From Runway to Editorial Spotlight, Berny Martin Elevates Sustainable Luxury in Photobook’s Feature Starring Luke MacFarlane
October, 2025 – New York City, NY, Acclaimed international fashion designer Berny Martin, founder of LeCatou LLC, has been selected among a distinguished team of stylists to dress actor Luke MacFarlane for an exclusive feature in Photobook Sustainable Fashion Magazine.
This collaboration showcases Martin’s commitment to innovative, sustainable design, while expanding his influence within the global fashion landscape. The Photobook editorial emphasizes environmentally conscious fashion, aligning seamlessly with Martin’s vision of merging artistry with responsibility.
“We are grateful to Photobook’s Editor-in-Chief Alison Hernon, Fashion Stylist Alison Hernon, and Creative Director + Photographer + Producer Mike Ruiz for such a great opportunity to be featured and showcase our fashion,” said Martin.
Known for his timeless tailoring and modern sophistication, Martin continues to redefine luxury fashion through LeCatou LLC. His participation in this Photobook feature marks another milestone in his journey to bring international recognition to diverse, sustainable design.
About Berny Martin / LeCatou LLC
Berny Martin is an international fashion designer and the founder of LeCatou LLC, a fashion house committed to refined craftsmanship and innovative design. With collections showcased worldwide, Martin’s work reflects a global perspective, striking a balance between classic elegance and contemporary trends.
I’m really excited to discuss this project with you, Valentine. As a filmmaker, I’ve experienced my fair share of ups and downs, but this project feels like my “Rocky.”
That’s a bold comparison. Why call it your Rocky?
When Stallone created Rocky, he aimed to show that audiences still craved stories rooted in emotions, the decisions we face, and the power of unconditional love. So Stallone infused the character with his own struggles, philosophy, and personality, making the film deeply relatable and his character authentic. Similarly, how I created Joshua Kent, the protagonist of A Mumbai Love Story, I’m using that same passion as Stallone to approach this project and the characters. Joshua reflects my philosophy and wrestles with the emotional curveballs life can throw at you. Like Rocky, this story has the potential to evolve into something greater as it weaves together crime, action, family, and emotion. A Mumbai Love Story has all the makings of a great franchise.
You’ve taken on many roles as actor, writer, associate producer, stand-up comic, and now the executive producer of A Mumbai Love Story. How did it all begin?
My screenwriting journey began in Cologne, Germany, where I performed stand-up at Johnny Hollywood’s Comedy Nights in clubs. This opened doors to television appearances, the Cologne Comedy Festivals, and a show called Nightwash, hosted by Klaus Jürgen Deuser, eventually making me a favorite in the German comedy scene. Gerhard Schmidt, the CEO of Cologne-Gemini Film Produktion GmbH, gave me my first big break in screenwriting. Since then, I’ve acted in and produced the Amazon Prime TV series Sangre Negra: Black Blood, written the script The Loyal Disorder (based on the true story of a Chicago Outfit enforcer), and I’m preparing to play Samson in Crossbones & Roses.
Do you still speak German?
I’m not as fluent as I used to be since I rarely get the opportunity to use the language anymore. I still understand more than I can speak, though. I used to take pride in speaking with a Cologne accent instead of an American one, but now, whenever I do speak, I can hear my American accent, and I’m not a fan of it. (laughing)
Let’s dive into A Mumbai Love Story. What’s it about?
It’s about a former CIA operative from the United States named Joshua Kent. He now drives a taxi in Mumbai, haunted by the loss of his wife, which left him wracked with guilt and dark thoughts. Driving keeps him busy, but he’s just drifting through life. Everything changes when two things happen: first, he stops the kidnapping of a young girl from a powerful Mumbai family and agrees to testify against the criminals.
Then he meets Aahana, a single mom, and her 11-year-old daughter, Vamika. What starts as Joshua coaching Vamika in basketball turns into a father–daughter bond that gives him a new sense of purpose. But when she’s kidnapped to silence him, that bond is tested. He must dig deep and rely on his old skills to rescue her. If you enjoyed Man on Fire or The Man from Nowhere, this film delivers a similar intensity, but with a heartfelt love story intertwined.
