Dominique Wilkins Featured on Cover of Consciousness Magazine

Edition - 2016 Vol. 12 Issue 4

Feature Contents

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06 Jocko Sims Interview

Actor stars as Lt. Burk in season 3 of “The Last Ship”

08 Comedian Jen Kirkman

Stand-up comedian discuss her life in new book

10 Talented Actor Maurice G Smith 13 Health: Symptoms of Detecting Cancer 14 Dominique Wilkins [Exclusive Interview] NBA Hall of Famer Educates the Masses about Diabetes

18 Edo: Digital Artist and Fashion Designer Young creative artist rises to Success

20 Vernon Turner: “Living A Dream”

Retired NFL football player shares his testimony through recent book “The Next Level: The Game I Had to Play”

22 Gary Hines Remembers Legendary Musician Prince Sounds of Blackness music director reflects on his friendship with Prince

26 Cole Skincare for Men: Review pg

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Regular Content Just Thinking

By Dorothy Robinson

Life is full of surprises, happiness, heartaches and pain.

Life is more important than you think it is.

What you make of it…

I could go on and on but I must stop there.

And always remember, Life is no game.

Take it serious not delirious

Cover Photo: Dominique Wilkins

Consciousness Magazine 3

04 Editor’s Page 05 Letters/ Awareness 09 Business/ Profile 09 Words of Encouragement 16 Technology / Arts and Culture 13 Health Solutions 20 Sports Community 22 Remembrance / Legends 26 Album-Book-Movie Review(s) 26 Know Your Rights Teen: College Spirit Section

Editor ’s Note :

Inspirational Words

CONSCIOUSNESS “Urban Inspiration”

STAFF

Founder & Editor Aaron Robinson

Senior Vice President Mozella Malone

Administrative Asst.

Julia M. Robinson Josephine Robinson Consultant Frank Robinson Fred Robinson

Public Relations Marketing / Promotions A&M Marketing Group

Advertising Agency A&M Marketing Group MediaBids

As human beings, it can be challenging for us to remain self-motivated or inspired at times due to various circumstances that may surround us. However, when we hear a compliment or inspirational words from others, these words can bring us joy and happiness, as well as hope and faith in our life. Inspirational words can come from many sources. They do not have to come direct, as they can come from strangers, family, friends, associates or people we may see or listen to at speaking engagements or on television. Or, it can come from reading or listening to music, which is a strong media in today’s society.

In this edition of Consciousness Magazine, let’s take a journey to learn about several individual’s life testimonies to discover what inspired and empowered them to become whom they are. What makes them do what they were set out to do? What drives them? Foremost, I know God is an enabler to their life. Also, in this edition of Consciousness Magazine, we will provide and share informative and self healing articles in hopes to enlighten you.

Again, thanks for reading your Consciousness Magazine, as it is our goal to inspire and continue to make a positive difference in society.

Thank you for all of your support. Stay encouraged!

Photographer

A&M Marketing Group

Graphic Design / Web Designer

A&M Marketing Group

Illustrator / Comics Eric Plaut

Proofreader

Tocarra Eldridge

Writers/Journalists

Tocarra Eldridge Dr. Shanessa Fenner Elder Lee M. Harris, Sr. Sirrocco Hogue Darnell Jodan Eric Plaut

Special Correspondent Russell Norman Hector De La Rosa

Reviews

Tocarra Eldridge Darnell Jordan Hector De La Rosa Aaron Robinson

Contributors

Stephen Garrett Marcus, M.D.

Special Thanks

Readers and Supporters

Aaron Robinson Founder & Editor

About Consciousness Magazine™

“Keeping our Pen on the Pulse of the Community” Consciousness Magazine “Urban Inspiration,” is committed to raising the level of consciousness of the residents in our community. The mission of Consciousness Magazine is to promote understanding, make a difference in society, touch hearts, as well as, emphasize positive celebrities and significant social figures through strong articles and compelling visuals. This publication embraces ethnicity and multicultural, in hopes of bringing different cultures together in peace and friendship.

Consciousness Magazine 4

Views expressed by advertisers and/or press release are their own and do not necessarily represent the views of Consciousness Magazine™. Consciousness Magazine™ will not be held responsible or liable for advertisers misinformation, misprints, or typographical errors, etc., herein contained.

Consciousness Magazine™ requires that all advertisement be in compliance with all applicable laws and be truthful and not offensive or detrimental to individuals, groups, or businesses. Consciousness Magazine™ reserve the right to revise, delete, objectionable words or phrases, and refuse any advertising it deems unacceptable.

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by Robinson Publishing, Inc. Postmaster: Send address Change and Subscription Orders to: P.O. Box 2496, Kankakee, Illinois 60901, Phone: (312) 715-7884 Email: info@consciousnessmagazine.com. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without written permission from the Publisher. ©2016 Consciousness Magazine™. All Rights Reserved.

Inspirational Article Valenzia Algarin’s article was a very good read. I was empowered by the interview. She inspires and encourages women and youth, no matter what situation that they may face to follow their dreams and goals. She has a drive and seems like a very fun person. Her interview was very inspiring.

Tammy Allison New York

Words of Encouragement Thank you very much for sharing Valenzia Algarin’s article. I have read that entire edition and it is very interesting, informative and overall is a good publication. It has everything a magazine needs. Sometimes, it seems challenging to know what any one is going through in this world. One simple word or a collaboration of words can encourage, give hope, inspire, and change the course of one’s destiny. That’s what Consciousness Magazine does. Thanks you!.

Tammy Woods Los Angeles

Inspiring Interview Over the years, I have gained an appreciation of learning from others.

I always try to remain a student of life. I learned a lot from Valenzia Algarin’s article. I know that she will continue to seek out quality film roles and have a successful acting career. Thanks again for sharing this inspiring interview.

Micheal Reese Chicago

A Source of Hope Congratulations for always bringing out such great editions that relate to everyone no matter what walks of life you’re enduring. This is a magazine that touches inner souls and encourages many to know that there are all kinds of resources for everyone. I love everything, from the content to the designs. Keep up the great work!!!

Sherrice Hardin Chicago

Write to us: We want to know what you’re thinking.

Send emails to info@consciousnessmagazine.com. Include your name, address, and telephone number. Letters may be edited for clarity and/or length. For Customer Service and Subscriptions visit us at www.consciousnessmagazine.com.

Consciousness Awareness:

Scholarship, Opportunity, Success

T

he need for financial assistance is becoming a major stressor for parents that have children that are eager to attend college. Although many students receive Financial Aid and qualify for loans, many are not taking advantage of scholarships.

After doing research on my own to find scholarships upon entering my freshman year of college, I found that the problem was not finding scholarships but applying for them. If you follow these steps your process of filling out an application will be an easy one.

When applying for scholarships it is important to read the application thoroughly. After you have gained general knowledge of each question, take time out to brainstorm.

Compose a list of all your goals and accomplishments. This compilation in the end will be the major component of your essay. When composing your essay make sure that all of your sentences are in complete form and are as detailed as possible.

After the essay is complete remember the key word, proofread. This essay is a writing sample of who you are and your academic ability. Look over it carefully to correct any errors. It is also good to have someone else critique your essay.

The last step is submitting the essay.

Once you submit the essay you are on your way. If you don’t get the scholarship don’t give up, keep applying, you have nothing to lose.

So don’t feel threatened when it comes to applying for a scholarship; the process is simple. Don’t miss an opportunity that can financially help you in higher education.

Written and interviewed by Tocarra Eldridge Photo Credit: Photographer Diana Ragland

“Someone You Should Know Recently, TNT announced the season 3 premiere for “The Last Ship” having a two-hour episode on Sunday, June 12th.

