Twelve feb 2014 two

For Connoisseurs & Conscious Living 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 II

COVER

FEBRUARY 2014

 Diamond Jones, model Android “Wired for Love” DON’T MISS

Welcome to The TRUTH!

 Calendar 50 TRUTH photos by Tiffany Cody & SMASH GLAM 42

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

A. Williams BIZ

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D. Barnes Author 8

Never Tell

NSBE

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Thanks for joining us for another BIG issue of TWELVE. We call this issue, The TRUTH. It directly relates to Valentine’s Day and the season of love and romance Here, the Truth is our exploration of the honesty people seek, want, confess or even deny.

TRUTH also equates to FACTS relating to Black History Month, (BHM) In this issue learn about national pioneers and some local history. Since BHM typically has a big focus on inventors, so we bring the conversation up-to-date with an exploration of technology.

Explore the content, style and more. Remember, beyond the digital or print experience, TWELVE is interactive, so get involved and engage at our live events too!

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,

Ken L

kcsoul.com

@TWELVEKC

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What’s Different? Read It & Experience it Live

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DROID Tech

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Black History

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The TRUTH

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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 on First Fridays, 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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FOUNDERS CLUB: Happy Anniversary TWELVE Magazine SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR 1ST YEAR, 2013 SUPPORTERS

BOND

Writers, Designers, Planners, Contributors, Advertisers & Supporters of Xii

3's a charm hair studio A.N.D. Model Mgt. Aarrika Davenport ADRIAN RAY’MON SMITH Aisha Ogletree Aisha Ogletree Ajamu Webster Albert Okagbue Alia McGee Allen Holcomb Ambassador Hotel Amber Smith Andrea Hendricks Andrew Hutchins Angela “Roux” Roulette Angela Davenport Angela J. Pearson Angeline Betts Anthony Saunders Anthony Williams Arica Lynn Ariele Hardy Arlana Coleman Asheley Brown Ashley Garland Audrey Cutts Benjamin McReynolds Bianca Russell Bob Baker Bosede A Iyewarun, EarKandie!

Boss Kingz Brandon Amayzn Nelson Brian Foster Brian Kennedy Bridgette R. Johnson Brittany Jones Brittany Leek Brooks Proctor Calvin Meeks Carlanda McKinney Carlose Estes Carolyn House Stewart Champu Hair Design Charles E Smiley Charles Lambert Chinda's "YOU" Nique Chris Hutchins Chris Westmoreland Christopher White Cj Nash, Jem Elite All Stars Clarence Lomax Clarence Lomax Consuelo Ross Coralyn Martin Corey Phillips Crystal Lumpkins Curshion Jones Curtis Brown D 'Juan Love D. Baker Damon Bryant Damon Patterson Dana Gilmore Danielle Jones Darrel Davis Darron LaMonte Edwards Daszanice Martin David Lux Davyeon Ross Denise Kelly Dexter McCluster Diallo French Diana Gordon DJ Franklin

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THE MOVIE -

Dollface Beauty Salon Kill Swim Randi McCreary Dominique Hernandez Kinshasa Smith Randy D. Dunn Donnie Wilson Kinshasa/owner Randy Hall Doretha Williams Knappy Rootz RaShaun Garlington, "Soul Sistah"  Knappy Rootz Beauty Salon Doug Ngomsi Raye Jackson Dr. Andrea Hendricks Kolby Smith Raye Jackson Dr. Doretha Williams Kristin Lambert Rhenate Hodges Dr. Edward Underwood Kristin Lambert Rochinda Chism Dr. Philip Hickman Krystal Tatney BE A PART OF IT! Roger C. Williams, Jr. EdD Draque's Barbershop Kween Colston Rome | AUTO | FASHION | JEWELREY | TECHNOLOGY Dwayne Bowe LaDonna Adams Ron Lindsay EarKandie!

LaDwan Herring Rosalon BEAUTY Earl Smith LaMonica Moore-Madden Saisha Beecham Ed Butler Larry Alexander Samie Parker #18 Emanuel Cleaver, II LarryPRESENTING Lester Sean Smith KC’S FINER THINGS Eric Harland LaToya Traylor Sean Tyler Eric McTye LaTreena Lambert Shae` Mara Erika Brice Lauren Thomas Shane Evans TWELVE@KCSOUL.COM Erinn Stacie LeAndrea Mack Shani Tate EsCu Models Develop-ment Group Lee Langston Sharon Sanders Brooks EVEREADY Lena Banks Shawn Edwards Frank Ford Lenora Payne Shemeka Cockerm Fred Buford Lesa Montgomery Sherry Lumpkins Fred Wise LeShea Wright Shivon Starr Gabrielle Phillips LeTysha Montgomery Shomari Benton Garrick Whittington LeVelle Simeon Taylor Garry Lumpkins Lewis Diuguid Sly James Gary Mitchell Lewis George Walker Sosha Oshaye George Forte Lezlie Berger, Stacie Harrison Gina McFadden Lonnie Bush Stacy Brown Glen Stylez Lonnie McFadden Stand Out Style Glenn North Louie Buchanan of LB Customs Stefan Jones Gregory A. Carroll Luse Hairs Stefan Jones Gregory Ikner MAC Salon Stephanie Clark Harold L. Holliday, III Madeline Romious Stylist/Owner Ericka Lewis Headz-Up Beauty & Barber Supply Madia Cooper Sun-Up Jones ICONS Maggie Townsend Tammy Edwards I'Keim Berger Mario McCrary Tara Russell Iman Lott Mark A. Watson Ted Crews India Williams Mark Bryant Ted McKnight Isaac Cates and Ordained Gospel Ensemble Melba Curls Terance Williams James Miller Melonie Jones Terence Berger Jamie Braden Melvin Porter Terra Merriwether Janelle Monae Michael E. Brooks Terrell Jolly Jason Betts michael watson Terrell L Jason Walters Michele Watley The Recipe – Priest and 3-3-7 Jauqua Preston MicKey POW!ers Theory Jeffrey L. Primos Midwest Spartans Theory Jenna Hanchard Mike James, Jr. Theresa Sanders Jermaine Reed Miko Richardson Tiffaney Oakes Jesse Barnes Monika samuels Tiffany Wheeler Jessikha Williams Moraima Hernandez Tiffany Williams Jodi MsTreena Tone Henderson Joe Seabrooks M'vyonne Payne Tony "prof.t" Tolbert JoeyCuts.com Naturally Trendy Salon Tony Van Trece John Hundley Naturally Trendy Salon & Barber Tovah's Therapeutic Bodywork Johnnie Wilson Neo Natural Soul Toya T.T. Wells Joseph Thomas, Nia Richardson Trilogy Sports & Fitness Joyce Williams Nina Badd UMB Bank Judah Fitness, LLC NuWayv Vicki Kelley Julee Jonez Paget Alves Victor Hooks Karam “Ashot” Johnson Paula Lang W. Sarah Fletcher Karla Gray Performance Packaging Group Warnae Watkins Katrina Leonard Petey Sensay Windell Fields Keanan Weir Phil Spencer Wing Busters Keara Austin Prep With Me Wrayne Simmons Keishaun Redmond Principle Intelligence Zekia Geotcha Kelly Jones Prof T Ken Lumpkins Qiana Bass Kendall Madison Qiana Thomason Kenyatta Woods Qudos Kerwin Young Ralph Caro Kevin Williams Ralph Reid Kiki Curls Ramona Davis

