At his first job in publishing, Lee Hawkins covered utilities and technology at the Wisconsin State Journal—a gig, he attests, “no one wanted.” Turns out it was their loss: “The utilities industry was being deregulated and the technology sector was exploding,” remembers Hawkins, “so it became a really hot beat.” His expertise would eventually get him recruited by another WSJ: the Wall Street Journal. And later, a CNBC deal (and his good looks) put him on national TV. Now the director of a documentary and author of a book, both titled NEWBOs: The Rise of America’s New Black Overclass, Hawkins has the gigs everyone wants. Too late.

Why did you decide to get into journalism?
I had the blessing of being an observer of society and culture through the prism of the many worlds I operate in. I’ve interviewed everyone from the CEO of General Motors to big rappers with a hundred-pound pit bull next to them looking at me like I’m a piece of raw hamburger.

Where did the idea for the NEWBOs project come from?
I saw African-Americans building wealth as entrepreneurs in sports, media and entertainment. These people had launched incredible careers—a reality that existed under the radar. People like Sean Combs and Chris Lighty are in control of their own destiny. As a result, there’s opportunity, challenge and pressure to not only get into the game, but stay there.

Was your intention with this project to motivate instead of just educate people?
Despite the encouraging phenomenon of Barack Obama, the reality is black people are not breaking through in the private sector to enter the highest echelons, where the money and power of America are largely concentrated. I am educating people of these uncomfortable statistics, so in that way, I’ve always thought of myself as a de-motivational speaker.

Being a black man, did you feel any pressure to portray your subjects in a certain light?
No. There are people who felt I shouldn’t have asked Bryan “Birdman” Williams about the $500,000 worth of platinum and diamonds he has in his mouth, but it’s part of his appeal as the CEO of a record label called Cash Money. You have to stay true to the essence of your subjects.

Any words of wisdom?
No matter what field you’re in, craft your brand unapologetically. Have a brand that’s representative of who you are and the work you do, so that when people see your name they know what it represents. My brand has integrity, and the respect and the trust of my readers. If I can be the only African-American reporter covering a press conference at the Tokyo Motor Show, then I shouldn’t be afraid to go into the ‘hood to write about the murder of the Denver Broncos’ Darrent Williams.

Soulja Boy has officially joined the ranks of celebrity-related buffoonery; not that that’s out of character (see Exhibit A here), but with his recent self-promotion in self-indulgent spending, one can only wonder what goes on in the minds of unjustifiably successful artists when they purchase pendants worth a thousand words.

Yesterday, the prepubescent one five-hit wonder—you know you still have your fingers crossed—released a YouTube video, aptly titled “Rich Nigga Shit.” Apparently, this is the sixth installment of the web series, but we couldn’t bring ourselves to be schooled by a “Bird Walk”-ing teenager long enough to watch the others. Chalk it up to envy. The video debuts to a baffled audience—made up of you, me, and the rest of a struggling society amidst a severe economic downturn—his newly-acquired Black Diamond-Encrusted Remote Control Lamborghini Chain. Read it twice for full effect. It matches his actual black Lamborghini, so that when he’s not driving around in the luxury vehicle, and begins to freak out, wondering if he’ll ever amount to anything more than a scrawny kid with bad acne and a dream, he can look down at his chain, and realize…no, he won’t.

We can’t fault him for his behavior, however, because when elders speak, we’re to follow their lead, right? A few months ago, T-Pain released a photo showcasing his 10lb., 197kts big ass chain. And that’s not irony. If viewers found themselves having trouble identifying the monstrosity dangling from his neck, they could confidently fall back on their long-gone comprehension skills as a fifth-grade reader to help decipher. It simply reads, “Big Ass Chain,” a meaningful statement if there ever was one. It’s a good thing the Auto-Tune King didn’t use this fantastic marketing opportunity to “Save Darfur” or “Go Green,” because this makes way more sense. Plus, it’s trendy. And that’s what really matters.

Lastly, our favorite (that’s subjective) R&B singer Chris Brown made a few teeny-bopping TRL-er’s question why they forgave him in the first place (for the incident we shall not mention). At a Diddy party, nonetheless, he made the ill-timed decision to step out in public for the first time with a brand new, and severely insensitive, chain. The $300,000 diamond necklace, that reportedly took 218 days to make, declared “Oops!,” proving that the singer refused to wear his heart on his sleeve. Instead, it sat right beneath his chest and blinded oncoming traffic. In terms of making an apology, a shrug of the shoulders would have been just as effective. Meaning not at all.

This the future of music, people. That and buyer’s remorse.

A lady should never tell her age, but she can sure hint at it. Before this assignment, I thought Brad Pitt had made a leap into stardom from Thelma & Louise to Interview with the Vampire without so much as a blink (or film) in between. Also, upon seeing Tom Skerritt walk into a room, my mind first resorted to images of him as Sherriff Jimmy from “Picket Fences,” not Viper from Top Gun. Needless to say, I was a surprise pick, even to myself, to have attend a press junket on behalf of GIANT for the Blu-ray release of the film A River Runs Through It. However, for the sake of a free trip to Vermont, which I’d never made a pit stop in, much less driven through, and an opportunity to fly-fish, other uncharted territory for sure, I happily took my place as being the youngest journalist there.

The 1992 Oscar-winning drama, A River Runs Through It, retells the eloquent autobiographical memoir of author Norman Maclean, played by Craig Sheffer. With Brad Pitt starring as his brother Paul, the adaptation recounts the relationship between a reserved son and a rebellious one in early-1900s Montana, both straining against the expectations of their stern minister father (Tom Skerritt). Their shared pastime of fly-fishing served as both a tool of discipline – as the knowledge needed to cast a line and read the water is tedious - and a binding tie between the patriarch and his children.

Upon my arrival in Vermont, and despite the fact that I rep Northern New Jersey at every moment, even the most inopportune, I was immediately declared the ‘Manhattan gal’ by my peers. Was it the questionably hipster tattoo screaming from my shoulder? The incessant texting I engaged in on, yes, my second Crackberry? The disregard for a reasonable running shoe, considering the terrain, in exchange for a more fashionable raining-riding hybrid of a boot? Or was it the gold-plated pendant of a bird I wore, like a poorman’s Ghostface Killah, while coincidentally participating in falconry? I say, all of the above.

Now, I wasn’t necessarily Sex and the City‘s Carrie when she endured a trip to boyfriend Aidan’s cabin in Suffern, New York - after all, squirrels scared her – but it was a first to have my wine-in-hand stand interrupted for a fishing gear fitting.

The next day, donned in waterproof overalls and waders, I forged the river like a character in the Oregon Trail, and gave my best impression of a seasoned fly-fisher. Replaying the instructions I was given the day before over and over in my head – “10 and 2. A flick of the wrist. Accelerate – then stop!” – I cast the line over my shoulder and had all intentions of bringing it back, but sensed some resistance. That day, I caught no fish, but I hooked the branches of the tree behind me with skill and precision, not once, not twice, but three times. A number worthy of an award, in my opinion.

