Prominence Magazine

Carlos Watson

Summer 2010

It’s more than a way of living; it’s a state of mind.

DENNIS LA WHITE

LEAVING HIS MARK ON HOLLYWOOD

WHY YOU NEED A

SPENDING PLAN THE UMBRELLA FOR THOSE

RAINY DAYS

PAUL CARRICK BRUNSON THE MODERN DAY HITCH

POWER PLAYAS

People you

need to know

9

***PLACE AD HERE.

Become…

Inspired

&

Empowered

CONTENTS

3 l FALL 2010 I www.prominencemag.com

6 PUBLISHER‘S LETTER

8 CONTRIBUTORS

9 PICTURE THIS

12 WHAT‘S HOT

23 THE GREAT ESCAPE

49 IN THE END

51 IN THE SPOTLIGHT

THE 411

15 Denzel Washington’s IT Factor is contagious as the

number one man in Hollywood has that longevity that only

some could only dream of.

17 The Reality of it All is that reality TV is taking over the

networks and providing the drama to go along with it. We

spotlight some of the popular shows and why they appeal to so

many.

20 Off the Shelf books are worthy of adding to your list of

must reads. Who’s Vagina is it Anyway, Rhythm without Blues,

The Substance of Hope, and Tumbling are our picks for this

summer and fall.

21 Giving it All She’s Got, Macy Gray has made her much

anticipated come back and we‘re all ears and waiting for

more.

FOR HIM/HER

23 The Basics: Are necessities that help us all stay fly,

polished, and on top of things. We‘ve went in search of

beauty and grooming products that can keep us on top of our

game.

27 Fashion in the City: All work and no play can keep us

from stylin and profiling, but this is why we‘ve found

simple yet stylish look for both work and play.

FEATURES

31 Power Playas

Those who have the guts and know how to follow their

dreams and make it happen have been termed in our eyes

Power Playas. Dr. Syleecia Johnson, the visionaries of

Blame it on Hip Hop, powerhouse Dottery Washington,

matchmaker, Paul Carrick Brunson, and the diversity of

Dwight Ali Williams and Shawn Luckey shows us how it‘s

done and how to play the game on our own terms.

43 Notorious Elevation

Actor Dennis LA White is creatively paving his way in

Hollywood. The Notorious film star sat down with us to

give us the 411 on his career and where he is headed next.

44 Who’s Vagina is it Anyway

Our Editor-In-Chief shares with us an excerpt of her latest

release, Who’s Vagina is it Anyway? Yours or Mine?

46 Why You Need a Spending Plan

Financial Expert, Shay Oliveria shares with us why a

spending plan is necessary in today‘s economic times.

48 My Poeticwisdom

The poetic wisdom of poet, Katherine Rodriguez will

empower you to step forward and your purpose.

31 43

17

www.prominencemag.com l FALL 2010 I 4

www.nabfenyc.org

FOUNDER & PUBLISHER

Glenys C. Colclough EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Sandy Daley CREATIVE DIRECTOR Clarice Wright DESIGN & PRODUCTION

Evolve Media CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Shay Olivarria Sandy Daley Shawn Luckey Katherine Rodriguez INQUIRIES

General: [email protected] Advertising: [email protected] Story Ideas: [email protected] Feedback: [email protected] PROMINENCE Magazine is published bi-monthly by Evolve Media. All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced, stored in any kind of retrieval system, transmitted in any form or by any means without prior written permission of the publisher.

It’s more than a way of living; it’s a state of mind.

ON THE COVER

Paul Carrick Brunson The Modern Day Match Maker


mailto:[email protected]

…………

Publisher’s Letter


A Journey worth the Trip After what seemed like a year in labor, I finally gave birth. Of course

we all know that the normal time for a mother to deliver her child can

be as long as forty-eight hours, if not longer in some cases. But for

me, this process was a little different. It was tiring and often times so

overwhelming that I wanted to give up and not go through the

process of labor and delivery altogether. But, I also knew that I was

chosen. I was chosen to bring something special to life and no matter

how tired I was of the birthing process; I knew I needed to continue

the journey of bringing what I conceived to life. I could not give up;

not on myself or on the vision of bringing a dream to life.

That dream is Prominence Magazine. A dream that I have held on to

as a little girl; as I flipped through the pages of Essence Magazine.

Not realizing half the battle at that time, I am nowhere close to where

I want Prominence Magazine to be, but I am surely not at the

beginning stages either. No matter how many times I have wanted to

throw in the towel, I can stand proud and say this journey was

definitely worth the trip.

On the following pages of this premier issue, you will come to know

nine power playas who in their own right are paving the way. Taking

into their own hands their fate and creating the lives they desire and

deserve. Their undying commitment to their passion has fueled my

desire and I hope it will for you as well.

You will also learn how to create a spending plan that can help you

save for that rainy day. We all know in these tough economic times

that having an umbrella to stand under is the best way to stay

shielded from the rain.

I was also fortunate enough to have a one on one conversation with

Notorious film star, Dennis LA White, about his career in Hollywood,

what’s next for him and his ultimate goal for his future. The

conversation was enlightening, engaging, and revealing.

