E 4 Kids Magazine Feb 2013 by Escapades Magazine

A MENTORING MAGAZINE 4 KIDS

FEBRUARY 2013

06 Visit Us on Our Social Networks Submitting Content

Derrica Wilson 07 Frequently Asked Questions 11 Staff and Contributors 12 Advertising Partners Subscription Rates

23 Femi Ariya

13 Mentors 21 A Sheltered View 48 Black & Missing Foundation

35 Natalie Wilson

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Escapades Magazine welcomes submissions from freelance writers adult and youth. All of our submissions are interviews. Feature interviews are designated by the theme of each month’s issue. All other interviews must be submitted as designated below:

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Frequently Asked Questio ns How can I get in touch with Escapades/E 4 Kids? If you want to contact the Escapades/E 4 Kids team, please send an email to escapades4kids@gmail.com. If you need to contact Escapades or have any questions/problems about this website, you can send an email escapades4kids@gmail.com during USA working hours and we will get back to you as soon as we can. Why are my Escapades article pictures not appearing? No pictures appear automatically on the site, they have to be approved by the Escapades team. This will normally take no longer than 24 hours during working hours, but could take longer. If you have a question about your images not appearing, please email escapades4kids@gmail.com. I’ve seen your publications and they look great. How do I get them? Our publication is free digitally. Only subscribed readers with a small subscription cost can receive a hard copy of the publications. Please contact Escapades team for details and price rates. Your magazine(s) sounds cool! Any writing jobs going at Escapades/E 4 Kids? Yes. We always entertain articles from contributing writers. Go to http://escapades.wordpress.com and click on the “Submit Articles” tab and follow the directions to submitting content. Articles/photos are submitted without payment to writers. We do not guarantee all articles/photos will be used. If you are a published writer, or would like to be, we do accept feature submissions, but bear in mind we recommend that you look through the magazine, identify the kind of material we publish and tailor any ideas around our current work. All material used will be property of Escapades/E 4 Kids and the original writer(s). Any use of article/photo will be the decision and permission of writer/photographer and if used in Escapades/E 4 Kids will be notified or a notification will be printed at the bottom of the article being reprinted directing the readers to know that the article was previously used in one of Escapades/E 4 Kids issues/publications. Send ideas to escapades4kids@gmail.com. I’ve got a suggestion for a photo in the fashion section! We're always interested in seeing photos of fashion teens. Please send any photos to us in a fashion show, model layout (not bathing suit; only casual, formal, or business clothing) email photo with details of model (name, city, state, age, school model attends, and permission of use of

photo by teen model’s parent/guardian, and contact information of photographer/parent/guardian) before we use or review and photo. All submissions will be verified with photographer and parent/guardian. Email to escapades4kids@gmail.com. Can I buy a subscription to the magazine please? Why of course! Head to email escapades4kids@gmail.com most months we throw in some wondrous free gifts, so go have a look what's on offer at the moment. You told me I’d won a competition, but I haven’t had my prize yet. Is it time to take a shotgun to the postman? If your prize hasn't arrived, please email us at escapades4kids@gmail.com and let us know. I’m a sharp-dressing, smooth-talking ad salesman and I want to buy some ad space in your publication(s) magazine and website. Shall we do lunch? There are plenty of opportunities to advertise in Escapades and/or E 4 Kids. Please contact escapades4kids@gmail.com. Hi there, I’m a PR executive with a fantastic new product to promote in your magazine(s) or website. Who do I contact? If you have anything good that you'd like us to review or feature, drop us an email to escapades4kids@gmail.com. One email is usually enough, and we do read everything, honestly, so if you don't get a reply it probably means we're really busy and we will return your email as soon as possible. I’ve spotted a mistake on Escapades/E 4 Kids. Do you give out tenners like the magazine do? No, or we’d go bust within hours. But let us know at escapades4kids@gmail.com. I’m a subscriber to Escapades/E 4 Kids magazine (hard copy) and I haven’t received my copy this month. Where is it? Email our subscriptions department at escapades4kids@gmail.com (Attn: Subscription Department) and let them know. One of your articles on God / sex / women / men / monkeys / plastic mouldings has deeply offended me. I want to complain in the strongest possible terms. To whom shall I address my letter? If you have seen or read something in Escapades/E 4 Kids or on http://escapades4kids.wordpress.com that you consider beyond the bounds of good taste and decency, then send the information to escapades4kids@gmail.com and we will endeavor to deal with your complaint promptly.

