Jet Magazine’s Brand Spankin’ New Look Hit Stands With The Stars Of ‘Fruitvale Station’
Jet magazine, the self-proclaimed No. 1 African American weekly magazine, will hit stands in August with a brand spankin’ new look, reports Chicago Business.
Jet mag’s new design will have a brighter cover, better placement of feature sections, a brand new logo, better quality photos, and more infographics. The mastermind behind this upgrade is Mitzi Miller, the magazine’s editor-in-chief since May 2011.
The only facet of the magazine that will remain the same is its small-booklet form. “[T]hey like it just the way it is,”added Chicago Business.
CEO Desiree Rogers is completely on-board with the move. “We have to continue to remain competitive in the business landscape,” Rogers told Chicago Business. “And that includes[…] constantly updating those publications, keeping them contemporary, keeping them fresh and continuing to please our existing customers.”
While the next revamped issue will have more pages, Jet magazine’s future page count will rely on the advertiser’s response.
Rogers is under a lot of pressure to keep Jet magazine’s circulation at more than 700,000 readers to please her advertisers. Figures for the last half of 2012 show that Jet reached 724,637 readers, which was down three percent from June 2012, according to a source in Chicago Business.
The three percent decrease does not seem to faze Rogers, though. She’s just content she’s surpassed the threshold and does not plan to spend extra marketing dollars until the readership drops below the 700,000 mark.
The redesign is an attempt to “remain relevant as readers lose interest in print,” said Chicago Business. Check out the new Jet on August 12.
UPDATE: Octavia Spencer and Michael B. Jordan, who are promoting their highly praised film Fruitvale Station, are set to grace the cover of the new revamped issue of Jet in August. The redesigned magazine will also feature brief videos for readers’ mobile phones, according to the New York Times.
The Grio tells us how Jet magazine will implement mobile technology in their new upcoming issue:
With Layar, a smartphone application, readers will be able to scan an icon from the magazine, and a video will pop up on their phones. In coming months, Miller said the brand plans on rolling out its iPad application, which follows its existing presence on e-readers.
“I’m proud to say that my team has created a product that strikes the perfect balance between freshness and familiarity. The new JET combines what our readers have always loved, with a modern look and vibe,” added Mitzi Miller, editor-in-chief, in a press statement.
MAG FAB: Janelle Monae POSES For "BUST”
"Q.U.E.E.N." singer Janelle Monae and Olympic-gold medalist Sanya Richards-Ross both landed on magazine covers this month. See their magazine covers inside.....
Singer Janelle Monae covers BUST Magazine’s August/September issue where she talks about her upcoming album The Electric Lady (September 10th). Speaking about the disc, she told the mag,
“The ArchAndroid focused on self-realization: realizing your superpower and the things that you’re capable of doing. With The Electric Lady, we’re talking about self-actualization: being the change you want to see. It’s also more personal, more revealing. The new album deals with a new breed of women…strong, bold women who are taking their stands and not being marginalized.”
The issue also feature aticles about rap sensation Awkwafina and comedians Key and Peele.
Evelyn Lozada Talks Shoes As OK! Magazine’s Newest Fashion Contributor
While gearing up for the upcoming season of Basketball Wives, Evelyn Lozada has taken on the role of fashion contributor for OK! magazine. The reality star, who has a killer shoe game of her own, will be answering questions on shoes; as well as giving glimpses into her own collection.
Getting started, she answered a list of questions from OK!.. Check out some here:
OK!: What are you most excited for readers to take away from your new OK! shoe blog?
Evelyn Lozada: I’ve always loved fashion in general, but my millions of fans (who I also call my friends) know me for my “Shoe Game” and the fact that I’m addicted to shoes. With this blog, I want to help the readers of OK! identify the latest designers, hottest trends, and best techniques to keep them looking fabulous by the foot!
OK!: How would you describe your shoe style?
EL:Anything with a 4-6 inch heel! This would include platforms too! I also love flats, however, they need to be embellished with some type of jewel or hardware.
OK!: Who are some of your favorite shoe designers?
EL:On the high end, my favorite shoe designer is Giuseppe Zanotti. I guess anyone can tell, because I’ve been on an Instagram craze with a few of his designs! On the more affordable end, my favorite is Steve Madden…there’s just something about that man and his shoes.
shoeology with evelyn lozada 01 christal rock Evelyn Lozada Talks Shoes As OK! Magazines Newest Fashion Contributor
OK!: How many pairs of heels do you own?
EL:Roughly over 200 pairs.
OK!: What’s your go-to shoe type?
