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Stacey Dash

Stacey Dash is our Spotlight Model.  She is one of the most underrated actors and beauties in Hollywood.  Stacey (born January 20, 1966 in The Bronx, New York) is a film and television actress of African American and Native American descent.  She is best known for her role as high school student Dionne Davenport in the 1995 film and TV series Clueless.

Stacey was featured in the August 2006 issue of Playboy magazine.  This feature has boosted her popularity (it got our attention).

   

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You can see photos from the Stacey Dash Playboy feature at Daily Niner.com.

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Stacey Dash bio information courtesy Wikipedia

Click Here To View The Stacey Dash Internet Movie Data Base (IMDB) Page

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An Exclusive Interview with Char E’

Glamour Model and Actress Char E’ Is Something Special

Char E’ (pronounced Shar-A) is an aspiring actress and commercial print model.  More importantly, she is the first recognized African American painted pin-up model on the Internet.  What’s even more amazing is that Char E’ is still “getting’ it done” at the age of 39.  Yes, you read correctly.  Char E’ is 39 years old.  When you look at Char E’ one wonders if she is drinking from the same fountain of youth as Lena Horne and Diane Carroll.  Simply put, Char E’ is as smart as she is breathtakingly beautiful.

Born in Mississippi and raised in New Mexico, can credit her unique look to her heritage, which is a mix of African American, Choctaw Indian, Sudanese and Irish.  She has beat out thousands of woman half her age for major roles in the past and has even been turned away from castings calls because the producer was looking for an “older woman.” 

Char E’ is not new to the entertainment business.  In addition to modeling, Char E’ has appeared in national and international commercials, done voice over work and hosted a music video show for PAX TV. 

We recently caught up with Char E’ for this exclusive interview. 

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The Char E’ Interview 

EE.net:  First of all, thank you for taking time out for this interview.  You pronounce your name “Shar A,” is that correct?

Char E’:  Yes, you pronounced it correctly. 

EE.net:  Your background is very impressive.  You’re a model and an actress.  I understand that you are the first recognized African American pin-up model.  Is this true? 

Char E’:  Yes, there or no other documented examples of the presence of a female -African American Painted Pin-up Model on the Internet prior to my launching in late 1999/2000 when my first web site charepinups.com was being birthed.  In addition, there were only a handful of examples of any modernized pin-up art on the Web at that time. 

EE.net:  What is a “pin-up” model and how does this differ from other modeling categories?

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Char E’:  The word “pin-up” means “perfect, wholesome and flawless.  Of course this is only representative of the clean and often whimsical poses that come to mind.  There is an old fashioned elegance that is appreciated in this form of erotica; therefore it does have its own special place!  In an age were “skin is in,” I do not try to replace my pin-up work with my modern day bikini/lingerie shots.  However, the pin-up portion of my portfolio has certainly enhanced it.  At one time I was the only black model to dare use pin-up art on a composite card in New York City!  At that time few photographers and artists had knowledge of how to paint the model.  Shortly thereafter, my artist Guy Powers started getting calls from top modeling agencies asking how these models could shoot with him. 

EE.net:  How and when did you get into the modeling business?  

Char E’:  You will never believe this!  While still a young teenager I wanted to be a writer, a marine biologist or an archeologist.  However, math was not my forte’ so while cutting a math class as a freshman at Albuquerque High School in New Mexico I was approached in the hall by a very attractive woman who questioned who I was.  She was asking me about my age, etc.  I thought she was the demerit police and I was going to be sent to Detention Hall (laughing).  However, it turns out that her name was Star, and that she was an agent.  She gave me her card and it took off from there. 

EE.net:  You don’t look your age.  In fact, you look great.  At the risk of being rude, may I ask how old you are?  

Char E’:  Sure I am very proud of my age it has opened many doors for me as well as interesting conversation! I am 39 years old and I have a 20-year-old son. 

EE.net:  Whoa.  39.  You are holding it down big time.  Glamour modeling tends to be a young person’s business, or at least that’s what many in the business would lead you to believe.  Not only are you competing, you’re beating out women half your age.  How does that make you feel? 