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PUBLISHED BY Escapades Publications 1554 East 65th Street #109 Chicago, IL. 60637 USA Publisher/Editor: Andre C. Smith Business Manager: Pippa F. Smith Fashion Editor: Escapades: Connie Shelton E 4 Kids: Christopher Smith 381 Fashion: Roshanna Morgan Model/Photography Editor: Escapades: Christopher Bradford E 4 Kids: Christopher Bradford 381 Fashion: Christopher Bradford Entertainment Editors: E 4 Kids - Video Gaming Editor Tavon Armstrong

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Executive Producer: Andre C. Smith Senior Producer: Pippa F. Smith

Business Consultant: Mattie Butler Mentoring Consultant: Ken Patrick Members: Kelly Porter Turner LaDonna Raeh Kathleen Blade Derrica Wilson Natalie Wilson Byron Taylor Lisa Gee Roshanna Morgan Christopher Bradford Michael Anthony Richardson Lynette Ramirez

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Derrica N. Wilson, president of Black and Missing Foundation, Inc. has dedicated her time and energy in making the world a better place for all people, especially children. In 2000, Mrs. Wilson began her career in law enforcement with the Arlington County Sheriffâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Department in Virginia. She accepted a position with the City of Falls Church Police Department in 2002, where she became the first and only African American female officer. During her career in law enforcement, she has implemented and participated in numerous initiatives aimed at protecting children. Her achievements and meritorious contributions towards protecting children have not been limited to her professional capacity. Mrs. Wilson devotes countless hours as a volunteer speaker at youth summer programs, tutoring and mentoring juveniles at the Juveniles for Justice Evaluation Center, educating school-aged children about â&#x20AC;&#x153;Stranger Dangerâ&#x20AC;?, and promoting Drug Abuse Resistance Education (D.A.R.E). Mrs. Wilson was born and raised in Spartanburg, South Carolina. She is a loving wife and mother who firmly believes that all children are precious. E 4 Kids: Welcome Derrica Wilson; I appreciate you taking time out of your busy schedule to do this interview. Derrica Wilson: The pleasure is all mine. Thank you for shining a light on our organization. E 4 Kids: Derrica I read in your bio that you were born and raised in Spartanburg, South Carolina. When did you move to the Washington DC area? Derrica Wilson: I moved to the Washington DC area May 1999 at the age of 20. E 4 Kids: Can you tell us a little about your educational background and what was some of your experiences in

“I have faced many challenges; however, I'm appreciative of every hurdle, obstacle and challenge as it has molded and shaped me into the woman I am today. It's also a great feeling being the 1st Black Female Police Officer ~ that's one for the history book”, stated Derrica Wilson

school that directed your path into law enforcement? Derrica Wilson: As a young child, I knew I wanted to pursue a career that would allow me to make a difference in my community. After graduating high school (James F. Byrnes), I attended South Carolina State University, majoring in Criminal Justice. Once I relocated to the Washington DC area, I enrolled at the University of Maryland University College. In December 2000, I graduated from the Northern Virginia Criminal Justice Academy. E 4 Kids: Can you tell our readers what was your motivation to begin Black & Missing with your sister Natalie Wilson? Derrica Wilson: It's always been a concern of mine to see the lack of news coverage regarding missing persons of color. It really hit home for me when a young lady, Tamika Huston disappeared from my hometown (Spartanburg, SC -2004) and her family pleaded with the media for coverage. However, months later Natalie Holloway disappeared and her story dominated local and national news. In January 2008, God gave me the vision and I approached Natalie to further discuss; without hesitation she came onboard. On May 24, 2008, Black and Missing Foundation Inc. (BAM FI) was born. E 4 Kids: As Co-Founder of BAM FI you hold the position as the President and Chief Executive Officer. Can you tell us what being President and Chief Executive Officer is responsible for doing? Derrica Wilson: One of my many responsibilities is to work on long-term strategies and planning for BAM FI; and manage day-to-day operations. E 4 Kids: Derrica Wilson it takes an amazing individual to do what you do with BAM FI let alone working with your sister, as most people say that working with family is probably the toughest thing to do? It’s amazing to deal with youth and adults that are missing and the loved ones looking for them. How do you handle it on a daily basis? Derrica Wilson: Natalie and I work extremely well together.

We are both passionate about the organization and have made a commitment to the families and our community. My law enforcement experience and training has prepared me to handle these cases on a daily basis. These families look to us for advice, direction, strength and support. E 4 Kids: If I’m correct you were or still are a police officer for the City of Falls Church Police Department and you deal with tragedy on a regular basis but for all the officer’s (police) that I have spoken with in my life they all say the same thing; “Dealing with missing or injured youth are the hardest thing to deal with in their job”. Is that the same with you and how do you gain the strength to deal with all the missing children and the outcome of the unfortunate children that you find not able to return to their family? Derrica Wilson: I resigned from the Falls Church Police Department March 2010, after accepting an Investigative position within an agency of the District of Columbia Government. It is a traumatic experience for anyone dealing with the "unknown" - a missing loved one. I give 100% of myself to be strong for the families - even when the outcome is not favorable. E 4 Kids: Can you tell us some of the initiatives that you started through your position as a police officer and also through the BAM FI? Derrica Wilson: I started and taught several educational programs as a police officer for Pre-K through 9th (i.e., bullying, gang, drugs, safety, etc.); and developed workshops for adults (i.e., domestic violence, self-defense, personal safety, etc.). We are working on several exciting initiatives for BAM FI. E 4 Kids: I read in your bio that when you were hired at the City of Falls Church Police Department you were the first African American female officer; what was it like? Derrica Wilson: I have faced many challenges; however,

Timothy M. Simone “Young African Americans are a posse sent ahead to scout uncharted social and psychological domains. The posse may be killed, maimed, or wounded so that the rest of the society can occupy the social terrain that has been scouted with relative personal safety”. And the next quote comes from Rev. Jesse Jackson and it states “Youth are looking for something; it’s up to adults to show them what’s worth emulating”.