Jocko Sims, known for TV series and films such as “Crash,” “Masters of Sex”, and “Dawn of the Planet of the Apes,” just to name several, will return on the hit series with his amazing character that we know as Lt. Carlton Burk.

Outside of acting, Jocko hosts Apollo Night LA radio show with his mother Karen Sims, a.k.a. Cinnamon where he showcases all genres of unsigned/indie music artists. Some of the show’s past guest include Faith Evans, Ja Rule, Jamie Foxx and Kim Whitley. Also, he is a part of numerous community initiatives where he speaks on panels and makes countless appearances.

I had the opportunity to speak to Jocko Sims about his career and initiatives. Here is what the amazing actor has to share.

Tocarra Eldridge: You play the role of Lt. Carlton Burk on the TNT series “The Last Ship” which returns this summer for a 3rd season. Will your fans get to see anything new

and exciting about your character when you return next season?

Jocko Sims: Yes, one thing that is different this season is that Lt. Burk has a brother. His name is Cameron Burk and he’s played by LaMonica Garrett. He is a great actor; just a terrific guy. As far as the story goes, he has survived over the last four months being off the ship. He found a way to do it on his own, so he’s a tough guy. He comes back on the ship and we have to work together. So, you’re going to see a little bit of comedy, a little bit of sibling rivalry. We bump heads a little bit. LaMonica Garrett is just a great guy.

It’s fun working with him.

Tocarra: What do you like most about working with the producers and such a talented cast on the show?

Jocko: The first thing that you would notice if you are a guest when you come on this set is how close everybody is and how wonderful the energy and the spirit is on the set. A lot of the cast members were new. You have a lot of green people come on and they are grateful. The longer you are in this business the more you tend to expect things to go certain ways and it cannot be as friendly. Because we are all

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so excited and happy to have this job and be on this series, and especially to have a 3rd season coming up – the energy is great, the writing is awesome. They often tend to incorporate bits of your personality in the characters whenever they can fit it in.

Tocarra: When you where first booked for the show, did you have any challenges regarding getting into character as a lieutenant?

Jocko: This is probably the toughest character I’ve ever played. I usually play more cerebral characters like lawyers and detectives. Particularly this guy, Lieutenant Burk was really tough in the second episode where he’s being real hard on his guys. He’s yelling at them and getting them in shape. I didn’t believe that I could do it. Nonetheless, I went and I did the audition. I was quite surprised when I got the call and they said ‘you got it’. As far as preparing for the role I just decided on my own to get into better shape, to bulk up a little bit and pack some muscle on. Three years later I feel like I really identify with the character.

Tocarra: You also host a radio program called “Apollo Night LA” with your mother Karen Sims. How has that experience been for you working with you mother?

Jocko: Well, I like it because I’ve always been a fan of music first and foremost. I’ve always been a fan of making music. To have a format or a program where artists can demonstrate their talents and have it critiqued and possibly be seen by industry professionals is already something that I loved. Kudos to my mom who created the show! It was her idea originally for me to just host that show with my friends. I told her, “Well mom, I don’t want to do that. I want to focus on my acting and so forth.” So, she started it and I went to that first show just to help out, and I was hooked ever since. Here we are three years later, and the show is going and we’re having a lot of fun.

Tocarra: You also interview celebrities on your show as well. I see that you have interviewed JaRule. In the past I had the opportunity to interview him as well. Who are some of the individuals that you have had as a guest on your show?

Jocko: Ja Rule was on the first year way back when. That was actually my first celebrity interview, so I was pretty nervous. That’s my boy. He is real cool. He always comes through. In the past year, we’ve had Envogue, which was really big for me because I just remember being young and my mom playing all of Envogue’s tapes and just loving their music. They were always so good, so talented. To have them in the studio, I’m just looking at them like ‘wow’! I

remember being in San Antonio around the age of 9 or 10, and now here I am face to face with this talented powerhouse group. Same thing goes for Faith Evans. She came through and did the whole show with us. We had fun with her. Jamie Foxx was a fun episode. He is really really funny as you know. It’s been great. One more, KeKe Palmer was one of my favorites too. KeKe played my sister a couple years ago on a show called “Masters of Sex”. As I worked with her, I said ‘hey you gotta come do the show’. She said, ‘I would love to.’ We had a good time with her as well.

Tocarra: Last year, you participated in the “Men of TNT” panel at the American Black Film Festival (ABFF) in NYC. As a black actor and producer, do you feel as though we have come a long way when it comes to the film industry or do we still have a lot of ground to cover?

Jocko: I think it fluctuates. I think we have good seasons, I think we have bad seasons, and not so ok seasons. There was a time years ago when you turned on NBC or CBS and you saw “The Cosby Show”, “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air”.

You saw “Martin” and “In Living Color” on Fox which was huge and what launched amazing long careers – Jim Carrey, Jennifer Lopez, Jamie Foxx, and the Wayans Brothers.

I miss those days where you consistently had black entertainment or black culture consistently apart of something that everybody watched. “Def Comedy Jam” launched a lot of comedians and careers through Russell Simmons on HBO during the 90s as well. I feel like that kind of time has come and gone and I think it may be due to a few things. I think it has been this notion for a while with executives that Black shows aren’t watched by enough people, so therefore we can’t get enough ratings. We need to have these white shows and these white faces so that people will watch the shows. I think they’re wrong in that. They find that out time and time again, when they look at the movies that come out – “Think Like a Man I and II”, and all these movies and Black films that come out and end up being #1 at the box office. And that’s just the films. Then you go on television and you have shows like “Empire” which broke television records, not just for an African-American show, but just record breaking television with the viewers. It’s just incredible. They find that if they get the formula right, if they get the right writers and the right cast, it can work. Hopefully, they’ll take a look at these things and we’ll have a lot more of this stuff to come.

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Follow Jocko Sims on Twitter: @JockoSims Instagram: @JockoSims Facebook: JockoSimsOfficial Apollo Night LA: http://apollonightla.com

Comedian Jen Kirkman Q&A

By Consciousness Magazine

Q: You have a recently released book titled “I Know What I’m Doing and Other Lies I Tell Myself”. What was your inspiration to writing it?

A: The inspiration for the stories in this book sort of happened while I was writing. I started to notice that the stories had a theme. I took a risk, I wanted things to go a certain way and when they didn’t I had to be in acceptance about it, and laugh.

Q: Do you have a particular message that you mainly want to get out to your fans and readers?

A: The message is the message that I like getting, which is that you may be the only one you know with your particular problem, but you are not alone --- millions of people feel the same way you do. Also, without being an irresponsible idiot there is a way to take life less seriously, while taking giant risks, pursuing what you love, losing sometimes and having to move on. And what I mean by less seriously isn’t some dumb “live, laugh, love” pillow, but don’t beat yourself up if your desired results aren’t achieved. I’m not going to say everything happens for a reason, but if we don’t find the meaning in things not going our way...you might as well just never get out of bed because you’ll be miserable.

Q: Is there anything that you would like for the readers to take away once they read this amazing book?

A: That by the time they’ve read it, I’ve already gone through so many changes since I wrote those words, just like they will and we are all in this weird life experience together...even if we don’t know one another personally.

Q: “I Know What I’m Doing and Other Lies I Tell Myself” is known to be hilarious and emotionally profound. In your book, would the fans and readers learn to know more about

you and some personal aspects of your life?

A: This book is entirely about my personal life, so if they don’t learn something about me --- they weren’t paying attention. They’ll even learn about some bizarre changes my nether regions went through right before I turned 40.

Q: What are some of the goals that you look to achieve and accomplish with your new project?

A: As with any new project, I’m always working on them while promoting the old project. All I want to achieve with anything is happiness and to get paid doing it.

