LOS ANGELES
American Minority People Succeeding
Alexey
AMPS MAGAZINE
Rapper & Drummer
LOS ANGELES EDITION
Music Spotlights
Turning Hobbies Into Money
Music Producer Watch Inspiring Business Leaders
The Prison System UFO’s
Volume 1, Issue 1
Page 1 www.cali.ampsmagazine.com
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VOLUME 1, ISSUE 1
Lil Drummer Girl - Alexey
THE PRISON SYSTEM PG 9 The Forgotten Third Pillar
Top Music Producer PG 14 Trevor Lawrence Jr.
Monetizing Hobbies PG 18 The Gonzo Family
Married to PTSD PG 20 A Wife’s Story
What Ever Happened To PG 24 The Band Slave
Shots of Los Angeles by Marshon
TABLE OF CONTENTS
MUSIC SPOTLIGHT PG 6
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Words from the Owner & Publisher Being born and raised in Los Angeles has given me a unique love and respect for all cultures, all races…all people. Unfortunately, for many Americans that love hasn’t always been reciprocated. Our magazine wants to celebrate positive stories that embrace everyone. We want to share stories about you, told by you. By sharing all perspectives, we hope to bring understanding and with undestanding respect. Please submit stories from your perspective for editorial consideration to: chrystal@ampsmagazine.com
The Team Executive VP & Sr. Editor Kent O’Jon Sr. Editor / Public Relations Kenya Rivers Photographer Marshon Gonzo
Photo By Marshon Gonzo
AMPS Los Angeles, California is a franchise of AMPS Magazine, a national entity, with headquarters in Orlando, Florida. This magazine is published bi-monthly. AMPS MAGAZINE CORPORATE Orlando, Florida 33837 317-426-7790
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LIL DRUMMER GIRL
Born Jan. 12, 2003, Alexey is a drummer girl with a love for performing and rocking the stage. Her journey began when she competed in a local drum competition and won first place at the age of seven, just after six months of learning how to play drums. Since then, Alexey performed on stage with Patti LaBelle and Stevie Wonder when she was just eight years old, later branching off to guest for more than fifty bands of all styles; classic rock, heavy metal, modern pop, hiphop, jazz, and blues, around the States and in the Philippines - ranging from bars, pubs, theaters, TV studios, to anime conventions, festivals, and stadiums. At eight years old, she had also recorded on her first single feature with Trevor Lawrence, later recording several EPs and albums with several bands and artists. At the age of ten, Alexey was crowned the first under eighteen champion of the international “Hit Like a Girl” female drummer competition, as well as being the first champion of the KISS Drum off on KISS Kruise 3. “A LIFETIME OF EXPERIENCE” Some of her biggest experiences include playing drums for and modeling in Ellen Degeneres’ girl empowerment campaign and clothing line with Gap Kids, playing on Tommy Lee’s 360 Rollercoaster Drumset during the Mötley Crüe and KISS Soundcheck, touring in the Philippines with Arnel Pineda of Journey, performing at the Halftime show for the LA Clippers & Golden State Warriors game at the Staples Center, and other gigs including playing at the music festival Rocklahoma, the Tennis U.S. Open’s Arthur Ashe Kid’s Day 2017, two-year performances at NASCAR, the Fresno Grizzlies and 49ers game at the Cashman Field, and Pictured with Singer Patti LaBellle the 2018 Bonzo Bash. She’s a regular at many local venues including the Whisky A Go Go, the Yost Theater, at the House of Blues - just to name a few. Alexey has jammed with drum legends Nick Menza of Megadeth, Thomas Lang, Derek Roddy, and Thomas Pridgen - in addition to receiving a personal video message from Neil Peart of Rush. She has also made big drumming features in commercials for Apple’s iPhone X Release, Disney’s “Dream Big Princess,” and Nickelodeon’s “That’s Me” campaign, as well as in Walk The Moon’s “Work This Body” music video, along with TV performances such as the TODAY Show, Good Day New York, Fox 5 Las Vegas, appearances on Philippine News Channels including Balitang America, Umagang Kay Ganda, guesting as a drummer on Nickelodeon’s America’s Most Musical Family, and more; on top of having drum covers on YouTube with over one million views. Alexey also has several other passions including drawing comics, painting oil portraits, acting, and songwriting. DID YOU KNOW? Not only is Alexey all about music, but she’s passionate about drawing manga and painting too. Ever since becoming homeschooled at the age of 10 years old, Alexey often kept busy by reading comics, novels, and eventually began drawing her own visual ideas. She branched out Page 6
being picked up by and working alongside Grammy-nominated SONY Producer Bruce “AUTOMATIC” Vanderveer. She followed up with another single “ICING” in April 2021, as well as the feature “DOWN BELOW” for Marvel’s Steve Englehart and his collaborated album with InRage Entertainment, “PRISM CLUB - Songs Inspired by the Creator of Shang-Chi.” As an aspiring artist and musician, Alexey wants to inspire generations to dream big and to live their visions through the power of art and music. No matter how different or odd one’s ideas may be, it is always a new vision that can change the world. With a new direction and new imagination, Alexey wants to reveal a new side of herself in her upcoming projects and on her everlasting journey. to painting portraits, bags, and murals. She has taken over dozens of commissions for graphic design, original paintings, album covers, animation jobs, painting her clothes and bags, the walls of her room, and even designing her own merchandise. All visual presentation is solely created by Alexey. Including this website and all social media presentation. IG (@tostibuns) Alexey has been featured in TV sizzle reels, short films, along with commercials for Chobani Yogurt. Drawing digital comics was a hobby of hers since the age of eleven, to which she began to take on animation jobs, commissions, and even featuring original paintings in galleries. In 2020 - ALEXEY released her debut single “COWORKERS” as a songwriter/ rapper after
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The Forgotten Third Pillar of the American Society By Benjamin Adams
... [the Prison System]
The first two pillars of our American society are easily answered and are unquestionably the private sector and our system of government. Today, ordinary American citizens wake up every day, prepare to go to work, provide for their children, their families and their homes or they’re in the public atmosphere of affecting the rules and regulations that govern our society. Rules and regulations that are held accountable by the people but many of us are ignorant and uneducated to the system, yet we are split apart as a nation when it is time to vote for the leader that sets the agenda for the rules and regulations that we know nothing about. Conversely, there is a third pillar to our American society. It has a deep-rooted history in slavery, the Civil War and the continued struggle for equal rights for all. It is an ugly, dark and hidden part of American society that many of us blatantly ignore. The criminal justice system being the third pillar has surfaced to the degree that it can no longer be ignored. Local, state and federal government officials are running prisons for profits and conducting predatory and oppressive burdens on prisoners and their families, i.e. GTL, Connect Network and J-Pay. Warehousing our citizens for profit. Indiscriminately excessive sentencing for low level misdemeanor and non-violent offenses. Practices, customs and systematic racism, abuses of power, assaults on prisoners, wrongful executions of innocent prisoners and corruption floods the Department of Corrections. The corruption is imbedded throughout the fiber of the Department from the lowest level correctional officer all the way up to the Governor’s office where the corruption is continuousPage 10
ly reaffirmed. The evidence is overwhelming and the rate at which black/African American males are being incarcerated. The mass incarceration of black, brown and poor whites by the individual states, without just cause, is criminal in and of itself. For example, take my home state of Indiana which has a total state population of approximately 6.8 million people. According to the Prison Policy Initiative, Indiana locks up a higher percentage of its people than any democracy on earth. They incarcerate 765 per 100,000 of its people. Out of that 6.8 million, approximately 4.2% are black males. Whites make up about 89% of the State’s total
