This magazine is called TWELVE to note its monthly presence, only TWELVE times a year. Also, and more importantly, TWELVE is a symbol of time. So it represents timely information and the central point by which life events are measured. And of course, timepieces are part of the finer things, perfect for our core readers in pursuit of sophisticated living. Welcome to TWELVE.
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Volume II, Issue VIII
COVER
AUGUST 2014
5-HOUR, rider DON’T MISS
Welcome to EIGHT
Calendar 52
TWELVE Magazine is part of the KCSoul.com network. Owned by H.G.E. Marketing, LLC. (H.G.E.). Views & opinions expressed here are not necessarily those of H.G.E. or contributors.
INSIDE
Welcome to our Summer’s Not Over issue. Inside, we salute those ‘RIDERS” motorcyclists of Kansas City and get some insights to that culture. School’s back in session, so secure some tips for your students. Of course, this is TWELVE, so in this issue, you're sure to learn something new. Business to entertainment, it’s all here! Remember, beyond the digital or print experience, TWELVE is interactive, so get involved and engage at our live events too!
BIZ: Jason Walters
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Music
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You have an opportunity to contribute to the content by writing, submitting story suggestions, and of course, attending the launch events and more. Contact us at twelve@kcsoul.com to get involved and send us feedback, too! Sincerely,
KC’s Own: Forte
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Ken L kcsoul.com
RIDERS
@TWELVEKC
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What’s Different? Read It & Experience it Live Fitness
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Kids & Reading
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EXEC: Eugene Agee 48
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Though a lifestyle publication isn’t unique, TWELVE evolves the genre. It’s the only magazine that you both read and live. We set out to create more than a literary piece. We’ve merged both the online world and the live event into the “magazine experience”. Once a month, we release a new issue of the magazine. The release is paired with a live launch event, where the feature elements and characters of our magazine are brought to life for you to touch, taste, feel and experience. The live experience becomes part of gathering ground of additional stories, photos, and more for the final written magazine.
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SPECIAL THANKS Pictured: Monique Waters Lindsey Hester
To all of Our Writers, Designers, Planners, Contributors, Advertisers & Supporters of Xii.
Ken L. Shemeka Cockerm Keyana Collins Kween Colston Eryn Davis-Hayter DJ Franklin Jasmine Jackson Raye Jackson Katrina Leonard Clarence Lomax Iman Lott Sherry Lumpkins LeAndrea Mack Randi McCreary Carlanda McKinney Gary Mitchell Casie Murff Tiffaney Oakes Corey Phillips Earl Smith LaToya Traylor Tony Van Trece Jessikha Williams Christopher White
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twelvekc.com twelve@kcsoul.com
@twelvekc
BUSINESS
Photo: Ken Lumpkins
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A BLOCKBUSTER CAREER
If Jason Walters’ life was a movie, it wouldn’t be the tale of an overnight success story. His would be the “mailroom to the corporate office” type of story. At the end of this adventure, you’d be inspired that you could do it, too. Jason moved to Kansas City four years ago. He is a Director of US Operations at AMC Entertainment, Inc. AMC is the second largest theater house in the nation, serving about 200 million guests annually in 300 theaters. AMC has several remarkable achievements, including pioneering the first multiplex theater in the world, housing multiple screens in one building. It started right here in Kansas City and the headquarters remain nestled in the heart of the Midwest. Walters provides direct supervision to AMC’s General Managers of 38 theater locations in Atlanta, New Orleans, Baton Rouge, St. Louis, Omaha, Fayetteville, and is (Continued on page 8)
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responsible for maintaining profitability of each location and ensuring that each theatre provides best in class customer service. Walters attended the College of Notre Dame of Maryland and studied Secondary Education and Business Management. He began his career in the motion picture exhibition industry over 20 years ago in Baltimore, Maryland as a cashier. He was promoted to manager after high school and became a General Manager in 1995. Jason joined AMC in 2002 when they acquired General Cinema Theatres and relocated to New York to accept a position as Senior Manager at AMC’s flagship location in Times Square. After running several locations in New York and New Jersey, Walters was promoted to his current position in 2010 and moved to Kansas City. Walters’ core responsibilities range from providing strategic direction, to helping manage the finances and talent management. With this level of expertise, we asked him to share some business insights from the movie business that entrepreneurs could utilize.
BUSINESS GROWTH It Starts With a Great Product Our business is based strictly on the quality of the film product. If they produce great films, we’ll have a great year. Once guests experience a film, they’ll share that experience through social media. Creative Marketing Get them in the door. Studios create the visual appeal, trailers, and unique marketing partnerships, such as those with fast food restaurants, to extend their brand. Winning Partnerships Manage to your expertise. Studios create the product and marketing. Theaters manage the delivery and customer experience.
