Triple the Focus February 2013 Issue

Editor’s Note

Stacey BethelYour [email protected]

SWEPT AWAYAccording to the American Psychological Association, “The Stress in America survey results show that adults continue to report high lev-els of stress and many report that their stress has increased over the past year.” There is no doubt that many of us live a stressful life. Be it job pressure, money, health, relationships, poor nutrition, media over-load or sleep deprivation, we all experience some form of stress daily. Symptoms often include fatigue, headache, upset stomach, muscle tension, change in appetite, feeling dizzy, anger and the list goes on.

I have experienced at least three of those symptoms and attributed them to not taking time for myself. It is great to have goals and work hard in achieving them. However if you are not the best you, you will never see those goals come to fruition.

Recently I realized that I had not been on vacation in over two years. I desperately needed to recharge my batteries and escape the hus-tle and bustle of the City. So I booked a flight, packed way too much for five days and took off. The trip could not have worked out any better. In between taking naps, having a cocktail or few, going to the beach, hanging out with friends and eating way more than I should have, I did nothing except take care of me. No work whatsoever. I was quite proud of myself.

Now back with fresh new ideas and a renewed purpose, I realized how much my body was craving a little rest and relaxation. That’s why I am in love with our new monthly travel feature, Sojourn: Sun, Sand and Beach. To be able to give you destination ideas is really something that I enjoy and I employ you to book a trip and just take off. Until you get to sink your toes in the sand, soak up the sun and splash around in the crystal blue waters of the Caribbean, sit back, relax and enjoy this month’s issue. Make us a monthly treat that is sure to rejuvenate your mind, body and spirit.

Until next time, stay focused on being the best you!

FEATURES

7 Catching Up with LEON 9 Sojourn: Sun, Sand & Beach

13 Money Matters: How to Save in 2013 & Beyond

16 Asafa Powell: Sprinting for Life 22 Valentine’s Day Beauty Guide

25 DJ Lonz: Jane of All Trades

28 drennaLuna: Powered Style

33 Trip to Dre Island

36 Island Boy Designs

39 Look What We’re Pinterested In

Contents Issue 16| February 2013

Issue 16 | February 2013 5

MY 2013 NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS

1. Exercise at least 5 times per week via Nike Fitness, Gym or Insanity. Ok this shouldn’t be too hard especially if the rewards are a healthier me and a killer beach body.

2. Maintain a sensible diet. Gone are the days of not eating dinner and having crap for lunch.

3. Hang out with friends and family at least once a month. All work and no play will make Stacey a dull girl.

4. Consistently tithe every week. 5. Try something new at least once a month.

6. Stress less about the things I cannot change. That is one tall order.

7. Read at least two books per month. Woot woot! I am intending that to mean Magazines as well.

8. No work or social media on Sundays. Wowzers! This one is going to take a lot of discipline and locking away my cell phone.

9. Better time management I am late more times than I would like to admit. So this I am adamant to change.

10. Say “no” more. No more stretching myself thin. Being able to say, “I wish I could but I can’t” is easier said than done. But if it helps to eliminate my stress, then NO it is.

11. Be a little more selfish with my time.

12. Stop making excuses for others.

13. Do more of the things I love. Easy breezy!

14. Complete projects that I have already started. Of all the resolutions, this might be the one that will not get done be cause I have ADD!

15. Be more spontaneous. No one likes the chick that plans everything. Boring!!!

From The Desk oFsTACeY A. BeTheL

Last February Actor and Musician, LEON graced the cover of our Valentine’s Day issue and we could not have been more pleased. Just a few months old, I was delighted that he gave our pub-lication the time of day. That to me speaks vol-umes about his character. Or could it have been because we have a mutual friend in the form of our Creative Director, Victor E. Lewis. Having spent some time with LEON and now being able to call him my friend, I am going to say it is 95 per-cent of the former and 5 percent of the latter. He is truly humble in every sense of the word. There is nothing pretentious or arrogant about him.

Not only did he steam up the cover with his im-possible good looks and sex appeal, he gave us a no holds barred interview that left readers want-ing to know more. A few weeks after his feature, I had the pleasure of spending some time with LEON in Jamaica when he took a break from film-ing to host the launch of the magazine in Kings-ton. I have since charted that as one of the most riveting experiences of my life, one I hold dear to my heart. Why? I’ll let you know in the next fea-ture we do of LEON.

Fast forward a year later and he has not been able to get rid of us. He is what I would call a honorary member of our team. We try to keep up with his busy schedule but it is next to impos-sible as he is constantly on the go. However, as a result of my shameless nagging, he took a little time to answer a few questions all while in route to Calgary from LA. Consider this our Valentine’s Day gift to you.

TENNIS

When did you start playing: About 4 years ago in Jamaica.

Who have you trained with: Dave Marshall at Dave Marshall’s Tennis Academy in Lewis Dela-ware. I’m there often and he coaches me off site as well. I have also trained with Joe Hill at Pied-mont Tennis Center in Atlanta. He coaches my daughter, Noelle.

List some of the countries where you have played: The US, Mexico and Jamaica thus far.

What celebrities have you played with: Don’t play with celebrities - it’s not a pop-style ting! The clos-est to that would be my best friend Bob Johnson (BET) or ex-NY Knick legend, Charles Oakley. Len-nox Lewis says he wants to play but still waiting on the Champ! MUSIC – LEON AND THE PEOPLES

Tour: We’re currently planning a couple of small tours (East coast/West coast) supporting our new single “Love is A Beautiful Thing.”

New Music: We have a new single that we are working on that will be out in the Spring. Music Video: Love is A Beautiful Thing!

ACTING

What are you currently working on: A romantic drama, “Someone to Love”.