population. There are about 47,000 people incarcerated in Indiana. Of these, black people are incarcerated at a much higher rate. Think about that merely 4% of the State’s population constitutes almost half of its incarcerated population. And that segment of the population just coincidentally happens to be Black/African American. But even the reader of this article may have very little concern about this statistical crisis. However, if the races were reversed and white males made up 4.2% of the State’s population and they were being incarcerated at the same rate, there would be a national if not global crisis. Even animals if were relatively experiencing similar treatment there would be outrage from multiple groups and segments of society. However, here is the data for a mass incarceration crisis for black and African American males, but what is absent, is the outrage. Where is the outrage?
the Black/African American male in the American society is so that an unarmed black man or even child can be shot and murdered in broad daylight, on video, impermissibly by a police officer and that officer would not even lose pay while he is being investigated and ultimately cleared of all wrongdoing without even having a court appearance. And on the other hand, I have a friend who is serving a life sentence in the federal system for a non-violent offense while the Court is requiring him to beg for their mercy, which they define as “extraordinary and compelling reasons.” I can articulate many compelling reasons why a Black/ African man should not be incarcerated for life for a non-violence offense. Let’s begin with the fact that prisons were originally created for violent criminals who injured persons, took life or damaged property. After all these are the only guaranteed protections that a citizen has under the United States Constitution’s Due Process
Black/African American males who makes up only 4.2% of the entire State’s population make up almost half of the people that they have adjudicated as being incapable of functioning in society. This pattern of systemic oppression has been rooted into our society since its inception. The United States Supreme Court decision in Dred Scott v Sandford, where Chief Justice Roger B. Taney held writing for the majority 7-2 Court, that the Missouri Compromise was null and void. Any person of African descent was deemed property and according to the Chief Justice could never be a citizen of the United States. But he did not stop there. In his lengthy opinion, he enlightened us with his reminder of how the white race is the dominate one and how the red man is a savage race, but still recognized as a foreign government on their own land. Conversely, the African descendance were determined to be, again according to the Chief Justice incapable of coexisting in Clause. Socially, I would say that the late Chief the white males’ social, economical and political Justice would be smiling at the social status of system and therefore, does not enjoy the equal Black/African Americans today. rights as a citizen of the United States. Second, the economic status of the Black/African Let us analyze the three pillars of the Chief Jus- in America is more of a mathematical equation tices’ American society. First, the social status of that cannot be refuted by any credible or reliable Continued on Page 12
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evidence. All one must do is pick up any runof-the mill Almanac and discover that Black/ African American males are last in every economical statistical category that exists. Dead last. Thirdly, the political status of the Black/African American male is alarming for multiple reasons. Many, young, Black/African American males would argue whether he believes that he is even a citizen or not. Imagine the look on the late Chief Justices’ face when hearing this dilemma. Moreover, like my home state of Indiana, a very overwhelmingly conservative state, 4.2% of the state’s population is not nearly enough to affect elections or public policy. Unless it’s a swing state in a very contested election the “black male vote” has its challenges because of the lack of numbers and participation. Particularly, the number of eligible voters that for whatever reason refuses to exercise their voice. The result is that as currently is, the Black/African American male has very little power being exercised in the political system. The lack of education, the lack of participation and the lack of accountability all leads to an almost perfect system benefitting all segments of its society and instrumental in destroying the one segment of society… the one most adversely affected by it. I believe that if the late Chief Justice Roger B. Taney were still alive and after articulating how Black/African American males are inferior to whites he would probably be of the belief that the future has reaffirmed his decision from one-hundred and sixty-five years ago. I must admit that the Dred Scott decision angered me. But, instead of allowing my passions to cloud my judgment, I used it as fuel to begin to right the wrongs of the Courts and the prosecutors and even the attorneys who are by Constitutional law are supposed to be our only defense against a criminal accusation by one of the states of the United States of AmerPage 12
ica. These attorneys are operating without any accountability. The attorney meets with family members of the criminally accused knowing that they are uneducated in law and artfully use language that’s doesn’t necessarily violate the rules of ethics and professionalism, but attorneys knowingly scheme with the prosecutor to agree to an outcome befitting of the prosecutor’s approval at the expense of his client all based the fact that the criminally accused and his family are uneducated and ignorant to Constitutional law. Imagine if your run-of-the-mill criminal was an expert at criminal and constitutional law? Then ponder what would the criminal justice conviction rate look like then? I have tested this theory for the past 19 years. I received an eighty-five (85) year sentence myself by the Honorable Judge, Tanya Walton Pratt in the Marion County Superior Court Criminal Division Room One, for Felony Murder and Attempted Murder. At sentencing, Judge Pratt asked me if I had anything to say and I said that the conviction was in violation of my constitutional right and that she should reverse it. She stated to me that she could not reverse a jury’s decision. I stated to her that that was not true. Judgment notwithstanding the verdict (JNOV). The judge then stated that she would not overturn it and that I would have to just file an appeal and told me “That’s enough Mr. Adams.” She then sentenced me to fifty-five (55) years for the felony murder and thirty years (30) for the attempted murder. On October 18, 2005, my conviction and sentence for felony murder were reversed by the Court of Appeals of Indiana. While serving the time for the attempted murder, I mastered the Constitutional Amendments and the criminal justice system. I mastered how to take even someone who was illiterate without the ability to read basic English and with enough determination and drive he could properly represent himself in a federal habeas corpus proceeding, pro se and present cogent argument and litigate himself to a suc-
cessful outcome worthy of confidence. It led me to the only solution of changing the system and ridding ourselves of the people in the system that have been for years and that is keeping the Black/African American community in oppression. If that is not true, then let the reader of this article explain how 4.2% of a state’s population can represent almost half of its incarcerated population. Until that dramatically decreases then our local elected and appointed officials are not to be let off the hook. But something is changing. Black and African American people are becoming awakened by the realities of what they see versus the lies of what they have been taught. There is a sense of cognizance that is permeating throughout the younger generation of black, brown and even poor whites that are even affected by this government’s war on the undesirables. Younger Black and African American males are participating more in the efforts to get out the vote. More are running for elected office. But I am sure there will be increased attempts to stymie the new Black and African Americans namely government mandates.
