4.30.2008

IN THE PRESENT & NEWS BITS

Use down time to good advantage.
(take a mini vacay, go get cultured at the local museum, read a book, watch a good movie.)

"The affairs of the world will go on forever. Do not delay the practice of meditation."
-- Milarepa

In our busy schedules, we can often complain that we don’t have time to meditate. Sometimes all it takes is 1 minute to just zone inward. But if we are sincere in our desire to go inside, we can create our own moments of stillness in the midst of our activity.

Stopped at a traffic light? Do some deep breathing. Waiting in line at the bank or store? Repeat an uplifting word such as ‘love’ or ‘peace.’ Riding the train to and from work? Value these times as an opportunity to close your eyes and go within or to say a little prayer.

"Wherever you go in the midst of movement and activity, carry your stillness within you. Then the chaotic movement around you will never overshadow your access to the reservoir of creativity, the field of pure potentiality."

NEWS BITS

Barack Obama sends Rev. Wright to the left.

Miley Cyrus regrets shooting seminude for Vanity Fair. (I think the photos weren’t that risqué for all the media scrutiny they are receiving. Plus, she shot with legendary Annie, so there's no bad intentions behind the shots.)

Coffin Couches: To die for leather tufted couches.

Michael Kors and Cinema Society hosts screening of Iron Man.

Lil Mama gets loose in today’s Music section of the NYT.

4.28.2008

MSR FUNNIES

I just saw this clip and was cracking up on Obama getting down with Ellen. This man got moves!

IN THE PRESENT & NEWS BITS

4/28/2008

In The Present

What are your priorities today?

"Most people are so busy knocking themselves out trying to do everything they think they should do, they never get around to do what they want to do."

-Kathleen Winsor

When we clearly set an intention, our conscious and subconscious minds mobilize to help us meet that intention. At the start of each day, thoroughly review what commitments you have made to others for the day, and decide what commitment(s) you will make for yourself.

What can you do today that will move you one step closer to your personal goals? Own your power to choose to meet your own needs. After all, we are much better able to help others when our own needs are met. And at the end of the day, when you've honoured your commitment to yourself, acknowledge your success.

"If you want to make good use of your time, you've got to know what's most important and then give it all you've got."

NEWS BITS

Pastor Jeremiah Wright Jr. speaks up after political controversy.

Thousands poured out to honor the life of Staff Sgt. Matt Maupin.

PRINCE rocks Coachella out!

Bags: 12 Guy satchels that are Springy and cool!

The single father who is raising his kids sans wife. The single fathers are often left out so a round of applauds to all of you out there doing the hardest job. I salute you.

4.27.2008

MSR: THIS WEEK IN STYLE


Russell Simmons and his always aglow and style-ready Porscha Coleman.



Rewatching "The Great Debaters" recently reminded me when Denzel shot for Men's Vogue.


Speaking of VOGUE--check the vintage cover I found with Puff and Naomi Campbell.

Usher shows the men how a tailored SUIT is suppose to fit!

I dig these two as a pair. Also admire the casual styling.

Terrence gives the wide angle stance to showcase his three-piece ensemble.

Side note: Fergie is getting these fashion mag covers everytime we blink.
I remember previewing this dramatic cobalt blue frock and studded belt in the Burberry look book. I feel this shot will generate orders for both items.

Luda, simply FIYAH!

Robert Downey Jr. in lax and joyful mode at the Ironman premiere all while looking dapper.

SEAN BELL REFLECTIONS


I’m confident you’re all familiar with the heavy-publicized Sean Bell case. I heard the NOT GUILTY verdict and my spirits immediately sicken—like everyone else—from the injustice being received. What does this unfairness proves? Cops can emit 50, not 2, but 50 shots at three unarmed men and walk scotch free. Think about that for a second.

My mind can’t grapple the recent results brought forth, but what I do know for sure is justice is definitely going to prevail—without any violence, uproars, or rebellious retaliations. Our peaceful non-violence actions only mirror backs the police force’s inequalities and wrongful actions.

Recently, Kevin Powell (a man I respect), who you might remember from Real World (1st season) and ex-writer for VIBE magazine, sent me a stirring, thought-stimulating, profile he wrote after hearing the verdict. I thought it was only right to share it with the MSR readers.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Sean Bell Tragedy
By Kevin Powell

April 25, 2008

I am sick to my stomach and I really do not know what to say right this second. My cell and office phones have been blowing up all day, and people have been emailing me nonstop, to let me know that Detectives Michael Oliver, Gescard Isnora, and Marc Cooper, the three New York City police officers accused of shooting 50 times and murdering Sean Bell, were found not guilty on all counts: Oliver, who fired 31 times and reloaded once, and Isnora, who fired 11 times, had been charged with manslaughter, felony assault and reckless endangerment. They faced up to 25 years in prison if convicted on all charges. Cooper, who fired four times, faced up to a year in jail if convicted of reckless endangerment.
And that’s it: Sean Bell, a mere 23 years of age, out partying the morning before the wedding to the mother of his two small children, dead, gone, forever. Sean Bell and his two friends, Trent Benefield and Joseph Guzman, all unarmed, ambushed by New York’s finest. His last day, November 25, 2006, is marked as another tragic one in New York City history. How many more? I once heard in a protest song. How many more?

