ROADTRIP PT. 2: SOUTH BEACH

I have not forgotten to share the ‘happening’ goodies of scorching South Beach.

As you will recall from the last entry ,I was having a blast at the Delano, and enjoying the spoils thrust forth unto guests. Tanning out and poolside schmoozing (I’m the sober Gent) became a bore after a few hours. I escaped onto the Collins Ave. strip to get my sightseeing (so, tourist…lol) and shopping on.

I am not going to give play-by-play with all my stops, (I know you’re probably reading this from work) but I will mention the must-shop-and-see while vacationing in South Beach. With so many stops, I did major editing due to the hyper-repetitiveness (merchandise, layout, fixtures, etc.) of most shops.

SOUTH BEACH SHOPPING

All throughout South Beach the shopping availableness was insane. Everywhere you spun, products are forced in your face, and often times into your hands. For menswear, the popular designers throughout were Ed Hardy (weirdly, this brand plasters most visual displays), D&G and Moschino (considered topnotch label). Gents, prepare yourself to drape your physique in bling. For some strange reason from eyewear down to footwear is sparkling with glitz. However, with time and patience, I tapped some distinct spaces for merchandise.

BASE

BASE is the ultimate must-see shop in Miami. Flooded with top it-designers (Y-3, Opening Ceremony, Turf Mid, Alexandre Herchcovitch), it’s a lifestyle emporium with merchandise definitely prone to receive envious looks from the haters. The massive space is uniquely dissected into men’s and women. The associates at BASE are pleasant and were on point when summoned by shoppers. BASE houses a meticulous set of men’s footwear (in wood vintage glass displays) in the the store's rear. I urge you to check it out. To add, BASE stocks all the popular design and style books.

(www.baseworld.com)

ATRIUM MIAMI

More southward on Collins, ATRIUM Miami, is “IT.” The retail space is loaded with top-level designers and labels, making a noise in fashion. The men’s section is spacious with room to maneuver through the prized merchandise offerings. My recommended purchasers: Europann shorts (exceptional prints); everything from Maharishi and Ksubi; and Grayson’s suede/nubuck lace-ups I went crazy over. ATRIUM Miami is a stately outpost from its ostentatious New York flagship. Although, stately, you can’t forget where you reside with large potted fresh plants and wood panels flushed throughout.

(www.atriumnyc.com)

Aces of Shades

Need exclusive frames or vintage frames? Ace of Shades on Washington Ave. has you covered. Newbie to the South Beach area, the store is shining tall with ace-rated shades. Boutique owner, Stan, informed me that “the European tourists are banking up the store's shades mostly." I was given the best consumer-tour! Which is why, I can say, their vintage Christian Dior and Porsche (both unisex) frames are fierce!! Editors and stylist would crave to feature the heated eyewear. In fact, all the unique frames on display: Marc Jacobs, Ferrari, Gucci, Mosley Tribes (Mr. MSR new eyewear of choice!), RayBan (his top seller), and countless other designers.

1516 Washington Ave., (305-534-2966

South Beach Recycled

You can’t vacation in South Beach, and not visit South Beach Recycled. It’s just unheard-of. The store’s years of distinct vintage pieces collecting calmly hangs, folds, or rest on racks in very spacious quarters. The men’s selection would make any Gent penniless--mark my words. The freedom to wander and admire western tops; aged wranglers; distressed leathers; ruffled 70s shirts; and sturdy felts is the ultimate shopping experience. Nothing else compares.

1513 Washington Ave., (305-534-5992)

The Beach Wear Store

The Beach Wear Store is a perfect spot for clenching souvenirs, trinkets, t-shirts for individuals back home. On their business card, the store mantra reads, “One stop shop for all your beach wears and fashion needs!!!” I second that line. The fashion offering mix might seem perplexing. Roberto Cavalli sunnies and “I Heart South Beach” t-shirts to the rear was a total shopping curve ball. Despite the merchandising entanglement, I suggest adding this store to your shopping list.

1427 Washington Ave., (786-436-7802)

ART AND CULTURE IN SOUTH BEACH

BOOKS & BOOKS

Clearly the title is a giveaway that Books& Books is a bookstore. Positioned on Lincoln Road, the environment is supremely relaxing and accommodating. Grab a latte in the coffee shop area and cozy up with a great read from their massive book collection (wide category range). It’s definitely Miami’s modern version to Barnes & Nobles.