Jason Walters
believes the path to success is to teach and learn as you go.
Customer Service Onsite, it’s about hospitality. Simple greetings and a smile go a long way to bringing customers back to the theater. Nowadays, having a team that can review and address customer comments on social media is key, too. Sales Make your products convenient. A top movie will have more show starts and screens to ensure customers within that target market have access at their convenience. Research & Forecasting Evaluating gross sales give you insight and analytics that will help you manage theater operations, including staffing. Use data to reinforce your decisions.
A Competitive Difference Deliver an experience unlike your competitors. AMC looks to deliver top line experience with elements such as red recliners, bars, and order-from-your-seat service.
What’s Next Business includes planning for the future. In the theater business, enhancing the customer experience is always topof-mind. If it’s 3D and IMAX today, what are the future opportunities? Applying that thinking to your business is key.
In today’s world, competition is not just another theater house, it’s any option customers have to access digital media. You can almost duplicate the movie experience at home, but you can’t duplicate the service we deliver. At the end of the day, movies provide an escape. Sometimes you just need to get away from your house and your day-to-day. We provide that two-hour escape.
As we close, there’s some simple advice that Walters provides for those looking for success in their career or business. His lesson is to learn from your managers while teaching those you supervise.” Using that in his career, he’s been an inspiration to his staff for over 20 years and been able to grow in his career. Apply these tips to your business and make it EPIC!
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SCENE
A NIGHT OF LOVE August 8, 2014 Chrisette Michele & Raheem Devaughn
By Keyana Collins
August 8th was a special night for the Uptown Theater for A Night of Love. Soulful singers Chrisette Michele and special guest Raheem Devaughn blessed the Uptown concert venue with an evening of timeless music. Sean Tyler and the Da Truth Band open up with a round of old school classic renditions such as "Bobby Caldwell - What You Won't Do for Love" and the Gap Band
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"Yearning for your Love" . Raheem Devaughn jumps off with his underground hit "Bulletproof", as the crowd shouts and waves hands in harmony. After Raheem’s incredible set, Chrisette Michele graced the stage with unmatched poise and elegance. The talented singer belts out fan favorite's such as "A Couple of Forevers", (Continued on page 11)
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"Charades" and even takes us to church with her wonderful remake of "Total Praise". I loved every minute of this show from these super talented artists. Please check out their past and recent projects and support real, live music!
Brought to you by KC Greek Picnic Co-hosted by 12MAG
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MUSIC
GLOBAL AMBITION Chris Warren aka ‘Christoph’
Where are you from?
I’m from Wyandotte County, Kansas City, KS. I grew up in Highland Park Townhouses on 55 th Street and graduated from Wyandotte High School in ’01.
Describe Your Music?
My music is poetically conscious, with a gritty vibe… I’m producer, engineer and artist under my record label Mentalist Muzik, LLC.
What makes you unique?
I would attribute my uniqueness to the avenues that inspire me, such as art, poetry, literature, the study of ethics and my faith. As you brush hands with greatness you learn a lot about being just that. Those who have made it are the ones who truly have embraced entirely what has always set them apart.
What’s your impression of the KC music scene?
I’ve been fortunate enough to grow up in Kansas City, a city that has produced some of the most talented and creative people. Its influence comes from a wide variety of music, arts, poetry and performance. I believe Kansas City is positioned well since everything has to travel through our city to make its way to the 4 corners… We’re the melting pot…
Outside of music, any special skills or talents? I am very passionate about good food, particularly fine cuisine. From the creation to the presentation, my music follows through in the same way…
What’s your ultimate goal with music?
Ultimately to create meaningful music… I viewed a commercial a while back and what was said in it resonated with me and I quote “The powerful play goes on and you can contribute a verse? What would your verse be?” My hope is to make a contribution to the industry that inspires, challenges, and withstands the test of time.
Collaborations? Who have you worked with on your current music?
On a trip to Africa in 2010, I had the privilege of recording with the late great Chiwoniso Maraire, who was considered the Mary J. Blige of Zimbabwe. Most recently I collab’d with international hip-hop artist Metaphysics on my album song entitled ‘The Ability’. Of notable national and local collabos, artist R.I.P and Buddy Wood of BlockStyle ReCs coming out of Texas, as well as Kansas City's own acclaimed saxophonist Jahvelle Rhone, and last but not least my homie Q. Jones, both of whom are on the title track to my album ‘Historical Future’.
How can people hear or purchase more of your music?