Char E’:  Great and at times a little guilty. At other times a bit immature because naturally the other Models that I associate with on shoots or that become friends are generally quite younger. 

EE.net:  Looking at you, I must say, that you defy nature.  How have you managed to retard the aging process?  

Char E’:  I still have not figured that out and I certainly do not eat healthy as a rule unless you consider Twinkies as part of the fifth food groups. (Laughing) 

EE.net:  You mean, Twinkies, Ho Ho’s and Krispy Kreme’s are NOT part of a healthy diet? 

Char E’:  No, I don’t think so Gary. 

EE.net:  Do you diet and exercise or are you just blessed with great genes? 

Char E’:  Many years ago about 12 years, I took kickboxing and Kung Fu.  I was even asked to be an instructor.  That was the last time I have participated regularly in any form of structured exercise.  I have only recently begun to put exercise into my weekly routine.  I still love boxing and am eager to set up a punching and kick bag at home!  I also own a “Total Gym.” 

EE.net:  Total Gym.  Is that the equipment that I see advertised on TV infomercials? 

Char E’:  You got it.  I use it 4 days a week.  It really works. 

EE.net:  Sales may just increase after folks look at how fit you are and know that you use this thing 4 days a week.  (Laughing). 

Char E’:  I’m telling you it works. 

EE.net:  Tell us about your background.  Where did you grow up? 

Char E’:  I was born in Jackson, Mississippi and raised in Ohio from age 2-14, relocating to New Mexico thereafter. 

EE.net:  You have some rather striking features.  What’s your ethnic background or culture?  

Char E’:  My Mothers family is Sudanese, Blackfoot and Choctaw Indian.  My father’s family is Blackfoot Indian, African American and Irish.  My father’s grandfather was born in Ireland. 

EE.net:  Which discipline do you prefer, acting or modeling?

Char E’:  Acting!  That’s my passion. 

EE.net:  Talk about your signature pin-ups.  Much of your work is considered to be “art.”  Isn’t this correct? 

Char E’:  Yes.  My first pin-up piece was part of an art exhibit in a Soho, New York gallery almost 7 years ago!  The owner of the gallery, Louis K. Meisel, a successful pin-up artist wrote the bible on pin-up called, “Great American Pin-up.”  There are many famous artists who have works exhibited right next to some of the work created by my artist Guy Powers.  The difference with modern day pin-up art and vintage art is the procedure in which it is created.  Most watercolors are replaced with Photoshop software, however people are in awe when I explain to them that my body is not painted.  The photograph is a canvas and the clothing, backdrop, makeup and hair is enhanced or perfected through graphics in Photoshop and in some cases watercolors are added thereafter to give texture and special effect.  Each piece takes days to complete and before each shoot I have researched the historical content, time period and mood for each pose. 

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EE.net:  How much would a typical piece of art featuring your likeness sell for?  

Char E’:  In galleries they are priced from $1,500-$25,000 up to 38,” however, I have since made them readily available to the general public by reproducing them in mass quantities on poster and photographic paper apposed to a Giclée print, therefore reducing the price to as low as $17.00 per print. 

EE.net:  There are a lot of models in the business and on the Internet.  What is it about you that make you so appealing and attractive to artists and advertisers?  

Char E’:  I will have to say my very confident attitude and strong communication and business skills. I am aware that I am blessed with unique features, height, body etc. But there are hundreds of thousands of strikingly beautiful woman in the world! Many people have told me that when I leave a room my presence is still felt. I make such a strong statement in the way that I speak and present myself to the world.  I will admit however, that my fresh look and retro pin-ups are to some degree an untapped market.  While there is an unlimited opportunity for advertisers to jump onto the pin-up “craze” many are presently using pin-ups to sell products such as cigarettes, cosmetics, liquor, collectables and apparel such as handbags, shoes and accessories. 

EE.net:  Are you involved with any other projects?  

