The insider

For 19 consecutive Black History Months, Ebony has produced a Black History/Black Love issue, focusing on memorable moments and personalities of the past while, at the same time, highlighting the special relationship between Black men and Black women.

Those February issues have proven to be among our most popular publications. And we continue that long-running tradition this year with new focus on Black History and Black Love. Each year, one of the most talked-about and most anticipated articles is the "10 Hottest Couples, primarily celebrities who are balancing stardom and romance in the spotlight. As it has been in the past, the collection of romantics includes big-name twosomes like Janet Jackson and Jermaine Dupri, Nelly and Ashanti, and Bow Wow and Clara.

But it doesn't stop there. Another example of Black love is exhibited in the Top Weddings of 2005, including some fabulously memorable unions that took place in such scenic locales as Zimbabwe, Africa, and Maul. Some of the top personalities saying "I do" included Tyson Chandler of the Chicago Bulls, actress Sheryl Lee Ralph, women's basketball star Lisa Leslie and Illinois Senate President Emil Jones.

Additionally, in this month when lovers recognize and celebrate Valentine's Day, we offer tips to some and reminders to others in the article, "Rx For Romance: Surefire Steps To Keep The Romantic Fires Burning." The list of suggestions from top relationship experts are relatively simple, with the common denominator being spending quality time with your significant other. If you follow these tips, they say, you will be practically assured of experiencing some memorable and romantic days and nights.

In one part of our focus on Black History, the spotlight again shines on the legendary dancer and choreographer Katherine Dunham, who, at 96, is still dancing to her own tune. She continues to be outspoken on current affairs and still gives pointers to young dancers who want to employ the internationally recognized "Dunham technique."

Some of the thousands of youngsters she is influencing could eventually become leaders themselves, like the "30 leaders Under 30" who comprise EBONY'S selections this year--a group that includes ministers, journalists, musicians, attorneys and motivators. For them, thanks to their credentials, it appears that the sky is the limit.

There is much to celebrate, but during this period when there is renewed focus on Black love, don't overlook the importance of celebrating our rich history.

Happy Valentine's Day!

COPYRIGHT 2006 Johnson Publishing Co.
COPYRIGHT 2008 Gale, Cengage Learning