Follow me on soundcloud.com/christophmuzik on Twitter @B12mentalist and at reverbnation.com/ theelement7 .
What’s next for you?
Mentalist Muzik, LLC. under the partnership and stewardship of Chief Operating Officer Myron “E Dubb” Evans is working on more promotional opportunities with Jus D and Paperlabel Entertainment, Blockstyle Records and collaborating with R&B artist La Velle . Look out for performances in the local music and poetry circuit showcasing an unplugged, up close and intimate vibe with Christoph. For booking contact mentalistmuzik@gmail.com
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CHRISTOPH is ready to take on the world.
Listen to “Global Ambition” Now on the new 12Play Mix CD, MUSIKC PLAY
Christine May Click Photography clickphotographykc.com
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VOLUME
George Forte Director of Operations All In Music Group
VOLUME: XII Magazine highlights music industry pros from Kansas City with national industry credits. 14
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e’s the Director of Operations for All in Music group and on the Cash Money Records radio promotions staff.
Twelvekc.com
There are indeed some glamorous and rewarding moments behind those titles for George Forte but a lot of ground work, intense planning and late nights nourish the fruit of his labor. For five years he’s worked with Cash Money Records helping to advertise, promote, and market but his newest role, assigned to him by All In Music Entertainment group CEO and Sr. Vice-President of Promotions for Cash Money Records, Mel Smith, is one that entails a host of additional responsibilities. As the Director of Operations for Smith’s day-to-day operations and the road manager for the company’s newest artist, D Lux, Forte has assumed a more focal position and he is excited about what he’s attained. He revealed, “My goal is to be one of the top executives in the game but I know that takes hard work, time and dedication. All of which I posses.” Forte admits that breaking into the music industry in any aspect is difficult and says it has been a lifelong passion of his. At 15 years old, during the era of boy groups like ABC (Another Bad creation), Hi-Five and Kris Kross, he was an assistant manager and part of a music group in Kansas City that made strides with excellent radio play on KPRS and opening up for Tech N9ne. As a young adult Forte strayed from the industry a bit but never from his love of music. He went to college, got a degree in marketing and managing, and came full circle back to the industry when he introduced Tech N9ne to Travis O’Guin. The meeting eventually resulted in the birth of the independent label Strange Music where Forte worked on the Angelic album project. How can others from Kansas City break into the industry like George Forte? He admits, “The combination is different for everyone! It is about who you know but my education was my empowerment. It taught me legalities, how to construct a strategy, and build a plan. There are top CEOs who didn’t go to school but I’d never tell anyone not to go to school.” Currently, Forte is the manager for All In Music artist DLux who’s newest song Bomb Bomb featuring Ace Hood is in heavy rotation through Sirius FM radio, Music Choice and in major cities, including Kansas City! Forte is very connected with Kansas City and 15
DLUX is one of the artist managed by Forte.
“It is about who you know but my education was my empowerment. It taught me legalities, how to construct a strategy, and build a plan.” can be seen here often. He says, “Each and every year I travel the country, travel the world, but Kansas City is always home. My family is here, my daughter, so my peace of mind will always be here.”
BUSINESS TOUR
Words: LeAndrea Mack Photo: Keyana Collins
DLUX
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very now and then there is an entertainer with a REAL story, with a back story of epic struggle and authentic adversity. Bursting into the music industry with his smash hit “Bomb Bomb” featuring Ace Hood of Cash Money Records, singer DLUX is establishing himself amongst his musical peers but his start in life, almost over before it even began, is one of heartbreaking struggle and emotional hardship. Parents blessed with a toddler singing at age three, would marvel at the angelic sound but DLUX did his singing amongst the many foster homes he was shipped in and out of until he was 18. Taken away from his mother at birth, he would grow up without the normalcy of a stable family and the relationships of his biological parents. With every reason to be discouraged, he was more determined than ever and now, at the age of 25, he is a recording artist that is closer to his dream than most would ever have imagined. When we caught up with DLUX before his Kansas City show, he was pumped and full of energy. As he measured his marks during sound check, his voice filled the room with soulful melodies and high octave precision. There was no doubt that he is a gifted singer and that he’s been honing his craft for quite some time. There were no visible nerves, no vocal strain, and his mind seemed to be focused
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on charming the ladies and delivering a soundtrack that would set the mood for the fellas to woo the lady of their choice. When asked about performing, DLUX said “I love performing and hope that the people continue to love me and enjoy my music.” On this Milwaukee native’s new mixtape, No Filters, hosted by DJ Khalid, DLUX proffers,
“You will be entertained. My sounds are a mix of all my musical influences and you will be able to hear that in my unique sound.” His single, “Bomb Bomb”, is currently in rotation and circulating major city radio airwaves and nationally via Sirius Radio. It even made the spin of DJ Envy in the wildly popular New York morning show on Power 105.1’s The Breakfast Club which includes influential radio personalities Angela Yee and Charlemagne the God. With rigorous workout regimens to maintain his chiseled physique striving toward his goal to be what he calls, “The singing LL {Cool J}” DLUX sang one more ballad in sound check before heading out with his entourage to get ready for his show. DLUX’s single, “Bomb Bomb” featuring Ace Hood is available on iTunes and his official website is DLuxmusic.com.
