new blinging gold and black
t-shirt just for “My MTV Interview.” After settling
in he bigged up his current tour “The show's incredible but I don’t want the next city to
think it's the same show so I change it all
the time. I’ve got a lot of songs that
I can bring to the stage.” 50
dropped in the fact that he’s
toured in more places than
his homeboy Eminem
“I’ve toured more than
him because he has his
X
daughter Hailey and he likes to physically be at the house. A lot of people don't know the reason behind his decision not to tour but on the
Anger Management tour Hailey would put boxes in front of Eminem’s
front door to stop him leaving. So he would fly back on a private plane
after every show so he could drive her to school in the morning and
then he's be back on the plane to the next show so for him the tour
was exhausting. I don’t get to see my son as much as I would like but
he's not responding in the same way as Hailey - he’s more independent. He stays with his Ma and she’s away from me anyway.”
I had to see if the rumours about 50 and Kanye doing a duet on
50's next album (Before I Self Destruct) were true - 50 said, “Hell no there’s no duet with me and Kanye. There was a track that Kanye produced but it’s not made the album. It keeps getting pushed further and
further away from making the album as I create new material. As I continue to record and I’ll produce something that hands down will be the
best record of this time period.” Whilst he was clearing up rumours 50
denied he was dating Ciara, hasn’t bought her a Lamborghini and it’s
not her naked silhouette in his album booklet. He revealed his next
album would be darker and more gritty than the current - when I asked
if that was even possible due to the percentage of guns and cussing in
‘Curtis’, 50 vented that he always has frustration and anger.
”We’re in the age of Ringtone rappers. These guys have one great
song and no-one bothers to buy the album.” He also hinted at a possible label change as ”this is my last album for Interscope as the fifth will
be a greatest hits [record], so after that I'm pretty much a free agent
and no one’s controlling my art form.”
When I told 50 hip hoppers were thankful to him and Kanye for
bringing some excitement back into the game earlier this year he
ranted “No I did it. I make those moments. Both albums release on the
same day - I created that. I’m the bigger artist and for me to accept the
opportunity, create the challenge - that was me, when 50 Cent and
Kanye West sell more records than they would have sold without the
competition everyone wins!”
50 did confess he was really frustrated by Kanye's dignified silence throughout the completion though. “I had to say something!
Kanye wasn’t saying anything - that’s why he was the underdog; I didn’t feel I had any beef with Kanye. It was just something to do. It’s not
the same passion when I was going after Ja or the Game. In the Game
space, I owned the guy. He was signed to my label. With me and Kanye
- I never lose. Worldwide I won it.”
Wowser! I thought I was competitive! 50 then seethed about MTV
and our “hypocrisy.” He stated that we play records by bands called
The Killers and Britney is allowed to say “its Britney bitch” but he has
to change the title of his next single ‘I Still Kill’ to ‘I Still Will’ so to prove
a point he might start his next single saying ‘It’s Britney Bitch.’ I interrogated him about his constant obsession with guns as the gig that
night just had guns audio and visually blitzing our senses. 50 tried to
explain “You think guns are bad - guns aren't bad some people are bad
with guns in their possession - if you’re dealing with minors that are
listening to it - they’re not supposed to that’s what the parental advisory stickers are for. And they're not responsible for their actions because their legal guardians are until they’re 21. The responsibility
would be of the parent or the legal guardian. The majority of the time
the incidents are happening with somebody above that age group.
They’re conscious, they know the difference between entertainment
and reality.”
On his way out 50 wished MTV BASE a Merry Xmas and moaned
that he always ended up playing Santa to everyone he knew, but got
gifts like grey plaid socks! Later that night at the gig, when the crowd
weren’t screaming as much for him, as he thought they should, he
threw all his G-UNOT chains out of his pram and screamed ”You know
that this is 50 Cent up here - don’t be treating me like I’m Kanye West!”
You gotta laugh readers.
Rest In Peace Dr. Donda West - one of the most inspirational
women I've ever had the pleasure to work with.