BUSINESS twelvekc.com

THINKING OF A MASTER PLAN TO GROW BUSINESS

By Lena Banks

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f a person were to ask Anthony Williams, President and CEO of the Mid America Minority Supplier Development Council, why is it important for the community to support minority owned businesses, his retort would be, “If we don’t invest in minority owned business, who else will?” A straight forward response from a man who has been a leader in business for over 20 years and has promoted business diversification for an equivalent amount of time.

Williams always knew he had an aptitude for business and he believes leadership is a part of his DNA. Long before his start in corporate America, his entrepreneurial spirit kicked in at around age 12. Whether it was cutting hair or providing lawn care in his community, he always believed in being self-sufficient. As an adult, Williams received his B.A. in Management from Baker University and his Executive MBA from Rockhurst University. He has held a number of executive positions in corporate America and

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within non-profit organizations such as serving as president of 100 Black Men of Kansas City. In 2008, while working at an executive level at Aquila. Williams stepped out on faith and left corporate America to start his own businesses. He felt in the corporate workforce there was always a cap on what he could do, but with his own business, there were no limits. He began to work for himself as a management consultant and he also started an early childhood education company named Beyond Today. In November of 2012, he was elected President and CEO of the Mid America Minority Supplier Development Council.

The Minority Supplier Development Council (MSDC) is an organization whose primary focus

...without our support, “minority owned businesses will become extinct”...

(Continued on page 11)

Tony Keith Scott and Tierra Love

Anthony Williams

President and CEO Mid America Minority Supplier Development Council

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SUCCESS

For the Next Girl Who Dreams

twelvekc.com

ONCE UPON A Chantell Garrett TIME Photos, Raye Jackson

Derrick AUTHOR

Barnes

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Another weekend, and R.U.B.I.E.S. works hands-on with young ladies. Here, Alexis Frazier works on her Vision Board.

Words, Jasmine Jackson

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any people have given up on children in the inner city but Derrick Barnes is passionate about their education and overall well-being. "The same problems we have in Kansas City are the same problems we have in Cincinnati, Brooklyn, Miami, and all over the country. I'm a big education advocate and I feel like my role is to create these positive characters, these beautiful black, brown, African-American, and Latino characters, and get to as many schools as I possibly can. I love meeting parents, love meeting educators. Hopefully, from this side I can help morph education in this country."

As a former recipient of education in Kansas City’s inner city, he feels that the public academic system has failed their students. Barnes' target audiences are elementary and middle school children. Opposed to other children's book authors, he tries to create realistic depictions of a child's experience in everyday life. "I focus on the dia-

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logue of the characters and make that as realistic as possible. A lot of our interaction is non-verbal, we use body language and, I try to focus on that and weave in that REAL language. Not necessarily slang but, sometimes we break off our g's at the end - things like that. So, I really try to focus on character dialogue and character development. One of the first things I learned is the character at the beginning of the book shouldn't be the same at the end of the book."

The ideas for Barnes’ writings come from personal childhood experiences, his wife, four children, and other children he encounters. As of now, his favorite publication is a novel titled We Could Be Brothers, published in 2010, and is his first Kansas City based novel. Barnes' eldest son was a driving force behind the theme for this book after he shared with him that most of his friends are growing up in single-parent homes.

(Continued on page 12)

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(Continued from page 6)

Over 200 businesses have been certified through MSDC. Out of these 200 businesses the economic impact has generated 10.6 billion in revenue. is to build business through community collaboration and diversity. The components of the council are to certify ethnic minority owned businesses, help corporations meet their diversity goals, and promote advocacy of minority owned business.

The council’s demographic covers all of Missouri west of St. Louis, and all of Kansas.

Over 200 businesses have been certified through MSDC. Out of these 200 businesses the economic impact has generated $10.6 billion in revenue. So with numbers that high in generated revenue, why is the awareness of these businesses so low? Williams believes minority owned businesses fail to build a network with one another to expand and grow, which conversely leads to low visibility. As a culture, Williams believes we have a mindset of staying to ourselves, even within business. Whereas, a network of businesses can gain more influence and leverage for the future.

Williams also believes the community fails to support minority owned business because we do not have the businesses we would like to see, right here in our own neighborhoods. Yet, there is a trickle effect that has to take place.