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Music Producer Trevor Lawrence Jr.
TrevBeats” (a name given to Trevor when he shot the pilot to his cooking & music show Beats & Eats w/ Cedric the Entertainer) began playing the drums at age 2. “I couldn’t sit and play so I had to stand up for the first couple of years,” says Trev.” Music is all I know, and a little about cooking.” By the age of 18 and a senior Trevor graduated from Hamilton with two scholarships one from Capitol Records (the Nat King Cole Scholarship) and the other the Lieber and Stoller Award from ASCAP. Trevor attended USC for 2 and half years and then transferred to Cal Arts and then transTrevor comes from a musical family. Trevor’s ferred to the real world. grandfather Ira Tucker is credited as one of the forefathers of gospel music and has won a “The most important thing that happened to me Grammy (1974) with the group, which he was in my first year of college was that producer Greg with for over 60 years, The Dixie Hummingbirds. Porree’ (father of Justin Poree’ of Ozomatli, TrevTrevor’s Aunt Sundray Tucker aka “Aunt Sandra” or used to give Justin Drum lessons) called me for also sang with Stevie Wonder and countless oth- my first real record date with an artist named Vinx on Sting’s Pangea record label. I played on two ers including Patti LaBelle. Trevor Lawrence Jr. was born to Lynda Laurence (formerly of the Supremes) and Trevor Lawrence (Writer/Producer/ Saxophonist). Both of Trevor’s parents were original members of Stevie Wonder’s Wonderland band which brought you: Songs in The Key of Life, Inner Visions, and other Classic American Music History. After Stevie Wonder, Lynda Laurence went on to become a Supreme on Motown. She joined the group when Diana Ross left, and Jean Terrell took the lead spot. (Floy Joy)
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or three songs and that really changed my life. I decided that I really wanted to get into the art of recording. I started collecting snares and before I really had a set of decent recording drums Harvey Mason used to let me use his drum set to record, which was awesome.”
with Macy Gray, played on Stevie Wonder’s A Time To Love Album, played on Ashanti’s 3rd album (I also played on her first album) and went To Africa back-to-back with Stevie Wonder and Stanley Clarke a week apart. It’s weird how life is. I have pictures of Stevie holding me as a Baby and I worked with him 30 years later Trevor went on to than my parents record with art- did. ists like Macy Gray, Boys II Men, Dr. Dre, In 2001 I met suPeter Himmelman per producer 7 and a host of oth- Aurelius who is ers before getting responsible for a very interesting a great number call. “One Day I was at my Dad’s studio work- of hits with arting with him on a movie(To Sir With Love II with ists like Ashanti, Sidney Poitier) and I got a call from at the time JaRule, Eve, and A&R at A&M records Junior Regisford I picked up Jennifer Lopez. the phone and he said “Hi Trev hold on someone I worked with 7 wants to speak to you” he clicked over and on for several years three-way he had Terri Lewis from Jimmy Jam and we did Lioand Terri Lewis. I nearly fell over. I had played on nel Richie’s ala record for Jimmy and Terri, and they liked it and bum Just For had a new group coming out named SOLO that You(2004) towas going on tour so in 24 hours I left warm Los gether and I co- wrote 4 songs on that one. And Angeles in February and flew to Freezing Minne- 7 is also the reason I met and co-wrote a song on apolis where I rehearsed and learned about being Mariah Carey’s album Charmbracelet. “We had a on the road for the first time. We opened for Mi- Sound” together and also, we have a great chemchael Bolton in Europe for a month and then we istry in the studio. hit America with R. Kelly, LL Cool J and Xscape. It was an introduction to Sheds(large concert ven- After touring the world with Stevie wonder and ues) crowds, tour busses, and everything I ever doing the Live 8 concert for over a million people dreamed Touring would be. in Philadelphia, I continued doing studio work with Scott Storch, Mike Elizondo and many others in I worked and worked and tried to build up my body Los Angeles. I got a call from a friend of mine, of work and my name and here I am today still Continued on Page 17 learning a lot. In 2004 I went on tour to Europe Page 15
By: Chrystal Allen-O’Jon
Monetizing Hobbies
Benedicto Wanyama, Marshon Aunjel, & Their Son Michael Oduori Gonzo It’s an online family affair Benedicto “Ben” Gonzo and his son Michael have created a new lucrative online selling service. They have photos taken of great products for potential clients to view for purchase. This has been a lucrative endeavor for them both in 2021 and they see the potential for 2022. Additionally, Ben builds and creates wood working, drums, shakers, jewelry boxes, storage furniture and unique functional cabinet pieces. Let’s not forget the queen of the house, wife, and mom Marshon Gonzo. She designs, or together with the client assists in creating beautiful works of art. If that’s not enough, Ben works with partners to build Music Studios and Van Conversions for business or living spaces. Again, his partner in crime, Marshon Gonzo uses her passion for photography, love of cooking, and love for helping people to bring in money via an independent home assistant, nanny and elderly care provider. They collectively see their hobbies as a fun family way to generate business. Marshon explains, “When my husband Ben sold his first piece (a drum at Venice Beach, CA) and when someone in our community noticed a storage cabinet in our living room Ben created from an Idea I drew up of, we knew we were on to something lucrative”. Realizing the need for extra training, Ben took online courses for very specific ideas, as he needed clarity on whether building certain pieces and pure creative ability would align. To test market items, Ben began to sell items at his brothers store in Venice Beach and displayed his drums at drum gatherings. The response was overwhelmingly positive. Of course, with the positive there are always challenges. Creating unique shapes for drums and furniture with stability was perfected through trial and error. Marshon recalls, “I remember a table Ben made with at least 1000 or more thin strips. The process included glue, screws, setting and sanding to obtain smooth results. It was a strain that took at least 6 months. I can with say with confidence, Ben is very patient”. When it comes to the paperwork and administration side of things, most of the work is during tax season and involves purchase orders, which helps us track and make sense of our expenses for the year.. “We are also able to keep our overhead expenses to a minimum by displaying and selling items online via Facebook, Instagram and Etsy”. As a family, the Gonzo’s have found the key to being steadfast about their passion. They listen to advice, explore vintage stores, always keep joy and laughter and the forefront. “We dance, have a glass of wine, or beer and just enjoy each other’s company. Most Page 16
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importantly, we have found, if you don’t have love, you have nothing! No amount of money can bring true happiness – This comes only from G O D”.
