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 III, Issue IV
COVER
APRIL 2015
Kavan Mccambry DON’T MISS
Another Great Issue!
Calendar 52
Welcome to number FOUR of TWELVE. April is National Poetry Month. See our Gospel of Poets features.
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
BUSINESS: Mark Mulmore
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Health & Fitness Lonnie Bush
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MUSIC: VEDO
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That’s just the beginning. Community, business, politics and more. It’s all here. If you’ve missed the top events in town find the reviews here too. Be sure to discover upcoming events and take note of what’s happening in the city. 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 info@twelvekc.com to get involved and send us feedback, too! Sincerely,1
Ken L kcsoul.com
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HISTORY: NLBM
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TRAVEL: The Dominican
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ARTS: Gospel of Poets
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COMMUNITY: Ken Bacchus
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@TWELVEKC
What’s Different? Read It & Experience it Live 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 To all of Our Writers, Designers, Planners, Contributors, Advertisers & Supporters of Xii.
PICTURED: KEN BACCHUS Photo By: Ken Lumpkins
Ken L. Shemeka Cockerm Keyana Collins Kween Colston DJ Franklin Jasmine Jackson Raye Jackson Katrina Leonard Clarence Lomax Iman Lott Sherry Lumpkins LeAndrea Mack Randi McCreary Carlanda McKinney Gary Mitchell Casie Murff Earl Smith Tony Van Trece Jessikha Williams Christopher White
twelvekc.com twelve@kcsoul.com
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@twelvekc
BUSINESS
PROMOTER
DeMarcus Weeks CEO of U-Hoops U-hoops.com
ARTIST FILMMAKER
MARK’S MY BARBER PHOTOGRAPHER RAPPER
OH YEAH…& SKATER
By Jasmine Jackson
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TWELVEKC.COM
Photo: Ken Lumpkins
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Photo: Ken Lumpkins
TWELVEKC.COM 8
MarksMyBarber Thinking of a Master Plan. Photo: Ken Lumpkins
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ansas City Urban nightlife is not the easiest market to conquer. Very few promoters have successfully maintained reputable longevity here. Mark Mulmore is one of the privileged individuals that has been able to reach the young adults of KC’s nightlife. The MarksMyBarber brand was birthed after his debut event The Black Party in 2010 for his birthday. Since then, Mark has received much support from young patrons in Kansas City.
Amping up Kansas City's nightlife was not always a passion of Mark's. As his moniker suggests, barbering is the profession that predated his nightlife endeavors. At the young age of 10, Mark began cutting his own hair because his mother did not always have the luxury of getting all three of her boys a haircut on a weekly basis. He developed a love for cutting hair and that spiraled into a career by the age of 19. (Continued on page 11)
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Photo: Raye Jackson
TWELVEKC.COM
Mark: The Artist
DeMarcus Weeks has played on the pro level and now is helping others do the same.
(Continued from page 9)
Styles don’t really changes in the barber world, according to Mark. Minor trends may crop up but they’re usually repeating history. For instance, the long side burns with a fade was a trend in the early 1920s and men are wearing them now again. "A fade is a fade" says Mark. Barbering is still his first love. However, he admits that even though he loves being a barber, it can (just like anything else) burn one out. For him, barbering is long-term. It is something a person can do for a significant length of time and for that reason, he has no plans to leave the game. However, pursuing other business ventures keeps him engaged in exploiting his total talents. Mark has done well making a name for himself as a nightlife promoter, but he’s learned to be a one-man machine. He’s the graphic artist for his flyers, the director for his videos, and photographer whenever there’s a need. He is also 11
a rapper and in his music, he likes to reflect on experiences from his past and present, as well as his goals and desires. He prides himself on remaining true to himself in his lyrics. Where his other talents are used for business he enjoys the downtime for another passion. In his leisure time, he is a diehard roller skater with multiple trophies under his belt. In honor of his love for roller skating, he hosted a skate party on March 28th. He wanted to bring the skate spirit to Kansas City that he sees in other cities. “Skating is not the phenomenon in KC that you will find in Memphis, Atlanta or Houston where national skate parties are held annually”, he says.
Perfecting his crafts is something Mark wants to continually work toward. He is a firm believer in giving equal efforts to all of his undertakings because "They are blessings from God". Follow him today @MarksMyBarber.
FITNESS
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TWELVEKC.COM
Photo By: Ken Lumpkins 13
MONIQUE WATERS Fitness & Health Expert
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TONE THOSE LEGS!
