Chadwick Boseman as Jackie Robinson in the movie “42″. Photo courtesy of filmofilia.com

On April 15, 1947, Jackie Robinson made history, as the first African American to enter into Major League Baseball for the Brooklyn Dodgers. Amongst racial tension, harassment, and physical hardships during the games Jackie Robinson persevered, and broke the color line in baseball. The movie “42” (#1 movie in the U.S.) chronicles Jackie Robinson’s rise from the Negro League to Major League Baseball. In one particular scene, Philadelphia Phillies’ manager Ben Chapman taunts Jackie Robinson on the field by using racial slurs such as the n-word and coon. Robinson continues to keep his composure despite the struggles of enduring racism on and off the field.

Chadwick Boseman’s portrayal of Jackie Robinson was uplifting and moving. Harrison Ford also displayed a grand performance as Brooklyn Dodgers president and general manager Branch Rickey. The story of Jackie Robinson is one of triumphant, perseverance, courage and strength. Robinson had to deal with Jim Crow laws, in which he was not allowed to go the same hotels or bathrooms as his fellow team players. One of the most touching moments in the movies is the relationship he had with his wife Rachel. Robinson’s wife is the constant strength that helps him to endure the daily criticism and racism.

After reviewing this movie I couldn’t help but notice that Chadwick Boseman’s was a replica of a young Jackie Robinson and Alan Tudyk had an uncanny resemblance to Ben Chapman. Regardless of the resemblance to the real-life characters, the cast did embody the emotion of this movie. The movie overall is a montage to one of the greatest baseball players of all time. It is the hope and dreams of

Photo courtesy of toprankblog.com

It’s that time of year. Christmas trees are up, the fireplace is crackling, and you’re Christmas list is almost complete. Do you know what to get the public relations professional in your life. We have come up with the perfect gift guide that keeps on giving. We have fifteen holiday gifts that are perfect for the PR professional in your life. Whether it’s your daughter, son, wife, husband, friend, or co-workers; these gifts are a must have for PR professionals. Happy Shopping and Happy Holidays!

1. Spa packages: Who doesn’t want a hot stone massage? Every PR Pro needs a little R&R and what better way to relax than a spa certificate from your local spa.
2. Subscriptions:  PR Week and PR Daily are great resources for PR pros to read everyday. From the training section to the news features,these subscriptions are necessary in the field of public relations. 
3.  AP Stylebook: Every communication professional should stay up to date with AP Style. It is a must have for public relations. The book will cost anywhere from $13-20, or you can get an online annual subscription for only $25 at www.apstylebook.com. 
4.  PRSA Membership: Becoming a member of Public Relations Society of America will enhance your career in the public relations. PRSA offers many tools and resources and an opportunity to network with fellow PR professionals. Around the holiday season, PRSA offers a very nice discount for students and professionals as a promotion. You give the PRSA membership gift at www.prsa.org/joinus. 
5. iPad or iPad Mini- This is self explanatory. The ipad is a must have for PR pros. The ipad is the go to gadget. It’s a mini laptop right in your lap. You can go the local Apple Store or online to www.apple.com. 
6. Jamba Juice Gift Card:
Jamba Juice has some of the best natural smoothies and juice to get you started with your day, or a quick healthy lunch. Jamba Juice is a quick “pick me up” for the everyday PR pro. 
7. Starbucks Gift Card: A Starbucks coffee is the energy drink for PR professionals. 
8. Héctor Serrano Digital Downtime Watch: This watch is not only stylish, but is all a great time management tool for social media. This watch helps PR professional divide up time spent on Facebook, Twitter and email each day.
9.  Public Relation Books: PR professional have to stay on top of trends and valuable information. Books like The Social Media Bible: Tactics, Tools, and Strategies for Business Success (Wiley Desktop Editions) by Lon Safko (May 8, 2012), Cutlip and Center’s Effective Public Relations (11th Edition) by Glen M. Broom (Jul 2, 2012), and Online Public Relations: A Practical Guide to Developing an Online Strategy in the World of Social Media (PR in Practice) by David Phillips and Philip Young (Jun 1, 2009) are great resources. There tons of public relations books at amazon.com. 
10. iTunes Gift Card: iTunes are perfect for PR pros who are trying to keep up in the digital world. A iTunes gift card can allow a PR Professional to download and some of their favorites songs to listen in the office or on plane traveling to events.
11. Yearly Planner: Sometimes it’s best to have the “old school” planner right in front of your face to keep your schedule organized. Smartphones are great to log your schedule, but the yearly calendar is great back up. Target has some of the best planners in all sizes for Pr Pros.
12. The Sharper Image Telescopic iPhone Lens: You never know when you will need to take some photos or do viral video for a client on the spot. This handy telescopic lens offers stability to capture great pictures and videos right on your smartphone. This electronic device is available at your local Kohls or online at http://www.kohls.com.
13. Gift Cards: A Gift Card to Ann Taylor, Macy’s, Kohls, or Neiman Marcus is perfect for the PR Pro. All PR Pros know the important of image, thus it’s important to dress accordingly and with style. Any gift card from a retail store can enhance your wardrobe in the New Year.
14. Business Card and Thank you cards: There is some much digital technology, but a simple business and thank you card go a long way. You can get business and thank you cards or your local Staples. If you want to go the extra mile contact a graphic designer to customize some special business and thank you cards for the PR Professional in your life. 
15.  Gift of Family Time: PR Professional has extremely busy lives and there is nothing like spending time with family. If you don’t know what to the PR Professional in your life; the best gift to give is time.