Terrace Martin who put me in touch with Snoop’s camp. I toured the world with Snoop and now my drum kits from those tours are on display at Hard Rock in Las Vegas and India. In 2008, after Snoop I began doing more session with Dr. Dre. I started with him on and off in ’94 and did SNL with him in ’96 and ’98. Those sessions ended up with me joining the Aftermath Family and Production Team. I went on to have over 30 releases with Dre and we are still working strong today with some great things in store. Along the way I have been fortunate to work with Hans Zimmer on “Man of Steel” as well as many other Producers on records and Movies like “American Hustle” and even the most recent “Halo 5” video game. I ended up getting involved in the Music Software business with a great company called MVP Loops. We successfully launched several software titles and have many more to come. Now in 2016 I have become co-owner of the Parent Company VIP Loops. The journey has been long, and it still feels like it has just begun. I thank all the companies that support me.” Most recently I have been a part of several projects and releases such as: The Big Short, Anthony Hamilton’s newest album as well as Lianne La Havas, Euge Groove’s Latest album, Leann Rimes latest upcoming album, Herbie Hancock’s upcoming album, rapper YG’s upcoming album as well as newcomers: Banks, Charlotte OC, and Daye Jack.
Listen to some of Reaux Fareal music.
Roosevelt Wright (Ro Wright), he uses Reaux Fareal as his moniker because it connects him to his Louisiana roots and reminds him to always be himself… unapologetically. Reaux has publicly stated his greatest honor is being the father of three sons. Cadence, Ethan, and Caleb, the Godson that he always claims as his own. Reaux played a role on the HBO series, Treme, and he has also been featured on Fox Sports, MTV, TBN, and Congo TV Network. He wrote, directed, and starred in Get The Ring, now playing on Amazon Prime. “I feel I am more effective using my gifts to bridge racial gaps, empowering others through my books, and connecting people through my music and many creative abilities.”
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Married to PTSD A Military Wife’s Journey Thankfully, my husband Kent is comfortable with me sharing our journey and growth process. For the both of us, we endeavor to be vulnerable for two reasons. One, it keeps us both accountable for continued growth as a couple and two, we hope it helps others in their growth and healing process.
Our History
S.D.S.U., got married, had chilI never thought in my wildest dren, got on with life – we both imagination that I’d be married lost track of each other. to someone in the Military, let alone dealing with military PTSD Fast forward some 25 years residual. Yet here I am. It has later, we each had been previbeen and continues to be a jour- ously married and divorced for ney with ups and downs. Most ten years. One Saturday afterpeople that know me, know that noon in June in 2008 I received I am always open to learning a printed letter from Kent all new ways of doing and being. the way from Iraq. It was surHowever, this has become one prising to hear from him and of my toughest life experiences to find out that he had to do serious research to find me. to date. Who knew there were so many To help you understand our re- Chrystal Allen’s in Los Angeles? lationship, I need to take you The name is so common now, I back some years. Kent and I even had someone who had my met each other at San Diego exact name spelling falsely use State University in the (um) ear- my ID. Kent explained later that, ly 80’s. We were two wild-eyed “I had to use your sister’s name (feral acting) 18-year-olds from just to find you. I have always Southern and Northern Califor- remembered how kind you nia. You know the scenario. Old were in college”. I was super imenough to live on our own but pressed, even flattered by the so “green” in life experience. At work he put in to find me. We that time, I was seeing a foot- began to correspond via email ball player and my now hus- and then by phone to reconnect band was my “play-brother”. and grew a close friendship that People thought at the time, we later went deeper. favored and always thought we were brother and sister, so we While in Iraq, Kent later admitted he realized something was went with it. going on with him emotionAfter about three years, I left ally (but didn’t know exactly Page 18
what). He noticed that he was regularly agitated, even often angry and this was affecting how he dealt with co-workers and people in general day-today. He reflected on how others were treated in the military when they had breakdowns. In his opinion, they were treated as “broken objects” that needed discarding. Because of this, he kept his emotional issues to himself. Keeping his feelings to himself, did not stop some staff members from taking notice. Kent was asked to see a base therapist, who then asked a few basic surface questions and sent him back to work. It wasn’t until months later that Kent was able to attach the bouts of anger to outside business and personal dealings that began to trigger him negatively. The triggers caused an irrational thought process. On his second assignment in Iraq, he realized that he was experiencing Post Traumatic Stress Disorder or PTSD. It became even more apparent, while traveling as a Military Police Officer to various provinces to provide train-
ing – certifying custom agents/agricultural. One tour in Afghanistan became extremely stressful due to issues at work and an incident of racism in 2009, which became the catalyst for a deep seething anger. From there he went to Ft. Stewart GA, where he was kept for observation for three weeks. Overall, Kent had been overseas for about three years in a stressful and sometimes (he felt) hostile environment. From there he returned to the U.S. 2009, we were married and lived in TN for (2 ½) years, then decided it was time to choose a warmer climate. One choice was New Mexico another was Arizona. We settled on Arizona, since it was close to Los Angeles, where my family was. Kent, knowing only military life, went back into the reserves in (Scottsdale, AZ), then in 2014 his mom passed away. Fortunately, we were able to spend a few days with her before she transitioned. In June 2015 Kent was off to New Mexico / Ft. Bliss for two months for deployment training to go Guantanamo Bay Detention Camp aka GTMO in Cuba https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ Guantanamo_Bay_detention_camp. August 2015 his unit flew into Ft. Lauderdale, then from there to GTMO. Cuba was a new experience and fresh start for Kent, where he was a platoon, Sergeant. The first six months were fine, but then a platoon sergeant got fired and Kent was given a raise in position with more stress involved – dealing with 30 newly deployed soldiers and competitors for his position. Looking back Kent felt like his strict disciplinary work style caused issues for him, which caused a “pile on” of soldiers against him, which led to severe emotional distress. In 2016 he was referred to a therapist at Ft. Bliss, then put on medication for symptoms of PTSD. With all the back-and-forth assignments we have been married a total of 13 years but 4 /12 of those were while Kent was on active duty, away from home and under duress, which took a major toll on our marriage.