Char E’:  I was a featured model in the November issue of FBM magazine.  I will soon be a featured model for Cell Phone Entertainment subscribers as well as a model in a series of downloadable wallpaper for cell phones with a different company and I will begin shooting a new series of photos for the development of my “new” official web site.  Folks can visit my Yahoo site at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/PinUpCharE.  My first book, “Virtual Youth,” will be published soon as well as my own line of vintage inspired clothing with the launch of “Pin-up Girl Jeans.” 

EE.net:  You are clearly multi-talented.  How involved are you with the business aspect of your career?

Char E’:  160%.  I am a businesswoman 24/7!  My friends have teased me and asked that I turn if off after 5:00pm because I always “sound” so professional. (Laughing).  At one time years ago I had a personal manager with REK Management in NYC who paved the way for future opportunities by working hard to open doors for me that gave me the confidence that I have in my career today.  I also can thank my promoter Cliff Strobe who was there for me back in 2000 in NYC and my publicist Lia for all the time and effort in marketing, although there is still a lot more work to do. 

EE.net:  Tell us about your web site (www.cafepress.com/charepinups). 

Char E’:  This is a project that is dear to my heart in that there are unlimited ways to promote the beautiful products available!  There is something for all taste from T-shirts, to coffee mugs, mouse pads, sweat suits, tote bags, writing journals and even thongs all displaying my whimsical poses.  However, I am well aware that my fans are requesting an official site as I had years ago that will link to the retail shop. 

EE.net:  How big a factor is sex in the modeling business?  

Char E’:  Too big this is why it is important to understand why a model or actress wants to be a part of this lifestyle as a career choice and be VERY strong on what they will and will not compromise on.  

EE.net:  What’s the best part of being Char E’? 

Char E’:  Let’s just say if I were not me I would wish there were more people like me out there.  I am one of the few 100% sincere people you will meet in your entire lifetime. 

EE.net:  You know, given our interactions over these past few months, I would concur with that.  What’s the worst part of being Char E’?

Char E’:  I am entirely to giving and put very little focus on myself in my personal life. I also have been told I am too trusting.  I am working on these things. 

EE.net:  Are you married?  Single?  Have a significant other?  

Char E’:  I am single and waiting too see what develops. 

EE.net:  What was your earliest or most vivid recollection of being or feeling different?

Char E’:  That's a very interesting question.  I would have to say that my most vivid recollection of being different was being the only black student in a school of 1200 students.

EE.net:  What do you want to do when you’re modeling career is over?  

Char E’:  Open a Community Resource Center and Developmental Home for displaced fathers who desire to be re-connected with their children or families as a result of drugs, unemployment, unmarketable job skills, incarceration, and domestic abuse. 

EE.net:  What advice would you give to women who want a career in the modeling or entertainment industry? 

Char E’:  Please read and study all you can from the magazines and ask a lot of questions.  Ask questions of people who are connected and in the entertainment industry.  Get involved in church functions and groups, as this will keep you spiritually balanced and boost your self-esteem.  I would also encourage them to go to their local casting agent in the next largest city that you live in, be sure to bring a recent photo and always smile on the inside as well as out.  Don’t give up there is a world of possibilities out there! 

EE.net:  How can we support you?  

Char E’:  WOW!  You have in a very positive way by extending this opportunity for exposure with your very popular site.  I would however, like to invite serious investors to contact me at whatsnewnews@yahoo.com and don't forget to visit my Yahoo site at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/PinUpCharE.

EE.net:  Anything else you want to say or share with us? 

Char E’:  Thanks to all my fans for the support and to my Mom for always pushing me a little further and thank you Black Men In America for being such a positive presence on the Internet! 

EE.net:  Thank you Char.

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Char E’ is the first recognized African American painted pin-up model on the Internet.

Publisher’s note:  A Giclée (ghee-clay) print is a an advanced archival printmaking process for creating high quality fine art reproductions on paper or canvas using professional quality resolution and print equipment. 

Wanna make time stand still?  Order your customized Char E’ clock and other products from her online store The Pinup Shop.com.  Click here to go there now.

Posted 2006.