While this is the premier digital issue for Prominence Magazine, the print version will soon be in your hands with the January

issue of 2011. When I dream, I dream big and therefore I do not stop until my dreams are fully realized; which is probably

why I could not give up on the commitment I made to myself in bringing Prominence Magazine to life. If I had given up, I

would not have only shortchanged myself, but God as well, for he knows my ability and trusted me by placing this seed; a

dream I held on to as a little girl within me to birth.

This is only the beginning. I invite you to take this journey with me.

Enjoy the issue,

Glenys

PROMINENCE a : readily noticeable : CONSPICUOUS b : widely and popularly known : LEADING

http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/conspicuous

http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/leading

Contributors

Shay Olivarria is a motivational speaker, financial literacy coach, and author of 10

Things College Students Need to Know About Money and Money Matters: The Get It

Done in 1 Minute Workbook. As an ambassador for financial freedom, Shay travels all

over the country to educate people on responsible financial decisions.

www.biggerthanyourblock.com

Sandy Daley is an actress, radio and TV personality, and author. She lives for the

creative process and has most recently released her first novel, Who’s Vagina is it

Really? Her next project, Chocolate Dolls is a weekly television series that Sandy is

currently writing, is due out the end of 2010. She will serve as the executive producer

and writer.

www.sandydaley.com


Shawn Luckey is Diversity Players of Harlem's artistic director, and he actively writes,

directs, and produces plays and screenplays. As a performer, he has appeared in a number

of commercials, plays and movies. His theatrical credits include: Charles Fuller's A Soldier's

Play; Pearl Cleage's Blues for an Alabama Sky; and Craig Lucas' Prelude to a Kiss. Shawn’s

film credits include Spike Lee’s Miracle at St. Anna, and the much anticipated Tyler Perry

release For Colored Girls.

www.shawnluckey.com

Katherine Rodriguez found a way to escape her immediate surroundings in New York

through the art of writing. Her ambition to write poetry was developed more so as a form of

expression and to achieve a sense of freedom through written word. More often than not,

writing became a driving force for her motivation and self-empowerment. Today she

shares her talents to deliver a message of power and hope to those who struggle and at

times lack the faith to overcome.

www.mypoeticwisdom.com

Picture This

Vision brought to life in pictures

www.loveandhatephotography.tumblar.com


Your Ad Here Advertise with Prominence Magazine and reach your target market.

www.prominencemag.com :: [email protected]

http://www.prominencemag.com/


What’s Hot – Tech Gadgets

iPad

Is the Apple iPad the greatest thing since sliced bread? Well, we

seem to think so. With thousands of apps, a multi-touch screen,

vibrant color, and simplicity all in one cool, slick design; how could

one not become addicted to what it has to offer?

Apple is leading the pack in technology and will continue to set the

standard for providing consumers with what they need to stay

informed, entertained, and up on the latest. One should not wonder

what they will come up with next; for we all know it will something

many will desire and put to the test.

Zune

Zune is the premium digital experience that gives you

access to the latest in entertainment and technology,

allowing you to enjoy, connect, and discover content in

an entirely different way; the way you like it. When the

mood hits, you can browse, stream, buy, and play all the

music, HD videos, podcasts, games, and much more at

the touch of the screen. Gain the freedom to enjoy your

entertainment; the way you want to, on your terms.

Kindle

Reading just became trendy with the Amazon Kindle. Amazon

has given the avid book reader something to talk to about.

The Kindle gives you all you could ever need when it comes to

reading your favorite titles, all on one device. How genius is

that? Offering over 600,000 titles, the Kindle store has the

largest selection of the books, including New York Times®

Best Sellers and new releases from $9.99. There is no other

way to take reading the next level than with a Kindle by your

side.


Charleston, SC

Loving the Carolinas

Charleston, SC is known as one of the most popular southern destinations in the

country. A perfect gem nestled within in the south is one of the most romantic

cities one will ever visit. Rich in history and pride, Charleston, SC offers a travel

destination that can fulfill expectations to overflowing.

The districts of the city contain a wide variety of interesting locations and historical

landmarks. While in Charleston you can expect to find a rich combination of

hospitality and charm resonant of the "Old South." Whether it is the historic

houses, churches, or attractions of the Downtown and Historic Districts, the fine

cuisine found in the Mount Pleasant District, or any of the alluring landmarks found

in this city, expect to be entranced by the romanticism of this southern city.

Charleston is a place of much historical significance as it was a major landmark

during colonial times. The Historic District is the oldest part of town and a lot of the

buildings and houses have been preserved, sparking much architectural interest.

If you have ever wanted to make Charleston a travel destination, it will surely be

one of the best vacations you have ever experienced. Make Charleston, SC your

next get away and watch new adventures unfold.


Exploring all opportunities

Charleston Fun Facts

1.) Charleston boasts the first public college, museum and playhouse in the United States.

2.) George Gershwin composed his well known opera Porgy and Bess while living on Folly Beach, South Carolina. Porgy and Bess are buried in the James Island Presbyterian Church graveyard.