As it was, we needed to learn about each all over again every time he came home from duty and now the extra added element of how to maneuver through the effects of PTSD was a challenge. Once Kent retired after 33 years of service and two degrees and was home for good, we had to learn how to live together cohesively. This was no easy task. I had my own childhood trauma. That coupled with having to deal with Kent’s current PTSD and childhood trauma was not easy to say the least. We were both however willing to do what it took to make our marriage work and heal individually. PTSD Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that occurs following a life-threatening event such as military combat, natural disasters, terrorist incidents, serious accidents, or physical or sexual assault. Approximately eight percent of all people will experience PTSD at some point in their life. That number rises to about 30 percent for combat veterans. I can attest to the fact that symptoms of PTSD created problems with trust, closeness, intimacy, communication, decision-making, and problem-solving. Once Kent was home and retired, he often felt useless, with loss of interest in social activities. On many occasions I felt pushed away because I hadn’t served in the military. I was often left feeling “how could I possibly understand what he was suffering” being a mere civilian. This made me very resentful towards my husband, but I held it in (not a healthy response). Understanding PTSD and its Effects on Marriage (psychcentral.com). My personal frustration with Kent was listening daily to the same stories of mistreatments done to him in childhood, the military and in personal and romantic relationships. I would hear these “mistreatment stories” over and over and then Continued on Page 21
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over again. I could almost recite them verbatim. We differ drastically in our approach to trauma. I like to forget about the details (not good either), he likes to remember and retell the stories. I later read that focusing daily on past hurts could lead to psychosis. How Kent and I approach issues in life, our approach to people, money and handling problems is starkly different. This always is why, startlingly, we work well, not perfect. Episodes & Hard Conversations Honestly, when I first experienced a few of his “episodes” (what he and I call anger outbursts) my first instinct was to run in fear. “OK, do I need to flee for my life?” were my initial thoughts, on more than one occasion. Realizing something was seriously going on with him and he wasn’t able to control these episodes at times, I gave him a choice. It was either therapy to definitely figure out the root of the outbursts, or I would have to go. He wanted me to stay and work it out. According to: https://psychcentral.com/blog/ understanding-ptsd-and-its-effects-on-marriage#3 People with Post-traumatic stress disorder can maintain or rebuild successful marital relationships with dedication, commitment, and perseverance by: • Attending individual and couples counseling regularly. • Being open and honest with feelings. Sharing. • Being respectful and compassionate. • Learning and practicing problem-solving and communication skills. • Integrating fun and playfulness into life. • Learning relaxation techniques and engaging in them alone and together with one’s spouse. • Being compliant with medication, if prescribed. • Avoiding addictive substances such as drugs,
alcohol, gambling, and pornography. We were dealing with at least three of these issues. Since treatment is essential for post-traumatic stress disorder, we had to have a hard conversation about how to get help and incorporate changes into our marriage. The Toll It Took on Me While my main focus was on Kent, because I had become his ever-attentive caregiver, not stopping to think about the emotional toll it was taking on me. Not only did Kent have PTSD, but he had to have a metal plate inserted in one foot, had damage to his rotator cuff due to years of carrying heavy backpacks and was dealing with Lupus. While I was happy to be my husband’s caregiver, I never even considered the secondary trauma it may have been causing me. Secondary Trauma and Military Veteran Caregivers: Smith College Studies in Social Work: Vol 79, No 3-4 (tandfonline.com). Secondary traumatic stress is the emotional duress that results when an individual hears about the first hand trauma experiences of another. Each year more than 10 million children in the United States endure the trauma of abuse, violence, natural disasters, and other adverse events – Secondary Traumatic Stress | The National Child Traumatic Stress Network (nctsn.org). Realizing that the more his stories were repeated to me, I too was feeling the effect of his trauma. But wait, I was a victim of child molestation, had I also done this to my children? Had I rehearsed my trauma so much that it adversely affected them? Looking back, I believe so. I could now see how this trauma could become generational – What a lightbulb moment. Get AMPS Apparel by Supporting Our Business
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What Ever Happened to...
The Band SLAVE By Kent O’Jon
album deal with Cotillion Records in 1977.