But I knew this verdict was coming. I have lived in New York City for nearly two decades and, before that, worked as a news reporter for several publications throughout the city’s five boroughs, and I cannot begin to tell you how many cases of police brutality and police misconduct I covered or witnessed, more often than not a person of color on the receiving end: Eleanor Bumpurs. Michael Stewart…Amadou Diallo…Sean Bell.

This is not to suggest that all police officers are trigger-happy and inhumane, because I do not believe that. They have a difficult and important job, and many of them do that job well, and maintain outstanding relationships with our communities. I know officers like that. But what I am saying is that New York, America, this society as a whole, still views the lives of Black people, of Latino people, of people of color, of women, of poor or working-class people, as less than valuable. It does not matter that two of the three officers charged in the Sean Bell case were officers of color and one White. What matters is the mindset of racism that permeates the New York Police Department, and far too many police departments across America. Shooting in self-defense is one thing, but it is never okay to shoot first and ask questions later, not even if a police officer “feels” threatened, not even if the source of that “feeling” is a Black or Latino person.

That is a twisted logic deeply rooted in the America social fabric, dating back to the founding fathers and their crazy calculations about slaves being three-fifths of a human being. And in spite of Barack Obama, Oprah Winfrey, Tiger Woods, and other successful Black individuals, by and large the masses of Black people, and Latino people, are perpetually viewed through this lens of not being quite human. William Kristol of the New York Times wrote what I felt was an incredibly ignorant and myopic March 24th column implying, strongly, that we should not have conversations about race in America, that such talk was dated. This piece was in response to Barack Obama’s now famous meditation on race. But Kristol, like many in denial, had this to say: “The last thing we need now is a heated national conversation about race… Racial progress has in fact continued in America. A new national conversation about race isn’t necessary to end what Obama calls the ‘racial stalemate we’ve been stuck in for years’— because we’re not stuck in such a stalemate... This is all for the best. With respect to having a national conversation on race, my recommendation is: Let’s not, and say we did.” Well, Mr. Kristol, what, precisely, do you think Black New Yorkers are feeling this very moment as we absorb the Sean Bell verdict? Or do our thoughts, our feelings, our wounds, not matter?

“Black male lives are meaningless in America,” a female friend just texted me, and what can I say to that? Who’s going to help Nicole Paultre Bell, Sean Bell’s grieving fiancé, explain to their two young daughters that the men who killed their daddy are not going to be punished?

I remember that November 2006 day so vividly, when word spread of the Sean Bell killing. And I remember the hastily assembled meetings by New York City’s de facto Black leadership—the ministers, the elected officials, the grassroots activists—at Local 1199 in midtown Manhattan where it was stated, with great earnestness and finality, that after all these years, we were going to put together a comprehensive response to police brutality and misconduct. There were to be three levels of response: governmentally (local, state, and federal bills were going to be proposed, and task forces recommended); systemically within the police department (comprehensive proposals were called for to challenge police practices or to enforce ones already in place); and via the United States Justice Department, since any form of police brutality or misconduct is a violation of basic American civil rights. We met for a few months after the Sean Bell murder, divided into committees, then the entire thing died—again. There was a lot of research done, many hearings that were transcribed, much talk of a united front, then nothing, not even an email to say the plan was no longer being planned.

Anyhow, in the interim I spent a great deal of time, more time than I’ve spent in my entire New York life, in Queens, mainly in Jamaica, Queens, getting to know Sean Bell’s family. I was particularly struck by Sean Bell’s mother, Valerie Bell, and his father, William Bell. Two very decent and well-intentioned working-class New Yorkers, who had raised their children the best they could, who were now, suddenly, activists thrust into a spotlight they had never sought. The parents are what we the Black community calls “God-fearing, church-going folk.” Indeed, what was so incredible was how much Mr. and Mrs. Bell believed in and referenced God. But that is our sojourn in America: when everything else fails us, we still have the Lord. And there they were, holding a 50-day vigil directly across from the 103rd precinct, on 168th Street, right off Jamaica Avenue and 91st Avenuein Jamaica, Queens, in the dead-cold winter air. They and their family members and close friends taking turns monitoring the makeshift altar of candles, cards, and photos. And I remember how we had to shame local leaders a few times into supporting Mr. and Mrs. Bell with donations of money, food, or other material needs. While much of the media and support flocked to Nicole Paultre Bell, Sean Bell’s fiancé, and the sexiness of her being represented by the Reverend Al Sharpton and his lawyer pals Sanford Rubenstein and Michael Hardy, the media did not pay much attention to Sean Bell’s parents and their kinfolk at all.