First, we as the community have to invest in (support) our own businesses, thereby stimulating more employment and revenue, which in turn helps businesses flourish in our communities. Williams states that without our support, “minority owned businesses will become extinct�.

Williams hopes to promote more of this mentality to business owners and consumers alike during his tenure as president. His main goal is

to make the MSDC the leading minority business focused organization that actively participates in the economic development of the Missouri and Kansas region.

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Derrick Barnes (Continued from page 9)

"It's about two boys that come from two different households. One is from a singleparent household and the other from a two -parent household where the father is a part of his everyday presence. The boys meet during after school suspension.

They both ended up there from having an altercation with the same boy.” It's like a five-day conversation between two black boys. It just shows how having a dad dictates the way you see the world and other black men or boys. I grew up in a singleparent household and I have four sons.

They have a father that is in their lives every single day."

One of his more recent writings is a series titled Ruby and the Booker Boys. The series does not emulate the storyline in the movie Crooklyn but, has similar characters. "It's about a progressive black family. I love y'all black women, and any opportunity I have to allow y'all to shine I take advantage of it.

There are plenty of examples of black women not being respected. I write children's books so I decided to create a series about a little African-American girl. She was already a character in the book but, my wife came up with the idea to make Ruby the main character. I've known black women my whole life. So, I just took some 12

notes, created the story, and ended up landing a four book deal."

Barnes' has no plans to transition into writing adult books. He wants to remain a children's book author. "I may do a memoir or something like that but I enjoy writing children's books." So far, seven out of eight of his writings have been published through Scholastic yet, he still sees room for improvement. He increasingly wants to become a better parent, husband, and person because that is his life. Life altering events such as surviving Hurricane Katrina in 2005 has shaped his writings and personal life.

The advice he leaves for aspiring children's book authors is valuably practical. ”I think the way publishing is going now with the tablets and everything, it's about different mediums of how to get a hold of a book.

Basic planning and research is what he suggests. “If you want to write a cookbook on Cajun food, you need to do some research and find out who consumes Cajun food.

Determine if you will self-publish or find an agent to secure a publisher. “Figure out who your target audience is and go get ‘em.”

We thank Derrick for using his gifts to be an inspiration to youth an adults.

...It just shows how having a dad dictates the way you see the world, and other black men or boys. I grew up in a single-parent household and, I have four sons. They have a father that is in their lives every single day."

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VOLUME

Chris Cobbins LaToya Traylor

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n one year, singer/songwriter Chris Cobbins has seen his career surge. He’s gone from unsigned pastor's kid from Kansas City, MO to Grammy-nominated writer for his work on Lecrae’s album, “Rehab” (at that time, going by the moniker "Chris Lee"). Chris has also penned songs on multiple Stellar & Dove Award winning projects. He most recently contributed to recording artist Anthony Evans' album "Home". What seemed to be an overnight success was actually the result of years of hard work. The artist spent countless hours perfecting his craft until the opportunity came, positioning him to take full advantage.

Capitalizing on a newfound platform, Cobbins released his very own EP (extended play recording) entitled "The Medicine" in December of 2010, produced by none other than Grammy, Stellar, & Dove Award nominated CheeseBeats.

(Continued on page 26)

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Patience

I want to love you like good hip hop.

consciouslyslow and reflective lost and connected by a common thread of history I want to be spun on the one/ the two break bread and common ground fill the spirit and vibe with you I want that best love test love quest love/ drumming of the heart waxed for the repeat of my favorite part you have me I am had held and placed in the front row of a private space that only we know it is the best of balance designated little maintenance delayed gratification just patience

By Randi McCreary, from the book, "a beautiful mess".

Photo By Smash Glam 16

KISS & NEVER Tell

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Words: LeAndrea Mack Photo: Raye Jackson

rust and honesty are the backbone to any good relationship, right? Shouldn’t your man or woman know everything about you up front in order to build a relationship based on honesty and trust?

Maybe not? I surveyed Kansas City men and women out on the town and the answers were interesting to say the least!

We can all agree that secrets can ruin a thriving relationship. Even little secrets can have disastrous effects on a relationship so how could there be secrets in a healthy relationship?

In surveying the participants, there seemed to be a lot of reserved people that gave programmed answers such as: “I am honest from the beginning” or “I put everything on the table and if he/she can’t accept me for who I am, I don’t need him/her anyway” but as I found a way to get people comfortable, they started to talk and these were the top answers:

“You Won’t Hear This From Me” 

How many sex partners you’ve had?

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How much money you make or spend (as long as it doesn’t jeopardize priorities)



Family secrets (i.e your aunt isn’t your grandfather’s biological child or that Uncle Vince has been clean for 25 years)

keep your mouth shut when:

Sharing the secret will not only hurt your partner’s feelings but also won’t accomplish anything. 

Things that should never be kept secret: 

You've cheated on him/her

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Where you see the relationship going

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You have (or have had) any STDs

But confess when:    

The only reason you haven’t told is because you are embarrassed.

Talking it out may actually make you feel better!

There is a chance that he/she could find out anyway. It’s better if it comes from you!

It is a parenting mistake. This no longer just involves YOU! The secret affects others (for example, you lost your job or were diagnosed with a life altering medical condition).

It's about someone in his/her family. If your husband's brother may be cheating on his wife, let someone else bring it up. 

In the end, you won’t find a perfect answer to every situation. The TRUTH is just one in a handful of cards in life’s poker game. Know when to play your “secret” card for maximum benefit with minimum grief.

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SCENE

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January 20, 2014

SCLC Mass Celebration, Metropolitan Missionary Baptist Church. Speaker, Rev. Dr. Vernon Howard, Jr.