EL:Something FUNKY! I don’t have one basic shoe in my closet. If I’m out, I want my shoes to POP…I want people staring at my feet…giving all the attention to my shoes. LOL
OK!: What’s your rule of thumb when it comes to accessories?
EL:When it comes to accessories, don’t over do it! Accessories are the glue that holds any outfit together and if you do too much, you will kill an outfit. I cringe when I see someone with too much going on. If I’m wearing embellished earrings, I usually don’t add a necklace. When it comes to my bags and shoes, I normally go with what matches. Keep in mind, I’m a New Yorker and sometimes I will just wear my hoop earrings. Keeping it simple is a plus—try not to become a fashion violation. Yikes!
Head to Ev’s blog for more Shoeology.
Source: Alex Rodriguez Will Refuse MLB Deal In Steroids Investigation, Faces 100 Game Suspension
Alex Rodriguez has no plans to hash out a deal with Major League Baseball amid allegations of involvement in performance enhancement drugs. A source close to the situation confirmed to USA Today Sports that the New York Yankees third baseman is still receiving legal counseling on the matter, but will fight any imposed suspension.
Rodriguez showed up at training site in Tampa today, briefly speaking to reporters-- but not about the scandal. "I feel great," he said of his condition after surgery in January. "That's all I have to say."
MLB is willing to suspend the New Yorker for a minimum of 100 games over his involvement in a cover up surrounding the now closed Bigoensis rejuvenation clinic, and ties to convicted smuggler Dr. Anthony Galaea.
The 37-year-old confessed to steroid use between 2001 and 2003. Earlier in the month he and lawyers flew to Tampa to meet with MLB investigators, where they were presented with more evidence pointing to the athlete's guilt.
A-Rod's drug scandal is the tip of an iceberg threatening his legacy. Although it's not likely that a lifetime ban will be imposed on the multi-millionaire, a rep believes the Yankees are scheming to keep Rodriguez off the field. He was scheduled to play Monday (July 29), which was nixed after he was diagnosed with a strained left quadricep. "He wants to play and they won't let him play," a source told ESPNNewYork.com. "Nobody knows Alex's body better than he does."
Steroid claims have run rampant across the sports world as a whole, but baseball has come under particular scrutiny. In January, Sammy Sosa, Roger Clemens, and Barry Bonds were denied induction into the Baseball Hall of Fame after allegations of steroid use.
Depending on MLB's decision, Rodriguez could lose $14 million. He signed a $275 million decade long contract with the Yankees in 2007, and will be paid out approximately $87 million regardless of the investigation's outcome.
An Official Look At Andre 3000 Becoming Jimi Hendrix + World Premiere Date
The singer was spotted in Dublin on the set of Hendrix movie.
Read More »
While filming for All is By My Side in Dublin, André 3000 steps into the role of Jimi Hendrix in the biopic that zeros in on the iconic rocker’s pre-fame years.
Three Stacks is pictured sporting a light green shirt, 60s-style trousers and an Afro, while toking on a cigarette.
Albeit the film –– directed by John Ridley –– will not feature any actual Hendrix tunes, as a result of his estate refusing rights to his material, All is By My Side will make its global debut at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) in September of 2013. The pic focuses on the legendary guitarist and his time in London, prior to the release of Hendrix’s Are You Experienced LP (1967).
Is André convincing or what?!
No Boys Allowed! Angela Simmons Throws ‘Girl Talk Take Over’ Event at Newark’s Boys Girls Club
The freshest face of BET’s 106 & Park, Angela Simmons, continues to use her star power to give back. This week, Rev. Run’s 27-year-old daughter hosted a ‘Girl Talk Take Over‘ event for some promising young girls at Newark’s Boys & Girls Club. Bringing together fashion, health and fitness, Angela brought out her BET co-host, Bow Wow, along with her brother Diggy Simmons, to perform. The girls also received a few take-home gifts compliments of their sponsors. After the event ended, Angela beamed on twitter:
This is my passion ! These girls made me so happy! I put my all into them today! Over these last months my partner Kerri and I put so much work in. I do it for them. Bringing health , fitness , fashion, sex Ed , community activities , performing arts , yoga , glass roots art, self expression , nails , hair , what girls want and need! #girltalktakeover !! This event is my heart . One thing I can say js dreams come true. I dreamed of helping these girls and i followed through! Newark boys and girls club! Hope you enjoyed it! Until next time ! Xo!
Check Angela and the girls in #GirlTalkTakeOver action.