I'm appreciative of every hurdle, obstacle and challenge as it has molded and shaped me into the woman I am today. It's also a great feeling being the 1st Black Female Police Officer ~ that's one for the history books. E 4 Kids: Can you explain how the idea of BAM FI came about and what was the motivation behind it? Derrica Wilson: You know everyone welcomes the opportunity to fulfill their purpose; however, everyone isn't fortune to know what it is they are supposed to do. I'm thankful to God for giving me the vision and blessed that he placed the right person in my life to support and help me execute the vision - Natalie Wilson, my sister-inlaw. E 4 Kids: What is it like working with your sister-nlaw, Natalie Wilson and how do you separate your life at work and your life at BAM FI? Derrica Wilson: Natalie is wonderful and we work so well together. We are very supportive of one another; I couldn't possibly do this without her. I'm so fortunate to have such an amazing and supportive husband, Arthur (Natalie's Brother); and two beautiful children (ages 9 & 3). We are fortunate to have staff that aid us in daily operations as we work our regular full-time jobs; therefore, families of the missing are not neglected. E 4 Kids: I asked your sister-n-law, Natalie this question and I would like to get your response also from the following quote. The first one is from the writer Timothy M. Simone “Young African Americans are a posse sent ahead to scout uncharted social and psychological domains. The posse may be killed, maimed, or wounded so that the rest of the society can occupy the social terrain that has been scouted with relative personal safety”. And the next quote comes from Rev. Jesse Jackson and it states “Youth are looking for something; it’s up to adults to show them

what’s worth emulating”. Derrica Wilson: As leaders, we have and we will continue to scout uncharted domains for the sake of our missing. Of course, the journey is not easy, but, it is certainly worth every obstacle we face. We are true to ourselves and the mission that God has tasked us to do. We are laying down the foundation for future generations to continue carrying the BAM FI torch - our legacy. E 4 Kids: What advice can you give our readers youth and adults on their future in regards to their careers and education; including continuing education? Derrica Wilson: Be yourself and be true to yourself. Maintain a positive attitude and always surround yourself with positive & like-minded people. "Knowledge is power. Information is liberating. Education is the premise of progress, in every society, in every family." ~ Kofi Annan E 4 Kids: In closing, can you give our readers another piece of advice concerning picking mentors and celebrity examples? As we know in our youth celebrities become the example for personal and business growth; but what in some cases fall short due to peer pressure of their own to stay on top. What should our youth, our parents, and even non-parents do to set the right example? Derrica Wilson: I think the best example is set by Our First Family. We can all learn from them as they represent strength, intelligence, class, dignity, love, educated, passion and supportive. We must be transparent in everything that we do ~ that's the key. Thanks, Derrica

Ever wonder what life in a homeless shelter would be like. What if you were a kid and lived in a homeless shelter? What would you eat how would you go to school, what if your friends in school found out that you lived in a homeless shelter? A sheltered View, is going to answer those questions for you. A Sheltered View will take you monthly inside a homeless shelter and give you a day to day view of what life is like for kids living in a shelter. From the moment they arrive you will experience the fear, dread, and hopelessness that different children face as they try and maintain a normal life while living in a shelter. These articles will be written by the children so you will hear it from them directly on how they feel.

When no children are present at the shelter A Sheltered View will interview the staff and get their input about the different families they see moving in and out of this hidden world. What do educators, counselors, and doctors have to say about the long term effect homelessness has on these children.

Just as important who are we? Illiteracy is growing at the rate of 2.5 million a year. Right now in America illiteracy is costing Americans $238 billion annually. Therefore the Ready4Readingbookclub was established. Our mission is that wherever a below poverty child gets their food clothing or shelter, to establish a team to read to these children and do an age appropriate craft with them. Also our mission is to support the places we read at by bringing awareness to these agencies by public speaking, supporting their fundraisers and volunteering at their centers where needed.

So look for us in Escapade E magazine for Kids then come along with us into the world of homeless children. Prepare yourself to laugh; cry and most of all never look at homelessness the same. Lynette Ramirez Founder ready4readingbookclub www.ready4readingbookclub.com ready4readingbookclub@gmail.com 760-955-3730