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By Kingsley Kantan

NSBE NATIONAL SOCIETY OF BLACK ENGINEERS

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STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields are essential for improvement and enable

nka

enhanced standard of living. These fields touch almost every facet of life. In general, there is a shortage of STEM professionals and too few college students seek STEM-related degrees. The statistics get worse in the Black Community. Data from the US Census Bureau shows the shortage of Black students pursuing STEM degrees and Black STEM professionals. According to the data, Blacks make up less than 5 percent of major STEM fields including: computer and information science, astronomy, physics, and engineering. It is vital, in order to diversify STEM fields, to enhance efforts to increase the number of African Americans who study and build careers in STEM (Continued on page 22)

“The impact NSBE-KC seeks to make matters tremendously in improving the lot of Black students and professionals in STEM fields.�

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(Continued from page 21)

fields.

The National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) is one of the non-profit organizations that seek to open doors for minorities to pursue education and occupations in STEM fields. The mission of the organization is: To increase the number of culturally responsible Black engineers who excel academically, succeed professionally, and positively impact the community.

Locally, NSBE-KC Professionals strives to carry out this three-part mission through events and opportunities for current and prospective STEM professionals.

collegiate NSBE chapters such as: University of Missouri—Columbia; Missouri University of Science and Technology; University of Missouri— Kansas City; and, University of Kansas.

Collegiate members from these universities are encouraged to attend NSBE-KC events. Students who attend such events are able to network with professionals in STEM fields who prove to be helpful with job connections.

Members of NSBE-KC Professionals also benefit from monthly “NSBE Nights” events focused on networking, professional development, and knowledge sharing.

The organization also offers members a great way to give back to the community through outreach projects such as: MS Walk, Habitat for Humanity, and NSBE-KC seeks to have a lasting impact, and as such mentoring opportunities. This year NSBE-KC will focuses a lot of resources to encouraging Black have its first A Walk for Education event to raise youths to pursue careers in STEM fields. The organiSTEM zation emawareploys preNot just a resource for engineering and S.T.E.M. information, NSBE-KC presented a Health & ness and collegiate Wellness seminar at the general body meeting with chiropractor, Dr. Adam Boender. raise initiatives funds for to expose scholarBlack youths to ships.

The imthe vast pact potential NSBE-KC for success seeks to STEM fields make offer. In matters the past, tremenNSBE-KC dously in has: had improving outreaches the lot of to local Black middle and students high and proschools fessionals through in STEM NSBE Jr.; fields. partnered NSBE-KC with Black aims to Family serve individuals who make the decision to take the pathway to success through STEM fields. The organiTechnology Awareness Association; and, provided zation is always looking for ways to partner with classroom speakers for Project Lead the Way. At the other organizations and individuals to enhance efforts end of the academic year, NSBE-KC hosts a Scholarto positively impact the Greater Kansas City commuship & Awards Banquet to celebrate the year’s accomplishments and also gives scholarships to high school nity. seniors who decide to pursue a STEM degree upon graduation.

For more information about NSBE-KC, to learn how you can become a member, or form a partnership NSBE-KC’s dedication does not end at the preplease contact Kingsley Kantanka via email at collegiate level. The organization is vested in the academic achievements and development of college stukingsley.kantanka@gmail.com. dents. NSBE-KC provides guidance and assistance to

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twelvekc.com

Kingsley Kantanka President, NSBE-KC

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TASTE

Aphrodisiacs

The Flavor of Love Katrina LLC

herbs contain libido boosting ingredients, Valentine’s Day is celebrated as a spedeeming them aphrodisiacs. For example, cial holiday of love across the world. StoReader’s Digest states that oysters contain ries of romance start and flourish throughamino acids that some say trigger the proout the season that embody the spirit of duction of sex hormones. Another example is Saint Valentine and Cupid, the god of basil. Basil is noted by the Greeks to stimulate Love. Unfortunately, this time of year is the sex drive and boost fertility. also a bit stressful for those who are celebrating, as they are trying their best to To the left, a short list of some commonly find just the right way to, once again, win eaten foods that you may not know over that "special someone’s" are aphrodisiacs. heart.

A list of some known Men, in particular, find themselves searching for the best gifts that will make their significant other feel especially wonderful on this day, and women try their best to play out their partner’s fantasy night with their "leading lady".

Gifts? A romantic evening? Let’s be honest: The end game is about great sex - excuse me – lovemaking. In case your gift is subpar due to budget or lack of thought, it’s best to stack the odds in your favor by having the right meal.

aphrodisiacs.

1. Asparagus 2. Avocado 3. Basil 4. Bananas 5. Champagne 6. Chocolate 7. Figs 8. Garlic 9. Oysters 10. Strawberries

The Flavor of Love We all know what an aphrodisiac does, right? Well, for the unindoctrinated, here it is. As noted in Webster’s dictionary, an aphrodisiac is "an agent such as food or drug which assists in arousal of sexual desire." In short, "something that excites".

In addition to knowing what an aphrodisiac does, it is even more important for us to know examples of aphrodisiacs. Now, a vast variety of foods and 24

These, sweethearts, are the pieces of the Holy Grail that will set your Valentines on fire! After all, food is known to be the way to a man’s heart, but these ingredients make the meal equally pleasurable for both the man and woman.

Setting the STAGE! All the work is done. You are beautiful, the table is set, and your well thought out gift is close by. The ambiance is on point with candles lit and lights dimmed. You have generously prepared a meal, fit for a king, using at least some of your aphrodisiacs.

Here’s a 3-Course suggestion, sure to win: 1st-Oysters Rockefeller 2nd-Avocado Pesto Pasta 3rd-Chocolate Covered Strawberries All beautifully paired and served with champagne!!!

Pop the cork ladies... This Valentine’s Day will be just what they’ve always wished for!

Happy Romancing!

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(Continued from page 14)

This 7-song introduction of Chris Cobbins features the smash single “Chase Me Down” which encourages us to flee from temptation and sprint to the cross. What is Chris Cobbins up to now?

XII Magazine: First question, what are your goals?

Chris Cobbins: My goals are to produce good art, use my art to display truth, & hopefully provoke some thought along the way.

XII Magazine: What makes you different?