(www.booksandbooks.com)

BRITTO CENTRAL

Neo-pop artist Romero Britto’s art space—Britto Central—surely excites your inner artist. The space embodies "whimsical" to the highest power. Romero Britto wasn’t on site, but his soaring sculptures and paintings took perfect replacement. Romero Britto's art works are infused with cubism, pop art, and caricature elements. Major brands (Absolut, Disney, Movado, Audi, etc.) have all commissioned Britto for creations. If you need information on any Romero Britto piece while visiting, the helpful consultants are the best! Especially Jennifer!

(www.britto.com)

IN THE PRESENT & NEWS BITS

6/19/2008

In the Present

The power of silence

Growth takes place in a person by working at a deep inner level in a sustained atmosphere of silence. How can we hear our wise voice of intuition if we are always thinking, talking and distracted by outer events?

If we take time daily to experience physical stillness and to direct our attention inside, we can begin to find the peace, love, will and wisdom that exist as our essence. Only when one is connected to one's own core is one connected to others... And, for me, the core, the inner spring, can best be refound through solitude."

Angeles Arrien, proudly said, "In the sweet territory of silence we touch the mystery. It’s the place of reflection and contemplation, and it’s the place where we can connect with the deep knowing, to the deep wisdom way."

Become silent.

NEWS BITS

Our fist-bumping girl, Michelle Obama, shows America a softer view.

SEGA (Japanese game console manufacturer) introduces robotic girlfriend for lonely men.

A memorial service for trailblazer newsman Tim Russert. **Luke (Tim’s son) unified both presidential hopefuls at the memorial service by sitting Barack and McCain side-by-side. Well done Luke! Tim is beaming from the clouds.

There’s been heavy buzz and speculation about the Italian VOGUE all-black model issue. It's true! Cathy Horyn (Style writer for NY TIMES) confirmed the Steve Meisel (Issue creator and photographer) historic issue in her NY Times article today.

I had planned to report on this fresh website for men suiting but a colleague beat me to it. As long as someone reported, is all that matters.

FAREWELL TIM RUSSERT

I had no intentions of posting another blog entry until Monday. However, the passing of the most revered political journalist—Tim Russert—made me want to communicate a little personal memento of the legendary journalist. I remember in my early years at my grandparents’ house, most Sunday mornings, eating breakfast and glued to Meet the Press with Mr. Russert. At 6 and 7, I didn’t really understand the political roundtable talks being discussed, so I watched by default with everyone else.

With age, I understood the show’s platform and why it was a great politician stage. Despite great political spotlighting, you talked “real politics” with Tim. He didn’t soften up with his panel or guests. Mr. Russert delivered hardball heavy-duty questions that made even some of the best intellectual politicians stumble and quiver up.

At around 4 p.m. this afternoon after hearing the news of his passing, I phoned the people who started their Sunday mornings religiously with Tim Russert—the grandparents. My grandmother was crushed and kept saying “Oh, nooo” in her fine accent. Then she added, “I was saying to myself last week he didn’t look so well in his face and eyes.”

Tim Russert died of a massive heart attack shortly after conducting a taped interview for his show on MSNBC. Today, news of the unmatchable interviewer’s passing speeded around the journalism and media circles. To add, networks have been showing us aside of Mr. Russert we often don’t glimpse—the devoted husband, caring father, and proud son. As I keenly listened, I was in total admiration for a man who lived a life dedicated to “see others achieve success, and enjoyed raising his only son Luke.”

The real eye-opener is he passed just before Father’s Day; leaving his son and father with countless memories to ponder. Some of his strongest family man-to-man moments were featured in his acclaimed New York Times bestsellers, “Big Russ and Me” and “Wisdom of our Fathers: Lessons and Letters from Sons and Daughters.”

“Sunday mornings will never be the same”, are the linking comments you continue to hear from presidents, esteemed colleagues, and the common public.

America will miss you Timmy.

-MSR

A series of photographs I feel best represent Tim Russert.

LUXE GIFTS FOR DAD ON FATHER'S DAY!

Every June, I wrestle with the same question: “What to get Dad for Father’s Day?”

Each holiday, differentiating from last year’s present is not an easy task. How do we get out of the indecisive gift-buying rut? How do you come off as fresh yet thoughtful? I GOT IT!

Think luxe and unconventional this year!! Luxe oftentimes connotes to pricey and pocket-draining; it can also be affordable and still represent opulence and luxuriousness. Unconventional is commonsense: Have a creative and forward-thinking mindset towards the gift.