Always good to see Do Gooders! h/t Thejasminebrand
‘R&B Divas: L.A.’Star, Lil’ Mo Urges Artists NOT To Boycott Florida For Trayvon Martin
Lil’ Mo won’t be boycotting Florida for Trayvon Martin, as many of her fellow entertainers have done since the shocking verdict came down.
The R&B Divas: L.A. star took to Twitter to explain her reasoning.
“Ever since the verdict, a certain artist is boycotting the state of Florida. The fans don’t deserve to be deserted,” she posted.
Artists like Stevie Wonder and Mary Mary have officially refused to play any gigs in states with “Stand Your Ground” laws in place.Lil’ Mo wants them and everyone else to reconsider the protest. She even took a jab at Stevie’s blindness to prove her point.
“If the coin was right, would HIS staff accept or deny the gig? And if so how would he know? They could say it’s sumpter, sc or nah?” she wrote.
“TBH some artists have staff that dedicate their LIFE to that artist so when that artists expires the TEAM outta work. Think abt it b4 u buck,” she tweeted.
While she isn’t a fan of the protest, she does have other ideas for taking a stand. “I’m merely stating don’t boycott. “Do a benefit concert give the proceeds to the family,” she said. “My family normally vacations in FLORIDA july 22-aug 2, BUT, As of today we have reneged and will go to Another state instead.”
So just to be clear, Mo is fine with boycotting vacations in Florida, just not performances that pay perfectly good money. Got it.
Deadbeat Dad Of 22 Says He's Been Approached For A Reality Show
Fathering 22 children could land Orlando Shaw a reality show. The Tennessee deadbeat dad became a viral embarrassment for his undying "love" for women, which led to successfully planting seeds in more than a dozen members of the female race.
"I've had a lot of people from Hollywood calling me," Shaw claimed in an interview. Clearly unaware of how Shawty Lo's similar attempt ended, Shaw "recently" inked a "production deal" with a "prominent Los Angeles agency," to get the ball rolling on his reality TV career.
Since he's not paying child support, a reality TV check will help cover the more than $7,000 a month paid by the state to help his children. "I was young and ambitious and I love women," Shaw told Nashville station NewsChannel 5.
It's estimated that he would need three or four full-time jobs to cover any real form of support. "You can't knock no man for loving women," he added. "I love my kids and I can care less about what anyone thinks about it. I'll be sure we'll be here for years and years to come."
"Love" isn't the only things the 33-year-old has to offer his offspring, he's also there for inspiration. Shaw's 16-year-old daughter is pregnant. "I have babies for her," he said. "If she wanted a baby daddy has plenty for us."
Three of Shaw's 14 baby's mothers have pending child support lawsuits against him.
Jacob Latimore Pairs A $550 PRSVR Combination Cycle Jacket With $850 Giuseppe Zanotti Cracked Leather High-Top Sneakers
R&B singer Jacob Latimore was recently spotted rocking a pair of $850 Giuseppe Zanotti Cracked Leather High-Top Sneakers. These edgy lace-up sneakers are completed with a cracked leather upper, leather lining, padded insole, rubber sole and a double-zip & bar detail. You can get them at Saks.
He paired a $550 eggshell leather PRSVR Combination Cycle Jacket and black denim jeans with his sneakers. Jacob last wore these Giuseppe Zanotti sneakers at the 2013 BET Awards. See the original post here. This jacket also turns into a vest when you unzip the sleeves. It features zip off sleeves, zip closure, button collar, nappa leather and camouflage leather. What is your verdict on Jacob’s look?
Awareness: Spike Lee Turns To Kickstarter To Fund His Next Feature Film
Iconic filmmaker Spike Lee is getting social for his latest project. On Monday, July 22nd, Lee announced that he will be using crowd-funding site Kickstarter as a means to finance his next film project, which has yet to be named.
Kickstarter is a place to fund creative projects, and in the few years since its inception, has been a hot spot for independent creatives to get costly projects off the ground by calling donations into action in an open forum, while rewarding their backers with various incentives.
Kickstarter’s popularity has gained amongst more established creatives, mainly signed musicians and bigger name filmmakers to fund projects they love that may have been passed off by their label or management. Spike Lee saw this opportunity specifically on the film front, citing various feature films that gained backing through Kickstarter, and why he feels it is the best avenue for him…
He is looking to raise $1.25 million between the dates of July 22nd and August 22nd. Click play above to hear more about Spike’s initiative, background, and his new film. So far with 28 days to go, Lee has managed to raise $131,808 with 930 backers. To learn more, peep his Kickstarter page.
WILL YOU BE SUPPORTING?
Kanye West and Kim Kardashian flush nearly $1 million on gold plated toilets for their new Bel Air mansion
She has been out of the spotlight for nearly six weeks now after becoming a new mother to her newborn daughter North West.