3.) The first game of golf played in the United States took place in Charleston, South Carolina.

THE 411 ENTERTAINMENT :: BOOKS :: MUSIC

Denzel Washington The IT Factor

The 411 ENTERTAINMENT :: BOOKS :: MUSIC

Denzel Washington‘s

IT Factor

enzel Washington has it. That it factor that

is so compelling in nature, that thousands across

the globe are drawn to the movie theaters to see

him in action. Men want to be like him, women

want to be with him; there is something about

him that has you curious and maybe even

daydreaming about his next move.

The A list actor, producer and director, continues

to add to his list of credible mentions as this

summer, he along with Viola Davis, appeared on

Broadway in August Wilson's play, Fences. With

each show nearing sold out capacity, it is very

clear that Denzel Washington has that it factor

that keeps fans coming back for more.

His start in film and television started like any

other actor seeking that big break, but it wasn‘t

until his role in the hospital drama, St.

Elsewhere, that his light in Hollywood began to

shine and pave the way.

We could not help, but take a look back at the

career of one of Hollywood‘s most recognized

faces and chronicle a career that will pave the

way for many to follow. What's next for Mr.

Washington, only time will tell, but here is a look

back at his extraordinary career in film to keep us

in awe of a talent that is worthy. May he

continue to follow the path that he was destined

to travel and provide us with more of that IT

factor.

Carbon Copy – 1981 A Soldier’s Story – 1984 Power – 1986 Cry Freedom – 1987 For Queen and Country – 1988 The Mighty Quinn – 1989 Glory – 1989 Heart Condition – 1990 Mo’ Better Blues – 1990 Mississippi Masala – 1991 Richochet – 1991 Malcolm X 1992 The Pelican Brief – 1993 Much Ado About Nothing - 1993

Philadelphia – 1993 Crimson Tide – 1995 Virtuosity – 1995 Hank Aaron: Chasing the Dream – 1995 Devil in a Blue Dress – 1995 Courage Under Fire – 1996

The Preacher’s Wife – 1996 Fallen – 1998 He Got Game – 1998 The Siege – 1998 The Bone Collector – 1999 The Hurricane – 1999 Remember the Titans – 2000 Training Day – 2001 John Q – 2002 Antwone Fisher – 2002 Out of Time – 2003 Man on Fire – 2004 The Manchurian Candidate – 2004

Inside Man – 2006 The Great Debaters – 2007 Déjà vu – 2006 The Taking of Pelham 123 – 2009 American Gangster – 2007 The Book of Eli – 2010


D

BY GLENYS COLCLOUGH

une 20, 2010 New York, NY – In retrospect, I must

say that watching Fences on Broadway was like staring

myself in the mirror as I began to evaluate my

relationship with my own father. From the First Act,

Denzel Washington grips the role of Troy Maxson with

a dose of that ―Denzel‖ flavor; but never losing sight

of delivering to audiences the flawed nature of Troy

Maxson. On one hand, Troy is a loving husband and

provider for his family. Yet, he‘s the loose thread

strand that unravels his family structure because of his

selfishness towards his wife Viola Davis‘ Rose; and

transparent disconnect with his son, Chris Chalk‘s

Cory and, older son Hornsby‘s Lyons.

By the Second Act, the baton was handed to Viola

Davis, as she took the loose thread strands and made

blanket to protect what was left of a decaying family

structure. Davis‘ performance was riveting at best and

made audiences crave for more as she brought the

family to resolve at curtain. The rest of the cast was

rounded out by talented veteran actors Mykelti

Williamson and Stephen McKinley Henderson, also

alternating performances by child actors Eden Duncan-

Smith and SaCha Stewart-Coleman. Collectively, the

cast made it apparent why Fences received this year‘s

Tony Award for Best Play Revival.

This year‘s newly Tony Award winners Davis and

Washington both gave everything they had to bring

―truth and honor‖ to the roles that late playwright,

August Wilson so eloquently penned.

At press time, Fences on Broadway tickets were being sold at Cort

Theater until July 11, 2010.

Photo by Joan Marcus

Russell Hornsby (Far l.) explains to his father,

Washington’s Troy Maxson (l.), his life shortcomings as

Henderson’s Bono and Davis’s Rose look on intently.


J

FATHER’S DAY TO FENCES FOREVER BY SHAWN LUCKEY


The emergence of reality TV started in 1992,

with MTV setting up seven twenty-some things

in a trendy New York City apartment with

cameras to follow them and watch their every

move. That widely popular reality show, The

TV: The Reality of it All

Real World New York set the stage and foundation for many reality based television shows to follow.

Since that time, over eighteen years ago, reality TV has taken the networks by storm. If you are addicted

to reality TV, here are a few our favorite picks.

The Real House Wives of Atlanta

We have to give it to these Georgia Peaches, they know how to keep it real by giving thousands of fans

exactly what they want; a weekly dose of drama. Surely drama never looked so good as these five

fashionable, savvy and tell it like it is socialites turn Atlanta on its head and Bravo heading straight to the

bank.