Have anything that will be released this year: My next starring role to be release is “Ex-Free” a ro-mantic comedy.

Talk about Cool Runnings 20th Anniversary: Cur-rently in route to Calgary Family Film Fest Gala to honor the 20th Anniversary. There are celebrations being planned for Jamaica and maybe the US. Thousands of films are made every year but very few are remembered and even less honored. I feel very blessed to have been in some memo-rable and iconic films such as The Five Heart Beats which was celebrated by the BET Awards. I’m just glad audiences love the work!

OTHER

Talk about other projects or business ventures etc: I’m very excited about my new production com-pany Pulse Cinema with my partner Joel “JK” Kip-nis located in downtown NYC and part of Pulse Music (our record label). We’ll be making feature length films, shorts, documentaries, series and some music videos for Pulse artists. The facility is one of the best in the city and the location could not be better. Ask Oprah, she was working there just before Christmas!

CATCHING UP WITH ACTOR AND SINGER, LEON!


STACEY BETHELEditor in Chief

Creative Director: VICTOR E. LEWIS

Art & Content Director: MIKELAH ROSE

Fashion Director: ARLENE MARTIN (drennaLuna)

Photographers: CHAMPION HAMILTON | AJAMU MYRIE

Contributing WritersSHANTELL “SHANz” HILLJODY-ANN WILLIAMS

RAINE MARTINMALAIKA LEPINECHRISTENE CARR

ABOUT TRIPLE THE FOCUSTriple the Focus is a Music, Entertainment and Lifestyle E-Magazine published monthly. Released October 5, 2011, the goal of the E-zine is to provide a platform for industry in-siders that will assist in connecting them with their fans on a more personal level. With behind the scenes photos, exclu-sive interviews, fashion and lifestyle tidbits, Triple the Focus is the brainchild of Triple 7 Entertainment LLC’s, a PR firm, CEO Stacey Bethel (nee Williams), who serves as Editor in Chief of the Magazine. Creative Director, Victor E. Lewis is the CEO of VicRae, Inc. whose clients include Actor, Leon, Third World Band, Jadine – Soca Diva and more. Art & Content Director, Mikelah Rose has worked for JAMROCK Magazine, VP Records, TEMPO Networks and has her own blog, Style & Vibes. For more information, email [email protected].

CONTACTEmail: [email protected]: 201-981-6960 (US)

Follow us: @TRIPLETHEFOCUS

STACEY BETHELEditor in Chief

Creative Director: VICTOR E. LEWIS

Art & Content Director: MIKELAH ROSE

Fashion Director: ARLENE MARTIN (drennaLuna)

Photographers: CHAMPION HAMILTON | AJAMU MYRIE

Contributing WritersSHANTELL “SHANz” HILLJODY-ANN WILLIAMS

RAINE MARTINMALAIKA LEPINECHRISTENE CARR

FEATURE RESORT: Rosewood Little Dix Bay, Virgin GordaVIRGIN GORDA, BVI - Just beyond a colorful barrier reef, lapped by gentle blue waters, lies Rosewood Little Dix Bay® - a truly authentic destination, tamed for sophisticated tastes. The timeless boutique resort on Virgin Gorda offers tranquility found nowhere else in the Caribbean. Little Dix rewards its dis-cerning guests with an instantaneous retreat from their fast-paced lives - an unmatched Caribbean vacation getaway offering fine dining, an award-winning spa, luxury villas and beachfront rooms and suites.

Imagine a luminous half-mile crescent beach of soft white sand caressed by sapphire waters. An en-chanting landscape where lush mountaintops tower above rock cathedrals carved over eons of time. Within the secluded, sun-kissed splendor of Virgin Gorda, lies the British Virgin Islands’ most exclusive resort – Rosewood Little Dix Bay.

Established in 1964 by Laurance Rockefeller, the resort remains true to its founder’s vision of natural harmony while offering an escape from the ordinary. The resort’s accommodations are nestled amid lush gardens and shaded footpaths that curve through verdant lawns just a stone’s throw from the beach. Superb cuisine is served amidst dramatic backdrops of sand, sea and sky. In this sophisticated playground, guests enjoy an array of leisure pursuits, exceptional service and privacy.

Activities & Amenities

• Three beachfront restaurants• Diving, snorkeling & watersports• Tennis, hiking & sailing• Beachside pool• Visits to nearby beaches by water

taxi• Children’s Grove• Fitness Center• Sense, A Rosewood Spa

W: rosewoodhotels.com/en/littledix-bay T: 888.ROSEWOOD

W: www.capest.comT: +33(0)1 53 75 22 37

Sojourn: Sun, Sand and Beach


DOMINICA: ROSALIE AN ECO-BOUTIQUE DOMINICA HOTEL THAT’S SIMPLY MAGICAL

Prepare to be mesmerized by unsurpassed natural beauty. Let the magnetic force of the ocean pull away the stress of everyday life leaving in its place a feeling of peace.

Welcome to Rosalie Bay, an eco-boutique and well-ness resort inspired by nature.

Rosalie Bay is a sanctuary amid the wilds of Dominica - the Nature Island in the Caribbean. Just 45 minutes from the capital city Roseau, our intimate eco-bou-tique Dominica hotel features 28 spacious rooms and suites, organic cuisine, nature-inspired spa, personal-ized wellness program chic amenities, a black sand beach where turtles safely nest, and more.

Since opening in January 2011, Rosalie Bay Resort has received wide acclaim earning Green Globe certifi-cation, a Travel + Leisure Global Vision Award, Domi-nica Resort of the Year, a finalist in the US Secretary of State Award for Corporate Excellence and more.

Built by hand over the course of nine years, Rosalie Bay Resort is a dream and labor of love for owner Bev and her partner Oscar. They created an eco-resort to share the beauty of the nature isle with visitors, empower the local residents and protect the environment.