Chris Cobbins: How I process information. I think that's what makes us all different along with the paths of our individual lives. I try to take what I've seen, experienced, and learned along the way and present in a way that a stranger can get a glimpse of my heart.

XII Magazine: What are your feelings about the opportunities for an artist in Kansas City?

Chris Cobbins: There aren't as many opportunities for the genre I am in...Urban Christian. That doesn't concern me that much. Up to this point in my career I've won and been nominated for awards that I never thought possible all from KC. I think the point is to take what you have and maximize it. That may mean having to move but it also means not complaining about the hand you're dealt but instead manipulating your current situation to come out on top. For me, that includes trusting God and serving Him as I hone my craft.

XII Magazine: Besides music, do you have any other passions?

Chris Cobbins: My musical passion is really just the microphone for my true passion and that's

taking the truth of scripture and bringing it to the plate of this growing generation. There are a lot of simple principles we've missed and I think it's due to not having a strong fundamental foundation. Changing the world is a bit of an overwhelming task for just one guy…I try to one conversation and/or song at a time XII Magazine: Do you have any current projects?

Chris Cobbins: “Hello World” was released Oct. 8th, 2013 It’s my current project and debut album!

I’m very excited to have completed it. It debuted at #33 on the Billboard Gospel charts. I'm already working on new music. Art never sleeps. "Hello World" is my handshake to the public, musically introducing myself as Chris Cobbins, the artist.

You'll hear an arc of all the genres I love and write/perform within (Hip-Hop, R&B, Pop, Rock, Acoustic, Dance). Lyrically, it's me unveiling the lessons learned in the past few years along with some upbeat songs that were meant to simply lift your spirits. I also intend to encourage the broken and challenge the complacent with this project because I have been both. Hopefully someone can learn from the lessons, I have.

"Hello World" was largely produced by Tha Kracken. The album features appearances from Reflection Music Groups's Tony Tillman, Reconcile from Frontline Media, & Grammy Award winner Lecrae. "Hello World" finished its first week at the #33 position on the Billboard Gospel Chart. Stay tuned because it seems that Chris Cobbins will be here for a long time to come.

XII Magazine: It’s great to know your talents are being heard nationwide. We thank you for taking the time to talk with us and we wish you continued success!

Catch Chris Cobbins on INSPIRED, the brand new CD compilation from XII Magazine. It features some of KC finest Gospel and Inspirational music. Hear it now or download it at twelvekc.com

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Part II of the TWELVE Magazine Anniversary Weekend!

Back By Popular Demand (BBPD). This one was called FOUNDERS DAY held at Groove Station and featuring KC’s Alumni Black Greek Organizations. Thanks to those who attended, especially in the SNOW!

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ALL GREEK FOUNDERS DAY SALUTE

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TECH TECHNOLOGY Here to stay and ever-evolving.

Iman Lott, Words, Diamond Jones, Model Shemeka Cockerm, Photo Styling & Make-up,

DROID “...recently reported, Google has purchased seven different robot companies for a secretive new robotics initiative and placed Andy Rubin, the creator of the Android operating system at its head. We see movies and television shows depicting Androids living and existing side by side with humans and it makes me wonder what the future holds.�

Courtesy of Kenny Johnson Photography

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“You remember rotary phones?” I asked my mother, “Of course” she responds.“Did you have one?” “If you had a phone you did. Actually, I don’t remember touch tones coming around until I was maybe in middle school or High school. ““Was it a big deal?”

“Yes, no one ever pictured being able to make a phone call that fast.”

echnology has always been a big deal. It has relied on the idea that there has to be an easier way to perform certain tasks. Whether you are making a phone call to keep in touch or catching up on the days events, over the years technology has grown stronger, wiser, and absolutely more accessible. But has it made us too comfortable or even too reliant on its existence? I chatted with a few friends to get their opinion:

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"To be honest, technology has given me reasons to be a lazier friend, shopper, and employee. I mean consider how much more convenient it is to text or email that friend or coworker while you simultaneously get other things done. Not to mention, shopping online has saved me numerous trips around the city looking for that perfect fashion piece” says Patricia Smith a school psychologist.

“For me personally, the technological advancements of the last 20 years have been a great thing. In college I went from having to go to the library to source material for papers to being able to find viable material on Lexus Nexus. It's definitely been a good thing” stated Damon Smith an educator and freelance journalist.

While technology has afforded many of us opportunities to multi-task with convenience, has it been disadvantageous to relationship building? Social media and technology help us stay connected, but they can all too easily provide ways for us to restrict ourselves to a digital bubble, cutting off access to the energy and wisdom only found in offline, in-person groups. What happened to the days when people wrote letters or stopped by to say hello? Long gone are the days where you had to actually “know” someone to call them your friend. Remember when you got to choose who had access to pictures of you? Where would we be without Facebook, Instagram, or twitter?

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“We must not forget the impact of human-to-human contact when fostering authentic relationships with people. I can say from personal experience that over-reliance on mobile devices or other forms of technology to communicate can be an epic fail! I don't care how many emoticons exist in your keyboard you cannot effectively show emotion with technology without it being misunderstood in some way” adds Patricia.

“Using social media and texting to stay in touch with friends and family is a positive thing. However, when spending quality time with friends and family those same mediums can ruin the moment if someone is glued to one of their devices. We all just have to remember to unplug every now and then to enjoy what is in front of us” responds Angela Nixon, a stay-at-home mom.

I agree. When sitting with my parents one Sunday afternoon supposedly having “family time”, my dad randomly inquired on the net worth of a famous rap mogul whom shall remain nameless (rhymes with Jay-Z). My younger brother and I simultaneously stated, “GOOGLE IT”.

We then proceeded to spend the rest of the afternoon using our phones to search for the net worth of famous actors, actresses, musicians and even athletes rather than spending time enjoying each other’s company.

That got me wondering, are we too dependent on technology?