Q: As a successful stand-up comedian, I know it took a lot of hard work for you to get to where you are in your career.

Do you have any advice or words of encouragement for up and coming comedians?

A: The advice is that there is no advice! There are no shortcuts. Just get on stage all of the time and accept that you aren’t going to be funny right away. Even if your jokes are funny and you get laughs, accept that you have to be on stage SO MANY TIMES FOR YEARS before it “looks” normal. Don’t be impatient. Be willing to do comedy for no pay for the rest of your life. It has to be a passion project.

And don’t send your YouTube links of your stand-up out to famous stand-ups. They can’t help you. Don’t push your life. Let it unfold. And don’t worry about any of your peers who you’re jealous of --- they may end up going a different way and not being your competition anymore. And don’t worry about trying to work with people in the generations ahead of you - look to your left and right - your peers will be the working comics of the next generation. Get to know them. Don’t worry about impressing the old people. We are on our way out.

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www.JenKirkman.com

Business Profile

Real Estate Broker Gabriel Misters (Interview) Interviewed and written by Aaron Robinson – Editor

started landscaping my passion was real estate. For some odd reason it wasn’t working out during the time I started.

Therefore, I ventured out into landscaping and now I can climb back to my first love, which is real estate.

Aaron: How is the real estate market looking when it comes to purchasing homes?

Gabriel: The market is great. I would say it’s a sellers market.

It’s a lot of buyers, but the buyers seem to be waiting on the sellers to sale their homes. So, it’s definitely a seller’s market right now because you have a lot of hungry homeowners that’s looking to purchase.

When it comes to purchasing or selling a home, home buyers and sellers can definitely count on Gabriel Misters, an expert real estate agent who takes pride in his work; moreover, one’s who committed to helping clients buy or sell their home every step of the way. Over the last 13 years, Misters has been successful at operating his commercial landscape company Gabes Peculiar Cut (GPC) providing quality and astronomical services in the Chicagoland area.

Recently, Consciousness Magazine had the opportunity to speak with the ‘half man/half amazing’ real estate broker, Gabriel Misters, who is a man of integrity and also a wonderful individual who uphold the qualities of being honest, trustworthy, and knowledgeable when it comes to the real estate market. He has been enthused about his thriving realtor company Realtor4show that recently partnered with Keller Williams Preferred Realty. Here is what Gabriel Misters has to share with the readers.

Aaron Robinson: What was your inspiration to getting into real estate with Keller Williams Preferred Realty?

Gabriel Misters: Well, my inspiration was driven by so many people that I know and that I’ve come across that really haven’t experienced what they say is ‘the American dream,’ as far as owning their own home. With that being known, I was definitely driven to get into the industry to help as many people and families achieve that same goal that I was able to experience at such a young age.

Aaron: Would you say that’s what made you want to go into real estate as well?

Gabriel: Yes, that was one of the driving forces. Before I

Aaron: As a real estate broker, what makes Gabriel Misters so unique when it comes to buying and selling homes?

Gabriel: What makes me unique is my expertise in the industry. I’m peculiar, just like in landscaping. I feel that I’m different and that I set aside out of the ordinary when it comes to real estate. I’m not the average realtor. I think I can go by the slogan ‘half man/half amazing’. The half man is all of my expertise and all of my abilities. The amazing part is the Christ that is in me that drives me to take my business to higher heights. On top of that, I’m able to offer clients, not only with selling their home or buying a home, but I can also offer curb appeal when it talks about landscaping. Sometimes people will have homes on the market for so long and don’t know why it’s on the market for such a long time. A lot of times it’s not because it was priced wrong, it’s because the curb appeal could be off track. That Continue on page 12

Words-of-Encouragement

Inspirational Quote

By Robert Twonsend

I think that sometimes people get a little discouraged because things don’t go as they would like them to go. I think a part of that is really understanding you’re gonna have ups and you’re gonna have downs. If you can have the same joy in your heart when things go wrong as you have when things go right, you’re always gonna win.

(Excerpt taken from a prior interview with Consciousness Magazine.)

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Call 312-715-7884 or visit www.consciousnessmagazine.com Consciousness Magazine 9

Maurice G. Smith: A Man of Integrity Interviewed and Written by Aaron Robinson – Editor

D

uring a recent interview, I had the opportunity to speak with veteran actor Maurice G. Smith, a man filled with life, wisdom, love and lots of laughter. Many may know Smith as the character Reggie Brooks of “Meet the Browns.” In real-life he is one of the most humble down-to-earth individual’s - I have come to know. It was destined that he would find his calling as an actor. “I started off as a musician. I love music. I saw what music did to a crowd. I was always performing in things. In the Boy Scouts we had to do skits. I remember I was thinking that I was going to be a stand-up comedian. I was inspired by Spike Lee. I was like ‘man, I want to be Spike Lee, I want to be an actor and director.’ I had a cousin who had all these books and got me into reading books a lot. When I would see a movie “Jaws” or “The Shining”, my cousin, she had the books and I would read the book afterwards and my mom started noticing it. And I still do it today for certain movies,” inspiringly elucidates Smith.

Starting out in theater, Smith would eventually land roles in numerous productions such as “Cooley High – The Musical,” “Home”, The Old Settler,” and “The Piano Lesson”, where he won the Best Actor award in the Wilmington Drama League. Later, he would go on to acting in movies. To name several films, he has appeared in blockbusters such as Mr. Deeds, where he worked alongside Adam Sandler and also in the film Bruce Almighty, where he worked alongside Jim Carrey.

Smith sets himself apart from many actors with his charisma, having an amazing stage presence unlike any other, while bringing versatility to his craft. Being comedic and also playing serious roles, he elaborates on the various methods of acting when he acts for television shows and movies, as oppose to stage plays. “The attentions are different. For example, “Meet the Browns” leans itself to a theater style, because it’s a three camera sitcom.

Three camera sitcoms leans itself to the theater because it’s a little bit bigger. On film you have to be larger on stage because you have to hit that back wall. Whereas, for television, now I’m even a little bit closer to you, so it’s a little scaled down. Now you should always have subtleties in your work. You should not be over acting as they say,” articulates Smith.

Smith also coached in acting when he taught at Freedom Theater. He holds a B.A. in Theater Arts where he attended Westchester University. He also attended the prestigious institution of Mountview Theater Conservatoire in London, England, where he earned his postgraduate degree.

When it comes to television, the talented actor has had reoccurring roles in numerous popular shows such as “Viva Laughlin”, “In the Middle”, “The King of Queens”, “Back to You,” and “Meet the Browns,” where he plays the notable and loveable character Reggie Brooks. He speaks about his experience on the sitcom. “I loved to

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have been able to work with Tyler Perry. Playing Reggie, being able to do that was a blessing! That character was only supposed to be on for three episodes. With what that brother [Tyler Perry] is doing in Atlanta is amazing! He is definitely one of the key parts of bringing Hollywood to Atlanta in the south. He brought jobs. When I met him, I was like wow, this is Tyler Perry! My experience with him is that he is a funny dude. He is sharp on his business, but he is a funny dude.” Smith continues to speak highly of the show and cast he worked with. “I worked with Kim Fields, Chip Fields and Roger Bobb – great directors. David and Tamela Mann, they’re the greatest human beings on the earth! That love between them two, nothing is fake about it. I worked with Richard Roundtree, “Shaft”…wow! (laugh).These are the things that people are inspired to be inspired by. That’s all we need. That’s why our images are the way they are. I’m just so thankful for my fans that see that. I’m just thankful that my mom and dad raised me in such a way that it don’t go to my head. And if it do, I hope they check me,” joyfully expresses Smith.

Smith will play Mouse in the upcoming film “Better Criminal”. He speaks briefly about his character. “Mouse is a wild dude. Mouse isn’t as fun loving as Reggie (laugh)!