Fantasia for Real

American Idol winner, Fantasia allows us to have a

front row seat to her life as cameras show her life as

Fantasia the artist and Fantasia the mother, daughter,

sister and provider for her family. Fantasia has shown

a side of herself that is not often viewed behind the

cameras. She is caring, loving and supportive as she

strives to pull her family together and maintain her

singing career.

Kimora Life In The Fab Lane

Kimora Lee Simmons in all her fabulocity, is back

on the Style Network handling business like none

other. With the new addition to her family, husband

Dijmon and son Kenzo, Kimora proves women can

have it all.

Celebrity Fit Club

Heading towards its eighth season, Celebrity Fit

Club shows us that celebrities have weight issue too

and have committed themselves to shedding the

weight in front of the camera. What we like about

Celebrity Fit Club has nothing to do with Dr. Ean

Smith or Harvey‘s drill sergeant demeanor; it‘s the

inspiration CFC is giving others to take control of

their lives and weight.

Keeping Up With The Kardashians

Like them or not, you have to give it to them. The

Kardashians/Jener bunch knows how to keep us entertained.

With their over the top moments, jet-setting and family bonding

moments Keeping up with the Kardashians on the E! Network

will have you wanting to keep up with what‘s next.


Notorious

Elevation A Conversation with Dennis LA White

Would like to Congratulate the Cast & Crew of Suzette Azariah Gunn’s

Spare Change

For admittance into HBO’s 11th Annual NY International Latino Film Festival

Rhythm Without Blues Dr. Syleecia Thompson Most of us only hear about the success stories of

those who’ve been fortunate to have made

it. But what did these artists have to go through

in order to reach fame and fortune? This tell-all

book exposes the dark side of the R&B music

industry; the greed, manipulation and deceit.

Everything comes to light in this book and it also

offers hope and sensible solutions to picking up

the pieces and saving the soul of R&B.

The Substance of Hope William Jelani Cobb The Substance of Hope, a deeply insightful,

paradigm-shifting examination of a new

generation of voters that has not been shaped by

the raw memory of Jim Crow and has a different

range of imperatives. Cobb sees Obama's

ascendancy as "a reality that has been taking

shape in tiny increments for the past four

decades." Elegantly written and powerfully

argued, The Substance of Hope challenges

conventional wisdom as it offers original insight

into America's future.

Who’s Vagina Is It Really? Sandy Daley One of the most prolific and modern-day writers,

Sandy Daley has put forward some solutions in

Whose Vagina is it really? The writer urges

women to “Love yourself before anyone else;

but love him wholeheartedly if you have chosen

him. If you want him and he is worth it and he is

the One then love him the right way.”

Tumbling Diane Mckinney-Whetstone

Sunday morning in South Philly,

according to McKinney-Whetstone, is

"like buttermilk," with "a quiet

smoothness to it." The same can be

said of this remarkable novel; a gentle

portrait of an African American

community in South Philadelphia in

the 1940s and '50s, the story probes

beneath its residents' lives to tell a

powerful tale of damage and healing.

Noon is a Florida preacher's daughter

too scarred from a secret childhood

incident to let a man touch her; her

husband, Herbie, is a redcap who met

her when he was a hepcat jazz

drummer touring with fiery singer

Ethel. When newborn Fannie and,

five years later, Ethel's five-year-old

orphan niece, Liz, are abandoned on

Noon and Herbie's doorstep, the

embrace of community allows the

creation of a family.

This novel first printed in 1996 is

coming back to life with a second

edition. Pick up your copy and

become apart of an era and family

you will very much feel apart of.

Off The Shelf




After a three year hiatus, Macy Gray is back with her

highly anticipated album, The Sellout. Featuring 12

new songs, which were co-written and executive

produced by none other than Gray herself.

Collaborations with Bobby Brown, The Bodyrockers'

Kaz James and Slash, Duff McKagan and Matt Sorum

formerly of Guns N' Roses and Velvet Revolver, all

make her come back worthwhile.

From the opening cords on the first single, the

irresistibly "Beauty In The World", it is clear that The

Sellout is the work of an artist who has reconnected

with the essence of her creative gifts after a long,

soul-numbing journey through the music biz's star-

making machinery.

Filled with sparkling melodies and personal lyrical

insights, The Sellout is an authentic and confidently

delivered statement from one of contemporary music's

most skillful and creative voices.

Highlights throughout the album are rich and plentiful

including the alluring, soul-pop groove of "Lately",

"That Man" a mouth-watering slice of Ting Ting's

inflected 80's new-wave, the Joan Jett meets T- Rex

thump and screaming Slash guitar of "Kissed It", and

the beguiling, "Still Hurts", a vulnerable, emotion filled

keep-sake ballad.

Gray has kept her appeal and distinctive voice intact;

a gift that sets her apart from all the rest. She has

given it all she’s got and we gladly accept.

Macy Gray Giving it All She’s Got


He/She it’s not complicated

The Basics Keeping it simple with what

you need to stay fly, polished

and on point.

