It’s summer and it’s that time that all of our worries go out the window. Here is a jam that will automatically have you shaking your bum Enjoy!!

I hate the fact that I’m able to write only when I’m hurt, why can’t these feelings express themselves when I’m happy. I guess it wouldn’t be as interesting. More than ever I miss my dad. I really …I mean really miss him. It’s been nearly 12 years since he’s gone to Heaven. Unfortunately he didn’t get to see a lot of what I’ve achieved. My college graduation, my awards from my previous job and the birth of CCWC. I miss my dad, the only person in my life that was rational, I know he lives through my brothers especially the oldest, my goodness he is his spitting image, but my dad will always remain my dad.

That one person in life which sole purpose is to protect you from the world. His only little girl, daddy’s little girl. I miss him so much right now. His wisdom is incomparable. I still remember his subtle smile, that’s when you knew he was really happy inside. My dad wasn’t the kind who would laugh all the time, but that smile said so much. When he smiled it’s like the skies opened, no one could understand him but us. Though he was hard to please, he loved us very much.

He thought me about hard work, we’re talking about work from the time you wake up until the darkest of nights work. His family always came first, well second to God that is. pain? what pain? with one daughter and 3 sons he treated us equally no pain no gain period. “Man-up” …yep even I had to man-up. He thought us work ethics, integrity and loyalty. greatest qualities I could ever inherit from a man, that man…my dad.

I miss you dad. I miss you so much it hurts.

The world of fashion is a cut throat business and after going to many fashion shows in South Florida, I have concluded that it is truly a matter of competition, and how important it is to stand out. Sarahi, the name alone will spark an interest in any fashion critic’s mind.

I had the utmost privilege to witness the launch of Sarahi’s new signature line of “curves” jeans at their exclusive yacht party in Downtown Miami.

First I would like to point out Sarahi’s popularity derived from her gowns, showcasing a touch of sophistication and class, these masterpieces are certainly deemed red carpet worthy.

The models exquisitely dressed definitely well represented the brand and demonstrated their skills at a professional level. Designer Suzette Kelly Of Sarahi House of Fashion is truly a gem in this industry.

The second part of the show launched her brand new line of signature jeans which have the unique ability of highlighting a woman’s best feature and  were specifically designed to hide that pick-a-boo of our derriere; Perfectly hugging a woman’s curves at the right places, accentuating her silhouette while keeping the conservative look a trend. Hard work definitely pays off in this department, I surely will applaud the effort put in those jeans, the bright color patterns surely represented the fun and jolly atmosphere of Miami a great opening to the Spring Season. Let the record show that these Jeans are not size restricted, and will cater all women.

What stricken me the most is her passion for providing jobs where she resides. The Jeans are currently being manufactured here in the US of A,   She insisted to have a close supervision on her product and to assure that each item came out with the quality she publicizes, indeed having to touch and feel the material myself, I can assure you that she will definitely get satisfied clients for the product she delivers. An inside scoop leaked that she is actually speaking to major stores at the moment, certainly a joy to having to make a huge step so quickly. I am impatiently looking forward to seeing more of Sarahi and would like to wish my congratulations to Suzette Kelly and surely much success in her future endeavors.

Sarahi Jeans Launching party

The world of fashion is a cut throat business and after going to many fashion shows in South Florida, I have concluded that it is truly a matter of competition, and how important it is to stand out. Having to witness a fashion show on a yacht, totally takes the cake. However, my readers know that I keep it real so here we go:

LOVED that I actually had to be there on time and early to board, I was received by a courteous and friendly staff who made sure that I was directed to the right floor, I had a VIP ticket I wanted to make sure I get the full experience for you guys lol. the atmosphere was inviting, upscale just my kind of environment. As the night went on I DISLIKED the fact that the 4th floor was actually dedicated to the general admission, now let’s see we are talking upper deck, with the beautiful view of the sea and tall buildings in Miami, full access to the wonderful weather and get this, Boris Kodjoe and DJ Springer of Power 96 were actually on that floor. Now how I knew the 4th floor wasn’t VIP, one of the staff members pointed me to the general admission floor, and reiterated that the 3rd floor was VIP. DISLIKED that there were no distinction between VIP and general admission, I might as well had paid the $50 instead of the $75…moving on!

LOVED the additional touch of hors d’oeuvres served, the drinks were totally affordable and served with a smile. I kind of DISLIKED the fact that the cooked food was being sold, I think the food could have been included, not in big portions of course but as in “amuse bouches” big plates really weren’t necessary for that particular party.

As the night takes its course, the fashion show began with a bang! LOVED …LOVED…LOVED the gowns, the models exquisitely dressed definitely well represented the brand and demonstrated their skills at a professional level. Designer Suzette Kelly  Of Sarahi House of Fashion is truly a gem in this industry. The second part of the show launched her brand new line of signature jeans which have the unique ability of highlighting a woman’s best feature and  were specifically designed to hide that pick-a-boo of our derriere. Perfectly hugging a woman’s curves at the right places, accentuating her silhouette  while keeping the conservative look a trend. Hard work definitely pays off in this department, I surely will applaud the effort put in those jeans, the bright color patterns surely represented the fun and jolly atmosphere of Miami a great opening to the Spring Season. The only thing that was a bit awkward was the male model/actor who was pulling the other models towards him,  …my reaction and my surrounding’s reaction left us strangely speechless ..I just thought that last part wasn’t necessary. Congratulations to Suzette Kelly and surely much success to you in your future endeavors.