The film, directed by Robert Redford, won the Academy Award for Best Cinematography, and after taking a look, it’s clear as to why. The Blu-ray treatment makes majestic mountains more than just a lyric from “America the Beautiful”; they’re a dichotomic mass that has every right to be taken for granted for being plethoric, but instead serves as a much-appreciated backdrop. The picturesque scenes, now remastered, are clean and crisp; their soothing sounds comparable to that of an Enya track. And they’re called upon, never boring, as they break up the redundancy of overracting from a youthful Brad Pitt, always with a saccharine half-smile, and an ensemble cast of characters that all seem jaded, but fail to fully explain to the audience as to why.

Released today, July 28, the Blu-ray disc contains deleted scenes, feaurettes and commentary, and an exclusive 32-page scrapbook with never-before-seen production photos. (Also, the packaging was made with 20-percent less plastic, so do your part for the enviroment.) A steady-paced scenic film with promise may not be for all movie buffs, but if it can get a “Manhattan gal” away from her seat and out of her element, it’s worth the watch. Brad Pitt never showed up, but I’m still looking to perfect my cast.

Recently, urban artistry and apparel have extended their creativity to unlikely outlets in the effort to “go green.” So for those—the tech-savvy and trendsetting—that are having trouble succumbing to the requests of our peers and politicians to be “eco-friendly,” there are folks that are assisting in making it fairly easy. The result? Revamping the simplest, and least threatening, mode of transportation: your bike. The kind without a motor, of course.

Lance Armstrong did so. And for good reason. Le Tour de France, the 23-day, over-2,000 mile annual bike race, is heading into its final week, and Armstrong’s eponymous foundation, along with Nike, and Trek have teamed up to recruit some of the most influential artists of our generation to contribute. Each was asked to produce a bike dedicated to the fight against cancer and unique to their own style. The bikes would then be ridden by Lance himself throughout the race. KAWS, Kenny Scharf, Shepard Fairey, Marc Newson, Yoshitomo Nara, and Damien Hirst all delivered, most of them prominently using Livestrong’s signature yellow hue.

Though these bikes are set to be auctioned later this year, and unfathomable prices are likely, others can revive their ride courtesy of a Crooks & Castles collabo. The streetwear line recently dropped preview images of a two-wheeler created after joining forces with SE Bikes. No release date has been set, but with a quilted leather saddle and a dramatic black and white color scheme, the final product looks promising.

A limited-edition saddle made by renown maker Brooks is also making its rounds. Produced in partnership with New York graffiti artist Futura, the seat features a reproduction of his “For Love or Money” print, previously seen on Nike’s Dunk Hi model. This byproduct, complete with a collage of currency, represents both going green…and getting the green.

Last to jump on the bike bandwagon is Izaxon, maker of the iPhone application “BrakeLights.” Doing just what the title says it will, it allows you to turn your phone, rather literally, into brake lights for your two-wheeler. With the help of an accelerometer, it has an ability to detect when you brake which results in the flashing of a red light on your screen. A $1 application may not be worth the demolishment of your insurance-less phone worth hundreds, but if willing to strap the gadget to the back of a moving vehicle in the name of nature (and its preservation), so be it.

-Danielle Cheesman

On Monday, Chris Brown issued the long-awaited, yet completely anti-climactic, apology to ex-girlfriend Rihanna. The two-minute video did nothing if not prove that a mock neck looks good on no one but a man of God (Coincidence? I think not!) and that the boy can read from a cue-card like no other singer-turned-actor. In lieu of his botched attempt at exuding sincerity and regret, GIANT gives you the guide to Celebrities and the Art of the Public Apology.

Rule No. 1: Sing a Song
Like Akon. In April 2007, during a performance in Trinidad, Akon told the audience that he was going to have a dance off, and the winning young woman would receive a trip to Africa. The problem? “Africa” is the pet name for his junk, and the recipient of all the simulated sex (see: dry-humping) was a 14-year-old.

So, he did what any self-respecting singer would do. He released a song entitled “Blame It On Me,” but instead, pointed the finger at everyone else.

“Just a little young girl trying to have fun / Her daddy should never let her out that young / I’m sorry for Club Zen getting shut down / I hope they manage better next time around / How was I to know she was underage / In a 21 and older club they say”

Rule No. 2: Recruit Back-Up
In November 2006, during a performance at the Laugh Factory in West Hollywood, comedian Michael Richards (better known as Kramer from Seinfeld) addressed a pair of hecklers by stopping his act, alienating them in front of the audience, and subsequently calling them “niggers” repeatedly, amidst some references to lynching.

He then appeared on the Late Show with David Letterman, with Jerry Seinfeld acting as a buffer (and serving up some grade-A playground support: “Don’t laugh! It’s not funny!”) and delivered an apology full of awkward silences. Or was that comedic timing?

2a. In this case: Ironically use a questionably racist term while apologizing for unquestionably racist behavior. “Afro-Americans?”

Rule No. 3: Always Call Al Sharpton
Michael Richards did! Well, actually, an apology was demanded out of him, but still, not even Mexican Presidents are immune from confronting Al Sharpton. He’s like the People’s Choice, but involuntarily. In April 2007, while discussing the NCAA Women’s Basketball Championship, radio personality Don Imus referred to the Rutgers University team as “some nappy-headed ho’s.” He then appeared on Al Sharpton’s syndicated radio talk show to express his regret, to which the host asked that he be fired. Less then two weeks later, Imus’ show was cancelled. Bad news initially, yes, but when it comes to Sharpton, it can be expected that in the forthcoming months, he will use every media outlet necessary to broadcast his take on the subject at hand. So much so that the real culprit fades into the background.

3a. If Sharpton’s outta town, there’s always Jesse Jackson.

Rule No. 4: Throw Your Friends Under the Bus
Take note of celebrity pseudo-friendships. When Justin Timberlake and Janet Jackson performed together during the Super Bowl XXXVIII halftime show in February 2004, he tore open her top, exposing her right breast (and her affinity for odd nipple jewelry). Though the two claimed it to be a “wardrobe malfunction,” no one could ignore the fact that it was done while Timberlake sang the lyric, “Gonna have you naked by the end of this song.” As a result, CBS would only allow Jackson and Timberlake to appear during the 46th Grammy Awards ceremony if they each made a public apology to the network. Though Jackson refused, Timberlake obliged and went on to win two awards that night. Jackson stayed home and her boyfriend Jermaine Dupri resigned from his position on the Grammy Awards committee.

When Jennifer Lopez caught flack for her not-so-tasteful language in the 2001 remix of “I’m Real,” in which she sang: “People be screamin’ ‘What’s the deal with you and so-and-so?’ / I tell them niggas mind their biz but they don’t hear me, though,” she deflected the attention (and blame) off of her and onto rapper Ja Rule, claiming he had written all the lyrics.