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Jana Stewart :  The Picture of Health 

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May I be honest with you?  How can I say this?  I have never found women who are bodybuilders to be “my cup of tea.”  The few women that I’ve seen have been too cut and too ripped for my taste.  They had lost some of their feminine qualities. 

I know that beauty is a subjective thing.  Think about it.  One man’s Beyoncé is another man’s Aunt Esther. 

Well folks, I’m here to tell you that Jana Stewart has changed my perspective.  Jana has the right balance—of fitness and beauty.  When you couple that with her tenacity and drive to be successful, you end up with a beautiful and winning combination.  Simply stated, this woman is a winner. 

Everybody has a story to tell and Jana’s story began early in life when her parents enrolled her in a variety of activities.  She participated in softball, cheerleading, dance, gymnastics and theater all before the age of 16.  In high school Jana continued to participate in cheerleading and even tried powder puff football during her senior year and coached a cheerleading team. 

After graduating, Jana attended Florida A&M University.  It was at this stage of her life that Jana focused her attention on academics.  She earned a Bachelors of Science degree in Business Economics and a Masters degree in Public Administration.

Armed with her degrees she moved to the ATL (Atlanta, GA) and worked for Arthur Andersen and IBM.  She really got into fitness while planning a trip to Cancun.  She wanted to make sure that she was “bikini ready.”  Since that time, she’s been focused on good health, fitness and nutrition.

Jana Stewart is an inspiring young talent.  Check out our interview with her and get motivated. 

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EE.net:  Hello Jana.  Thanks for taking time out of your schedule for this interview.  What part of the country did you grow up? 

Jana Stewart:  Thank you for the opportunity.  I grew up in Southfield, MI.  I’m the only girl.  I have two older brothers. 

EE.net:  Where did you go to school?  

Jana Stewart:  I attended Southfield High School and then went on to get my Bachelors and Masters degree from Florida A&M University. 

EE.net:  Do you consider yourself to be more of a model, fitness expert, trainer or competitor?

Jana Stewart:  I really consider myself to be all of the above.  My first love is competing, I also love modeling, and it’s the mission of my company (J Fitness) to help everybody learn to live a healthy lifestyle. 

EE.net:  Tell us more about the competitive aspects of your career. 

Jana Stewart:  Well I compete in Figure competitions.

EE.net:  Figure competitions?  OK, help a brother out.  What’s that? 

Jana Stewart:  It’s a form of bodybuilding, but we are supposed to be less muscular and curvier.  But we train just like bodybuilders and endurance athletes.  I train twice a day and I have a very strict diet that I follow weeks before a show.  Right now I’m getting ready for the Iron Man Figure Competition in Pasadena, CA (Feb 18). 

EE.net:  Less muscular and less curvier.  I like that.  Can’t you tell by looking at my physique?  

Jana Stewart:  I’m not going there.  LOL! 

EE.net:  Is there such a thing as “fitness modeling?” 

Jana Stewart:  Yes. 

EE.net:  What is it?  

Jana Stewart:  You can find fitness models in all the Fitness magazines.  Sometimes clients like a more toned and fit look. 

EE.net:  What were you doing before you became a model?  

Jana Stewart:  What I’m still doing now.  Working in the Medical Sales field.  I love competing and modeling but until I get a big sponsorship deal, I have to work a 9 to 5. 

EE.net:  How did you get interested in bodybuilding and health and fitness? 

Jana Stewart:  I started reading Oxygen magazine; I wanted to look like the women in those magazines.  So I started contacting some of them.  I even went to visit a few of them, and then I decided to compete like them. 

EE.net:  Has having a healthy lifestyle affected you in other areas of your life? 

Jana Stewart:  Oh YES!  Some of my friends don’t want to hang out with me anymore because they think I’m boring and have no life because I don’t hang out drinking all the time.   

EE.net:  I’m not surprised. 

Jana Stewart:  Some men get really intimidated, not really sure why.  I sometimes don’t have time to be as social as I’d like because after working a full day, training twice a day, working on J Fitness projects, prepping for competitions.  I just don’t have time for anything but the bed. 