Mouse is a wild dude. He’s a smart guy who’s kind of in the criminal world. He’s into a little bit of drugs and a little bit of everything. The movie takes place around a detective who has a little bit of shadiness himself. My partner is his informer. Mouse is a very charming dude.

He can be direct, playful and he cares about his friends.

Playing that dude was fun! He’s not a killer or a pushover. It’s a crime drama movie and that’s the role I play as Mouse. Then again, it was another opportunity where it was supposed to be a small role and I ended up making it to the end of the movie. The director kept bringing me back for different things. So, it was great! He was only supposed to be in the beginning.”

Besides acting, Smith has a passion for giving back. He stays active in various community efforts and initiatives.

He is also a Kappa and remains active in the church community. “There are things that are being worked on that I’m excited about. There are foundations that I would like to put together because I’m into giving back. That’s my biggest passion. I definitely want to get together some sort of scholarship. I know how hard it is for kids to do theater. I definitely want to do something for diabetes and health issues,” genuinely says Smith.

“

”

Stay humble; stay focused.

As our conversation comes to an end, Smith shares some powerful heart-felt advice and words-of-encouragement to upcoming actors and actresses that are looking to make a living from the film industry. “It is doable. That’s the main thing. You have to know yourself. Trust yourself. Believe in God! Have faith in it. Make sure you study your craft.

Have things that you’re hoping for that you can always be excited about. If it’s getting that Tony, work toward getting that Tony. Have goals. Vision yourself doing it; study. If you can’t afford to go to a university or a theater school, get in those plays, get in those classes… do those cast director workshops. Get it however you can get it. Make yourself a character and put it on YouTube. Get books. If you decide to go to the major cities, have a plan. Have a support base. I remember when I first got here [L.A.] I was on the set with an audition. Craig T. Nelson and John Amos both told me, ‘just hang in there, it’s going to come around. Everyone always gets a shot.’ The thing is you don’t know how many people has packed up and left L.A. and there shot was just around the corner. Stay humble; stay focused. Don’t give up, unless you are at your end.

Have your business affairs together. Know that this is a team effort.”

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Real Estate Broker Gabriel Misters (Interview) (Continues from page 9)

sets me aside from just the average person that wants to take you around and show you houses.

Aaron: Speaking of buying homes, when it comes to purchasing a home what are some of the factors that homebuyers often overlook?

Gabriel: A lot of times people overlook the tax on the property. Sometimes they’re like ‘hey, I like this home; I’d like to buy it’, but in the end the tax bracket is way above their budget. Many times they also overlook the school districts and the neighborhood.

Aaron: Do you have any advice that you would like to share with homebuyers who are looking to buy and own a home?

Gabriel: Yes. To each person looking to buy a home, definitely do your homework, study the market, know where you desire to live, look at school districts and neighborhoods, get the going interest rates, and look into their programs that the government has as far as grant money that they have available for first time homebuyers. Also, do your homework to find a realtor that’s not only looking for a commission, but somebody that will look out for the best interest of them and their family. It’s more than just about a commission; it’s about building relations with a family. A deal that I do today can very well follow me five years up the road, because either they’re going to tell someone about me or they’re going to come back to me again because I took the time out to definitely do the homework for them and make the transition real smooth.

Aaron: You’re always giving back to the community in various ways. Would you like to briefly discuss those initiatives?

Gabriel: Sure. When it comes to the Salvation Army, the church, United Way, etc., I definitely like to contribute where other people have opportunities to achieve things that they can’t achieve by working, whether it’s part-time or full-time.

So, I give a lot of finances to United Way, churches, the Salvation Army, and just people in general. It’s not all about finances. I also dedicate a lot of time ministering to the football teams and basketball teams in different communities.

Outside of just finances, it’s time and being committed. I’m on call so if for whatever reason someone needs me I try to make myself available in the community. So, give me a call and I’ll come running.

Gabriel: One thing I would say is to stay focused, be strong and very courageous, because it’s going to be people along the way that will try to deter you from reaching your goal, but you have to have this thing I call tenacity to not accept no for an answer. Always seek for knowledge. With knowledge and understanding you can go a long way.

Aaron: Gabe, before we end the interview, is there anything else that you would like to add that we haven’t spoken about?

Gabriel: One thing I would like to say to the community and the surrounding areas is - if you’re looking for someone who cares, someone who has a passion to succeed, someone who’s very detailed and thorough, I would definitely say ‘hey, give me a call.’ I’m from the area, Pembroke, Illinois, you know down the dirt roads, and I was able to achieve a whole lot of things in my 40+ years. I would like to say check out the website www.gpc4u.com. Look at my before and after pictures with landscaping. As far as real estate, go on my website and see the people that I’ve helped get homes. I believe in giving back from where I came from.

Other than that, I’m an easy going guy and ready to make some moves.

Aaron: Thank you so much Gabriel. This is a great interview.

Gabriel: No problem. I appreciate this opportunity with you.

For more information contact Gabriel Misters at 708-514-7937 or 708-798-1111.

Email: Gabemisters@kw.com Website: www.Realtor4show.com

Aaron: What words of advice or encouragement would you give to individuals who are looking to be successful as yourself?

Consciousness Magazine 12

HEALTH Solutions

O

ften, it’s not cancer that kills; it’s the complications of cancer, says physician Stephen Garrett Marcus, a senior biotechnology research executive.

Stephen Garrett Marcus, M.D

Complications are common and become more frequent and severe if cancer progresses or spreads, he says. Spotting them early and treating them quickly can lessen their impact and save lives.

“Patients and their families are the first line of defense; they need to know what to watch for and seek treatment immediately,” says Marcus, author of a comprehensive new reference, Complications of Cancer (www.DrStephenMarcus.com). “Many can be successfully treated if they’re addressed at the first signs of trouble.”

What to watch for? Marcus describes the symptoms of six common complications: • Malignant spinal cord compression: Compression of the spinal cord is caused by a malignant tumor or by bones in the spine damaged by cancer. Symptoms may include pain in the neck or back and weakness in the arms or legs. This is a medical emergency and should be promptly treated, or patients risk paralysis. Cancers of the lung, breast, and prostate, commonly spread to the spine and are the most likely cancers to produce spinal cord compression.

• Neutropenic sepsis: This condition often occurs during chemotherapy. The most common signs of infection are fever, chills, difficulty breathing, a new persistent cough, a sore throat, or a change in mental clarity. An easy way to lower risk is to keep hands clean. If there is an intravenous access line in place, it is important to keep the area clean.

• Pulmonary embolism: Symptoms usually include sudden, severe shortness of breath associated with pain in the chest area. Treatment may include supplemental oxygen and blood pressure support, if necessary, and administration of blood thinning “anticoagulant” medications.

• Bacterial pneumonia: Cancer or treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation and steroid medications can diminish a person’s ability to prevent the growth of dangerous bacteria in the lungs and increase the risk of pneumonia. Symptoms can include cough, fever and chills. Antibiotics will generally cure pneumonia caused by the most common types of bacteria. If the person also is having severe difficulty breathing or low blood pressure, hospitalization and intravenous antibiotics may be required.

• Intestinal obstruction: The most common first symptom is bouts of severe pain in the middle of the abdomen.

Treatment includes intravenous fluids and along with a tube passed into the stomach to decompress the intestine by withdrawing excess fluid and air. Emergency surgery may be necessary to relieve the obstruction.

• Delirium, stupor, and coma: The most common causes of these symptoms in people with cancer are problems with blood chemistry, spread of cancer to the brain, side effects of medications and infections. These complications have various treatments after the cause is identified.