Nestled at the foothills of the Morne Trois Pitons, an UNESCO World Heritage Site, on the southeast coast, our Dominica hotel sits on 22 verdant acres at the in-

tersection of the ever-changing Atlantic Ocean and crystal clear Rosalie River.

Stunning natural beauty and modern touches work together in perfect harmony to create a vacation where you feel rejuvenated, relaxed and reconnect-ed. It is simply magical.

W: www.rosaliebay.com | T: 877-732-2864

CAYMAN ISLANDS: THE RITz CARLTON GRAND CAYMAN

Discover The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman, a luxury resort where sparkling blue waters blend seamlessly with the sand and sky to create your perfect Carib-bean oasis. Located on an archipelago of three pic-turesque islands, our Cayman Islands resort offers a breathtaking location unlike anywhere else on earth. From the white sands of Seven Mile Beach to world-renowned restaurants including Blue, by renowned seafood chef Eric Ripert, The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cay-man luxury resort offers guests an unforgettable es-cape from the everyday.

Guest Room Features & Amenities

• Private balcony with ocean, resort or garden view

• Goose down and non-allergenic pillows • Feather duvets • Spacious marble bathrooms with separate show-

er and bathtub • In-room high-speed and wireless Internet • Fully stocked refreshment bar with refrigerator • 24-hour in-room dining • Twice-daily housekeeping attention • All rooms are non-smoking

W: ritzcarlton.com/en/Properties/GrandCaymanT: 345-943-9000

MONTSERRAT: TROPICAL MANSION SUITES Welcome to Tropical Mansion Suites. A beautiful eigh-teen room boutique hotel with stunning views of the Caribbean Sea and the lush Centre and Silver Hills.

Tropical Mansion Suites is the perfect destination for your business or vacation needs. Our outstanding lo-cation puts you within minutes drive of the airport, Port Little Bay, Brades Commercial Center, the beaches, as well as number of local restaurants and shops.

After a busy day, our pool area, with its p i c t u r e s q u e gazebo, and tropical gar-dens are a great place to relax and un-wind.

W: tropicalm-ansion.com T: 664-491-8767

ST. BARTS: EDEN ROCK ST. BARTHS Eden Rock – St. Barths offers im-peccable attention to detail, un-paralleled levels of service and housekeeping - and a driven commitment to creating a unique holiday for the world’s elite vaca-tioners – and all in a relaxed and good-humoured way with friend-ly and efficient staff in every job. Use of the famous French word ‘non’ is banned at Eden Rock – St. Barths.

ER is located on a rocky promon-tory and is surrounded by white coral sandy beaches, blue sea and a lovely coral reef full of wild sea life all of this on the independent and celebrated French island of St. Barths. Eden Rock – St. Barths is a member of Relais & Chateaux.

Eden Rock – St. Barths offers 34 highly individual accommodations located “on the rock” as well as dotted along the beach. Each guest accommodation has been individually decorated by Jane Matthews. All ac-commodations have flat screen satellite televisions, DVD players, complimentary high speed internet access, Bulgari amenities – and lots lots more. A generous and non- corporate business approach has always been the way of it at the family owned Eden Rock.Eden Rock Estates is our ultraluxe six-star villa product. This includes Villa Rockstar and Villa Nina both at Eden Rock – and coming soon will be The Glen Affric Estate in the Highlands of Scotland where a lovingly restored 8 bedroom lodge sits on a rock surrounded by the deep water of Loch Affric and 10,000 acres of Highland wil-derness.

W: st-barths.com/eden-rock/en/home.html|T: +590-590-29-79-99

CURACAO: AVIL A HOTEL

The Avila Hotel is a luxury beachfront re-sort on the Dutch Caribbean island of Curacao, selected as favourite Carib-bean destination in About.com’s 2012 “Readers’ Choice Awards”. The Avila Ho-tel has been awarded the title of a 2012 as well as 2011 Fodor’s Choice property by Fodor’s Travel, the leading provider of travel intelligence for American trav-ellers for 75 years!

Our aim is to deliver to our guests a sense of timeless elegance, a bygone age de-livered in a modern package. A blend of authentic ambience of the past blend-ed with the comforts of today. The sun, sea, beaches and our optimal down-town location combine with a sense of belonging to make the Avila Hotel one of the most popular luxury hotels in Cu-racao. Whether for business, romance or simple pleasure, we use our gift of hospitality to ensure that the Avila Hotel is not only a location, but also a destination.

‘Make it your Hotel’ is our goal. Whether for pleasure, business, a honeymoon or wedding, it is our aim to have you experience the Avila Hotel as your second home. With over 60 years of experience, we are confident that we can offer you an unforgettable stay on the island of Curacao.

W: avilahotel.com | T: 800-747-8162 (US & Canada Only) | +599-9-461-4377


Living on a budget takes practice! But having a nest egg for unexpected expenses can save you a lot of stress and provide peace of mind. Here a few tips that we picked up.

1. AUTOMATIC WITHDRAWAL: Have your bank with-hold and deposit a portion of your paycheck into your savings account. That way you don’t have to think about doing so – it’s already done for you. Another great way to save is to enroll in 401K. Have your em-ployer withhold a percentage of your paycheck every pay period.

2. SELL WHAT YOU DON’T HAVE USE FOR: We all have tons of stuff that is just collecting dust. Take cloth-ing, handbags and shoes to your local consignment store and have them sell items for you at a minimal fee. Also try Craigslist or eBay. This way you not only earn extra cash but you declutter as well.

3. DINE-IN: Why not cut down the amount of time you dine out and use that money to buy groceries and dine-in. This is a way cheaper option and healthier as well.

