SUMMER 09 PRE-RELEASE ISSUE

WWW.SPOKENMAGAZINE.NET

To Be Young Gifted and Black Interview with Isaiah Armstrong

Hottest Female PoetsMore than a Pretty Face, She Has Something to Say

The aRt We Live InA Foundation for a balanced Interior

Sugar Hill’s Last StandA Photo Montage that includes Bilal, Eric Roberson,

N’Dambi, and Jafaar

EV

ER

YM

AN

JA

CK

.CO

M

SUMMER 09

Co

nte

nts In This Issue

ISSN: 1559-3533

Spoken Magazine

Arts-Entertainment Publication

Spoken Magazine, LLC

A division of Spoken MediaWorks

ATLANTA, GA

WWW.SPOKENMAGAZINE.NET

editor@spokenmagazine.net / 404.551.5379 /

888.755.9413 (toll free)

7 The Remnant; A Return to Hip Hop

8 To Be Young Gifted and Black: Isaiah Armstrong

10 The Prologue

12 Why Women Cheat On The Men they Adore

16 Hottest Female Poet Contest

29 Fashion Tips for the R ising Diva

30Sugar Hil ls Last Stand

32 The Art We Live In

Spoken Magazine Staff

Atlanta Office

Editor-in-Chief & Creative DirectorDerico D. Dabney

Publishing EditorTheresa Horne

Associate EditorEmily Wright

Entertainment Editor

Fellissia McDonald

Birmingham Office

Publishing EditorShermika Dunner

Associate Editor

Maranda Davis

Contributing Staff

Music ReviewsAlfred “Nfared” Vines

Theater ArtsSylvester Little Jr.

FashionParron A. Edwards

Wellness/ProsperityWendy Kay

Contributing WriterBrian D.P. Hawkins

Contributing WriterMelanie Richardson

Contributing WriterTonya Grace

Contributing WriterJonquil S. Harris

InternTerralyn Banks-Skinner

BloggerQuentin D. Gillespie

BloggerKevin Tarver

It’s a sentiment that has been

sounded out by many; on Facebook

status messages, Myspace pages,

and Twitter “tweets” around the coun-

try— Hip-Hop is not what it used to

be. Some say it’s a good thing, others

argue current standards for what re-

ally is Hip-Hop have dropped horribly

low and the art is actually taking a

step backwards. Enter Atlanta group,

The Remnant. Their debut “PB&J”

teeter totters between what Hip-Hop

was and what it can become.

The album starts with the energetic “I

Told You”. The group goes back to an

old school Hip-Hop style by display-

ing confidence without being arrogant

or mentioning material possessions,

pays homage to home, and exhibits

optimism all in one line, “The Rem-

nant still here/still rapping/still local/

still skilled with ill vocals/not signed

but real hopeful...” The track ends

with a triumphant, “Trust us you’ll love

us/you just don’t know it yet.” In dedi-

cation to love there is the thoughtful

“Give Us This Day”. The track starts

out with a witty, “I never hesitate to

procrastinate/better late than never/or

better never late see/you’re a candi-

date…” then delves into the tragedy

of love with, “Our main mistake was

not sharing the same dream…” and

“God only knows about the way we’d

wind up/and I just hate to need to say

goodbye but…” This is love spoken

from the mouth of Hip-Hop in a way

current artists tend to avoid. The

speedy “Catch Your Breath” is a fun

whirlwind listen filled with lyrical jabs

like, “Welcome/even thought the flow

wasn’t welcome/oh well we came/

you’re welcome” and, “Talkin bout

green and the fame/so we had to go

green on the game/cause these kats

pollutin..” The beautiful “Know This”

is a bold display of

Vulnerability and sincerity. Power-

ful lyrics about love are poignant

throughout the track, including “Bay,

do you even know who you are?/Mid-

winter rose morning star/…cause

when I was lonely, you took a risk

on me…”, “Maybe if I loved you less

I could talk about it more…”, and

“Thank you for showing me God ex-

ists…” Extending the God talk, “The

Lovetap” almost jumps through the

speakers with powerful, touching

words that eerily ring true; “God’s

lovetap should be viewed as a new

chance”, and “Return, refresh, retune,

reject, rebirth, reword, rejuvenate

and reset, review, renew, replenish,

redo/it’s all gonna fall if it must for him

to reach you/the lovetap.”

Needle Meter

“PB&J” is a striking testament to true

Hip-Hop. The non cookie cutter pro-

duction combined with skilled lyricism

makes it a rare gem. The concept of

being a “remnant” from an era when

Hip-Hop was more thought provok-

ing and meaningful is not necessarily

genius, but does the job of propelling

this group to another level of thinking.

This album may be too much for the

base level listener though. An album

of 19 songs that are all not about

the same subject matter can seem

abstract to some, and most avid

Hip-Hop heads have the patience

for about 12 or 13 songs before it’s

time to change the disk. But maybe

this is what makes the group differ-

ent; a willingness to be bold, and

using the past to be innovative. The

Remnant—maybe more like, The

Relevant.

Four out of Five Needles

“A Return To Hip-Hop” An Album Review by Nfared

Spoken Magazine 7

“It’s our time right now!”

In five words he summed up, hisoutlook on, the future of young Blackprofessionals before our intervieweven began. Quick, direct and over-whelmingly charismatic, that’s thekind of person that Isaiah Armstronghas grown to be in 22 years of life.

Isaiah is one of those people whosevery skin seems to be made of bothconfidence and good character. Weshook hands and before we wereseated he asks “ You know how Iknow that?” I’m thinking, this will bethe easiest interview I’ve ever given.He’s asking his own questions.

“It was prophesied about our people.”

Isaiah Armstrong is a twenty one-year old student at the University of Alabama at Birmingham who, like many other students, works to make money while in school to support his dreams. Big dreams. So Isaiah created a small contracting firm, an off-shoot of his father’s Genesis 1:1.

While explaining his latest project,where he used paint to mimic thelines and reflective qualities of threewindows onto a conjoining wall, Isaiah says it’s a “recessionisto design”. Mid-way through my next question (I actually asked some questions) I realized, I’d been wit-ness to the birth of new terminology into the American lexicon.

Recessionisto design?

Isaiah stretches his trade mark grinacross his face and says “Thinkabout it. Design at a reasonableprice. It’s a recession and the designis the best you can get for the price.

The work is comparable to high-end,high-priced designers but priced forthe recession.

” When Isaiah says “work”, he really means art. He finishes with, “People don’t realize the artistic implica-tions of painting.” “You know, Color schemes that help the client relax. Not just getting the job done but designing from a psychological standpoint.” [Because]“I don’t work with people’s money, Iwork with your business. I want yourbusiness, not your money.”

Isaiah strives to prove that with every project, every job, every piece of art, giving free estimates on anything in your home that may help increase its value, as well as your comfort. I asked Isaiah where he thought he would be in ten years (a cliché question, I know, but stay with me). He says “I want to get out of the work clothes environment and get into delegation and education.”

Education?

“Yea, I want to get into the class-rooms and get the kids who are not going to college. I wanna to take it back to the neighborhoods. I wanna give somebody else a chance cuz somebody gave me a chance.”Really? Who was that, Isaiah? “I got to where I am because of my father.”