“I don't think so” says Damon “the people who genuinely attempt to knock or thwart technological advancements need to try to understand them instead of dissing what they don't get. That's the direction the world is headed in and if you don't try to understand it and mesh with it, you'll be the bumbling analog person in an evolving digital universe”.

"I see technology as omnipresent in our society. It's not going anywhere as long as we have businesses to run, children to teach, staff to develop, and shopping to do” comments Patricia.

“Like anything else in this world, balance is the key. We have to be conscious of whether technology is enhancing or hindering the things we value most” says Angela.

Publications, including The New York Times, have recently reported Google has purchased seven different robot companies for a secretive new robotics initiative and placed Andy Rubin, the creator of the Android operating system at its head. We see movies and television shows depicting androids living and existing side by side with humans and it makes me wonder what the future holds.

“Technology's future is only limited by our imaginations” says Damon. “I can't say where we're going to go, but I'm always excited to see what's next and I'm willing to attempt to understand whatever comes” States Angela, “I can't imagine someone trying to explain Facebook or YouTube to me 20 years ago. I expect technology to develop beyond my imagination 20 years from now. I just hope that I am still around by the time the flying ‘Jetsons-style’ car is put into production.”

HISTORY

By Anna Thomas-Rios

Dr. John Hope Franklin n 2008, shortly before his death, I had the privilege of meeting Dr. John Hope Franklin. Having received my undergraduate degree in history, I was very familiar with his work. Now I was standing face to face with this man who literally wrote the book on history. He was kind, attentive, gentlemanly, and wore a beautiful orchid in his lapel.

In a room of hundreds of people there to hear him speak, he stood to speak to me and focused intently on our discussion of my personal academic adventures.

After that encounter, I could grasp the term “a gentleman and a scholar”.

refusing to ride in the “Negro coach”. His mother told him not to waste his tears, to instead put that energy toward proving he was as good as his white counterparts.

Dr. Franklin's most seminal work is From Slavery to Freedom: A History of African Americans, originally published in 1947 and revised several times and translated into four other languages. In it, Dr. Franklin chronicles the progression of Africans from slavery, through migration, through the struggle for equality and in the latest edition, the election of the first African American United States President. This text, required reading on college campuses across the country, changed the way American History was viewed.

Dr. Franklin was different from many academics in that he also spent his career on the front lines of the fight for equality. He served as the primary reference for the pivotal Brown vs the Topeka Board of Education case. He refused speaking engagements in February, Black History Month, because of his belief that limiting such important history to one month was insulting. He also opposed the establishment of Black Studies programs based on similar rationale that it was offensively and inaccurately limiting because “African American history” was, indeed, American history.

Dr. Franklin was born and raised in a segregated society.

As a boy, he and his family were forced off a train after 32

“...this man who literally wrote the book on history…”

That encounter was the impetus that drove Dr. Franklin into researching and documenting African Americans and their experiences in America and becoming the preeminent scholar and expert on the history. Dr. Franklin would publish countless works, often breaking from research for lunch only to be unable to eat in segregated restaurants.

He and his bride spent their honeymoon researching for his dissertation, “The Free Negro in North Carolina, 1790 - 1860”.

Aside from history, his passion was breeding orchids. Dr. Franklin is revered as one of the most important scholars in the United States, but he also lives on in his love of orchids: in 1976, the phalaenopsis became better known as the John Hope Franklin orchid.

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Amiri Baraka T

his year started with the loss of prominent poet and activist Amiri Baraka. Mr. Baraka, born Everett Leroy Jones, was critiqued as both controversial and inspirational.

Spending most of his life in Newark, NJ, Mr. Baraka grew from middle class child to Beat poet to so-called agitator.

After being dishonorably discharged from the Air Force as an accused Communist, he ended up in Greenwich Village where he started a magazine with his new wife and new name, Leroi Jones.

Mr. Baraka became an active part of the Beat Movement, an American social and literary movement originating in the 1950s in the bohemian artist communities, along with Allen Ginsberg and Jack Kerouac. But as he developed further into a writer, he became more removed from the Beat scene and more extreme in his writing and beliefs. With the assassination of MalRegardless of the colm X, the Cucritic’s opinions, it ban Revolution and can’t be denied that the NewMr. Baraka has an ark Riots, he would important place in abandon his wife--a literary and Ameriwhite can history.” woman-and children and return to Newark, becoming a Black Nationalist. It was then that Leroi Jones became Amiri Baraka.

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Mr. Baraka then met and married his second wife, Amina Baraka, also an activist and writer and had five more children. Together they started community centers and held poetry readings. His writings continued becoming more controversial. He brought the Civil Rights Era into the arts, developing the Black Arts Movement, and raged against liberals who called for unity among races. He became

HISTORY

By Anna Thomas-Rios

active on the lecture circuit, advocating violence in order to create a Black society. He was active in and an inspiration for the Black Power Movement, in particular the Black Panthers, the Congress of African People, the National Black Conference Movement and the Black Women’s United Front.

He would eventually distance himself from the Black Arts Movement he created and become more Marxist in his views. He became a professor at SUNY -Stoneybrook and Rutgers and was named Poet Laureate of New Jersey

by Governor McGreevey. However his poem, “Somebody Blew Up America?”, about the September 11th Attacks, was labeled anti-Semitic and the appointment was widely criticized.

The public called for his removal and the post was legislatively dissolved to relieve him of his duties. He would later renounce his anti-Semitic views.

Mr. Baraka died in Newark, New Jersey at Beth Israel Medical Center on January 9, 2014. Regardless of the critics’ opinions, it can’t be denied that Mr. Baraka has an important place in literary and American history. He was labeled an agitator, racist, homophobe, and sexist; yet he also received a Guggenheim Fellowship, induction into the American Academy of Arts and Letters, an Obie Award, and countless other honors. It may not be possible to agreeably critique Mr. Baraka’s works but what his life, and therefore his legacy, ultimately represent is the human being’s search for the ultimate truth and the ability to change.