MORE DLUX , recently performed in KC. One of the nation’s hot new national artists.
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DLUX
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Twelvekc.com
FEATURE
Photos: Jessikha Williams
Name: “5 HOUR” MC: Triple C Bike: 2006 Kawasaki ZZR 600 RIDING: Since 2009
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RIDERS T
here are some things, like a Maybach, Cartier, Hermés, that characterize having wealth. High-end brand names reflect best in style. But riding a bike…man, that’s the epitome of cool. Ready to ride? A few bikers gave us a crash course.
With at least thirty-two motorcycle clubs in KC area, it’s a large community. Krazy K, Heavy Rotation Motorcylce Club (MC) member says, “What I like about the biker community, is that it takes all kinds. You’ll be out here with law(Continued on page 20)
Photos: Raye Jackson
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magazine
magazine magazine
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yers, doctors, dentists, and guys that scrub toilets for a living. It takes all types to be a part of this world. It doesn’t discriminate. If you want to be a part of biker community and you get along with the rest of bikers, you can be a part of this community. It’s no big deal.” Most start riding because of friends and family. That type of association is what often leads to forming clubs like Heavy Rotation. The MC club president, ONE 50, states, “It started in Omaha about eleven years ago. The KC Chapter started in 2004. They ride for fun, but also support the community through char-
Name: “O-DOG” Bike: Honda CBR 954 RIDING: 10YRS
Name: “KANE” Bike: 2008 Suzuki Haybusa RIDING: 15YRS
ity rides and benefits. O-Dog, Vice President of the KC Chapter states, “This is a brotherhood, my second family.” With the motto, “We Own the Streets”, W.O.T.S, you’ll find members always traveling locally, across the city, or further. Riding has no limits beyond what a full gas tank will allow. Of course, individuals have their own maximum distance rules. One 50, KC chapter president, states, “My longest ride was 19 hours to North Carolina. I would never do that again.” A more palatable and, therefore frequent, trip is the one to the Black National (Continued on page 25)
Name: “SODA POP” Bike: Harley Davidson RIDING: 9YRS
Branden Cartwright Satellite Technician, DirecTV Created a YouTube Channel this year “The only thing that beats an excuse is a try” Favorite Exercise/Machine: Reverse Fly Least Favorite Exercise/Machine: Leg curls
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magazine
HEAVY ROTATION
“We Own The Streets”
Name: “KRAZY K” Bike: Harley Davidson RIDING: 7YRS
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Name: “ONE 50” Bike: 1300 Suzuki Hayabusa RIDING: 15YRS
Name: “REMI” Bike: 2004Suzuki Hayabusa RIDING: 4YRS
INSPIRED
Kimberly Bush Already has more Than enough to Do, but she wants more.
Ask a fourth grader what they want to be when they grow up. They’ll innocently reply with at least three professions, like: “A basketball player, a fireman, a truck driver, and a doctor.” All will be different disciplines, without much in common. We’ll smile and laugh, and think to ourselves, “Isn’t it great for them to be ambitious about their future, but so young and naive to think they can do it all”. 22
I’m sure Kimberly Bush was the same way as a kid with plenty of goals and plans. Who knew that one day she actually would do it all? She’s one of the few individuals I know that could host a one-woman career fair spanning multiple, virtually unrelated disciplines. Add the risks she takes to her multi-pronged career paths and, her
FULL PLATE
Twelvekc.com
“I’m not really a fearful person. It’s my job. I signed up for it.” She continues “The other thing, for me, is if somebody doesn’t do it, if someone doesn’t have the heart or the fortitude, then we don’t have an opportunity to live like we do.” story is indeed akin to an adventure video game. You know, that character who’s a world traveler, fighter, survivor, overcoming any obstacle in her path and up for any challenge. She keeps going and collecting points along the way. If this sounds like it must be an exaggeration, continue reading. Bush is Kansas City born, but she was raised in (Continued on page 27)
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RIDERS Twelvekc.com
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Round-up. It’s like a Black Sturgis, (one of the largest annual motorcycle round-ups in the world). They also attend the St. Louis Black New Years, an annual event for the biker community held during the Midwest biker’s off season. Heavy Rotation MC doesn’t recruit but they are open for membership to those who have an interest. O-Dog, says, “You have to have good character, no drama and you gotta have a bike, at least for Heavy Rotation.” O-Dog further explains, “It’s a not a secret society, but it’s a society with secrets. You’re not going to know everything that goes on unless you’re in it. It’s different. It’s almost underground…a whole other world. By looking at a person, you can’t tell if they’re a biker or not, but once they get in there and put those colors on they become a different person.” Club colors are the club name and logo, typically worn on a vest or jacket, that indicates your affiliation. “Colors are the most serious thing about riding bikes”, says One 50. Kane says, “You don’t let it hit the ground. You don’t disrespect it and throw it anywhere. You see that happening you get in (Continued on page 32)
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Twelvekc.com
Kimberly Bush Co-owner of Wing Busters, but that’s just the beginning. Multiple degrees, talents, and jobs.