4. SAY NO TO CREDIT CARDS: Recently, consumers were told that using their credit cards at select stores

will incur a 4% fee. Some stores have vowed to absorb fee so as to not lose their customers. But to be on the safe side, use cash whenever possible and shop smart – use coupons, wait for sales etc.

5. CREATE A BUDGET: Sitting down and creating a monthly budget is a sure fire way of eliminating unnec-essary expenses.

MONEY MATTERS: HOW TO SAVE IN 2013 AND BE-YOND!

Tip 1: Start or boost your emergency savings account

Since the biggest barrier to saving is not being in the habit of saving, the best way to get in the habit is to pay yourself first. Have money directly deposited from your paycheck or even your checking account into a dedicated savings vehicle. This can be done concurrently with other goals such as paying down debt or saving for retirement, not instead of those goals. You won’t miss what you don’t see, and put-ting your savings on autopilot is a great way to reinforce the savings habit when unplanned expenses inevitably come along and chew a hole in what you’ve saved.

Tip 2: Get an online savings account

There are three requirements when looking for a place to put your rainy-day fund. It must be liquid, meaning you can get to the money whenever you need it. It must be free of investment risk. And, you must earn a return that preserves your buying power against the erosive effect of inflation.

Even at just over 1 percent, the top-yielding savings ac-counts and money market deposit accounts insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. meet the first two of those requirements, and while returns still trail the rate of inflation, they are the first to eclipse inflation should the pace of price increases fall or when interest rates eventually pick up. Best of all, these accounts can be found with little or nothing in

the way of a minimum deposit and are available to con-sumers anywhere in the 50 states.

Tip 3: Find a free checking account

Having the wrong checking account can take hundreds of hard-earned dollars out of your pocket every year. Look for an account that charges no monthly service fees or per-transaction bank fees and doesn’t require a minimum bal-ance.

Tip 4: Track your monthly spending

Just 60 percent of Americans track their spending against a monthly budget. Whether you call it a budget or a spending plan, getting a handle on your spending accomplishes two things: It helps you determine where you can cut back and helps maximize your savings efforts.

Begin by tracking your spending for a two-month period. Then take this information and build a realistic monthly budget. Each month, track all of your expenses, everything from the $1 tip to the grocery store bag boy to the monthly mortgage payment. At month’s end, tally up your spending against the budget and see where you did well and where you didn’t. If you spent less than planned, move the excess into your online savings account or use it to pay down debt.

10 SUPER-SAVING TIPS FOR 2013courtesy of BANKRATE.COM

Issue 16 | Feb. 2013 13

Tip 5: Pay down high-interest credit card debt

For many households, the best return on your money is to pay down credit card debt. Whether carrying balances at 12 percent or 22 percent, credit card debt is typically the costliest debt households have. Plowing excess cash into repayment of credit card debt is a double-digit, risk-free re-turn because it reduces the outstanding balance and the resulting interest charges.

This is a sound move now while credit card rates remain low. Consumers with strong credit profiles can find interest rates in the single digits as well as balance-transfer offers with a zero percent rate lasting 12 months or more.

Tip 6: Begin or increase contributions to a workplace retire-ment program

The burden of supporting ourselves in retirement is increas-ingly on our shoulders. The first introduction to retirement savings often comes through a workplace retirement plan, such as a 401(k). Contributions not only reduce your taxable income now, but your investment goes to work immediately and grows without the headwind of taxes until you begin withdrawals in retirement.

The regular contributions made with each paycheck repre-sent the best example of dollar-cost averaging, or buying fewer shares when values are high but more shares when prices fall. Any employer contribution represents free mon-ey, so be sure to contribute at least enough to maximize any employer match.

If your employer offers a Roth 401(k), your contributions are made with after-tax dollars, but withdrawals in retirement will not be dinged by taxes at all, allowing you to keep your entire nest egg.

Tip 7: Make an IRA contribution

If you or your spouse have earned income, then you are eligible to contribute to an individual retirement account, or IRA. For 2013, those younger than 50 can contribute a max-imum of $5,500, assuming your earned income is at least that much, and those ages 50 and older can contribute up

to $6,500, thanks to the permissible catch-up contributions.

You can open an IRA with a bank, credit union, brokerage firm or mutual fund company, and invest the contributions how you choose. An IRA can be a great way to supple-ment the asset allocation of your workplace retirement plan where you may be limited to an available menu of invest-ments. With an IRA, you can choose investments that aren’t available in your workplace retirement plan, such as com-modities, individual stocks or certificates of deposit, giving you access to investment options that result in a more diver-sified portfolio.

A traditional IRA offers tax-deferred savings, while a Roth IRA offers tax-free savings for retirement. While directly contrib-uting to a Roth IRA is limited based on household income, converting a traditional IRA to a Roth IRA is not.

Tip 8: Sign up for a flexible spending account

Almost everyone incurs costs for medicine, prescriptions and medical copayments. Perhaps you also have depen-dent care expenses while you’re working or pay commuting costs to get to work.

If your employer offers a flexible spending account as part of the benefits, consider signing up. A flexible spending account, or FSA, allows you to pay for medical care, de-pendent care or transportation costs with pretax dollars set aside with every paycheck. By paying with pretax dollars instead of after-tax dollars, you’re essentially getting a dis-count on all these expenses you regularly incur.

Tip 9: Consider a rewards credit card

Do you always pay your credit card balance in full? If so, you’re the ideal candidate for a rewards credit card. With a rewards credit card, you are compensated in the form of cash back, airline miles or one of many other methods for everyday purchases you make.

Identify what type of reward is most appealing to you, and compare card offers based on what percentage of your purchases are paid out in rewards. A 1 percent reward ratio is the most common, but many cards exist that have higher payouts for certain categories of spending or above a cer-tain spending threshold.