GROOVE STATION 9916 Holmes Rd. | KCMO 816.942.1699 Tues-Sat 11am - 1:30a Sun 11am - 12Midnight

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PLACES One of the newest destinations for KC’s “Grown Folk”.

Restaurant and lounge with a separate game room, VIP and dance areas. Flat screens on display for the big game or TV watch night. In between DJ sets, control the groove with their signature jukebox onsite.

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HISTORY

BIRTHPLACE OF THE NEGRO LEAGUES

Paseo YMCA, just off 18th & Paseo Blvd, KCMO, served as the primary meeting place for Black organizations and clubs. Housed the only swimming pool the Blacks could use. February 13, 1920, the first AfricanAmerican professional league was formed, the National Negro League.

Now, named the John “Buck” O’Neil Center, it’s being renovated as an education and research center.

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SCENE DeRay Davis Comedian/Actor

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1/3/14. FIRST FRIDAYS KC, an H,G.E. Move, kicked off the year with #FFLYKC at Z-Strike featuring the roast of Ken Lumpkins, the #12MAG B-day Bash which included the Jan issue release and LIVE Photoshoot by Smash Glam! Sponsors, XII Magazine and Fly Society KC.

#FFLYKC

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FEATURE

TRUTH Is...

One woman is all I need...

Words, Randi McCreary Photos, Smash Glam

Mark Twain once said, “Always

tell the truth. That way, you don’t have to remember what you said”.

Although there is a bit of humor behind the quote, the sentiment is quite real. When you allow yourself to be completely honest you avoid the issue of getting caught up in a tangled web of stories that will most likely be exposed. You set a standard. You make it known that no matter how awkward it may be, the truth is what you want. You also give your partner the opportunity to make their own sound decisions based on the facts. Scripture tells us that, “ Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.”

Honesty in relationships. Sounds nice, in theory. But what you feel, want and say can often be at odds and moving in different directions.

Relationships struggle with this reality.

Can you handle the TRUTH?

(Continued on page 45)

Models: Augustin Kinney & Jaima Saunders 42

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...TWO more women is all I want.

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Models: Latoya Gant, Augustin Kinney, Sanay Alexander

CAN’T TRUST THE TRUTH

I don’t trust him. I’ll scan his Facebook page to see what women are after him. I feel like even when we’re together, he’s got his eyes on someone else.

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(Continued from page 42)

Affirmations remind us that “the truth will set you free” and “honesty is the best policy”, but when it comes to relationships, what constitutes the right amount of honesty?

A relationship begins as a building block. The foundation sets the tone for what will ultimately happen and how successful it will be. If you enter into a commitment, you agree to be honest with one another to make the relationship work. The more transparent you become as a couple, the easier it can be to tackle obstacles, build understanding and solidify trust. Most couples in a relationship would agree that being honest about issues like infidelity and finances are non-negotiables. These are sensitive subjects that can damage a relationship if couples are not candid with each other. Without hesitation, you should let (Continued on page 46)

Models: DeShaun Allen & Tashoy Mitchem

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(Continued from page 45)

your partner know when you have lost feelings, have met someone new or are having financial problems.

But what happens when you encounter those smaller issues that fall under the category of stretching the truth a little or inserting a little white lie to spare someone’s feelings? A white lie is supposedly harmless, but in a relationship even the smallest mistruth can become an issue in the bigger picture. I fondly remember an episode of The Cosby Show where Sandra’s boyfriend Elvin attempted to compliment her by telling her she looked more beautiful than he had ever seen her. Annoyed by his lack of consideration, Sandra reminded him that it was, in fact, the third time that he had seen her in the same dress. His reply was, “I don’t remember the other times.”

At some point in our lives, we probably have all spared someone’s feelings. We weigh the situation (Continued on page 51)

Models: Amilee Turner, Hilari Holt, Jacoya Rivers

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UGLY TRUTH

Sometimes there’s that awkward moment where you overhear someone describing spending time with your man. Her story. Your man.

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EYES DON’T LIE...TRUTH

Face, hair, eyes, nails., body. Men, these are weapons of mass destruction. Women claim it’s really about making themselves feel good.

Men, don’t trust it.

Look closely. You get caught up because It’s all FOR and ABOUT you.

Models: Latoya Gant, Jacoya Rivers

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CALENDAR

Alpha Phi Alpha on the scene at Xii Magazine’s event, #READY, 9.6.13, at the Ambassador Hotel. They’ve got a BIG plans for KC. Visit kcsoul.com for all the haps. You don’t want to miss this.

Add your upcoming events and more to kcsoul.com. Just create a login or use your Facebook log-in.

Sat 02/08 Jazz Brunch Venue: Overland Park Convention Center: 6100 College Blvd Overland Park KS Time: 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM Producer: Mu Omega Contact: Email: akamuomega@yahoo.com Phone: 816-918-2608 Sat 02/08 Life Changing Event in Kcmo Venue: Brush Creek Community Center: 3801 Emanuel Cleaver II Blvd KCMO Time: 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM Producer: GYRL Contact: THURMAN DAVIS Email: votpgyrl@yahoo.com Phone: 816 2550479 Sat 02/08 AEZ 75th Anniversary Gala Venue: Donnelly Event Center: 608 N 18th St Kansas City KS Time: 5:30 PM - 11:00 PM Producer: Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Inc Alpha Epsilon Zeta Chapter Contact: Lara Email: info@zphibkck.org Web: 50 zphibaez75gala.eventbrite.com