Rule No. 5: Diagnose Yourself
In 2001, Mariah Carey invaded MTV’s TRL, pushing an ice cream cart, wearing high heels and a pajama shirt, and looking all sorts of cracky. Immediately after, the press was all over her, questioning the odd behavior. What did she claim to be the reason? Exhaustion. The same excuse Lindsay Lohan used after being admitted to the hospital while filming Georgia Rule - a movie set she often failed to arrive to on time (or at all). And it served as the same creative response Amy Winehouse’s PR people gave us when canceling her performances mid-tour, but only after the surfacing of a few of her slurred-singing videos, a severe weight loss, and a sudden collapse. That’s right, folks. As a last resort, cite severe, crippling (convenient) exhaustion for all your immoral, inexcusable actions.

- Danielle Cheesman

Inspired by the recent release of Woodstock: 3 Days of Peace and Music Director’s Cut and Collector’s Edition DVD, GIANT presents one of the most honored headliners of the world’s most famous concert: Jimi Hendrix. The 40th-anniversary 3-disc set features never-before-seen performances from the famed 1969 music festival, but leave it to one of the greatest guitarists in history to steal the show on its final day.

Though a solo improvisation, Hendrix’s rendition of the ”Star-Spangled Banner” is now regarded as a special symbol of the 1960s era and peace movement.

The singer/songwriter reached the peak of his success during this decade. His incomparable approach to instrumentation, as he favored the undesirable sounds of feedback and was one of the first artists to experiment with stereophonic and phasing effects for rock recording, coupled with his unique sense of style (think scarves, brooches, and waistcoats) made him a star. His ability to both tune, teeth, and flip a right-handed guitar upside-down while playing made him a subject of fascination. But, the tragic reality of both his drug use and untimely death at 27 made him a legend.

He’s been awarded and honored, even posthumously, receiving inductions into the US and UK Halls of Fame, a Hollywood Star, and the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, and an eponymous foundation survives him.

Consequence has just released the video for his single “Mr. Popularity.” The track features the longtime Tribe Called Quest collaborator, and current G.O.O.D. Music labelmate, spitting entire verses around the word “pop.” The video is comprised of his personal footage, shot over the years, and plays out like a who’s-who of the hip-hop industry (save a few video girls). Expect countless cameos of everyone from D.M.C. and Quincy Jones, to Pharrell and DJ Khaled. And give props to Brooklyn producer Statik Skeletah for effortlessly seaming samples together for the hook; if you’re keeping count, that’s Jay-Z‘s verse from Young Jeezy‘s “Go Crazy” remix, Lil’ Wayne‘s first verse from “Stuntin’ Like My Daddy,” T.I.‘s last line from “Big Things Poppin’,” and Eric B. & Rakim‘s “My Melody.”

Watch the video here:

If the bright light that came along with using naked photos as a PR stunt has already faded, then look no further than Twitter to reignite it. Yes, I’m talking to you, Yung Joc, who took to the micro-blogging site on Sunday to tell a twisted tale of a rabid dog, a trip to the hospital, and a coke-fueled fight between Katt Williams and DMX.

But he was just kidding! After all, he’s too busy suing Diddy, Bad Boy Records, and Block Entertainment (for failure to fulfill contractual obligations) to bother with promoting anything else (here and here).

But now, Russell Simmons has followed suit. Today, the Def Jam co-founder tweeted that he is planning on suing the company he helped build. No word as to why yet, but he did engage in a bit of name-calling (“bullies”).

However, everybody has to answer to somebody and Russell’s lawyers must have demanded he retract the impulsive statement, because the tweet has already been deleted.

Broadcasting potential legal affairs in 140 characters or less? Now, that’s hip-hop.

Dismissing what we were all taught in our eighth-grade health classes, MTV is doing away with the age-old mantra of “Just Say No” to sex, and is instead promoting the campaign launch of something quite similar to what Meg Ryan so eloquently expressed in that famed When Harry Met Sally diner scene: say “Yes, Yes, Yes!” To any and all sex. As long as it’s safe.

Yesterday, at the Apartment, Solange Knowles was announced as ambassador to the campaign. In addition to the free Durex condoms up for grabs, the attendees were granted the chance to hear her speak on the subject at hand: sex. In an attempt to “collectively make it less uncomfortable to talk about,” the 22-year-old singer and mother admitted to “anticipating the day” she’d have to have the awkward conversation with her own son. Referencing her own childhood, Knowles said, “My parents gave me, what I like to call, the ‘Real Deal Holyfield’….Growing up, there are two sets of campaigns: that abstinence is the best policy, and others tell you to use a condom.”

Citing the election of Barack Obama into office as inspiration, Knowles explained that she and friends (notably Jurnee Smollett) recently held a powwow inside a living room: “We wanted to do something that made us feel the importance of serving,” she said. And so, Knowles decided to use her fame as a means to delivering a message. “Artistry is true expression, but you can’t expect all of us to be role models. Even if we’re shoved into the limelight, we make mistakes….[But] this generation is coming back around [in terms of using] music as a platform to reach out on issues. The past 10 years have had a bad rap, but we’re coming back around.”

The Body Shop, in partnership with MTV Networks, is challenging the under-25s of the U.S. and internationally to take a stance and make a promise (or three) via their newly-live website. Each visitor is asked to take pledges that will seal their avowal in protecting themselves from HIV/AIDS (of which over 33 million people worldwide are living with now, and over 3,000 new infections are found daily in adults aged 15 to 24). First, to talk openly and honestly about sex; second, to get clued in about risks and preventative measures; and lastly, to personally practice safe sex.

But if you don’t feel comfortable making promises to the same network that thrives off catching Real World castmates hook-up under the sheets, you can do your part by buying the newly-available promotional product, Tantalizing Lip Butter. Priced at $8, more than half of every purchase will benefit the Staying Alive Foundation.

Yes, Oui, Si, Da…That’s the affirmative in four languages. Now, what’s your excuse?

- Danielle Cheesman

For his I Am Music tour, Lil’ Wayne made a stop at the Gibson Amphitheatre in California this past weekend. Though the Gym Class Heroes, Gorilla Zoe, and T-Pain are all listed on the bill as well, it was Keri Hilson, fresh off a cycle of debut album release parties, who stole the show. During a performance of the duo’s hit single, “Turnin’ Me On,” the two engaged in some PDA more appropriate for a bedroom. A mere 10 seconds into it, the two dip it low while dancing, and once the song ends (at the 2:40 mark), Hilson takes a breather to announce a personal confession: that the MC is doing to her just what the song title claims. Quoting a line from the track, she applauds Wayne for knowing how to “recognize a real woman.” She then turns around, clad in yellow tights, and gives the audience a good look at her backside. Afterwards, she stands behind the rapper, reaching over his shoulder and lifting up his shirt, to proclaim to the audience: “Ain’t a damn thing lil’ about this Wayne.” Booty tap’s and affectionate name-calling ensue.