Hasn’t this theme been explored before?
Yes and no, this story focuses more on healing and connection rather than retribution. The bond between Joshua and Vamika demonstrates that children are not born with prejudice; it is something they learn over time with their family.
Additionally, Joshua’s romance with Aahana challenges typical narratives. In Indian cinema, interracial relationships often default to pairings of a white man with an Indian woman or vice versa. However, audiences are eager for more authentic and diverse representations.
Consider “Namaste Wahala,” which revolves around a romance between a Nigerian woman and an Indian man and was number one on Netflix for several weeks. Similarly, Mira Nair’s “Mississippi Masala,” featuring Denzel Washington and Sarita Choudhury, showcases the significant demand for these kinds of stories.
Who else is in the cast?
Robin Dieana. He’s a French actor and model who’s made a name for himself in South Korea. People know him from Abnormal Summit, and he’s acted in films and K-dramas like A Birth, The Impossible Heir, and Red Swan.
I wrote the role specifically with him in mind. In the film, his restaurant functions like Rick’s Café in Casablanca, a hub where key characters and storylines intersect. Robin already has a solid fan base, especially among K-drama audiences, so he’ll help the movie connect with viewers around the globe.
How do you know Robin?
We got introduced through our mutual friend, Noella Jung, a talented South Korean actress and renowned violinist.
And what about production?
I am co-producing with Northern Colors Entertainment in Mumbai, run by Piyush and Ruchir Wasule. They’re passionate about pushing boundaries in Indian cinema, and with A Mumbai Love Story, they want to deliver something heartfelt, thrilling, and fresh. Shooting begins in the summer of 2026.
What’s the budget?
310,000 US
That’s pretty lean. How do you make it work?
Big-name actors can swallow 40–70% of a budget. By working with rising talent and local Mumbai actors, we keep costs down and authenticity high. And let’s be honest: big names don’t guarantee success. Films like Vicky Donor, which marked Ayushmann Khurrana’s debut, had a budget of $453,200 and went on to gross nearly $8 million.. In contrast, Paranormal Activity was produced for just $15,000 but went on to earn $193 million. Meanwhile, Terrifier 2 had a budget of $250,000 and grossed $55 million. The Japanese film One Cut of the Dead had a budget of $25,000 and achieved a worldwide box office total of $31.2 million. These examples demonstrate that if a story resonates with audiences, they will turn out to watch it.
What’s the return structure for investors?
Investors first receive 110% of their initial investment before any profits are distributed. Once that is settled, the remaining profits are divided equally—50% goes to the investors (proportional to their contributions) and 50% is allocated to the producers and distributors.
In the case of multiple investors, each will reclaim 110% of their investment, and the profit distribution will be in proportion to the respective amounts they invested. We’re also open to product placement opportunities
Some people might say film investing is too risky. How do you respond?
Fortune favors the bold, but success requires more than just courage. This project features strong genre appeal, a relatable story, and a carefully managed budget. By focusing on a global narrative and a high-performing genre, we enhance our chances of success.
Thanks for the interview, Terrell. Wishing you great success with your project. What’s the best way for a potential investor to get in touch with you?
Valentine Morara, a native of Kenya, is a storyteller in bloom, balancing her studies in Corporate Communication and Management with her passion for the arts. Her work is driven by a poetic curiosity exploring love, identity, and connection with honesty and depth. Blending professionalism with creativity, Valentine is shaping a path where communication and art meet to inspire and resonate across cultures
Terrific new spot for Mexican food, Leticia’s.Chef Leticia Mitchell has announced a special culinary celebration for Leticia’s Cocina & Cantina locations, along with Letty’s De Leticia downtown, can experience two of her award-winning recipes that showcase the vibrant flavors and traditions of Mexico.