This holiday, MaleStyle Review sourced a few creative, and memorable, Father’s Day gifts Dad would adore and actually apply—as per say to shoving them in his customary gift storage box. Present Dad this holiday with something to treasure and honor. Change your traditional gift list of pens, printed ties, engraved ornaments, cufflinks, and consider the below for the upcoming holiday.

John Deere Lawn Tractor

Upgrade dad this year from traditional mowing to in-style garden grooming. While neighbors are unenthusiastically lugging lawnmowers across their greens, let dad comfortably perch atop his robust John Deere to trim the landscape. The durable features on Monsieur John Deere (12 gauge frame, heavy-duty crankshafts, edge-cutting systems, etc.) promise maximum force and reliability for his Saturday morning lawn cleanup.

HUBLOT: Big Bang Wristwatch

In 1980, Carlo Crocco knew his intentions for unveiling the first-ever watch with black rubber straps. Fast forward twenty something years later, and Hublot remained true—with stylish timepieces topped off with rubber strapping. Hublot is roaring in the 21^st century with their “Big Bang” collection rollout. The stainless steel case and bezel, accompanied with H-style crews and sapphire crystal display, invokes ear-to-ear smiling from any Dad. This holiday, brandish the “Big Man” with this exquisite accessory. The amazing forceful detailing encourages the AMEX swipe.

Book—POP: A Celebration of Black Fatherhood

Last year, I bought this awesome coffee table book for my Dad on Father’s Day. The book’s ethnic center celebrates men of color who has traveled against all odds to break the global stigma angrily dressed onto Black fatherhood. Author, Carol Ross, with photographs and words, shares the glorious highlights, worries, happiness, pain, fathers encounter raising their children. Although carved towards black fathers, I strongly believe, the underlying vision, celebrates ALL fatherhood—know matter the pigment.

Bad Brains + CBGB Skateboard Deck

The popular punk band from the 1970s has appeared—from their performance at defunct CBGB bar—onto Manik skateboard decks. The priceless capture is taken by culture photog phenomenon—Craig Wetherby. Why get a skateboard deck for Dad? Because, decks are the ultimate modern-day artwork! Framed art and paintings are too traditional, and ultra-passé.

KODAK S510 Digital Picture Frame

Compile all your childhood and father-loved photos and load them into this digital frame. KODAK’s made it super-easy to have fond memories on a repetitive view. Besides Dad being a little cheerful, or misty-eyed, it’s travel-friendly from home to office. Or even with him on the surprise Father’s Day vacation you’re brewing up (*Hint, Hint!).

I hope these were some helpful Father’s Day gift suggestions. Please, send an e-mail if you need pricing and where-to-buy information. In addition, check back to Male Style Review and share Dad’s response to the gifts!

IN THE PRESENT

6/13/2008

In the Present

Follow your own path

"Life is complex. Each one of us must make his own path through life. There are no self-help manuals, no formulas, no easy answers. The right road for one is the wrong road for another ... The journey of life is not paved in blacktop; it is not brightly lit, and it has no road signs. It is a rocky path through the wilderness."

-M. Scott Peck

We each have our own pathways to develop both personally and spiritually. They are based on our character and past experiences. No one else can identify our paths for us. Tune in to your inner guidance system and follow its direction.

What every man needs, regardless of his job or the kind of work he is doing, is a vision of what his place is and may be. He needs an objective and a purpose. He needs a feeling and a belief that he has some worthwhile thing to do. What this is no one can tell him. It must be his own creation.

NEWSBITS will resume on Monday, June 16th, 2008!

GEORGE LOIS: THE ESQUIRE COVERS @ MOMA

A dashing George Lois in '64.

Ladies breakfast at Tiffany’s, but men lunch at MOMA.

If they don’t, I say “Gents should”, especially when George Lois is on current exhibition at MOMA.

The creative and inspiring museum environment formulates the feeling to pass up delish turkey wraps for some wonderful artistry. George Lois changed, better put revolutionized advertising communications: “Aunt Jemima” was George’s creation; I Want My MTV echoed Lois’ name; Reebok PUMP thought-stimulating adverts which rivaled Air Jordan’s sneakers all bears George Lois.

The advertising wiz (we all know, the Legend is David Ogilvy!) famed the Xerox culture and created the stay-at-home mom quick fix—Lean Cuisine. Lois brought communication to the forefront and didn’t have reservations, as you can firmly identify in his current MOMA exhibition: George Lois: The Esquire Covers.