The acknowledgement of a positiveblack male figure was both refresh-ing and unexpected from this seem-ingly self-made young man. “That’swhy a lot of black people don’tachieve and excel; because theydon’t have an old black man in theirlives to pass down knowledge andmaterials.” Right to the heart of theproblem plaguing Black America inany area. Isaiah is quick, direct, and

overwhelmingly charismatic.

Evenwith this bleak summery of the Black Experience, his eyes shine with hope and confidence. While continuing about education, hepassively mentions a trade school. Though he was on a roll, I had to stop him.

What trade school? “Oh, the schoolthat I’m going to open.” Well. Isaiahwants to do more than just paint.He wants rappers to yell out hisnames in their songs as much asthey call out Jacob the Jeweler orAshanti Rims. He wants educatorsto mention him in the same breathas Picasso or Rembrandt. He wantseveryone’s home to indeed be theirsanctuary. But most of all, IsaiahArmstrong wants to save us: Onehouse, one kid at a time.

tO bE yOuNg gIfTeD aNd bLaCk

Isaiah Armstrong sits down with Brian Hawkins

Spoken Magazine 8 Photography by Jessica

The Prologue

T

H

E

A

T

E

R

By: Sy

lveste

r Little

Jr

There will always be people who will

try to discourage you from following

your dreams due to simple malice or

just plain ignorance, especially when

dealing with theater and acting. So,

instead of contributing to the Spo-

ken magazine movement by intro-

ducing exciting theatrical companies

or interest on-stage experiences, I

want to take time to tell my future col-

leagues that regardless of what oth-

ers may tell you, having a career in

theater is certainly an attainable goal.

“So what else do you do?” People

would ask me when they did not ac-

cept the fact that I was a full-time, pro-

fessional actor. There are not many

of us who have the support of family

and friends due to the misconception

that successful “starving artist” must

overcome unimaginable struggles

and unknown dangers, while wait-

ing tables and taking odd jobs in and

around the intimidating city of New

York, hoping one day to find that “big

break” that will propel us to prosper-

ity and validation. But you won’t find

most professional actors on Broad-

way or off-Broadway. Many have

made their living in regional theater.

On the practical side, every profes-

sion has different levels of expertise.

Different paths to follow. It just so

happens that everybody associates

theater with Broadway, in part due to

the fame, money, and infamy it pro-

duces. But there are several options

all around the U.S. for aspiring ac-

tors that consists of musical theater

houses, cruises, year-round and rep-

ertoire troupes, classical theaters, and

touring companies that deliver great

works and bring in great talent. Do

not get me wrong, New York is a good

choice in advancing or even starting

your career, but you don’t have to con-

fine yourself to the pursuit of the bright

lights and big city to be successful.

Now the path will not be easy, but

what path is? Theater is not a profes-

sion to “pay the bills.” Something you

take on just to get by. The majority

of actors love what they do. I started

out with little pay. I worked countless

hours. Up early for touring shows. Up

late for main stage shows. Grueling

rehearsals hoping to achieve near-

perfect performances. I have traveled

every state from Kansas towards the

east, accumulating over 37,000 miles

of driving in 9 months for shows. I

have been beat up physically and

mentally. But my work was so fulfilling,

I felt as if I had not worked a day in my

life in theater. Because I had HEART.

If you want to find success and con-

tent in the career of drama you need

HEART. The grit. The “on the grind”

mentality. The tolerance of rejection

and the perseverance to overcome

it. The wits to research (companies,

roles, plays, etc.) to sustain your ca-

reer. HEART. The desire to jump into

other people’s lives via other people’s

lives to enlighten. To inform. To relate.

To heal. HEART. The want to search

deep within to find traits of characters

totally opposite from yourself. Traits,

good or bad, that you must embrace

in order to, on a given performance,

make the world believe. Entertaining

souls and exercising minds. HEART.

Let me stop preaching. The bottom

line is do not let misconceptions stop

you from venturing down the road of

a thespian. As with any career, you

must do your homework. As with any

career, there will be failure. A drama

career is not a clear cut path. That is

why most people do not understand it.

And why most people shun it. That

is why I wanted to get away from the

negative stories of uninspired actors

and share with you some positive

vibes from somebody who has found

success. So if you are thinking about

acting, keep studying. Practice hard.

Play hard. There are so many pos-

sibilities. And of course, break a leg.

By: Sy

lveste

r Little

Jr.

Spoken Magazine 11

Why Women Cheat on the Men They AdoreBy Theresa Horne, Publishing Editor

Spoken Magazine 12

Between impromptu grocery trips and

dropping the kids at the nearest watering

hole, there often lies time in a woman’s

busy life where she reflects on her

younger, full of life and love days. The

days where men actually courted her.

Now her days are filled with a husband

or boyfriend whose idea of a romantic

evening is crunching over peanut shells at

your neighborhood steak house while he

shifts glances at the football game and

the busty waitress reaching across your

table for the check. So where did it all go

wrong? Was it the moment you stopped

wearing your sexy lingerie because he

barely looks interested? Was it the mo-

ment the kisses stopped being passionate

but are now…predictable? Was it when he

stopped going to the gym and let his beer

belly “sneak up” on him?

Women love attention. No matter the

shape, size, ethnicity or religion. We

all love to be wanted and craved. Ev-

ery woman wants to be the center of

their husband’s life. It’s called the art

of loving to be in love. And women have

perfected the art a trillion times over.

So why do women cheat on the men they

adore? Well, scrape those crumbs off

your blouse, put that chilly Coke aside

and take notes because this could be the

difference between a life of love or a life

of passionate deceit…

The Office Romance

This starts off as a flirt in most cases.

You get that tall, dark and handsome

new hire in the cubicle next to you that

has a sultry voice and even sexier smirk

(even though its over email…so what?).

This man floats through the office giving

all the young tenderoni’s a head nod and

wishful glance. So how did lil’ ole mar-

ried you nudge yourself into this equa-

tion? It happened somewhere between

you sporting that dress that you know

get stares and then dropping some file

folders right outside his cube. He slides

his gaze silkily over your heaving bust

and childbearing hips that sway towards

the carpet to gather your folders. You see

him. He sees you. Then he says those

words you have been waiting almost

six months for your husband to say

“Damn girl, you know you are wear-

ing that dress.” And then you careen

towards the clouds. As you relax on

Cloud 9 in the middle of nowhere

and everywhere, you somehow find

yourself intertwined on his over-

stuffed couch with Martin re-runs

blinking into the darkness like a

strobe light. What started with a

little attention and a kind compli-

ment, turned into you tossing your

marital vows to the wind like an old

CD out the car window.

The Right Place, Right Time

Romance

This is usually a one night stand

that involves a lot of clear vodka

mixed with something behind the

bar sweet and fruity. You and your

man have had the “broken record”

argument again and you are tired of

re-explaining why you want him to

“insert issue here”. But nonethe-

less, like most men, your requests/

complaints/wishes are pushed to

the back of his mind. It only pops up

when he listens to jazz on rainy night

while driving on the interstate…now

how often is that, right (especially if

you live in Georgia)? So here you are,

in some crowded hip hop club with

your girlfriends who insist that you

have a good time and “not let that

*explicative* get you down”. As you

sway your sweaty body to the latest

hit by Akon, you feel strong hands

grip your hips and twist you to the

music.

