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<title>My RSS Feed</title><link>http://strivemagazine.com/index.html</link><description>Hot News&#x21;</description><dc:language>en</dc:language><dc:creator>www.illustcat.net</dc:creator><dc:rights>Copyright 2007 Strive Magazine</dc:rights><dc:date>2008-05-30T14:19:49-04:00</dc:date><admin:generatorAgent rdf:resource="http://www.realmacsoftware.com/" />
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<lastBuildDate>Wed, 04 Jun 2008 01:12:14 -0400</lastBuildDate><item><title>Hiding In Hip Hop</title><dc:creator>www.illustcat.net</dc:creator><dc:subject>Cover Page</dc:subject><dc:date>2008-05-30T14:19:49-04:00</dc:date><link>http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/8e13d4e35fc743a1e02387169580be78-53.html#unique-entry-id-53</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/8e13d4e35fc743a1e02387169580be78-53.html#unique-entry-id-53</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[I am the author of, Hiding In Hip Hop &ndash; On The Down Low in the Entertainment Industry from Music to Hollywood (Atria/Simon & Schuster).  I am also the creator/founder of Men&rsquo;s Empowerment, Inc. I have worked in the entertainment industry for over 10 years, most recently with MTV Networks on shows such as Movie Awards, Video Music Awards, VH1 Hip Hop Honors, and Sports & Music Festival.

...Struggling to find a place for himself in a homophobic culture Dean&rsquo;s compelling story is one of hope, love, and in spite of everything, coming to terms with one&rsquo;s self and being a catalyst for change and empowerment in the game of Hip-Hop.]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Make Up Mania Design Opening</title><dc:creator>www.illustcat.net</dc:creator><category>Design</category><dc:date>2008-05-27T15:24:07-04:00</dc:date><link>http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/3a5ff06c6e11e0dbf4194a23b4504a50-52.html#unique-entry-id-52</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/3a5ff06c6e11e0dbf4194a23b4504a50-52.html#unique-entry-id-52</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[And a special thanks to our movie and celebrity makeup artists for their attendance.

...WillDuBoseDesign looks forward to serving all of your interior design, interior architecture and architectural needs.

...We also urge you to experience our design for the showroom apartment of Magic Johnson's Brooklyn Clock Tower.]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>&#x22;Yes We Can&#x22; New Obama Videos</title><dc:creator>www.illustcat.net</dc:creator><category>TV/Movies</category><dc:date>2008-04-22T21:55:35-04:00</dc:date><link>http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/83c3b85c3c7769b1b422dbc3f25d3354-51.html#unique-entry-id-51</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/83c3b85c3c7769b1b422dbc3f25d3354-51.html#unique-entry-id-51</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[Basir to partner up with fellow colleagues in a bi-coastal effort, pull together their resources to produce three videos in support of the campaign, all done completely through donations from friends.

...Basir, who recently won the Drama category in Link TV's "One Nation, Many Voices" film competition, judged by Danny Glover, Kareem Abdul-Jabar and Marianne Pearl and others, had been thinking for several months about how he could help the Barack Obama Presidential Campaign.

...The initial release of the videos is on youtube.com, but the group hopes that the Obama campaign takes notice and starts to use them for broadcast.]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Living Measure</title><dc:creator>www.illustcat.net</dc:creator><dc:subject>Cover Page</dc:subject><dc:date>2008-04-21T20:27:56-04:00</dc:date><link>http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/4c924854b9b382a5a351273027198290-50.html#unique-entry-id-50</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/4c924854b9b382a5a351273027198290-50.html#unique-entry-id-50</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[DONOR LEVELS]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Chyna Layne</title><dc:creator>www.illustcat.net</dc:creator><category>TV/Movies</category><dc:date>2008-01-10T23:20:31-05:00</dc:date><link>http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/3070335f3d5fb9eca63c09242e195580-49.html#unique-entry-id-49</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/3070335f3d5fb9eca63c09242e195580-49.html#unique-entry-id-49</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[Then, a few days later, I got fired from the other library job (walking in late), then went to work later that night for the clothing catalog company and got fired (for walking in late a week before).

...I've played such a wide range of characters from a young Jamaican teen who survives incest in PUSH to a young woman on a spiritual discovery in A DEEPER LOVE to an awkward teenager who loves bugs in ALL SCREWED UP to a pregnant Jamaican woman who is HIV-positive and abused in LIFE SUPPORT to a young, struggling, single mother in SILENT CRIES OF A CHILD for which I won Best Actress in the short film category at this year's New York International and Independent Film and Video Festival.

...I can&rsquo;t foresee when I&rsquo;ll be able to say that I &ldquo;made it&rdquo; but right now, I&rsquo;m trying to become a part of the solution instead of the problem when it comes to the issues plaguing our culture like crime, drugs, a failing education system, HIV/AIDS, poor housing, etc. So, when we can finally say &ldquo;problem solved&rdquo; to these issues, even if it&rsquo;s just one, maybe I can say that &ldquo;we made it.&rdquo;]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>3 Michigan Stories&#x2c; Greg White&#x2c; Willie Green and Toni Webb</title><dc:creator>www.illustcat.net</dc:creator><category>Business</category><dc:date>2007-10-09T06:46:32-04:00</dc:date><link>http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/4285bff3257c5a49c2c93b707530f533-47.html#unique-entry-id-47</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/4285bff3257c5a49c2c93b707530f533-47.html#unique-entry-id-47</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[You must think smart and carry contemporary dancers within your management strategy so that you are well-rounded and can work with any client, but you must first and foremost have top hip hop dancers represented in your agency to be recognized and respected, as well as networks with the industry's top hip hop choreographers.

...The last thing I think of is whether or not I accomplished all of my goals for that day because I truly believe in and live by the statement: Don't put off until tomorrow what you can do today.

...Make sure to enjoy the ride while you continue to work hard, it may sound cliche but life goes by quickly and regardless what happens there will always be work to do, so make sure you have fun along the way and spend time with the ones you love, in the long run that'll be more important than anything else.]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Dr Atkins</title><dc:creator>www.illustcat.net</dc:creator><category>Medicine</category><dc:date>2007-08-20T22:35:47-04:00</dc:date><link>http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/5df1b85a071821bb0a6a87b6bc5525b6-29.html#unique-entry-id-29</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/5df1b85a071821bb0a6a87b6bc5525b6-29.html#unique-entry-id-29</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[From inner-city Detroit, where he was on the verge of joining a gang to sell drugs, to underserved Lima, Ohio, where he practices as a family physician, Dr. Anthony Atkins has come a long way....  In 1991, his participation in a post-baccalaureate Health Careers Opportunity Program (HCOP) at The Ohio State University College of Medicine helped prepare him for medical school and a residency in family practice....  His &ldquo;Lifestoryz&rdquo; project is a rap/R&B CD that strives to deliver positive, informational messages to help inner-city youth make the right choices.]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Chris Rob</title><dc:creator>www.illustcat.net</dc:creator><category>Music</category><dc:date>2007-08-08T22:37:00-04:00</dc:date><link>http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/7a5d4b6298a733d23db4360db8630dee-30.html#unique-entry-id-30</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/7a5d4b6298a733d23db4360db8630dee-30.html#unique-entry-id-30</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[This young, handsome singer/songwriter/multi instrumentalist has shared the stage with some of today&rsquo;s most respected stars from Lauryn Hill to Chaka Khan and most recently John Legend.