He/She

John Varvatos Vintage $58.00 Bobbi Brown beach Body Scrub $35.00 Kenzo Flower $92.00 Jack Black Clean Formula Face Bar & Shave Soap $14.00

the basics



Fresh Brown Sugar Body Polish $65.00 Peter Thomas Roth Complexion Correction Pads $36.00 Liquid Metal $26.00 Tweezerman Animal Print Slant Tweezers $25.00

FASHION IN THE CITY Steppin Out in Style

All Work…


Canali www.canali.it

& A lot of Play.


Casual Classy Let your imagine lead you.

Stylin &…


ASANTE DENIM DRESS WITH AFRICAN PRINT LINED BATWINGS www.bestowelan.com


Profilin.


TIMA TOGA www.bestowelan.com

POWER

PLAYAS

hat more can a woman do once she has done about everything within her field of work?

Anything, according to Dr. Syleecia Thompson. With three degrees, a BS in Economics, MBA and a

Doctorate in Business; Dr. Thompson is inspired and driven by the belief that anything is possible if

you work hard and think big. Based on these credentials and a ‗multi-task with a multi-purpose‘

mentality, Dr. Thompson set out to seek her greatest passion: teaching. She has taught everything

from Algebra, Public Relations, and Leadership; all at college level.

As the daughter of legendary soul singer Syl Johnson and older sister of Grammy-nominated R&B

singer Syleena Johnson, it was natural for Dr. Thompson to incorporate her teaching and leadership

skills into music. Dr. Thompson gained a deep passion for R&B music watching her father and sister

record, but became disturbed by the lack of respect for the genre and artists who contribute great

music to the art form. Driven by passion and fueled with a go-getter attitude, this scholar decided to

seek out the soul of a fading genre by authoring Rhythm Without Blues.

As a teacher, manager, president, and author Dr. Thompson shows no signs of slowing down. Dr.

Thompson recently wrote for the Encyclopedia of African-American Music soon to be published

under Greenwood Press. Her entry focused on black music in Chicago from 1942 through today and

covered several genres of music. She even looks forward to publishing another booked titled The Leader Who Follows: Successful Strategies for Leading in Any Capacity. Respectfully, Dr.

Thompson has proven she can apply herself to any situation with precision and win at all costs.

Dr. Syleecia Thompson


W

o love Hip-Hop culture is to constantly be

playing defense. From right-wing radio hosts to

politicians in both parties, from hard-core white

racists to leaders within communities-of-color,

from academia, the media and beyond—Hip-Hop

is never lacking in both criticisms and critics.

And while some of that criticism is indeed valid—

and necessary—it can be exhausting for Hip-Hop

heads to have to defend the walls of our culture at

all hours. We can point out the positive, socially-

conscious Hip-Hop artists, we can illustrate the

impact that Hip-Hop arts programs have made in

communities across the world, and we can talk

endlessly about the culture‘s potential for positive

change, but it never seems to be good enough.

While BIOHH creates clothing designs that are

capable of sparking discussion in and of

themselves, they are not content at stopping there.

By speaking to students about the power of

entrepreneurialism, talking to teachers and parents

about the positive aspects of Hip-Hop culture and

even donating a percentage of their net profits to

active students, they have developed a business

that is generating a tremendous buzz in Hip-Hop

circles for all the right reasons.

While Hip-Hop clothing lines are a dime a dozen

these days, BIOHH continues to shine because, aside

from making fresh clothes, the brand is an example of

Hip-Hop entrepreneurs who are driven by something

much more than pure capitalism, they are about

action.

These five friends from Minneapolis are about

making an explicit, productive and powerful impact

through sparking dialogue, putting our money where

our mouths are, and making it okay to look good

while feeling good. Not unlike clothing, social

consciousness and Hip-Hop activism come in many

different styles; BIOHH is one that people must take

note of.

From left to right; James Cheatham, Johari Moten,

Richard Strong, Marcus Manning

BIOHH

Blame it on Hip Hop


T

Dottery Washington

A Woman Who Dares to Dream or a woman who dares to dream in tough economic times, the odds can be stacked against her. But

for Dottery Washington, going against those odds is exactly what she needed to keep her dream alive

and her passion for bringing it to life on fire. Taking her vision; one that would scare many from

attempting it and stepping out on faith has proven to her that anything you put your mind to you can

achieve.

Based in Waldorf, MD, Washington‘s vision is the Charles County SportPlex and Learning Center. A

5.6 million dollar facility offering a first-class fitness and lifestyle center, two full-size basketball

courts, a food and beverage/lounge area, a learning center, teen center, competition and leisure

swimming pool, tennis court, racquetball, outdoor track, football, baseball, soccer field, and a host of

other amenities. The facility is bound to enhance the quality of life, promote health, and be an

exceptional place for all ages. Although still in the planning stages, Washington‘s vision is coming to

life; with several political and community leaders rallying behind her.

Having a love and strong desire to see her community flourish and offer a place where all can come to

maintain their health, learn and grow; Washington is paving a way for many who dare to dream, to do

something about it. She is surely an example of what stepping out on faith looks like and we‘re proud

to say she is surely a Power Playa.


F

nown as the modern-day ―Hitch‖, for the past 10 years, Paul Carrick Brunson has played matchmaker

and relationship coach to various friends and family members. After numerous successes in helping those

close to him find happy and long lasting relationships, he decided to turn his hobby into a full-fledged

business, OneDegreefrom.Me.