People of colour lead many
trail blazing paths in the fields of
comedy, music, sport and showbiz - we even have a few sportswear street-flava clothing lines
that are international like Sean
John, Phat Farm, Roc-A-Wear
and FUBU, but where are our international couture designers? I
can only think of Oswald
Boateng’s. Hopefully they’re just
on the periphery about to break
through and blow up. This month
saw the third annual Kuture to
Couture event take place at the historic V&A Museum in London
where
projects
Ambassador
Damon “fresh to death” Dash welcomed 300
VIP guests from all walks of life alongside Lee
Jasper from the Mayor’s Office. As we entered we were offered pink champagne,
cocktails and nibbles. All journos present
were buzzing with excitement as we’d
walked along the front row of named seats
and seen Oswald Boateng’s name alongside
Lewis Hamilton, many UK movers and shakers and music stars and...drum roll...Ms.
Naomi Campbell!
My MTV crew and I were seated right
behind Damon and Naomi and were excited
beyond belief! Lee jasper introduced
Damon to the crowd which we were all excited about as this was the first time Damon
had returned to Europe since his fall out
with his brethren Jay-Z two years ago.
So what's the first thing Lee Jasper does? Introduce him as
“Damien Dash” (cringe) And he continues to put his size 20 feet in his
mouth by jokily suggesting Damon's suit was shabby compared to his
(double cringe). Damon looked gob smacked, was speechless and I’m
sure a few cusses were ready to erupt but he bit his lip and took the mic
with grace and informed Lee that his suit had his name on it cos it was
made by his designer wear label. OUCH. Once the catwalk fashion
shows began we were treated to 17 different new up and coming designers from a black/African/Caribbean background. My favourite was
a designer who had me salivating at his knee length pencil skirts, fitted blazers and sexy blouses. Power dressing made to look sexy and
fly! Straight after the show finished, the organisation was very shabby
cos literally the whole room made a beeline running towards Naomi
and Damon and just kept snapping away with their cameras screaming “Damon,” “Naomi” as both of them looked dazed and couldn’t believe no one from the organisation was controlling folks - in fact - it
pains me to say this but a lot of the folks who organised the event were
the culprits. So unprofessional dahhlings. Naomi was out of there
quick time whilst Damon patiently conducted all his interviews back-
stage. I’ve interviewed Damon countless times in the past 10 years but
I can say I was shocked by this Damon. He was as polite as ever but the
loud, brash, laughter ridden, swagnastic Mr. Dash of the past was
gone. He mentioned he was thinking about his 5 months pregnant wife
- fellow designer Rachel Roy- and was looking forward to being a
daddy again.
Obviously I asked him about his current projects, as The Roc was
no longer part of his life. Along with the ProKeds line he bought years ago, Damon said he
was focusing on Damon Dash clothing as he
had outgrown clothes like Roc-A-Wear.
“What's a 36-year-old man like me going to do
wearing and selling Roc-A-Wear - I’ve grown
up - I’m past that and moved onto more sophisticated clothing,” he said.
I mentioned I’d only just watched “Death
of a Dynasty” again, and he told me he was
now making a movie called “Mr. Untouchable,” about an old legendary American
gangster. Sound familiar? When I suggested
a competitive rivalry with his old compadre
Jay, he snapped, “how can it be competing he’s just made a soundtrack influenced by
American gangster - I'm making my own
movie!” Ooohh miaw!
Damon’s grey suit was dapper, whilst Naomi
rocked simple black pants and vest with shoestring straps -a classic look - I was 10 inches away
from her for the whole show, so I studied her hair
in detail and couldn’t see one bond or track line that wig or weave was the silkiest and most lustrous I’ve ever seen - she shopped for that well!
As Xmas is only days away I have to shop
smart right now - but I have been year round every time I see something cute anywhere around
the world I pick it up - Xmas is a doddle gift wise
for me.
The only gifts I have trouble with are my parents and Mariah - I know what to get everyone else
- this Xmas I have bought a few of my nearest and
dearest very sophisticated personalized stationary,
a few glamorous perfumes, some cute Adidas
sneakers, some books, winter warmers like leather
gloves and scarves, pretty blingtastic earrings from Butler and Wilson
(Beyonce’s fav store for earrings!), a Patrick Kevin faux fur coat, some
T Magic slogan t-shirts (the latest celeb trend), some Elizabeth Arden
beauty creams, a bespoke handbag service, a massage, a luxury manicure and pedicure from Cucumba, a Dermalogica facial, the Roots
DVD collection, a couple of bottles of Alize Rose, a Canon digital camera, some kiddie toys, and lots of fun!