...I put out an album, I&rsquo;m about to out to put out another album so God forbid something were to happen to me, people will know who Chris Rob was because I&rsquo;ve left something/a stamp behind.

...Once hip hop came out in the mid 80&rsquo;s you had all these radio stations trying to block it out and so they made these new standards like Adult Contemporary or Smooth Jazz and that was the only kind of music they would play.]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Gordon Chambers</title><dc:creator>www.illustcat.net</dc:creator><category>Music</category><dc:date>2007-08-01T22:41:59-04:00</dc:date><link>http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/f00b1ce2ea2bce49e22f456b90135bf7-31.html#unique-entry-id-31</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/f00b1ce2ea2bce49e22f456b90135bf7-31.html#unique-entry-id-31</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[And its so contagious that anyone around Gordon is most likely destined for greatness: from entertainment editor at Essence Magazine to songwriter for some of the biggest hits heard over the airwaves and seen on BET: Beyonce, Whitney, Anita Baker, Marc Anthony, etc.

...GChambers: My journey into the music business began with my parents Friday night parties during the 70's when Dad bought new soul and reggae records and Mom cooked huge pots of curry goat.

..."At last my chance to shine And all in perfect time I live the life I once dreamed of Who'd have thought, if it wasn't for love..."]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Ericka Kendrick</title><dc:creator>www.illustcat.net</dc:creator><category>Author</category><dc:date>2007-06-05T22:42:51-04:00</dc:date><link>http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/9714dc4a0dc01a6c0e7fffe9a0de9adc-32.html#unique-entry-id-32</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/9714dc4a0dc01a6c0e7fffe9a0de9adc-32.html#unique-entry-id-32</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[I never knew I was a gifted author, although I&rsquo;ve always crushed on the cunning linguistics I have as a writer, but the daunting task of penning a really really really long 300 page love story was nauseating&hellip; until I got started and realized that I&rsquo;d found my professional piece of heaven.

...My career background reads like a schizophrenic chronology of a very bored Ivy Leaguer: 3rd grade teacher, waitress, third tier back-up dancer for a DD-list rap group, a professional NBA cheerleader, promotional model handing out handfuls of crap on that busy corner (yes, that was me!), a fortune 500 global public relations firm intern with seriously sexy stints at J Records, Island Def Jam, the Apollo theater, and far too many freelance gigs to name&hellip; and if you take away the perceived fame, the hangovers and the headaches were always the same!

...Additionally, it def helps to have industry elite recognize your talent; that recognition drives me in ways incomparable to anything else: Wendy Williams naming Confessions of a Rookie Cheerleader as her Book Club Pick of the Month for March, Ebony Magazine naming the title Top 3 Pick for April Fiction, etc. I&rsquo;m driving/striving top speed and in talks to option the film rights.]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Taliya A. Bashani</title><dc:creator>www.illustcat.net</dc:creator><category>Business</category><dc:date>2007-05-28T23:10:45-04:00</dc:date><link>http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/a8d27dc9c6a24499da0810ccfcb15c77-45.html#unique-entry-id-45</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/a8d27dc9c6a24499da0810ccfcb15c77-45.html#unique-entry-id-45</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA["Now, I am fully operational and run a real estate company offering agents one of the highest starting splits in the city along with my law practice representing clients in the acquisition and sale of property in both New York and New Jersey.

...Now, I am fully operational and run a real estate company offering agents one of the highest starting splits in the city along with my law practice representing clients in the acquisition and sale of property in both New York and New Jersey....  I do a lot of new development work by writing offering plans for condominium developers throughout the city, which in turn allows me to learn about new properties early on and advise my clients about good investment opportunities at below market, pre-construction prices.]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Choir Boy</title><dc:creator>www.illustcat.net</dc:creator><category>Music</category><dc:date>2007-05-06T23:10:43-04:00</dc:date><link>http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/cf579dbbb4aae5140504e1dd0dd3c424-44.html#unique-entry-id-44</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/cf579dbbb4aae5140504e1dd0dd3c424-44.html#unique-entry-id-44</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[I admired Jay-Z's wit, his flow and charisma, the way he would sound over a beat; it was incredible and then the fact that he doesn't write his lyrics, WOW.

...I can honestly say I have been doing music everyday of my life...I tried so many times to have serious relationships with the ladies but my passion for the music won't allow me to devote my full time and attention to them.

...Choir Boy: What sets me apart from other artists is that I am a hybrid i.e. a collection of some of the greatest artists ever; I possess the demeanor of a Marvin Gaye the passion of a 2pac, the depth of a Nas, the singing voice of a Michael Franks, Paul Simon, or John Lennon, the flow of a Notorious Big or Jay-Z, the hard drum patterns and arrangement of a Dr Dre., the space-out sound of a Timbaland or Pharell and the modulation and chords of a Church Musician.]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Marina Franklin</title><dc:creator>www.illustcat.net</dc:creator><category>Comedy</category><dc:date>2007-04-15T23:10:05-04:00</dc:date><link>http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/c6c96643e03044d8e8b19a19d23c39c9-43.html#unique-entry-id-43</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/c6c96643e03044d8e8b19a19d23c39c9-43.html#unique-entry-id-43</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[He was the first comic to help me understand how to develop an original voice, but he didn&rsquo;t really say anything specific &hellip; he had a way of making me understand by watching.