Tip 10: Refinance your mortgage

How is this considered a savings tip? With wages at a stand-still for many households, mortgage refinancing can cre-ate some much-needed breathing room in the household budget. Mortgage rates have continued to set record lows. With expanded eligibility for the Home Affordable Refinanc-ing Program, many deeply upside-down borrowers whose homes are less in value than what they owe are eligible to refinance their mortgages at more attractive interest rates. This cuts monthly payments by hundreds of dollars.

Sprinting through Life

Photography: Marc EvansMake-Up: Racquel Jenkins Moss-SolomonWardrobe: MAXBROWNLocation: Cru at the Courtyard


Names such as Michael Jackson, David Beckham and Tiger Woods are recognized worldwide and synonymous with excellence and

Asafa Powell is no exception. Holding the 100m world record three years in a row, this humble athlete came close to missing his calling.

God, education and track played an im-portant role in his life, however running is embedded in his DNA as both his parents, who are also Ministers, and oldest siblings were runners. While attending High School in Jamaica, Asafa had his sights set on becoming a mechanic. But there was a much larger plan in store. After failing to progress past the 1st round at the High School Championships, his desire to run only intensified and a legend was born.

Hard work and dedication lead him to the 2004 Athens Olympics, and although he didn’t win a medal, representing his be-loved country was a feat in itself, and fol-lowing his Olympic disappointment Asafa set a new national record of 9.87 seconds for the 100 meter at the Memorial Van Damme in Bruxelles.

The path to his success hasn’t been easy. Asafa has suffered many injuries and set-backs during his athletic career. Refus-ing to concede defeat he finally got his first Olympic medal at the 2008 Olympics in Beijing as he anchored the Jamaican 4×100 meter relay team to victory, estab-lishing a new world record in the process.

Following the 2012 Olympics in London, Asafa Powell’s name was once again

plastered all over the media, but no critics were harsher on this phenomenal athlete than he was on himself. I recently had the pleasure speaking to Asafa to catch up on what’s been going on.

First let me congratulate you on all your success, to make it to the Olympics again was a major feat, only a few can achieve that dream. I know that you have spoken at length of the London Olympic, but if I may, if you could sum up your experience in a few words, what would you say?

It was a bitter sweet experience for me. An honor to be one of the few that made it but sad and disappointed that my groin injury caused me to have to stop during the 100M final.

Why do you think that so many fans who clearly adore you, were so harsh and criti-cal of you at the London Olympics?

Because they expect so much from me as I do from myself and when I don’t meet their expectations they feel upset and an-gry so they lash out. I understand their dis-appointment.

When you compete in the Olympics, do you run against your team mates, yourself or other countries?

Myself ... I am pushing myself each time to do better than the last.

How has social media impacted you as an athlete?

It has been an amazing change to when I

Asafa Powell

Sprinting through Life

By Malaika Lepine

“Focus on your goals and work each day to achieve them. You can’t expect to be a world class athlete overnight it takes continuous training and dedication and you must expect to fail in order to know what to work on to get better.”

first began competing ... To be able to see the support in real time is great. Also to get feedback directly from fans, see pic-tures or videos they captured of special moments on/off the track is phenomenal.

What is your relationship like with the oth-er members of Jamaica’s Olympic track team?

We’re a team ... They are all amazing ath-letes and I respect them all. I am proud of what was accomplished and I look for-ward to seeing more athletes come into their own in the years to come.

What makes Jamaica #1 in track?

I think we have a great training environ-ment as far as weather, terrain, comfort levels. We also have a great and early start as far as running up and down nat-urally as kids. Combine that with being a competitive people we are great at whatever we set out to do.

When you are not training what do you do?

I love to work on my cars, race, play dom-inoes and spend time with my family and friends.

Where do you find the will power and dedication?

It comes from years of training and being committed to what I do. I have great par-ents who led by example and a coach who pushes me to be the best I can be.

For the young people who want to emu-late you what advice can you give them?

Don’t ever give up on your dreams. Fo-cus on your goals and work each day to achieve them. You can’t expect to be a world class athlete overnight it takes con-tinuous training and dedication and you must expect to fail in order to know what to work on to get better.

Are you involved in any particular chari-ties?

Yes I have my foundation which focuses on children and education and empow-ering them.

Do you think of retirement? And when you do decide to hang up your shoes, what do you want to do?

Not for another 4/5 years. If and when I do I will probably go full time into cars. Whether it be a garage or if Formula One racing is ready for me I would love to get on that race track. :)

I was informed that you will be wearing a new hat as a newspaper columnist for Ja-maica’s newspaper “The Observer”. How did this come about and what will the col-umn be about?

It stared a few weeks ago... It’s called Ask Asafa. It came about because I get a lot of the same questions about fitness, relationships and what to/not to do from fans and friends (mainly female) so Tara and I talked and we thought it would be a good way to tackle a lot of these ques-tions in one place. So the column came to life.

I had the pleasure of visiting your site Ia-mAsafa.com, it is very beautiful, interac-tive and informative, I also noticed that there was an online shop, what can your fans get and is this available worldwide?

Thank you... They can get a variety of things... From tee-shirts to iPhone cases as well as baby clothes and work out neces-sities like water bottles and sweats. Yes it ships worldwide.

What is next for Asafa?

What’s next for me is a variety of things in-cluding a calendar for 2014 which will be available in September of this year. I will also be doing a fashion show for charity in the 1st quarter of 2013. I also will be pursu-ing modeling in 2013 as it’s something my female fans keep asking about and I tried it out late last year and enjoyed it so we’ll see where it goes.


“Being a competitive people we are great at whatever we set out to do.”