Leticia’s Cocina & Cantina has been serving authentic Mexican cuisine inspired by Chef Leticia Mitchell’s mother’s recipes from Mexico City since 2009. Always using high-quality ingredients and supporting local partners, Leticia’s brings the true flavors of Mexico to Las Vegas.
Guests enjoy a warm, cultural atmosphere perfect for sharing with family and friends, alongside crave-worthy favorites like award-winning QuesaTacos and the over-the-top house made margaritas (of which we all sampled a couple on the media night this week). Dancers in authentic Mexican costumes and lively music to celebrate the opening.
Leticia’s has been featured on Food Network’s Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives and winner of Taco Wars: Best in Chow in 2014. The new location in Boulder Station on Boulder Highway certainly was a welcome addition. A huge restaurant with two rooms, plenty of space for private parties with lots of music, the food is fantastic. We tried the guacamole of course, along with empanadas, and numerous other small bites. Parking is free off the strip, so try them out.
Leticia’s Cocina & Cantina at Boulder Station Casino
New York, NY, October, 2025 — Celebrated international fashion designer Berny Martin proudly participated in theinaugural Runway for Immigrants, an event produced by the New York City Bar Association and sponsored by renowned law firm and attorney Evans Legros. This groundbreaking showcase highlighted the profound impact of immigrant voices in fashion, law, and culture, bringing together thought leaders and innovators from multiple disciplines.
The event’s runway spotlighted Berny Martin’s designs, reflecting his unique vision that bridges cultures, celebrates diversity, and speaks to the immigrant experience. Martin, a Haitian-born designer who has established his brand on an international stage, shared his artistry as part of a broader dialogue on fashion, inclusivity, and the immigrant journey.
A distinguished panel discussion accompanied the runway show, featuring experts who provided insights into the legal, social, and cultural intersections shaping today’s fashion industry:
Christopher Gregorio, Immigration Lawyer, Fragomen, Del Rey, Bernsen & Loewy LLP
Kimberly Jenkins, Scholar and Educator on Fashion and Race
Together, the panelists examined the crucial roles that intellectual property, employment law, immigration law, and cultural scholarship play in empowering immigrant designers and safeguarding creative voices in the global marketplace.
“This event not only honored the creative spirit of immigrant designers but also underscored the importance of legal advocacy and education in advancing equity within the fashion industry,” said Evans Legros, event producer and attorney.
Berny Martin’s participation underscored his ongoing commitment to uplifting diverse perspectives through fashion and reaffirmed the power of design as a universal language of resilience, identity, and innovation.
About Berny Martin and LeCatou LLC
Berny Martin is an internationally recognized fashion designer and founder & CEO of LeCatou LLC, a luxury menswear and womenswear brand known for its sophistication, cultural fusion, and timeless elegance. With showcases in global fashion weeks and recognition for his commitment to diversity, Martin continues to shape the narrative of immigrant influence in the fashion industry.
(Atlanta, GA – 10/02/2025 Two-time GRAMMY-nominated spoken word artist, author, and global performer Queen Sheba is emerging as one of the most potent and multifaceted voices in contemporary arts and culture. With a career that bridges poetry, music, social commentary, and live performance, she continues to shape the national narrative around spoken word as both an art form and a movement.
Best known for her electrifying stage presence and lyrical command, Queen Sheba has earned two consecutive GRAMMY nominations in the Best Spoken Word Poetry Album category. This milestone places her among the most visible and influential artists in the field. Her work spans albums, books, international touring, and the acclaimed performance platform she founded, Poetry vs. Hip-Hop®, now in its 10th year.
In February 2025, Queen Sheba was honored to serve as a presenter at the Grammy Awards.
“I don’t create art to be heard simply, I create it to shift something,” says Queen Sheba. “Spoken word is not just performance. It’s preservation. It’s documentation. It’s liberation in real time.”
A TEDx speaker and widely published author, Queen Sheba has toured across the United States, Europe, Canada, and Africa, sharing stages with icons in music, poetry, and activism. She has been featured at major festivals, universities, cultural institutions, and venues that span literary, musical, and social justice communities.