...Every day I spent with her in that hospital,while the chemo invaded her young body, I wasn&rsquo;t thinking about me&hellip;or what I needed&hellip; but how could I be good at helping my friend....  What I now know for sure is that you can never be too sure&hellip; life can take you in a different direction so you might as well have a great time loving, laughing and living every minute of it.]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Brandy Gomez Duplessis</title><dc:creator>www.illustcat.net</dc:creator><category>Fashion and Style</category><dc:date>2007-04-08T23:08:10-04:00</dc:date><link>http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/4159b815fc2c6426e391a6b9eb40a087-42.html#unique-entry-id-42</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/4159b815fc2c6426e391a6b9eb40a087-42.html#unique-entry-id-42</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[Oct 2006-Montell Williams Nov 2006-Tyra Banks Show Nov 2006-R&B Singer Usher Nov 2006-New Orleans Bride Magazine Jan 2007-People Magazine Jan 2007-Represented by Zenobia Agency in LA Feb 2007-Essence Magazine-Marian Wright Edelman Feb 2007-Taping of new show on TLC "Mind Your Manner" (Makeup Expert) Feb 2007-Diet Pepsi Jazz AD Mar 2007-Budweiser AD

...I am married (Michael is my number one fan, he&rsquo;s my rock and he loves to pamper me, and he is amazing) with two children (Envy and Jordan, who are beautiful inside and out, they both will be in the entertainment industry) and two yorkies (Miko and Ani who are boogie down brown with highlights in their hair like there mama).

...Still to this day the best person I ever worked for is Sean "DIDDY" Combs, what he asks of you seems harsh to lazy people but I think it only makes you stronger and at the end of the day his name was on the outside of the building, so he couldn&rsquo;t sleep.]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Bob Novogratz</title><dc:creator>www.illustcat.net</dc:creator><category>Design</category><dc:date>2007-03-23T23:02:49-05:00</dc:date><link>http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/2b12f6a570596dccabd77e5a0df8ac4b-41.html#unique-entry-id-41</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/2b12f6a570596dccabd77e5a0df8ac4b-41.html#unique-entry-id-41</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[Bob said as he explained to us his vision 3 years ago. &ldquo;I am designing this home for a restaurateur, this one for a producer, one&rsquo;s for myself...&rdquo;

...Owning a fabulous home in Nolita, filled with some of the most impressive artwork and design on the East Coast, this young entrepreneur shares his story with STRIVE on how he lives so well and manages to design, build and raise a family....   STRIVE: What is the first thing you think of when you wake up in the morning and what is the last thing you think of at night?]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Sarah Mattea</title><dc:creator>www.illustcat.net</dc:creator><category>Music</category><dc:date>2007-03-08T23:00:32-05:00</dc:date><link>http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/bce9e8bfe6c1940b421a1d65f0299f2b-39.html#unique-entry-id-39</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/bce9e8bfe6c1940b421a1d65f0299f2b-39.html#unique-entry-id-39</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[I am formerly known as Sarah Lovely for those of you who don't know me personally, and I am entering into a very powerful time in my life right now and needed a name equally as powerful....  This is significant for me not only because it comes from my ancestors, but I truly believe I have been given the gift of music and voice that I will share with the world!!!...   Sarah: I truly believe success comes from within, and how you feel about yourself, but the day I can travel and sing and change lives with my music is the day I have MADE IT.]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Barshem Releases Ghettonometry</title><dc:creator>www.illustcat.net</dc:creator><category>Music</category><dc:date>2007-02-27T23:30:30-05:00</dc:date><link>http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/2c46c09880415f7e7b9d1925682fc82b-0.html#unique-entry-id-0</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/2c46c09880415f7e7b9d1925682fc82b-0.html#unique-entry-id-0</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[I have learned marketing and what to do in order to get you that exposure for the lesser buck.

...For instance: Folks have come into my office with a resume of a class "A" and a gametalk of what they can do and what they have done in the music industry, what company they use to work for and the artists they have promoted.

...Barshem: Many, many folks: Allen Boxer, Sherry Cook, Leonard, Jo Ann, Dallas, Timbo King, Scientific, B & B records my label, Kenny, Kimball, My mother and Family , Everybody that help me and supported me on this project and "Big Up" to Strive Magazine.]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Chris Velona the hardest working man in television</title><dc:creator>www.illustcat.net</dc:creator><category>TV/Movies</category><dc:date>2007-02-22T17:29:25-05:00</dc:date><link>http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/94f9e4f482d9cdfd6edb8eaa8d3e7621-1.html#unique-entry-id-1</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/94f9e4f482d9cdfd6edb8eaa8d3e7621-1.html#unique-entry-id-1</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[Here are some current projects I&rsquo;m a part of&hellip; Producer for MTV&rsquo;s Super Sweet 16 / MTV&rsquo;s True Life series&hellip; Director of Photography for the LRG campaigns&hellip; (I just filmed my 5th campaign on Tuesday November 28th with Coodie & Chike) Event Producer/D.P.

...I genuinely love to help people without looking for a personal gain&hellip; I don&rsquo;t want to say that I&rsquo;m on top of my game just yet because God knows I still have things to learn and work on. I think if one feels as though &ldquo;they&rsquo;ve made it,&rdquo; they&rsquo;ve already lost&hellip;

...The internet is an example of change&hellip; My peers and I have been trying to launch an internet-based television network called BLVD which we believe will be the future of television&hellip; As the saying goes&hellip; &ldquo;Don&rsquo;t put all your eggs in one basket,&rdquo; I think the key to getting ahead is trying to be as flawless as possible so people remember you and your name sticks out.]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Angela Severiano &#x22;Making it Happen&#x22;</title><dc:creator>www.illustcat.net</dc:creator><category>Music</category><dc:date>2007-02-17T10:08:42-05:00</dc:date><link>http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/e17c203735f14ba9f0af53f137bae324-4.html#unique-entry-id-4</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/e17c203735f14ba9f0af53f137bae324-4.html#unique-entry-id-4</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[The ironic part is that after over a year of working with John, I discovered that he was the former Head A&R of AV8 Records, and that his Hip Hop Label Havana Hoodz has records playing all over the world!

...Angela: Several months ago I had a meeting at AV8 Records for my Myspace Single (Which AV8 supports).  While I was there, Laze Elliot & MOP were in a session and asked me to sing for them, within an hour I was in the vocal booth recording with MOP!!..It was all kind of surreal.

...I'm going to continue riding off the success of the Myspace Record, and have my debut album ready for release in Spring 2007.  For support you can always go to my myspace page www.myspace.com/angelaseveriano to view upcoming shows.....I have shows coming up locally including at the Madison Square Garden for the Rangers, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and in my home state Florida!]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Thara Desert Storm</title><dc:creator>www.illustcat.net</dc:creator><category>Music</category><dc:date>2007-02-14T02:18:08-05:00</dc:date><link>http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/94f305843d54b05250c353f8a0c8b69f-13.html#unique-entry-id-13</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/94f305843d54b05250c353f8a0c8b69f-13.html#unique-entry-id-13</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[Much thanks to the manager of the millenium, Chris Robinson, for making this happen Thara Desert Storm Records STRIVE: What makes you a striver? THARA: I was born a striver....  STRIVE: Are from New York? THARA:I grew up in Jersey 20 minutes out of the city so its all the same 2 me....  I went to the bathroom and when I came out, she was waiting to get in. That was krazy because I grew up with her.]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>CL Smooth &#x22;American Me&#x22;</title><dc:creator>www.illustcat.net</dc:creator><category>Music</category><dc:date>2007-01-28T18:45:51-05:00</dc:date><link>http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/26171a818571a8c5823e504c8c768a07-2.html#unique-entry-id-2</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/26171a818571a8c5823e504c8c768a07-2.html#unique-entry-id-2</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[STRIVE What does it mean to you to be a striver: CL Smooth Striving is embedded in you, How you were rasied, Knowing that life is short and that you have to live for today and not tomorrow.