A gifted vocalist with an incredible range, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Aservant,â&#x20AC;? born Femi Ariya has had an affinity for music since he was very young. However, this affinity was originally expressed in playing musical instruments and secular music. "I've been going to church all my life," the artist says, "but I never grew to know a real relationship with God until I got outside of the covering of my mom and experienced life as it was." And experience it he did, from going through 2 cases of homelessness (the longest lasting over 4 months), battling alcohol and substance abuse, and being caught in the dead center of one of the nation's biggest natural disasters in history, Hurricane Katrina. "It was nothing but God that got me out of the city. My car was towed 3 days before the hurricane made landfall and honestly I wasn't planning on leaving until the announcement was made that the storm was a category 5 and a mandatory evacuation was issued. I prayed that God would send somebody to get me out, and send someone he did. A very dear friend of mine rented a car and got me and 3 other people out of the city for an 18 hour trip to Houston, TX were a Holiday Inn opened its doors for us. The same apartment complex I lived in received over 25 feet of water. You do the math. I could very well be dead from that occasion alone, you can't tell me that God ain't real." From witnessing a man get stabbed to death to being the middle of live gun-play, the Waco, TX native was seeing a whole new side of humanity in his journey to growing in God. "Man, there were so many things that I knew was wrong, but I did anyway, I do thank God for the things I didn't do or that He kept me from doing, but I knew better but in my human-ness, I did what my flesh said was right. All the time when I was doing something wrong I could hear that voice..." It wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t until the singer/songwriter was asked to join his church choir and later the praise team after singing a little too loud from the congregation. What started as a bashful acquaintance grew into a passionate romance as the then Science & Foreign Language major found himself quickly falling in love with ministry and finding the purpose he never knew was missing. As he matured as a singer, he was blessed to cross paths with many gospel greats of the time, including receiving vocal coaching from gospel legend Kim Burrell. Although his writing skills were originally born out of artistic expression in secular rap (yes, he does rap) he quickly became a proficient songwriter allowing the perfect marriage between the powerful, yet soulful voice and the poetic imagery born through his lyrics. With a style completely absent from the contemporary gospel arena, the music and ministry of Aservant is guaranteed to amaze and deeply impact the masses,

Describe your job/career? I am a gospel artist/minister What unique experience can you tell the readers about in your job? Watching the impact of what you do on and in peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lives is a HUGE perk in the job; you are not only providing people with good entertainment but offering them the opportunity to realize a whole new level of life as they experience it through Christ. To see people give their lives to Christ on a regular occasion is truly a blessed experience

What do you feel are the good aspects of the career you have chosen for yourself and what are the bad aspects of the career you have chosen? The good and bad of this journey are born from a marriage of two things, spirituality and music entertainment which make it a potentially awesome job if one called to do it and is willing to commit himself or herself to the work required to excel. Watching someone make an active choice to change his or her life for the better and ultimately assure his or her fate is the

Tell us about some of your career accomplishments? Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been on multiple television shows, local, national and international. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m currently being regularly played on over 10 radio stations across the country. My latest mix tape (which is free to download by the way, http://www.pagesofaservant.com/store) just broke 3000 downloads. What are your short term goals in your career and what are your long term goals also? My most paramount short-term goal is to build a family (i.e. fan base) of 10,000+ active members, but I also wish to finalize the process to fully acquire the non-profit status of the ministry and finish the plans for the live recording of the final installment of the precursor mix tape series for my sophomore project and the oversees tour being planned in Kenya. Long-term, I wish to affect the world in a major way; I want the ministry to be felt in the hearts and minds of every individual, which is much more than getting them to simply purchase a cd, but to bring the Erase Poverty Initiative completely to life in every corner of the world. (More info on the Erase Poverty Initiative: http://www.squarebiznis.com/erase-povertyinitiative.html)

ultimate reward in this career field. Many people want to know that they made a difference in the world and in my line of work you get to see that difference almost every day. People are almost always telling me how a certain song ministered to their soul or how it kept them from making a very destructive decision and I always tell them that knowing that what God put inside me from before I knew my name was and is a blessing to another individual is one of the greatest gifts a person can receive and the best feeling one can realize. However, because my principle income is based off of my ministry, until I get signed to a major label or grow a family large enough to 24

support the ministry and everyone involved in it, it becomes very hard to escape the pit of poverty. This is because, I’m not just selling a piece of myself, but a message that needs to be heard yet was never meant to cost anything. How can you put a price on salvation? Or a rebate on hope? These are things man cannot truly create but instead are free gifts from the Creator, thus I find it hard to turn people away from a message I was born to give. In that same token, there are MANY people in this industry who know that people like me exist and they work very hard to take advantage of the calling. Mix that with an uncountable number of people, organizations, and entities that don’t have or don’t want to give the money required for me to properly do my job and you can begin to see the precarious position I seem to be in. The success of my walk is thus reduced to the grace and will of God and my willingness to abide in and walk by it. A unique career field indeed. What motivates you in your career on a daily basis? The thought that this may be my last day on earth and I was allowed to see even this moment for a reason. I make every move with that in mind. Maximizing the efficacy of my “business” is maximizing the efficacy of something that can truly change the world if given the proper chance. So every day I draw breath I am motivated not just to become successful but to change the world in which I live. What do you consider to be your weakness in your career and how do you work on strengthen this weakness each day? My weakness as an individual can be deduced to everything that is wrapped in this flesh. Not from the physiological perspective my being but from the consciousness perspective of “rightness vs. wrongness” “iniquity vs. righteousness”. Us “spiritual” folk, that is people who truly have successfully found and grown a relationship with God have come upon a truth, and that is that this human experience is dualistic in nature, that there is a part of our being that cannot be fully perceived 25

by the other and these two parts are ultimately dichotomous in nature, one wishing to fully consume and remove the other. Our complete walk is thus a struggle between these two versions of ourselves and the choices we are compelled to make are thus a reflection of the part of us we give ear to. As a minister, I simply must remain in the spiritual at all times. The precise moment at which I choose to operate out of the carnal or physical me is the moment I rebel against God, because He is completely spiritual. Yet this weakness is necessary as freewill, a gift God gave humankind, is impossible without it. The “spiritman” cannot operate outside of the will of God and the “carnalman” couldn’t find the will of God if he slept in the middle of it. Every day we all have a choice and through life and experiences we are offered the opportunity to grow stronger. Because I’ve been saved by grace in my “weakness” I am now made strong, because my faults no longer serve as the articles of my condemnation but the stepping stones by which I may grow closer to God. In short, I am my weakness, but God is good… all the time.