But it seems that Kim Kardashian has also been busy with the all important task of decorating her and Kanye West's new $11m Bel Air mansion, which is currently being renovated.
And of course it is nothing but the best for the lord and the lady of the manor.
It has been revealed that the couple have splashed out a whopping $750,000 on four gold-plated toilets for the sprawling abode.
Kimye now join the likes of other famous celebrities and members of royalty who also have gold plated plumbing featured their homes.
However, the couple cannot quite compete with the world's most expensive gold toilet, the $5 million Hang Fung Gold Toilet.
Meanwhile, the couple's gilded throne is not the only expensive furnishing featured in the Kardashian/West household.
Kanye has also reportedly splurged on six special-edition beds from a company which supplies London’s Savoy Hotel, the total coming to $1 million.
The couple are also said to be blinging out their kitchen with a Swarovski-encrusted fridge freezer and almost $1 million worth of Electrolux appliances.
A source told The Sun: 'They expect the interior to cost twice as much as the property. They’re spending more than a million on a security system alone.'
And according to TMZ, the couple's luxury home is also said to include a hair and makeup salon, bowling alley, indoor and outdoor pool, basketball court, movie theater and custom gym.
'It's so exciting for them,' a source told People magazine. 'The house is gorgeous. And they really wanted and needed the privacy.'
Kim and Kanye are currently renting a home near Kim's mother Kris Jenner's house while they wait for the finishing touches to be completed on the Bel Air mansion.
A source told Radar Online several weeks ago: ‘Kim and Kanye have finally settled on a temporary mansion for their family to move into. It should be ready for them to move in the next two weeks.
‘It's over 8,000 square feet and offers complete privacy, which was a big concern of Kanye's. The security system is being upgraded and Nori's nursery is being outfitted with surveillance cameras.’
And North’s safety was apparently the utmost concern for Watch The Throne rapper Kanye.
The insider added: ‘When it comes to Nori's safety, Kanye isn't taking any chances. Kim has had stalkers in the past, so nothing is being left to chance.
‘Of course, Kim wants everything to be perfect immediately for their temporary residence, even though it's a rental. Family pictures are being hung on the walls in the house, and Kim is talking about painting Nori's room.’
Rita Ora Fined by Jay Z
Pop star Rita Ora fined by Jay Z for showing up late to the studio.
British pop star Rita Ora is slapped with a fine every time she turns up late to the recording studio.
The R.I.P. hitmaker is signed to Jay Z's Roc Nation record label, and the rap mogul ensures his artists are on time by charging them for every minute they are late.
Ora tells Nme, "I was late in the studio by 10 minutes and I got an email checking up on me. There's a fine if I'm late. I set that standard for myself, but now I'm regretting it.
"It's a small example of the way Jay is always on time and on point with his s**t. He doesn't try and make you do anything you don't want to do - he doesn't make you be on time - but he makes you realise you're only affecting yourself."
Tami Roman Mother Dies
Basketball Wives Miami’s reality star Tami Roman lost her mother yesterday.On her instagram Tami posted:
My pain runs deep, my heart aches, my soul mourns – I have NEVER felt this way in my entire life. My mother is no longer with me and I may never be the same. Jesus…be with me and my daughters.
Seems like she’s been sick and in and out of hospitals for a while,Tami recently asked her twitter family to pray for her mom because she was in the hospital.
Our condolences!
Meek Mills Gillie Da Kid Juelz Santana - Shots Fired
Meek Mill is putting himself in another beef with a local Philly emcee–Gillie Da Kid. Gillie is most known for his role in 90′s rap group Major Figgas and the claims that he wrote for Lil Wayne‘s first two “Tha Carter” albums which led to beef with Weezy. Apparently Gillie Da Kid is now in another rap beef, this time with rival Philly rapper Meek Mill.
Meek took to social media to address Gillie Da Kid and sent negative energy toward the self proclaimed “King Of Philly.” Meek didn’t address Gillie directly (sigh)–but it’s obvious who he is sending shots at.
Read what Meek Mill had to say about Gillie Da Kid below.
Meek Beef Wit Gillie Da Kid And Shots Fired At Juelz
Check the video on Gillie Da Kid talking about Meek Mills and listen to him to take shots at Juelz Santana.
Peep What Gillie Da Kid Posted on his instagram after seeing what Meek said.
When will they stop this foolish!
Families Don't Approve of Ross Simpson Romance
Neither Ashlee Simposon nor Evan Ross' family approve of their budding romance.