My own shopping rules are never shop at weekends with the
commoners - always pick an early or late week time, always wear flat
shoes, never be intimidated by snobby store assistants - you are able
to shop - they are merely store assistants clothed in their stores wares.
Also - observe the way store dummies are styled - you will pick up
a lot more tips and ideas about how to put pieces together. Ladies - if
you are buying gadgets or cars embrace the internet like our brothers
- I’ve bought a few great buys online at nearly half of the cost in a store,
also finally-remember a bargain is only a bargain if you know you’re
paying less than its really worth - not if you buy five pairs of shoes for
20 dollars - that will just give you corns, bunions and hammertoes!
Happy Shopping!
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WHAT WILL
YOU BE
DRIVING?
Range Rover Sport
THE RIDES SURE TO TURN HEADS IN 2008
Rawle E. Francis
onsider this… If your pockets were as deep as the
blue Caribbean Seas what would be your daily
driver? Today most of the Caribbean’s wealthiest
people opt to drive the more trendy, urban and
user-friendly vehicles on a daily basis. They're usually expensive, therefore exclusive; sporty and never boring.
In this issue of Ocean Style we’ll go back to the future,
2008 to be precise and explore the top 10 most desirable cars
for 2008. Although most of the ‘08 models are just becoming
available to consumers within the region, getting a preview of
the “sexiest, hottest, wildest wheels” soon to be available at
Caribbean based dealerships has never been easier.
To find cars best suited for the heavy hitting, chic Islanders, we considered one criteria alone; pure sex appeal. We
looked at features like DVD/music flexibility, Adaptive Cruise
Control, Smart cuppholders, Multi-zone Climate Control,
Temperature Controlled Seats, Household Power Outlets and
Backup Cameras, we even analyzed clean energy and stopand-go gas mileage. We also know that Female drivers have
moved beyond the minivan and now desire the head turners,
in doing so they are making a strong statement about their independence.
C
BMW 1-Series
Ladies and gentlemen, from a range of body styles and in no particular order,
here are the cars that impressed us most:
1: The King of SUVs. Range Rover Sport
Having earned numerous accolades over the years including but not limited
to, the #1 Car Women Melt Over, #1 For Road Trips, #1 in white, the Range
Rover Sport is now known in the motoring world as the King of SUV’s.
Now on sale, the 2008 Range Rover Sport features a series of luxury
touches and practical new refinements to ensure continuing appeal to customers. Arguably, the best selling point of the Range Rover Sport is not its
superb handling characteristics nor its zero-compromise on performance
but its absolutely remarkable road presence and the Five Star level of interior amenities it provides.
Land Rover hopes the supercharged, 400-hp engine, 20-inch wheels and
features such as rear-seat DVD entertainment system, four-zone air conditioning, ‘climate control’ windscreen and side glass along with other driver
improvements too numerous to mention will help sustain continued growth
in sales throughout 2008.
2: Welcome the NEW. BMW 1-Series Coupe
Modern, authentic and agile performance. These are some highlights one
can expect from the all-new 1 Series coupe sedan. Already dubbed “the next
BMW legend” by critics, it represents the core BMW philosophies of pure
performance complemented by premium design. By combining legendary
rear-wheel-drive dynamics, superior handling, powerful engines and seating
for four, the 1-Series Coupe is expected to win the hearts of the young and
aspiring business associates.
Available to the Western regions are two variants of the BMW 1-Series
Coupe including a 128i and the 135i.
The futuristic interior design is guaranteed to impress friends and
family alike. It incorporates sophisticated trim elements with luxurious upholstery and color choices. A wide selection of audio
and communication peripherals are also available, most never
before available in the compact performance market. No less
than six airbags come standard within the new BMW 1-Series Coupe for optimum protection of the car’s occupants.