...STRIVE What about the title of your new Album: &ldquo;American Me&rdquo; CL Smooth In touring, I get asked many questions where people believe I represent all of America....  The odds are against me with this album but I am trying to pave the way for other artists who have done it like me and still love and know the game.]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Michael K. Williams mixes it up as &#x22;Omar&#x22;</title><dc:creator>www.illustcat.net</dc:creator><category>TV/Movies</category><dc:date>2007-01-27T10:14:45-05:00</dc:date><link>http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/d5a9af03d9dd8fa9f632b95312a701e1-6.html#unique-entry-id-6</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/d5a9af03d9dd8fa9f632b95312a701e1-6.html#unique-entry-id-6</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA["No one who saw Williams' performance on "The Wire" could fail to appreciate it," wrote Robert Bianco in USA Today's cover story, "10 Reasons We Still Love TV," "In Omar, a gay drug dealer who turns government witness to avenge his murdered boyfriend, Williams brought to life a character who is unlike any we've ever seen before."

...That is where I learned my way around the set. It was there I started studying acting and the theater world, which is where a lot of my inspiration comes from.

...MKWilliams: What makes me original is my heart - I love people and I think that comes across in my work, which makes it successful.]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>J.Ivy  Never Let You Down</title><dc:creator>www.illustcat.net</dc:creator><category>Poetry</category><dc:date>2006-11-26T18:47:48-05:00</dc:date><link>http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/a7e2aab09c03929c6b816839f514c843-3.html#unique-entry-id-3</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/a7e2aab09c03929c6b816839f514c843-3.html#unique-entry-id-3</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[So I guess you can the inspiration and passion comes from the simple fact that I&rsquo;m still here, everyday situations, the millions of people, who find inspiration in MY words, and just wanting to be one of the Greatest to ever do it.

...So in that sense, it grows with us. If I would have had the same credentials I have now 10 years ago, I would have felt very successful, but if I have the just the same credentials 10 years from now, I won&rsquo;t feel successful, because I won&rsquo;t feel as if I have grown.  So I guess Success is based on Growth&hellip;&hellip;As far as making it, I will feel I&rsquo;ve made it when I&rsquo;m an old ass man, and my Grandkids and their friends are talking about what their Granddaddy did in his day.]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Jacquelyn Howell Esq</title><dc:creator>www.illustcat.net</dc:creator><category>Business</category><dc:date>2006-11-03T22:06:03-05:00</dc:date><link>http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/dcd1bc072b88aa50b9a4bb7612a1d244-37.html#unique-entry-id-37</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/dcd1bc072b88aa50b9a4bb7612a1d244-37.html#unique-entry-id-37</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[She has represented Matthew Knowles (Beyonce's Father), R & B singer Chris Brown, SwishaHouse Records and Nu America Ad Agency along with many others in the entertainment industry. We recently took the opportunity to speak with Ms. Howell regarding her new position at AllHipHop.com and about the work ethic and "Strive mentality" it takes to achieve....  It seemed like overnight, I began to see the fruits of my personal business plan &hellip;the entertainment business started pouring in from around the country.       STRIVE: What jobs did you hold before you became successful?   Jacqueline Howell Esq.: Before I became General Counsel, SVP of Business Development & Legal Affairs at AllHipHop.com, I was an associate at Davis & Gilbert LLP, the #1 media and communications law firm in the country....  Then Create a personal business plan and GO for it!       STRIVE: What is the first thing you think of when you wake up in the morning and what is the last thing you think of at night.   Jacqueline Howell Esq.: First thing: When I am going to the gym today? Last thing: How can I take something I am doing to the next level?       STRIVE:What do you know for sure?   Jacqueline Howell Esq.: God is guiding my path and allowing me to live my destiny.]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>D-Dot Wyse and Haph</title><dc:creator>www.illustcat.net</dc:creator><category>Music</category><dc:date>2006-08-20T22:53:03-04:00</dc:date><link>http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/0bbe98979fa73022b5f590331225c92d-36.html#unique-entry-id-36</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/0bbe98979fa73022b5f590331225c92d-36.html#unique-entry-id-36</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[Currently being produced by D-dot (an original hitmaker who rocked Bad Boy's Line-up from 1996-1998, producing over 7 hit albums: Biggie, Jay-Z, Kanye he's made hits of them all).

...D.Dot: I am at the club and my song comes on in the midst of the hottest records out and people are still banging to it.

...Dot is responsible for a number of Bad Boy&rsquo;s hits such as Notorious B.I.G&rsquo;s &lsquo;Hypnotize&rsquo;, P.Diddy&rsquo;s &lsquo;All about the Benjamins&rsquo;, Mase&rsquo; &lsquo;Been Around the World&rsquo;, Carl Thomas&rsquo; &lsquo;Emotional&rsquo; and 50 Cents&rsquo; &lsquo;How to Rob&rsquo; just for starters.]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Henry Mitchell Interior Design</title><dc:creator>www.illustcat.net</dc:creator><category>Design</category><dc:date>2006-07-17T22:53:02-04:00</dc:date><link>http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/1c33ef995b313db67ca0b87b2b2cc846-35.html#unique-entry-id-35</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/1c33ef995b313db67ca0b87b2b2cc846-35.html#unique-entry-id-35</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[ Interior Designer Henry Mitchell (a long-time friend of STRIVE) recently took time to discuss with us his NEW design for a fashion-forward store in the heart of Harlem, "N"; as well the career he has built designing some of the most fabulous spaces in New York and trhoughout the country.