It’s officially the holiday season. Mistletoe, christmas carols, egg nog and shopping. Tis the season for fabulous gifts and bargains.  It’s the most wonderful time of the year and Aristocratic Journalism has been on a shopping frenzy to narrow down our top 10 holiday must-haves. It’s the season of giving and one of lucky subscribers will win one of these fabulous must have gifts. Comment and let us know which one of these gifts you would love to have under your tree.

1. Macy’s ~Michael Kors

Michael Kors Golden Parker Glitz Watch $250.00. Photo courtesy of www.michaelkors.com

Michael Kors’ watches are perfection. It’s the perfect arm candy for any season.

2. Jeffery Campbell Shoes

Lathan Sneaker in Black/White $196.00. Photo courtesy of www.revolveclothing.com

Jeffery Campbell’s Lathan Sneaker in Black/White is the perfect sneaker to complement any collection. The heal measures to 3” in length and the German leather sole makes this shoe extra comfortable. This shoe is available at revolveclothing.com.

3. Urban Decay Vice Palette

The Urban Decay Vice Palette $59.00. Photo courtesy of www.urbandecay.com.

The Urban Decay “Vice Palette” with 20 vibrant eye shadows is creamy and highly pigmented. This is the perfect palette for holiday glam.

4. Wine Glass Charmers

Wine Glass Charmers $6.95 per set. Photo courtesy of www.pier1.com

Bring on the bubbly. With the holidays approaching, wine will flowing at holiday festivities. Theses cute wine charms from Pier One will stand out on your guest’s glass of wine.

5. Hello Kitty Mirror Necklace

Hello Kitty Mirror Necklace $18.00. Photo courtesy of www.sephora.com

Hello Kitty created the perfect mirror necklace right before the holidays. This little mirror necklace is perfect for a quick glance to check your makeup and it’s a great fashion accessory. You can find this gold necklace at Sephora stores.

6. Dom Pérignon Vintage 2003 by David Lynch Champagne

Dom Pérignon Vintage 2003 by David Lynch Champagne $149.00. Photo courtesy of www.domperignon.com

There is nothing like a bottle of Dom Pérignon to start the season off right. This vintage 2003 Dom Pérignon has rich aromas of honey, brioche and hints of vanilla. This is a welcome edition to any celebration. You can get this bubbly treat at www.grandwinecellar.com

6. Rock.Chic.Vintage

Very Vintage Pearl Body Chain $55.00. Photo courtesy of www.rockchicvintage.com

Rock.Chic.Vintage is an edgy, vintage online fashion boutique. We fell in love Rock.Chic.Vintage’s Pearl Body Chain. It’s the must have accessories that will add something extra special to that all purpose little black dress this season. You can find this body chain and much more at Rock.Chic.Vintage.