Each bass pounds into you as you won-

der who this stranger is, why he chose

you out of the crowd of pissed off,

demon-eyed women surrounding the

dance floor. You’re here to have fun,

right? So you dance until your feet

swell inside your “cute” shoes and

he finally rescues you from the other

awaiting hounds to sit you at bar stool

in the dimmest part of the club. He

talks to you about life, love, why he’s

single, his dreams and goals. He shows

you the interest of conversation that

you lack. So you exchange numbers

and the next time you meet, it’s al-

ready written in the stars that you will

taste the flavor of his compromise.

The Past in the Present

Romance

This man has seen you with nappy

pigtails and high water pants yet he

still seems to hang on for the friend-

ship you guys have. You probably

have thought about what it would

be like to lay with him but you can’t

fathom doing it without laughing the

entire time. This is your protector,

your guiding light and most of all,

he has never tried to steal you from

your man! Which by the way, has you

wondering if he is secretly gay…But

nonetheless, you continue listening

to his response on why your husband

is so lazy in your relationship. He

seems to just “get” you. He explains

how he treats his women, the type of

man he is and always seems to com-

ment on how you “could do so much

better”. On the inside, you know he

means “you could do so much better

with me”. So finally after a long cry-

ing session that includes you dripping

snot on his chenille throw, babbling

about why your man just won’t “insert

issue here”…he kisses you slowly…and

you’re not laughing anymore. Actually,

you are wondering “what the hell took

me so long to do that?” Now, you have

crossed the inevitable and invisible

line of your friendship. The point of

no return has been visited. Now you

teeter between two men who you

love and are bound to hurt. Shame on

you…right?

The “Get Back” Romance

Your man comes in from a night of

“hanging with the fellas”, gives you

a liquor stained kiss on the forehead

as you sit up in bed with your arms

crossed. It is 4a.m., and you know all

the clubs close early. So you do the

math in your head: left house at 10

p.m., arrived at club at 11 p.m., club

closes at 2 a.m., ride home takes 30

minutes. The hours and minutes aren’t

adding up and there is a good chance

that the club was never visited anyway

because ironically, his cellphone was

“dead” all evening. So as he jumps in

the steaming shower, you search his

clothes to find smeared makeup on the

shoulders of his shirt. Who was hug-

ging him all night with some knockoff

COVERGIRL makeup? Well, you know

what must be done. Even though you

are tired and barely able to stand up

straight, you muster enough energy

to slide on some dusty lingerie from

the back of the dresser drawer. After

pulling off a couple of dust bunnies,

your man exits the bathroom drip-

ping wet (and yes, looking sexy). The

surprise on his face speaks volumes.

Surprise turns to fear. He knows what

you know is about to happen. You try

every method known to woman kind

to engage him but to no avail. There

is no nookie for your cookie tonight.

And you know what must be done. You

know you have to get him back.

Verbally Abusive Home Life

We all have run across a man who is

so insecure in himself that he finds a

way to beat down his mate mentally.

It couples with the old adage “misery

loves company”. There are men who

want to let you know how overweight,

unattractive and lazy you are. My

question to them is…why are they

with you? That speaks the truth about

how they see themselves. Now, I am

not a head doctor, as they used to say

when I was a child. I am just a plain,

average woman with plain, average

problems like everyone else. But no

one deserves to be treated like less

than the queen or king they are. The

number 2 reason women cheat on men

they love is because they are too busy

loving the wrong man. Just because

you love this man wholeheartedly does

not mean that he loves you with the

same fervor. You owe it to yourself

(and possibly your children) to be in

a healthy relationship. Yes, you will

argue and sometimes mean and hurt-

ful things are thrown like curve balls

to your head. But in the end, that

man should adore you, respect you

and covet you. So in a verbally abu-

sive household, there is no reason to

cheat. There is only reason to leave.

I hope the moral has not passed you

by as you resume drinking your Coke

which must now be room tempera-

ture. There is no valid excuse to cheat

but that does not mean certain things

can’t lend someone to be weak and

vulnerable to temptation. Women are

inwardly loyal creatures that need

the fuel of desire, passion and love to

continue on their journey to growth

and happiness. So for those with the

office romance, just stop. It only ends

with one or both parties being fired.

So not only do you lose the man you

truly love but you lose your source of

income…a big no-no. Always discuss

your issues, don’t become a “right

place, right time” type of woman. It

shows lack of backbone in the end.

Your man will never be able to trust

you again upon finding out because he

will always wonder if every argument

is THE argument that sends you run-

ning to the arms of another man. And

furthermore, never try to get a man

back for cheating on you. Your mor-

als don’t lie within whether someone

else does right by you. Your morals lie

within what you want to bring forth

in a relationship. So in the end, ladies

and gentlemen, the reason women

cheat on the men they adore is be-

cause they are made vulnerable by

lack of attention and desire and have

fallen victim to pitying themselves

rather than rectifying the situation by

making a decision and actually sticking

to it.

Spoken Magazine 13

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Spoken Magazine 16

Shaunteka LaTrese is the

epitome of an artist.

Performing, singing and writ-

ing because she does not know

what else to do is the least of the

worlds concerns. Shaunteka has

captured hearts with her soft

vocals, her pure essence and

the truth. A word smith none the

less, the fascination with words

came at an early age, twisting the

boundaries of the “kings English”

exposing its etymology.

Realizing for every definition

there are 3 words and 2 words with

similarities. Knowing this fact, she

challenged herself to be creative in

her spoken word and brilliant in her

written word. Shaunteka has taking a

new approach to the art form, “I am

an Artist, and I have no line separat-

ing me from spoken, written, poetry,

performance, nor singer. I am” Since

taking the stage in 2003 she has been

knocking on doors and kicking over

tables; her, plan is to speak until your

hear what she is saying.

The editors at

Spoken Maga-

zine went about

the task of

seeking out the

woman who

deemed herself,

“The Hottest Fe-

male Poet”.

Of those that

answered the

call, few came

close to

being donned

the Hottest Fe-

male Poet, but

one clearly stood

apart from the

rest.

Theresa Horne,

our Publishing

Editor, caught up

with the Hottest

Female Poet for

an in depth

interview.

Check out

Shaunteka’s

interview, and the

bios and poetry

excerpts of those

who came close

to claiming the

title of Hottest

Female Poet.

HO

TTEST

FE

MA

LE

PO

ET

“As the dusk fades

into what sometimes resembles

eternity

My Mental reflects on how

I can not recall the

memories needed too,

but ponders

Digressing in what seems to be

a repressed redundancy

Stepping outside what is

Sanity portraying guess images

In Lite years...

In blink a natural response

for hesitation

I blinked, the two second

Delay from the mega pixel

Camera

It’s a sample of

what happens when the picture

is out of focus and you are

to close to the flash”

Photography by D. Dabney

Some say that the essence of woman is in the way her hips sway to soulful melodies, or her sweet whispers of seduction as she graces the stage,

but Shaunteka LaTrese captures the hearts and minds of her audience through her words before the deathly blow of her beauty pounces on the un-suspected.

We met in a coffee shop near Smyrna, GA on a blazing hot summer afternoon. The cars whirled by in the lunch rush oblivious to the greatness that stood be-fore me. Shaunteka LaTrese was under-stated in a fitting brown maxi dress with beads dripping from her neck and black curls kissing the forgiving breeze. It was a delight to meet the Hottest Female Poet and also a little enlightening to how this creature became such a spoken word force in our community.