...THROUGH THIS PHILOSOPHY WE PRODUCE SPACES THAT ARE NOT ONLY BEAUTIFUL TO LOOK AT, BUT THAT ARE ALSO A PLEASURE TO BE IN ADDING TO OUR CLIENTS QUALITY OF LIFE. HENRY MITCHELL INTERIOR ARCHITECTURE&rsquo;S DIVERSE AND DISCERNING CLIENTELE RELY ON OUR PROFICIENCY IN INTERIOR AND ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN AS WELL AS EXPERTISE IN THE CUSTOM DESIGN OF FURNITURE, LIGHTING AND SITE-SPECIFIC HARDWARE....  OUR CREATIVE PROCESS INCORPORATES THE CONCEPTS OF MASTERFUL SPACE PLANNING AND AN INSISTENCE THAT THE INDIVIDUAL BE REFLECTED IN THEIR OWN ENVIRONMENT. HENRY HAS BEEN FEATURED ON tHE OPRAH SHOW, HE REGULARLY SERVES AS A DESIGN CRITIC AND JUROR FOR STUDENTS AT THE PRATT INSTITUTE, FIT, AND PARSON&rsquo;S SCHOOL OF DESIGN AND IS A CONTRIBUTING EDITOR AT BUDGET LIVING MAGAZINE.]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>DETNY by Shawn and Shane</title><dc:creator>www.illustcat.net</dc:creator><category>Business</category><dc:date>2006-07-16T22:49:59-04:00</dc:date><link>http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/c94b241f3d31dc4ae62956e14db132c7-33.html#unique-entry-id-33</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/c94b241f3d31dc4ae62956e14db132c7-33.html#unique-entry-id-33</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[When I say a lot, I mean double of what you find out through your research (because all industries are different) is needed to start your company, then spend it as if you only had a 1/2 of what you raise....  When I say trust, I don&rsquo;t only mean with the finances, the business, or how much work they put in. But also the fact that you trust them to be there through thick and thin, because there will be times you will want to quit or you may even have a breakdown.

...Although he had a much smoother transition into starting his own brand (his family has been in the industry for years) , I think that he has not only found new, creative ways to expand his fashion empire (Kenneth Cole, Kenneth Cole New York, Reation, Unlisted) but he has always stayed socially and politically aware with what is going on in the world.]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Dres of Black Sheep</title><dc:creator>www.illustcat.net</dc:creator><category>Music</category><dc:date>2006-05-26T22:51:59-04:00</dc:date><link>http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/d90fb439e606a408ce9a7452c5eca804-34.html#unique-entry-id-34</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/d90fb439e606a408ce9a7452c5eca804-34.html#unique-entry-id-34</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[ be it being a mogul, creating a hot beat, getting a degree/diploma/ged, becoming a  manager/director/crew cheif, being consistent with your child/god, growing  STRIVE: Who influenced you the most in your career/life when you were starting out? Dres: 3 things..my family.....   he didn't need it STRIVE: What jobs did you hold before you became successful? Dres: well, i've done everything from bag groceries as a teen to mcdonalds while in high school,  to hustling after high school while i was a new accounts rep for a bank, to being an office manager for  a federal agency that worked with the homeless......  there are things we can now do for ourselves that we really need to STRIVE: When you are hiring new talent, what do you look for? Dres: focus, personality (can they represent me), knowledgeable, personeable, desire STRIVE: What is the first thing you think of when you wake up in the morning and what is the last  thing you think of at night. Dres: first things i think of (probly as i pee) are my children....]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Egypt On Air</title><dc:creator>www.illustcat.net</dc:creator><category>Music</category><dc:date>2006-05-05T02:37:38-04:00</dc:date><link>http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/e24e1b89f92978144bb1d94ef21c17c8-28.html#unique-entry-id-28</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/e24e1b89f92978144bb1d94ef21c17c8-28.html#unique-entry-id-28</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[In between playing key roles in pretty much every facet of the entertainment business, Egypt has accomplished more than most would ever dream possible, yet the vivacious vixen reveals to Strive why she's just getting warmed up.  Strive: For people who wonder what Egypt does can you please explain? Egypt: I am an actress, television and radio personality, and entrepreneur. Some people may recognize me from my nationally syndicated show "Home Delivery" from the WB, or perhaps from my days on B.E.T....  Strive: In order for you to be as ambitious and successful as you are you must have had some strong influences in life. Egypt: The people that influenced me the most...hmm...I guess you can say I always admired OPRAH....  What you see is what you get with me!   Strive: You started working in radio in your teens so what where some of the jobs that you held before that? Egypt: As a teenager I worked in retail, fast food, I was even working at CHUCK E. CHEESE.]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Barshem</title><dc:creator>www.illustcat.net</dc:creator><category>Music</category><dc:date>2006-05-01T02:35:07-04:00</dc:date><link>http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/374088a46f9cd259ab85e08404b0ed20-26.html#unique-entry-id-26</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/374088a46f9cd259ab85e08404b0ed20-26.html#unique-entry-id-26</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[I have learned marketing and what to do in order to get you that exposure for the lesser buck.

...For instance: Folks have come into my office with a resume of a class "A" and a gametalk of what they can do and what they have done in the music industry, what company they use to work for and the artists they have promoted.