Paul‘s unparalleled ability for successful matchmaking and coaching comes from really knowing and

understanding his clients and their needs. Like his clients, he is cultured, well-educated,

and trained. He holds a graduate degree from a top business school and is a certified life coach. His

professional career started as an investment banker and most recently included a senior position with top

international investment firm.

He is also a philanthropist who co-founded and chairs a foundation called the L10 Project, an

organization that leads school rebuilding and revitalization projects in the U.S. and Caribbean. Paul

believes that happy relationships are the foundation of a well-functioning society and has a personal desire

to reverse some of the dismal marriage statistics among many communities.

OneDegreeFrom.Me has been featured in Redbook Magazine, the Atlanta Journal Constitution,

Complete Woman Magazine, Clutch Magazine, on ABC News and in popular blogs including

The Black Snob, Very Smart Brothas and Naked With Socks On. Paul also developed the popular series

"The Modern Day Matchmaker" on YouTube as well as "The Modern Day Matchmaker LIVE: Real

Relationship Talk" tour.

Unlike many other relationship coaches and matchmakers who are single or ―serial spouses‖, Paul has been

happily married to his beautiful wife, Jill, for eight years. Not only does his knowledge of what it takes to

have a happy marriage influence his matchmaking ability, but he also leverages his professional network

to enhance the matches of his clients.

Paul Carrick Brunson

The Modern Day Matchmaker


K

mong the hordes of theater companies that call New York City home, lies an organization that is on

pace to becoming a staple in the global arts community. The organization, Diversity Players of Harlem,

consists of producing co-founders Shawn Luckey and Dwight Ali Williams. This odd pairing of sorts

has successfully created a winning formula for dozens of productions. Williams, a former child actor

detoured into corporate America, however; he left Los Angeles for New York City to pursue his passion

for the stage. In 2005, after a chance meeting with former law school student Shawn Luckey, Williams

became one-third of a business venture that resulted in Luckey directing the company‘s first production.

After a former business partner parted ways, Luckey and Williams made DPOH Entertainment (the

company‘s moniker) an official general partnership. In five years, the dynamic duo has produced stage

plays, music revues, industry seminars and networking events, and more recently, short films. Many of

their stage productions have run the full gamut from classic plays like Charles Fuller‘s A Soldier Play

and Harold Pinter‘s The Birthday Party to an Off-Broadway stage production of Marq Overton‘s Die

Laughing, an original one-man dramatic play about a comedian‘s bout with breast cancer. According to

the theater company‘s mission statement, the pair plans to collaborate with more artists and

entertainment professionals to meet their objective of creating more lucrative opportunities for children

and non-traditional artist.

At press time, Diversity Players of Harlem‘s 2010-11 theater season was slated to open with Love’s

Gonna Get Ya! Tickets are being sold for this production and the season at diversityplayersofharlem.com

with special offers.

Shawn Luckey & Dwight Ali Williams

Dynamic Duo of Diversified Drama


A

Notorious

Elevation A Conversation with Dennis LA White

career leads him to producing and directing. His quest is to

bring forth more classic films under his production company,

Riot Gear Entertainment.

Building a foundation to leave his legacy upon, Dennis‘

vision for where he ultimately wants to take his career leads

him to producing and directing. His quest is to bring forth

more classic films under his production company, Riot Gear

Entertainment.

When asked what advice he could give to aspiring actors, he

says with an assurance of where he‘s come from, ―seek

opportunities to build your body of work, surround yourself

with other actors, and use the three P‘s; prayer, perseverance,

and persistence.‖ By the end of our conversation, I was not

only impressed, but inspired by his determination.

Dennis‘s upcoming projects include the film, Changing the

Game and the play, Die Laughing. One can only hold on to

hope for having a career in Hollywood, and seeing evident

proof in White‘s career proves it can happen for anyone at

anytime.

budding star in the mist of experiencing his

career in full bloom, Dennis LA White is on the verge of

exploring new territory that is bound to move him to another

level in Hollywood; a level that many seek to explore, but

never gain the opportunity to have. On a recent trip to New

York, Dennis interviewed with Prominence Magazine to talk

about his career and what‘s next on his journey of breaking

barriers and staking his claim.

Unless you have held a conversation with Dennis, you will

never know how polite and well spoken he really is. Seeing

him on the screen, in a variety of roles, could never compare or

add up to whom he really is; a man with a desire for living what

he is passionate for, and that is using the talents he‘s been

blessed with to pave the way for those who come after him to

follow.

When one thinks of Dennis LA White, they may most recently

remember him from his role as Diamond ‗D-Rock‘ Butler in

the 2009 biopic Notorious. But, this North Carolina native has

formulated a career path that will place him among the rising

stars in the industry. Building a foundation to leave his legacy

upon, Dennis‘ vision for where he ultimately wants to take his

A

BY GLENYS COLCLOUGH


Who‘s Vagina is it Anyway? Yours or Mine? BY SANDY DALEY

s he serious? Did he really just ask me, ―Whose is it

baby?‖ Tell me that it is mine! After all this time of not

hearing from him? Obviously I am going to tell him that

the vagina belongs to him at this moment in time. I was

certainly not going to ruin a good sex session! With this

question, which has been directed to me on numerous

occasions, it then got me thinking; if I was such a dynamite

chick, according to this lover on the phone, why am I still

single?