may have booked time with us, while simultaneously working on my own projects on the in between time, while simultaneously making any errand runs needed to propel the ministry, while simultaneously networking with a number of contacts in order to growing the family of the ministry, while simultaneously trying to schedule myself at every possible event I’m knowledgeable of, while simultaneously working to keep our presence on all forms of media, digital and otherwise, as fresh and compelling as possible. While doing all of this, I work as the lead musician and A/V tech at my church, I still DJ from time to time (though I mostly manage) and I give guitar and vocal lessons. Oh, and I work part-time at a local dojo. I usually get done working at around 2 to 4 in the morning, I go home, pass out and pray I wake up to do it all again tomorrow until I break into the industry in a major way (then I can hire the 20 people needed to do those jobs, lol) What do you feel is the most memorable time in your childhood that set you on your goal of

What do you feel is the next step for you in your career choice? Most indie artists believe at my level that the next step would be signing with a major label, yet after several glimpses into that side of the industry, I know that that is not the only possibility. I’m definitely open to offers, but, as an artist, I want so much and the freedom, control and ownership I experience as an indie allows me to operate exactly as God leads. I’m willing to give a little, but it’s hard to find a truly fair deal nowadays. I’m certain God is going to grow the ministry to a larger platform. I just don’t know yet how He’s gonna do it. Faith What is your normal day like at work? Let’s see if I can say all of this in one breath, I wake up every day at 8am and spend time with God (pray, read, study), work out from 9am11am, then I head to my studio to work on production and projects of several artists who

being successful in your career choice? Truthfully, I always wanted to be a doctor of medicine and most of my childhood was geared towards that. It wasn’t until I got to college that music and ministry became a serious factor in my life. What type of support system did you get as you grew up in high school, home and even college? Typical (from the statistical perspective), 20th century “black” upbringing in America, singleparent (mom) home, impoverished and spiritual. Atypical of the statistical norm of that era, I lived in a 3-generation home (Us, our grandmother, great-grandfather, and uncle all lived in the same 2 bedroom house), my mother refused to be a victim of welfare, and both of my parents were college graduates. There was never any money, but always a lot of love, encouragement, and God. What do you feel you bring to your career and what do you feel you have contributed to others in your field? Realness, transparency, musical uniqueness and vision. I have nothing to hide and will answer any question you ask with honesty and conviction, God has brought me far and I want people to see that, not so that they can say, “wow, look at him” but that they may say, “Wow, look at God.” Also, my musical tastes meld together in an interesting way, so my expression from the performer perspective is pretty unique and exclusive to the market. Finally, I’m not in this field to make money or be a star, but to fulfill a vision I was given, that makes my drive completely different than the next one in the field. They just have to be good enough to bring a fat check home. I have to be good enough to change the world with every note.

peers in the industry because my focus is not really on them at the moment. Not that I ignore them, I support every gospel artist that brings glory to God to the best of my ability, but the nature of my industry is thus that we live to impact and contribute more to the ears that hear our voice and not as much the other voices trying to be heard, because they already know Jesus (I hope…) What advice can give our readers to the choice they make in their career and the choice they make in their educational growth? I would tell them to close their eyes and imagine a world where money and economy didn’t exist. Imagine that thing that they would do for the betterment of society if they didn’t have to be paid a dime for it. Ever. Imagine that skill that makes them completely unique as an individual and offers them a glimpse into their own being when they utilize it. Then I would tell them to open their eyes and run after that dream until it crashes reality.

As far as what I’ve contributed to others in the field itself, outside of some cool guitar riffs and prayer, I think I’ve only just begun to give to my 27

What do you feel is your biggest competitor in your field and what do you do to overcome those competitors? Lol, spiritually or physically? Because the answer can go two ways from there. To answer as generally as I can, any force that seeks to trap man within the confines of perceived possibility and impossibility; to deceive man into a reversed or perverted ethos on the world; to remove our innate freedom and replace it within the confines of damnation, is my competitor. Yet it is very hard to see those forces as they are so I will say this. In my industry, there shouldn’t be any competition because the nature of our industry is supposed to compel us to work together towards a common goal, but to take from some wise words I received from the director of a radio station just before an interview, the people at the top don’t stay there by innovation but by suppression of the innovators. So my competition does not lie with other entities in my field but with a mentality that has been perpetuated and causes those who I call my brothers to swing a sword at me or sometimes turn a deaf ear to my plea.