TH: Thanks for meeting with me! Con-gratulations on your unanimous win for the Hottest Female Poet Competition! We loved your video. What do you clas-sify your art form as?

SL: Thank you! Thank you! I think I would classify my art form as Spoken Soul.

TH: That’s an interesting term. I think we will pin it that from now on! What inspired you to start writing and per-forming?

SL: Really, every day life. I have a large family and the things that hap-pen just within our family gives me a lot of inspiration to work from. I write about actual things that happen to me because if I don’t it usually comes off comical.

TH: Well that’s good to know we are getting all of you when we listen to or read your work. If you could affect one thing with your art form, what would you choose to inspire?

SL: I would want to change lives, affect lives through my words.

TH: I read your poem “In This House” and felt like I was sneaking a look at your diary! Poems like that affect peo-ple, affect lives.

SL: Yeah. The truth is confrontational. I wanted to stand up and say exactly what I felt. It enhances the honesty of the art form.

TH: What’s one thing you would change about the culture of the art form?

SL: Honestly, I have performed at a lot of places and there are some artists (who shall remain nameless) that actu-ally won’t perform if there are only 5 people in the audience. To me, I think you should speak out for yourself, not to impress. But I think we are coming along culturally. Spoken soul is for true

artists.

AR

TISTI

CA

LLY

HO

NEST

Spoken Magazine 18

SH

AU

NTE

KA

L

ATR

ESE

TH: So what are your thoughts on the art, music and physical educa-tion being snatched from schools? How do you think it affects the spo-ken word community?

SL: Without access, children will be lost. Teachers aren’t being teachers anymore. They are simply prox-ies that teach how to pass a test. Back when I was growing up, they taught fundamentals and the test was to gauge how fundamentally sound a kid was. We are a “me” society that lacks the pay it forward mentality. No one wants to share the knowledge they were taught. It’s almost like they say, “I got my degree now you got to go get yours!” rather than helping the chil-dren get to where they are. There won’t be a next generation to ex-press themselves creatively which helps move society along.

TH: So some of our readers would like to know more about you per-sonally…

SL: Oh, I knew this was coming…

TH: So, are you single, dating, involved?

SL: SO single and looking…but has qualifications! I have standards.

TH: I guess we will let that be a teaser. Because I am sure they want to know what the criteria is to be with a woman like you. So I guess we will tell them how to get in touch with you if they want to know more right?

SL: Oh yes! Anyone can come visit my hilarious blog at www.poeticcollective.blogspot.com or send me a message on my web site at www.shauntekalatrese.org . You can catch up on all the latest things I will be doing through facebook or myspace as well. Come see me!

TH: Thanks, Shaunteka and congratulations again!

Support Shaunteka LaTrese’s work by visiting her online blog and seeking out her thunderous shows that promise to get you mad, sad and enlightened all in one evening.

Photography by D. Dabney

Poetry is an art form taken on by many passionate

pursuers, but none as passionate and truthful as

the rare gifts Fallon L. Taylor-Gray (DaT mCeEpo-

Et) expresses through her Spoken Word. Intro-

duced to the world August 15, 1983 in the state of

Indiana, she was relocated to New York City only

days later. Drive, environment, and inspiration all

embody her first published debut, “My Side”.

This talented poet has also been featured on Hot

96.3’s web site and other numerous of sites & net

radio stations. The art form of her Spoken word

calls all diversities found within American commu-

nities to mass unity. mCeEpoEt’s strive to be the

artist that sets the pace for

Individuality, self-love, and true freedom of mind,

body, and soul encompass her as that artist and

uniquely sets her apart.

Sample Work:

so many paths to choose

but left is never right when you’re riding

on cruise

sleepless nights, dimmed lights, no

snooze

sketching this blue print sheet

for a better me all feet no shoes

no sneaks...Just I, myself, & me

boundary free got me flying the friendly

skies

cloud 9 plus 60

& the hand that’s dealt got me going for

self

I can only do me I don’t know nothing

else

& like Jay I can’t see it coming down my

eyes but

these is real tears ya’ll...read in between

the lines

In between these rhymes lies organized

chaos

Tamed lox a flame box

You eat when the plates hot!

That #1 spot got me so motivated

A strong believer of Karma but my

Dharma’s what got my goals pro-rated

Meditation puts me in a different place &

mantras for days got me fly’n pass the

basic

Can ya’ll taste what I’m craving?!?!

With over 50 live performances under her belt, The Storm

is a Spoken Word Artist/Performance Poet who has built a

solid reputation based on her honest and thought-provok-

ing poetry. With over seven years of performing in Ontario,

this native Torontonian seeks to create awareness and

thought to the critical issues found in both her published

prose and within her dynamic live

performances.

Sample Work;

Cries of the Homeless Man

Cries of the homeless man,

aches for concern as arthritis

cripples his bones

Grand-slamming your head

like a credit loan

Moms calling you for dinner,

as he murmurs in low tone

Calming his tears that splash-

es the pavement cold

Cries of the homeless man

howling high notes

Bouncing off skyscrapers that

won’t throw down a coat…

FREE!

Free from verbal battles,

slammed door and self-pity

Free from those politicking in

the city

Free from the red zone as

there’s an infinite gush from

the inner core

Free to be principle-centered,

value driven and proactive to

something more…

© Nordine Beason 2004-2009

Nordine Beason a.k.a “ The Stormwww.thestormlive.com

Fallon Taylor www.myspace.com/datmceepoet

Get Spiked today !

www.spikedconcepts.com

Jaqua, born Kimberly Jaqua Moore, was born October 17,

1982. Born and raised in Greenville, MS, Jaqua found her

love for words at the age of 13. She is the only child of Deadra

Goodrich and Kelvin Moore. Jaqua attained a Bachelors of Arts

degree from Mississippi State University in August of 2007.

Upon graduating, she moved to Memphis, TN where she cur-

rently resides, working for The Commercial Appeal newspaper.

She can be found at various open mic events in the Memphis,

TN area in an effort to “speak life” to the masses.

Excerpt from “Two

Weeks Notice”

….I was taught that

it’s not a woman’s

place

to approach a man.

Even if I did, I really

don’t believe you can

offer the attention

given to your girl.

We exist in two per-

pendicular worlds.

We continuously

cross but could

never be parallel.

If only you could tell

how I believe you

were made to walk

on water.

I’d swim under your

deep end.

Right now I’m just

rowing a boat to the

nearest shore

to dry these ambi-

tions of someday

speaking to you.

I’d rather rest in

the reasonable

distance.

Kimberly “Jaqua” Moore

The concept of spiking is about adding flavor,

excitement, and energy!

At Spiked Concepts, we take art, fashion, and food and spike it

with original, emerging thought. Our concepts are

contemporary, artistic, and slightly rebellious.

Our mission and vision is simply to

inspire and cultivate an appreciation for

uninhibited, emerging talent.

Spoken Magazine 21

the benchwww.atlantabench.com

Photography by D. Dabney

the benchwww.atlantabench.com

One of my favorite books, among

many, is Norman Vincent Peale’s

The Power of Positive Thinking.

In it is a whole chapter dedicated

to teaching how to expect the

best and get it!