However, I DISLIKED the fact that Boris acted like a tool, there comes a time a celebrity needs to remind him or herself that the fans made you, acting like a complete tool doesn’t do it for his image, he looked miserable the whole night, sitting in his little corner and only getting up for pictures that he didn’t even smile in. I had more fun speaking to DJ Springer then I had speaking to Boris. I will keep my comments to myself but goodness!  By the way shout out to DJ Springer…LOOOOOVE and MISS your show on Power 96!

Last but not least, LOVED the boat, LOVED the company, LOVED the networking and LOVED the music…however DISLIKED the fact that the advertised flyer said “hosted” by Boris when he was sitting there the whole time not doing anything, Boris you are cute and all but I really expected more from you, these days looking cute doesn’t do it for me anymore lol. While I returned to my car, a few guests, returning from the party as well, were expressing their disappointment in Boris also however they were happy with the fashion show. I would not have said it if it wasn’t’ true.

Finally overall I gave this experience a  . Great friends, great music, great food, awesome show! Until next time!!

I had the utmost privilege to meet a wonderful artist by the name of Milca..before I go on I have to say that she has definitely exceeded my expectations, her personality alone says it all. This is why artists in this industry become successful, they stay humble and connect with people, particularly their fans.

You may know her for her ever so popular zouk song “simplement” ..every time this song comes on I can’t help myself but to dance on the spot.

On another note Milca is extremely talented, a natural at her craft. She has been in love with music at a very young age and never looked back since. Though she may have been brought up in French Guyane, she is every so proud to call herself a Haitian descendent. She recently resides in France yet travels the world performing for her fans coast to coast.

Her new released album named “Par Amour” surely is a knockout, I can tell that each song was meticulously and strategically engineered. Her voice alone is just pure melody to your ears. A true delight, inside and out! Check out my in dept interview with her on 5 sur 5 TV. In the mean time enjoy her video “La Vie va donner” featuring Passi.

Angela Smith and I

As a producer myself I certainly can appreciate the effort put in such beautiful spectacle. 4 Seasons of Fashion was certainly a breath of fresh air, a new twist to art presentation. Who has ever heard of a fashion play?! Well this is where the innovative mind of Angela “Aguy” Smith comes to life. From beginning to end I stayed at the edge of my seat (well not because it was also cold outside and that was just my little way of staying warm but…) the show had substance, I mean true substance where you actually learn something.

The 4 seasons were not just the mere Spring, Summer, Fall and Winter fashion show…no not at all but instead a voyage through history. It brought us back to the motherland..Mama Africa, where our ancestors elevated as kings and queens were ripped from their home to end up in the western hemisphere  reduced to slavery forced to raise future generations in the foreign lands of the Americas. However, you can definitely see where we came from, what we have gone through and where we are, a new wave is about to rise, a new era for the children of Africa..certainly a brighter future to look forward to. Though it was through art and fashion Aguy and her team from the Dezign Nation certainly accomplished what most could not in the fashion world.

Stichiz and I

Designers well represented, each piece were unique and definitely wearable in this day and age. Classy, elegant and fabulous.  The style of presentation was definitely different as it was not your typical runway show, yet it left us all entertained by gaining a new appreciation for the world of fashion.

Hosted by Haitian American Artist Stichiz and Narrated by Actress Nichole A. Joubert both ladies took us for a beautiful Journey with performances in between that would leave you in awe. More pictures can be viewed on the 5 sur 5 TV show Facebook page. Enjoy this little clip that I happen to capture from my phone..yes my phone (don’t judge me LOL) :

Photography provided by 5 sur 5 TV and Ronald Marc Photography

This is one of the moments that pride has certainly taken over me, we are undeniably making our mark in the world as Haitians. Initiated last year, the project has impressively shed more light on our dear country in so many positive ways:

“The Haiti Week Committee charged with organizing and implementing all aspects of Haiti Week, is made up of representatives from the business and not for profit sector. All the charities involved work directly on the ground in Haiti and are headquartered here in Ireland.[...]The objective of this gathering of people and organizations is to stimulate ideas and generate funds to assist Haiti’s development. This development is viewed by the committee on both a humanitarian level and also to facilitate the country’s prosperity in terms of business and investment.”