What is it that makes your career successful and how is it affected by the economy? Success can be defined a number of ways. If, by success you mean lucre then the answer is simple, this industry caters to a part of man that will never die as long as he lives on this planet; an insatiable hunger that cannot be satisfied; our thirst for entertainment. Because of this, profit potential in the entertainment industry is among the highest in the world, succeeded only by a few markets. However, I have not yet attained success in that capacity, so at the moment my success can only be defined by what the world does not see as success, yet ironically is the very definition of success that holds under any circumstance, and that is the intensity and profundity by which I impact and influence my fellow man. The money part is drastically affected by the economy at my level, yet in

higher levels in virtually untouched (because we like to be entertained and diverted). But the state of our economy cannot begin to touch man’s capacity to motivate, encourage, and influence his brethren. Can you explain the academic background it takes to do your specific job/career and what is the future of continuing education look forward to for people in your field? Ray Charles was blind; BB King never took one music theory class; Peter was unlearned; Moses had speech problems. If you are truly called for ministry, God will qualify and you. School and the knowledge it yields is a powerful tool, not a dire necessity. Learn as much as you can about what you need to be properly equipped to walk your walk in life. Become the best you possibly can at what you are called to do. And finally, continue to learn and teach so you will remain the best through innovation and not suppression.

As a mentor and leader in your industry/career what type of leadership example is best to exhibit for our youth? One that shows no fear in following a dream/vision; one that stays as far away from what the world defines as possible because those who made true change never followed anyone but destiny God gave them; one that defines “cool” as free self-expression and genuine love for God; one that defines life as an outward manifestation of the inward quest to realize your full potential and destiny Visit Femi Ariya at: http://www.squarebiznis.com http://www.reverbnation.com/aservant http://facebook.com/fjariya

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Escapades: Hello Natalie Wilson welcome to Escapades Magazine. I would like to begin this interview by saying that it is a true pleasure knowing you and your sister Derrica N. Wilson; who we are interviewing in our E 4 Kids Magazine. As Co-Founder of Black and Missing, Inc. it is your responsibility as Chief Operations Officer to direct media relations, public affairs and community outreach activities. Can you explain to our readers what these responsibilities entail? Natalie Wilson: Thank you for utilizing your platform to bring awareness to missing children of color. As the Chief Operating Officer, I work closely with Derrica Wilson, president and CEO, our board of directors, staff and volunteers in developing, leading and managing an array of services and programs to bring awareness to the issue of missing persons of color. Awareness is key in finding our missing or providing closure for their families. My role is also to establish relations with local and national media outlets; plan programs to educate our communities and

target groups on BAM FIâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mission, programs and services; develop and implement communications plans on key agency initiatives; serve as content editor of BAM FI Web site and blog; and to coach families on working with the media. Escapades: Can you tell us what your day is like in your position as the Chief Operations Officer? Natalie Wilson: I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have a typical day; however, I routinely work with our media partners to garner coverage for cases; follow-up with media partners on a number of initiatives; utilize social media to issue alerts on persons missing; and follow up with families. Escapades: As I read in your bio you attended Howard University in Washington DC for your degree in psychology with a minor in Communication. Can you tell us why you chose your degree in psychology; what was your specific motivation for going in this direction? Natalie Wilson: I grew up in an era in which young black males were being killed at an alarming rate in the District of Columbia. With two younger brothers, it bothered me. I

Rev. Jesse Jackson which stated “Youth are looking for something; it’s up to adults to show them what’s worth emulating.”

wanted to be a psychologist to help save the young men in my community. I wanted them all to thrive and do well. I wanted to do what I could to make a difference. Escapades: So after you made your choice to follow the degree into psychology what drove your decision to your masters into communication? Natalie Wilson: I realized that media influences our culture, our behavior, and our thoughts. I wanted to reshape the messages delivered to our communities – especially our young men. Education is vital. I knew that I needed to have an advanced degree to be successful in the field of communications. Escapades: Can you explain to us what psychology is and what careers come from a degree in this subject matter? Natalie Wilson: Psychology is the study of the mind and behavior. Careers with a psychology degree are: Counselor, Rehabilitation Specialist, Psychiatric Technician, Social Worker, administrative positions; and labor-relations, personnel and training positions. Escapades: When it comes to your degree choice where does your degree in psychology come into assistance in your career? Natalie Wilson: My degree in psychology helps me when working with families during their traumatic time. Families rely on us for support. Escapades: Growing up in the 1990s and current years what type of youth or even adult do you think it takes to choose a degree in psychology with our youth looking at careers in entertainment or sports? And adults looking at careers they think can make them a quick income? Natalie Wilson: Our youth have to know that other career choices - besides sports and entertainment - are exist and are available. They also must know that they are smart, beautiful and can accomplish greatness. If they find their passion and

do whatever they decide to do well – money will come. Unfortunately, our youth want instance gratification. They don’t want to wait or put in the hard work. That mindset must change. Escapades: As Co-Founder let alone being the Chief Operations Officer how do you deal with all of the faces you look at of the missing youth and adults? Natalie Wilson: It is very difficult to see these faces. It could happen to anyone. That’s why we take the time to educate our community on personal safety. Escapades: How do you deal with or do you even deal with the families of the missing youth and adults? Natalie Wilson: It is tough and heart-breaking, but what keeps me going is knowing that I am making a difference. Escapades: What type of community outreach activities are Black and Missing Foundation involved in? Also what type of ongoing training or workshops do you do for communities? Natalie Wilson: We participate in conferences, community workshops, seminars, fairs, and seminars Escapades: In your position at BAM FI what do you see are the most problems or causes of youth missing and of adults missing? Natalie Wilson: There are a number of reasons why our children and adults are disappearing: 