-Danielle Cheesman

Peep the video:

Source.

You can’t knock Nick Cannon by calling him Mr. Carey (he hears you; he likes it) or by poking fun at his pre-pubescent looks (peep the video below, he’s well aware). Never one to take the “no comment” approach—his blog boldly features snapshot images of MediaTakeOut rumors he goes on to disprove, and exposes private apology e-mails from those who publicly diss him—Cannon is making it pretty hard for industry folks and audiences alike to get enough ammo on him to fire an insult. If anything, we’ve got to respect the hustle.

Making history as the youngest writer ever for the Nickelodeon network, and as the first African-American actor to be honored at the Cannes Film Festival with the “Breakthrough Actor of the Year” Award for Bobby, Cannon is now well underway to becoming one successful (self-described) “entrepre-tainer.”

Cannon and Nickelodeon have negotiated a two-year deal (beginning immediately) that will set the 28-year-old behind and in front of the camera. As Honorary Chairman, he’ll serve as creator, star, producerand director of original programming for its TEENick network (formerly The N as of later this year). First things first: he’ll host and executive produce the hour-long special “Halo Awards,” where he and his celebrity friends will travel around the country to surprise and celebrate ordinary teens who are doing extraordinary things for their community.

-Danielle Cheesman

With WALL-E‘s Oscar win for Best Animated Feature in the bag, a big-screen Hannah Montana production (featuring the questionably lovable Miley Cyrus) on the brink of a release, and a third film in the works for the fan-favorite Toy Story, it’s clear that Disney is determined to ride out this economic downturn without interference.

At the company’s annual shareholders meeting held earlier this month, the attendees responded with so much acclaim to the viewing of an unfinished scene from the 2D-animated musical The Princess and the Frog, that Disney decided to move up it’s release date by two weeks to December 11, with exclusive openings November 25 in New York and Los Angeles.

The film has already garnered much attention as it stars the first black princess in Disney history. And that’s no mistake. Dreamgirls star Anika Noni Rose, who voices Princess Tiana, told Access Hollywood last month at the unveiling of the characters doll: “We made sure that she has a nice curl in her hair. She’s a little browner than I am; that’s because my natural skin color could be misconstrued as anything, and they wanted to make sure that she really looked like a brown girl. She’s got a nice little round nose and she’s got full lips.”

But there may not be a happy ending to this fairytale. The storyline sparked backlash when the films initial announcement of production was made. Originally called The Frog Princess, Tiana-who was first named Maddy, but had her moniker changed because of its supposed similarities to a stereotypical slave name-was to be a chambermaid working for a wealthy white debutante in 1920s New Orleans.

Now, the film has incited controversy again as recently-released photos from Disney show the heroic prince, amongst an almost all-black cartoon cast, as anything but. The skin of Prince Naveen of Maldonia, who is voiced by a Brazilian actor, is significantly lighter than that of his one true love. While some say the relationship is a reflection of America as a melting-pot, critics believe it to be reinforcing prejudice.

As we all know, Wheaties is the Breakfast of Champions. But it’s highly unlikely that the brains behind the brand would agree to put a white rapper with an affinity for the kush on its box. After all, we saw what happened to a certain U.S. Olympian. Thus, Asher Roth settled for the “Brand for Champions,” otherwise known as UNDRCRWN.

The clothing line, founded in 2005 and most notably recognized for its implemented imagery of basketball culture, succumbed to the same haze (no pun intended) that Roth and his hypnotizing single put us all under. Yes, you do love college. And now you can proclaim so on your tee, sweater or, more suitably, letterman jacket.

In support of the SRC recording artist’s first single, “I Love College,” UNDRCRWN created and released a Varsity Sport-influenced line, The College Collection. You saw Asher Roth rock the basic tee in his “I Love College” video – underneath the ubiquitous gray hoodie, behind the red Solo cup, next to the half-naked girl. You may have also peeped in him in their Spring 2009 look book, in true unsophisticated undergrad fashion, with a foam finger up his nose.

The Spring 2009 collection challenged all the dully-dressed disciples with a line full of crewnecks, zip-ups, and tees that highlighted bold stripes and textures, bright colors, and distinct graphics.

Set to be released this summer is UNDRCRWN’s inaugural Encore collection. Going back to its roots of paying homage to sport heritage, the line aims to pit old against new, and will include the re-released classic “Dynasty”, “UNDRCRWN Theory” and “Play Ball” tees.

Peep all the lines, each equally worthy of being worn by a champion, or at least a collegiate, here. - Danielle Cheesman

Wall Street Journal reporter/CNBC correspondent Lee Hawkins has spent the past three years interviewing droves of black entrepreneurs in the sports, entertainment, and media industries. His subjects include Sean “Diddy” Combs, LeBron James, Chris Lighty (manager to 50 Cent, Missy Elliott and Busta Rhymes), Lil’ Wayne, Nelly, and Bob Johnson.

Interested in covering the Rise of America’s New Black Overclass (or “NEWBO” in his own terms), Hawkins was in search of discovering what it takes for African-Americans to maximize their opportunities. GIANT got the chance to speak with Hawkins about his study and upcoming television special (watch the preview below).

GIANT: You’ve spent the last three years researching for this project? What made you want to get involved?

Lee Hawkins: I’m a reporter for the Wall Street Journal and I cover business. I look at the hip-hop industry as a business and I look at the sports world as a business, and I had a hunch that African-American athletes-in a society where there’s so much emphasis on the negative statistics surrounding black men in America-were something that had not been studied. I had a curiosity about how much they were earning and what the impact of wealth was on their life. I did some research and found out that in 2007 the salaries of all black athletes in the NBA, NFL, and MLB totaled nearly $4 billion. I was interested because I grew up in the hip-hop culture. The young people see the business side of hip-hop a lot more clearly than America does. If you’re part of the hip-hop culture, you’re looking at these individuals as entrepreneurs and not just caricatures. There’s a reason that Sean Combs is worth more than 300 million dollars, and it’s because, whether society accepts it or not, he’s a very legitimate, gifted business man. This is our generation, these are our stories, and I felt it was important to chronicle this black history.

GIANT: Can you explain “NEWBO?”

LH: I coined the term. You don’t have to be a multimillionaire to be a NEWBO, but you do have to think-not like an employee, but like an owner-and look at the sports media and entertainment industry as areas where you can grow. I’ve adopted some of that in my own career. I started out as a newspaper reporter but I’ve added television, books, and the lecture circuit. There are many opportunities for African-Americans to diversify. Not just celebrities, but entrepreneurs and people that work behind-the-scenes. The original BlackPlanet.com was formed by NEWBOs and any business that’s looking to the youth culture and black culture as a core audience and is using entertainment, sports, or media as a platform, are using NEWBO concepts. We have stylists, publicists, people that are representing athletes and hip-hop moguls, branding experts like Chris Lighty and Steve Stoute. And there are women coming up, too: Marvet Britto is a publicist out there, Melody Hopson, and I have quite a few sisters in my book.