Slave was a Foundational Black American Funk band originally from Dayton, Ohio. Slave was founded by Steve Washington (trumpeter), and Floyd Miller (trombonist) during fall 1975, spring 1976. Most of the members were still in high school when their initial album dropped. Two of the main members Mark “Bassdawg” Adams (bass) and Mark “Drac” Hicks (lead and rhythm guitar) were students at Nettie Roth High School in Dayton. The original lineup included Steve Washington, Floyd Miller, Mark Adams, Mark Hicks, Carter Bradley (keyboards), Danny Webster (lead and rhythm guitar), Orion “Bimmy” Wilhoite (alto, and tenor saxophone), Tom Lockett Jr (alto, tenor saxophone), and Tim “Tiny” Dozier (drums). The group began performing in high school “Battle of the Band” competitions and talent shows in the Dayton area. Steve Washington was related to a member of the Ohio Players (Ralph “Pee Wee Middlebrooks.) Washington was originally from New Jersey. The group was formed from two bands: The Young Mystics, and Black Satin Soul. When the group honed their skills and were ready for a recording contract, the group relocated to New Jersey where they eventually signed a six-year, six Page 22
Their initial album (titled Slave), spawned the hit topping song “Slide.” “Slide” rose to number “1” on the R&B charts in 1977 and to number “32” on the US Charts. Though “Slide” was their only number “1” charting song, the group enjoyed moderate success with other songs such as “Stellar Fungk, 1978”, “Just a Touch of Love, 1979”, “Watching You, 1980”, “Snapshot, 1981”, and finally “Wait for Me” also in 1981. The group evolved and endured several lineup changes during their run from 1977-1996. One of the most defining and memorable changes occurred when drummer and singer Steve Arrington joined the group in 1978 for “The Concept” album. In 1978, Arrington, along with singers Curt Jones, Starleana Young and keyboardist Ray Turner joined the group. Carter Bradley, Orion Wilhoite and Tim Dozier departed. The significance of these additions are that Steve Arrington became the lead vocalist (Just a Touch of Love, Watching You, Snap Shot, Wait For Me, For the Love of U and other songs), while Washington, Young, Jones, and Lockett left in 1980 to form the popular group Aurra Mark “Drac” Hicks also
departed in 1980 to pursue a solo career. Drac is most noted for his memorable guitar solo on the track “Slide.” The original lineup produced the group’s first gold record award for the album “Slave” which contained “Slide.” The lineup with Arrington and the future Aurra members produced the group’s final gold record award with “Stone Jam.” Stone Jam contained numerous memorable tunes such as “Watching You”, “Dreamin”, “Stone Jam”, Sizzlin Hot”, and “Never Get Away from Me.” The group’s final noteworthy effort produced two charting songs; “Snapshot”, and “Wait for Me.” The group experienced future lineup changes during the 80s as Steve Arrington departed and formed “Steve Arrington’s Hall of Fame” in 1982. The constant member who held the group together was bassist Mark Adams who remained as the group’s leader till 1996. Mark Hicks returned during the 90s and collaborated with Adams however, they were never able to achieve their initial success. Hicks later formed “Drac and the New Slave” during the 2000s and performed with his group until his passing in 2011. Mark Adams formed a version of Slave and performed until his passing also in 2011. Danny Webster (lead and rhythm guitar, lead and background vocals passed in 2020.) Orion Wilhoite (alto and tenor saxophone) left the group in the 1970s to pursue a career in law enforcement. He also passed away in 2020. The question is What Happened to Slave? They were obviously very talented and popular during a five-year period (1977-1981.) Why were they not more successful? Why no platinum awards? Why didn’t they stay together and tour like “Lakeside” another Dayton, Ohio group? I have researched the group and read articles about the group, and this is what I have discovered. Contracts There were nine original members. Much of the group were in high school and were not versed in the business of music. They knew nothing about royalties, royalties and publishing in dif-
ferent countries, having legal representation before signing a recording contract, etc. They were young kids who were probably enamored with making music and being an artist. This naivety most likely hurt them financially. The record company (Cotillion-Atlantic) , the manager, and producers made most of the money while the artists made very little. I would say that the only exception to this sad story was most likely Stave Washington. Washington was smart enough to copyright the name Slave and he formed his own group (Aurra) using three members of the group Slave. Since his uncle was Ralph Middlebrooks of the Ohio Players, I would surmise that Middlebrooks most likely schooled Washington about the business of music. The Record Company It appears to me that Cotillion Records should have promoted the group more aggressively. I was a teenager back in the 70s. I do not remember ever seeing Slave on any variety shows (Merv Griffin, Mike Douglas, Johnny Carson, American Bandstand, only once on Soul Train during the end of their run.) Why weren’t they promoted and pushed into the spotlight? I heard a line in one of their songs “The Party Song” “You will hear us, but never see us!” That line is ridiculous, and it ultimately harmed the band. They needed to be Continued on Page 24
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seen! I have a DVD disc of their appearance on Soul Train and the lone tv appearance on Don Kirshner’s Rock Concert. By the time of their DKRC appearance, they were at the end of their run. They should have been on television back in the 1970s and 1980. Dissention They had nine members (maybe more) at one time. This means multiple egos and personalities. Where was management to manage their money properly and take care of the artists? I recall reading about Steve Arrington. Steve Arrington admitted to leaving because management and the record company” took their money and my money too!” Substance Abuse (Partying) I will not put their business out there (no names will be discussed.) I could only imagine being young and being in the spotlight, adored, and on stage during the late 70s early 80s. Probably every band (no matter who) fell into this trap. One big party. As a fan, I have fond memories of the group’s music. I have framed five of their most notable albums (Slave, The Concept, Just a Touch of Love, Stone Jam, and Showtime.) I even purchased copies of the two lone gold record awards for the albums Slave and Stone Jam from Ebay. I have one promotion poster for Stone Jam. I keep these memorabilia in my man cave. Hopefully one day TV One can do an “Unsung” episode on the band. Better yet, a movie which can be used to educate the younger generation about what not to do when you become a rock star. References: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Slave_(band) Page 24
Fred Opuki “Boogie” Gonzo Fred loves what he does and sees it as both a hobby and business. Not only does he love it, but he makes money in the process. Say’s Fred “When I arrived in California my brother Alex lived near the beach. I visited and observed how business was conducted and realized it was like that in Nairobi Kenya and thought perhaps it might be a good set up for me”. Fred elaborates, “I didn’t need any initial training since we took courses as youth in my country on how to create beautiful pieces of jewelry, woodwork and art on canvas. I just took what I learned and continued the process of what would not only be beautiful but what would sell here in California” One thing Fred learned, “Through trial you learn, if the people love the product they will come. Clients came in time, by establishing great relationships with the community, other artists and people who live in neighboring areas. I am always on my “hospitality toes” ensuring customers and potential customers feel special by showing them new created pieces”. Challenges are seasonal, says Fred “with patience and love of my product from the community my head was and is always above water thanks to God. Patience, my faith with much prayer is my recipe for success”. When it comes to paperwork “ It’s not much of an issue since Kenya has a African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) System - https://ustr.gov/issue-areas/trade-development/preference-programs/african-growth-and-opportunity-act-agoa. The AGOA Act is a system in which the USA supports small business by not charging taxes for small amounts of products. By allowing products to come through duty free, it helps to maintain an easier way to do business keeping”. Boogie leaves us with his advice for new and existing business owners. “Give yourself at least three years with patience, something will give. Also, remember to be respectful and friendly with all people, whether they be homeless, drug addicted or wealthy. Perhaps a smile and laughter would help too!”