7. Target & Neiman Marcus Collection

Target and Neiman Marcus Collection. Photo courtesy of Target.com

Our two favorite stores Target and Neiman Marcus collaboration this holiday season to bring a collection that keeps on giving. This collection features goods within a broad price spectrum from $7.99 to $499.99 with high-end fashion from designers such as Oscar de la Renta. From cocktail dresses, totes, hats, scarves and cocktail sets this collection is a hidden gem. You collection will be available for a limited time at your local Target and Neiman Marcus.

8. Uggs

Short Sheepskin Cuff – $275. Photo courtesy of www.uggaustralia.com.

Everyone should have at least one pair of  Uggs in their lifetime. This comfortable short sheepskin cuffs are fashionable and perfect for the winter season. You can order these toasty boots at www.uggaustralia.com.

9. SiTea: Enchanted Teas & Treats

SiTea Gold size makes 12-20 cups of amazing tea for only $7.50. Photo courtesy of www.siteaspice.com.

SiTea creates magical tea and spice blends — sourced from ingredients fairly traded from the world over. We are in love with the ‘All Night Long!’ Ginseng & Passionfruit Infused Green Tea and rida-Licious! Luscious Fruit, Cinnamon, Green & Black Tea. These all organic teas will keep you warm during those long winter nights. You can order this refreshing tea at www.siteaspice.com.

10. Victoria’s Secret Supermodel Essentials:
Fleece Pant & Burnout V-neck Tee

Fleece Pant & Burnout V-neck Tee $55-$68. Photo courtesy of www.victoriassecret.com.

There is nothing like a pair of comfy fleece pants an v-neck tee. This is a perfect combination for holiday traveling. Fashionable, warm, and comfortable; this set is one of Victoria’s Secret popular items.   You can purchase this comfy set at www.victoriassecret.com or at your local Victoria’s Secret.

Photo courtesy of mycolumbusmagic.com

You’ve seen her, this particular woman hanging out with the guys. She’s secure, funny, and genuine. She does not have a problem having a beer with guys and having a non-judgmental conversation. She’s the girl that some women love and hate. Yet, men love her. She is the ultimate best friend and the go to for a woman’s perspective. It’s a blessing and a curse to be the “home girl”. Don’t get me wrong, I love having male friends; they are like brothers to me. I’ve had a crew of male friends since I was kid, but what happens when you are always the “home girl”. Men talk about the “friend zone” with women, but some women are often placed in what I call the “homegirl” zone. The “home girl” zone is where you are literally one of the guys. You are invited to watch the NBA games, talk smack, hear about dating dilemmas, and every dirty secret that men possess. Men are comfortable around the “homegirl”; besides his mother she is the woman know him better than his male parts. He can be vulnerable, vulgar, and open-minded with the “homegirl” without judgment. She is the listening ear that is always there in good and bad times.

After years of always being the “homegirl”, I began to despise and analyze my life long role as the homegirl to a crew of male friends. I also began to wonder how can women avoid the “home girl” zone. Do you make your intentions known at the beginning of a friendship? There is not an easy way to get out of the “home girl” zone. There are times where you can transition from the “homegirl” to the potential wife. After all who doesn’t want to marry their best friend. The more I discussed this issue with my male and female friends; I started to embrace being the “home girl”. Many of my female friends wanted to be the “homegirl” and found out what is it about the “homegirl” that makes men so comfortable to be themselves. If you are a “homegirl”, love and embrace it. Men adore, respect, and genuinely love the “homegirl”. It is an honorary position that men to not take lightly. Although, it may get a little annoying sometimes when you are always the “homegirl” to every guy you meet, just know that every “homegirl” eventually becomes the number one girl.

President Obama, First Lady Michelle Obama, Vice President Joe Biden and wife Jill Biden celebrate election. President Obama and Vice President Joe Biden were re-elected for four more years on Tuesday night.