EE.net:  OK, tell the truth.  Do you really enjoy working out or is it more of a necessity?  

Jana Stewart:  I LOVE working out!  Even if I were not competing, I’d still train like I do now.  It makes me feel so good. 

EE.net:  Wow.  Well it shows.  What does a typical workout routine for you consist of?

Jana Stewart:  I get up at 3AM, do drills in the pool for 30 – 40 minutes, weight train for 30 – 60 min., and then do 45 – 60 minutes of cardio. 

EE.net:  Wait a minute.  3:00 am?  How did you get so knowledgeable about fitness, beauty and nutrition? 

Jana Stewart:  I read a lot, I surround myself with very knowledgeable people, and I presently have and have had in the past, really great trainers. 

EE.net:  There are a lot of models on the Internet.  What makes you different? 

Jana Stewart:  I’m not just your typical fitness model, I work with some of the best fashion photographers in the industry…so if you want bikini, I can give you that, but if you prefer evening gown, I can give you that to.  I also have a great attitude and I truly want to help people achieve their goals. 

EE.net:  How involved are you with the business aspect of your career?  

Jana Stewart:  Very much so.  I recently signed a contract with Honey Bunny Model Management.  Although they do a lot of my promoting, etc., for me, I’m still very involved.  I run J Fitness by myself, it’s a lot of hard work, but Health and Fitness is really my passion.  I live for this. 

EE.net:  Are there any modeling jobs that you won’t do? 

Jana Stewart:  I will not pose nude and I would not be caught dead doing some of these trashy photos that I’m seeing on the Internet.  There’s a way to be sensual and sexy without looking like a prostitute.  And just to prove that, my membership section will be up in a few weeks, very sexy shots, but classy also. 

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EE.net:  What’s the best part of being a model? 

Jana Stewart:  The great photos that I’ll have forever.  Also, it makes me keep my beauty regime in check…there’s no time for slacking when at any given point you may have to pose in a bikini. 

EE.net:  How big a factor is sex in the modeling business?

Jana Stewart:  For some, it’s a big factor because that’s the only way they can get work.  For me, I have standards, if what’s on my comp card is not good enough to get me the job, then no thanks!!

EE.net:  Tell us about your web site.  Has having a web site helped you as a model?  Please explain.   

Jana Stewart:  Yes, www.janastewart.com has helped a great deal.  When I first got me web site, it was not that great.  But my manager recently reworked it and I LOVE it.  I’ve gotten all sorts of great feedback.  My online store and members section will be up and running soon!!!  It’s good to have an interesting, exciting web site.  On my site, you can get to know me, what I’m doing, how I do in my shows, but then you can also go to the Training sections and get work outs and diet tips.  Coming soon I’ll have live downloads of me demonstrating some of my training drills. 

EE.net:  Girl you are doing it?  Are you married?  Single? Have a significant other?  

Jana Stewart:  No, No, Not yet. 

EE.net:  LOL!  How long do you plan to stay in the modeling and fitness business?

Jana Stewart:  I plan to compete for about 7 more years.  I’ll always be in the fitness business. 

EE.net:  Where do you see yourself 5 years from now? 

Jana Stewart:  Doing the same thing, only working just for J Fitness, helping people to achieve their goals. 

EE.net:  What advice would you give to working women who want to live healthy and active lives, but can’t seem to find the time and energy to work out and eat healthy? 

Jana Stewart:  I’d tell them that even if they can spare 20 minutes out of a day, they can do some type of physical activity to help get, keep them in shape.  Eating healthy is very important, but it does not mean starving yourself.  I know that women are busy these days and have little time to prepare food, but little things like getting salad dressing on the side, avoiding sugar filled pop, cutting meals in ½ and eating every 2 – 3 hours can really knock off some pounds. 

EE.net:  Is there anything that you want to share with our readers that you didn’t get a chance to in this interview? 

Jana Stewart:  Please feel free to e-mail me at:  jana@janastewart.com with any questions that you have.  Please check my schedule often, if I’m in a city near you, come by to see me.  I’d love to meet you all.  I love meeting people from all walks of life.  Thanks for taking the time to read my interview…I look forward to hearing from you. 