Esquire, pioneered quirky magazine design covers—with Lois steering the creative director title—from 1962 to 1972. Ten years of exceptional design! Oh, and better believe George boast an award-winning tag for his work(s).

Tomorrow during lunch, or whenever you have time to spare, run down to MOMA and check out—George Lois—one of America’s top advertising communicator. If you reside outside NYC, be sure to visit his website: www.georgelois.com

MY ESQUIRE COVER FAVES BY MR. LOIS:

LENS: THIS WEEK IN STYLE

A big SHOUT-OUT to Mr. MSR's mom on her birthday today!
A true stylish woman!

Lindsay and Zac Efron showing classy, youthful style.
Zac, your single-breast Moschino suit is a winner!

Daivd, you're always making our MSR Style list.
For another time, you offer up strong sense of style in a made-to-measure vest and sturdy crisp oxford.
And the icing: The upright bow tie and beaded bracelets!

Usher you've been repeating these trench cropped jackets in various colors. I will find the designer, trust. This time however, you show it off in a classic yet comfy way. Awesome!

Chris, I like the modernize spin on the 'British foot guard' jacket!

I see you have 'style gusto' for donning this avant garde jacket!

Spencer Pratt giving lethal style in a classic pinstripe suit paired with a classic silky crimson tie.
Your accessory (Heidi) is not bad either!

MSR RETAIL SPOTLIGHT: TIMEFRAME SOHO

TIMEFRAME Soho (Inside shot).

In May, I was invited by a friend, to a champagne soirée (soft store launch also) for TIMEFRAME Soho, in NoLita, NYC. Luxuriousness with premium touches fueled the mid-sized boutique, on Elizabeth Street. Neighbors with status designer Tory Burch and handmade clothing specialists Seize sur Vingt, TIMEFRAME Soho is positioned in eminent surroundings. Think TIMEFRAME? What products pops into the mental? If you thought “watches” and “eyewear”, you’re on-point!

TIMEFRAME Soho shelves are laced with killer shades from Alexander McQueen, Tom Ford (couldn’t keep away!), Bottega Venetta, Chrome Hearts, BVLGARI, Gucci, Missoni, and hordes of other major designers. I cannot forget the bold timepieces on showcase by Roberto Cavalli, Sector, D &G, Breil (Gents, Breil’s are WOW’ers!), just to mention a few.

After connecting with TIMEFRAME Soho’s spanking-fresh selections, I had to meet the curator for the space. No joke, TIMEFRAME Soho merchandising warrants a curator title! I chopped it briefly with store owner Chidi Ejiogu, lawyer turned retail entrepreneur.

Chidi said “This TIMEFRAME boutique is the second location for NYC.The first location is housed in retail space LOUNGE, not to far from this location.” With plans to spin-off more locations throughout, Chidi is steadily cultivating TIMEFRAME as the go-to for luxury accessories.

To add, TIMEFRAME is beefing up additional categories with lush cosmetics—both for men and women. And JALDA clutches (toted by many Hollywood starlets) for the exotic-inclines.

For more information, visit TIMEFRAME Soho at 259 Elizabeth Street in NoLita or 593 Broadway @ Houston Street.

IN THE PRESENT & NEWS BITS

6/10/2008

In the Present

SUCCESS DEPENDS ON USING NOT OPPOSING

The world is primarily constituted on the basis of harmony. Everything works in cooperation with something else.

Personal relationships are the fertile soil from which all advancement, all success, all achievement in real life grows.

Put yourself in another's place. Only then will you know why they think and do certain things.

Once you understand how quickly people will grant your requests when those requests appeal to their self interest, you can have practically anything you go after.

It's through cooperation not conflict, that you'll achieve your greatest achievements.

NEWS BITS

IKEA comes to Brooklyn, but with massive advertising blitzes.

Tori Spelling welcomes baby Stella!

I am a little crushed that Michael Strahan is leaving the NY GIANTS. Thanks for a great 15 years!

Premiere, luxe duffel's for the jet-setting Gents!

Rest the Vilbrequin trunks for a while and get clad in ‘Sundek’ swimmers!

OBSESSIONS

I could not keep my new obsession under wraps any longer. I cannot release the designer's name, but know this Chinese (not Japanese) footwear design genius have put a smile on my face (and comfort to the feet) for the summer season!! And the icing...it's totally affordable and budget-friendly for the pockets.