Barack Obama was re-elected as the President of the United States of America in a race that was uncertain until battleground state Ohio was won over. Millions of American stood in long lines voting on Tuesday for their voice to be heard. The GOP had hopes in Presidential Candidate Mitt Romney and strongly disappointed in the results. Did minorities decide the 2012 election? According to CNN, Exit polls showed Obama received strong support, as expected, from women voters as well as overwhelming support from African Americans and strong backing from Hispanic voters, similar to the coalition that carried him to victory four years earlier to make him the nation’s first African American president.

President Obama: “I’m Really Proud of All of You.”

President Obama tearfully thanks supporters.

This is a new America and minorities are speaking loud and clear. The days of the “Good ol’ Boy Club” is shrinking and multicultural American is rising. The days of the conservative white males world are tricking down. Minorities are becoming the majority and this means that either you adapt or get left being in a changing world. The United States of America is a huge melting with different nationalities and ethnicities. For the betterment of the United States all nationalities have to be taken into consideration. Perhaps the GOP should reconsider the previous strategies they have used and take a different approach in their conservative nature. At the same time, Democrats cannot take the minority vote for granted. Nevertheless, President Obama has four more years to fulfill promises and bring renewed hope to Americans.

LA to LA Reality TV Stars Ike Newton (Left) and Robert Start (Right)

With so many Reality TV shows that full of shenanigans, drama, and fighting. I began to give up hope that good Reality TV shows actually existed until I was introduced “L.A. to L.A.” a new reality about two young men from New Orleans moving to Los Angeles chasing their dreams. Ike Newton and Robert Stark Jr are survivors of Hurricane Katrina and are on a quest to fulfill their dreams in Los Angeles. They are determined to make it to the NFL and pursue their dreams of opening a restaurant in Los Angeles. I had a chance to talk with Ike Newton to discuss the reality show and his dreams.

Aristocratic Journalism- What was your motivation in becoming a professional football?

Ike Newton- The motivation came when I was a kid in elementary playing around with my friends. Football became serious when I was in high school at George Washington Carver.

Aristocratic Journalism- Why did you decided to move to Los Angeles instead of trying out for the New Orleans Saints?

Ike Newton- During Junior College in Victorville, I would travel to LA and see what the city had to offer outside of sports. I felt like L.A would be a great opportunity while I waited on another football opportunity.

Aristocratic Journalism How did Hurricane Katrina affect your life?

Ike Newton- My mom and I lost everything. It took everything we had. We are still working to build back up from the bottom. The hardest part was losing my home. I looked at Hurricane Katrina as an opportunity to make a move from Louisiana to see other things and chase my dreams.

Aristocratic Journalism- I can’t wait to see this show on Television. What networks are you hoping will pick up the show?

Ike Newton -We are open to anybody. It’s all about keeping the creative vision and delivering what we planned from day one. I haven’t personally handpicked whom I would like to be with, I watch all networks. It’s all about who is willing to give us the opportunity. We are definitely shooting at everybody including TBS, HBO, and Showtime, even Oprah.

L.A to L.A’s Ike Newton

Aristocratic Journalism -There are so many Reality TV shows. What would set your Reality TV show “LA To LA” apart from the others?

Ike Newton- Our show separates from other reality shows because we are showing individuals coming from nothing to something outside of the drama. Drama comes from regular life and we don’t have to focus on that. You face drama everyday with from your job, family members, etc. You are looking at people who are from New Orleans who are chasing their dreams out of a situation where we weren’t born with a silver spoons. When people watch our show and see us making it; they can take certain situations and apply it their lives. To be honest, every other show I have watched on TV, I have embraced a lot of positive inspiration to my own life to better myself. I just want to give a different approach to the networks outside of what’s already on and keep it like Hip-Hop. That’s how I look at it. It’s Hip-Hop when its still cool to watch and with education included, it will make people want to watch it even more.

Aristocratic Journalism- I am a fashionista and I see in “L.A. to L.A.’s” teaser that you are into fashion. Tell me more about the clothing line you are starting?

Ike Newton- The clothing line is called “Just Living”. I actually created the line in January 2012. I was getting a little more creative living in Los Angeles going on Melrose Place and seeing the different looks. I got a lot of motivation by Zara and how he designs his clothes. It inspired me to do my own look with a little urban and European feel. Whatever ideas and creative thoughts I have; I just try to run with it. All my thoughts just come from God and I don’t even question it; I just run with it.