...Barshem: Many, many folks: Allen Boxer, Sherry Cook, Leonard, Jo Ann, Dallas, Timbo King, Scientific, B & B records my label, Kenny, Kimball, My mother and Family , Everybody that help me and supported me on this project and "Big Up" to Strive Magazine.]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Nook Designer Architect</title><dc:creator>www.illustcat.net</dc:creator><category>Design</category><dc:date>2006-04-30T02:36:34-04:00</dc:date><link>http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/d88f341f3474049774e6d700079b94fb-27.html#unique-entry-id-27</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/d88f341f3474049774e6d700079b94fb-27.html#unique-entry-id-27</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[That&rsquo;s where it starts for me.  STRIVE: What advice would you give others attempting to make their dreams come true? NOOK: Never stop, never get tired.  STRIVE: "Making IT" is not definitive, yet when will you consider yourself as having made it? NOOK: Every night when I go to bed, every morning when I awake I feel like I have made it.    STRIVE: When you are hiring new talent, what do you look for? NOOK: Honesty Eagerness And Determination of Self (only a few will know what this means)  STRIVE: What is the first thing you think of when you wake up in the morning and what is the last thing you think of at night. NOOK: When I awake I think of the day that I will be creating for myself: I ask God for my miracles and I ask that he brings them in such a way that I am amazed when it happens.  When I go to sleep I think about some of what I intend to do and all the good that's happened in the last day.   STRIVE: What do you know for Sure about life? NOOK: Based on everything I know&hellip; Life is Energy.]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Ryan Toby City High </title><dc:creator>www.illustcat.net</dc:creator><category>Music</category><dc:date>2006-04-26T02:34:11-04:00</dc:date><link>http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/974c6d0ce312fb8b62ac3788cefbe116-25.html#unique-entry-id-25</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/974c6d0ce312fb8b62ac3788cefbe116-25.html#unique-entry-id-25</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[Ryan Toby poured out his soul for us. Eloquent and engaging: Ryan's discussion of his past, present and future projects left us stunned by all the celebs he's written for and sung with, the accomplishments (writing multi-million selling hits) and lastly his spirit that is ever-so-mature.  Read to find out what it takes be "great"... STRIVE: Who is Ryan Toby: What is he about and where is he from? Ryan Toby: I come from a small town (suburb) in South NJ, Willingboro....  Next thing you know, the Score album dropped and it was "on" from there.  STRIVE: You all were solo acts how did you come together.  Ryan Toby: Robbie Pablo originally was signed to Wyclef&rsquo;s label as a solo artist....  I can only tell you "If its meant for you it will happen... Follow your heart and most importantly, do not sell your publishing!"   support Ryan by checking out his my space page at: http://www.myspace.com/ryantoby Management for Ryan: Darrel Hayes of Cee-Notes Entertainment P.R.]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Darrin Henson</title><dc:creator>www.illustcat.net</dc:creator><category>TV/Movies</category><dc:date>2006-04-25T02:33:07-04:00</dc:date><link>http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/7fef237897c7ed8ba63b2419b268c3ca-24.html#unique-entry-id-24</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/7fef237897c7ed8ba63b2419b268c3ca-24.html#unique-entry-id-24</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[Where did the inspiration and passion come from? Darrin: I started started dancing at the age of 5 and I always wanted to and knew I had the talent. Later on I was motivated by Theatre Workshop classes throughout school in high school and received my big break at a talent show where I met Scott Sterling a.k.a. D.J....  As far as Soul Food is concerned, I auditioned in New York City then Los Angeles and got the role, I beat out 200 other guys for the part.  One day I want to take Denzel's spot in the limelight.    STRIVE: What signifies a STRIVER to you? Darrin: Striver means going for goals and checking to see if they are happening....  Study then apply. Ask more of yourself then anyone else could ask. Dream, apply then it's done, sit back and watch the universe do its thing.    STRIVE: What is the first thing you think of when you wake up in the morning and what is the last thing you think of at night. Darrin: Say thank you for waking up know that I can and I will.]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Big Lez</title><dc:creator>www.illustcat.net</dc:creator><category>TV/Movies</category><dc:date>2006-04-24T02:32:25-04:00</dc:date><link>http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/58ed9504d758809da6c66a379695efe5-23.html#unique-entry-id-23</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/58ed9504d758809da6c66a379695efe5-23.html#unique-entry-id-23</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[I AM RELENTLESS AND FOCUSED AND TAKE TIME TO BE KNOWLEDGEABLE ABOUT THE INDUSTRY, I MAKE SURE I AM AT THE TOP OF MY SKILL LEVEL BY CONTINUING TO TAKE DANCE CLASSES, ACTING CLASSES, DIALECT CLASSES, PRODUCTION CLASSES, ETC. KNOWLEDGE IS POWER!!

...THE FAME DOESN'T DEFINE MY HYPE AS I AM A "GHETTO CELEBRITY" THE INCOME AND FUTURE INCOME WILL DEFINE IT ONLY BY WHAT I CAN DO FOR MY FAMILY.

...Lez:WHEN I WAKE UP IN THE MORNING I MAKE A CONSCIOUS EFFORT TO LAY IN THE BED IN SILENCE AND SAY THANK YOU...THANK YOU TO GOD FOR BREATHING, HEALTH, FAMILY, MY HOME AND THE COURAGE TO CHALLENGE THIS BUSINESS YET ANOTHER DAY AND FOLLOW MY DREAM.]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Sky Nellor</title><dc:creator>www.illustcat.net</dc:creator><category>Models</category><dc:date>2006-04-19T02:31:49-04:00</dc:date><link>http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/d2117daf6bdd108659868ea9e4288cf3-22.html#unique-entry-id-22</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/d2117daf6bdd108659868ea9e4288cf3-22.html#unique-entry-id-22</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[so getting the opportunity to play what I love and getting paid for it is crazy!!!   STRIVE: Who influenced you the most in your career/life when you were starting out? SKY: My dad, he gave me a ton of his records and wished me well.   STRIVE: What jobs did you hold before this? SKY: Well I started modeling when I left school...then a bunch of DJ and TV gigs came about so I just went with it....and so far  so good.     STRIVE: What advice would you give others attempting to make their dreams come true? SKY: Explore every avenue, break down every door and don't be scared...Believe in yourself and your worth.   STRIVE: "Making IT" is not definitive, yet when will you consider yourself as having made it? SKY: Never....  And I am hiring now....ha ha. (Sky is single at the moment so she answered this question with a slight twist)   STRIVE: What is the first thing you think of when you wake up in the morning and what is the last thing you think of at night. SKY: Um, well this morning I wondered what day it was...  And last night I kept thinking I have to answer these questions as soon as I get up!!!   STRIVE: What do you know for sure? SKY: That I'm a lucky, lucky girl.  STRIVE: Is there anyone's path that you particulary admire and would like to emulate? SKY: I admire anyone that is not afraid of hard work...]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Steve Pageot</title><dc:creator>www.illustcat.net</dc:creator><category>Music</category><dc:date>2006-04-12T01:30:51-04:00</dc:date><link>http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/549935485c5bd2a3dbb0c363c4c8f432-21.html#unique-entry-id-21</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/549935485c5bd2a3dbb0c363c4c8f432-21.html#unique-entry-id-21</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[Unlike many producers parlaying behind a sampler or moving the knobs up and down at the engineering station, Pageot jumps from the controls to the microphone where he can be heard playing his award-winning flute over many of the tracks he produces.

...Marketing and power at record companies have affected my career in a positive way due to the fact that I am able to keep up with the business and to introduce myself to the movers and shakers of the music industry.

...Asking God when is my time is going to come was a question that I&rsquo;d ask him all the time because it&rsquo;s a dream that I wanted to come to reality.]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Laura Downey</title><dc:creator>www.illustcat.net</dc:creator><category>Journalists</category><dc:date>2006-04-05T02:29:56-04:00</dc:date><link>http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/ce3d8996abb87b12803303b0463fe423-20.html#unique-entry-id-20</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/ce3d8996abb87b12803303b0463fe423-20.html#unique-entry-id-20</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[that we all want to know, whether it&rsquo;s by hanging out, playing video games, or going shopping with entertainers like Nelly and Usher, to arranging to meet up with actor Terrence Howard the next time he&rsquo;s in town so he can tell her the real deal on what happened with his relationship, or mingling with celebs like Damon Dash, Jay Z, Denzel and Pharell in the VIP section of the latest hot spot.