IN THE PRESENT & NEWS BITS

Intuit and do it

"Everyone who has ever taken a shower has had an idea. It's the person who gets out of the shower, dries off, and does something about it that makes a difference."

Creativity and intuition are meaningless unless you put the ideas that arise into action. We must make some effort to do things differently or to do different things, or our lives remain the same.

J. Michael Straczynski, said this: "People spend too much time finding other people to blame, too much energy finding excuses for not being what they are capable of being, and not enough energy putting themselves on the line, growing out of the past, and getting on with their lives."

NEWS BITS

United Air to buyout 600 Flight attendants. Talk about scaling back.

Hollywood endorses Barack Obama!

My next must-see funny flick for the summer. Should be yours as well!

The top 6 best-buy items and when to snatch them!

The oh-so sweet green and purple ball court rivalry revisited! Celtics (PIERCE!) awesome game last night!

OBSESSIONS

Guccissima horsebit loafers.

Note: Get into the loafer bottom details.

A bit of step in your summer strolls this season.

I am a fan!! And I'm proud to say these status loafers grew on me after one season.

With sizzling temps rounding the corner, get ready to display some nude ankles—covering them with grandfather or tube socks is not an option. Sorry. Instead, cut-above the other dandies; exposing in a pair of luxe Guccissima horsebit loafers. Pure first-class footwear statements: The brand’s leather engraved ‘GG’ dotting technique and proportioned welt seam warrants them instant neck-breakers—conjuring the “Where did you get those?” inquiries.

The signature styles are amply summer-appropriate: From beach boardwalks to outdoor scenic Sunday brunches. Its exotic features, might summon wardrobe conundrums but actually it’s a faultless pairing for casual and sartorial getups. Win over gawking pupils with simple wardrobe match—ups.

Look # 1: A pure white v-neck (gives ensemble, dimensions) tee atop slimming relaxed-fit denims executes well.

Look #2: A sharply cut single-breast suit (solid color hues) accompanied by a classic fit oxford instantly dresses the loafers up. Can you say, Debonair?!

Additionally, opt away from blaring fabrics (the Versace’s or Roberto Cavalli’s)—it shuns the loafers’ swanky design elements. Subtle simplicity is vital for effectively donning Guccissima horsebits!

This season you cannot lose with attention-grabbing loafers!

ROADTRIP: SOUTH BEACH

Mr. MSR readying for the sands!

S.S.S. a.ka. Sizzzling South Beach.

Pre-Memorial Day weekend (Tuesday through Friday) I packed up the Samsonite hard-shell and jetted down to South Beach (Miami); to soak up the sun and prepare for a fun n' exploring summer. American Airlines (the carrier really lost the premium feel.) schlepped me into Miami International around 11 a.m. and I suffered, feverishly waiting for the luggage at the carousel dock for ever. Oy Vey!

…luggage arrived and I’m charted away to the hotel. Scoping the gazillion of FOR SALE and mid-construction condos along pristine Biscayne Bay became overbearing. Pulling up the secluded hotel driveway at the DELANO brought back vacay mode. In keeping with the “D”: I say its Delightful and Design-y.

The Delano definitely can be deemed the artist or designer home-away-from-home. The world-class interiors by design lord Philippe Starck blew me away! The museum-quality décor (pictured) conjures chic and modern—while cuddling a beach ethos. I toured the airy lobby, and more grounds to only notice a reappearing theme: Different scales with Furniture. Something I dig; it’s so unconventional and against the grain. (Think floor-to-ceiling tufted chairs in a nook.) In the hotel suite, Mr. MSR is met with super-white modern décor and P. Starck furnishings. I am in heaven at this point…

After a quick decompress, I routed my new temporary home for more amenities and findings. I started on the Penthouse level with a saunter into agua @ DELANO. The vibes and extra-helpful service was awesome. However, the tipping prices didn’t agree so well. Gents, get a deep Tissue Massage ($160) or Gentlemen’s Facial ($120) if you’re in an extra-grooming mode.

Afterwards, I found myself touring the cool shoebox-size shop—BASE@ DELANO—on the main level. BASE (tune in to Pt. II Road trip for info on the larger BASE in South Beach) stocks amazing edited merchandise: Books (Stellar Coffee Tables), Clothing, Footwear (Y-3), and Lifestyle knickknacks pleasant for home or office.