GIANT: The book contains statistical data about black uber-wealth. What’s the most outrageous one you’ve discovered so far?

LH: I think the $4 billion number was probably the most significant because that doesn’t include corporate endorsements; that’s just salary. Also, the average salary for a black NBA player is more than 4 million dollars. I think the other statistic that shocked me was Lil’ Wayne and Cash Money Records sold a million CD’s in one week. No executive, and that includes Tommy Mottola and Clive Davis, is doing that in this environment. While it’s easy to just dismiss the Williams brothers because they don’t look like Fortune 500 CEO’s, you can’t discount the entrepreneurial acumen of these guys. You can’t.

GIANT: Do you think these people have always had the entrepreneurial spirit or that it was something that came with wealth?

LH: Entrepreneurship has always been part of the black experience in America because we have traditionally been disenfranchised and not accepted in the professional class or corporate world. You see the “last hired, first fired” method, especially in difficult economic times. Economic times and the unemployment rate have always been difficult for black America, not just in times of an American crisis, but we’ve struggled, in general. Entrepreneurship from the era of segregation to now has always been part of our community. The idea of working more than one job has been something that’s been part of our community, so it doesn’t surprise me that someone like Sean “Diddy” Combs or Jay-Z or any number of these athletes would diversify beyond just basketball or beyond just music, because it’s part of our culture.

GIANT: You’ve stated that there are sociological implications that newfound wealth can have on young African-Americans who are acquiring it quickly. What are they?

LH: I’ll start with the negative ones. When people come into this kind of wealth, and I’ll use Torii Hunter as an example, there are a lot of responsibilities that are thrust upon them. If their family is still struggling financially, they become the income generator for everyone. In Torii’s case, the electricity in his mother’s house was cut off at the time he received his first minor league contract, so the first thing he did was turn the lights back on. He purchased a home for his mother and condos for each of his bothers. Things like car notes don’t exist anymore because he takes care of those things. But these young people can find themselves in a position where it’s not always practical to do that, especially if you consider today’s economy. If you purchase a home for your mother and yourself and a few cars in this economy, what happens if you get traded? And now you have to move? You have to figure out how you’re going to sell. And undoubtedly, you’re going to sell it at a vast discount. Financial planning and tax planning are part of wealth building and if you’re the first generation or individual holding this kind of wealth, it’s a challenge. It’s not just for black people, it’s going to be a challenge for any 21-year-old to come into a $10 million signing bonus. And what happens is, when you haven’t had some of these luxuries-if you haven’t had a car in your life-the first opportunity that you get, you’re going to buy the best car you can get, even though the depreciation is going to be immense the minute you drive it off the lot. Rims, windows, TVs, and DVD players in the car are all just a function of never having some of these amenities. There’s an enjoyment stage that people go through and it’s not until they got out of that enjoyment stage that they can really start to build the wealth that they hope to leave behind to their children.

The positive is that when you go through struggle, there are two ways you can deal with it. It can stop you or it can motivate you. Most of these people don’t like to lose. These are people who are incredibly motivated, that will work 100-hour weeks, and are, almost to a fault, some of the hardest-working people you’ll ever meet. It’s not just talent. Talent isn’t enough. You have to be willing to put in the time, you have to be smart, you have to be connected, and then when you get there, you have to maintain it. And that’s a lot of pressure, to stay on top.

-DANIELLE CHEESMAN

“Newbos: The Rise of America’s New Black Overclass” will air on Thursday, February 26 at 9pm on CNBC. A book, of the same name, will be released later this year. For now, go to blackoverclass.cnbc.com

When I see the Pussycat Dolls, I don’t think to myself: “Hallelujah.” (I credit this to not being a man.) While their garter get-ups and bend-y ballet-like acrobatics just make me cringe with discomfort (see: jealousy), they do tend to make the opposite sex do stupid things — like drool and salute and, ironically, leave certain employed wordsmiths, meaning those paid to use language, speechless.

Or… they make lyricists, like A.R. Rahman, sign-off on the butchering (“remixing” in musical terms) of an Academy Award-winning track. Two days ago, the Indian film composer, record producer and musician won Best Original Song for ”Jai Ho” – the end credits crescendo of eight-time Oscar-winning film Slumdog Millionaire. And now, he’s going to be known as the guy who let the ‘Cats commercialize, I mean re-record in English, a perfectly fine as-is tune. With all the heavy breathing and sexy-time lyrics (“I’ll make you hot / get what you got / make you wanna say ’Jai Ho’”), it kind of depreciates the value of a ”victory” (or “hallelujah”) - as the title is translated to mean. Those things are few and far between, people. But whatever, sell, sell, sell. Let’s just look at them for now.

Now that that’s over, let’s take note that the track is promoted as being performed by “A.R. Rahman and the Pussycat Dolls featuring Nicole Scherzinger.” When did she become an entirely separate entity? I wonder how Tawny and Tabby and the rest of the kaboodle feel about this.

Hear the ladies version here.

- Danielle Cheesman

Brandt Peters hasn’t brought his work to New York in a minute, but that doesn’t mean he’s not on our radar. His first solo show on the West Coast, “Cackle Factory,” is set to open next week in Los Angeles at Gallery 1988. Most often using oil paint on wood, Peters’ subjects tend to be deviant little cartoons with expressive eyes. They are beautiful, but odd, and often seem to have their innocence challenged while their alter-egos are glorified.

The same day as the opening, Peters will be launching an all new one-stop-shop website that will feature his upcoming plans and projects for 2009. We’ll have to be patient though, as the byproduct of his MINDstyle collabo has yet to drop—the two paired up to create a Serv-O-matic mini figure line—and his latest Peacemaker vinyl character will only debut at New York’s Comic Con. He’s also promised to bring his “Slap Happy” series into animation. For now, the “Cackle Factory” will have to do. Peters claims that the exhibition title is actually a 1940’s slang term for an asylum, so we can expect that the menagerie of characters to be presented this time around are certifiably insane.

-Danielle Cheesman

13th Witness, aka Timothy McGurr, captures what captures him. As the man behind the camera, McGurr scored an ultra-exclusive photo shoot with Jay-Z, DJ Neil Armstrong, and The Roc Boys at the rehearsal for their performances surrounding Barack Obama’s presidential inauguration. With an eye for angles, 13th Witness tends to seize the silent-but-strong moments, and these behind-the-scenes photos are proof; place a brand logo on any image and you’ve got Jay’s next Rocawear ad. On the brink of a potentially nerve-racking performance—his wife broke down to tears—Jay looks every bit the calm and collected in these black-and-whites—as expected.