What was especially striking was the fact that Mrs. Bell got up every single morning, made her way to the vigil area, then to work in a local hospital all day, then to her church every single evening. She reminded me so much of my own mother, of any Black mother in America who has had to be the backbone of the family, often sacrificing her own health, her own wants and needs, her own hurt and pain, to be there for others in their time of need.

Mrs. Bell always told me that she truly believed justice would be done in this case. She really did. I never had the heart to tell her that it is rare for a police officer to be found guilty of murdering a civilian, no matter how glaring the evidence. Nor did I have the heart to tell Mrs. Bell that the media and the defense would seek to destroy her son’s image and reputation, that Sean Bell would be reduced to a thug, as an unsavory character, to somehow justify the police shooting. Nor did I have the heart to tell Mrs. Bell that this pain of losing her son would be with her the remainder of her life. I did not share my suspicion that the parade of Black leaders, Black protests, media hype—all of it—was all part of someone’s carefully concocted script, brushed off and brought to the parade every single time a case like this occurred. I have seen it before, and as long as we live in a city, a nation, that does not value all people as human, there will be more Sean Bells.

“I am Sean Bell,” many of us chanted in the days and weeks immediately following his death. Yet very few of us showed up to the hearings after, and even fewer had the courage to question the vision, or lack thereof, of our own Black leadership who accomplished, ultimately, little to nothing at all. And very few of us realized that the powers-that-be in New York City have come to anticipate our reactions to matters like the Sean Bell tragedy: we get upset and become very emotional; we scream “No Justice! No Peace!”; we march, rally, and protest; we call the police and mayor all kinds of names and demand their resignations; we vow that this killing will be the last; and we will wait until the next tragedy hits, then this whole horrible cycle begins anew.

Plain and simple, racism creates abusive relationships. It does not matter if the perpetrator is a White sister or brother, or a person of color, because the most vulnerable in our society feel the heat of it. Real talk: this tragedy would have never gone down on the Upper Eastside of Manhattan or in Brooklyn Heights. I am not just speaking about the judge’s decision, but the police officer’s actions. Those shots would have never been fired at unarmed White people sitting in a car. Until we understand that racism is not just about who pulled the trigger in a police misconduct case, but is also about the geography of racism, and the psychology of racism, we are forever stuck having the same endless dialogue with no solution in sight.

And until America recognizes the civil and human rights of all its citizens, systemic racism and police misconduct, joined at the hip, will never end. That is, until White sisters and brothers realize they, too, are Sean Bell, this will never end. Save for a few committed souls, most White folks sit on the sidelines (as many did when we marched down Fifth Avenue in protest of Sean Bell’s murder in December 2006), feel empathy, but fail to grasp that our struggle for justice is their struggle for justice. They, alas, are Sean Bell, and Amadou Diallo, and all those anonymous Black and Brown heads and bodies who’ve been victimized, whether they want to accept that reality or not. And the reality is that until police officers are forced to live in the communities they police, forced to learn the language, the culture, the mores of the communities they police, forced to change how they handle undercover assignments, this systemic racism, this police misconduct, will never end. And until Black and Latino people, the two communities most likely to suffer at the hands of police brutality and misconduct, refuse to accept the half-baked leadership we’ve been given for nearly forty years now, and start to question what is really going on behind the scenes with the handshakes, the eyewinks, the head nods, and the backroom deals at the expense of our lives, this systemic racism, this police misconduct, these kinds of miscarriages of justice, will never end.

Our current leadership needs us to believe all we can ever be are victims, doomed to one recurring tragedy or another. It keeps these leaders gainfully employed, and it keeps us feeling completely helpless and powerless. Well, I am not helpless nor powerless, and neither are you. To prevent Sean Bell’s memory from fading like dust into the air, the question is put to you, now: What are you going to do to change this picture once and for all? Mayor Bloomberg said this in a statement:

"There are no winners in a trial like this. An innocent man lost his life, a bride lost her groom, two daughters lost their father, and a mother and a father lost their son. No verdict could ever end the grief that those who knew and loved Sean Bell suffer."

No, the grief will never end, not for Sean Bell’s parents and family, for his fiancé and children. But Mayor Bloomberg, you, me, we the people, can step up our games, make a commitment to real social justice in our city, in our nation, and, for once, penalize people, including police officers, who just randomly blow away lives. Sean Bell is never coming back, but we are here, and the biggest tragedy will be if we keep going about our lives, as if this never happened in the first place.