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itness is her life. However, stepping into her fitness center, you soon discover that’s only part of the story. The walls are pink and adorned with pink ribbons. There’s also a selection of wigs. Why? Lonnie Bush is a breast cancer survivor and has found a higher purpose in helping others through their struggle. Even through her bout with cancer, chemotherapy and radiation, due to her commitment to fitness and helping others, she never canceled her fitness classes. “Never give up” is a silent but palpable mantra for Bush. That’s her personal testimony and what she communicates to others on their road to a healthy lifestyle. She calls her fitness routine the LBF Total Body Workout. It’s a high energy, aerobic styled experience, where clients work Leg workout. from head to toe. Feet at least
SQUATS
With summer approaching, we asked Lonnie to share a tip for those trying to get beach ready. Shorts to sundresses, you’ve got to get those legs right. Bring on the squats.
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shoulder length
apart. Don’t just bend at the waist, lower yourself as if you were sitting. Return to a standing position, squeeze and repeat. Weights recommended, if available.
From weight loss to toning, LBF is here to help. www.lonniebushfitness.com (816) 353-1414 6715 Blue Ridge Blvd.
MUSIC
Vedo
VEDO: Music’s NEXT star. He’s a Platinum Power Moves recording artist. You’ve seen him on season four of NBC’s The Voice, mentored by Usher. Winner of the 2014 Georgia Music Award for best male artist of the year and his single, “All I Wanna Do”, is ranking in the top 50 on urban radio. Vedo was in KC for the Hot 103 Jamz Music Conference.
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VEDO: LIFE & MUSIC 12: So, since you initially relocated to Atlanta for school, what inspired you to pursue a career in music?
ber after member but they kept going. They swapped members like they do clothes but they still stayed true to the music no matter what.
Vedo: The inspiration came way before high school and even middle school. It was actually when I was 11 years old. I performed in church for the first time. My church is one of those churches that told you the truth! Some churches try to sugarcoat it and make you feel good. My church will tell you "Baby, no. We're gonna give you somethin' else to do around here".
12: I can hear those influences in your music. I've heard some songs that I really like and most of them cater to the ladies. So, who is your target audience and what is your music mostly about?
My mom surprised me one day and told the congregation that I would be singing for them so I got up there and did my thing. She told them "my son will be opening today" and I was like "Wow, mama what you talkin' about?!" but, I still got up there and did my thing. The congregation was so warm and welcoming. The way I felt after singing to them had me feeling like this is the way I want to feel forever and this is the way I wanted to make people feel. Everybody was like "You got it! You have a gift from God." and the inspiration came from that and just being without, being homeless, not having food to eat, things like that. All of that was a motivation for me to be something. 12: Throughout your childhood, was there a specific artist that inspired you? If so, why?
My target audiEverybody was like Vedo: ence is overall…is people, period. Even if it is a "You got it! You love song, that could be for anybody. I could be have a gift from talking about a woman of course the men God." and the in- but could actually love the too. They could spiration came from song, feel like this song speaks them. So, my target that and just being for audience is just people who come from nothing, without, being people who can relate people homeless, not hav- towhothecanstruggle, relate to having loved and lost. Most of ing food to eat, my music is about womand, of course, we things like that. All en, have some sexual and records but overall of that was a moti- club it's all about who I am up in a 3 vation for me to be summed minutes and 30 seconds song. something.
Vedo: There were many artists that inspired me. Usher of course, Stevie Wonder, and The Temptations. These were artists that I looked up to because they all had a story as well. Stevie Wonder was special because he was blind and a phenomenal artist at the same time. He exemplifies an impaired artist that still followed his dreams. He couldn’t see where he was going (literally) but continued to chase his dreams. He was one of those artists that stayed true to it no matter what. Even Usher, had a decent upbringing from what I heard but he was told ‘no’ by so many people. Doors were close in his face but he stayed persistent and he is who he is today because of it. Also, The Temptations, lost mem17
By Jasmine Jackson
12: You were a finalist for The Voice for #TeamUsher. Are you still in contact with Usher? Vedo: I talk to Usher here and there. Right now he's on tour but, every time I hit him up he's very responsive, very influential with my music. One time we sat down and went through my entire album, and he gave me feedback on every last one of the songs, (Continued on page 19)
BUSINESS 2nd Anniversary Celebration Buy Black Empowerment Initiative Of the Black United Front March 19, 2015 St. Mark's Child Development Center Christal Watson, host with surprise special guest, Mrs. Maggie Anderson, of the Empowerment Experiment. author of Our Black Year, which chronicles her family's one year commitment to shop only from Black-owned businesses. Maggie presented Eugene A. Mitchell of New York Life’s African-American Community Empowerment Plan. Working to close the wealth gap for future generations. Guest Speaker: Malcolm Crawford, Austin African American Business Networking Association Inc.