Aristocratic Journalism- We know the ladies will want to know if you are single.

Ike Newton-Yes, I am currently single.

Aristocratic Journalism-How is the dating scene is Los Angeles versus New Orleans?

Ike Newton-We have southern hospitality roots and were raised by our parents to respect women. Being in Los Angeles with all the finer things and good living that you can do with women is just a bonus. At the end of the day we treat women like queens and some of the most beautiful women are in New Orleans. Being in Los Angeles with West Coast women you have coast rides around the water and you can do things here that are priceless. Trying to get a woman’s attention is about being real from the heart and that is what Los Angeles gives you.

Aristocratic Journalism-After you accomplish all your goals with football and your fashion line, what is next for you?

Ike Newton- My brother and I are working on projects to invest in buildings. We are also looking forward to opening a restaurant in Los Angeles. The task of the show is also to show us outside of our day-to-day hustle.

We wish Ike Newton and Robert Stark much success and many blessings on their endeavors. There is nothing like people going full throttle to achieve their goals. We definitely can’t wait to see to “L.A. to L.A.” on Television and the clothing line “Just Living”. Check out the teaser for “L.A. to L.A.” and tell us that you think. 

Keep with on LA to LA and Follow Ike Newton and Robert Stark Jr.

Facebook:LatoLA
Twitter:@La_To_LA

Facebook:Ike Newton
Twitter:@Sirikenewton

Facebook:Robert Stark Jr
Twitter:@9thwswolle

Photo Courtesy of Weather.com

It’s the first official day of fall! Harvest Festivals, Pre-Holiday Sales, Pumpkins, Leaves turning green, orange, and brown; it’s that time of year to enjoy the outdoors and beautiful scenery of the season. I love everything about the fall season, the crisp cool air, fabulous sweaters and jackets, and of course the outdoor activities like horseback riding and picking apples. It’s something about the fall season that is cozy, comfortable, and relaxing. Here are 25 reasons why I love fall.

• Fall Fashion (A classic trench coat, Uggs boots, Beanie hats & Turbans, Corduroy pants, Turtlenecks, Fashion gloves/mittens, Tall boots) Bring out the crock-pots; it’s time for hearty meals like soups, chili & stews that melts your heart.
• Burning leaves
• Raking and Jumping in leaves.
• Long walks and bike rides amongst scenery of falling leaves and beautiful trees.
• The beginning of the good movie season, i.e. Oscar contenders make it to the big screen
• Brunch on a brisk fall day at an outdoor restaurant
• Hot apple cider (try it rum..;)
• Anything with pumpkin in it (Food, Perfume, Candles)
•  It’s the Great Pumpkin Charlie Brown. Will Linus finally see the Great Pumpkin this year?
• Inviting friends over for a pajama jam sleepover with hot cocoa and s’mores.
• NFL/Football Season
• Time to warm up with Snuggies and Flannels
• The World Series
• Corn mazes, pumpkin patches, hay rides
• Baking season, bring on the Apple, Cherry, and Pumpkin pie. Mmmmmm.
• NBA season is right around the corner
•  Melancholic soothing songs of the season, like “Harvest Moon” by Cassandra Wilson, “September” by Earth, Wind, Fire, “Autumn in New York” by Billie Holliday, “Early Autumn” by Woody Herman Orchestra featuring Stan Getz, and “Autumn Leaves” by Nat King Cole. What is your favorite fall music?
• Scary movies with popcorn and that special someone to scoot closer to when Jason comes out the woods)
• Harvest moon
• Autumn’s clear skies and amber rays of sunlight
• Caramel Apples
• The Holiday season is approaching. Family, Friends and Food= Happy Memories
• Sunday Dinners after church that warm up the whole house
• No more fans, The Fall wind has the perfect breeze through an open window
• Halloween Season (Trick or Treating, Costumes, and Candy galore)

What do you love about the fall season?