You truly are the creator of your

own universe when you begin to

learn the combined uses of your

own mind backed by the power

of your soul. The main principle

behind expecting and getting, is

that faith (belief) moves moun-

tains when accompanied by the

action required, or sometimes it’s

simply the action of “acting as if.”

To demonstrate, I ask that you

look back in your life and

remember the time you were so

enthusiastic about something

and you just knew it was going

to happen, and it did. Do you

remember? Coincidence? I don’t

think so.

In times that it didn’t happen, did

you allow doubt to be present

for any extended period of time?

Think about it. Think about help-

ing your mind to focus on posi-

tive and be willing to take action

when needed – and remember

that sometimes the only action

required is acting as if. Think

about training your mind to

habitually let go of bad feel-

ings and doubt, because these

very well could hinder your end

results. Let your spirit shine

through a mind that knows you

deserve what you want in life.

Everyone is worth time invested

in growth that will aid you in feel-

ing better, doing better, and hav-

ing better. You are worth it! Jack

Canfield, co-author of Chicken

Soup for the Soul, writes in his

book, The Success Principles

that he likes to think that, “The

world is plotting to do me good

today. I can’t wait to see what it

is!” Could the world be plotting

good for you? Of course!

OnOne e ofof my y fafavovoriritete books among To demonstrate I ask that you

Expect the Best and Get It!By Wendy Kay

Health tip:

Blueberries and Acai berries are excellent sources of antioxidants, which reduce free-radicals in your

body. You can get the Acai berry juice at any health food store. Mix an ounce of the juice with about a

cup of orange juice to make it taste a little better.

Soul Food Spot of Sunshine Feel Better The Daily Pearl

Spoken Magazine 24

Just Think About It

By Kayla Sheri Jenkins

Think about when was the last timeHe told you, you were beautiful?

Well,

Let’s talk about the last timeHe took a second just to tell you howyou made him feel.Bet you don’t even know the lasttime

He told you he loved you before youwent to bed.

Ask yourself when was the last timeYou caught him trying to keep it real.

Don’t wait until the last timeYou won’t want to hear the last timeShe says bye-bye.

If you treat her like you need herI guarantee that she will never leaveyou.She’ll be standing right by your side.

See,

Ladies let’s talk about the last timeYou rubbed his back when he said ithurts. -- Mmmhh

Or have you forgot about the lasttime You told him baby I appreciate allthat you give.

Don’t even know the last timeYou didn’t pick an argument.Don’t wait until the last time

You won’t want to hear the last timeWhen he hits you with that goodbye.

If you treat him like you need himI guarantee that he will never leaveyou.

He’ll be standing right by your sideuntil the end of time.Now I know it’s not always pictureperfectAnd you be ready to let it burn -- ohBut think about it you, know you don’t want no one else

There is no such thing as a substitute.

Okay he hurt you; you get to walkingHe says he’s sorry

But frankly you don’t careAbout the he said, what did she sayWhy they always worried about yourbusiness?

Last time you checked the bills didn’tcome in with the last name of the Jones’s addressed on them

Mistakes were madeYou played the game

It’s not too late!!

Don’t wait until the last timeYou won’t want to hear the last time

Don’t say bye-bye.

If you treat them like you need themI guarantee that everything will turnout fine.

Won’t have to look around no truerhappiness could be found.

Think about it Think about itThings won’t always be this way.Just keep on trying, keep on fightingUntil you can finally make them seeYou don’t want this to be the lasttime

Not saying goodbye.You need them like youNeed them now

Like yesterdays restoredThe feeling you can’t ignoreJust think about it before you walk

out that door.

po

etry

Spoken Magazine 25

By Emily Wright

Web of Lies

After gulping down the last

of my Starbucks coffee, I strolled into

the empty conference room. One day

I planned to own my own public rela-

tions company and today was the day

I was going to show the bosses just

what I was made of. I looked out at

the view of Atlanta’s skyline and took

a deep breath. I was ready.

My partner, Jason, had yet to

arrive so I had to go and get the box

of materials that we had put together

last night. I lugged the box back into

the conference room and plopped

it down on the corner of the shiny

mahogany meeting table. I pulled out

one of the big leather chairs, sat down

and went through the materials again

just to make sure that we didn’t leave

anything out.

I glanced up at the clock.

9:40 am. Where is that damn boy?

We had worked until 3 that morning,

but he assured me that he would be

able to get here on time. Liar. Every-

thing was in order so I began to pass

out the thick packets around in front

of each chair.

“Well, hello!” Jason crept up

behind me, but I couldn’t see his face.

He was carrying in the LCD and the

easel. His muscles were flexed and

showed through his perfectly tailored

suit.

“Boy! Where have you been?

It’s 15 ‘til.” I tried to sound upset,

but my caffeine high made my voice

sound unintentionally comical.

“I told you that I would be

here. I’m here. And I’m awake…for

now that is. That’s about all you’re

going to get out of me today.” We

both let out a loud laugh.

We finished setting up the

room and waited on the big bosses

and the client, Andre Parker, to come

in. They all filed in at 10 a.m. on the

dot. One after the other: the CEO,

Mr. Brideman, the COO, Mr. Greene,

VP of PR, Ms. Thomas and then An-

dre and his right hand man, Patrick.

“Good morning, Ms. Novell.

Mr. Graham. We are all looking for-

ward to hearing your ad campaign.”

Mr. Brideman was nicest man I had

ever known.

They all spread out along the

meeting table. Andre sat across from

me. He looked me right in my eyes

and winked. I knew what that meant.

We had started a “relationship” about

5 weeks ago. Completely against the

rules of business, but I couldn’t help

myself.

My parents left me with my

grandparents when I was 5 years old

and I have not seen or heard from

them since. My grandparents did

what they could with what they had.

I had what I needed, but not always

what I wanted. I always watched the

rich and famous parade across my

TV screen and that’s what I wanted

in my life. I worked my way through

college and with the encouragement

of my grandparents, I landed an

internship with the most sought after

PR firm in LA and now I am a part

of their newly opened Atlanta office

working with their biggest client.

When I first met Andre, I was

smitten with him. He was handsome,

successful and loved the finer things

in life. He was the owner of the hot-

test urban fashion and music labels in

Atlanta. He was everything I wanted

in a man and I was determined to get

close to him.

“Good morning, Mr. Bride-

man, Mr. Greene, Ms. Thomas.” I

looked right at Andre and Patrick.

“Good morning, Mr. Parker, Mr.

Mitchell.” I smiled a little too hard

I suppose because Jason nudged me

a little and I caught myself staring

at Andre. “Mr. Graham and myself

hope that you all like what you see

and please feel free to offer any in-

put.”

There was a knock on the

door. “Excuse me, Ms. Novell.”

Dayna, my assistant stuck her head

in the door. “There is a Ms. Seline

Parker here. She says she is sup-

posed to be apart of this meeting.”

“Oh yes, please. Let her

in.” Seline was Andre’s soon to be

ex-wife. She still, however, was at-

tached to his fashion label so she had

to be included on everything… much

to my dismay.

She sauntered into the room

wearing huge dark glasses. She was

tall and beautiful – my worst night-

mare. Andre stood up and pulled a

seat out for her next to him. Why

did she have to sit next to him? He

leaned over and gave her a kiss on

the cheek. She blushed. I couldn’t

understand why he was being so nice

to a woman that he told me repeat-

edly that he couldn’t stand. He said

that she was always nagging and that

she was only in it for the money. I

must admit, I was in it for the money

and the perks, but I was beginning to

develop some real feelings for this

guy. Jealousy was one of them.