With growing momentum and expanding reach, Queen Sheba is increasingly sought after for interviews, features, collaborations, and appearances that engage audiences in conversations about art, identity, culture, and the power of voice.
Queen Sheba is a Two-Time GRAMMY-Nominated Spoken Word Artist, author, performer, TEDx speaker, and founder of Poetry vs. Hip-Hop®. Her work has been featured on international stages and in national media, and she continues to break ground as a leading figure in contemporary spoken word and performance poetry.
A fantastic new Cantonese restaurant has opened at the JW Marriott in Summerlin. Situated in the back of the casino on let’s say “restaurant row”, Nom Wah with it’s 12-seat-only counter is the new and most fantastic place to try. I think it must be the greatest Asian food I have every had, and I have visited Hong Kong, Tokyo, and Singapore. Every dish we tried was exquisite!
Coming from a location in New York, Wilson Tang decided to branch out in Las Vegas. After being seated and meeting Mr. Tang, we started with Pork Soup Dumplings, and pork and shrimp dumplings. There were six others to choose from but we moved on to the next dish.
Everything is cooked right in front of you and steamed in the typical Oriental bamboo bowls. They feature stuffed Scallion pancakes, spring rolls and something I have never seen before, Turnip Cakes. They taste exactly like fish which was a huge surprise! Egg fried rice, wonton noodle soup, Crispy Chicken buns, Sweet Chili tofu or Peking duck buns were marvelous. Plenty of teas and beverages to pick from.
Small but surprisingly fabulous, this is an absolute must try! From 4 p.m. to midnight, we will be back soon. Absolutely great drinks—they have concocted their own cocktails. We had the Mahjong Spritz with Elderflower liqueur, and sparkling wine.
A healthy smile is one of the first things people notice, but accidents can quickly compromise it. Whether it’s a sports injury, a fall, or an unexpected bite, dental accidents can be painful, alarming, and sometimes costly. Knowing what common accidents can affect your teeth and how to respond can help preserve your smile and prevent long-term damage.
Chipped or Broken Teeth
One of the most common dental injuries is a chipped or broken tooth. This often happens during contact sports, falls, or biting down on hard objects. A chipped tooth may cause sharp edges that irritate your tongue or cheeks, while a more severe break can expose the inner layers of the tooth, leading to sensitivity or infection. If this happens, rinse your mouth with warm water and apply a cold compress to reduce swelling. Avoid chewing on the affected side and contact an emergency dentist immediately for professional care.
Knocked-Out Teeth
Losing a tooth completely, especially due to a sports injury or accident, can be distressing. Time is critical in these cases. If the tooth is permanent, try to handle it by the crown (the visible part) and avoid touching the root. Rinse it gently with water if it’s dirty, and attempt to place it back in its socket. If that isn’t possible, store it in milk or a saline solution and see an emergency dentist within 30 minutes to an hour. Quick action can sometimes save the tooth.
Cracked Teeth
Cracks in teeth can result from trauma, teeth grinding, or biting down on hard foods. While some cracks may be superficial, others extend deeper and compromise the tooth’s structure. Symptoms can include pain when chewing, sensitivity to temperature, or visible lines in the tooth. A dentist can assess the damage and recommend treatments like bonding, crowns, or root canals, depending on the severity.
Soft Tissue Injuries
Accidents can also affect your gums, lips, and tongue. Cuts, punctures, and bruises in the mouth can be painful and may lead to infection if untreated. Rinse your mouth with mild salt water to keep the area clean and apply a cold compress to reduce swelling. Severe injuries that involve heavy bleeding or deep cuts should be evaluated promptly by a dental professional.
Dental Emergencies from Sports and Recreational Activities
Sports-related accidents are a major cause of dental injuries. Wearing protective gear like mouthguards can prevent many of these incidents. Even with precautions, accidents can happen, making it important to know where to find emergency dental care. Quick intervention can prevent further damage and relieve pain efficiently.