Your Valentine’s Day Beauty GuideBy Christene Carr

Talk to the skeptics and they’ll tell you Valentine’s Day is a purely commercial holiday. But do you care about the commercialism if you are pampering and spoiling yourself? Don’t wait for some-one else to treat you like you’re special. Here are a few items every girl should have this Valentine’s Day and every day.

Red lips are key to a classic and sexy look.

Stila

Stila Fiery is a highly pigment-ed and weightless lip color that does not bleed or trans-fer. It dries completely matte and can last for up to six hours of continuous wear. $22 Sephora.com

Lancome

Rouge in Love Lipcolor - Se-quence of Love is a feather-weight lipstick that moisturizes and sooths lips while deliver-ing rich color and a brilliant gloss. $26 Sephora.com

NARS

NARS Velvet Gloss Lip Pencil in Baroque - Raspberry Sor-bet is a glossy lip pencil with a smooth almost buttery tex-ture. $24 Sephora.com

Red Lips

Issue 16 | Feb. 2013 23

Warehouse Heart Stud Belt

Cinch your waist in style with this Warehouse Heart Stud belt. It is made of black faux leather and adorned with gold toned heart-shaped studs. $25 warehouse.ando-therbrands.com

So Excessive Liquid Metal Necklace

A great necklace can take an outfit from drab to fab in an instant. Make a splash in a So Excessive Liquid Metal necklace. Available in several tones: silver, gold, rose gold, gold and yellow, black, pew-ter and tarnished gold. $48 So-Excessive.com

Accessories

See by Chloe

See by Chloe is a playful scent for the young and young at heart. It has notes of Juicy Bergamot, Apple, Jas-mine, Ylang Ylang, Vanilla and San-dalwood. $78.00 Nordstrom.com

Balenciaga L’Eau Rose Balenciaga L’Eau Rose is an effer-vescent harmonious combination of green pear, blackberry, spicy notes, violet, rose, jasmin sambac, aromatic notes, Cedar and cypress essence, musk, patchouli and iris. It is tender, yet sophisticated. $90 Nordstrom.com

Perfume

Looking at DJ Lonz, born Loni L. Jones, the first thing everyone tries of figure out is her ethnicity. She clears that up by adding that she is one hundred percent Jamaican however her mom is Scottish/African and her Dad is Irish/African. That aside, she has a graceful charm that makes her approachable. Add to that a smile often accompanied by an equal enviable shade of lipstick and a style that oozes sex appeal.

DJ Lonz is known among the social circles of Kingston, Jamaica as a Model, TV Star, Make-up artist and more recently a DJ. A makeup artist by profession, she attended Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts, where she majored in design and paint. Her services include make-up for weddings, music videos, film and TV. Most notably, she has worked on the set of America’s Next Top Model and with Rapper, Eve for her performance at Shaggy and Friends in Jamaica.

THE EVOLUTION OF DJ LONz

“I have always loved music and was always fascinated with being a DJ. I have virtual DJ on my computer, so am always messing around

with it,’’ she states. But it wasn’t until she made a mix last year that people began to take notice.

Upon visiting her sound cloud page for research into her mixes, I found several but three of which really got me fist pumping SLAP MY TRAP – which features Trap music, SLAP MY PITCH – which features Electro House and DUB-DILIGENCE - which features Dubstep Electronic. While I’ve only heard her spin once at Club Fiction, one of Kingston’s Hot Spot, not only was she good, she showcased a sensual and delicate femininity – a refreshing change to say the least. Her resume is lesser in quantity compared to her rival counterparts however the quality has landed her numerous gigs, such as playing at Blue Beats in Montego Bay, Ultra Inclusive Saturdays – Top Floor, The Quad, Club Privilege, City Style – The Celebrities Play Ground hosted by Saints International Style Week Jamaica, The Housing Project and more recently Big Cupps –SOLARIS Estate.

ONE ON ONE WITH LONI L. JONES

Educational Background: Bishop Gibson High

DJ LONZ: A JANE OF ALL TRADES AND MASTER OF MANY!

By Shantell “Shanz” HillPhotos by Ishango Photography & Dwayne Watkins


School, Edna Manley College of Visual and Performing Arts

Professional Background: DJ - Electronic Dance Music, Professional and Celebrity Makeup Artist, Jane of ALL trades...Head Cook and Bottle Washer lol

When did you fall in love with music: When was I never in love with it?? I’ve always loved music and I’ve been blowing speakers since 1993.

What inspired you to become a DJ: My love of EDM -Electronic Dance Music. It’s happy and feel good music all around. I feel free in a sense when I’m listening and I definitely feel happy when I’m playing too.

Modeling/ MUA has obviously been a beneficial career path for you. How has the transition and multi-tasking been so far: I transitioned from a commercial model, to a pro makeup artist and now a DJ. It has been fun and I still do commercial gigs every now and then. Makeup is my real passion, so I’ll never stop doing that. DJ’n is fun and I love it and I love the looks on people’s faces when they see that it’s ‘Loni Jones’ the makeup artist making them dance. It’s been great!

What’s your most awesome gig so far: Hmmm most awesome!!! I’m still a new DJ and I’d say I’ve had a few that was great. To date it would be the Saints City Style all white Party last year. I played with other DJ’s but there were a lot of people there who had no idea I started Djing and seeing how surprised they were and enjoying my set made me feel very satisfied!

Being a female in a male dominated industry,

what sets you apart from other females breaking through the barriers: I think it is that I concentrate on one genre and a few of its subs. Other female DJ’s play everything else like dancehall, soca, hip-hop etc where I don’t and most play house like they play dancehall. I have studied world known DJ’s sets and mixes so I know how it is to be played. There are no fog horns and pull ups in EDM. It’s just straight music and I love that.