And a long as we have leadership, White leadership and Black leadership, mainstream leadership and grassroots leadership, that can do nothing more than exacerbate folks’ very natural emotions in a tragedy like this, we will never progress as a human race. Instead a true leader needs to harness those emotions and turn them into action, as Dr. King did, as Gandhi did. In the absence of such action, so many of us, especially us Black and Latino males, will continue to have a very nervous relationship with the police, even the police of color, for fear that any of one of us could be the next Sean Bell.

4.24.2008

NEWS BITS & IN THE PRESENT

4/24/2008

In the Present

BIG THINKING PRECEDES BIG ACHIEVEMENT

High achievement always takes place
in the framework of high expectation.
You'll always hit what you aim for in the long run.
So why not aim high?

Have the courage to follow your dreams. It's the first step towards attaining your destiny.

If you can dream it, you can do it. It's just that simpleeeeee!

If you don't have a dream, how are you going to make it come true?

In order to succeed beyond your wildest expectations, you need some wild expectations.

NEWS BITS

LVMH set to buy luxury watchmaker Hublot.

Spring Men’s fashion has an über clash.

LA Times art critic James Kalms spills the review of Jeff Koons’ opening at MOMA.

FHM: Megan Fox acclaimed the world’s best sizzling woman.

The violence and political confusion still persist in Zimbabwe.





4.23.2008

SLIDE INTO SOME FRESH SANDALS THIS SEASON


Vintage: Mr. MSR in Sandals

With soaring temps in NYC, and steady nice weather elsewhere it only warrants this entry. A lot of men I know and hear say “I just can’t wear sandals, but I can do sporty flip-flops.” Aren't you puzzled by such contradictory? I sure am when that line chimes. So to help those sandals perplex Gents out there I went to market. Hopefully these sporty-meets-style sandals might work in your favor. And you’ll eliminate those confusing words.

Oh yea, and a huge disclaimer before donning your sandals—sporty or fashionable—out on the pavement: MAKE SURE YOUR TOES ARE PEDICURED OR PRESENTABLE. You honestly kill the footwear with jacked up toes and ashy toenail cuticles.


Thong Styles:


Crisscross Styles:


IN THE PRESENT & NEWS BITS

4/23/2008

In the Present

EFFECTIVE TIME USAGE DETERMINES SUCCESS

Everyday you make an investment of your time in your chosen activities.
You cannot save time for later use. You have to use it as it comes.
And you only have 24 hours to each day. Despite the "NOW, NOW" microwave world that makes us feel it's 36 hours.

Try to get the most out of the time you have. Focus your efforts on doing those things that will have the most significant impact on your life and your work.

Do the important things first and stay focused on them until they are done.

Nothing makes you more effective than your ability to stay focused.
Challenge yourself to stay focused. You'll be amazed at how much you'll get done, when you actually work the whole time you're working.

Your time is precious and cannot be replaced. Use it effectively with focus and get things done.

Don't serve time, make time serve you.

NEWS BITS

Obama congratulates Hillary and moves onto Indiana like a real trooper.

Seth Godin: How did you get better at your job?

Scrumptious and delish chocolate delights.

Sean “Diddy” Combs: The style evolution the marketing extraordinaire underwent.

Black Enterprise: Earl “Butch (so frat!)” Graves, Jr. dishes tips, advice, and suggestions from the corner office for execs. and business owners









4.22.2008

ESQUIRE: BEST DRESSED MAN IN AMERICA!



Unfortunately being a NYC inhabitant inhibits Mr. MSR from being apart of this wicked style-driven event. And I wouldn't jet set for one day...well then again, we're talking about the Wynn (favorite hotel in Vegas). Hmmnn.....

Anyhow, while I figure this out, Esquire magazine invites us MEN to come to the Esquire Style Lounge on Saturday, April 26, from noon - 6pm, at Blush Boutique Nightclub in Wynn Las Vegas!
While you’re at the Esquire Style Lounge, talk to an Esquire stylist, have your picture taken and enter the search for the Best Dressed Real Man in America.

While at the Esquire Style Lounge, also enjoy the following exclusive lifestyle vignettes:

• Exclusive preview of IWC watch collection
• Exclusive fashions from luxury men’s retailer Pal Zileri
• Exclusive straight-edge shaves and grooming advice from Elliott & Co.
• Complimentary shoe shines
• Hand-rolled cigars
• Classic cocktails

In addition:

WIN A $40,000 PRIZE PACKAGE INCLUDING:

• An IWC watch • A round-trip flight on a Bombardier™ Learjet® aircraft • A VIP trip for two to Switzerland
• An Esquire $10,000 wardrobe • A chance to be in Esquire’s September Style Issue


So, Vegas MSR readers, and anyone traveling over,. let me know how the event panned out! In addition, send me some shots so I can post for the other MaleStyle Review readers.