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(Continued from page 17)
told me what I should change and so on and so forth. I really, really appreciate that because he didn't have to do that. He fulfilled his obligation on the show which was to be my coach on the show but for him to invite me to his house, invite me to barbeques, have me around his family is more than I can ask for and I appreciate that. 12: Obviously he sees something in you. Which artists would you like to collaborate with in the future? Vedo: I would like to collaborate a lot actually but I'll give you my top five. Of course Usher, that is in the works right now. Chris Brown, Stevie Wonder, Drake-he is one of those artists that surprises you. It's like there's nothing he can't do. And I would love to collaborate with a female. I'd have to say Beyonce. I think we could really make some magic. And let me get one more: I would have to say Jazmine Sullivan. 12: You are very popular on YouTube, you have over 100,000 subscribers and 2 million views. What was your first video post? Vedo: My first video post was Sam Cooke-A Change is Gonna Come. That video got about 30 views only because I was pushing it myself, and maybe 10 likes which was pretty bad but from there I kept grinding. I went on to do covers like Stevie Wonder-Overjoyed, Bruno Mars and things like that. We eventually sat down and researched things, like the science to covers is doing something that is relevant. Sam Cooke and Stevie Wonder are amazing artists but, they weren’t relevant at the time. At the time we felt like we needed to do stuff that people are searching for, and that's when I did Beyonce-1+1 and it took off! Seven and eight thousand views, World Star Hip Hop picked it up and that's when my twitter page shot all the way up. It’s 19
all about what works. 12: What do you fear mostly about the music industry, in reference to your career? I know it's got to be a cutthroat industry. There's tons of competition out there. Vedo: Competition is the least of my worries. I think not being accepted and people thinking I'm trying to be someone I'm not. That is a fear but I think I can get past that. Sometimes people feel like they have to reinvent themselves and they end up becoming untrue to themselves. 12: Well, you are in the spotlight, you're talented, handsome, you sing to the ladies so at some point in your career people are going to want to know if you are exclusive with anyone. Vedo: I'm single right now. I don't have a girlfriend. Of course, we all have friends but if it isn't serious then it doesn't need to be mentioned. I'm single not only because I'm busy but because I haven't had anyone tell me something that I haven't already heard. A lot of people think that it's solely the man's responsibility to sweep the woman off her feet but women should sweep a man off his feet to a certain extent. 12: Any closing comments? Vedo: I will try to make everyone happy. That’s all you can do. It's my duty as an artist to make people feel good about themselves. Not only through music but through conversation. 12: Vedo, thank you for taking the time to talk to TWELVE (http://twelvekc.com). Best wishes for your future!
VedoWorld.com @vedothesinger
Jazmine Sullivan March 17, 2015 Arvest Bank Theatre At The Midland Photo: Keyana Collins
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TWELVEKC.COM
ANGELA HAGENBACH Photos by Damon Patterson At Broadway Jazz Club
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HISTORY
YEARS The Negro Leagues Baseball Museum celebrates a milestone this year. Twenty-five years of honoring The HISTORY, THE LEGACY of some of the greatest who ever played the game. By Anna Thomas-Rios | Photos by Ken Lumpkins
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t the entrance of the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, just past the Field of Legends, visitors are greeted with a verse from the Roman Catholic Bible: "My son, if you aspire to be a servant of the Lord, prepare yourself for testing, set a straight course and keep to it and do not be dismayed in the face of adversity." (Continued on page 26)
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Bob Kendrick President Negro Leagues Baseball Museum 23
Private Party
GALLERY: LADIES NIGHT
The birthplace of the Negro Leagues. In 1920, an organized league structure was formed under the guidance of Andrew “Rube” Foster—a former player, manager, and owner for the Chicago American Giants. In a meeting held at the Paseo YMCA in Kansas City, Mo., Foster and a few other Midwestern team owners joined to form the Negro National League. (NLBM) 24
Chavonte Johnson, Latesha Marshall, Brazil Merritt, Markita Allen, Alex Johnson, Adrienne Reese PHOTO: Raye Jackson TWELVEKC.COM 25
(Continued from page 22)
This sets the tone for a view into the economic, social and historic impact the Negro Leagues had on American history. The creation of the Negro Leagues is arguably an initial action of a, then, unnamed Civil Rights Movement. It is a complex and integral part of American History that began simply as a desire by a group athletes to play a game they loved but were barred from professionally. This story is passionately and remarkably preserved at the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum. In many ways, the story of the NLBM’s existence and success is reminiscent of the League’s story itself. In the late 1980s, Horace Peterson, Founder of the Black Archives of Mid-America, suggested the idea of a Negro Leagues Hall of Fame to legendary NLBM player and coach, Buck O’Neil. Mr. O’Neil insisted instead on a museum, maintaining there had already been too much separation in the sport of baseball. He quickly and insightfully recognized this as an opportunity to preserve the legacy of the Negro Leagues and their rightful place in our country’s history. The two men agreed it should be located in the Historic 18th and Vine District, right where the Negro Leagues were founded in 1920 under the leadership of Andrew “Rube” Foster.