Accidents from Daily Activities
It’s not just sports that pose a risk. Slips in the bathroom, kitchen mishaps, or even accidents while eating can result in dental injuries. Being mindful of your environment and taking precautions can reduce the risk of damaging your teeth or gums.
Knowing how to respond to these situations can make a significant difference in the outcome. In all cases, prompt attention from a dentist can preserve your teeth, prevent complications, and help you maintain a healthy, confident smile. Accidents are sometimes unavoidable, but being prepared ensures that your smile remains protected.
Not long ago, I confronted the men. In my editorial originally entitled “The Fall of Adam” now known as “When Men Hide, The World Burns” I held up a mirror and demanded they stop hiding, stop blaming, stop abdicating their place. I called them back to their post. And now, Eve, I turn to you. Not to wound, but to heal. Not to condemn, but to invite.
I understand why you retreat. I know why your heart is guarded. Large majority of us men in generations past have failed families. Too many were handed examples of men who were absent, weak, distracted, or abusive. And when those are the first men a woman knows, it leaves an imprint. Distrust becomes a reflex. Avoidance becomes armor. And the soul learns how to live alone even in a crowd of people, hobbies, and work.
Dr. Jordan Peterson often points out that “when women grow up without strong, positive male role models…whether fathers, mentors, or other figures…they may not have a clear template for what a healthy, trustworthy, and principled man looks like. As a result, when they finally meet a man who genuinely embodies those qualities…someone who is strong, respectful, and capable of responsible leadership…it can feel unfamiliar or even a bit disorienting to them.” Peterson’s view is thatthis isn’t a flaw in women, but rather a reflection of how important good male role models are for everyone. In other words, encountering a truly decent man can be a transformative but initially confusing experience if they haven’t seen that kind of masculinity before. It’s essentially about the power of positive examples and how they shape our expectations and comfort levels.
I don’t fault you for that. I see you. I respect the survival instinct. But I also need you to consider this: the walls that you feel protect also imprison. Avoidance may feel safe, but it is a thief. It spares you heartbreaks, but it starves you of healing. And if every door stays closed, how will love ever enter? How will you ever be seen, truly seen, and unconditionally cherished?
Suspicion will keep out liars, yes … but it will also keep out the one man who would have stayed. A closed heart cannot be betrayed, but it also cannot be truly treasured in depth.
Men are rising. I know because I’ve called them. I’ve demanded they grow responsible, mature, disciplined. To confront their emotions, govern their hearts, and stop pointing fingers like our fathers did and our fathers’ fathers. And though many still refuse, some have listened. Some are rising. Some are becoming the kind of men worth your trust. I have received great feedback from them in my last editorial. They get it and they are thankful.
So, what does such a man look like?
He is self-aware: he knows his weaknesses and works on them.
He is responsible: he owns his failures, he does not hide.
He is disciplined: he governs his emotions and his appetites.
He is protective: not controlling, but creating safety.
He is honorable: respecting women, children, and himself.
He is principled: rooted in values greater than his ego.
Yes, these men exist. Not flawless, but faithful. Not perfect, but progressing. They are the kind of men who build rather than destroy. And when you meet such a man, will you recognize him? Or will distrust blind you into thinking his strength is control, his boundaries manipulation, his pursuit somehow toxic? Some women confuse boundaries with control, and strength with manipulation ……. but discernment is not domination. When a man refuses to drift, his focus is not toxicity; it is leadership. Healthy masculinity is not a threat to you …… it is a covering. It is not a cage …… it is a compass. It does not suffocate your identity … it creates space for it to flourish…
And what do these men seek in return? Not perfection. Not pretense. But truth.
They seek women who respect them …. because respect fuels a man’s soul.
They seek honest vulnerability …. because they cannot build with deception.
They seek grace ….. because they too are flawed.
They seek loyalty ….. because without it, no kingdom stands.