Photo courtesy of RockTheVote.org

The Democratic and Republican National Conventions are over and the President Obama and Mitt Romney are hitting campaign trails hard. Each candidate will be debating on issues that affecting the United States. One of the most important attributes in election season is getting people registered to vote. Whether you are a Republican, Democratic, or independent if you are not registered to vote; your voice will be heard.

So many people have sacrificed their lives to give others the right to vote. Yet, there are people who choose not to use that right. There are individuals that complain about the issues that are plaguing the U.S and the president that is going the job, but they are not registered to vote. The deadline for voter registration for many states are quickly approaching and time is moving fast.

It is a privilege and a right to vote. There was a time when only white male adult property-owners have the right to vote. In 1965, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., mounted a voter registration drive in Selma, Alabama, to draw national attention to African-American voting rights. The same year, the Voting Rights Act protects the rights of minority voters and eliminates voting barriers such as the literacy test. People have literally fought to gain rights to vote in this country for future generations.

Stay current on the issues that are affecting this country. Follow each candidates stance on how to revive the economy and vote. Make your ancestors and predecessors proud, exercise your right vote. With only 58 day left till the election, it is critical to register to vote. Every election is just as important as the next one and every vote counts. Take advantage of your rights and voice your opinion by registering to vote and hitting the polls in November. You can register to vote at http://bit.ly/P66Fmt. Let’s get out and vote in the masses!!

Photo courtesy of SmoothTeddy.com.

Parents are such an integral part in their children’s lives. Usually women see their father’s as the apple of their eyes or their first love. What happens when fathers are not there to guide their daughter on the male perspective? According the Depletion.blogspot.com, Girls who have little contact with their fathers, especially during adolescence had great difficulties forming lasting relationships with men. Sadly these females either shy away from males’ altogether or become sexually aggressive. Fathers usually set the stage for what type of man their daughter could potentially marry. Without a male figure/role model to set the standards for young women it is difficult to find or know who qualifies as a good father/husband. The father/daughters dialogue, dances and advice are sorely missed when a father is absent.  The Missing Parent multimedia project on aristocraticjournalism.com goes in depth on the effects of father absence on women and illustrates how fathers play a key role in their daughter’s future relationships.

President Obama with daughters Sasha and Malia. Photo courtesy of Lasentinel.net

There have also been many speculations that teenage pregnancy is tied to father absence.  According to the Planned Parenthood Federation of America, the following are among the American teen girls aged 15-19 still become pregnant at a rate far higher than their counterparts in any other industrialized country. “Fatherless homes have a direct impact on a young girls interaction, outlook on a male partner, said K. Yvonne Coleman, a young woman who grew up without her father.  When there is not consistent father or male role model in the home, you can not choose a man based off something you have never seen in the home.”  The Missing Parent multimedia project on aristocraticjournalism.com placed an emphasis on absent fathers reuniting with their daughters, and becoming an integral part of their lives.  Father absence can always become father present. It is never to late to be a father and most little girls love to be a “daddy’s girl”.

Photo courtesy of thequietus.com.

As sparkers were glowing, BBQ was served and everyone celebrated the Independence Day; R&B singer and member of the hip-hop group Odd Future’s Frank Ocean freed his mind on his Tumblr about his first love being a man. In of world where people are still being bullied for their sexuality, Frank Ocean showed unique bravery in expressing his emotions and feelings on an open letter on his tumblr.

Photo courtesy of frankocean.com

In the R&B and Hip-Hop industry, homosexuality is still somewhat shunned and low-key. It would have been easier for Frank Ocean to hide his feelings and put up a “front” like so many nameless entertainers in the industry. Instead, he stepped out the closet and possibly opened the door for many others to face their fears and be free. An inevitable question looms in the minds of skeptics on whether or not Frank Ocean’s revelations will affect his career only time will tell. The music will speak on whether or not his career will elevate to another level. As we have seen over time with many artists, their music and talent will speak for them. Nevertheless, one can only imagine how difficult it was for a young African American R&B/Hip-Hop artist from New Orleans to come out in an industry that is still chauvinist in 2012. In a cutthroat industry, where only the strongest survives; Frank Ocean has strong has the guts and heart to endure. Not to mention the melodically crooners skills to make hit records.

Frank Ocean “Thinking About You”.