See more work by 13th Witness here.

-Danielle Cheesman

If Star and OK! Magazine haven’t fulfilled your appetite for the rich and skinny, than these jeans surely will. After creating (the Fergie favorite) Seven for All Mankind—one of the most popular designer denim brands today—Michael Glasser went on hiatus, only to return to the industry shortly thereafter with a desire to shake up the tried-and-true sea of blue. Pairing up with Joie Rucker, former VP of Design for Guess and Levi’s, the two launched their first collection, comprised of 13 different skinny-cut styles in 15 bold colors.

The truth behind the brand name is as simple as it sounds. A longstanding brainstorming session led to a short Q&A. How does someone want to feel when they pull on their favorite jeans? Well, what we don’t want is to have to squeeze and squat to get them to fit. Thus, the memorable moniker was born. Staying true to its name, the jeans provide you with the kind of luxury only the rich and skinny get to experience. Each pair features silk-lined pockets and waistlines, and the hardware is inspired by old Cartier collections.

The website is as embarrassingly entertaining as flipping through a Hello. Full of fictional characters, including a boozing housewife, spoiled heiress, and French-speaking bulldog, each stars in their own confessional webisode and keeps a running blog. In the showroom, moving mannequins model each denim style (including Bellissima, Sleek, Fine, and High) with Tyra-taught poses and pivots. And don’t worry about living the lifestyle; with the jeans priced at less than $200 and GIANT favorites Rihanna and Beyonce already (unofficially) endorsing the brand, it’s been proven that you don’t have to be rich or skinny to rock Rich & Skinny.

-Danielle Cheesman

My points of reference for the fisheye lens effect are as follows: any Busta Rhymes and/or Missy Elliott video, circa the 1990s, and the Stanley Kubrick film ”Clockwork Orange.” I thought the usage of this was a passing trend, really. A gimmick in amateur photo/filmography. But soon, thousands of distorted images will be seen on ceaseless display here in New York, so something’s gotta give, right?

The current Lomography showcase at the MoMA Store should be enough to fulfill those interested in the “don’t think, just shoot” philosophy. After all, they’re selling exclusives like the Diana F+ camera reproduction; similar to the 1960′s model, with capabilites including multi- and pinhole shots, panoramas, and colored-gel filters. However, in the theory behind hipster photography, there can never be too many photos morphed by blur and over-saturation so, on Saturday, January 24, the Lomographic Society (yes, that’s real) will be meeting at the MoMA Design in SoHo to begin the tour of three Lomography exhibitions going on at the MoMA Stores other locations. They’re allowing participants to borrow loaner cameras and shoot to their content along the way.

On January 27, the Lomography Gallery store will officially open in Greenwich Village and will serve as the home of the largest LomoWall in North America. It will be comprised of 35,000 hand-picked and hand-mounted photographs collected through an online submission call to Lomo-lovers around the world asked to show New York through their eyes and lenses. It will be a destination point for weekly workshops, teaching techniques, guest speakers, parties, and of course, exhibitions. On the retail front, expect a wide range of analog photography products, and limited edition cameras that will allow even the most novice of photo-takers to create increasingly charming imagery. After all, with such small size, simple controls, and the ability to turn low-lit settings into intentional environments, a Lomo has the potential to be carried (and used) any day, anywhere.

There is a trademark to every image shot with a Lomo camera. There’s an optimism that comes with catching the uniqueness of a moment, a “happy accident,” and a candid approach to everyday life. That kind of attitude should never be a passing trend.

Tour: January 24. 11am-1pm. Soho MoMA Design Store. 81 Spring Street.

Opening: January 27. 41 W. 8th Street.

Check out the public photo lab here.

- Danielle Cheesman

We’ve been in Obama overdose mode, charmed by his swag, speech, and supremacy. But now that the man is officially in office (pinch me), it’s time to take a look at some of his team—the specially selected few that will spearhead his efforts for the next four (but hopefully eight) years.

Valerie Jarrett: Transition Team Co-Chair, White House Senior Advisor and Assistant to the President for Intergovernmental Relations and Public Liaison.

One of Mr. Obama’s many mentors, she has been the most longstanding, as the two met years ago, when as a corporate attorney (the Chief of Staff in the Daley Administration), Jarrett hired a certain Ivy-Leaguer—our First Lady Michelle. She’s been coaching the couple ever since. Plus, the Stanford and University of Michigan Law School grad has got maverick in her blood; her great-grandfather was the first African-American to graduate from M.I.T., her grandfather the first black man to head the Chicago Housing Authority, and her father the first black resident at St. Luke’s Hospital. Who wouldn’t want that kind of brainpower on their team?

Susan Rice: Ambassador to the United Nations, Transition Team Co-Leader.

Even with loyalties to the Clinton’s—she served eight years at the White House and the State Department during Bill’s administration—Rice signed on with Mr. Obama at a time when Senator Hillary Rodham was thought to be the frontrunner for the Democratic nomination. For more than two years now, she has ran with Obama as senior foreign policy adviser to his campaign. She received her Masters and a Doctorate degree from Oxford, and has expertise in handling problems posed by global poverty and security threats, so her input is essential. No one likes a traitor, but for her, I’ll make an exception.

Cassandra Butts: Deputy White House counsel, with a focus on domestic policy and ethics.

She and Barack go way back. They met on the financial aid line at Harvard Law School, and she’s still holding his constitutional law book as collateral for a Miles Davis/John Coltrane album he has yet to return to her. She did litigation and policy work for the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund and has 17 years’ experience in politics and policy, with expertise in civil rights issues, domestic policy, health care and education. When you’re big-time, longtime friends are needed to help keep you grounded, so she’s definitely in.

Lisa Jackson: Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency

The Tulane University School of Chemical Engineering grad also earned a master’s in the same subject at Princeton University. As commissioner to New Jersey’s Department of Environmental Protection, she cracked down on polluters, ended the publicized bear hunt, and announced a plan to significantly reduce carbon emissions over the next decade. She, too, was an avid Clinton supporter, even once donating to her campaign, but just last year did she begin to support Obama. Once named Jon Corzine’s chief of staff, Jackson became the first woman and first African-American to hold the title. We’re all going “green” anyway, she might as well teach us how.

Melody Barnes: Director of the Domestic Policy Council at the White House

For almost eight years, Barnes served as chief counsel to Senator Edward M. Kennedy on the Senate Judiciary Committee, where she worked on civil rights, women’s health, religious liberties and judicial appointments. She was also senior domestic policy adviser during Obama’s campaign, but in 2002 her name came up in a dispute when it was suggested that Senate Democrats might have tried to influence the outcome of a high-profile affirmative action case by delaying the judge’s confirmation. The charge was later rejected. Also, Barnes was featured last year in a local magazine article on 10 well-dressed Washington women. Coming out unscathed, while still looking good? Sign her up.