“Attitude is the great wild card for surviving cancer,” Marcus say, “both in vigilance for possible complications, and the courage to keep fighting.”

About Stephen Garrett Marcus, M.D.

Stephen Garrett Marcus, M.D. received his medical degree from New York Medical College and completed a medical oncology fellowship at the University of California in San Francisco. As a senior research executive in the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industry since 1985, he played a lead role in developing Betaseron as the first effective treatment of multiple sclerosis, and has led multinational research teams for other treatments. Marcus is the president and CEO of a biotechnology company developing new treatments for cancer and other life-threatening illnesses.

Consciousness Magazine 13

N BA Hall o f F am er

Dominique Wilkins

Educate the Masses about Diabetes Interviewed & written

by Aaron Robinson - Editor

Consciousness Magazine 14

A

s the statue of NBA legend Dominique Wilkins stands tall in the main entrance of the Philips Arena, the Hall of Famer continues to stand tall and leap high with his calling to educate the masses that are affected with the disease we recognize as diabetes. Shortly after his astonishing NBA career, Wilkins was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes and since then has been raising awareness in various communities. He has teamed up with the world’s leading diabetes care company, Novo Nordisk, to educate those living with diabetes about the importance of diabetes management and creating a Diabetes Dream Team. Within his countless community efforts, Wilkins also works closely with the Center for Health Transformation, JDRF, and his foundation, The Dominique Wilkins Foundation where he is active with local and national charity endeavors when it comes to health.

Over the course of Wilkins’ basketball career, he has earned infinite awards, achievements, honors and recognitions. Still vital in the NBA, he is a color analyst for the Atlanta Hawks games and acts as the Hawks Vice President of Basketball, where he advises various areas of management within the franchise.

I had the opportunity to speak with the 9-time All-Star Dominique Wilkins while he was headed to the American Diabetes Association’s Expo in Chicago. “The greatest dunker of all times” shares an abundance of knowledge, helpful tips and advice, as well as gives encouraging words for those diagnosed with diabetes. I am honored to introduce to you the “Human Highlight Film”, Dominique Wilkins.

Aaron Robinson: While playing in the NBA, did you receive any symptoms prior to being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes?

Dominique Wilkins: No, it was a year after retirement when I found out I was diabetic. When I was a player, I think because I trained so much, it was hard to detect.

Aaron: When you became diagnosed with type 2 diabetes did you have to make a lifestyle change or did your lifestyle basically remain the same?

Dominique: I had to make a lifestyle change. When I was playing I ate anything I wanted, but I was always training so I just burned those calories off and didn’t pay close attention to my diet or how my body felt.

When I retired, I wasn’t training anymore, but I was still eating the same foods – so my doctor told me one thing, he said ‘you have to make a lifestyle change right now’! I changed my diet, started exercising and I got on medication.

Aaron: Living with diabetes, are you still able to live a healthy, normal and productive life?

Dominique: I put it this way, I feel better now than I did 17 years ago. Because I made that lifestyle change.

One of the things that really helped me is my partnership with Novo Nordisk. It’s been a wonderful relationship.

It has given me a platform to talk about diabetes nationally, and to continue talking about my own bout with diabetes. When my pill wasn’t getting me to my goal, I worked with my doctor to find a treatment that was right for me. Now I talk with others about understanding when certain medications are not getting you to your goal, you need to find a treatment plan that works for you. That’s why I am speaking at the American Diabetes Association EXPO so that people learn about healthy options and diabetes management.

One of those healthy options can be found on our website, DiabetesDreamTeam.com, which gives people the opportunity to learn how to build their own “Dream Team” through diet, exercise and education.

“

Don’t wait for something bad to happen before you act.

Be proactive.

”

Aaron: What are some of the factors that you stress at your lectures that people may not know about when it comes to preventing and living with diabetes?

Dominique: I think the thing that is most important is getting screened, because you have to get screened to see where your health is, to see if you are a person that is prone to diabetes or if you have an elevated sugar level. Screenings tell you if something goes wrong and how you can fix it. That’s the thing I stress more than anything. Secondly, when you make a lifestyle change, that doesn’t mean you have to go to the gym and become some muscle man (laugh). Just get yourself physically moving. People do different things as far as physical activity to keep them healthy. You have to find out what’s comfortable for you.

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Aaron: What words of encouragement would you share with people in hopes of battling or beating this disease?

Dominique: I give them the life experience that I went through with my father and grandfather both dying from diabetes. I’ve seen the hardships in a family affected by diabetes. I share my story and say look, you don’t want this to be you, and you don’t want this to be someone in your family. So, don’t wait for something bad to happen before you act. Be proactive.

Aaron: If you were diagnosed with this disease while in the NBA, do you think it would have impacted your performance? If so, what advice would you give to athletes that currently have this disease?

Dominique: I don’t know if it would have affected my performance. I do think it’s important that everyone – athlete or not – pays attention to their body and gets screened for diabetes. As a professional athlete, you have access to a team of health experts and you should take advantage of it. For others, you should talk to your doctor about a diabetes screening and you can visit DiabetesDreamTeam.com to download my “Coaches’ Clipboard” that has tips for creating your own “Dream Team” of experts.

Aaron: Outside of speaking, and since retiring from the NBA, what are some of the things you have enjoyed partaking in?

Dominique: Outside of the NBA my calling is health

care and diabetes and particularly with Novo Nordisk?

Dominique: That’s my calling – having the opportunity to help educate people about living with diabetes. I’ve also launched my own brand of signature basketball courts with CBA Sports. That’s been a big thing for me that I’m very passionate about.

Aaron: You are involved in many community initiatives.

Do you have anything currently new and exciting going on with The Dominique Wilkins Foundation?

Dominique: I’m still heavily involved in the community – sit on a couple of organizational boards. I also support some of the major foundations like Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, Women’s Sports Foundation, the American Heart Association, and the National Endocrinology Association. I also support several different charities – Big Brother and Big Sister, and also Special Olympics.

Aaron: Before we close the interview, would you like to share anything that we haven’t discussed?

Dominique: I definitely encourage people to make changes, make a lifestyle change and work with their doctors to find and stick to a treatment plan that works for them. I think that’s the biggest thing for us here.

Aaron: Thank you for your time Mr. Wilkins.

Dominique: I appreciate this man! Thank you. www.diabetesdreamteam.com

Consciousness Magazine 16

Sons 2 The Grave Interviewed and written by Tocarra Eldridge

Interviewed and written by Darnell Jordan

W

ebster’s Dictionary defines art as “something that is created with imagination and skill and that is beautiful or that expresses important ideas or feelings.”

To groundbreaking digital artist and fashion designer Edo, “everything is art.”

I initially met Edo at an art show in February of this year.

I instantly observed the passion that he had for his craft while he presented his pieces. After getting to know him better, I found myself further impressed with the amount of focus that he has. He possesses a confidence and polish that most don’t acquire until the age of 30 or older.

In a short amount of time, Edo has managed to create a unique brand that boldly represents a radical perception of the world we live in.

Born and raised in Chicago IL, he started as a pre-teen with a love of building and doodling. “I would always build go-carts, play submarines, and all these different things, but I would build them out of things I found in the alley,” says Edo. At the age of 19, he realized that being an artist was more than a hobby for him. It had become a way of living. He

managed to learn the basics, and develop his skill without any formal training His love of anime inspired his attraction to digital art.

This particular art form celebrates his childhood love of cartoons like Yu-Gi-Oh and Pokémon. “Illustration gives me a nostalgic feeling of a time where it used to all make sense, because you know, once you grow up, they try to cut your wings off.”