For more information, log on to: www.esquirebdrm.com

Update: Nick Sullivan (Esquire Fashion Editor) and the pub has slated a online contest for the Best Dressed Gentry. After combing through the contestant profiles I said "picking a winner won't be an easy task because the Gents are giving their A++ style game."

Copy the corresponding link to enter:
http://www.esquirebdrm.com/index.php#form

IN THE PRESENT & NEWS BITS

4/22/2008

In the Present

No one has a corner on success. Pay the price for it and it's yours.

No matter what you want from life you've got to give up something to get it (the "S" word).

Nothing worthwhile will come easily to you. Hard work will accomplish results that last.

You've got to work a great deal harder than most people to get it (outshine in your own lane).

There is no success at bargain basement prices. The highway to success is a toll road.

Everything has a price GENTS.

Here's a perfect embodiment of someone who's paid the price and now he's brushing off his naysayers.



Gotta love it!

NEWS BITS

Liz Hurley sparkling for the UK Times!

NY Rangers Sean Avery to work for VOGUE this summer (talk about passion speaking up). Also, TOM FORD eyewear ads banned across Italy.

Today is Earth Day and it’s loosing its relevancy in certain places.

News Corp (Murdoch, you publishing magnate) set to acquire Newsday paper.

The adventurer in me wants to tackle this water playhouse this summer!

4.21.2008

ALICIA KEYS' NEW TRACK!


My wife Alicia Keys (no offense Krucial) has done it again with her new fire hit: Teenage Love Affair! It's cool and definitely channels your teenage puppy love days. You know--let's go to the movies and McDonald afterwards or the priceless: "hey baby, let me take you to Six Flags" for the day. The fellas in my era always sealed the deal with those initiatives!

Any how, listen to the track. As for the song's music video (releasing nationally Wednesday), I got exclusives views and it's pretty cool. The video basically channels the Spike Lee classic School Daze. In the video, she's sports a young 'fly-girl' (or 'Meeoow Girl' from the movie) look with funky jackets and door knocker earrings. Also, Derek Luke (channeling Laurence Fishburne from the movie), makes a cameo in the video who I presume is her interest in the video. In closing, kudos to the stylist (not sure if her stylist Wouri did the full cast) for outfitting the video with some strong looks.

Teenage Love Affair:





Update: As said above, "Teenage Love Affair" was making its debut yesterday(4/24). My wife gave 106th and Park first release exclusives! Check it out.


IN THE PRESENT& NEWS BITS

4/21/2008

In the Present

Opportunity is all around you.

The people that really succeed in the world are the people who look for the circumstances they want. And, if they can't find them, they make them.

The lure of the distant and the difficult can be deceptive. The great opportunity in your life is where you are right now. Properly perceived, every situation can become an opportunity for you.

Your destiny isn't a matter of chance, it's a matter of choice.
It's not something you wait for, but rather something you achieve with effort.

You're surrounded by opportunity, but things won't turn up in this world until you turn them up.

NEWS BITS

Marc Jacobs store in Army Green.

Affordable debonair attire: The best suits under $5 Franklins.

Eli Manning says “I DO.”

Viacom launches on-demand premium channel for pay-TV viewers.

Mr. MSR can wait for ‘Tribeca Film Festival’ to kickoff this week.




4.20.2008

BILL CUNNINGHAM FOR NEW YORK TIMES

Ok, it's 2:27 am and I'm leisurely thumbing through the 'Sunday Styles' section of today's NYT. The style features and stories are always cool! But what's even a cooler component to the section is superstar photographer, Bill Cunningham's "On the Street" style pictorials. Each week he captures NY'ers parading the pavements in a prevalent trend or fashionable item of-the-moment.

Bill's Ironclad story today struck a familiar chord with Mr. MSR. In short, his presentation is highlighting what men in New York City are wearing for Spring.

Due to the flash integration of the shots, I was only able to capture the audio slide show (audible speakers highly recommended). The Gent in the Paris tweed three-piece suit and the two gents discussing the tie are my favorite Cunningham capturing!

Please copy and paste below link, as written in two parts into your browser:

http://www.nytimes.com/packages/html/fashion/
20080420_STREET_FEATURE/index.html

This audio slide show is amazing!

OBSESSIONS


My two all time favorite sneakers (Adidas Gazelle and PUMA Clyde) styled opposite each other on this book cover caught me. As I delved further into the cover, I realized Puma and Adidas were launched by rival brothers after a previous business partnership went south, or if you prefer, sour. Being intrigued by the flap cover prefaces I journeyed deeper to see the impact their feuding caused in the sporting business. Prepare yourself for some WOW factors! It's an exciting read and obsession for any Gent a fan of sneakers or these brands.