―Then again, did I really even want a man? I certainly did

not need one! To be quite honest, I have never met a man

that has done anything for me that I cannot do for myself.

Hence, ―Whose vagina is it really?‖ was born, and have

created nothing less than a phenomena. From gut busting

laughter, to outright shock at the title, this little book of

mine has stirred up strong feelings amongst both sexes.

Perfect! I am the king of the World!

Was I too independent? Too strong-willed? Too stubborn?

Why am I still single and I ―don‘t have a tree in my face,‖

as we say. ―Did I want too much? No, I did not,‖ I decided.

But I, like most women, want more out of life than just the

occasional, ―Whose is it baby?‖ I would sometimes answer

with a smart- assed comment, and ladies, try this as well,

―Yours baby, if you pay the light bill, the mortgage, the car

note and buy some groceries. Now do you still want it?‖

See what his response is and that will tell you what he

really wants from you.

Walking the streets these days is also a challenge, as my

male friends and associates only ask me one thing on the

very first sight of seeing me. ―So Sandy, a fi mi or what?‖

At least the men are talking right? If I have accomplished

getting a dialogue started between men and women, then

this book will serve its purpose, as we rarely communicate.

―This is not your typical sappy self help book for women,

where you are constantly looking for a Mr. Right,‖ I say to

my friends, while they lovingly ask me every day about its

release. ―I know that,‖ said my girlfriend Janice.

I ―If this book is anything like your articles, then I need to

pre-order mine right now! Its www.Sandydaley.com

right?‖ she queried. ―Yes, Janice, order right now,‖ I

laughed out loud, realizing that I had some neurotic, but

very supportive girlfriends.

Use what you have to get what you want out of life; of

course without losing your self-respect and of

maintaining control of your own life, is what I encourage

in this book. The funny thing though, is that we all have

the power but unfortunately, do not know how to use it

wisely. ―If only you ladies knew how simple men are,‖

said a male friend of mine recently. We are not as

complicated as women,‖ he went on to say. All you have

to do is rub our heads and you get all that you want.‖

―Which head was he referring to though?‖ was my inner

question as I wiggled my nose like Sabrina the teenage

witch.

―Whose Vagina is it really? asks the question but it is up

to the readers to answer for themselves. The best answer,

in my opinion that I ever received from a male friend of

mine is, ―Yours of course Sandy, but mine to play with if

you let me!‖ After a gut busting laugh and of course

almost choking on the gum that I had in my mouth, I

fully agreed with his statement. Needless to say, I still

converse regularly with this recognizes that I am in

charge and he really is just a squirrel trying to get a nut in

my world! Or am I the squirrel trying to get his to his

nuts? Now that is the million dollar question!

www.prominencemag.com l FALL 2010 l 45

http://www.sandydaley.com/


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ave you ever pulled a $20 out of the ATM and two

hours later you have no idea how you spent the money?

That‘s why you need a spending plan. Most of us spend

small amounts of money every day on things that we don‘t

even remember buying. That $1 soda at work takes up

$240 a year. How many times have you walked into a store

to grab 1 thing and come out with way more than just 1

thing? All this extra spending on small things is part of the

reason you may be in debt.

Having a spending plan is a way to help you recognize

what you‘ve been spending your money on and what

changes you may want to make. It works like this:

1) Go through your bank statements and credit card

statements. Put the money you spent in categories so you

can see what you spent your money on. I use a software

program because it‘s easier than writing everything down.

Notice all the money that you spent on non-essential items.

2) Don‘t freak out when you see how much money you

waste every month.

3) Make a list of your fixed expenses; the bills that you

have to pay every month. For example, your rent/mortgage,

lights, water, gas, car insurance, credit cards, etc.

4) Make a list of your variable expenses; the bills that you

have to pay sometimes. For example, your yearly payment

for your magazine subscriptions, your quarterly tax

payments if you‘re self employed, etc.

5) Make a line on your list that says, ―me‖. You are going

to start paying yourself every month just like you pay

everyone else. Creating, or adding to, an emergency fund is

one of the main reasons you need a spending plan. Take all

that money you‘ve been wasting and put it into an account

that you can use when you‘re in a jam. I suggest trying to

build up 6 – 12 month‘s worth of income. When an

emergency comes, and there will

always be an emergency, you‘ll be ready.

6) Make a line that says, ―retirement‖. I don‘t care if you

haven‘t even opened a retirement account and you can only

put $5 in it. You‘re going to start putting money aside for

your old age. As your account swells with cash you can

take time to think about where you‘d like to invest it. The

first step is to start. The more you put away now, the less

you‘ll have to worry later. Compound interest will make a

huge difference in your retirement lifestyle.

