It is very humbling to know so many of us still give back to our community. The students and staff provided tributes to each of the honorees in front of 300+ parents and supporters of the Marion P. Thomas Charter School.

Congratulations to the 2013 Honorees:
Darren & Jalil Dowdy,

Darren Dowdy(President & CEO, Razac Products Company)

Jalil Dowdy (VP of Sales & Marketing, Razac Products Company)

Rev. Dr. David Jefferson, Sr., Esq.(Pastor, Metropolitan Baptist Church)

Dr. Theodore Johnson (VP Human Resources, NJIT)

Dr. Larry Leverett (Executive Director, Panasonic Foundation)

click the image below to be directed to the event photo gallery

(l-to-r) John Gamble (Marion P. Thomas Charter School Middle School Principal), Remi Dabney (Marion P. Thomas Charter School Elementary School Principal), RahFeal Gordon (RahGor Motivations)

The movie picks up where Holla I left off, depicting leading lady Monica — played by former 3LW songstress Kiely Williams — trying to cope with the death of her closest family members and friends at the hands her deranged sister, Veronica. It shows the hip-hop/reggae singer attending a wedding where the celebration goes awry. A night at their haunted plantation turns into a murderous mystery.

HOLLA II Cast & Crew

For more information on select theaters and to view the trailer, visit www.hollabackmovie.com.
Make sure to follow HOLLA II on Twitter @HollaTwo.

Provided by:
MCL Media
info@mclmedia.net
www.mclmedia.net (coming soon)

FOLLOW US ON TWITTER! @MCLMEDIA

JasFly (VH1′s The Gossip Game) interviews cast & executive producer

JasFly interviews Executive Producer HM Coakley

Click here to view all photos

Dj Sean Malcom & Miss Honey B @ Brag About Sundays (4.14.13)

The event was hosted by Atlanta’s Radio Personality @MissHoneyB while DJ Sean Malcom torched the turntables to a packed house.

Power 105′s Angela Yee was in the building along with a slew of industry execs, producers, artists, models, beautiful women and suave fellas.

Shout out to Jade Norfleet of Innovative Popularity for the invite.

The venue provides a breath-taking 360 degree panoramic view of Brooklyn, Manhattan and New Jersey, which includes the newly constructed Barclays Center and the Statue of Liberty from 26 stories up.The food was excellent, the staff was very professional yet friendly and I would definitely attend again.

Write-up & Photos by:
Mr. Michael Ivery
Director of Operations
Desirable Magazine

l to r: Kevin Gough, Angela Yee & Jay Morrison

Event Details:
When: Every 2nd and 4th Sunday of Each month (3pm – 8pm)
Where: Brooklyn Terrace – 216-228 Duffield Street, Brooklyn, New York 11201
Specials: $20 for 2hrs of unlimited mimosas (3pm – 5pm)
Cost: Free with RSVP
RSVP: bragaboutsundays@gmail.com or rsvpforbas@gmail.com
Event Partners: MCM PR, iPop and Exec Management

Click flier to be directed to event photos

2013 Press Kit

Author Alexia Frasier spoke so passionately about her mother who is now deceased and how her mother left her with the gift of love despite her mothers medical hardship .Ms. Pam Sullivan positive influence helped nurture her daughters Jasmine Sullivan reach her greatness.

Listening to the story of Mrs. Ronda Hamilton and how she receives her jewelry inspirations by God which gives her the creativity to design such one of a kind unique pieces.Getting such a intimate insight on the mother and daughter team . Ms Logan West also known as Ms. Teen U.S.A 2012 and her awesome mom Ms.Patricia West and her mother continues to give herb the tools for success . The common thread of greatness birthing greatness and passing and passing it on . A sisterhood of positivity supporting each other was beautiful to be a part of.

Interviews and Write up By Peggy Pierre
Interview transcribed by Crista Washington

Interviews:
Alexia Frasier

DM: Dealing with your mother’s death due to improper medical diagnosis must have been so incredibly hard for you. How did you gain the strength to tell your mother’s story?
Alexia: It was just so natural, like it was meant to be, because after she passed it was like I was so driven. I started writing and I just kept going and going, so it really became natural so easily.
DM: And how has writing Memories of Mom helped shape your life?
Alexia: Lovingly, she was such a loving, kind and warm person that I admired her, you know? Her ways from when I was a child, she loved everyone’s children. She would always say “Every child has a mother.” And I was really touched as a young child. Now I try to live my life being just like her.

DM: What do you want readers to take away from Memories of Mom?
Alexia: That they should be respectful, loving and kind to their, not just their parents but their elders because once they get older it’s like now they’re the child and you would want to be treated a nice way when you get old. So, it should be just that kind of love. Now you are my child and you like love and patience and that’s all you need. Because with love comes patience and with patience comes loving tender care.

Pam Sullivan
DM: What is your mother/daughter relationship like with your daughter, Jazmine Sullivan?
Pam: The relationship is really close. It’s close because not only are we mother and daughter but we are manager and client as well. So, if that covers so much, so much more than just a mother and daughter relationship.