You know how it goes – they say behind every great man…

-Danielle Cheesman

And so it begins.

Bush is a hater. On Tuesday, he declared Barack Obama’s inauguration an emergency. Like the kind that has its danger level determined by a color scale. Granted, the number of guests expected at the 44th President’s swearing-in ceremony is unrivaled, but the government has already set aside $15 million to help Washington, D.C. pay for security, as well as medical personnel (that’s for all the optimistic assertions being made about people suffering heart attacks, getting trampled on, self-inflicting pain while stuck in outlandish traffic, etc.). A president’s power to declare a state of emergency is typically used after hurricanes and floods (and would have really been considered timely had this been 2005), but never before, said his spokesperson Scott Stanzel, has an advance emergency declaration been used for a “non-disaster.” There’s really no better way to go out than to rain on someone’s parade, huh, Bush? Then again, maybe being compared to an irrepressible force isn’t so bad. Go hard or go home.

It’s a New Day.

The Vers 1.5R feels as light as it looks. This is coming from someone who lugged it home by foot, train, then bus, but just as well, felt the irrepressible urge to destroy the cumbersome packaging once there. (If it wasn’t for the return-after-review policy, I would have.) The terribly conspicuous box (it’s lime green) doesn’t swing corners well, and I very distinctly caused a subway scene at the turnstile trying to time my Metro-card swipe and “Go” advance with the passing-through of me and my new fixture. Nevertheless, it is light in weight and once in safekeeping, can easily be transported from nightstand to bookshelf and so forth.

Unfortunately, I first listened to the Vers 1.5R while it sat on carpeted ground and played Kanye West’s 808′s & Heartbreak (which, now, officially sounds strange everywhere), and I was far from impressed. Raising it to a more appropriate level – my kitchen counter – and switching the track to something less robotic, I finally experienced what the Vers boasts about.

Claiming that no music sounds better than when coming from a wooden instrument, the Vers 1.5R cabinet is harvested from sustainable-managed plantation sources, and promises that for every tree used, new ones are planted. The zero-tolerance protective packaging (there’s no bubble wrap to pop or Styrofoam to set afire) is made from 100-percent recycled paper, and there are no wire cable ties, plastic snaps, or adhesives, just screws – which makes for an easier disassembly, if ever needed.

The Vers 1.5R (also an AM/FM sound system and alarm clock) states it’s compatible with all iPod docking models, except for third-generations, but makes no mention of iPhones. I was able to navigate my first-gen iPod Touch through instinctive use of the provided 18-function IR remote; the pictures are self-explanatory (i.e. final selections are made via the press of a button embedded with a checkmark). However, once it came time to choose “Favorite” preset radio stations, signified by the symbol of a star and of which there can be ten, the instruction manual got plenty of page-flips and re-reads.

Even if switched to radio play or turned off entirely, the Vers 1.5R always puts a pause on whatever song was last sounding from your iPod, so when ready, you can listen from where you left off, without having to search for the track again. You can also access your iPod’s lists of artists, albums, and songs by pressing the remote’s “Menu” button the respective number of times. And for those who have a plethora of playlists, “Gym Workout,” “Drinking Games,” “Baby-Making” and the like, there’s a button that assists in those selections, too.

Treble and bass can be altered even at 25 feet away using the remote – which, by the way, is cheap-looking and made silver to match the two volume and tuner dials on the device itself but, on the upside, can’t be misplaced under a Post-It like the iHome’s thumb-sized and over-simplified control. There’s rear port design for a deeper bass response, 15-watt speakers, a 3.5mm auxiliary input that other personal audio players can be connected to, and a class D amplifier which tends to be more energy efficient by producing a lot less waste heat than traditional Class AB’s.

After using the Vers 1.5R for only two days, I, true to my nature, began to take it for granted. But, I didn’t realize it as such until I got into my car. Suddenly, all the noise coming out of my 3-part contraption (made up of tape adapter, charger, and iPod) sounded muffled, so much so that I began to unplug everything and check wires to ensure nothing had broken or split. I eventually chose to drive in silence. I had adjusted pitches, volumes, and balances, but to no avail. The music was now completely uninspired and lifeless.

The Vers 1.5R comes in Piano White gloss, and the real wood veneers of Bamboo, Natural Cherry, Natural Walnut, and Dark Walnut; prices range from $200 – $220 at www.versaudio.com.

-Danielle Cheesman

Our 44th President has asked us to help renew the promise of our nation. And we don’t have to be in D.C. to do it. Just as Martin Luther King lived his life as a servant to others, Barack Obama hopes that we, too, will make a commitment to serving our community. He suggests www.usaservice.org as a starting point to discovering a nearby volunteering event. But choosing just one out of the 8,500 nationwide isn’t enough. Our President is hopeful that our spirit of service will endure beyond one day and one term.

Come January 20, he’ll be busy, but he’s still made himself somewhat accessible via phone. By texting “open” to 56333, replies-back will include news, transportation information, and ways to participate if you don’t plan on braving the Inauguration Day crowds. If you are at the capitol, however, enjoy a free, open-to-public celebration at the Lincoln Memorial on Sunday (to be broadcast on HBO that evening). On Monday, the free Kids Inaugural Concert will honor the children of military families and will be shown live on Disney television and radio. And on Tuesday, Barack will be attending the first ever Neighborhood Inaugural Ball. You can find out how to host your very own here, where you can also find everything Inauguration-related: updates, schedules, collectible memorabilia, and a pressroom.

It’s a new day!

Watch the video below:

- Danielle Cheesman

All a girl really wants is a classic tee. As endearing as the styling mantra of “I’m wearing my boyfriend’s (insert article here)” may be, the cut is never right. His clothes stretch and sag and fit snug in all the wrong places, and very rarely do they behold the versatility needed when us females are attempting to create effortless day-to-night looks.

Does anybody second me on this??

Lauren Alexander and April Leight did. ‘Twas the reason LnA was launched. The two beach belles (Lauren is from San Diego, and April from Malibu) founded LnA just a year ago, and already their line of tees, tanks, and hoodies has resonated with the likes of civilians and celebs (including GIANT featurees Ashlee Simpson and Beyonce).

No blaring logos, dangly ornaments, prints and patterns, or mystery fabric. Just good ol’ conventional cotton in maybe the most unconventional of colors—pumpkin, moss, fire, and flamingo, to name a few.

But like any notable designer willing to take a risk, the ladies have embarked upon unfamiliar territory (for them, at least) and introduced a collection of “Noir” pieces. The jet-black get-ups come in a high-shine, wetlook finish, and scream naughty, but when presented in a pencil skirt, for example, are simultaneously nice. (The ladies must have been given a heads-up on the effects of that dichotomy…)

So, boyfriends, would you rather see your girl in this? Or your grunge-era plaid?

