In addition to Terry McMillan's take-no-prisoners interview that has been discussed here and elsewhere, several features in the latest Clik have caught our attention:
The full-page profile of Rashad Robinson, the Director of Regional Media for GLAAD. He says that visibility is key to empowering black gays and lesbians. "The only way we're going to change [homophobia] or make a change in people's lives, in the most fundamental way, is through changing hearts and minds by telling our stories."
Staff writer Scott Bogan writes a thought-provoking essay on the health crisis in our community and the need for involvement. His tone is similar to Keith Boykin's recent essay in Clik regarding complacency, and, his recent call for the type of direct action that confronted AIDS in the 1980s.
The special five-page feature on nutrition and fitness. Back in December, we noted that the sometimes-overlooked health and lifestyle features were becoming our favorites. The magazine has snagged Bally as a new advertiser and the section is complete with recipes, exercise tips and all that good stuff. Summertime is here, that means tank tops and square cut shorts, nah mean?
There are two fashion layouts—and editorial and a runway report. The layout is fun and creative but it's the runway boys that grab our ... umm, attention. These are previews from New York City's recent Fall Fashion Week. There is a subtle, organic sensuality to fall clothes, no? Plus, the models are stellar and very grown n' sexy. We like. :-)
The entertainment round-up is easy on the eyes and heavy on the laughs. Three dozen celebrities are profiled in "Rumors, Lies & Half-truths," including Rod 2.0 usual suspects such as Usher, 50 Cent, Omarion, Halle and, yes, Whitney "Crack is Whack" Houston. There are some interesting observations on Ray J and T.I. that even we missed. T-Pro interviews the lovely and talented Heather Headley. The diva says that her new husband is the inspiration for much of In My Mind.
This issue is not as large as other recent editions but there is more than enough content. Puma and several other new multinational brands have purchased full-pagers, so, it's obvious the magazine is doing well. As Martha sez, that's a good thing.
Probably the best-written article in this issue is Craig Washington's two-pager that essays the legacy of the late Coretta Scott King. But if you're looking for something that was written by yours truly ... sorry, nothing in this issue. We'll be in the next.
Previously:
Rod 2.0 Exclusive: The Terry McMillan Interview (Rod 2.0)
January Clikque (Rod 2.0)
December Clikque (Rod 2.0)
Fall Clikque (Rod 2.0)
Rod, I love these previews. You lay everything out, mention the writers by name, the advertisers, thanks so much.
Posted by: patrick s | 04 April 2006 at 02:24
Yes these previews are thoro.
Why didn't you write anything in this issue? I picked up the Clik in the Borders and looked for your name. I miss your writing.
Posted by: Michael | 04 April 2006 at 02:25