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Mini Cooper Clubman
Mercedes-Benz C-Class
3: Where do you want to be? 2008 Mercedes Benz C-Class
The new C-Class reflects Mercedes' updated exterior design language, with design attributes sampled from the new S-Class sedan
and R-Class crossover. Designed to compete with the BMW 3-Series, sedan models range from the basic C180 Kompressor to the 272
horsepower C350. In addition, the C300 Sport and Luxury models
will be available in 2008 with an all-new 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system mated to a seven-speed transmission.
Among the new features is an Agility Control System, which offers shock absorbers that adjust to the driving situation, plus a steering ratio of 14.5 and a short travel gearshift. Compared to the previous
series, Mercedes-Benz has enlarged the deformation zones to improve
safety. The front-end structure of the new C-Class has four independently acting impact levels, which enable forces to be distributed over
a wide area while bypassing the passenger compartment.
Standard equipment includes a power sunroof, eight-way power
front seats with lumbar support, two-zone automatic climate control,
17-inch wheels, Bluetooth connectivity and a central controller with a
seven-inch display screen.
4: Can you say Stretch? 2008 Mini Cooper Clubman
For 2008, Mini's lineup gets a little less mini. Expect to see gracing the
white sandy beaches of tropical getaways in 2008, the Mini Cooper
Clubman, a stretched Mini.
Already a well-received concept, the 5 door is stretched by 2-3
inches for more interior space. This lifts the Mini's appeal greatly. It
has double swing doors in the rear, instead of a pull up lid. It also
features a suicide door on the right side for passenger access to the
back seat. Inside, Clubman can be personalized with a choice of four
interior colors.
The 2008 Mini Cooper Clubman is totally unconventional. This
in itself might be its biggest asset. The Clubman's retro layout will no
doubt appeal to a lot of people who have tired of the traditional
wagon theme served up over the past 30 years. What the Clubman
lacks in space, it more than makes up for with good looks. That was
the clincher.
5: Crazy for Convertibles. 2008 Audi TT Coupe
Audi's TT sports car, meanwhile, was a stunner when it came out and
a sales winner for the company. Now the brand has re-penned the car,
Audi TT Coupe
giving it more aggressive lines in hopes of helping it compete with fare
from the likes of Porsche. The 2008-model year roadster will be available with Audi's 3.2 liter V6 that pumps out a growling 250 horses.
There's nothing better to get the heart racing than a sexy drop top.
6: Have it all. 2008 MAZDA 5
You can have it all with the MAZDA5 and if it seems too good to be
true, it’s not. With all the cargo space and convenience of a larger-sized
family vehicle, the Mazda 5 screams “ Trendy.” There aren't many minivans that combine Sport hatch performance, dual
sliding rear doors, room for six and precise engineering to make a dream come true for
the baby boomers. The 2008 model
sports a fresh look but retains its
distinct Japanese edginess. The
most noticeable change on the
08 model is the new front end
styling with a more V-shaped
grille and bumper. The Mazda5
remains the most compelling vehicle in the wagon/minivan market.
7: The name says it all. Smart ForTwo
The ladies love affair with small cars is about to be tested with the arrival of the 2008 Smart ForTwo. Encouraged by the success of the Mini,
Daimler is banking on techno hungry urbanites to try its diminutive
new two-seater.
The Smart "micro car" was designed primarily for urban use,
where parking is scarce and fuel economy is of great importance. The
Smart’s length of only 8ft allows as many as three of the vehicles to be
parked in the space normally taken by one standard-length car.
Clever packaging makes the most of the space. There is 7.8 cubic
feet of cargo space, which gives it an edge over the Mini. Driver space
is also generous with the passenger seat is positioned slightly behind
the driver seat to optimize shoulder room.
Providing adequate passenger safety was a challenge to the designers. To solve this and provide a rigid frame, a solid steel “Tridion”
frame protects the passenger compartment and defines the basic
shape of the car as well. Interchangeable plastic body panels complete
the exterior.
Smart ForTwo
8: The Alternative Concept. 2008 Nissan Rogue
Since almost every SUV is selling like hotcakes, Nissan should have a hit
on its hands.