They seek women who inspire …. not by competing, but by complementing.
They seek women who nurture life ……. because a home must be built, not just lived in.
They seek women who are ….. in pursuit of improving themselves.
And here, Eve, is where your power lies.
Do you not see the unbelievable influence you possess? The divine intoxicating power within you? A single look from you …. when it is real, when it is unguarded …… can pierce a man’s armor and let him see your bare soul, almost as an offering. A handful of words spoken from your lips can ignite in him a fire no battlefield could quench.
“I respect you. I believe in you. I trust your heart. I see you. I want you. I thank you for what you do. I know your struggles, and I believe in you. The children adore you. We are proud of you.”
Do you not see what those words do? What an unguarded true look from your soul can do? A man will go to war on that fuel. He will endure hardship, conquer weakness, fight for legacy, and bleed for love. That is what we are hardwired for.It is a call of destiny.Our purpose.Those words …… sincere, simple, but true …… can trigger growth in a man in ways I am afraid only few modern women now realize. This, is the unbelievable influence you forfeit by staying closed. Even strength has boundaries. Patience and loyalty are noble, but they are not endless. What is steadfast must also be respected, for when it is ignored too long, it withdraws … not in anger, but in order and dignity. And once it is gone, it rarely returns.
Because communication is the foundation that makes a bond flourish. Without it, even love that is deep and true cannot survive. With it, trust grows, dignity is preserved, and two lives move forward together instead of drifting apart.
Try it, and see.
The truth is, good men are not afraid of strong women. Good men are not hindered by strong women … they just refuse to build with “closed” women. Women who punish themselves or tomorrow’s man for yesterday’s hurt. Women who would rather retreatbehind suspicion than risk being known.
Eve, I ask you …… will you keep retreating behind walls of silent invulnerable solitude? Will you keep letting the failures of broken men dictate how you receive good men? Or will you be brave enough to trust again …… slowly, wisely, but truly?
Because partnership cannot be forged by one side alone. Masculinity at its best protects, provides, and honors. Femininity at its best inspires, ignites, and nurtures. Together they heal what is broken. Together they restore what Adam and Eve lost in the garden.
Partnership is not theory … it is motion. It is a ride. Picture it: the motorcycle is the marriage. The man grips the handlebars, steady through the curves, leaning into the bends, guiding through the valleys and climbing the ridges. His hands bear the responsibility to keep the ride on course.
But the woman’s arms, wrapped tight around his waist, speak louder than words. They say: “I trust you. I love you. I am with you. I will die with you if I must. I love this ride with you.”
That is the covenant. That is the bond. Not perfection, not ease, not control …… but mutual trust and vulnerability. Two lives moving as one through the unknown roads ahead.
Rise, Eve. Don’t just sit on the bike with your arms folded, waiting for a crash. Wrap your arms around the man who has chosen to ride with you, and whisper the words that give him courage for the road: “I see you. I respect you. I trust you. I’m with you.”
Because when a man rides with such a woman behind him, there is no road too dangerous, no valley too deep, no storm too fierce. He will ride it all, and he will ride it with joy.
But if you keep shutting the door, you may never know what could have been built on the other side.
I speak this with compassion, not bitterness. I have scars of my own. I’ve made mistakes, too many times, and I’ve carried the pain of women who ran when trust was required. I know what it is to be misunderstood, mislabeled, misjudged. And perhaps you know that, too. Perhaps that’s why this burns a little as you read.
Tomorrow does not have to look like yesterday. A good man will not be perfect, but he will be faithful. He will not control you, but he will lead. And his leadership, if you dare to trust it, will not diminish you. It will elevate you.
So rise, Eve. Rise not in suspicion, but in trust. Rise not in avoidance, but in courage. Rise not in bitterness, but in love.
For the greatest strength a woman can show is not in shutting men out… but in opening wisely to the right one.