Family abductions

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Sex Trafficking

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Domestic Violence

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Runaways

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Kidnappings

Escapades: Your sister Derrica Wilson and yourself started BAM FI what most stands out in your memory that your assistance was most effective in helping find a youth or an adult? And why does this memory stand out? Natalie Wilson: I am overjoyed whenever we bring a child or missing loved one home! It is satisfying – very rewarding. Escapades: Does BAM FI do a lot of workshops in communities and at schools and do you cover just the Washington DC area? And how much involvement do you have with local law enforcement agencies? Natalie Wilson: We conduct workshops and seminars throughout the United States. We work closely with law enforcement. BAM FI is founded by a veteran law enforcement official (Derrica) and I (media). These are two very important components in finding and bringing awareness to our missing. Escapades: Where do you get your information for missing youth and adults? Is it from different agencies or directly from families? Natalie Wilson: We receive information through a number of vehicles, such as law enforcement, families of missing individuals, media and the community. Escapades: Without getting too involved with mentioning family involvement; do you have a certain limit that you won’t go past when it comes to discussing work on a daily basis with your family such as your husband and your children? Natalie Wilson: My family is very supportive. Without sharing confidential information about a particular case, they are very insightful and provide a different perspective. My husband and I have wonderful teenagers who keep me up-to-date on the latest and most effective social media tools. Escapades: As you were growing up what and who were your mentors that stood out for you? Can you remember any African Americans that guided your future plans for your career choice? Natalie Wilson: Oprah was my role model growing up. She had a very successful platform that she used to create awareness of many issues and empowered young women who looked like her to excel. She is a very effective communicator.

Escapades: Natalie I would like to quote two things that was said in history and by whom can you tell me what these quotes mean to you in regards to you in your career and in your life? A famous writer by the name of Timothy M. Simone quoted “Young African Americans are a posse sent ahead to scout uncharted social and psychological domains. The posse may be killed, maimed, or wounded so that the rest of the society can occupy the social terrain that has been scouted with relative personal safety”. And the second quote is from Rev. Jesse Jackson which stated “Youth are looking for something; it’s up to adults to show them what’s worth emulating.” Natalie Wilson: The first quote – To me, it shows that as a people we are pioneers and leaders. We sacrifice our mind, body and soul so that others can grow and thrive. The world stands on our shoulders. The second quote embodies the African proverb – “it takes a village.” As a community we have a responsibility to raise, encourage and lead our children to greatness. Escapades: What advice can you give to our readers’ adult and then our youth? Natalie Wilson: Please be vigilant. Unfortunately, our community believes that the issue of missing persons happens in another community. It doesn’t. It is happening in our communities. When BAM FI first began, 30 percent of all persons missing were of color. That number has now increased to 40 percent. We all have a duty to come forward with information that could lead to the recovery of a missing person. Escapades: What is the near future look for Natalie Wilson and what should we expect to see coming soon from BAM FI? Natalie Wilson: We want families to have the resources needed to cope with a missing loved one. We are launching a support group for families. I see BAM FI being a leader and household name in regards to missing person s of color. The best is yet to come. Escapades: Natalie Wilson, thank you for spending the time with us and please come back soon and let us know how things are going with you and BAM FI? Thank you.

Allen D. Edge has performed his special brand of humor at Zanies in Chicago Barrel of Laughs All Jokes Aside FOR BOOKING AND INFORMATION Jokes & Notes in Chicago U Got Jokes regarding Transitions Edge Productions, Inc.

Chicago Comedy Central’s “Comic Justice”

bookings for speaking engagements The Comedy Café in Milwaukee Please call The Apollo Theatre in New York Opening (630) 631-9239 or

act for Patti La Belle Aretha Franklin Smokey Robinson

email The O’Jays allen_dennis_edge@yahoo.com The Soul Children of Chicago

Born 1947 In 1992 Moseley-Braun was elected a Senator (D.) from Illinois, becoming the first African American woman to sit in the U.S. Senate and only the second African American since Reconstruction to be a Senator. The daughter of a Chicago police officer, Moseley-Braun received a law degree from the University of Chicago and worked in the U.S. Attorney's Office, where she won the Special Achievement Award. In 1978 she was elected to the Illinois House of Representatives, where she was voted Best Legislator each of the ten years she served. In 1988 she became the first African American to hold high office in Cook County when she was elected Cook County Recorder of Deeds, an important stepping stone to her Senate race.