Before author-turn-celebrities like Seth Godin, Malcolm Gladwell, Raymond Nadeau, etc. we had the legendary George C. Fraser scribing his gems. My dad (in the medical field) swears by his business writings and volumes (both current and old). I never got why. That's until I stumbled on Click: Ten Truths for Building Extraordinary Relationships. George Fraser shouts off like a well experienced networking guru and people connector. I commend this book for dishing out relatable truths anyone down to a high school senior understands. With such an easy-read feel, I wouldn't be surprised if you finished the book in one sitting. I recommend having this title in your collection. Why? Because it willl always keep you connected!

MSR: THIS WEEK IN STYLE


Potential Couple? This shot really shouts potential couple.
Mr. Benjamin we're feeling your contrasting combos! Especially the snug beret and bold graphic tie.

George Clooney's style statement is clear even cushioned between Renee and the girlie.

I see you RL! We're digging the dashing tux jacket!
In addition, positive style points for the skinny mustard belt!

Cassie you're a instant fashion-forward with this number.
The nude legs are hurting me... :) :)


Gossip Girl actors stylin' for 'The Early Show' in NYC!
Awesome fresh and slick British pointers on the left!

Even with double side profile shots this style duo is still recognizable.
Victoria: I like cobalt blue on you. Also, the daring cutout back is sexy!!
David: Even with a tailored waistcoat , rolled up oxford, distressed denim, and rough-hewn boots you still manage to look compliment Victoria.

CP3 a.k.a. Chris Paul showing of his New Orleans style for this month's Men's Vogue.

4.18.2008

UNIQLO: CELEBRATES 50th ANNIVERSARY FOR MANGA PUBLISHERS


I call it the go-to for affordable luxe (I like the flow of that)! UNIQLO's brought the 'shopping experience' back to Soho. If you haven't visited the three-level aesthetic-inclined space, I beckon you to take a trip over. For my global readers, just pencil it in on your 'To Do' list when you arrive in NYC.

Currently, their massive display(pictured) might seem tagged up with grand manga (japanese term for comic) characters . It's all in apart to celebrate and honor some of Japan's most acclaimed manga publishers, who's been sketching for the last 50 years. I like the fact the brand remains true to their culture, and takes the liberty of inviting consumers to be included!

UNIQLO, never putting down the desing-forward torch, has fired up a limited edition collection of inspired graphic t-shirts celebrating manga culture. I gathered some shots of the limited edition t-shirt roll out currently on the mannequins.



The first 'T' is my winner!

IN THE PRESENT & NEWS BITS

4/18/2008

In the Present

Labels limit us

"When I let go of what I am, I become what I might be."
-- Lao Tzu

How do you define yourself, to yourself and others? Are you first and foremost a husband/wife? A mother/father? A bus driver,marketer, dentist, musician, fashion designer ... ? A Christian, Muslim, Jew ...? A nag, joker, dreamer ...?

Be aware that any label puts limits on you. Today, experience how it feels to let go of the labels to rest in ‘I am.’ Feel the freedom, the spaciousness, the infinite potential of simply being (give yourself at least 2 min. amidst the noise to listen to the inner voice speaking).

I leave you with the words of Eckhart von Hochheim: "As long as I am this or that, I am not all things."

NEWS BITS

I have decided to scratch away the NEWS BITS section today. I want you readers to focus on today's In The Present lesson. No worries, it'll be back first thing Monday morning!

4.17.2008

ARE YOU VIBING TO 'DIAMOND GIRL' LIKE WE ARE @ MSR?!


Ryan Leslie, where was your talents hiding (performer skills that is)? I guess you wanted to put your poster-child Cassie first, huh? Well tell you what, (I know you're reading) the wait was worth it bro! The new track, 'Diamond Girl' is a instant banger and I know it's set the stage for more lethal RL productions to come.

Shout out to the video director for nailing the '60s contemporary mod-feel look!

Speaking of mod, I like the incorporation of the tuxedos--it's way appropriate for the song. Thanks for showing the masses MEN are still dressing up. And it's more to R&B and Rap videos than just oversize hang'n jeans and hyper-embellished jeweled t-shirts.

In the end of video, you make a truthful statement: You want to replay the track after listening! I know my butt did, and again for the thrice.

Check out "Diamond Girl."

IN THE PRESENT & NEWS BITS

4/17/08

In the Present

Raising your sights

"A human being is a part of the whole, called by us ‘Universe,’ a part limited in time and space. He experiences himself, his thoughts and feelings as something separated from the rest - a kind of optical delusion of his consciousness. This delusion is akind of prison for us, restricting us to our personal desires and to affection for a few persons nearest to us. Our task must be to free ourselves from this prison by widening our circle of compassion to embrace all living creatures and the whole of nature in its beauty. Nobody is able to achieve this completely, but the striving for such achievement is in itself a part of the liberation and a foundation for inner security."