Ashlee Simpson has fallen hard and fast for her new boyfriend Evan Ross — but her family and his mom are trying to pry them apart.
According to American tabloid theNational Enquirer, Ashlee’s parents think 24-year-old Evan — whose mom is Diana Ross — is too much of a partier for single mom Ashlee.
Meanwhile, Diana believes Ashlee, 28, has far too much baggage for her boy.
“Ashlee is head over heels for this guy,” said a source. “They’ve barely been apart since their first date. “Evan has definitely earned his reputation as a partier. He’s young, rich, loves the attention he gets from dating celebrities, and has no interest in settling down.”
Ashlee divorced Fall Out Boy rockerPete Wentz in 2011 after three years of marriage, and they share a 4-year-old son, Bronx.
“Evan is the worst possible choice for someone with a kid who is looking for a serious boyfriend,” the source pointed out.
“Her friends and family are warning her not to get in too deep.
“Plain and simple, Diana doesn’t approve of Ashlee because of her screwy family and wild-child reputation. “She thinks Evan should date someone with less baggage.
“Diana told Evan she likes Ashlee well enough, just not for him and definitely not as a future daughter-in-law.”
Diana, 69, who had a love child with Motown Records honcho Berry Gordy, “seems to have forgotten her own past,” continued the source. “But Evan throws it in her face every time she slams Ashlee, which is often.
“Ashlee and Evan know their families want the best for them, but they don’t appreciate the meddling. They’re adults and they’re going to do what they want. For now, that means be¬ing together.
Icon Mann Luncheon Celebrates Black Men In Entertainment
ICON MANN’s Summer Luncheon, entitled ‘Because You Are, We Are Able,’ was a huge success in shining the spotlight on what a momentous year 2013 has been for Black men in film, with more than twenty (20) titles scheduled to be released prominently featuring Black Actors.
“There is so much to be proud of, ICON MANN celebrates the state of mind that transforms ones access and opportunity into that of great possibility,”says ICON MANN (IMBMIE) Founder Tamara N. Houston.
There is no greater time to be a Black Man in media and entertainment than now. The realities of making it are about legacy creation, living the Best Life and paying it forward. Starting with the summer Conversation through Awards season (Emmys and Oscars) ICON MANN is creating a network of dialog among Black Men committed to leveraging their celebrity in the support of their peers’ film and television projects.
Actors Blair Underwood (NBC/Iron Side) and David Oyelowo (The Butler/Lincoln) hosted the event. Various actors—including Anthony Anderson (Law & Order), Djimon Hounsou (Baggage Claim/Blood Diamond),Jesse Williams (Grey’s Anatomy), Jay Ellis (The Game), Mo McRae (Ray Donovan/Sons of Anarchy), Omari Hardwick (Being Mary Jane), and Richard Brooks (Being Mary Jane/Law & Order), D.B. Woodside (VH1/Single Ladies)—attended the luncheon. Also in attendance were entertainment industry executives Charles King (Partner Literary, WME), Bill Duke (Director, “Dark Girls”), David White (National Executive Director, SAG), Graylind Wherry (Director of Finance, Sony Digital), James Lopez (Senior Vice-President, Sony Screen Gems), Franklin Sirmans (Head Curator of Contemporary Art, LACMA), Michael Lawson (President of LAX Commission), and many others.
Immediately following the extremely successful luncheon, which celebrated the incredible strides that Black men are making in entertainment and multimedia this year, the men returned home and were shocked to hear the devastating results of the Trayvon Martin verdict. The verdict inspired the men to open a dialogue about its impact, and offer advice on how best to speak to their children and families that this may become a learning and growth opportunity for all people.
As the group of African American actors and executives left an afternoon of wonderful fellowship and celebration they learned of the verdict, actor Omari Hardwick (Being Mary Jane, Sparkle) couldn’t shake the feeling that something had to be done. “My belief in us, as the human race, sharing the same planet, motivated me too create LITTLE BOY WONDER a Dedication to Trayvon Martin,” said Omari. The emotionally gripping poem that Omari penned the night of the Zimmerman verdict was then shared with his friends and together they decided to shoot this [4:18] video, “LITTLE BOY WONDER: A Dedication to Trayvon Martin.”
“I am thankful to my friends and peers who came and lent their support,” said Omari.
AND FINALLY FROM THE CRAZY PEOPLE SHOPPING AT WALMART FILES
‘BISCUIT LOVERS’
Short shorts are a staple in the bottom biscuits world. What I want to know is do you like yours bare or in the underwear wrapper?
HAVE A GREAT WEEK AHEAD EVERYBODY!!!
EFREM