Poet, novelist, and teacher Margaret Walker spent a culturally rich southern childhood that influenced her poetic and artistic vision. Her father, a scholar and lover of literature, instilled in his daughter a love of American and English classics, the Bible, and poetry. Her mother played music, especially ragtime, and read poetry. The family household included her maternal grandmother, who told the children folktales. One story stayed in Walker's consciousness and became a part of her famous novel, Jubilee. The Depression served as the context for the 1934 publication of her first poem, and the beginning of her association with the WPA Writer's Project, where her experience was enriched by her contact with other writers and artists. In 1939, Walker finished her first novel, Goose Island, which was never published. A collection of poetry was published by Yale University Press in 1941, also winning the Yale Younger Poet's Award. The same year, Walker began teaching, and her long career took her to Livingstone College, West Virginia State College, and Jackson State University. Since her retirement from teaching, Walker has continued to write and has undertaken rigorous speaking tours.

1894-1962 Sociologist and educator, E. Franklin Frazier was born in Baltimore, Maryland. In 1916 he graduated cum laude from Howard University with a B.A. degree and accepted a position as mathematics instructor at Tuskegee Institute. He received his M.A. degree from Clark University in 1920 and his Ph.D. from the University of Chicago in 1931. A grant from the American Scandinavian Foundation enabled him to go to Denmark to study "folk" schools. From 1922 to 1924, Frazier taught sociology and African studies at Morehouse College in Atlanta, and then served as director of the Atlanta School of Social Work until 1927. He was on the faculty at Fisk University from 1931 until 1934, after which he became head of Howard University's department of sociology, a post he held until named professor emeritus in 1959. Frazier was a prolific writer; he was the author of several books including the controversial Black Bourgeoise. His numerous awards included a 1940 Guggenheim Fellowship and the John Anisfield Award.

1819-1898 Alexander Crummell, clergyman and author, was born in New York City to free parents. Crummell was a descendant of West African royalty since his paternal grandfather was a tribal king. He attended Mulberry Street School in New York, and in 1831 he was enrolled briefly in a new high school in Canaan, New Hampshire, before it was destroyed by neighborhood residents. In 1836 Crummell attended Oneida Institute manual labor school. He was received as a candidate for Holy Orders in 1839 and applied for admission to the General Theological Seminary of the Episcopal Church, but was not admitted because of his color. He was eventually received in the diocese of Massachusetts and ordained to the diaconate there. After study at Queen's College, Cambridge, England, he went to Africa as a missionary, becoming a professor of mental and moral science in Liberia. While there, Crummell became widely known as a public figure; in 1862 he published a volume of his addresses, most of which had been delivered in Africa. After spending 20 years on that continent, Crummell returned to the United States and became rector of St. Luke's Church, Washington, D.C., and later founded the American Negro Academy.

BULLYING: Bullying is when one child picks on another child repeatedly. Bullying can be physical, verbal, or social. It can happen at school, on the playground, on the school bus, in the neighborhood, or over the Internet. When Your Child Is Bullied 

Help your child learn how to respond by teaching your child how to: 1. Look the bully in the eye.

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When Your Child Is the Bully   

2. Stand tall and stay calm in a difficult situation.  3. Walk away. 

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Teach your child how to say in a firm voice: 1. "I don't like what you are doing."

Make sure an adult who knows about the bullying can watch out for your child's safety and well-being when you cannot be there.

Be sure your child knows that bullying is never OK. Set firm and consistent limits on your child's aggressive behavior. Be a positive role mode. Show children they can get what they want without teasing, threatening or hurting someone. Use effective, non-physical discipline, such as loss of privileges. Develop practical solutions with the school principal, teachers, counselors, and parents of the children your child has bullied.

When Your Child Is a Bystander

2. "Please do NOT talk to me like that."

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3. "Why would you say that?"

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Teach your child when and how to ask for help. Encourage your child to make friends with other children. Support activities that interest your child. Alert school officials to the problems and work with them on solutions.

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Tell your child not to cheer on or even quietly watch bullying. Encourage your child to tell a trusted adult about the bullying. Help your child support other children who may be bullied. Encourage your child to include these children in activities. Encourage your child to join with others in telling bullies to stop.

Case Type: Endangered DOB: Apr 20, 1996 Missing Date: Oct 16, 2012 Age Now: 16 Missing City: Detroit Missing State: MI Case Number: NCMC1207009 Gender: Male Race: Black Complexion: Medium Height: 5-6 Weight: 140 Hair Color: Black Hair Length: Short Eye Color: Brown Wear Glasses or Contacts: No

Location Last Seen: Unknown. Circumstances of Disappearance: Possible runaway. Last Seen Wearing: Unknown. Identifying Marks or Characteristics: He has a tattoo of a tombstone with a poem on his right forearm. Have information about this missing person? Click here to submit information to our Tip Line

Case Type: Endangered DOB: Jan 10, 1997 Missing Date: Nov 27, 2012 Age Now: 16 Missing City: Dayton Missing State: OH Case Number: NCMC1206636 Gender: Female Race: Black Complexion: Medium Height: 5-2 Weight: 102 Hair Color: Black Hair Length: Shoulder Length Eye Color: Brown Wear Glasses or Contacts: No

Location Last Seen: Unknown. Circumstances of Disappearance: Tiara may be in the company of an adult male. They may still be in the local area. She may go by the nickname "Tiki Bear." Last Seen Wearing: Unknown. Identifying Marks or Characteristics: Tiara has a mole under her right eye and a mole on her earlobe. Have information about this missing person? Click here to submit information to our Tip Line