Spoken Magazine 27

“Ok. Well, now that we are all here.”

I looked over at Jason, whose eyes

were getting smaller by the second.

“Jason?”

“Mmmh, huh, yes.” He sat

straight up and focused on me.

“Let’s begin.”

As I presented Dre’s ad

campaign that I must say was sheer

genius, I couldn’t help but notice the

interaction between Seline and Dre.

They kept having sidebar conversa-

tions. With each few words, she

would giggle and blush. He looked at

her in a way that was usually reserved

for me. I tried to read his lips. I

wanted so much to know what he was

saying to her.

At the end of our presentation,

Jason and I received a resounding

ovation. “Thank you very much for

all of your attention. Do you have

any questions or concerns for us?” I

still had my eyes locked on Dre. I

was becoming increasingly transpar-

ent.

“Um, yes. When do you think

we can get this campaign rolling,”

Dre asked, with his eyes still fixed on

Seline.

“As I said during the presenta-

tion, we hope to kick off during Super

Bowl. A commercial and promotional

show during this time will surely

draw in the age demographic that we

are targeting.” Now I was getting

pissed. He hadn’t heard a word that I

had said.

“When should we start shoot-

ing the commercial,” Seline chimed

in.

I looked at Jason, who was

looking at me. We both shook our

heads at the same time. They really

hadn’t heard a word I said. “Again,

as I said during the presentation, we

should begin casting and shooting

within the next few weeks to make

sure the commercial is completed,

pitched, presented and paid for in

time for Super Bowl.” I pulled out

my chair sat down. I was looking

right at Dre, but he only glanced at

me. Jason touched my shoulder. He

had a look in his eyes that non-ver-

bally said pay attention. Jason knew

what was going on between Dre and

me. He tried to talk me out of it, but

I couldn’t help myself. I figured that

by the time anyone figured out what

was going on, I would be well on my

way to being the new Ms. Parker.

That is if I could get the old Ms. Park-

er to get the hell out of the way.

“Well, Mr. & Mrs. Parker,

was that to your liking,” Mr. Greene

asked.

“Yes it was,” they said in

unison. They laughed at themselves.

It was ridiculously trite. I rolled my

eyes at them. I twirled around in the

big leather chair and stared at the

blue box that was shimmering on the

plastic screen behind me.

“Mr. Graham, Ms. Novell. Great

work. We look forward to the kick

off. I will be in touch.” Mr. Bride-

man stood up and smoothed his dark

suit. Mr. Greene and Ms. Thomas

followed him out of the confer-

ence room. They all shook Dre and

Seline’s hands on the way out. Andre

helped Seline by offering his hand for

her to pull herself up by. He leaned in

and whispered something to Patrick.

Patrick looked up at me and then

again at Dre. He nodded his head.

“Seline, go ahead with Patrick. I

want to speak to my new PR team

again about a few things. I’ll meet

you at the car.” She cut her eyes at

me, nodded and followed Patrick out

of the office.

Jason and I started to clean up the

conference room. Jason unhooked

the LCD, broke down the easel and

packed up the laptop. I was gathering

up all the scrap papers and the pack-

ets that were left behind. Dre walked

up beside me. “Can I talk to you for a

second,” he whispered.

“Uh, sure. What’s up?” I was pissed

at him and I wanted him to know it. I

knew that we were not supposed to be

involved because of business reasons,

but I still didn’t appreciate his interac-

tion with Seline. I was confused and

I wanted him to explain himself, but

I knew that this was not the time or

place. I was just going to let him say

what ever it was that he had to say

and I was going to cuss him out later.

“Jason? Could I talk to Kaiyah

alone?” He said in a tone that was

meant to be statement and not a re-

quest.

Jason shot him a cold look. Jason

didn’t like what we were doing and he

didn’t like how he thought Dre was

using me. But I never told Jason that

we were actually using each other,

but somewhere during the dinners and

the gifts and sex, I actually developed

feelings for this man. I wasn’t sure if

he felt the same, but he sure acted like

it. Jason just looked at me and shook

his head and walked out.

Spoken Magazine 28

“What’s up, Dre?” I placed my hand

on my hip and looked up at him.

“What’s wrong with you? You got

attitude?” He smirked. He closed the

door and walked over to me.

“No, I don’t have attitude.” I mim-

icked his voice. “I’m just a little

confused. What was all that with

Seline?”

“What was all what?” He put his

hand on my shoulder and tried to lean

in for a kiss.

I quickly pulled away. “All that

lovey-dovey mess. All the giggles

and blushing and shit?” I had a bad

habit of waving my hands when I got

upset.

“I know you are not jealous.” He

leaned in again.

“I didn’t say all that.” I pulled away

again.

“You don’t have to say it, Kai. It’s all

over your face. It’s in your voice.”

“Whatever. I just don’t like being put

in that position.”

“What position? You knew what it

was before we started all this. You

knew about Seline. Stop acting brand

new.”

“I’m not acting ‘brand new’ and yes,

I knew about her before hand, but

you told me that you were getting a

divorce.” I walked around him.

“Yeah, well…” He looked down to-

ward the ground.

“Well what?” I stopped in my tracks.

My heart was in my throat.

“We decided that we don’t need to

rush into anything.” He walked up

behind me.

“What do you mean by that?” I could

feel the tears swelling up in my eyes.

I turned to face him. He looked down

at me. I could feel his breath on my

forehead.

“We decided that-” Just as he was

about to say it, Seline pushed

open the door. It was too late. We

couldn’t back away from each other

fast enough. I dropped my head. I

couldn’t look at her.

“What’s going on here?” She looked

very upset.

“Nothing. I thought I told you to wait

at the car?” Dre walked over to her.

“I had something I wanted to ask Ms.

Novell, but I think I need to be asking

you.”

“Ask me what?” He was getting ir-

ritated.

“What’s going on here?”

“Nothing, Seline. I just told you.

Now go wait outside. I’ll be out there

in a second.”

“I’m not a dog or Patrick, Andre. You

don’t tell me what to do,” she yelled.

Then she looked at me. “Maybe I

ought to ask her then.” She started

walking toward me. “You fucking

him?”

She took me by surprise with her

bluntness. I couldn’t answer. My

tongue was frozen by guilt and shock.

I could see that a crowd was forming

on the other side of the door.

“Seline. Take your ass outside.” Dre

grabbed her by her arm. She yanked

away. She kept walking toward me.

“You fucking him? Answer me.”

“I-I-” I couldn’t say a word.

“Did he tell you that I was pregnant?”

“What?” That defrosted my tongue.

My heart was now in my stomach. I

could see Jason at the door now. He

dropped his head and pulled the door

closed.

“Yeah, I’m pregnant.” She shot a

look at Dre. “I can’t believe you. 2

months ago you begged and pleaded

for me to come back to you. You

promised me that you were going to

change. Damn you, Dre.” Her eyes

were welling up.

“Seline.” He tried to grab her again.

“Get off me.” She was still looking at

me. “So what did he tell you?”

“He told me that y’all were getting a

divorce.”