privy to a timeline of United States history and the relevance of the Negro League’s place in it. The Museum receives about 60,000 visitors annually, houses an impressive gift shop and still relies heavily on private funding. It is tangible evidence that, as Mr. Kendrick commented, “If you dare to dream, you can do anything”. "Twenty five years is an amazing accomplishment for any business, but for one with such humble roots as the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, it is a significant milestone. It is also a testament to Buck O'Neil and countless others who never stopped believing that the legacy of the Negro Leagues deserved to play on. The 25th anniversary gives us an opportunity to tell our story and hopefully garner greater support from the funding community as we prepare for the next 25 years of operations," Kendrick said.
"... it is a significant milestone. It is also a testament to Buck O'Neil and countless others who never stopped believing that the legacy of the Negro Leagues deserved to play on.”
After gathering other Negro Leaguers and community members, an office was opened in the Historic Lincoln Building. A board and small staff were assembled, licensing of the NLBM name was initiated, and artifacts began being acquired. During those early years, the Museum was funded by the personal contributions of this group of dedicated individuals. Like the players themselves, they had a dream and a vision and were determined to see it through to fruition.
This year, the Museum will celebrate its 25th year under the leadership of Bob Kendrick, who started with the Museum as the Director of Marketing in 1998. Now in its own facility across from its roots in the Lincoln Building, the NLBM is housed in a 10,000 square foot area displaying artifacts mainly acquired on loan or donated from private memorabilia owners, and of course the players themselves. In addition to historical treasures, visitors are 26
To commemorate its’ 25th year, the NLBM invites the community to a series of celebratory events: The Hall of Game, Saturday, April 25th at the Gem Theater will honor former Major League Baseball players who played the game in the spirit and signature style of the Negro Leagues. The Class of 2015 includes: Ozzie Smith, Rickey Henderson, Fergie Jenkins and Luis Tiant. Tickets are available at NLBM.com.
The Kansas City Royals will hold its annual Salute to the Negro Leagues and the NLBM with “Dressed to the 9s” on Sunday, May 17th in a game against the New York Yankees. Both teams will wear the Negro League uniforms of the Kansas City Monarchs and New York Black Yankees, respectively. The first 10,000 fans will receive a commemorative Kansas City Monarchs Newsboy Cap. Fans are encouraged to wear their Sunday best as part of the NLBM's annual "Dressed to the 9s" Day at the K. The NLBM will host the Heart of America Hot Dog Festival, 12:00pm-10:00pm, Saturday, August 1st at the Museum. The NLBM 25th Anniversary Gala is 8pm, Saturday, November 14th, at the Gem Theater. More information can be found at www.nlbm.com and @nlbmprez on Twitter.
TWELVEKC.COM
GALLERY: LADIES NIGHT
"When the late Buck O'Neil and the late Horace Peterson started the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum in a tiny one-room office at Historic 18th & Vine in 1990, few people gave it any chance of succeeding. Here we are today, 25 years later, recognized by the United States Congress as 'America's National Negro Leagues Baseball Museum,'" said NLBM president Bob Kendrick.