-Danielle Cheesman

All Gone displays all of 2008’s greatest sold-out products in one 256-page book. Created and published by La MJC Agency, the series features every product sorted by release date, with a descriptive highlight written by famous photographers and original artists. And here’s a doozy: Whilst the book showcases limited-edition goods, it, in itself, is an exclusive, as only 1000 copies are being produced.

Nothing quite says “I Love You” like a gift reminding someone of all the hot shit you didn’t get them.

Expected reaction: Recipient uses book as catalog while making next year’s wishlist. Gifter’s foot makes way towards mouth; no longer appreciates irony.

7.

Supervision is an electronic budget diary that scans receipts, charts money coming in and out, talks(?) to your bank, and gives you monthly expense details.

A constant, hand-held reminder of your financial straits? I’m pretty sure empty pockets do that all their own.

Expected reaction: Recipient hires hacker to empty Gifter’s bank account using new fancy-shmancy device.
6.

Four types of commemorative Coco Chanel coins were recently minted — two are silver, two are gold, and each hold the denomination of 5 euros. The price tag for the most expensive gold coin is €5,900. That’s an 117,900 percent markup on its face value – a well-made investment in today’s market.

Karl Lagerfeld claims, “There might be less of it, but money can still be beautiful.” Unfortunate reality: Man believes it, buys for wife, fails at attempt to not end up sexless that night.

Expected reaction: Wife sobs uncontrollably at loss of savings. Children don’t go to college.

5.

Answer: If you decide to wrap this up and present it to a loved one with a serious face and no back-up gift: everything.

Expected reaction: Recipient immediately uses Flame as mace. Strangely gets in mood for Whopper.

Attn: Public
Why was Flame sold out at every Ricky’s location in New York, only a week after its release? Clearly, you’ve confused the holiday with April Fool’s.

4.

The Flying Alarm Clock is exactly what it looks like. When it sounds at the set time (P.S. it’s programmed to produce the noise of an effing siren), the plastic propeller launches into the air and flies around the room.

Btw, no snooze escape. The sound cannot be stopped until you retrieve and return it to the base station.

Expected reaction: Recipient tires himself out looking for missing propeller. Falls back asleep. Creates vicious (REM) cycle.

3.

The Gangsta Babies, made my Mezco Toyz [sic], are Pookie, Rey Rey (you know, from around the wayway), Benjino, and Big Deuce. They spend more on accessories than you do on your car, fool. If you have time, decipher the cryptic doll description: “Babies be trippin’, man!…These 10-inch hoodlers are A-Listing in the playground. Rockin’ fab-tastic clothing and so much baby bling that other rug rats can only catch their vapors. Pookie’s a green-eyed baller. But don’t make him cranky…Featuring a thermal shirt, t-shirt, dew rag, ring…”

Also, this set of 4 is called “Series 1.” *Holding breath*

Expected reaction: Recipient makes the Pook-man cranky. Gets popped. Pimped-out pacifier-style.

2.

The $1,400 TwoDaLoo side-by-side toilet seats boast a modest wall in between, but clearly don’t take into consideration the invasion of (facial) female privacy a man-stance can will cause. An upgraded version includes a seven-inch LCD television and iPod docking station.

Upside: Eco-friendly! Conserves water supply all with one flush.

Expected reaction: Recipient couple breaks up. Felt smothered.

(However, duality does seem to be a theme this season.)

1.

“Sniff, sniff. I made a stinky!” says this season’s $59.99 animatronic Baby Alive, whose stomach, like your grandpa’s, fails to agree with green beans. “Be careful,” reads the Hasbro doll’s promotional literature, “just like real life, sometimes she can hold it until she gets to the ‘potty’ and sometimes she can’t!” (A warning on the back of the box reads: “May stain some surfaces.”)

No one deserves this.

Expected reaction: Recipient force-feeds Baby Alive waiting for it to create skidmarks on all Gifter belongings.

-Danielle Cheesman

Biggie’s back. Well, that’s not the complete truth but with all the newly paid homages, it’s clear the people wouldn’t mind his revival. For one, his notable demeanor will be portrayed in the upcoming Fox Searchlight biopic Notorious. Even we felt it necessary to get a moment with the film’s buzzworthy stars. Also, Mister Cee recently debuted Jadakiss’ “Letter to B.I.G.,” a heartfelt prose-like message that’s both reflective and anticipatory and proclaims a longing for B.I.G.’s return: ”I can go on for a year about how would it be if you were still here / The game’s gotten cheaper / Rappers is more commercially successful now, but the heart’s a lot weaker.” With music and movies clearly influenced by (arguably) the greatest rapper ever, comes the tributary attire.

Artist and designer Ruslan Karablin, better known as SSUR, has collaborated with longtime friend, patron, and supporter, acclaimed photographer Barron Claiborne, to create a three-style tee featuring the portrait of the famed lyricist. The chosen image? A familiar one. The frequently used, abused, and bootlegged picture taken by Claiborne himself just five days prior to B.I.G.’s death. You know the one: the rapper stares droopy-eyed, donning a crown—hence, the tee’s title. The “King of Brooklyn” shirts feature the reworkings of SSUR, who hails from the same borough, as the illustration of guns are morphed with B.I.G’s features, and each is meant to represent a stage in his life (and untimely death).

With only 350 shirts set to be available exclusively between the NYC location of SSURPLUS and few selected boutiques, you may want to pre-order here.

-Danielle Cheesman

By definition, and I challenge you to disprove this, a “quickie,” in the cleanest of terms, is a hurried sexual encounter. Frequency of such can (sadly) determine the celebrity of many the hormone-engulfed adolescent. Subsequent stories detailing partner, time, and – most important when judging – place, of such an act will grant said honoree a figurative crown of symbolic manhood from his less-than-lucky friends, plus lots of backslaps, high-fives, and “you da’ man’s!” This is a sad sight to see, but nevertheless, a truth for the male species (of what I hope is only) under the age of 21.

For women, however, a “quickie” is the ability to shout “Do I Look Like I Give a F**k?” from our chests – where we know you’re looking, anyway. I’m sorry to say, my hapless homies, but unfortunately for you and your ego, we don’t need you this round. This season, when we’re in the mood for a “quickie,” we mean Married to the Mob’s small re-release of old classics in new styles.

Invite-only parties can be a determination of popularity depending on what side of the offer you’re on. Alexis Maybank and Alexandra Wilkis Wilson, founders of Gilt Groupe, the private online community that grants member-only access to 36-hour online sample sales, joined forces with Bevy Smith—style maven, TV personality, freelance writer, and host of eponymous exclusionary dinner parties—to introduce their site to the fashion world of ATL. Last Wednesday, at the Spice Market in the Midtown W Hotel, the three queens of exclusivity brought out the best while paying homage to the city’s style and flair.