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Arkansas until her senior year in high school. She returned to the KC area and graduated from Hickman Mills High School with a Division 1 basketball scholarship to Southwest Missouri State University (now called Missouri State University). She rounded out the starting lineup for three years, until a torn ACL kept her from continuing in the fourth year.
Working for an entrepreneur like Gonzalez inspired her to start her own business. She left that company and began work helping individuals and nonprofit organizations develop viable marketing and business plans.
Even without being a student athlete, school already presents plenty of challenges—lack of time, difficult studies, coping with being away from home and a familiar support system. Kim faced another challenge. She had a daughter her sophomore year in college. If you’re keeping up, that’s a fulltime student, basketball player, and now mother. During her college days, she even made history as a charter member of the Rho Beta chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. “My coach actually would work around my pledge schedule”, Bush recalls.
While business ownership was a goal, somewhere festering was another interest: the United States Army. Yes. Since high school, Kimberly wanted to be a part of it. She was drawn by the physical challenge, more than anything. She carried the interest to college, but having a baby would delay this, since at the time, unwed mothers couldn’t enter the service. But the interest never waned. Years later, married and at the age of thirty-two, she entered the service, having her Master’s degree was a bonus, allowing her to enter as a specialist.
With a brilliant display of tenacity, Kimberly remained the epitome of a scholar-athlete. She carried a heavy load, 17-21 hours per semester. She graduated in five years with a Comprehensive Degree in Marketing. She had far exceeded the credits that any single degree required. As she reflects, “I could have five degrees now if I would have stayed one more semester.” At the time, she was content with one.
No Fear “See the world and learn a skill” is the universal pitch of the military. That may be true, but just as real is the more fundamental fact that enlistment prepares you for war. True to her eventful path, after barely a year into her military service, Kimberly was called into active duty in the War in Iraq. She was promoted to Sergeant in a matter of months. Highly educated with high scores on her military exam, afforded her the opportunity to work behind a desk overseas, but she wanted to be in the field, so she drove a supply truck for the Army, effectively becoming a large mobile target. Sergeant Bush has survived bombings and IADs.
Basketball was a passion and opened new door, but she also had aspirations of becoming an entrepreneur. “Originally, I wanted to build smart homes,” speaking of the remote controlled, techno-designed homes. Yet, at the time, she didn’t have the money for the contractor license. So instead, she earned a Masters Degree from MidAmerica Nazarene University, geared toward Entrepreneurship. Gone International Bush also matriculated at DeVry University, earning her third degree, a Bachelor’s in Telecommunications Management. She worked in the engineering field and landed a job with Gonzales Communications, led by Alfred Gonzales. That afforded her an opportunity to travel to Guinea in West Africa. She worked in the capitol city, Conakry, helping them set up their wireless network. She describes it as a beautiful experience to see that part of Af27
rica, but she was also saddened by the state of the people. “They didn’t have an opportunity to better themselves”.
What’s Kimberly’s perspective of facing death in that fashion? “I’m not really a fearful person. It’s my job. I signed up for it.” She continues “The other thing, for me, is if somebody doesn’t do it, if someone doesn’t have the heart or the fortitude, then we don’t have an opportunity to live like we do.” She notes how other countries face constant church bombings, attacks and are always under siege. “They wonder how they are going to make it through the day. Americans are spoiled”, speaking of the comforts we have often taken for granted. If the military didn’t do their job, you’d be living in more fear. (Continued on page 54)
SCENE
MIKE EPPS at the STARLIGHT August 2, 2014
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RIDERS REMI 2004 Hayabusa
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RIDERS Twelvekc.com
twelvekc.com
ONE 50, Heavy Rotation KC Chapter President, burns rubber.