 

The One, The Only – Deeca

EE.net:  Hey girl, what’s up? 

Deeca:  Everything. 

EE.net:  Let's get down to it.  You were our first model interview in January 2003, which gives you an advantage.  In the eyes of many, you set the standard by which all models are judged on this web site.  Why do you think you’re so popular on our site? 

Deeca:  I don’t know, you tell me (Laughing).  I guess beyond me having a cute face, and cute body, I keep it real.  I don’t sugarcoat anything and I tell it like it is.  I’m like an around the way girl with class and people tend to relate to that more than a made up dolly. 

EE.net:  I hear you.  So tell me, how have you managed to grow and be successful?

Deeca:  I just maintain myself and do what I have to do and not look at what others are doing.  I do ME first. I always think of ways I can better myself and grow and just do it.

EE.net: What has been your most significant personal learning over the past 5 years? 

Deeca:  I have learned to humble myself.

EE.net:  What has been your greatest "success" as model?

Deeca:  I think I am a success everyday.  Living and learning is all of the success that I need in this modeling business.  The modeling business is definitely a dog eat dog world and if you cant stand your ground and follow your gut first, there will always be someone trying to screw you around and break you down.  I launched my website over 3 years now and I still think that’s my greatest accomplishment of all.  I get millions of hits monthly, I get to showcase my work the way I want to and I get to share it with the fans who love me.

EE.net:  How much longer do you think you will model? 

Deeca:  2006 is my last year of modeling.  I thought this year would be the last but I still love doing it and want to continue.  I think there are still some things I would like to accomplish in the game and I plan to achieve this in 2006.

EE.net:  What do you like most about being a model? 

Deeca:  I love to seduce the camera. I have never had a problem doing that.  The camera captures something that video or live stream can never capture from me.  I am able to command every photo shoot and my performance.

EE.net:  You've been working out and reshaping that gorgeous body of yours.  What led to the focus on fitness? 

Deeca:  Working out is definitely self-motivated.  People would meet me and tell me, you have such a pretty face, if you would work out your legs more, you would be fiercer than you are right now.  I would take it with a grain of salt.  I would work out for a week then stop.  I would eat all kinds of foods and not think about what it was doing to my body.  One day I just felt the need to do it for myself and not for others.  I tell anyone when they workout, it has to be for them and no one else.  I work out 6 days a week and if I miss a day I feel sick.  It’s like a habit I can’t break now.  I have also stopped eating junk food, fast food, juice and soda.  All of that has been substituted with trail mixes, protein shakes and WATER which is the main key.  I see the difference in my skin and I am more energized everyday.

EE.net:  What’s the advantage of being a member of Deeca.com?  

Deeca:  Over 3000 pics of me, over 1000 pics of my guest models, video mpegs and first dibs at my private cam sessions.  Great photography and a web site that’s easy to navigate.  The site is polished.  Now who could ask for more? 

EE.net:  OK, I hear you loud and clear.  You are one busy lady.  Every time I try and get in touch with you, you’re on the go.  What’s up with that? 

Deeca:  I do my modeling at my own pace but I travel at least 3 times per month.  Running a modeling website is a 24 hour job even though people might not see it as that.  I’m constantly promoting and finding different ways to tap into new markets and generate new members. 

EE.net:  Is modeling your fulltime occupation?   

Deeca:  At the present moment, running my website and modeling is my only JOB so yes it is. 

EE.net:  I know that one of your favorite photographers is M. Shawn Dowdell.  Have you had the opportunity to work with Richard Franklin? 

Deeca:  Are you familiar with his work?   

EE.net:  C’mon now, you know we’re familiar with this guy.  We did a feature on him earlier this year.  He is great.  (You can read our feature on glamour photographer Richard Franklin at http://www.blackmeninamerica.com/e-spotlight.htm). 