7) Whatever money you have left, go wild! You know what

your fixed expenses will cost every month, what your

upcoming variable expenses will be, you‘ve put money

away for your emergency fund, and you‘re started

contributing to your retirement account. The money left

over is called your ―discretionary income‖.

If you find that you don‘t have enough income to cover all

your expenses listed on your spending plan, then you have

two choices. You‘re going to have to increase your income

or reduce your expenses and no, cutting out saving for your

emergency fund and/or your retirement fund are not

options.

You are responsible for your life. You have the power to be

financially stable, or not, by making smart choices…… and

that‘s why you need a spending plan.

Why You Need a $pending Plan BY SHAY OLIVERIA

H


http://quicken.intuit.com/basic-money-management/index.jsp

http://quicken.intuit.com/basic-money-management/index.jsp

http://squarerootz.net/money-matters-plan-ahead/

http://biggerthanyourblock.wordpress.com/2010/01/20/we-all-have-agency/

http://biggerthanyourblock.wordpress.com/2010/01/20/we-all-have-agency/

The first print issue of Prominence Magazine will be with the January 2011 issue.

Join our mailing list to stay current with what’s

happening in our world [email protected].

My Poeticwisdom

By Katherine Rodriguez

I had to go through it

I had to loose it in order to find it

I had to fall to learn how to stand

I had to cry to learn the desire to laugh

I had to learn how to be a woman in order to appreciate a man

I had to humble myself to be exalted

I had to break down to figure out that something was wrong

I had to be in need to learn how to ask for help

I had to be weak to then be strong

I had to feel dumb in order to realize that there was more to learn

I had to feel defeated in order to learn that I was fighting a war

I had to loose the game to realize that I had to make more of an effort to score

I had to confront myself to take focus off of others

I had to stop laboring to understand how to work effectively

I had to struggle to appreciate the gain

I had to do wrong to learn how to do correctly

I had to go through some tests to have a testimony

I had to have trials to be triumphant

I had to fall to be in a position to pray

I had to feel like I had nothing to motivate myself to get something

I had to suffer consequences to learn not to do it again

I had to be ignored to learn how to give

I had to get tired of being tired

I had to die to my flesh in order to live

Katherine Rodriguez©

www.mypoeticwisdom.com



In the End

iving life on purpose; this has been sitting in my

heart and mind a great deal lately. I for one am grateful,

I‘ve taken steps of faith and watched God do some great

things because of my faith action, one of which was the

establishment of the nonprofit I co-founded with my best

girlfriend, Theda Rose. Theda and I both have a passion

for young women and out of mere conversation and a

resonating of hearts we took a step of faith and

established S.A.V.Y-Successful and Victorious Youth,

Inc., a national nonprofit whose mission is to inspire girls

to reach their full potential and motivate them towards

excellence, www.savygirls.org.

I have always tried to live a purpose driven life, reflecting

on the specific gifts, talents and abilities that have been

deposited in me and then aligning vocational and even

entrepreneur aspirations with those gifts and passions in

mind. So Theda and I start our nonprofit and we have

touched the lives of hundreds of girls and are now

leaving a legacy to touch more; but make no mistake

about it, living the purpose driven life comes with a price

and you must be absolutely sure you are willing to pay it.

What‘s the price you pay for living this purpose driven

life? Quite often, it‘s maintaining your dreams and

aspirations when there is no one or nothing to affirm you

or motivate you and many times walking the road alone!

But I say and can attest to the fact that it is quite worth it.

It‘s important to be authentic to whom you are and how

you were created and living a purpose driven life requires

this. One thing I strive to do is keep in the company of

like minded individuals. It can be quite challenging to

maintain living a life of purpose if you constantly

surround yourself with individuals who don‘t know what

their purpose in life is and have absolutely no interest in

finding out. We have to live our days intentionally and

really stay focused on the purpose driven life we are

trying to achieve.

For each of us that will be something different; for me

it is pursuing and cultivating my skills and talents for

other entrepreneur ventures, as well as getting back to

the very simple things I so love to do and have gotten

away from. For you it may be starting that business

that has been sitting in your heart for years, taking

that dream vacation--even it means taking it alone,

moving to that city that just gives you a sense of

peace and rest every time you think about it,

volunteering or whatever it is.

After having breast surgery last year, because of a

fibroid tumor in my left breast, which was begin, so I

was cancer free; but there are so many others whose

story is different, I realized as much as I had

accomplished, I still wasn‘t maximizing living my life

on purpose. Now be clear this isn‘t a get yourself

high because it‘s the beginning of a new year and

then all is forgotten come mid March but truly, make

a conscientious decision to live your life on purpose,

whatever you feel that purpose is because days are not

given back to us, they are simply numbered!

Living On Purpose BY KIMBERLY NICHOLS

L


In the Spotlight

Name: Terrence Zaahir AKA TZ Life

Date of Birth: August 15th

City: Philadelphia, PA

Occupation: Martial Arts Expert

His philosophy: To be the man God created

him to be and exhaust all capabilities.

Would like to extend Best Wishes to the Cast & Crew of Tony Clomax’s

New Romantic Comedy Webseries 12 Steps to Recovery

Prominence Magazine

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