“The heart of her husband safely trusts her, and he will have no lack of gain.” — Proverbs 31:11
Fashion has always been more than fabric stitched into garments; it is a story, an identity, and innovation woven together. Few designers embody this truth more fully than Berny Martin, the Haitian-American visionary behind LeCatou and founder of Midwest Fashion Week. With designs that blend bold creativity, impeccable tailoring, and global inspiration, Martin has carved a unique space in the fashion world, creating collections for both women and men that celebrate individuality.
Born in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, and raised in Brooklyn, New York, Martin’s path to fashion was anything but linear. He initially studied computer engineering, a field that demanded precision and problem-solving skills he would later translate seamlessly into the technical discipline of tailoring. Drawn to style and aesthetics, Martin transitioned from engineering into design, determined to redefine what it meant to create clothing in America’s heartland.
By launching LeCatou, a brand rooted in craftsmanship and self-expression, and establishing Midwest Fashion Week, Martin challenged the idea that high fashion must be confined to New York, Paris, or Milan. Instead, he positioned the Midwest as a hub of creativity, giving designers and clients outside the traditional fashion capitals a platform to shine.
What sets Martin apart is his ability to design fluidly across gender. For women, his collections emphasize elegance and boldness, figure-flattering silhouettes, vibrant textures, and details that radiate sophistication. For men, he elevates traditional tailoring with expressive flourishes: unexpected colors, textured fabrics, and cuts that move beyond mere functionality into artistry.
This willingness to blur boundaries challenges the old rules of fashion. Martin doesn’t simply design clothes; he designs confidence. His pieces invite both women and men to embrace self-expression unapologetically, redefining our perspective on gender in fashion.
Martin’s creativity is rooted in his observant eye. Whether walking through a marketplace abroad, watching the rhythm of a busy street, or even repurposing newspapers into patterns during a blackout in Zimbabwe, he finds inspiration in both extraordinary and ordinary moments. His ability to transform daily life into wearable art reflects a philosophy that fashion should not be about following trends, but about telling personal stories.
“LeCatou,” he explains, “is not about conforming to passing fashion. It’s about creating an authentic voice through style.”
At the heart of Martin’s innovation is a commitment to craftsmanship. As a custom tailor, he designs with precision, ensuring each piece reflects not just a vision but also the unique needs of the wearer—this blend of artistry and technical skill results in garments that are as practical as they are breathtaking.
For Martin, tailoring is not merely a trade; it is a dialogue between designer and client, fabric and body, art and function.
Through Midwest Fashion Week, Martin expanded his influence beyond his own collections. The event has become a stage for emerging designers, models, and stylists, bringing visibility to creatives who might otherwise remain unseen in the global fashion landscape. In doing so, he has proven that innovation is not tied to geography but to imagination and courage.
Martin’s journey also resonates with immigrant and multicultural communities, as his Haitian heritage and international travels continually infuse his work with diverse perspectives. His career is proof that fashion, at its best, transcends borders and unites people through shared aesthetics and values.
As fashion evolves in an era increasingly focused on inclusivity and sustainability, Berny Martin stands poised to continue shaping the conversation. His dedication to authenticity and boundary-breaking design ensures that his collections will remain both timely and timeless.
In the end, Martin’s legacy is not only in the garments he creates, but also in the doors he opens for designers, clients, and communities often overlooked by mainstream fashion. He shows us that clothing can be more than style; it can be a statement of resilience, innovation, and identity.
I had the privilege of sitting down with the gifted musician, songwriter, and performer Ronnie McNeir to talk about his extraordinary journey in music. Our conversation moved from his humble beginnings in Pontiac, Michigan, to his career as a solo artist, his collaborations with legendary performers, and his celebrated role as a member of the Four Tops. What stood out most was Ronnie’s humility, his deep love for the craft, and his unwavering commitment to sharing a message of peace and unity through music.
Few voices in R&B carry the same blend of elegance, warmth, and storytelling as Ronnie McNeir. A gifted singer, songwriter, and keyboardist, McNeir’s career spans decades of solo success, collaborations with musical icons, and, most famously, his tenure with one of Motown’s greatest groups.