-- Albert Einstein


To grow in consciousness, we expand our perspectives on life. So how do we do that? The more we work with the universal -- the concept of unity and wholeness, the more everything makes sense. Parts have meaning when they are understood to be parts of a bigger picture.

Consciousness is all about relationships -- especially how the lower relates to the higher and how the darkness can exist within the light. Let opposites coexist in you without choosing one over the other( it's the balance we strive for).


I read, "Higher consciousness, enlightenments, comes from meaningful experiences and lessons passed with the understanding that there truly is only one law - the Law of Love. When one leads a life expressing this belief, the mind and heart begin to open to new realities, and other dimensional truths become known."

-Dr. Norma Milanovich & Dr. Shirley McCune

NEWS BITS

The Pope lands in the capital and brings out the masses.

A NOTE for all the heavy gulping drinkers out there.

I never new until my brother phoned recently to say Bob Marley’s mom (Cedella Marley) passed on few days earlier. At 80+ she still was producing tracks (literally) and memorializing her late son with many philanthropic endeavors.

Sleek and equally comfy seatings for the bachelor abode.

The essential Gentleman accessory for Spring!

4.16.2008

MODEL AJUMA

Whenever I see this picture--or any as a matter of fact--of Ajuma [Nasanyana] I wonder why the fashion covers hasn't soaked her striking yet bold features up? She's got the package: Size. Check. Height. Check. Measurements. Check. Picture-ready. Of course check.

I noticed the towering beauty last season at fashion week, dominating the catwalks with her powerful presence. What does it take for the global fashion publications to take notice of genuine beauty (sans cosmetic enhancements or configuration)? Nonconformity, if you ask me. Rare beauties like this (referring o modeling), I believe comes ever so often, and publications and advertising should realize this.

Just find the recent BARNEYS catalog or previous TARGET campaigns to see the beauty I'm referencing.

AJUMA--A TRUE MODEL:




CFDA/VOGUE FUND EVENT LAST NIGHT!



The über-fied (sp) and done up Bowery Hotel was the locale for the annual ‘CFDA/VOGUE Fashion Fund’ benefit. Host of last night’s event included Vogue's Sally Singer and Meredith Melling Burke, and Bonnie Morrison (PR GURU turn Special Projects Editor) of Men's Vogue. The fund was crafted to help and nurture American design talent. The results: The designers receive mentoring from a top-tier fashion panel of professionals who matches up with the designers’ needs and future goals. Past design beneficiaries included Doo-Ri Chung, Kate and Laura Mulleavy ,Thakoon Panichgul, Derek Lam and Proenza Schouler, just to mention a few.


Each year, GAP partners with Vogue and CFDA to host the exclusive event in NYC. In conjunction as event partner, GAP uses the FUND recipients to reinterpret the classic white shirt; allowing the designers to add their interesting twists and design craftsmanship. Besides the slew of designers, the fund added jewelry designer (way to go! jewelry designers are out there too) Philip Crangi into the design mix.

The designs (pictured above) were wicked—but us GENTS could only connect with the masculine cuts and western-inspired shirts of Michael Bastian. Hopefully with Men’s Vogue on board we’ll see at least two menswear designers each year.

Western Shirt By Michael Bastian for GAP


More Pictures from CFDA/VOGUE Fashion Fund soirée:


IN THE PRESENT & NEWS BITS

4/16/2008

In the Present

LIFE IN ABUNDANCE COMES ONLY THROUGH GREAT LOVE


There is no force more potent than love. Take away love and your earth is a tomb.

Without love, your life will echo emptiness.
With it, your life vibrates warmth and meaning.
Even during times of hardship, love always shines through. (believe this, and take to the bank!)

If you have it, you don't need anything else, and if you don't have it, it doesn't much matter what else you have.

As you look back on the events in your life, you will find that the moments that stand out, the moments that you have really lived(vacay with the bros or girls), are the moments when you have done things in the spirit of love.

Therefore, search for love. Once you have learned to love, you'll have learned to live.

Love is the most important ingredient for living well. I believe as a culture we've forgot to love, you know, the simple things. I'm not sure where the disconnect roared its head but I challenge you to go back to space of love and just watch the changes, improvements, and win-wins you'll begin noticing.

In closing, there's a scripture in the Bible that reads: There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear. For fear has to do with punishment, and he who fears is not perfected in love."

NEWS BITS

The NYC Dental Spa where Madonna, TomKat, Gwen Steffani and Donatella are all booking appointments at.

Marc Jacobs: Loose cannon for his tell-all interview with GQ editors blog.

Hollywood: Young starlets mirror GUCCI runways.

Legendary singer—Bruce Springsteen—backs Barack Obama.

My neighborhood is host to the “Brooklyn Flea”. Its extensive category offerings make any flea market enthusiast feel at home. Read the blazon cover story that appeared in NYT Sunday ‘Styles’ section. Side note: With the countless persuasion of my peeps, I purchased this ‘fit-like-butter’ cream vintage trench coat (FIYAH!) that’s perfect for Spring.