Deeca:  Yes I have worked with Richard.  He is also another great photographer.  I have had the pleasure of working with many great photographers and I know that I don’t say it enough but I really appreciate them all.  I would like to give all of them a major big-up.  They are the ones who find my true beauty and I respect them all.  I love to work with different photographers because what one might not capture the other will.  Treagen Kier, Derrick Brown, Jean St. Aubin, Dain Burroughs, Greg Moore are all photogs that I respect and love to work with anytime! 

EE.net:  You’ve entered a lot of modeling contests over the past 18 months.  How many have you won? 

Deeca:  I haven’t really been in any contests recently.  I think they are overrated.  If a magazine wants you in their calendar, no set amount of votes determine that.  I don’t want to hassle my fans and friends to work overtime for me to win a contest that even if I do win, would not follow through on what the fans voted for. 

EE.net:  What qualities do you look for and most admire in a man? 

Deeca:  I do not have a specific kind of guy.  I just like someone I can talk to.  I love attention and am very spoiled. So someone who caters to my every need but very demanding at the same time turns me on.  Meaning, I spoil my man too.  I have a special man in my life.  I thought by now, we would’ve walked down that lovely chapel aisle, but certain circumstances put that on hold so we are just taking it day by day.

EE.net:  Do you have a lot of time to devote to a relationship?   

Deeca:  I give as much time as I can possible give.  Your partner should understand your passion and be your rock to hold you up.  We try to spend as much time as we possibly can, because we both have very demanding jobs, but the first thing we have is an understanding.  I work my schedule, he works his and we find time for us in the mix somewhere.   

EE.net:  You’re a much better businesswoman than you were when we first connected.  To what do you attribute you learning curve?   

Deeca:  I think everything is a learning experience.  I am a determined woman, and I strive for perfection.  I will mess up till it’s done right and I take criticism well. 

EE.net:  You’ve had great success as a model.  How long do you plan to stay in the business?   

Deeca:  I don’t know how much longer I will be doing this but I do know that whoever is my successor will learn everything from me so she won’t have to go through the same trials I’ve been through in this business.  Modeling will always be my first joy but there are a lot of other things I want to dabble in and I won’t let anything stop my future dreams. 

EE.net:  There are a lot of modeling scams and con artists out there preying on women.  What advice would you give to women who want to get into the modeling business?   

Deeca:  Keep your eyes and ears open, ask questions, do your homework and follow your gut instincts… If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.  Don’t be afraid to ask other models and photographers about companies out there.  We might know something you don’t. 

EE.net:  How can we continue to support you?   

Deeca:  You’ve done so much for me already and I appreciate it to the fullest.  Just being your “favorite” is support enough.  Black Men In America.com is the greatest!

Deeca:  You can see me in the new Hush Magazine sold Nationwide on news counters today and in the Mocha Cuties 2006 Calendar.  I can also be seen in Lasting Looks 2006 Calendar, Black Cuties (www.blackcuites.com) and Model of the Month December 2005.  You want some more? 

EE.net:  Sure.  Come on with it.

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Deeca:  Ok, Ladies of DBreeds (www.dbreedz.com) and Summerbunnies (www.summerbunnies.com).  I’ve also had the pleasure of working with Shawn Dowdell (one of the best photogs in the game right now) again while in ATL and got some of the hottest stuff.  I plan to work with him again on future projects.  These are all of my most recent layouts.  Also be on the lookout for the new layout of Deeca.com (www.deeca.com).  It will be FIERCE.  I have some ideas that most do not have on any world wide web so it will be the most talked about website once it’s up and running. 

EE.net:  I heard that.  It was great hooking up with you again.

Deeca:  Thank you Gary and all of my supporters.  You've done so much to support me.  Black Men In America.com are the best!

To learn more about Ms. Deeca and join her VIP Gallery, visit her web site at www.deeca.com.

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Photography Credit:  Kevin Goolsby, Derrick Brown and Paul Lawson

Introducing Brandi Candi

Brandi Candi is a 27-year-old aspiring model from Ohio, currently residing in Houston, TX.  She came to the attention of our Modeling Committee a few months ago and made the cut to the site.  Brandi is a newcomer to the modeling business.  She’s been modeling for a little over six months and enjoying every moment.   