Edo’s first art show was held on November 14, 2015 for his Infinite Inception Pt 1 collection. The concept for this collection was inspired from design work that he created for Fat Tiger boutique owner, Joe Fresh Goods. The collection consists of 10 portraits of his Chicago peers who have influenced him. The 10th piece is a portrait of his mother, which received a special unveiling. Over 200 people attended, resulting in all of the pieces being sold, including re-prints. His proceeding collections are Emotion: Nostalgia, They Taught Me Nothing Pt 1, and Infinite Illusion. His next collection, Infinite Inception 2: The Lost, will debut on June 25th.

Influenced by legendary artists such as Keith Haring and Andy Warhol, he describes his art as “organized chaos.”

His art pieces contain subliminal messages that aren’t all

Consciousness Magazine 18

immediately found. Each time you revisit one of his pieces, you’re likely to find a new message that you didn’t catch before. “I don’t necessarily want to give all the messaging away, because I feel like people from generations down will be able to unlock messages. It’s infinite, infinite being forever.” This unique effect is what keeps his art fresh and inevitably thought of as timeless. Other art influences of his include The Simpsons creator Matt Groening, and Kaws.

At first glance, it’s very apparent as to how much Edo’s personal style coincides with his art. His exploration of the fashion world actually began before his art career. He started fashion designing based on his love of clothes, and the many ways his view of the world could be expressed. Pharrell, Raf Simons, Rick Owens, and Jeremy Scott are a few of his top fashion influences.

His “clean, futuristic” style manifests in his clothing line, Emperion. The line is a mind-blowing display of the way he envisions people in the future will dress. Emperion, which means freedom, has a variety of standout pieces including circle book-bags, holographic caps, and see-through rain-coats. He is planning a special re-launch of the line in the near future with a fashion showcase, Futurera.

Edo’s success definitely hasn’t come without its ups and downs. The biggest challenge for him as an upcoming artist is the new found attention that he gets. Respecting the connection he has with the public through his talent, while maintaining a level of privacy within his personal life is a constant struggle. He also finds the balancing act of business and artistry to be tricky. “The business side is brutal. I fall out of love with art when it comes to business,

but you gotta do business. So, you just gotta suck it up.”

The increased demand of his time has helped him realize how important it is to have assistance. He is now backed by an all-star team that consists of a manager, art manager, publicist, and photographer.

Although he has accomplished a lot of amazing things, Edo feels like he has yet to tap into his full potential. Moving forward, he envisions having his own studio, which would house both his art and fashion designs. He hopes to someday have the opportunity to create murals on buildings. He also plans to expand his futuristic style into upcoming art and fashion shows by incorporating holograms.

There is no doubt that his career will take him across the world, but he vows to always keep Chicago close to his heart. He wants to influence the city with his thoughtprovoking art, specifically the youth.

As a proud member of the collective creative group Treated Crew, Edo doesn’t desire to be shackled down to one identity. He was once afraid of sharing the many gifts he has. This was due to fear of his creativity not being understood or accepted. He now embraces that uncertainty.

“Artists express whatever they feel, no matter what people think. That’s the freedom of it. I’m going to wake-up, and create something because of how I feel. You may like it, you may not like it, but I did it my way, and I feel good. I got out what I needed to get out.”

Words of a legend in the making. Stay tuned to the world according to Edo!

Consciousness Magazine 19

Sports Community

Interviewed & written by Aaron Robinson - Editor

H

aving the drive and will to not give up no matter what circumstances occurred is what retired NFL football player Vernon Turner lived by at a young age. Under horrific circumstances, he was conceived by a mother who was gang raped. This eventually led his mother down a road of prostitution, as well as resulting to drug addiction. Unfortunately, she lived a short life.

As time progressed, Vernon did not want to see his siblings split up in foster homes after his aunt could no longer care for them. He either had to “go hard or go home.” Losing his family was not an option.

dreams and aspirations. Well, I didn’t have a normal kid life. Instead, I was braiding hair and changing diapers. I was care-giving at the age of 9. My mom was a prostitute and drug addict, so I had to do things that normal kids didn’t do at that age.

Playing for the NFL was the answer for the strong-minded Vernon. The NFL seemed so far out of reach; however, it was not, so as the enthused Vernon maximized his workouts and took advice from his high school coach, as well as the NFL legend Walter Payton. As a running back for 8 years, Vernon has played for teams such as, the Los Angeles Rams, Detroit Lions and Tampa Bay Buccaneers, just to name a few.

I knew without a shadow of a doubt [that] I had what it too when I found out that my brothers and sisters were going to be split apart to live in different homes. It was no if’s, and’s or buts’. I set my alarm clock for 2 or 3’oclock in the morning to do workouts. I did 3 or 4 workouts per day. I ran into a tree full speed and hit my head, head first, just a part of my training regimen. I did anything and everything that I possibly could to get ready for the National Football League. It was truly the fact that I knew if I didn’t make it, I would lose my family.

I had the privilege to interview the retired NFL football player and newly author. He leads by example and continues to be a role model for many. As an accomplished and once successful football player, he can be truly recognized as GREAT - in confidence, spirit and heart. Here is what Mr. Turner had to say about his life, career and recent published book, The Next Level: The Game I Had To Play, during a recent interview with Consciousness Magazine.

Aaron Robinson: Where did you discover or find the strength within to not give up on your dream?

Vernon Turner: I tell you what…you know every kid has

AR: When did you realize you had what it takes to be a NFL Player?

VT: My mom died when I was a sophomore in high school, and my step dad died when I was in college. So, I turned to the game that I fell in love with.

AR: What were some of the strategies you used to prepare yourself for the league?

VT: Well, I turned to some unbelievable people. First off, my high school football coach was an unbelievable influence in my life. He guided me the right way the whole time when my mom and dad passed. I leaned on him just for mental guidance and strength to keep me focused. When I turned pro, he turned me on to a couple agents, and they just kept it real with me. They said, “look you are coming

Consciousness Magazine 20

from a small school, you’re not gonna get drafted, nobody’s gonna ask you to go in All-Star games. No one’s gonna ask you to work out. You’re just gonna have to crash the party, but before you crash the party you have to be mentally and physically prepared.” So, they got me mentally ready for the game. And I also turned to Walter Payton. He was my idol growing up, and I wrote him a letter. And a few weeks later he replied. I couldn’t believe it! I was sitting here reading a letter from Sweet. He gave me his words of advice and words of encouragement. He also gave me his training regimen, which in turn, I don’t wish that on my worse enemy. I put my body through total pure hell. To look back and think about what I went through to get ready for the National Football League - I had to have had a few screws loose.

to give you opportunities. He is going to give you athletic abilities. He is going to give you intellectual extraordinary capabilities. He is going to give you all these types of gifts. What you do with them is a totally different deal. My thing is...I didn’t know what he gave me. He just gave me will! My gift was the God-given heart and spirit to follow through with anything that was thrown at me. I don’t know if I was so much of a great athlete. I think I just outworked everyone, and I out-hearted a lot of people. Once you find your niche and you know that’s your passion, you go for it.

AR: When Walter Payton was alive, what was some of the advice he gave you that stuck with you?

VT: Take all the negativity that’s going to be thrown at you and use it for fuel. As a Freshman Aaron, I was 5 foot 6 and 96 ½ pounds. I used to tuck weights in my sweatpants so that when I weighed in I would be able to pass the weigh in, so the coach would let me play. I was that much of an underdog. When people looked at my stature they already counted me out. But, the one thing that they failed to do is measure the size of my heart. That’s how I beat them time in and time out. That’s the reason why I played professional football for 8 years. Through the grace of God, and with all the things that I’ve been through…I’m living the dream man!

project that I talked about back in 1994. I actually told a reporter that I was going to write a book about my life story.

I hope and pray that people can go out and pick up a copy.