McNeir’s story begins in Camden, Alabama. His family, seeking a better life, migrated north to Pontiac, Michigan, where his father found steady work in the auto industry. Pontiac would become both the backdrop and the foundation for McNeir’s musical journey. It was there that his love for gospel, soul, and the irresistible Motown sound shaped him into the artist he is today. By his teenage years, McNeir was already turning heads with his prodigious piano skills and a velvety voice that seemed destined for the stage.
Reflecting on his childhood, McNeir shared, “We had love, music, and faith. That was enough to carry me through and keep me dreaming.”
In the early 1970s, McNeir released his self-titled debut album on RCA Records, establishing himself as a rising star. His unique blend of soul, jazz, and R&B not only drew critical acclaim but also attracted a loyal following. More albums followed, each infused with McNeir’s distinctive musicianship and heartfelt delivery.
His artistry went far beyond vocals. As a songwriter and keyboardist, McNeir collaborated with some of the most iconic artists of his era. He worked with the legendary Bobby Womack, the unforgettable Teena Marie, Motown great Smokey Robinson, powerhouse vocalist Anita Baker, the incomparable Gladys Knight, and funk visionary George Clinton.
McNeir explained his approach to collaboration: “Each artist had their own magic. My job was never to overshadow but to add something that fit, like another color on the canvas. That’s the joy of music, you create together.”
In 2001, a major transition took place for the legendary Four Tops. When Levi Stubbs, the iconic lead voice of the group, retired due to illness, it marked the end of an era. To carry the torch forward, Theo Peoples, formerly of The Temptations, stepped in as the new lead singer. It was during this pivotal moment that I also joined the Four Tops, becoming part of a legacy that had already touched the world for decades. Together, we worked to honor Levi’s towering contributions while bringing fresh energy to the music, ensuring that the Four Tops continued to captivate audiences everywhere.
“I wasn’t trying to replace anybody,” McNeir recalled. “The Four Tops are a brotherhood. I just wanted to honor the legacy and bring my heart to the music.”
Since then, McNeir has traveled the world with the Four Tops, bringing their timeless hits, like Reach Out (I’ll Be There) and Baby I Need Your Loving, to both devoted fans and a brand-new generation. His contributions as a vocalist have ensured the group’s continued vibrancy, keeping their legacy alive while adding fresh dimensions to their sound.
Beyond the stage, McNeir has used his platform to promote messages of unity. His “Peace on Earth and Goodwill to Mankind” campaign reflects not only his artistic spirit but also his personal philosophy.
“The world can be divided, but music heals,” he said. “If one song can make someone feel hope, then I’ve done my part.”
Even with a demanding tour schedule, McNeir prioritizes his health and balance. He stays fit by playing golf, a pastime that keeps his energy sharp for the stage. His youthful appearance is a testament to that discipline, despite the long hours and travel required to perform for sold-out audiences across the country.
Most recently, McNeir wrapped a series of successful California shows before heading to Texas, continuing to inspire both lifelong fans and younger listeners discovering the Motown sound for the first time.
“What amazes me is seeing young people in the audience singing every word,” McNeir said with a smile. “It shows that good music never dies, it just finds new ears.”
Ronnie McNeir’s journey, from Pontiac, Michigan, to stages around the globe, captures the very essence of the American soul music story. His career is not only about hits and accolades but about endurance, artistry, and service to the music itself.
As he continues to tour with the Four Tops, McNeir remains a humble servant of the craft he loves. “I never forget where I came from, and I never take for granted where music has taken me,” he said. “It’s a blessing to be here still, doing what I love, and sharing it with the world.”
McNeir proudly mentions that an announcement will be forthcoming soon regarding a project dear to his heart, which will certainly validate his commitment to world peace.
alongside crave-worthy favorites like award-winning QuesaTacos and the over-the-top house made margaritas (of which we all sampled a couple on the media night this week). Dancers in authentic Mexican costumes and lively music to celebrate the opening.