Privileged to be connected with some of Miami’s influential people, my dear friend Jimmy Moise, CEO and founder of H Media Management, I felt compelled to bring you news from Dublin Ireland through his exploits. Below is an excerpt of his experience with some of Haiti Major names in the industry:

HAITIAN TOP CHEF DAVID DESTINOBLE AND ARTIST MIKABEN TOOK IRELAND BY STORM LAST NIGHT AT THE HAITI WEEK COOKERY DINNER PARTY WITH CELEBRITY IRISH CHEF CLODAGH MCKENNA IN DUBLIN IRELAND. FOR INFO VISIT WWW.CLODAGHMCKENNA.COM AND HAITIWEEK.ORG
CE LA POU’W TE LA !!!!!! – Jimmy Moise

Dear Readers,

 HAPPY NEW YOU!!!  No doubt you met some of your fitness goals last year, but still have a bit of a ways to go.  No need to go through semantics; let’s get right down to business.

Gainfully employed, underemployed, or unemployed, no matter what your situation you realize that eating healthy costs a whole lot more money than eating junk food. The situation can become even direr for those of us who prefer to eat organic foods.  Having a skinny wallet is NO excuse to keep on consuming a fattening diet.  It’s certainly no excuse to dress like the next potential candidate for a makeover on “What Not to Wear.”

When it comes to my savvy shopping ways, I have picked up a few tips worth sharing.

1. 1.       Mix old with new

I try not to follow fashion trends too much, some things look good on me and others don’t.  I keep pieces in my closet that look good on me and can be mixed with new purchases to create an entirely new outfit. I am not saying to throw fashion out the window, but you need to understand who you are, what your body shape is, and what fits for you.  When it comes to choosing what fashion fads to follow, be sure to make an informed decision

1. 2.       Thrift Stores

Surprisingly enough, people often sleep on the great deals they can get at their local thrift store.  I’ve scored some great boots, skirts, sweaters, and even a hat at my local Goodwill store. Keep an eye out for any thrift stores in your neighborhood and be sure to take your time, there is always a lot of inventory to browse through.

1. 3.       Sign up for emails

A lot of your favorite department stores have switched to electronic couponing.  If you sign up to receive their emails, you can receive coupons directly to your smart phone which can be scanned at the register.  If the coupon can’t be scanned, often you are provided with a code to give the cashier to redeem your savings.

1. 4.       Swap Parties

One of my friends recently invited me to her annual swap party.  Each attendee had to go through their closet and pick out clothes, accessories, shoes, and purses they don’t wear anymore.  Everything had to be washed, placed on a hanger, and dropped off at the venue 1 week prior to the swap.  Now let me be clear, do not bring stuff that either has holes on it, a weird stain, or that’s not worthy on passing on to someone else.  Pick out items from your closet that if your good friend came over, you would offer it  to them  as a great piece to add to their collection.  Add to that, great food, a splash of wine, some awesome music, and you are in for a great night of shopping where you don’t have to break out your wallet! I have actually picked up some classic pieces at these parties that enhance my wardrobe.

I have more tips to share, so this will be a continuing series.  Look for parts 2 and possibly 3 coming soon!

Yours in Health,

Dr. Cynthia Jean, Pharm.D.

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Pianist extraordinaire talks about his future endeavors and working with legendary music producer Quincy Jones. Be blessed David and congratulations on all your new adventures Enjoy this next video and just in case you missed it check out my interview with David Sides here

This is probably the first time I have ever seen myself in a picture where the man next to me actually has an impact on how I feel. This may come as strange for you but the man in the mask is a complete stranger. I was invited to a masquerade ball to celebrate the new year on saturday December 30th and for the first time I felt special ( I mean is it wrong?) .

This is how it happened, I usually go to events alone that you already know, it’s late my main objective is to park the car, get there, spend an hour and leave, no I’m not a party animal, I don’t even like parties that much and if I’m there you know I’m working…so fast forward: I finally get to park the car about 2 blocks away, I’m walking to the place of course uttering my little prayer that I get there safely in the streets of Fort Lauderdale. As I arrived of course I was about to enter the wrong door so the nice lady directs me to the main entrance. Walking towards such, a limo stops to drop a group of people off that were also invited to the party, making my way to the door I’m thinking the group of men in black were also part of the herd:

“Excuse me..Pardon me” as I scurry along to get to the stairs…I wasn’t fast enough, this young man comes in front of me and asks:
-”are you alone?”
-”yes”
so he offers his arm as he stood 6 feet tall in front of me with a million dollar smile. I couldn’t explain it, but no man has ever done this for me, made me feel like a lady, made me feel important, though he was just doing his job, but if my skin were lighter I assure you that you could have seen the red transformation.

It wasn’t the man himself, it was what he represented, as you can see he is wearing a mask, so he could have been anyone. What if a man like that really existed for me? What if a 6 foot, handsome stallion came along and actually did love me, cherish me, and made me the center of his world? So many questions..

What could have been…open your heart they say, love is not a sentiment that I’m thrilled to reckon with. When the mind only knows hurt, it feels strange around what feels RIGHT. Therefore all I really wanted to say is kudos to all the couples who stick it out, who work it through, marriage is not easy, it’s work but the kind of work that can really make you or break you. I’m not sure if true love will ever happen to me but I applaud all those who are brave enough to go through it.

Here is to your happiness!!!!!!!

Photo by SJ