Go to www.VernonTurner.com. It’s in every format from audio to paperback, hardback, mp3 download. You will definitely get something out of it by reading my life story.

To this day I still scratch my head about it; I’m like how in the world did I make it to the other side. If I can help one person, writing my book and telling my story to the world is going to be well worth it.

“

AR: Would you like to add anything in regards to your book The Next Level: The Game I Had To Play?

VT: Well, the only thing I can say about this is that this is a

Through the grace of God, and with all the things that I’ve been through…I’m living the dream man!

AR: Do you have any advice for anyone who is trying to be a professional athlete?

VT: Yes. Definitely! First off, take advantage of every opportunity that is given to you. You’re not going to know when the next opportunity is going to knock on your door.

When it does come before you, you take advantage of it. You respect the people that raised you. Respect your parents.

Tell them you love them. You praise them. Because, I am living the rest of my life with guilt and regret that I fought with both of my parents before they died. In fact, one of the situations that I had was I used to wish my mom dead. You know, she was on drugs. The last conversation I had with my mom, I wished her dead. And 3 days later after I did that she was gone. So, I say to those young athletes and young people out there…young man, young woman, you respect the people that raised you. You pay the thing forward.

AR: Some people say we need more doctors and engineers and that we have enough African-Americans playing sports.

How would you respond to this statement?

VT: My thing is...that’s borderline stereotype. That’s borderline profiling when it comes to stuff like that. God is going to give each and every individual a gift. He is going

”

AR: Would you like to add anything else before we close?

VT: I just want to make sure that everybody understands and really get the message that we discussed as far as giving everything that you have, taking advantage of every opportunity, respecting and loving your parents, and don’t be afraid to tell them that you love them. And then pay the things forward.

Help the next man or woman. And then live your lives…live your dream!

Live it 110%, because you only have one life to live. You might as well live it full.

AR: Vernon, thank you so much for the interview. Your story is going to be a blessing for many and touch many people lives.

VT: Thank you Aaron, it was a pleasure.

Consciousness Magazine 21

Interviewed & Written by Aaron Robinson – Editor

L

ast fall, 3-time Grammy Award-winning vocal/ instrumental ensemble Sounds of Blackness released the song “Black Lives Matter” along with the video that has been receiving much praise on YouTube.

About a month ago, the inspirational famed group also released “Royalty,” a song dedicated to the astounding musician Prince with a special collaboration with students from HSRA (High School for Recording Arts). The video can be viewed online at www.soundsofblackness.org. In the future, the group is looking to release their first live CD featuring ACWC (A Cappella Choir of Wiley College) along with many other projects having many talents and collaborations.

Gary Hines, music director of Sounds of Blackness, a man

filled with integrity and who has a great heart and soul, remembers a friend and brother in spirit, the late international mega star Prince. He speaks of how substantial Prince was in helping put the Twin Cities on the map, his amazing character and personality as his fans remember his phenomenal artistry and the “Minneapolis sound”. The iconic figure was an incredible actor and brought many cultures together with his music.

Most importantly, he was a humanitarian, a side of him that was sometimes overlooked as he gave to countless charities. Our Prince definitely made a tremendous difference in hundreds of thousands of people’s lives.

Here is what Gary Hines has to share about his profound memories of Prince and much more.

Consciousness Magazine 22

Aaron Robinson: How did Prince and you become friends and what were you guys friendship like?

Gary Hines: I was entering junior high school, the building that is now called Sebathani Community Center used to be Bryant Junior High School. I attended there, then later went down the street a few blocks to Minneapolis Central High School. Bryant Junior High School and Central High School had a very interactive relationship - the bands, the sports teams, in terms of practices. Sometimes we even had joint practices and joint concerts. That’s where I first became aware of Prince and I was of course at Central High School and kept hearing about this young dude that was just monstrous on all the instruments and just a virtuoso. Long story short, I certainly know that I was like 5 years ahead of him and because of the interaction of the schools, I was directly aware of him.

Soon after, I met him as he had his band and they would play throughout the twin cities. Prince was also a great basketball player despite his height. He was on the varsity team in high school, which surprises a lot of people.

Aaron: What was Prince’s character and personality like?

Gary: In many ways, Prince was a regular guy. Despite all of his tremendous musical gifts, [he was] just a brilliant mind and always on top of things. Of course he loved basketball and loved the sports scenes here [in Minneapolis] that’s with the purple, you know, the Vikings and all of that. He had a great sense of humor - a prankster. [He was] great in disciplinarian and real focused when it came to the music. He was always open to and always soliciting collaborations or ideas to incorporate into whatever his ideas was. A lot of times, and very in fact often times, especially the people that he really didn’t know or wasn’t close to, he was very quiet

and reflective. But that quietness, that was never to be distance. When he was quiet, he was just reserved in that ‘mind going’ kind of thing.

Aaron: Did he have any children?

Gary: He did not. I believe from a second marriage, they lost his baby boy. It had an impact on him. It was right at birth. I know that that was really hard on him. It came out to some degree in the press but not to a large degree.

Again, that was a private matter family kind of thing.

“

He would talk about the condition of our people. Anonymously, he believed in helping people.

”

Aaron: Speaking of private, we all know that Prince was a private individual. Why was he such a private person?

Gary: The private part of him was nothing new in fact.

I knew him as he grew into his international fame so on and so forth. Relatively that I know of almost, nothing never really changed. He always had that private side to him. Again, despite having that, in addition to having the regular guy side of him, he always had that personal side where he would be very introspective in terms of what he was doing, what he was thinking until it was time for him to share it, what was on his mind, and what direction he wanted it to go - whether if it was a project, function undertaken, or an event. When the flood gates would open (laugh) - I use to tease him about this. It would be nothing for him to call me at 2 or 3 in the morning with an idea that he might have for Sounds of Blackness or even to just

Consciousness Magazine 23

talk about his phase or what was going on, especially in the black community in the world.

Aaron: The question that many would like to know is, what inspired his fashion sense?

Gary: You know what (laugh), actually a number of sources. He would tell you that he was very very cultural influenced. When you look at Prince, especially a stage show related to his wardrobe, you would see some James Brown, you would see some Little Richard, you would see some Sly Stone, you would even see some Cab Callaway.

You can even see a little of the British Invasion, as well as haute couture in his own interpretation of it.

Aaron: What do you think Prince would like his fans to remember him by?

Gary: I think, even right on par, his faith. He was very very very devoted and very sincere about his walk with God. His music was reflective, a expression of his heart and soul. As the musician side of him, obviously he would want us to remember the music but in the context I think of its meaning. [He would want us to remember] his caring for people, a caring for all people, in additional, a special caring for black folks. Those midnight phone call conversations, a lot of them more often than not, opposed to being focused on music, was focused on talking about God and talking about the condition of our people. He would want us to remember his humanity - to put it in one word. His music was a vehicle for that. He really took serious of what Paul Robeson quoted… “All true artists have a great responsibility to their people.” Prince embodied that.

Aaron: As a humanitarian, did he ever discuss anything to you about any of the charities that he was a part of?

Gary: He talked about it, but not specifically who he was going to help. He would talk about the condition of our people. Anonymously, he believed in helping people. He would never say “okay I’m going to give x-amount of dollars to organization number A”. One of the things that he was adamant about and that he pressed me about and I appreciated that from him was for Sounds of Blackness, like Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis did for us is to never change. Prince would always say, “Man always keep a focus on these young bloods out here, our youth and their identity and heritage. Make sure they know their history and keep that.” And really if you listen to the lyrics of “Royalty” that is really what we are talking about descendants of kings and queens and royal blood flow thru your veins. Even though he was not a part of that recording, he certainly was a part of the reinforcing of our mind set to go in that direction. We are dedicating “Royalty” to his memory and his legacy.