“We were. That is until he came to

New York and asked me to come

back.”

“What in the hell are you trying to

pull here, Dre?” I looked at him. I

had made a complete fool of myself.

My plan had backfired.

Seline ran out of the door, Dre

ran after her and I just sat there in the

conference room alone, heartbroken,

confused and used. How could I have

been so stupid?

Strolling on the streets of New York City’s fashionavenue and taking brunch in some of the mostfashion forward venues of the city, it’s not hard tonotice some of the season’s most trendy looks.Some of my favorites for summer ‘09 are dolmansleeve tunic dresses that are gently belted andpaired with platform pumps. This look offers versatilityas it wears easy in the day, and can be just as fierce for a night out with your entourage.

Sampling from the 80’s, ladies are also inoversized off the shoulder tees, miniskirts pairedwith tights, and skinny elastic head bands thattame the tresses on those days when you justwant to pull your hair back into a chignon andgo. However, what is most interesting is the chic Grecian/ Roman influence of the “Gladiator Sandals”with multi straps at the ankle and also seen goingas far as straps just under the knee.

To push the envelope even more, designer’s like Yves Saint Laurent and Philip Lim offer bohemian flair withharem pants, free flowing poetic frocks, and brilliantcolors. If these pieces are a bit too edgy forthe “Rising Diva”, try just adding panache to yourlook by accessorizing with oversized shades (ala Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast At Tiffany’s), lightweight scarves (in fabrications like linen, knit jersey,and pashmina) for chilly summer nights, ordelectable necklaces and bangle bracelets.

As with anything, a true songstress must staytrue to her individual persona because everydiva knows making a proper play for the spotlighttakes talent, practice, and an eye catching look.So, use some of these ideas to add that extratouch to your already fabulous style. Stay chic!

Take your look to the next level by adding complementing accessories. Try this necklace fit

for a queen. Vera Wang’s violet motorcycle chain necklace taken from her

Spring/Summer ‘09 RTW Collection.

Rising Diva

Spoken Magazine 29

Parron A. EdwardsContributing Writer, Fashion & Style

bilal

Bilal

jaafar

eric

roberson

N’dambi , Bilal, and eric roberson at

the foreign exchange cafe (atl)

N’Dambi

photograpy by brian dp hawkins

Jaafar at sugar hill

One intrinsic quality of human be-

ings is to make our possessions an

extension of who we are. This is often

realized in the type of car we own, or

where we live. Our possessions be-

come a symbol of status and achieve-

ment. When it comes to the homes

in which we reside, size and location

alone are not enough to complete this

extended representation of ourselves.

There is no better tool than your home

to be utilized as an outward expression

of who you are or what you hope to

convey to others. Whether your home

is used for casual entertainment, or

your personal slice of heaven, there are

some key factors that must be adhered

to when crafting your homes décor into

a work of art.

To begin sculpting your home environ-

ment, first start with the end in mind.

You need to conceptualize your ideal

space, and identify your style. This

first step can be completed by simply

composing a scrapbook of things you

like. These items can consist of per-

sonal photos, images from magazines

(furnishings, fabric, fashion & lifestyle

images), and color samples. Gathering

these images and samples will aid in

painting a broader picture of what ap-

peals to you most.

After you have identified your style the

next area to focus on is organization.

Organization of your space encompass-

es several other components. Layout

(the plan) and function (the purpose),

are the primary focuses with consider-

ation to organization.

The proper plan should include the

placement of objects in a room. Rooms

should be laid out in a manner that best

highlights that particular space. There

is nothing better to highlight a space

than a focal point. Some focal points

are inherit and obvious in a homes

architecture (a fireplace is the most

obvious in any room) ,and others will

have to be identified and created by the

home owner (when no obvious focal

point is present, simply choose a wall

that has some interest or choose one

that you can make interesting).

To assist with the rooms organiza-

tion, the plan should also be barrier

free. The space should be laid out in

a manner that circulation within that

space is uninterrupted and natural. Try

to avoid furniture placement that either

physically or visually restricts an entry

or traffic path. Navigating through

your space shouldn’t feel like walking

through a labyrinth.

With consideration to function, iden-

tify the purpose of your room. Is the

room for work, leisure, or entertaining?

Furthermore, identify the purpose of

objects in your room. Are they func-

tional, aesthetic, or both? Your strictly

utilitarian pieces should still accent the

overall look and feel of the room. Hav-

ing aesthetic pieces in a room provides

something to capture the occupants

attention. Your functional items in the

room (if consistent with the style of the

room), will provide attractive storage

options to keep the space organized

and clutter free.

Balance is the final element for con-

verting your home into a living work

of art. A well balanced home is one

that promotes a feeling of harmony.

Balance in a room is achieved through

scale, symmetry, and color.

Take heed to the size of the space

you are designing . The furnishings

placed in that room should be pro-

portionate to the size of the room.

Over-sized items in a small room

will make it feel even smaller. In

a large room, furniture that is too

small will become dwarfed and

seem out of place.

When considering symmetry,

a room can be balanced sym-

metrically or asymmetrically.

When deciding which method

of symmetry should be ap-

plied to the space you’re in,

you should first consider the

rooms styling.

Begin by asking yourself

is your room formal or

casual? Then follow-up

by asking whether your

room is traditional or

contemporary? If the

styling of your home

is more formal and

traditional, you will

definitely want to

stick to keeping

elements in the

room symmetri-

cally balanced.

If your styling

leans in the

THE ART WE LIVE IN

A Foundation for a Balanced Interior

By Derico D. Dabney

Spoken Magazine 32

direction of casual and / or contempo-

rary, you may explore some methods of

asymmetrical balance.

Symmetrical balance is achieved

through defining a midpoint in a room

or along a wall, and making sure ele-

ments that are represented on one side

of the wall or room, are represented

on the other. Asymmetrical balance in-

volves an exploration of visual weight

or depth. Using asymmetry, a room or

wall will rarely, if ever, have a defining

midpoint. The objects across a room or

along a wall will have the appearance

of being equally distributed throughout

the space.

Color is that element that frightens

most. You shouldn’t fear the use of

color as you are completing your

composition, but you should respect it.

The lack of color or the overzeal-

ous use of color can have

equally disastrous

affects on

your

homes interior. Color is essential to set-

ting the mood of a room. Color is the

one element that has the solitary power

to be welcoming to the rooms inhabit-

ants, or usher them right out the door.

Understanding the basic psychology

of color will aid you in the proper use

of color. You have to know that cer-

tain colors invoke specific moods or

emotions. Warm colors tend to be more

inviting; cool colors tend to invoke

a feeling of relaxation and serenity;

while vibrant colors can tend to in-

crease ones heart rate, as they promote

excitement, and a need for urgency;

and earth tones, typically warm in

nature, make you feel more grounded.

When experimenting with color,

and color combinations, it

is important to know

which colors

are

complementary and which are con-

trasting. Complementary colors create

an even and consistent feel throughout

the space, while contrasting colors cre-

ate drama and interest in a room.

These three balancing elements alone

will not create a harmonious environ-

ment, but coupled with the previously

discussed elements, should have you

well on your way to that artsy home of

your dreams.

As we all know, fashion trends change ev-

ery year. Some may find it inappropriate but,

it is somehow important for us to know the

latest trends in order for us to look good and

updated with the changing times. But what

are the latest clothing trends for men? How

can men style themselves in a way that would

suit their masculine image for this year?