How has the journey been so far: It has been fun and well accepted. I try to make it fun. When I am booked for a gig I try to bring some sexy… lol

Let’s Triple The Focus, February is a month of Love. What’s your take: Love should be celebrated every day. For me, Valentine’s Day is every day. When you are lucky to have someone special that truly loves you, I think that is something you should celebrate each passing day and not on the 14th of February every year.

What’s your special tip on celebrating V-Day: Whatever it is, KEEP IT SEXY!!!

Is Loni Jones on of the market, the gents are asking: I am way off the market…lol

The future is bright, how far ahead do you see yourself in say 5 to 10 years:Still doing everything I am doing now but on a larger scale. Who knows... anything is possible!!

The secret is ours to share, what’s one thing the world doesn’t know and should know about Loni Jones: I sleep with a night light…. Lol.

Contact http://www.twitter.com/LONZtheMUAhttp://www.soundcloud.com/lonz

Photographer: Marc Evans, marcevansim-ages.comMake-up: Angelie Martin-SpencerStylists: Arlene L. MartinClothing: drennaLUNA, drennaLUNA.com.

PowereD sTYLe

In our January fashion feature, we did not in any way reflect on the New Year and the new you with lifestyle and fashion resolutions and changes. We looked at escaping: something that, if done, prepares the mind and body to take on the rest of the year – in my view. Refreshed, there is the energy to keep moving. There was also the con-

sideration of simply being drowned out by all the other New Year articles and planning. So now that we’re a month into the New Year and new habits have kicked in, we think you’re able to take on yet another new element: your style and specifically, your professional style, since so many of us focus on this aspect.

Issue 16| February 2013 29

This page - Pencil skirt and draped top. The simple skirt allows detail, and some drama even, with the gathered front and necklaces.

Previous page - Pencil skirt and chiffon top. This velvet skirt softens the powerful woman you are, while adding to a feminine look is a chiffon top.

Black dress. Every wardrobe needs the simple dress, when the busy day ahead


Cropped pant: For the day of work without meetings when locked away and powering out the work, fun clothing with non-work style elements help to calm - I find.

Andre Johnson who is also known as “Dre Island,” born May 2, 1988, emits a melodic and smooth sound that is like no other. He started out as a pro-ducer before he embarked on the journey of becoming a recording

artist. This allowed him to get a head start and helped him prepare for what he set out to ac-complish and in 2008, with much support from his family and friends, Dre launched his music career.

“It was self-motivation for me. But you know life and people on a whole have a lot of influences in what I sing about. So I would say life motivated me to pursue a career as a professional record-ing artiste.”

Having been exposed to the production side of the industry, he had the advantage of producing his own music. With no limitations or restrictions, Dre allowed himself to explore the wide scope of genres that helped to create his style of music. Being able to play the piano at a very tender age was what sparked his love for music. He got the courage to perform after he became a member of his church choir. Weddings and concerts were the two main events that helped him to capture the hearts of many.

“As long as it had something to do with perform-ing, I wanted to be a part of it.”In 2010, Dre performed single “If I Could Do It Again” alongside Dancehall artist Ding Dong at

the world renowned Reggae Sumfest and a solo performance at Shaggy and Friends Concert also in 2010.

With the talents he possesses, he is even more de-termined to make an impact on the industry with his unforgettable voice and flow. Let’s take a trip to Dre Island to discover more about one of the latest Reggae acts to hit the scene.

How did you get the name Dre Island?Well the name Dre came from my Babylon name, Andre and Island then came about in 2007 when I was producing a friend called Birdie. From then people called me Dre Island.

As early as you can remember, what sparked your love for music?My surrounding community sparked my love for music. Growing up in a community name Don-mair where everyone loved music and at a ten-der age my Dad sent me to piano lessons. So you know wherever you bend the root of the tree when it’s young that’s how it is going to grow. From then on music has been that main passion in my life.

Who are some of your musical inspirations (artists and producers)?Artists - Bob Marley, Dennis Brown, Alton Ellis, Ste-phen Marley, Damion Jr. Gong Marley, Buju Ban-ton and Sizzla. Producers - King Jammy, Sly And Robbie, Baby G and Jam 2.

A Trip to Dre Island By Jody-ann Williams


Who are some of the artists that you have worked with?I have worked with Kabaka Pyramid, Julian Mar-ley, Sanchez, Ishawna, Iyah Gift and Shaddie.

Who would you like to collaborate with?I love to collaborate with Chronixx, Romain Virgo, Protoje and Busy Signal.

Can you recall one of your most memorable stu-dio sessions?At King Jammy’s studio in Waterhouse one night, voicing NEVER BREAK YOUR HEART a song that is now out on the Dre Island, Now I Rise EP. Jam 2 just put in the riddim and press record without tell-ing me and I started to sing of the top of my head. Studio talk freestlye straight to the end and that same recording is the one you now hear on the EP. I never recorded that song over again.

What are some of the topics you address in your music?I address topics like Rastafari way, life in general, who King Selassie is, family, youth, future, people, war, peace, love and freedom.

How do you stay grounded in such a competitive industry?You know is really just to keep humble and never get caught up in the rush but instead I focus on life and I know that hard work is the key to success. So I make sure that first I have a team that have Dre

Island and the movement at their best interest. Al-ways rehearsing, keeping fit and the greater part of staying grounded is mostly about I and I begin a Rastafari naturally.

How important is family to you?Family is the most important part of my life. That is where even being who Dre Island is comes from, the family. As I said earlier, teamwork is where be-ing successful all start from and I’m glad you asked cause family building is the team that we choose for this year for Team Dre Island. Reality, the best feeling in the world after a hard day working is to get home to be around my family. So I believe everyone should be a part of a family. When you are not working, how do you unwind?Chill with my family, social networking, playing football, meditate. I also watch documentaries on Discovery Channel and National Geography Channel.