Rikayla Barnett Home Healthcare Administrative Assistant Dance Instructor and gymnast Favorite Exercise/Machine: Dancing Least Favorite Exercise/Machine: Running (Continued from page 25)
they butt. You gotta respect that color like a flag… the American Flag.” Colors are pretty universal across all MCs. However, the type of will Photography vary. Photos ByMC Mojica mojicaphotography.com
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“5 HOUR” is a member of a Christian MC called Triple C. About twelve members strong, you’ll find service at the top of their list. Delivering holiday gift baskets throughout the metro. Providing school uniforms and awarding scholarships are all part of what they do. Like all bikers, riding is at the core of their MC. 5 HOUR got the biker bug right here in Kansas City in 2007 during the National Black Biker Round-Up,
founded and headquartered in Kansas City though it moves around the country, returning to KC every ten years. Coupled with the enthusiasm of the Biker Boyz movie, still lingering since the movie’s release in 2003, she knew that one day she would ride. She indeed became a rider in 2009. Now, she enjoys riding because “You feel Free. Just the feel of the wind is like nothing else.”
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Cool factor aside, riding bikes does present its share of challenges and danger. Wet roads and impaired drivers are two constants at play. 5 HOUR states, “I’m always in defensive mode. I always ride with my arms and legs covered up.” To all of the bikers, take in the breeze. Enjoy the open road. Be safe.
FITNESS
We’re dedicated to helping you get fit. Here’s another exercise for your stomach to work those oblique muscles. Hold a medicine ball. Turn and throw the ball as hard as possible on the ground. Return the ball to an overhead position. Be sure to exhale when pounding the ball and inhaling when returning forward. See this exercise in action with proper positions and variations at twelvekc.com
Trilogy Sports & Fitness, Inc. is dedicated to helping individuals achieve both personal fitness needs and/or athletic performance goals. We believe you must first commit to your own personal goals and underlining motivation before the process to a better you can began. We specialize in a wide variety of fitness regimens ranging from resistance training, aerobics, strength training, body building, speed training, and weight management. Trilogy Sports & Fitness, Inc. promotes affordable prices to help keep you in the game of fitness and performance. Come join us for a session or two, it definitely can change your life!
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Corey Phillips Founder / Elite Sports Performance Trainer trilogyexplosion.com
Photo: Clarence Lomax
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Tamara Diamond
Fashion connoisseur, Regional Retail Consultant & Manager, Old Navy Inc.
By Tony Van Trece
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SCHOOL
Twelvekc.com
BACK TO SCHOOL: READING IS STILL FUNDAMENTAL TO SUCCESS By: LeAndrea Mack
6 TIPS
TO GET YOUR CHILD TO READ
Reading is one of the most fundamental skills for children to master. It is the driving tool in helping them succeed in school and quite frankly, in life! So how can you get your child interested in reading? Here are six suggestions given by school teachers across the Kansas City area:
Know your child’s passions A 10 year old boy is not going to be excited about reading Charlotte’s Web but he might be interested in reading about the history of his favorite sports team or player. Try books that focus on topics of their interests. When you give them the option to choose, paired with your guidance, their motivation to read will increase significantly.
Get Social Children who are able to read and then discuss what they have read are far more open to wanting to know what’s in the book. Especially if the discussion is with other peers. Invite other children or siblings to read along and then discuss the topic.
Don’t stop reading to them Reading aloud to children throughout elementary school improves their listening skills, lengthens their attention spans and builds their comprehension.
Techno Kids Some children are hooked to technology. They understand it more and may find reading the same text more interesting through smartphones, computers and tablets. This is also a way for you to get them reading on the go. Have them read to you while they are in the car, while you are cooking or waiting in a doctor’s office.
Lead by Example Are you reading? Parents often are their child’s first role model. Seeing you frequently engaged in reading, carrying around books, and discussing them holds a great deal of influence.
Disguise it Anything with words are an opportunity for reading. Menus at restaurants, directions on a video game or searching websites together strengthens reading skills over time. By employing these strategies, children become more willing and interested in reading. They will began to see reading as more than just school work but as part of real life.