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MARCH FF
The A-List Mixer Westin Crown Center (then private after party) UAN |BKEN| #12MAG 3.6.15
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GALLERY: LADIES NIGHT
Let’s Get It Started
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Model: Amilee Turner Photo: Raye Jackson
Dominican Republic Adventures By Iman Lott
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KOTTON KANDY MODELING
Chavonte Johnson, t’s finally here. The weather is warming up, grass is turning greener and you begin to noLatesha Marshall, tice flower buds peeking out from the ground. As the last traces of winterMarkita melt away Allen,and spring begins to bloom, children and parents everywhere anxiously anticipate arrival of Brazilthe Merritt, LaTesadiscussions Michelle the coveted summer vacation. Families get together and conduct roundtable Alex Johnson, in hopes of coming to an agreement on what to do and where to go. This was my family last Adrienne Reese summer. Although we are all grown men and women it had been a while PHOTO: since we’d planned Raye Jacksona family vacation (22 years to be exact). Just the five of us siblings – no friends, boyfriends, girlTWELVEKC.COM friends, relatives or pets. With hearts and minds alike we settled on the Dominican Republic or, as the locals call it, Republica Dominicana. (Continued on page 33)
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BEAUTY
Danie Hawkins Flaunt Esthetics 1624 Westport Rd Kansas City, MO 816-419-4935 www.flauntesthetics.com The spring/ summer season is on the way and don’t you want to get prepared to have that satin smooth looking skin? A good wax is the way to go! Here at Flaunt Esthetics we offer an array of services, including waxing! Waxing is a very effective form of hair removal. Rather than removing hair by shaving, waxing allows us to remove hair at the root, and it yields weeks – not days – of incredibly smooth skin. Not only does regular waxing help you maintain your sexy smooth best, it also weakens the hair follicle. This means that when hair does grow back, it grows back finer. In some cases, it prevents regrowth all together. Shaving will never be comparable to waxing. Shaving removes hair only from the surface of the skin, which means it comes back in a day or so unlike waxing, which gives you smooth skin and long lasting results. 32
Get SmooVe SATIN SMOOTH HAIR REMOVAL
TRAVEL
(Continued from page 31)
We spent 8 days and 7 nights at the Royalton, all-inclusive resort in Punta Cana which is the on the east side of the island where the sand is white, the beaches are clean, and ocean water is warm. The ride from the airport to the resort was less than 20 minutes. Upon arrival the first thing I noticed was the resort structure. There were no doors anywhere. The lobby had the warmest breeze coming in from the ocean which you could see from the front desk. “My family! Welcome!” says the concierge. We laugh. “You are my family!” He holds his arm up to mine as to compare our skin complexions. It was then I realized that we were, indeed the same color… and we were his family. The Dominican people range in all shades. Most consider themselves Afro -Dominican or Black Dominican, a term which can be defined as a Dominican of full or predominantly Black African ancestry, makes up 73% of the population. (“The world fact book” from cia.gov.) The majority of Afro-Dominicans descend from West Africans and Central Africans brought to the country throughout
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the sixteenth through nineteenth centuries as a result of slavery, while many others descend from immigrants who came from the Lesser Antilles during the 20th century. (F. James Davis “Who is black? One Nations Definition” retrieved from pbs.org. The staff quickly checked us in and we assembled our all-inclusive wrist bands as we were escorted to our suite. “Hola!” says the bag boy with an accent that sounded like a native of Alabama or Tennessee. Then again, “Hola!” from the groundskeeper, “Hola!” from the maid, “Hola!” from the waitress bringing drinks to the outdoor patrons. Why were these people so happy? It’s so uncommon to see people actually enjoying themselves as they work. ‘Hola’ (which means ‘hello’ in Spanish) became my mantra for our trip. “Hola!” when ordering room service, “Hola!” when ordering a drink, “Hola!” when asking for a beach towel.