DM: Do you have any musical background?
Pam: Well, I use to. I use to sing, I use to be a recording artist myself. I didn’t go very far with it because I experienced a spiritual relationship with God in the midst of my career. I decided to pursue that, as appose to my career. So, and then after that is when I started having my children. But, yes I sing back up for some local groups. One was McFanning Whitehead and then I pursued a career of my own in which I made a record that didn’t really go very far but that’s the extent of what I did.

DM: I hear you have a business selling dolls to promote healthy self-esteem in young women…old tell me more about that and what inspired you to start it?
Pam: Yes, my dolls came about really in 2010 when Jazmine declared on Facebook that she would be taking a break and that she had to find herself. And so I thought about not only her, but all of the other young girls, that didn’t really experience the things she did. And, if she was having self-image issues, what would other girls be having? I just, you know, I had the time while she was on break to do something for somebody else’s child. So, I made this doll that, which looks like the child and the body, has affirmations. It’s almost like a nude body, because it’s not about what you have on or what you have, it’s about what you believe inside. So, it has affirmations, positive affirmations all over the body so that the child can read and it also talks and says things like “ I love myself”. Particularly for African American children that are constantly thinking that they have to have weaves and lighter skin and things like that. So the doll says things like “I love myself”, and “I’m smart”. It is a tool to basically assist parents, because today we need assistance, it’s so many things going on that is working against us, like the television, music and peer pressure that prints need assistance. So, I just wanted to do my part to assist somebody.

DM: Why did you decide to support Alexia Fraser’s Memories of Mom?
Pam: Well, I’m about to tell everybody that, I’ve always admired a woman who loves and is devoted to her mother. I think that’s really a special thing because so many relationships are s turbulent between mother and daughter. You know when the get to that age, where they want to be grown and when I find a woman who loves her mother, you know, I just respect that so much. So that’s what basically brought me here.

DM: What’s next for you?
Pam: Well, I’m working on some projects but I think the most important thing is that Jazmine is coming out with an album this year. I’m happy to report that she had her break and that she is ready. She took her time and she’s ready to return. She has some great music and iM just looking forward to enjoying the rest of her career.

Rhonda Hamilton (owner of Just Funki Boutique)
DM: How long has Just Funki been in operation?
Rhonda: I started about 8 years ago, but I’ve only been in this retail location for almost a year.
DM: Where do you gain your inspiration from for your eclectic jewelry pieces?
Rhonda: From God. Really, I know that sounds like a cliché answer but I really believe that art is just a form of Gods beauty in the earth and because that’s who I am, I serve God. When I make my creations, for me it’s just an extension, I literally like blow it out. That’s it, I don’t draw. I make what I see and that’s it, there it is. If you don’t like it, he did it.
DM: What made you support Alexia Fraser’s Memories of Mom?
Rhonda: Well, I’ve known Alexia for many years and I knew her mother as well. But, I do have a copy of the book; I’ve gone to previous signings and read the book. To me it’s just a great story. She’s a great person and it’s a great story. She’s a great person, and it’s a great story. Also, I’m really close to my mom, so I really understand, you know, the concept behind it, the idea and I just think it’s really wonderful.
DM: Are there any upcoming events that we should know about? Anything new?
Rhonda: I am planning to do a ladies night soon and probably a henna party too, I’m in the process of planning that, but I’m also looking to expand and do other things. I don’t know if you noticed my light fixture, I actually designed that and did that myself. So, I’m looking at doing a home line and other things. I’m also reaching out to celebrities, I do have something. Chrisette Michelle actually has some pieces in tour right now and so I’m reaching out trying to get my things worn by people who are seen too. So, I have a mix, I mean because it’s all art, that’s why I call my store Wearable Art.

Miss teen USA 2012 Logan West & Mom, Patricia West

The Sullivan Family

Attending guests were the Sullivan Family, Mrs. Teen USA, Logan West and her mother Patricia West, and many more. Guests indulged in mouth watering hor’dourves sponsored by Feisty Flavors, Catering by Cindy Thomas and also relished the M.O.M.S. experience with intimate photos captured by celebrity photographer, Ernest Henderson of Henderson Photography and Darryl Howard of Harlem Pix.

Click here to view the event photo gallery.

We all have character building moments in our lives. Disappointing episodes that shape who and what we are, until we find what motivates us to press on. In the spirit of perseverance Ohio based Fashion Designer, Diane Linston created a premium women’s active brand titled N.G.U.; that represents an inner spirit women have to never give up.

Fashion Designer, Dian Linston explains, “I’m excited about presenting the N.G.U. collection during New York Fashion Week. I want to inspire women to believe in their dreams. So when a woman wears N.G.U. Designs… perseverance is something that she will always think about. N.G.U. which mean ‘Never Give Up’, believe in your dream, and go for your dream!”