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DON’T MISS
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magazine
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SCENE magazine
New Edition | Live at the Midland 8/22/14
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By LeAndrea Mack
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New Edition | Live at the Midland 8/22/14
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SCENE
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Annual Back 2 School Blast Sat, August 2nd, 2014 Interscholastic League Fieldhouse
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EXEC twelvekc.com
Eugene Agee Vice President of Procurement & Real Estate
Listed in the Top 100 Executives in America 2014 by Uptown Professional Magazine
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magazine
ugene Agee is the Vice President of Procurement & Real Estate, responsible for Procurement, Strategic Sourcing, Real Estate, and Environmental, Health and Safety. The organization has approximately 160 associates. In this capacity, he manages $17B in spend and 20 million square feet of commercial, retail and technical space. In addition, he manages Sprint’s supplier diversity initiatives. Eugene has been employed with Sprint for 24 years. Throughout his tenure at Sprint, he has served in several key roles including; Chief Audit Executive of Corporate Audit Services, Corporate Security, Assistant Vice President of Strategic Sourcing and NIS Finance, Revenue Director for Minnesota, Nebraska, and Wyoming local telephone companies, and Manager of Regulatory Planning for Missouri and Minnesota local telephone companies. Eugene earned his Master’s in Business Admini-
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stration from the University of Missouri at Kansas City, Missouri and has a Bachelors of Science in Accounting from Southern Illinois University at Carbondale, Illinois. Eugene is a Certified Public Accountant and winner of the 2009 National Eagle Leadership Institute (NELI) award for leadership, and a member of the Executive Leadership Council (ELC). Eugene serves as a board member on the Mountain Plains Supplier Development Council (vice chair), 100 Black Men of Greater Kansas City and Kansas City Procurement Roundtable. He serves as an advisory board member of Kansas University – School of Supply Chain Management and the International Association of Outsourcing Professionals (IAOP). Eugene is married, and has 4 children. He resides in Leawood, Kansas.
Live on the scene. #12MAG ,Work of Art Calendar shoot. Stay tuned to twelvekc.com for additional calendar details and outtakes.
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Photo: Raye Jackson
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CALENDAR
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Add your events and more to kcsoul.com. Sat 09/13 Elan Boutique Presents Fashion Empowerment Conference BUY Venue: Lincoln College Prep Academy Time: 2-5pm Fri 09/26 Women of Poetry : The Art Of SpokenWord 4 Event type: Poetry Venue: nelson-atkins museum of art: 4525 Oak Street Kansas City MO Time: 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM Producer: The music & more foundation Contact: terance williams Email: kdpublishingdotcom@gmail.com Phone: 8166127640 Web: musicandmorestore.propellshops.com/ Sat 10/11 Alliance for Lupus Research, Walk with Us Event type: Community Action Venue: Community America Ball Park: 1800 Village W Parkway Kansas City KS Time: 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM Producer: Alliance for Lupus Research Contact: Grandview Zetas Z-Fit Captain Email: ZPhiB.YZZ@gmail.com Phone: Web: http://walk.lupusresearch.org/ goto/GrandviewZetas 52
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Fri 10/24 "A Pink Ice Affair" BUY Event type: Fundraiser Venue: The Promise Event Space: 1814 Oak Street Kansas City MO Time: 8:00 PM - 1:00 AM Producer: Alpha Kappa Alpha - Upsilon Rho Omega Chapter Contact: Alicia Email: alimcd2011@gmail.com Phone: 913.484.7138 Sat 11/08 18th Annual Burning Sands Step Show Event type: Fundraiser Venue: Scottish Rite Temple: 1330 E. Linwood Kansas City MO Time: 7:00 PM - 12:00 AM Producer: D.E.E.D. Foundation and the ladies of the KCMO Alumnae Chap Contact: Javonne Patterson Email: stepshow@dstkcmo.org Phone: Web: www.dstkcmo.org/stepshow Sun 11/09 23rd Annual Little Miss AKA Pageant Event type: Community Action Venue: TBA: Kansas City MO Time: 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM Producer: AKA - Xi Tau Omega Chapter Contact: Jasmine Fields Email:
xto.lmaka@gmail.com Phone: Sat 11/22 2nd Anniversary Awards & Supporter Recognition Dinner Event type: Fundraiser Venue: Downtown Marriott Hotel, Count Basie Ballroom: 200 W. 12th Street Kansas City MO Time: 7:00 PM - 12:00 PM Producer: Sylvya Stevenson Contact: Gail Holmes Email: ncbwkc@gmail.com Phone: 816.974.3237 Web: www.ncbwkansascity.com Wed 11/26 Free Community Thanksgiving Dinner Event type: Networking Venue: Brush Creek Community Center: 3801 Emanuel Cleaver II Blvd KCMO Time: 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM Producer: State Rep. Brandon Ellington Contact: THURMAN DAVIS Email: votpgyrl@yahoo.com Phone: 816 2550479
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SCHOOL’S BACK IN SESSION
TAKE CARE OF THE BASICS Throughout the year, kids always look forward to summer vacation. On the flip side, parents tend to look forward to the kids getting back to school. Children can be somewhat stressful to parents during the summer months, but school can be stressful to the children. The important thing is that parents and kids alike set a positive attitude for the upcoming semesters. Let’s go over how parents and students can do this.