Aaron: Do you have any profound memories of Prince that stick out to you that you will never forget about?

Gary: In addition to the lengthy late nights - early morning phone conversations pouring out heart and soul, then some of the projects we were blessed with him on was like the Batman soundtrack. I’ll never forget he called and said they had this really important project that he wanted us to work with him on. At the time, he couldn’t even tell us what it was, he told us afterwards. He said we probably would stay an hour or two in the studio; of course we were there all night (laugh). We had a great time! In fact, Sheila E actually engineered; she was at the console much of the session and Prince was producing. That was on a Halloween.

I will never forget that. Of course there are countless others, but those are among the standouts.

Aaron: Did Prince ever come to you asking you for any significant advice regarding his music career or life?

Gary: Advice, no, but he would discuss it and be open about music. He was always clear, very knowledgeable and focused about where he wanted to go, what he wanted to do and then how he wanted and needed for it to happen; especially the independent thing as artists. God bless him, he encouraged us when we went independent, Sounds of Blackness. He kept his ears to the street. Frequently, he reminded me in his speaking of Roger Troutman because both of them would often say your whole name throughout the conversation (laugh). He encouraged us with our independence. I will never forget that. He would say ‘you can do it and just be very positive’.

Visit Sounds of Blackness at www.SoundsofBlackness.org Twitter: @soundsoblckness Instagram: @officialsoundsofblackness

Consciousness Magazine 24

By Hector De La Rosa @11journ_list

“M

usic is my life’s passion. It is my first love,” reference the effervescent personality, extraordinary actor, and startling vocalist Terrell Carter. “I look at entertainment like it is second nature to me.” For some, it takes time to discover their passion, pursue it, and hone their craft. For Carter, he is a natural, a pro- a star is born.

Aretha Franklin, Donny Hathaway, and Shirley Murdock asserts, “I do not mind being compared to Chris Brown or Trey Songz. [However], I follow what I know is [implanted] in my heart and soul.” Mr. Carter strongly feels his sincerity and modesty is what makes the public appreciative of his artistry.

Though many artists conform to the standards of the music industry, Mr. Carter is one of few who refuse to compromise his ethics, value, and worth as an artist foremost Child of GOD wishing there were more artists that foster his mentality. “I do not follow trends.” He rebuffs the notion of “sounding like [the next] Trey Songz or J. Holiday.” Preferably, “capture the essence of ‘soul’ that you would get out of the greats like Stevie Wonder and the distinctiveness of Michael Jackson at the height of his career.” The powerhouse vocalist inspired by the likes of

What enhance Terrell Carter’s uniqueness are his ingeniousness, integrity, and guileless views on music and popular culture without the sugarcoating. “I am one of the few artists that is valorous to niche a inimitable sound.”

He does not recall “Michael Jackson simulating Stevie Wonder in style or sound or Mr. Wonder mimetic of Jeffrey Osborne.” Therefore, originality lacks where artists hound trends. “I think the method in which we do music now does not have the same significance or impact as before,” mentioned Carter in deep thought. “I do not get that same feeling with today’s music as I did when listening to a Shirley Murdock’s ‘As We Lay’ record.”

“The production of a song would speak for itself before a singer like Prince started to adlib or croon because of the organic structure. There was more soul and live instrumentation involved that came from creating that specific record,” avows Mr. Carter with careful precision. It used to be a group of people involved in the process of recording a song, album, or demo. Today’s technology allows an amateur to set up a recording studio in the basement of his or her home to record. “A person using an MPC or beat machine does not produce that desired quality in sound cutting out the creative process” that goes along with working with knowledgeably musicians.

Terrell Carter explains that his music industry peers have little to no awareness of their music heritage pioneered by the greats of jazz, blues, and gospel legends. He also adds, “Music is controlled by people who do not craft music.”

The music of yesterday is considered timeless recalling there were so many classic records. Sadly, there are hardly any classic records made in this time of era. “I could not bear in mind what was a summer hit three years ago,” states the once background singer for Fred Hammond with quiet laughter.

Consciousness Magazine 25

Reviews

Product: Cole Skincare for Men by Darnell Jordan finish. I only wish that it was an SPF moisturizer. You will definitely need to apply an SPF on top of this moisturizer if you will be in the sun.

Skincare has always been important to me. I feel that it’s essential to lead each day with a clean, clear, and inviting face. That can only be done with an effective skincare regimen.

The vast amount of products on the market can make it overwhelming when choosing the right one for your individual needs. This makes my most recent find even more exciting.

I recently had the pleasure of trying Cole Skincare for Men. The line was created by Cole Patterson, a highly-acclaimed esthetician and celebrity makeup artist/groomer. She envisioned this line raising awareness for men’s skincare, and enhancing the overall male grooming experience. “My goal is to make sure men see a difference and know that the product is available to improve their skin,” says Cole. The products’ ingredients are formulated with fruit acids, enzymes, plant extracts, botanicals and serums which all help to serve the thicker texture and surface of men’s skin.

I also had the pleasure of trying the line’s Facial Towelettes.

They come in three aromas: Clean Citrus, Fresh Mint, and Lavender. My favorite was the Fresh Mint aroma, because it gave my skin a great tingle. These sponge-like towelettes do an amazing job at removing the dirt and oil that your skin collects throughout the day, without over-dying. This is perfect for a quick refresher after a long-day before heading to an evening engagement. They are generous in size, so you only need one per use.

Throughout my initial two-week trial, my complexion became brighter, and less dull. I didn’t experience any new breakouts, and the texture of my skin became smoother. My oil level reduced as well. However, I unfortunately didn’t see a huge difference in my acne scars and hyper-pigmentation, which the line claims to improve. Hyper-pigmentation and acne scars can be tricky though. They usually require a longer use of a product (at-least 30days) before you see visible improvement. Some cases are so severe that stronger treatments from a dermatologist are needed.

Overall, I feel that Cole Skincare for Men is an effective, easy to use skincare system. One of my favorite things about this line is that you get an ample amount of product for your from 9 fl oz money. The 3-in-1 FoamingCont.

Cleanser comespage in a 6.76 bottle, and the Moisture Balm comes in a 3.38 fl oz bottle.

Other products offered through this line include Cleansing Facial Pads w/Moisture and a Bamboo Charcoal Konjac sponge.

Public Relations Specialist Michelle Guess...

Cole Skincare for Men’s basic regimen includes the 3-in-1 Foaming Cleanser and the Moisture Balm. I was instantly impressed with Cole’s “Keep It Simple” philosophy. With just two products, I was able to thoroughly treat my skin. I have previously used other regimens that require up to five products. Scaling down the number of products reduces the time it takes to get through the regimen, and the inevitable clutter of products on your dresser.

The 3-in-1 Foaming Cleanser cleanses, exfoliates, and hydrates. It creates a great lather over your entire face with only 1-2 pumps. It left my skin feeling clean, and with a perfect pH balance. The Moisture Balm, which also requires 1-2 pumps, is one of the best moisturizers I’ve ever used. It goes on light, and quickly absorbs without leaving a greasy

I’ve prolonged my use of the line, and look forward to continued improvement in my skin.

With Father’s Day approaching, please keep in mind that Cole Skincare for Men will make a great gift for the occasion!!!

Rating: Conscious: 5 out of 5 ratings

Parental Advisory: Views and opinions expressed in album, book or movie reviews within this publication reflect the opinion of their respective author and do not necessarily represent those of the publisher and editors.

Know Your Rights!

Everyone has the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion; this right includes freedom to change his religion or belief, and freedom, either alone or in

Article 18 community with others and in public or private, to manifest his religion or belief in teaching, practice, worship and observance.

Consciousness Magazine 26