Solely designed to tackle well-established models like Toyota's Rav4
and the Honda CRV, Nissan hopes Rogue's rugged image and streamlined design will appeal to young males and carefree females alike. Meant
to be a sporty alternative, the Rogue was styled to evoke an “urban, contemporary” feel with its unique sheet metal finish succeeding in creating
a modern, muscular look all its own.
9: For Speed, Dig This. 2008 Subaru Impreza WRX STI Hatchback
This is an all-new STI and I am not just referring to its provocative hatchback shape. It looks like it's on steroids. The car is simply beautiful. There
is rally-style hardware built in giving fanatics an unprecedented 304
horsepower and 8,000 rpm to play with.
With new five-door hatchback packaging and street-fighter styling,
the Impreza targets a whole new customer base. The STI's turbocharged 2.0-liter horizontally opposed four-cylinder is the first Subaru engine to break the unofficial 300-hp limit that has been observed
by Japanese car manufacturers since 1989.
Taking the STI toward the prestige part of the market is a selection of
premium features, including a starter button, keyless entry and Driver
Controlled Center Differential and Subaru Intelligent Drive. This system
alters the engine and throttle mapping to three settings: basically Icy,
Sport and Sharp.
The car offers superior handling and performance, the levels of technology are outstanding and the driving experience is second to none.
10: Officially Official. 2008 Honda Accord Coupe & Sedan
Here is the moment you’ve all been waiting for. Yes folks, the most anticipated car of the year, the 2008 Honda Accord Coupe and Sedan.
The Accord has always occupied an extremely important position
within Honda and within the automotive marketplace. It is more than just
the company’s flagship passenger car from engineering and sales standpoints. Reliable, safety-oriented and efficient, the Accord is also the most
comprehensive expression of Honda’s DNA worldwide.
The new Accord engages the driver with a refined and rewarding
performance feel, yet ride comfort remains equally impressive for passengers. Furthermore, the level of standard equipment and premium features allow customers to create an environment that matches all 21st
century expectations.
Accord is the most highly decorated car in Honda’s history. It has
been selected as one of Car and Driver Magazine’s 10Best a remarkable 21
times in the last 25 years - more than any other vehicle in the award’s history. A brief history of recent important awards for previous-generation
Accords include:
• 2007 Car and Driver - “10Best Cars”
• 2007 AAA/Parents - “Best Car for Families”
• 2007 Cars.com - “Best Car for Small Families”
• 2006 Consumer Guide Automotive - “Best Midsize Car”
• 2006 Kelley Blue Book - “Best Resale Value Award” (Accord Hybrid)
• 2006 Intellichoice.com - “Motorist Choice Awards” (Sport and
Midsize Categories)
• 2006 Money - “Best Cars of 2006”
• 2005 Edmunds.com - “Most Researched Cars of 2005” (#1)
• 2005 Autobytel.com - “#1 Overall Most Requested New Vehicle”
• 2004 Automotive Market Environmental Superiority Awards - Best
“Midsize” Car
• 2004 Motor Trend - “King of the Road” (family sedan comparison)
• 2003 Ward’s - “Ten Best Engines” (Accord 3.0-liter V-6)
Honda Accord Coupe
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Halo 3
07
OCEAN
STYLE
GUIDE TO THE
SEASON’S
HOTTEST VIDEO
GAMES
1. HALO 3 (M, Action); The third part in Microsoft's marquee franchise, it has proven to be a sales
phenomenon with over $170 Million in game sales on its FIRST DAY! The hot game for XBOX360
owners, the campaign returns with 11maps,expanded multiplayer modes, improved next generation graphics, as well as returning favourite multiplayer modes such as King of the Hill, Capture the
Flag and Deathmatch, make this HALO huge. There is even a theater mode in which it allows you
to auto save your last 25 campaign levels or multiplayer matches and allows you to watch them
from any player's perspective. The online gaming is where HALO shines and Microsoft has improved online play with online leader boards which provide incentive to return to campaign again
and again. (XBOX360)
2. MADDEN 08 (E,Sports); The newest
in the Madden series of football games.