4.15.2008

JESSICA SIMPSON SCARES THE MEN!

Before hitting the theaters last night, I cozied on the floor in Barnes & Nobles perusing the new monthlies and book titles on display. As I'm grabbing from the 'Men's Interest' section, this akward yet interesting Esquire cover grips me. I stood there with the ? marked face. But getting more into the cover, I realized the buzzy graphical copy in the left corner. It read: We Shot This Image To Catch Your Eye So You Will Pick Up This Issue. I thought, "are sales really plummeting over at the pub?" Whatever the case, the intention definitely caught my attention and I'm sure the pockets of other consumers.


Jessica Simpson re-enacting a famous 1965 Esquire cover starring model Virna Lisi.

MSR FUNNIES

Surprising unconventional first dance routines has become the norm at weddings all over. In today's funnies the wedding clip below is the best out thus far! It punches up creativity, love and plain ole good times!



Speaking of choreographed routines, you remember this classic part in 'House Party?' Priceless.
Mr. MSR swore he was 'Play' in the early days!

4.14.2008

HIP HOP MEN SPOTLIGHTS IN MOCAD

What does Russell Simmons, Kanye West, 50 Cent, Common, Marc Ecko, Reverend Run, Duke, Lil Jon, Don "Magic" Juan and Whoo Kid all currently share in common?

These iconic hip-hop subjects are all apart of the exhibition of portraits for painter Alexander Melamid. Holy Hip-Hop! New Paintings by Alex Melamid features portraits capturing each icons larger-than-life persona. Melamid is phenomenal when mirroring every spec of the performer (he uses a European technique he’s been applying for the past 40 years) or individual on the life-size portraits.

“Melamid was introduced to his subjects by his son, Dan "Dan the Man" Melamid, a music video director working in the hip-hop industry. For two years, from 2003 to 2005, Melamid spent time with each of the men, got to know them, then photographed and drew them as the basis for his paintings,” according to exhibit materials.

If you’re in the Detroit area, Holy Hip-Hop! New Paintings by Alex Melamid will be on view at the Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit (MOCAD) from February 8 through April 20, 2008.

A sampling of paintings on display:









IN THE PRESENT & NEWS BITS

4/14/2008

In the Present

"Beware of the fury of the patient man."
-- John Dryden

Our minds perceive and give relative value - positive and negative - to the different sides of a duality. We usually shun the negative. It's important to know that you cannot eliminate the negative by focusing exclusively on the positive. Energetically, both opposites must remain in balance (read this).

Increase one and its opposite will also increase. Try to be only positive and the negative within you will raise its ugly head. We work with dualities by remembering that each is part of the whole. We must acknowledge and accept all aspects of life, because they all exist within us. And so, if we seek to be honest, we do so by acknowledging our potential to be dishonest.

We can also bring in love and compassion when we catch ourselves acting out the negative. Power arises out of integrating the positive and negatives within us (strange, but true). From the tension that exists between the two, we develop awareness and become more conscious and compassionate.

In closing Gents, remember, "Any fool can run towards the light. It takes a master with courage to turn and face the darkness and shine his own light there."

-- Leslie Fieger

NEWS BITS

Katie Couric to possibly leave CBS for CNN (replacement for Larry King) network.

Funnyman Jon Stewart gets funny for a serious cause.

Laurence Fishburne (I just had flashbacks of his early Laurence in School Daze) kicks of Thurgood (play about life about Thurgood Marshall) in NYC this weekend.

FORTUNE gets a kudos for this awesome feature! Check the twelve sultans (or rulers) who exemplify business style. To make the list: Christian Louboutin, Diego Della Valle (owns Tods and Hogan), Tory Burch, Diane Von Furstenberg, and some other celebrated fashion forwards.

Highlights from the hype game between the Lakers and Spurs last night!

4.12.2008

MSR: THIS WEEK IN STYLE

He gets my vote for "Best Spring Edgy!"
I believe this is a custom creation but wouldn't be surprised if it's Thom Browne, Balenciaga, or Brooks Brother!




Luigi Martini of Kiton (calypso man) grooving in style.
I'm digging the various quirky textures and elements.

Kudos for Lindsay presenting the urban-chic look as they call it.
The lion face tank and metallic dunks are killers!

Always rolling in style no matter how different their fashion choices are!

Michael Macko (Saks Menswear Director) I like the risk-taking with this ensemble!

YALE student wearing grunge very well and natural-looking.

This child actor is off to a great start!
Besides his high-style accessories (LV coin purse and luxe chipper gold watch) I like the mix of cotton shirt with tweed flat front pants.
Side note: This girl said "you and this kid look alike." I don't see it, does anyone else?