What would we be surprised to know about you?I have been to the 14 parishes of Jamaica more than 20 times.

What can we expect from Dre Island in 2013?2013 is all about putting out great music and spec-tacular performance for people who love and appreciate and continuing the Rastafari teach-ing. Music is who I am right now and the future.

“Never get caught up in the rush, but instead I focus on life and I know that hard work is the key to success.”

This wondrous gallery in historic Christiansted, St. Croix is home to the distinctive jewelry designs of local artist/metalsmith, Whealan Massicott – originally a native of Dominica.

Crafting for over 17 years on St. Croix, Whealan continues to be motivated by the complexity of the Caribbean’s people, beauty, and culture. Being a musician at heart allows life’s movements, patterns and rhythms to play out in his raw organic jewelry designs. Whealan’s richness of imagination, his creativity, and his material invention al-lows each piece to express diversity, emotion, and the natural beauty of life.

ib designs’ FEEL GOOD JEWELRY is a salute to the simplicity of life and to the inspiration of creativity.

FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO PLACE ORDER, CONTACT: ib designs PO Box 223305 Christiansted, VI 00822Tel: 340-773-4322 | Islandboydesigns.com | [email protected]

WE ARE LOVING. . .

ISLANDBOY DESIGNSHANDCRAFTED FEEL GOOD JEWELRY FROM THE BEAUTIFUL ISLE OF ST. CROIX!

NFINITY BRACELET

Available in Sterling Silver, 14K Gold, a combination of Sterling Silver and 14K Gold, or new Ozidized Sterling Silver.

LARGE FAN CORAL PENDANT

The 2 1/2” Sea Life pendant is available in Sterling Silver and Brass. Shown on our Circle of Life Neck-lace.

ST. CROIX EARRINGS

Available in Sterling Silver or 14K Gold

BLUE TEARDROP CHANEY PENDANT

14k Gold. Shown on our signature Ball & Link Neck-lace.

OUTSIDE OF THE BOX RINGS

Sterling Silver square rings. Fun, funky, and comfort-able!

STRENGTH EARRINGS

Available in Sterling Silver or 14k Gold.

VIRTUE BRACELET

Available in Sterling Silver, 14k Gold, or a combi-nation of Sterling Silver and 14k Gold.

JINGLE JANGLE RING

Available in Sterling Silver, Sterling Silver with one 14k Yel-low Gold ring in the center, Sterling Silver with three 14k Gold Filled rings, or 14k Gold.

MONEY CLIP WITH 14K GOLD ACCENT

Sterling Silver and 14K Gold

COPPER DRUM RING

Hand wrought and crafted with traditional cold joint methods. Sterling Silver and Copper.


THE PLACE TO STAY

S P A N I S H C O U R T H O T E L

9 2 6 . 0 0 0 01 St. Lucia Avenue, Kingston 5, Jamaica

www.spanishcourthotel.com

THE PLACE TO STAY

S P A N I S H C O U R T H O T E L

9 2 6 . 0 0 0 01 St. Lucia Avenue, Kingston 5, Jamaica

www.spanishcourthotel.com

Team Triple the Focus is of-ficially apart of the Pinter-est craze. The photo shar-ing website is flooded with fashion, cooking and dec-orating ideas that we are excited about. So much so that we have devoted a section in the magazine to show you what we are re-pinning. This month we would like to display our fashion faves. After you have sift through our re-pins, drop us a line and share some of your fa-vorites and give us your thoughts on ours. Be sure to check out our Pinterest page www.pinterest.com/triplethefocus.

LOOK WHAT WE ARE INTERESTED IN!


MILESTONES

February is a busy month. With events such as Reggae Month in Jamaica, Black History Month, Bob Marley Birthday cele-brations globally, NYC Fashion Week, Grammy Awards, The Oscars and of course Valentine’s Day, the shortest month of the year seems to be the most monumental with milestone events and celebrations.

Not so much on a grand scale is our own milestone - the second February issue that we are embarking on and we are celebrating in fine style with none other than Track and Field mega star, ASAFA POWELL, on the cover. Last year Ac-tor LEON held that position and we got quite a few emails from our readers who enjoyed his feature. No doubt the re-ception will be the same for Asafa as we delve into his life on and off the track. As an added bonus LEON took some time out of his busy filming and recording schedule to update us on what he’s been up to.

Of course this issue would not be complete without fashion, travel, lifestyle and entertainment in the form of our many features. While we focused heavily on Valentine’s Day last year, this year we thought we would stick with things that our readers face on a day to day basis such as, Money Matters, Vacation ideas, shopping etc.

Our Team is excited to bring and share the Triple The Focus international coverage by way of VICRAE INC.’s unique ros-ter of artists and productions. After THIRD WORLD’s successful 40th Anniversary launch at the Jamaica Jazz & Blues festival in Montego Bay, the group gears up for a year-long cele-bration. Additionally, Triple The Focus will make the journey with recently signed Senegalese artist, Meta and The Corner-stones, as he releases his sophomore album ANCIENT POWER this Spring. Finally we will be on hand for the festivities sur-rounding the 20th Anniversary of Disney blockbuster Cool Running’s kicks off at The Reel Fun Film Festival in Calgary with LEON and co-stars. We have got a jam packed year ahead so be sure to stay tuned! In the meantime, please continue to write and share your thoughts [email protected]. As always, we look forward to your continued support and feedback. Until next month “T-Focus and think Creative.”

CreativeDirector’s Note

Vic RaeYour Creative [email protected]

Triple the Focus February 2013 Issue

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Transcript of Triple the Focus February 2013 Issue