MADDEN has long been considered
one of the best football simulators to
date and continues to delight the fans of
the series on all the game consoles (PS3,
XBOX360 and Nintendo Wii). The
newest MADDEN continues in the
same vein and does not disappoint.
(PS3, XBOX360, Nintendo Wii)
3. FIFA 08 (E, Sports) Soccer, the world's game.
The official FIFA licensed game, FIFA08 comes
with improvements in almost everything. Never
ending league licenses, loads of goalkeeper animations, tournament creator, an involving manager mode, natural feeling collisions and more
fluidly moving players. The "trick stick" makes a
return and helps the player to beat defenders
with more style and flair! Definitely good fun for
everyone. (PS3, XBOX360)
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4. FINAL FANTASY XII (T, Fantasy Role
Playing); The 12th installment in the Final
Fantasy series returns with better graphics and huge worlds to explore. Did I say
better graphics? I meant awesome, beautiful graphics. The long standing series
has players exploring a fantasy world,
forming parties along the way to aid in
your exploration and battles. A very
beautiful game. (PS2)
5. BIOSHOCK (M, Science Fiction, Action)
Mankind tries to create an undersea
utopia in the future and everything goes
wrong. You are sent to investigate. This
single player game has been rated a 10 by
almost all the gaming experts. Strong storytelling, excellent graphics and great
game play. An instant classic. (XBOX360)
6. HEAVENLY SWORD (M, Fantasy Role
Playing) Some have likened this game to
a "female god of war" and that would be
a compliment as God Of War is an excellent game. With your twin swords you
fight against evil. Once again great
graphics and very fluid movement of the
characters make for a great game. (PS3)
ESRB RATING KEY
E=content suitable for persons 6 and older
E(10)=content suitable for persons 10 and older
T=content suitable for persons 13 and older
M=content suitable for persons 17 and older
8. NBA 2K8 (E, Sports) The reigning king of basketball games with
improved and retooled A.I. this has becoming the basketball game
for the hardcore fan. Plays have to be more thought out earning it
the nickname – the thinking man's basketball game. The association
franchise mode is back and it is even deeper and much improved.
A better basketball game. (PS3, XBOX360)
7. METROID PRIME 3:CORRUPTION (T, Action, Science Fiction) Part three
where you play as female bounty hunter Shamus. This is a series that has a
faithful following and it earned it by giving players lots of action, thrills and
spills in one package. Travel through alien environments battling a host of
evil aliens. (NINTENDO Wii)
9. MARIO STR ICKERS
CHARGED! (E, Sports) Play
soccer as one of the characters in Mario and Luigi's
crazy world and charge up
with crazy powers and delight to the crazy antics of
the characters on screen.
(NINTENDO Wii)
10. JUICED 2: HOT IMPORT NIGHTS (T, Racing) The
hot import auto scene is well represented in this title,
and like the scene it represents, it is not your ordinary
racing import simulator. The games emphasis is on
choice with an almost unlimited number of customization options for your car. Drifiting, racing for pink slips
and being able to complete multiple goals in one race,
adds that little extra dash of something that helps this
title to edge out the competition. Online play even allows you to race for someone's pink slip and more. The
winner gets to keep the loser's car. The next generation
graphics make the deal even sweeter. Career mode is
even better in this Juiced and really adds to the fact that
races can be used to accomplish more than one goal.
Even putting the heat on someone else's bumper for a
long time and they will get spooked and wipe out!
FUN! (PS3 and XBOX360)
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MIX & STIR
DRINK LIVELY AND HEALTHY WITH THIS OCEAN SPRAY
CONCOCTION SURE TO DELIGHT WHILE KEEPING YOU HEALTHY.
BE R R Y C H O C O L AT E S M O O T H I E
2 cups Ocean Spray Cranberry Juice Cocktail chilled
1 cup strawberry yoghurt
21/2 cups frozen whole strawberries
2 tablespoon powdered sugar, if desired
¼ mini chocolate chips
Directions:
Put all ingredients in blender, except chocolate chips,
in a blender
Blend on high speed till smooth
Add chocolate chips and pulse until chopped
Pour into glasses and serve immediately
Makes 4 servings