I rounded off, by stopping on the scenic beach (Delano’s section) where I joined the costumed gents in Vilbrequin shorts with Havaianas Thongs. I managed anythow. Miami is so see-and-be-seen, yet from the style standpoint, I’m all about it. “GET IN!” I say. Paparazzo was in full-effect (a little shocked) shooting the radiant Veronica Webb and kiddies playing on the sands. Oh, even youthful-looking John Witherspoon (Pops from The Wayans Brothers show) was on the scene relaxing.

Stay posted for my PART II ROADTRIP entry where I share on the South Beach lifestyle for us Gents. Also, I must share about the vibrant & pulsating POOL area at the Delano. After combing through hot-spots, Mr. MSR has secured the best in menswear shopping (of course), eating, culture, dining out.

Some photos for the viewing pleasure:

In front of the Delano

Delano's expansive lobby.

Award-winning 'Blue Door' Restaurant.

Poolside cabana at dusk.

I recommend 'Blue Sea' for the Sushi revelers.

Agua Spa roof deck for the lounging types.


Check the room I was slated! I know. Heaven!!

The view from Heaven. Seeing things like this makes one want to relocate.

IN THE PRESENT & NEWS BITS

6/3/2008

In the Present

DREAM!

"The most pathetic person in the world is the person who has sight, but no vision."

-- Helen Keller

What’s the big picture for your life? Always have a larger, purposeful, even spiritually ideal picture of where you are going. Your mind needs to have a clear and challenging vision to draw you ever upwards.

Louisa May Alcott, said "Far away there in the sunshine are my highest aspirations. I may not reach them, but I can look up and see their beauty, believe in them, and follow where they lead."

The only limits are, as always, those of vision. Get thinking...

NEWS BITS

Bill Clinton apologizes for using the ‘scumbag’ towards a Vanity Fair reporter. Tell me, why have Billy been getting thuggish towards press as of lately?

Nick Hogan to stay locked away for his 18^th birthday! What a real bummer.

Obama preparing his victory oration!

Last night, NYC had fashion frenzy on the porch of the NY Public Library for CFDA.

Naomi Campbell pays homage to Yves Saint Laurent with heartening words.

MSR FUNNIES

Who could forget these timeless--LOL--Fresh Prince clips!

Good memories I tell you!

FAREWELL YSL

Sir. Yves Saint Laurent, came bursting toe-to-toe, with Coco Chanel and other designers dressing the fashion-forwards of his era. Mr. Laurent made history as a champion-winning designer (crafting a snazzy cocktail dress) in the International Wool Secretariat contest. Oh, yea, note he was only 17!! Y.S.L. created history for a second go-around, earning Head of the Christian Dior House, at a tender 21. Take notice design students!

I was enthralled into his early works from assisting a friend with her school project. The man gave power to feminine styles with sharp-edged tailoring. Men!, although he designed women's ready-to-wear and amazing couture, Yves made belted safari jackets (Barbour, Gucci, etc.) we proudly boast today fashion-relevant in the '60s.

A legend has left us, but his legacy designs still beckon you to take notice.

THE MAN. THE LEGEND. YVEST SAINT LAURENT:

This YSL 'Mondrian' shift from Fall '65 is still making noise at the MET Museum!

Note: Celeb shoe fitter Christian Louboutin even interpreted shoes off of this design.

I'M BACCCCCCCCCKKKK!

Hey Readers,

Don't hate Mr. MSR for one second. I received the entire where are you? e-mail's and messages. I just want shell out rounds of apologies to the MSR faithful(s) and readers. I promise not to depart with such long time spans (without proper announcements) ever again.

Feels good to be back :) !

-Mr. MSR
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6/2/2008

In the Present

FEAR IS OVERCOME WITH ACTION

One of the greatest surprises you'll experience, is when you discover that you can do what you were afraid you couldn't do.

Your obstacles will melt away, if instead of cowering before them, you make up your mind to walk boldly through them.

Do the thing you fear and fear disappears. Confront your fears, list them, get to know them and only then will you be able to put them aside and move ahead.

When you face the things that scare you, you open the door to freedom.

The only thing you have to fear, is fear itself.

NEWS BITS

Design great Yves Saint Laurent (YSL) passes at 71.

Guys are surviving Sex and the City. Mr. MSR morphed into Mr. BIG at last night’s screening. It’s a pretty good flick.

Ed Kennedy has successful brain surgery. A big Amen!

Kelsey Grammer encounters mild heart attack in Hawaii.

IKEA coming to Brooklyn on June 18^th! This is definitely newsworthy. I have been pining over their arrival since last year winter when I heard development buzzes.