Our vacation schedule was “rigorous”: Wake up. Yoga. Shower. Beach. Eat. Dance. Sleep. Drink. Eat. Drink. Dance. Eat. Sleep. Repeat. Every day for six days. On the seventh day my younger siblings and I went zip lining which I highly recommend only if you are in good shape because you are hiking in the mountains for hours. On the eighth day, we rested and reluctantly traveled back to our real world… a place that charges for drinks and meals (Continued on page 35)
SPORTS
TWELVEKC.COM
Jessikha Williams. from the #12MAG Work of Art Calendar. Order yours at twelvekc.com Photo: Ken Lumpkins Make-up: Kween Colston Hair: Earl Smith
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TWELVEKC.COM
DOMINICAN TRAVEL (Continued from page 33)
unlike the all-inclusive paradise we’d just lived. It was one of the best times of my 32 years on this earth and I definitely plan to return! When preparing for travel outside of the United States it is important to remember that you will be immersed in a different culture. It is wise to do a little research on the country you will be visiting: What is their belief system? What are their values? What do they eat? What is their native tongue? If you plan to visit the Dominican Republic where the office language is Spanish, to the right is a handy list of common Spanish expressions that I found helpful. The resort staff as well as the locals appreciate the attempt at embracing their native tongue:
Items to add to your travel checklist: Make sure your passport is not expired. If you don’t have one, you’ll want to apply no less than six months in advance. Check the exchange rate of the US dollar daily as it changes often. You don’t want to give your money away. Pack light. You’ll spend most of the time on the beach. Believe me, you won’t need those extra pairs of shoes or shorts. Besides, it will leave room for souvenirs which saves you the headache of trying to purchase a new bag to travel back with and carry all of them in. Lastly, have fun. Of everything you plan for, make sure you plan for that! Disfruta! (Enjoy!) 35
Some helpful phrases to know when traveling to Spanish speaking destinations: “Hola, como estas?” This simply means ‘Hi, how are you’. The Dominicans are generally big on speaking and making eye contact so embrace it. When you catch someone’s eye simply say, “Hola!” “Buenos dias. Buenos noches.” ‘Good morning. Good night’. “Dónde está el baño?” ‘Where is the bathroom?” “Necesito una toalla y toallita.” ‘I need a towel and wash cloth’. “Cual es el precio?” ‘What is the price?’ “Gracias.” ‘Thank you.’
GOSPEL OF POETS RADIO TALKSHOW Poets from the March show. Foreground: Steven Hutchinson, Sheri “Purpose” Hall Mother Mary Moore, Serenity M'Vyonne Payne
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FEATURE
W up.
e’re getting “Poetry Wasted”, Sheri Hall exclaims, on the mic at KPRT-1590. Sheri’s the host of Gospel of Poets Radio show and it’s time to tune in and listen
Local poets have various, though infrequent, platforms for live expression in Kansas City. Open mics and feature
Photo: Ken Lumpkins
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By Sheri Hall
The Gentleman Watching … Wishing… Wanting… Wa i t i n g
lusting
(Continued from page 37)
performance have both weekly and monthly exhibitions, but more opportunities are always sought—especially with the vast number of poets in the area eager to shine. Getting published, securing feature slots, and being recognized nationally are key goals of most poets. Back rooms and lounges with thirty people deep of finger snappers is cool and artistic, but reaching the masses helps accomplish these larger goals. The Music and More Foundation, led by Terance Williams, does its part as a producer of performances at arts venues across the city, boasting of a roster of proven talents called the Bold Poets. However, its radio show, the Gospel of Poets, that presents a new platform—the airwaves. Established in 2012, it’s sixty minutes of LIVE radio broadcast the second Saturday of every month to 50,000. (Continued on page 39)
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subtlety scents sensuality simplicity thoughts linger longer and longer lengthening longing for lady style/way/shape/virtue/truth honorable she is a keeper and is kept ask her to compromise NO He respects her, and hates it.
L to R. M'Vyonne Payne, Terance Williams, Mother Mary Moore, Sheri “Purpose” Hall Serenity, Steven Hutchinson,
Enter host, Sheri “Purpose” Hall.
Gary Taylor with GT Fitness, the featured business of the March Gospel of Poets radio show. Sheri Hall middle. “Serenity” background.
(Continued from page 38)
But the show is beyond poetry performance. Part inspiration, part talk show, listeners can tune in together upcoming haps, businesses to support and causes worthy of discussion and action. It takes the right personality—no character--to bring the concept to fruition. 39
Host is her role, but she couldn’t effectively serve as the show’s conductor without also being one of KC’s top poets. She is a 2012 ArtsKC awards Featured Artist and has performed at the Starlight theater, Nelson Atkins Museum of Art, the Unicorn Theater, and produced a show called "MoDézir: The Word Jones Experience" featured at the 2012 fringe festival. She is a RAW Artist, member of Counter Culture Art, a HISWILL poet, a Bold Poet, and performed for the first annual Malcolm X celebration at the Capital building in Jefferson City. She is a Jazz Poetry Jams winner, a Poetry for Personal Power featured poet and most recently a Tangled Roots Fellow, showcasing poetry and visual art work at the Jewish Community Campus and the InterUrban Art House. Catch Sheri and other poets on the Gospel of Poets a Talkshow for Poets on kprt 1590AM every second Saturday at 6pm.www.themusicandmorfoundation.com
COMMUNITY
Ken Bacchus Wants to do his part to help create a better Kansas City.
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Photo: Ken Lumpkins
BACCHUS IS BACK Former City Councilman Ken Bacchus looks to re-enter politics and claim the th District Seat to serve Kansas City’s urban core.