Academic Encouragement Academic encouragement is vital to the future of their academic career. Parents must focus on the student’s strengths and weaknesses to create a routine for completing schoolwork. Parents often think that the teacher will provide everything the student needs in his or her education. This is all but true. Setting the Tone Set a game plan for the upcoming semesters including subjects and activities that they dislike. This provides the discipline and, optimally, more bearable tactics for completing tasks. Subjects that are easy to the student should continually be practiced in order to keep up the endurance of learning. Additionally, rewards are a must. Unfortunately not all schools or parents reward their students with recognition, prizes or even a “great job kiddo”. Without these rewards, students feel less accomplished. This can result in a loss of interest in education as well as other activities.
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By Trina Leonard
For the teenager, the aforementioned is especially important. Teens are naturally more resistant to the structure that a school year plan provides, but they need it just as much, if not more. Help your student build the habit of setting goals and establishing a plan to reach them, despite their doubts. Older students tend to hold on to their already established views on problematic subjects or people. However, it is essential that these preconceived notions are broken. Parents and advisors must mentor the student closely to prepare the student academically and socially. Mentors can boost the student’s confi-
dence and assure them that they are capable of success by following the mentor’s lead. Organization There are many moving parts during the course of a school year. Class, extracurricular activities, chores and maybe even a part-time job are typical items on the agenda. Develop a list of priorities, determine a schedule that accounts for the task and travel time. Be sure to record assignment deadlines too and set a goal to complete them with ample time for review. Upperclassman should especially note dates for college preparation exams and scholarship deadlines. With today’s technology, some of these items are easier to manage with alarms and reminders available on computers and smart phones. We wish both students and parents a successful school year using some of these tips as your guide.
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“It’s like if your child is a very fearful child, there’s something you didn’t protect them from. I have three children and two step children. I don’t want them to live like children in other places. It’s my job to reduce the likelihood they have to live like that.” Get Your Wings After almost twelve years in the Army Reserves, she plans to continue to serve and eventually retire from the military, but that doesn’t limit her other pursuits. Back in business mode, she was presented with an opportunity to manage food concessions for the KCMO School District. She had absolutely no food service experience, but she was recognized for her ability to get things done. She served every athletic event in the district, basketball to football. She even secured contracts for additional projects with RBI Baseball at Satchel Paige field and the Boys and Girls Club. The food service experience gave her enough experience and motivation to take the next leap into restaurant ownership. When the owner of a Wing Busters franchise presented the Bushes with an opportunity to take over, they went for it. “We started with 15 flavors, but we have 41 flavors now, actually 52. I got tired of changing the marketing material”, she quips. “I like making it look so good that I don’t want to sell it sometimes. We try and make every box a work of art. When they open that pan of food, I want them to say ‘wow!’” Being in business is trying and competitive, but, for Bush, it’s one of the most fulfilling experiences a person could have. “I appreciate every individual that comes through the doors. I think, they chose us over Kentucky Fried Chicken, McDonald’s, Burger King, Pizza Hut,” she says. “It makes you feel good. Someone thought you were good enough.” Referee Because military service and restaurant ownership are apparently not enough, Kimberly
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makes room for her other passion, basketball, and serves as a referee. “I would go to my daughters to basketball game and the referee wouldn’t show up at times, so I started refereeing so they could have the games. She became a fulltime referee after her daughter went to college, getting certified in both the Missouri and Kansas associations. Bush describes it as a way to be part of the game without being in the game. Family First What’s the woman that has no time and ten jobs to do? Have a baby. She’s the proud new mother of Charlie, just four months old. “Being a parent is so much different in your forties than the twenties. I’m enjoying it. It makes me smile.” Kimberly’s incredible accomplishments would not be possible without a strong family. Faced with games, military travel, catering requests, “I’ve never really had to say ‘no’, because I’ve had the family. I’ve had the support to allow me to say ‘yes’.” To that end, we salute the family as much as Kimberly. Her story is still being written, but today, it is already a testimony of perseverance and resilience. We often hear inspirational words, like “You can do it.” “There’s no limit to what you can do or achieve.” Kimberly has taken those words to heart and has chosen to be an example of someone innovative, globally aware, and without limits. If you don’t see her doing it today, keep watching.
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