Thu 02/13 Love Jonez Venue: Nica's Cajun Kitchen: 320 SW Blvd Kansas City MO Time: 7:00 PM - 11:00 PM Producer: Omicron Xi Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Contact: Jarrett Dillard Email: jarrett.dillard@yahoo.com Phone: 816-419-5759 Web: http://www.omicronxilambda.org Tue 02/18 Job Recruitment Fair Venue: Brio's Tuscan Grille: 502 Nichols Road Kansas City MO Time: 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM Producer: Edward Jones (presented by 100 BMGKC) Contact: Eric McTye Email: Eric.McTye@edwardjones.com Phone: 913-299-3600 Sat 02/22 Financial Aid Workshop Venue: Southeast Library: 6242 Swope Parkway Kansas City MO Time: 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM Producer: KC NCBW

Contact: YaLonda Smith-Johnson Email: ncbwkc@gmail.com Phone: 816-974-3237 Web: www.nationalcongressbw.org Sat 02/22 Woman only in Politics Seminar Venue: Bluford Library: 3050 Prospect Ave. Kansas City MO Time: 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM Producer: GYRL Contact: MS. E Email: votpgyrl@yahoo.com Phone: 816 651-0044 Fri 02/28 All Black MasQUErade Affair Venue: KC Airport Hilton (Shawnee Ballroom): 8801 NW 112 St Kansas City MO Time: 9:00 PM - 2:00 AM Producer: Omicron Iota Iota Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc Contact: John Nolan Email: johns.nolan@hotmail.com Phone: 478-335-2287

kcsoul.com KCs Urban Source. Add Your Events!

(Continued from page 46)

“The best method for gauging the honesty in your relationship is determining what you both want in the long run. “

in our minds and realize it might be easier to temper the truth.

These common scenarios are often played out in sitcoms and movies. We’ve all seen the woman getting ready for a night out on the town. She is trying on her favorite dress, checking herself twice in the mirror to make sure that she looks alright and turns to her husband for that final confirmation, asking, “Honey, does this dress make me look fat?”

been plenty of times I asked my husband if I looked ok and his response was ‘yes’ without ever looking in my direction. I’ve learned to more or less just laugh it off and realize that it is ok. Life is too short to take the small stuff to seriously.”

In a split second the man must decide how he is going to answer this burning question. He can tell her what she wants to hear, put a smile on her face and ultimately keep peace between them for the rest of the night or he can be brutally honest. The first scenario is always the easy save. There are no hard feelings and by simply not mentioning what he really thinks he avoids any conflict. But does this avoidance really make the situation better? It provides temporary solution to an immediate situation. If he chooses to be honest and replies, “Actually, it does make you look a little heavy” he may feel he is going to risk hurting her feelings and potentially ruin the night. So which is the right choice, honesty or courtesy?

Not everyone shares Marilyn’s sentiments.

The same dose of dishonesty that might be easy for some to swallow is intolerable for others. There is the risk of dishonesty snowballing. One small lie could potentially lead to another and another lying becomes a more serious issues. A long- term commitment is going to encounter more than just questions about how you big or small one appears in their clothing. Life will throw you challenging moments that may very well tempt you into withholding the truth.

The best method for gauging the honesty in your relationship is determining what you both want in the long run. If you want to feel like you can truly depend on your partner to be honest when no one else will, avoid even the white lies. Sure, you may be thrown a dirty look or be subject to a brief lecture for being so blunt, but that is a risk worth taking to ensure that the person you are sharing with can fully trust what you say in the good times and the bad.

Marilyn Woods, a resident of Kansas City has often found herself in similar situations with her own spouse. “When you are with someone you learn to focus on what matters. Sneaking in a compliment when you really don’t mean it can be harmless and might even give your wife that extra boost of confidence she needed. There have 51

Model: Sanay Alexander

FITNESS by: Gabrielle Phillips

What’s Up With Your Gut? a high intense core workout, can be of great help, but its not the source of great health. To obtain that, we have to focus our attention on what's happening underneath the surface.

W

ith the turn of a new year, many have their agendas set with their goals in mind. Among those goals, weight loss, getting in shape, and better health is at the top of the list. It doesn't matter whether you are on thin side, in between, or voluptuously blessed, today were are going to talk about the importance of your gut and why you just can't live without it!

Now I know you're probably thinking "I am reading the fitness article, right?" Absolutely, but being healthy starts with getting your gut in order from the inside out. Sure engaging in combat with your inner man against

Have you ever considered the saying, "just go with your gut." Well it turns out that the digestive system is more than just a warehouse for processing foods. In fact it is one the most intricately designed structures in our body. Our gut, also known as the second brain, has been equipped with its own reflexes and senses to control its behavior independently from the brain. That's amazing!

Your gut can function without any direct orders from the brain. With over 100 million neurons, more than in either the spinal cord or peripheral nervous system, our second brain has the ability to inform our state of mind. This means that a major part of our emotions are influenced by the nerves in your gut. Scientists are finding that this system, known as the enteric nervous system, plays an important part in not only our physical, but mental well-being as well. In a healthy gut, the good bacteria outnumber the bad. This balance helps lower blood cholesterol, synthesis vitamins, and boost the immune system. Are you starting to see just how important keeping your gut healthy really is? In addition to all of  Use herbs that feed good bacteria in the gut this, 70% of the immune system is in your gut! such as, ginseng, ginkgo biloba, licorice, and

What to Do:

chamomile. To keep the bad population down, while cooking use herbs and spices such as cumin, cinnamon, parsley, nutmeg, and coriander.

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

To boost gut bacteria with probiotics and prebiotics, live yogurt and fermented drinks like kefir need to be apart of your everyday diet.



Raw oats, unrefined wheat and barley, leeks, Jerusalem artichokes, garlic, chickory, asparagus, dandelion greens and bananas are great sources as well.

So what are we waiting for, lets get gut healthy.

Because of our family's fast paced lifestyle, we have incorporated natural alternatives into our everyday life. Here are some simple steps that you can take to increase the good bacteria in your gut: So in order to feel and look good we have to do good to our bodies from the inside out. Make this year new for you.

Interested in ordering herbs or water kefir to jumpstart your health? Contact Gabrielle@trilogyexplosion.com.

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