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n politics, you tend to find four types. There are the newcomers—corporate profession-
als that promote change; the insiders--government workers who make a transition to public office; noisemakers—those quick to cite the issues but who may be light on solutions and experience. With these first three, there’s often something lacking and the community feels like they have to settle by choosing one. However, there’s a fourth and rare find--an individual that simultaneously has the resume, energy, and interest for a political position and a collaborative nature. Ken Bacchus, candidate for the 5th District KCMO Council seat, fits this fourth description. Read his bio and you’ll start to understand. He’s a 31 year resident of the 5th District. Ken and his family came to Kansas City in 1980 to serve as the City’s Housing and Economic Development Planner under the direction of James I. Threatt, Assistant City Manager. Ken served two terms as the 5th District At-Large member of the Kansas City, Missouri City Council (1991-99). While on the council, Ken was Chairman of the Plans, Zoning, and Economic Development Committee, where his expertise in understanding dynamic urban changes were critical to city development, as major population shifts occurred during that time. In addition to zoning and strategic planning efforts, Ken assisted in negotiating many of the financing and development packages for new job growth, business retention and expansion, and community econom(Continued on page 42)
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“...You’re going to do what’s best for poor people, for AfricanAmericans, Mexicans, and others of this community.”
(Continued from page 41)
ic development policies throughout Kansas City. Ken served as Chairman of the Community Economic Development Committee of the National League of Cities and was a member of its Board of Directors. Ken also served as a Commissioner for the Redevelopment Authority and the Tax Increment Financing Commissions of Kansas City for fifteen years. Through his varied roles in housing and economic development, he’s been responsible for helping secure over 20 million dollars for the city’s development. From the Bartle Hall Expansions to the Shops on Blue Parkway, he’s been at the forefront. More impressive is the fact that beyond public office, Ken has remained an engaged activist through volunteer work. He’s involved in the Urban Summit, an organization focused on economic development, health, crime, education, young professionals and reentry. Other work has been rendered through the South KC Alliance, Southern Communities Coali-
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tion, Southeast Coalition of Neighborhoods, Blue Hills Neighborhood, and the Beta Lambda Educational Institute of Alpha Phi Alpha.
to get those jobs. That takes training from our junior colleges and universities with a focus on S.T.E.M (Science Technology Engineering and Math) fields.”
So the question comes down to: Why Ken Bacchus? Bacchus is running based Why re-enter politics? “What we’ve on community interest. He states that been missing in the last three or four supporters have said, “We don’t have to years is vision, detell you Ken Bacchus is part of the leadership of the Urban Summit, an organization focused on termination, and what to do. community action in the urban core. Pictured photos from the 3/28/15 Urban Summit. an understanding You know of public policy to what to do. affect real It’s not change”, says about you. Bacchus, as he You are speaks of the opauthentic portunities and to this challenges of the communi5th District of Kanty. You’re sas City. going to do what’s He could easily best for take his skills to poor peoanother commuple, for Afrinity. “I’m not trying canto go to the subAmericans, urbs or to ChicaMexicans, go. I’m trying to and others apply my talents of this right here.” “Right communihere” is a district of ty”. about 80,000 people in nine Bacchus unique districts adds, “I’ve and the majority, been on about 65%, are this journey Black. Their interfor a longests range from time. My managing vacant academic house and trash work and removal to more experience complex issues and applied knowledge related to this such as economic development and experience have prepared me for this crime prevention. move. A lot of uncertainty in local government requires someone that understands the complexity of public policy.” Bacchus has his eye on the future needs of Kansas City. Noting the new The primary election is April 7th and jobs coming to Kansas City from Cernthat will determine the two finalist for er, the Stowers investments and more, the June 23rd general election. Be “There are about 25,000.9 jobs coming sure to get out and vote! to the area with average salaries of Kenbacchus.com $65,000. I want people in Kansas City 43
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TWELVEKC.COM
SCENE 12MAG’s Flight Club hosted a Self Defense Class, along with Massage Amani. Techniques in particular were part of the Shin Do Ryu Karate System at Shogun Martial Arts . Instructor and Black Belt, Margie Miller, conducted the class. See tips on page 48 for some of these moves.
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Counter Attacks For Right Straight Punch or Grab
Two Hand Front Choke: (R) Palm to Wrist, (L) Palm to Wrist, Dbl Vertical punch to chest, front kick, Loud Kiah.