...She never went to college or anything but when we moved to FL, she worked at a convenience store to be able to provide for my sister and I and then she ended up becoming a leasing agent at an apartment complex in theneighborhood.My mom was always striving for bigger and better things.She taught me to do the same for myself."...  Laura: "I was born in the Bronx and moved to West Palm Beach, FL when I was eight years old.I have one older sister and my parents have been together for 30 years.We have three dogs (one boxer and two chow-chows).I have always been an introvert and only come out of my shell when I am really comfortable with people.I enjoy helping others and pride myself on being organized."]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Sheryl Roberts</title><dc:creator>www.illustcat.net</dc:creator><category>Models</category><dc:date>2006-03-31T02:28:48-05:00</dc:date><link>http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/065691e726437aa11fa62fd08ecb5ce2-19.html#unique-entry-id-19</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/065691e726437aa11fa62fd08ecb5ce2-19.html#unique-entry-id-19</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[STRIVE: What advice would you give others attempting to make their dreams come true? Sheryl: My advice for people aspiring to become models are to study magazines and  commercials to really see the movements and styles of current models This  will help you to learn the trends in fashion,makeup,models of-the-moment,  and you can familiarize yourself with the photographers that are working....    STRIVE: What's next for you? Sheryl:I hope to transition into television hosting,do more televison and films,  and start a non-profit organization for young women ages 7-16 to help  empower them and give them a forum to voice their thoughts on everything  from peer pressure,bullying,body image,sexual health and wellness, and drug  and alcohol abuse as well as create exposure to art, music,cultural  activities, financial planning,career paths, and goal setting.    STRIVE: As young professionals, entrepenuers and artists, what should we (Strivers)  consider, ponder (while making our dreams comes true? Sheryl: We should strive to achieve even more than we can conceive  but do it without comprimising our dignity, morals, and soul. Like Dave  Chapelle said "Name your price when you get in so when it gets to high you  will know when to stand your ground or walk away."]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Finesse Mitchell</title><dc:creator>www.illustcat.net</dc:creator><category>TV/Movies</category><dc:date>2006-03-26T02:27:53-05:00</dc:date><link>http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/197c8fd6291aa26cf4d103cad8e5d338-18.html#unique-entry-id-18</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/197c8fd6291aa26cf4d103cad8e5d338-18.html#unique-entry-id-18</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[Well right now I am building momentum.  STRIVE: What is the first thing you think of when you wake up in the morning and what is the last thing you think of at night. FINESSE: The first thing on my mind, when I wake up: Am I late for something?...  Worked hard for the audition, now I am in NY for Saturday Night Live.  STRIVE: Is there any other info you would like to tell about yourself?...  That keeps me balanced. Shot-Outs to: My Lil Mama.  STRIVE: What&rsquo;s Next for you? FINESSE: I plan to own a comedy club, also do some writing and directing.]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Deemo and Fusion</title><dc:creator>www.illustcat.net</dc:creator><category>Music</category><dc:date>2006-03-19T02:26:51-05:00</dc:date><link>http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/9b6a11eb12bae793ce7418fdac0795c2-17.html#unique-entry-id-17</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/9b6a11eb12bae793ce7418fdac0795c2-17.html#unique-entry-id-17</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[  A member of the group, the multi-talented Dee-Morris (singer/songwriter with FUSION) sat with Strive to talk about real striving: his past being homeless, down and out yet never stopping....  Two of many credits include performances live on the FUSE NETWORK, as well as on the red carpet at the BILLBOARD AWARDS........  Members include: MITCH, AC, ATLAS  DEE-MORRIS, an African-American singer/songwriter/musician originally from the Washington DC area, currently resides in Jamaica, Queens....  He has a passion for performing regardless of the stage and as a determined young individual, he has a relentless vision of success that he contributes to FUSION.................   Continuing to hone their skills with internationally known vocal teacher Craig Derry, FUSION displays an enormous amount of potential as they prepare to embark on the music industry.]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Gordon Chambers First Interview</title><dc:creator>www.illustcat.net</dc:creator><category>Music</category><dc:date>2006-03-12T02:25:35-05:00</dc:date><link>http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/0d76961b2cc24db5fbd45f7cbedb755c-16.html#unique-entry-id-16</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/0d76961b2cc24db5fbd45f7cbedb755c-16.html#unique-entry-id-16</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[More recently, the eight-time ASCAP winner has written and producers for superstars Yolanda Adams (&ldquo;Someone Watching Over Me&rdquo, Patti Labelle and Ron Isley ("Gotta Go Solo&rdquo Whitney Houston and Bobby Brown ("My Love"), R&B crooner Carl Thomas ("My Valentine"), breakthrough soul singer Angie Stone "No More Rain (In This Cloud)," and pop sensation Beyonce ("After All Is Said And Done").

...When you write songs for various artists, do you base the lyrics on the person&rsquo;s style or do you write songs based on your love of music, and those lyrics just happened to fit a particular artist&rsquo;s style? A....  I find that my music is most popular in New York, Detroit, DC, Atlanta, London, and Japan (even though I&rsquo;ve never been to Japan) because I&rsquo;m getting played on the radio a lot; and there are certain record stores that have supported my record.]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>J Nice Producer</title><dc:creator>www.illustcat.net</dc:creator><category>Music</category><dc:date>2006-03-05T02:23:04-05:00</dc:date><link>http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/adc0db31017afd40a1ec4e5e9a13cc56-15.html#unique-entry-id-15</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/adc0db31017afd40a1ec4e5e9a13cc56-15.html#unique-entry-id-15</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[ Where are you from? I was born in Brooklyn, NY and raised in South Side Queens (South Ozone PK), NY.  How did you end up in the production business? One of the most important things in trying to establish yourself in any business is creating a lot of contacts; in other words meeting a lot of people and establishing some kind of bond with them....  Doing that definitely got me through the doors to producing records.  Who are some of the artists you have produced for? I've produced for Grafh, Miri Ben-Ari, Craig Mack, Shalone, Outlawz, Infa Red and Sean Cross and I also produced a Song for the cast of the Broadway musical, "Wicked".  Has this always been something that you have wanted to do? When I was a lot younger, no....  I will also be working with Valentine Whittaker creating the score for his upcoming animations series.  I want to thank Hate, Valentine and Jnyflower for keeping my plate full.  To contact me for music production, you can call or email Hate: 516 852 4960 Email: Starbusny@aol.com Website: Q9productions.com check out my bio below    Jamal Pilgrim aka JNICE Biography Jamal Pilgrim aka J.N.I.C.E was born on September 20, 1978 in Brooklyn, NY.]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Dhani Jones</title><dc:creator>www.illustcat.net</dc:creator><category>Sports</category><dc:date>2006-02-28T02:15:04-05:00</dc:date><link>http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/b185ac50f8efe0d9ac6ea5b705eeae07-11.html#unique-entry-id-11</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/b185ac50f8efe0d9ac6ea5b705eeae07-11.html#unique-entry-id-11</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[In studying what makes the great so great (the STRIVER LIFESTYLE) I have learned that there is one thing Dhani practices (similar to other affluent folk): and that's team building...