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THE FAITH CORNER Churches & Gospel Charts
LA’S MEGA CHURCHES
TOP 10 GOSPEL PLAYLIST
1. Oasis Church
1 Jireh | Elevation Worship & Maverick City Elevation Worship
2. ONE - A Potter’s House Church 3. Mosaic 4. Grace Community Church 5. Newsong LA Church 6. First Congregational Church of Los Angeles 7. Reality LA 8. Angelus Temple 9. Exodus3LA 10. Shepherd Church
2 Tasha Cobbs Leonard - Gotta Believe (Lyric Video) 3 “No Greater Love” Official Lyric Video by Rudy Currence & Chrisette Michele RUDY CURRENCE 4 Juan Winans - Never On My Own [feat. Deborah Joy Winans] (Lyric Video) 5 Byron Cage - You Are (Lyric Video) malacomg 6 Your Presence is a Gift Dr. E. Dewey Smith Jr. 7 Renee Spearman - I Got God Music Video 8 CeCe Winans - Believe For It (Official Lyric Video) 9 Amazing Pastor Mike Jr. 10 Tamela Mann - He Did It For Me (Official Music Video & Single) MANNTV
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E
ric Seats is an accomplished drummer to the stars, a father of two daughters, a son, mentor and was an Executive Producer of the Next Great Drummer. The premise of the Next Great Drummer show, was to follow aspiring drummers in a U.S. tour, covering contestants as they compete for the title of “top drummer” in their city. Followed by a national and later international competition for the world’s ‘Next Great Drummer’. The show was sponsored in part
Music Producer Eric Seats
Projects: Past & Present
they toured with such artists as Montell Jordan. Rapture went on to be the music director for Timbaland, Missy Elliott, Aaliyah, Ginuwine and Playa. Timbaland noticed their production skills and signed them both to a publishing deal with Warner/Chappell.
Barrymore film “Charlie’s Angels”. After the success of the Survivor soundtrack, Aaliyah requested that Eric and his team work on her upcoming project as well. The result was production for half of her record “Aaliyah” which included
Eric’s music experience both singularly and collectively have paid off in chart topping successes like, “Where My Girls At” for 702 in collaboration with Missy Elliot. This song paved the way for a management deal with Blackground Entertainment.
by Sam Ash Music and Spaun Drums. The show toured venues across the U.S. with plans to eventually tour Japan and Europe. https://www.facebook.com/NextGreatDrummerSearch He and his producers are hoping to be picked up by a network. Eric is also part of Key Beats, Inc., an amazing team of music/songwriters and producers. This team was established in 1997 by both Rapture Stewart and Eric Seats. Together,
He and his team went on to produce songs for the Jet Li and Aaliyah hit movie and soundtrack “Romeo Must Die”. While producing a song for Destiny’s Child member Beyonce Knowles, the opportunity came to also produce “Independent Women (Pt. 2)” for the “Survivor” CD. This was the original version that was recorded for the Drew
the number one hit “Rock Da Boat”, written by Static. Eric, along with his team have gone on to produce and write music projects with the following oth-
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er artists: Playa, 50 Cent, Lloyd Banks, Young Buck, Tony Yayo, DJ Whoo Kid, Travis Barker, T.I., DJ Drama, Young Dro, Jay-Z, Tweet, Nelly, Murphy Lee, DMX, Ashanti, Ja Rule, DJ Reflex, DJ Dense, Yung Joc, Diddy, Pharell, Busta Rhymes, Chingy, Fabolous, Tank, Keyshia Cole, Kanye West, Bubba Sparxxx, Nelly Furtado, Rich Boy, Soulja Boy, Lil’ Mo, D4L, En Vogue, Karen ClarkSheard, The Soul Seekers, Mary Mary, Chante Moore, Kenny Latimore, Dave Hollister, Lalah Hathaway, Kelly Price, Patti LaBelle and Stevie Wonder. In the future, look out for Eric’s Broadway musical, ‘Timeless’. His current music projects can be found here:
SO CAN YOU. Page 29
Meet The Artist
Trace Austin
M
eet handsome, talented new music artist, Trace Austin Price, who goes by the stage name of Trace Austin. When asked about his music genre he responds,” I record multiple genres of music, varying from Hip Hop, R&B to Pop. I recently did a song with an island vibe - reggae style”. Trace explains, “Being born in the UK has given me a broad range in my music style. Some of my past music projects include quite a few singles out on platforms, along with an EP titled Canary Wharf, which is named after my hometown in London where I’m from”.
your craft “.
To young entertainers Trace advises, “Believe in yourself and have confidence. Never give up on your dreams. It just takes one person to open those doors. Don’t ever let anyone dim your light, believe in yourself and work on being the best at
When asked about music obstacles encountered, Trace says, “Being the grandson of a legendary entertainer for sixty years are hard shoes to follow, people have tried to compare me to his classical music. I have a totally different performance music genre - old school classic to new hip hop are my favorites. I feel I have to prove that I’m good in the genre of music that I perform. I also have to work twice as hard to prove that nothing was handed to me”. When asked about new projects Trace says, “ I just finished a song featuring The Game, I’m also about to release a new album and I was recently on a TV show called Home Sweet Home produced by Ava Duvernay”.
Find more here:
https://youtube.com/channel/UCqtPDKdKFFqMitb8moCTcXA
Instagram: @thetraceaustin
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https://music.apple.com/us/artist/trace-austin/1469617253
Restaurant Reviews
by Benita Jensen
The LA Hostess with the Most-tess Gives us the 411 on Places to Eat in LA
Benita spills the tea on this amazing Mexican Restaurant - Poncho’s This is the best Mexican food I’ve ever tasted in Manhattan Beach. It’s minutes from the water, has been a community favorite for 40 years. In fact, one of the bartenders is still the very first bartender. My favorites happen to be “the hard-shell taco beef with the cheese enchiladas and the strawberry margaritas with the sugar on the rim the best! Poncho’s has amazing customer service. When you step into this place it feels like you’ve been transported to Mexico.