Rear Hair Grab: Grab both hands on top of head, back kick to knee, (L) Step back, (L) Elbow to chest, (L) Hand smack to groin, 2 hand push off
Wrist Grab: Grab thumb. Use both arms to turn wrist. Kick to ribs 48
Cross Neck Grab: Step Back Grab thumb, Move under arm, spin out and kick
See the video at twelvekc.com for BONUS Techniques
MORE MOVES Cross Shoulder Grab: Step Back (L) In-block to Arm, (L) HammerFist to Ribs (R) Reverse Punch. (R) Roundhouse kick Shoulder Grab: Step In (R) In-Block to Arm, (R) Back Knuckle to Face (R) Uppercut to sternum, (L) Kick to stomach Bent Arm Shirt Grab: (R&L) HamerFist to head (Dbl) Trusting Palm Heels Under the chin, 2-hand push, Loud Kiah!! Front Hair Grab: Step Back (R) Up-Block to wrist, (L) Reverse punch to mid section (R) Knee to ribs Kumite Step in Punch: (R) 2 Roundhouse kicks to ribs, punch ear Shogun Marital Arts Center International | 6300 W 51 St | Mission, Kansas | (913) 638-3490 | shogunmai.com 49
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INSPIRED
JOHN HOPE BRYANT
Best selling author, John Hope Bryant, delivered an inspiring keynote at the Money Smart KC kick-off event, “Grow Your Money”, March 28th at Jack Reardon Civic center. With an address on money, poverty and success, , he stated “Success is going from failure to failure without loss of enthusiasm.” Never give up. Never lose hope.
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CALENDAR
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Sat 04/11 K-A-Psi - Lift Every Voice Event type: Fundraiser Venue: Holiday Inn: 9103 E. 39th Street Kansas City MO Time: 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM Producer: The Independence Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Contact: Independence Alumni KAPSI Email: idpnupes@gmail.com Web: indkappas.com
Sat 04/18 Crimson Nights - An Evening of Entertainment & Trivia Event type: Fundraiser Venue: Grandview Elks Lodge: 13600 Arrington Rd Grandview MO Time: 7:00 PM - 12:00 PM Producer: DEED Foundation Contact: Rashanda Fuller Email: treasurer@dstkcmo.org Phone: Web: www.dstkcmo.org
Sat 04/11 Missouri Black Caucus Forum Event type: Forum - symposium Venue: Paseo Academy of Fine and Performing Arts: Paseo Academy of Fine and Performing Arts Kansas City MO Time: 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM Producer: Missouri Black Caucus Contact: THURMAN DAVIS Email: votpgyrl@yahoo.com Phone: 816 204-8399
Fri 04/24 The First Annual Men of Poetry | The Art Of Spokenword 5 Event type: Fundraiser Venue: Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, : 4525 Oak St, Kansas City, MO 64111, USA Kansas City MO Time: 6:30 PM - 9:00 PM Producer: T.L.Williams Contact: Terance Williams Email: kdpublishingdotcom@gmail.com Web: www.boldpoetsofkansascity.com
Fri 04/17 Fros & Beaus Mixer Event type: Fundraiser Venue: Artis Event Space: 3016 Cherry Kansas City MO Time: 7:00 PM - 11:00 PM Producer: That Curl Contact: V Besch Email: Veronica@thatcurl.com Phone: 52
Fri 04/24 Sticky Traps: K C Rep Event type: Play Venue: H & R Block Bldg (KC Repertory Theatre): 1 H & R Block Way (corner of 13th and Walnut) Kansas City MO Time: 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM Producer: Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority,
Inc and KC Repertory Theatre Contact: Lisa Roberson Email: lyrsgr1981@yahoo.com Phone: 913-2697913 Sat 05/09 Howard University Alumni Club Black Film Fest Event type:   Venue: The Gem Theater: 1615 E 18 th Street Kansas City MO Time: 12:00 PM - 8:00 PM Producer: Howard University Alumni Club, Ms. Kiva Gates Treasurer Contact: Ms. Kiva Gates Email: kgates03@aol.com Phone: 913-302-0505 Web: Huacblackfilmfest.eventbrite.com Sat 05/30 Chris Cakes Gospel Brunch Venue: TBD: Kansas City MO Time: 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM Producer: Delta Sigma Theta Contact: Lakesha Gordon Email: panhellenic@dstkcmo.org See the complete calendar at
kcsoul.com
Stacy Shaw, Esq.
Project Freedom Gala American Jazz Museum Sat. 3.21.15
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