Brandi describes herself as “a kind-hearted, laid back, and sophisticated woman who never takes anything for granted in life.”  “Life lessons have taught me to live every moment as my last, and always put God first,” says Brandi.  Brandi plans to absorb everything that the modeling industry can offer her.  Brandi is not without ambitions.  Her ultimate goal is to own the largest fashion clothing store ever! 

We decided to start the New Year off with a model that one of our Modeling Committee members described as a "fresh new face in modeling."

Ladies and gentlemen, please meet Brandi Candi. 

   

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EE.net:  First of all, thank you Brandi for taking time out for this interview.  Tell us about your background.  How and when did you get into the modeling business? 

Brandi:  My pleasure! I got into the modeling industry when I was offered an opportunity to do a shoot for a magazine about 7 months ago. After shooting I realized that modeling was something I definitely wanted to pursue for a while. 

EE.net:  There are a lot of models on the Internet. What distinguishes your from other models? 

Brandi:  There are a lot of beautiful models on the Internet, what I believe ultimately separates me from them is that I bring versatility to the industry. I can be sexy and classy at the same time. I’m not just in it to showcase my behind to the world. I have a lot more to offer, and I believe I showcase that in my photos and personality. 

EE.net:  Are you in school? 

Brandi:  I am currently in school pursuing my Bachelors degree in Business Management. I love fashion, and would like to have my own clothing store in the near future. 

EE.net:  Do you do any acting?

Brandi:  Currently I do not do any acting, however, acting is something that I have considered, and would not mind going for at all. 

EE.net:  Given a choice which would you prefer, acting or modeling? 

Brandi:  Both, I am willing to try almost anything that is positive. Modeling and acting are both very positive, and so is discipline in anything you do. 

EE.net:  Are you involved with any other projects?  

Brandi:  I’m currently just shooting trying to expand my portfolio in an effort to be considered for some of the best projects to come.

EE.net:  You are clearly multi-talented.  How involved are you with the business aspect of your career?

Brandi:  I am very involved in the business aspect of my career. I know and understand that it is very important that I work with the most professional individuals. I constantly keep myself educated about the industry, and I’m very careful with my judgment of character when it comes to working with photographers, management, agencies, etc. 

EE.net:  How big a factor is sex in the modeling business?  

Brandi:  Clearly sex sells in this industry, however, my goal for myself is to be able to attract a versatile audience; for example, I don’t just want to just make men look at me but I want to do print ads that can also attract woman and even teenagers and elders. 

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EE.net:  What’s the best part of being Miss Brandi?

Brandi:  The best part of being me is that I am sure about who I am and where I’m going. Not everyone is fortunate enough to have talents and know what to do with them. I know what type of creativity, personality, and sophistication I can bring to this industry. 

EE.net:  What’s the worst part of being Miss Brandi?

Brandi:  The worst part about being Brandi is that I model so sometimes men see a fantasy instead of trying to get to know the real me…this can make it hard to meet a good guy because when some of them realize that you are a real woman with real emotions, and opinions they turn away because they just want you to stay a fantasy girl! LOL…its funny but true! 

EE.net:  What do you want to do when you’re modeling career is over? 

Brandi:  I want to build have a clothing empire, and I would love to settle down and have a family. 

   

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EE.net:  What advice would you give to women who want a career in the modeling business?  

Brandi:  I would tell any woman who wants to model to keep god first, be versatile, be confident, and most of all respect yourself and others. 

EE.net:  How can we support you? 

Brandi:  Just keep me in your prayers, and expose me in a way that’s as positive and sophisticated as my images. 

EE.net:  Anything else you want to say or share with us?  

Brandi:  I would love to thank you for the opportunity to be a feature model on your web site. I know that there are a lot of beautiful woman out there just as hungry as me that could’ve been chosen. You all chose me and I am more than grateful!  Thank you!

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You can check out Brandi's MySpace page at:  www.myspace.com/lil_miss26.  You can also get your official "Brandi Candi" merchandise at www.cafepress.com/brandicandi.