Benita’s rating = value for your dollar. 1. Food Flavor & Texture – $$$$ 2. Food Quality & Healthiness – $$$$ 3. Value – $$$$ 4. Service & Setting – $$$$ Page 31
By Chrystal Allen-O’Jon
Los Angeles Business Owner Spotlight
Introducing Apryl’s Life in A Bottle The best tasting cold pressed juice in Los Angeles and locally sourced All things healthy, all things natural, all things calm comes to mind when describing entrepreneur Ms. Apryl Sims. She has a calm demeanor and healthy glow that exudes from the inside out. Let’s find how this masterpiece was created. Her Education First of all, Ms. Sims doesn’t look a day over 25 but has fifty years of practical living experience coupled with over thirty-five years of Marketing, Sales and Management expertise. Apryl was educated at Howard University with a (BBA Marketing 1984), she is the proud disciple of the late Dr. Lawrence Johnson who, taught business marketing at Howard University. Says Sims “He was a no-nonsense instructor, stern about business who also was a brilliant marketing mind”. In 1994, Apryl completed a certificate program for entrepreneurs at UCLA’s Anderson Graduate School of Business. Early Training for Sims was a family affair. Sims comes from a long line of entrepreneurs. Starting with her paternal great-grandfather Nathaniel Newman, founder of Newman & Sons Funeral Home in Shreveport, LA. Her dad, Larry Sims later founded 333 Construction Company, where Apryl acquired her outstanding work ethic. Says April, “He raised me with the understanding that whatever someone was able to pay me for my services, they had to be making more off what I was doing for them. He would always say, I should be able to earn at least what I was being paid to do myself” Page 32
Early Training for Sims was a family affair. Sims comes from a long line of entrepreneurs. Starting with her paternal great-grandfather Nathaniel Newman, founder of Newman & Sons Funeral Home in Shreveport, LA. Her dad, Larry Sims later founded 333 Construction Company, where Apryl acquired her outstanding work ethic. Says April, “He raised me with the understanding that whatever someone was able to pay me for my services, they had to be making more off of what I was doing for them. He would always say, I should be able to earn at least what I was being paid to do myself Remarkably, Apryl was able to work with her father for the last 10 years of his life. One major and memorable project they did together was the rehabilitation of the former eatery - Wichstand, now currently known as Simply Wholesome, a Los Angeles landmark business. “My dad transitioned after completing the project, I then ended up working at Simply Wholesome as the General Manager for 24 years”. He was of the belief that
it was a human responsibility to lift everyone he met. In fact, he showed his friends how to be independent contractors. Apryl will proudly let you know, “My work ethnic came from my dad, in that I paid what my dad taught me forward by helping other entrepreneurs get items to market - from hair care to herbal green popcorn, I’ve done it”. Apryl credits her experience at Simply Wholesome, “ I leaned about product consistency and great teamwork and gave many young people their first jobs there”. Her Juice Line Like her father, Apryl loves helping people be their best both physically and spiritually. When Apryl learned that a high school friend was ill, she wanted to help using natural methods. Realizing she could provide healthy food broken down into juice, (which helps the body breakdown food with minimal effort) she got to work! As a result, she produced a juice with all the natural ingredients needed to help the body fight. Apryl started giving out juice samples to friends and customers only to find out that they began to feel better physically and loved the taste. Her ill friend began to see their cancer numbers decline. In fact, years later they are alive. The Business Inspiration Results = Apryl’s Life in A Bottle The most popular of Apryl’s line ranges from $6.99 to $9.99 you can purchase healthy drinks like: Village Green Drink, Immunity Booster, Green Goodness, Orange Pineapple Carrot Beet Ginger, Pineapple Turmeric Lemon Ginger, Spicy Limeade, Grapefruit Juice, Hot Greens, Pineapple Juice, and Gerie’s Juice.
Apryl’s Life In A Bottle 6130 Avalon Boulevard, Los Angeles, California 90003, United States Mon-Fri: 8am-6pm Sat-Sun: Closed aprylsliab@gmail.com
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UFO’S
Everyone has their own beliefs of what is true about UFO’s/Aliens. Does anyone really know the truth? Whatever your belief system might be, there have been accounts given by numerous people who attest to the fact they do exist. One account is that Assistant to Albert Einstein for a while, Dr. Shirley Wright claimed that the famous physicist performed autopsies on 5 aliens. Dr. Shirley Wright stated that the United States government flew Albert Einstein into the states to observe the dead bodies of aliens and their aircraft in 1947. Another account taking place in the past (The Phoenix Lights) will celebrate its 25th anniversary Wednesday, March 9, 2022. No one has a clue what they witnessed that day. In my quest to learn more, I interviewed a lady who chooses to stay anonymous about her personal experience. The anonymous witness stated, “this phenomenon had bright lights, which were orange and red.” Further, she said, “the flying object was a V-shape with no sound”. She was not the only one that witnessed this phenomenon. Other people in Arizona, Nevada, and Mexico did as well. The mystery of it all remains unsolved. Living in Arizona, at times, I too saw objects and wondered what I was looking at in the sky. I would take pictures of the objects and show others. Most of the time, I would not get an explanation from anyone, There were times people would brush me off and say “welcome to Arizona”. After talking to a few individuals, I met Ronn Clownn Anderson. Ronn introduced me to a gentleman by the name of Dr. Robert Shiepe. Let’s start off with a little background on Dr. Shiepe. He was born and raised in Los Angeles, with an excellent science background and a doctorate in Pharmacology. Dr. Shiepe first presented mail order in 1996 and continues to receive Page 34
By Kenya Rivers
royalties even after his retirement. About four years ago, he started seeing drones that would be described as 10 inches in size with a disk shape and a cooper color flying approximately 1700 miles per minute. The object itself had no sound or no sonic boom. The drone seemed to operate off electricity, as described by nearby aircrafts. Dr. Shiepe stated, “it seemed the drones behaved like military, or law enforcement aircrafts and preferred to stay undetected”. Dr. Shiepe started noticing these objects while taking pictures and videos on his balcony in Marina Del Rey, California. He noticed, on occasion while viewing the unexplained objects, there would also be Military and law enforcement aircrafts with drones nearby. Dr. Shiepe stated that the military also observed the drones and started to look for them daily. Dr. Sheipe knew he wasn’t the only one that saw the drones. He submitted his findings to the United States Air Force. On January 8, 2022, March Air Force Base in Riverside, CA, allowed Dr. Shiepe to speak about his findings with his video records. At his lectures he mentions that anyone can spot the drones, by simply watching an aircraft in the air for about 25 seconds. Several pilots stated that they had seen the drones also in the air. The Air Force Base has asked Dr. Shiepe to hold another lecture in May 2022.
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AMPS MAGAZINE of LOS ANGELES
Chrystal Allen-O’Jon, Publisher
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American Minority People Succeeding