This year, suits are starting to gain popular-

ity and dominance in the city streets. Suits

that are mostly made of sharp silk and

pants with Malaysian, Indian, and Balinese

styles are in. Also start considering some

unstructured jackets, cropped style pants,

and loose drawstrings to give you that sleek

look. If you are fond of wearing jeans for

casual occasions, then brown is the best

color for the old-time blue jeans this year.

Though there are lots of choices for suits

to consider this year, you can narrow down

your search into several types. Skinny boy fits

are now more kind of like a thing of the past.

The classical look such as the English style

is now the more appropriate style for suits.

In such style, you will have a suit that has

broad shoulders, slim waist, and slim trou-

sers. If you are still interested for suits that will

help you showcase your masculine look, then

this style might just be the perfect suit for you.

This is considered to be the perfect fusion of

classic looks, classic tailoring and modern

masculinity. Moreover, double breasted suits

are also popular to wear these days. What’s

good in this suit is that it can still survive un-

til 2010. The slim look of this suit type would

be a much better choice to make this year.

Other than that, three piece suits are starting

to make a huge come back this year. Subtle

but classic. That is what this suit is all about.

If you want to look simple but still stand out,

v-neck T-shirts are going extreme. Either

in a cardigan or just an everyday shirt, v-

necks are now slowly dominating the trend

for this year. Other than v-necks, dark col-

ored shirts and pants are going to make you

look good this year along with different col-

ored blazers and jackets. And as for prints,

large ones are definitely going to make you

out of style. Smaller prints are much bet-

ter to wear and would make you look slim-

mer. To make it a lot better, leather jackets

are the best to pair with these printed shirts.

Courtesy of sperrytopsider.com

As for the shoes, going for anything un-

der the sun is a definite no-no. Deck shoes

are more appropriate to wear this year.

Even just for leisure moments, deck shoes

can’t go wrong in making you look smart and

comfortable at the same time. This type of

shoes also has a lot of colors and styles to

choose from so it wouldn’t be too hard for you

to land with a particular style to best match

your shirts and pants.

2009 Best Tips on Men’s

ClothingBy Brandon Dove

Recession or not, a girl needs

decent clothes. What are the must

haves this season every woman

should own?

There are the very trendy clothes that

may no longer be relevant next year.

With the economy as it is, you might

want to give those a pass.

Treat your wardrobe as an invest-

ment. What are the gorgeous pieces

that can take you from this season

through many Springs and Summers

to come?

Dynasty style shoulder pads may be

back but rather than buy one of the

current heavily padded jackets or tops

that would probably be out of fashion

this year. If you must have that look, go

dig up some old clothes that do have

huge shoulder pads. Unpick them and

remove them from these clothes and

sew them into your existing jackets

to get that look. Then when the fad is

over, remove the shoulder pads.

Here’s what you should get instead.

1. Mini Dress

One hot trend that will never truly die

out is the mini dress. You see that at

every collection this year. Dresses

are either minis that end mid thigh,

or long gowns for the evening. A

mini dress need not be slutty. Don’t

bare cleavage and plenty of leg at

the same time. Flaunt one, cover the

other. This season, arms, legs and

shoulders are the erogenous zones.

What’s hot? Toga dresses that show

off one shoulder, halter dresses and

bustier tops that show off both shoul-

ders or the asymmetrical dress. You

know the new look where the dress

has one long sleeve but the neckline

slants down beneath the other arm to

bare the other shoulder. These are the

mini dresses to get this season, which

you can still wear for many summers

to come.

2. White Dress.

This is a summer staple. White looks

great in the hot sun. A white dress

makes a woman stand out beautifully,

when surrounded by green grass and

flowers in the park or the sand and

sea at the beach. This season offers

a myriad of white dresses, from mini

dresses to long gowns. From girlish

cotton dresses to the sexy mini dress-

es, to silky, floaty dresses that make

you look ethereal. Pick one that suits

your personality.

3. Strappy Shoes High heel shoes make an amazing

difference to the way a woman looks.

This season strappy heels abound.

Those with straps that wrap around

the ankle are absolutely gorgeous.

If heels aren’t for you, there are flats

with straps that wrap around your an-

kle too. Consider getting those if you

don’t want a Prada fall.

4. Silk Pants Looks like the pajama pants trend

isn’t going to die out. Silky pants are

here to stay. Get yourself a pair of

silk pants. These should drape your

legs. Pick them in a neutral shade.

Preferably in a color that matches a

silk jacket so that you can wear them

to work as well as for play. Silk pants

in neutrals like gray, black, nude or

white, this season’s colors, go with

everything and you can wear them

year after year.

5. Halters Halter tops and halter dresses are the

big thing this season. These are seen

everywhere. The halter could be with

cut in shoulders, fully covered behind,

with a bare back or cross straps be-

hind. Either way, show off your arms

and shoulders this season by wearing

halters. (Get them toned if you must

but flaunt them once you can). There

are so many gorgeous halters this

season so stock up on them because

these are timeless.

More fashion tips from

http://www.cheap-designer-clothing.net

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/

?expert=Janice_Wee

Top 5 Fashion Must Haves For Spring-

Summer 2009 - A Recessionistica’s

Guide

By Janice Wee

Octane Coffee Bar and Lounge

1009 B Marietta Street, NW

Atlanta, GA 30318

404.815.9886

Urban Grind

962 Marietta St.

Atlanta, GA 30318

Phone: 404-724-0605

myspace.com/urbangrind

Joe’s (East Atlanta)

510 Flat Shoals avenue SE

Atlanta GA 30316

Phone: 404 521-1122

e2 coffee house

749 Moreland Avenue, Suite 101A

Atlanta, GA 30316

404.622.8104

info@e2coffeehouse.com

Tilt Coffee Shop

274 Walker St. SW

Atlanta, GA 30313

Phone: 404.688.4284

Email: info@tiltroom.com

Aurora Coffee

In the heart of Little Five Points

468 Moreland Avenue

Atlanta, GA 30307

404-523-6856

Danneman’s Coffee

In the Old 4th Ward

466 Edgewood Avenue

Atlanta, GA 30312

(404) 380-1393

www.dannemans.com

Java Lords Coffee House & Bar

Little Five Points

1105 Euclid Avenue NE,

Atlanta, GA 30307

(404) 477-0921

Java Monkey

205 E Ponce De Leon Ave,

Decatur, GA

(404) 378-1852

Dancing Goats Coffee Bar

419 W. Ponce de Leon Avenue

Decatur, GA 30030

(404) 687-1100

Lattetude Coffee Lounge & Bistro

2899 N Decatur Rd.

Decatur, GA 30033

(404) 298-8787

Kavarna

707 E Lake Dr.

Decatur, GA 30030

(404) 371-1113

ww.instantkavarna.com

Mocha Match

627 E College Ave # F,

Decatur, GA 30030

(404) 377-7788

Method Coffee Bar and Tea Lounge

Emory Village

1593 N Decatur Rd. NE

Atlanta, GA 30307

(404) 549-8942

www.methodcoffeebar.com

theCoffee Connoisseur

Spoken Magazine 36

www.wmaty.com

2221 Peachtree Rd. NE / Atlanta ,, GA 30309 / 404.603.5282