The N.G.U denim lifestyle collection debuted during New York Fashion Week at the Rogues Gallery Presents market week showcase. This is a ready-to-wear line that is manufactured using high quality denim fabric; with innovative designs that contour the female physic. The styles are unique, savvy and racy for women who live an active lifestyle. During the presentation the models moved fluidly in each garment without a hint of restriction that can occurs in form fitted denim garments. The N.G.U designs are available is sizes 6 through 28, and retails between, $120.00 to $200.00.

Linston’s design studio is called Styles of Imagination and is located in Maple Heights, Ohio. Her denim collection can be found in fifteen stores throughout the US and she plans to expand into more boutiques. Linston uses the N.G.U. brand to embellish her motivation for women. Diane Linston has been honored by the Phenomenal Foundation for her many positive contributions within the community. Linston also received recognition from Cleveland based Proyecto Luz organization, for volunteering time and fashions during a benefit fundraiser for Aids awareness. Linston volunteers her time at various schools during Dress for Success, and career council events in Cleveland, Ohio. She speaks to women in transition about how to dress, and mentors at organizations like Junior Achievement, the NAACP mentoring program. Linston also sits on the fashion design advisory board for Women of Making Moves organization, at Virginia Marti College. Linston is well respected in her community as she takes a grass-roots approach towards marketing the N.G.U. brand …with the tenacity of a fox. Diane Linston is proof that to “Never Give Up” is what’s always in style.

NGU DESIGNS (Never Give Up)
Diane Linston
Styles of Imagination Design Studio
PO Box 37125
Maple Heights, OH 44137
216-410-8555

Corinne Monique’s designs are inspired by elements of nature and cultures she has yet to experience. During February’s New York Fashion Week, Corinne displayed garments that evoke exoticism of the far east; and is a modern take on an ancient oriental style worn by a warrior empress of the future. The Corinne Monique Fall/Winter 2013 collection is titled, ‘The Year of the Serpent’. Some of the fabrics are hand made by Corinne. Handmade fabrics are one part of the custom approach to the Corinne Monique’s ready-to-wear dresses. The collection was presented using seductive colors and sensual textures such as silks, wool, printed velvets, lace, and gilded finishes. Pieces of decadent fabrics are adored with mythical creatures to symbolize 2013 as the year of the serpent. The fashion looks were cut using ready-to-wear dresses, yet finished with haute couture techniques.

“I design fashions for a wide range demographic. My creations are for the twentyish woman to a more sophisticated woman. And the aesthetic is more about what I would like to wear. But I have created full figured fashions for a local boutique in Toronto too. So, I like to keep my future creative options open.”

Corinne Monique is one of New York Fashion Week’s emerging designer talents for the fall 2013 season. This is Corinne’s first experience presenting during New York’s market week. “I’ve normally created fashions for myself or as commissioned special orders, but I am hoping to sell and get my fashions in boutiques across North America. The Rogues Gallery Presents production team was really organized, and my experience was actually very good! I’m still excited and would definitely present in the New York fashion market again. I thought all the designers who presented in the RGP collective were really amazing! I’m so happy to have been a part of it.” claims Corinne. The Corinne Monique Collection offers timeless and luxurious fashions for today’s modern woman …who is well traveled or maybe not.

Corinne Monqiue Design Studio
3602-21 Carlton St.
Toronto, ON M5B 1L3, Canada
647-993-4939
corinnemonique.design@gmail.com
www.corinnemonique.grandportfolio.com

“Urban Masala is a cultural hybrid collection because it brings the ethnic mix to a level where it is wearable, not as costume but as everyday wear. Many people won’t wear ethnic clothing because it’s perceived as a costume. As a form of cultural expression you’re not obligated to wear the complete cultural dress anyway. Because we are in an era where corporate culture is not supportive of cultural dress as everyday wear, people tend to take a little dab of culture and apply it to contemporary dress. This is something I noticed when I sold full mud-cloth coats through Nordstrom some years ago. Mud-cloth was my entree into Nordstrom Department Stores. The coats sold well, so I know that there is a market for cultural hybrid fashions”, states Peerzada.

Urban Masala offers women alluring dresses without women being sexually over exposed. Peerzada proudly defines her approach to aesthetic design as being “old school” because she likes ensembles that are matching, as does her customer base. Typically, the younger generation consciously purchase separates; and looks to mix different designer pieces. The Urban Masala fashion line is a new moniker for what Peerzada has always created using hand block printing on non-seasonal fabrics. The line is intended for a broad customer base that identifies with a cultural hybrid approach to achieve a modest metropolitan style.

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CREDITS:

Publication: Desirable Magazine
Model: Karlie Redd
STAFF:
Lead Wardrobe Stylist: KL Allen
Co-Stylists: Clyde Lewis, Sieje Akime
Key Makeup Artist: Marisa Moss
Assistant Makeup Artist: Natalie Askie
Hairstylist: Nicola Gibson
Interviewer: Lydia Pierre
Photographers:
Lennie Reid
Dontez Akins