...Being able to be where you want in life, e.g. if I want to be on the beach, I can go to the beach.Also being able to do the things that make you smile.

...Current Projects for Dhani: Co-host for ESPN2 show &ldquo;TIMELESS&rdquo; Weekly co-host for Fox Sports Radio (nationally syndicated) morning show Co-host for weekly show &ldquo;Football Frenzy&rdquo; on PVI Donates much of his spare timethe ALS association Also his new company Five Star Ties]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Keisha Battiste Fly Girl</title><dc:creator>www.illustcat.net</dc:creator><category>Fashion and Style</category><dc:date>2006-02-22T02:19:38-05:00</dc:date><link>http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/ff96ebd1cbd55f9c244cc8676119be8d-14.html#unique-entry-id-14</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/ff96ebd1cbd55f9c244cc8676119be8d-14.html#unique-entry-id-14</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[Your personal time is great, but know that it is not like an average day to day job where you will be able to go home to your own bed every night and on the road, you spend a lot of time alone.

...Stand up is one of most challenging things a person can do, but if you've ever tried it and have witnessed a crowd falling out over your jokes, it's addictive, so I'm about to get back into that some time soon.

...I would rarely ever talk about my gigs to anyone, including friends, so people would sometimes run across something like one of the novels and say "It's crazy, I saw this girl on the cover of this lusty book that looked like you" and I'm like "That WAS me."]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Jacqueline N. Howell: The New Senior V.P. at allhiphop.com </title><dc:creator>www.illustcat.net</dc:creator><category>Business</category><dc:date>2006-02-03T10:12:01-05:00</dc:date><link>http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/d47f294c849ee0f0e8b5b301972dce59-5.html#unique-entry-id-5</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/d47f294c849ee0f0e8b5b301972dce59-5.html#unique-entry-id-5</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[Jacqueline Howell Esq.: Before I became General Counsel, SVP of Business Development & Legal Affairs at AllHipHop.com, I was an associate at Davis & Gilbert LLP, the #1 media and communications law firm in the country.

...I can immediately tell when someone is still searching for their right path in life&hellip;that&rsquo;s the person in the office who has time to comment on someone else&rsquo;s clothes or that girlfriend who sits around and criticizes everyone.

...But in the end, my business plan wins because, no matter what title I hold or how much money I make, I will always &ldquo;own&rdquo; my career and my destiny.]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Diane DaCosta</title><dc:creator>www.illustcat.net</dc:creator><category>Fashion and Style</category><dc:date>2006-02-02T02:16:20-05:00</dc:date><link>http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/51d720262c9cab2f7ef9687a75b05bcf-12.html#unique-entry-id-12</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/51d720262c9cab2f7ef9687a75b05bcf-12.html#unique-entry-id-12</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[After training for 1 -2 years with top stylist in NY and around the world, My big break came while working at Turning Heads Salon, when Essence Magazine called for a photo shoot to create a natural twist out style on a dancer.

...I am from a tradition Caribbean family (you know the saying..Doctor, Lawyer or Indian Chief..., we have someone in the medical field, a lawyer and designer in the family) however, I was always creative and wanted to follow my dreams..and incorporate business as well..which My mother supported, since I always get what I want..(Not so much my dad) But when I opened my first salon...they quickly changed their minds and saw that I was an Entreprenuer and when you follow your dreams and passion, you really begin to live & love life and then the money always follows.

...do you have any experience styling these types DIANE: Yes, I trained with the best in the business and I work with all textures, whether, naturally straight, wavy, relaxed, textured, curly, coily, locs etc. Hair is Hair Texture...different nationalities or different backgrounds is my specialty, since I am from a multicultural background, Caribbean (Asian & Black).]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Ryan Mack</title><dc:creator>www.illustcat.net</dc:creator><category>Business</category><dc:date>2006-01-22T02:14:31-05:00</dc:date><link>http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/2ce8453ff6df78c67b24d5da8dc21743-10.html#unique-entry-id-10</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/2ce8453ff6df78c67b24d5da8dc21743-10.html#unique-entry-id-10</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[UP FROM ZERO personal finance guru: Ryan Mack  President &ndash; Ryan Charles Mack of Optimum Capital Management  rmack@optimumcapitalmanagement.com  Ryan Mack graduated from the University of Michigan Business School (ranked number one in the country) with a concentration in Finance....  Having a passion for teaching he established his own financial awareness group in 2003 where he began to publish regular newsletters about various financial related issues that were of interest to people from all income levels.   Having had the opportunity to continue his career with several of the nation&rsquo;s largest and most prestigious financial planning firms, Mr. Mack believed there was an industry void relative to providing advice and services to a broader spectrum of individuals....   STRIVE had the opportunity to sit with this young striver and determine how he made it thru.   How did I arrive at this point in my life?   I have always had a lot of support from my mother.]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Kadijah Songstress</title><dc:creator>www.illustcat.net</dc:creator><category>Music</category><dc:date>2006-01-05T02:11:46-05:00</dc:date><link>http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/8c03cc8a4e9adce6a5f462f5f132e60e-9.html#unique-entry-id-9</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/8c03cc8a4e9adce6a5f462f5f132e60e-9.html#unique-entry-id-9</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[Given her experience in Rock, Hip-Hop and R&B (just to name a few) we had to holler at the background singer turned up and coming songwriter....  I plan to take over this game with my  God-given talents.  STRIVE: DO TIMES GET HARD, WHATS THE MOST DEGRADING THING YOU HAVE HAD TO DO?...  I haven't even been at this writing thing for a whole year yet  and already my dreams are coming to fruition.I'm finding that what may  be the norm for most doesn't have to apply to my experience.]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Wil Sylvince Comedian</title><dc:creator>www.illustcat.net</dc:creator><category>TV/Movies</category><dc:date>2005-12-05T02:10:49-05:00</dc:date><link>http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/de7537d5f7a9afcb8089c245c0b20ebc-8.html#unique-entry-id-8</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://strivemagazine.com/Cover%20Page/files/de7537d5f7a9afcb8089c245c0b20ebc-8.html#unique-entry-id-8</guid><content:encoded><![CDATA[His film and TV appearances include the movie, 30 Years to Life- a Comic Indie Feature starring SNL comedian Tracey Morgan, Showtime at the Apollo, the Apollo Comedy Hour, several appearances on BET&rsquo;s Comic View, Russell Simmons Def Comedy Jam, and the Chris Rock show....      For those of you who have had the great experience of seeing a comedic performance by Wil, you know that you definitely get your moneys worth and much more, and you will be laughing for days thinking about the jokes he told and trying to retell them to your friends....  Strive will definitely keep you posted on Wil&rsquo;s shows as we are true supporters and know that this brother is headed for huge amounts of well earned success to come.]]></content:encoded></item></channel>
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