Inside this issue you will find interviews with: twin sisters Stacy and Tracy Christopher-Smith joint owners of Sweet Things a gourmet candy shop; the event planning ladies of VI Shades Of Chocolate; and Shyan CEO of Paid 4 Entertainment.

Educational articles on how to manage your finances with Lizette Llanos of Strategic Solutions Network Inc; and the grassroots activism of the VI Improvement Association.
Read inspirational poetry by Jehu Nisbett of the VI Callaloo Poets as well as the accomplishments of Jahsan Page Senior Airman of the US Airforce, Karen M.
Carty Asistant Sports Information Director at Norforlk State University, and Tajama Abraham-Ngongba Head Coach of the women's basketball team at Radford University.

Get to know new artists like Jahdesta and Cruz Rock plus more establish artists such as Sistah Joyce.
Also our Sound Check Part II has interviews with Mac 10, Infinity Sounds, Unleaded Soundz, DJ Commodore, and Jah Lion Sound.

View coverage of the 1st Annual VI Summer Splash, the 2nd Annual VI Idol competiton, Capital Productions BVI Car Show, Sunstrok Promotions Rock City in Twin City, and Energy Productions St.
John Bike Show.

Photo editorials include CORE's Fashion section featuring VI Vixen model Shalimar Hodge and our Drop The Top Bad Ride Spotlight.

We at CORE recently celebrated our first year of service to the people of the Virgin Islands.
Simultaneously, we received an award from the Small Business Development Center: Nascent Small Business of the Year for 2008; an honor we are determined to surpass in the future.

To my colleagues working so diligently to produce such a well put together product; thank you. Words cannot express my gratitude for the acceptance CORE Magazine has received locally, nationally, and internationally.

"Wait man, ah you ain't see nuttin' yet!" We will keep bringing you the newest, freshest, and most sought after people, entertainment, business moves, fashion, and updates from the entire Virgin Islands. This summer we had a lot in regards to quality entertainment, I hope you enjoyed the fabulous beach parties, boat rides, and jams.
Among the events, the paramount was the first annual VI Summer Splash that took place on St.
Thomas the 1^st & 2^nd of August; this is the first of many great summertime experiences here in the Virgin Islands where we will be able to see our favorite local artists performing on a grand stage with some of the best international artists.
In addition, the second VI Idol took place, displaying our islands' best talent; this year's VI Idol brought even more quality artists in the limelight.

Our features for this issue are the wonderful VI Queens of Calypso: the powerful vocalists that add the sweet finesse and distinct quality to our various local bands.
"We want to big up the females who doing well! So you know this package is wrapped tight!" We are going to introduce you to the lovely personalities behind the amazing voices of your favorite female performers.
In addition, the big Soundz Check part two, everyone has been waiting for...We hope you enjoy.  I am always open to opinions, concerns, and shout outs.
Just link me at supah@coremagazine.vi

A heartfelt thank you goes out to our readers, supporters, advertisers and partners for trusting and believing in CORE's vision.

This issue is brought to you in part by: Essentric Shoe Boutique, Tutu Park Mall, Adlah "Foncie" Donastorg for Senate, University of the Virgin Islands, Paid 4 Systems & Rentals, 2nd VI Idol Competion, the new Island Heat III compilation CD, the new Jah Lion Sound mixtape Ron Di Gully Side, 3J's Adult Toy Box, My Day Discount, Mellow Moods Cafe, Karibbean Kids VI, Team Tropical Styles, Personalize It! Your Way, Ital Cuisine, ISW Studios, Street King Media, King of the VI PGM Mixtape vol.
30, USVI Boxing, Different Vibes Towing, and Natural Flow Plumbing.