For Connoisseurs & Conscious Living This magazine is called TWELVE to note it’s 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, time pieces are part of the finer things, perfect for our core readers in pursuit of sophisticated living. Welcome to TWELVE.
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Volume I, Issue IV
COVER
APRIL 2013
M’Vyonne Payne, poet
IT’S SPRING
DON’T MISS Check out pictures from our TWELVE CRAVE event and more.
TWELVE Magazine is part of the kcsoul.com network. Owned by H.G.E. Marketing, LLC.
Welcome to No. IV! It’s finally Spring in KC! Well, at least that’s what the calendar says, despite all of the unseasonal snow and cold weather. Beyond a new season, April is National Poetry Month. With that in mind, we feature KC’s poetry scene. Of course, there’s even more. Take in the wealth of information on going to college and organ donation.
INSIDE
Special thanks to those who attended CRAVE, our live event. Be sure to visit twelvekc.com for our next Twelve Play CD, recorded live at the event.
Poetry Month
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As always, we highlight the people to watch, key tips and places to go. So enjoy the features.
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Remember, this is your magazine. 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!
JIGSAW
Sincerely, ALPHA: Go to College
Pay for College
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Ken L
kcsoul.com
#TWELVEKC
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What’s Different? Read It & Experience it Live
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Shane Evans
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Donor Month
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April Calendar
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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.
Because sometimes they need it. Other times they deserve it.
CLOSER TO MY DREAMS GIFT PAGES PROVIDE:
Plan now for Spring Graduation! Establish a Gift page today for the graduating student. Enable friends and family to easily make a contribution to salute their well-deserved accomplishment. Help toward future expenses such as travel plans, a new car, or a new suit for interviews or jobs. Chances are a little extra money toward the tuition bill would be useful too! It’s FREE to start your page. Log on today.
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Real-time direct payments
Customized donation amounts
Goal meter option for tracking
Social media sharing
Email & contact invitations
Personalized gift page urls
Picture & video additions
Reporting
Specials & bonuses
Where The Nation Goes to Give
SPECIAL THANKS To all of Our Writers, Designers, Planners, Contributors, Advertisers & Supporters of TWELVE!
Ken L. W. Sarah Fletcher DJ Franklin
Join the team: Email: twelve@kcsoul.com
Diallo French Randy Hall Raye Jackson Danielle Jones Clarence Lomax Iman Lott Sherry Lumpkins LeAndrea Mack Gary Mitchell Earl Smith Erinn Stacie Krystal Tatney Michele Watley Dr. Doretha Williams India Williams Jessikha Williams Christopher White Salute To: Alpha Phi Alpha-Beta Lambda Black Archives of Mid-America Blue Symphony, LLC Club Rain CRAVE Presenters Fly Society TWELVE PLAY artists 5
Wing Busters
CRAVE Afterparty featuring art by Stefan Jones.
LOVE STARTING WITH YOURSELF W. SARAH FLETCHER 6
Spring Reflections By: W. Sarah Fletcher
Spring Cleaning. April showers, prepping May flowers. Renewing and reengaging; these are all symbolic to me of April, a new beginning, the 2nd Quarter. It’s almost as if we are given a quick moment to recharge, redirect, and reconnect. CONNECTION. I have long believed that we are all deeply connected to each other no matter where we are globally, our heritage, or our beliefs. A recent trip to beautiful Cambodia, where I actually write this, reinforced this very ideal. There is a phrase used frequently here, “same-same but different”. Everything you want, need or ask for is the same with minor differences. While here, I contemplated humanity; what is humane, by whose standards, our connection to each other and our connected purpose. My deeper discovery is that we all hold a piece of each other within us and, with that discovery, a deeper love for myself and others. In honor of poetry month, I offer some the following gift for your own nourishment and reflection.
April’s Challenge: Begin to Take A Piece for yourself and discover deeper depths of who you are, humanities treasures, and the majesty that awaits. 7
When we have talent like this, we like to clear our throat and proudly and loudly say, “Introducing Kansas City’s own…Dana Gilmore! As a professional performance poet, Dana has appeared on seasons 3 and 4 of HBO’s Def Poetry Jam where she received several standing ovations. She was blessed to have shared the Def Jam stage with artist such as Mos Def, Kanye West, and WyClef-Jean. Her work has also allowed her to open up for artist such as Anthony Hamilton. Her feature performance at Kansas City’s well-renowned Blue Room located in the historic 18th and Vine district was a sold-out show. It was her involvement in the fertile Atlanta spoken word scene where she first found a larger audience, which led to the debut of her most ambitious works, becoming wildly popular and earning her the privilege to join the elite circle of poets featured on Russell Simmons’ HBO’s Def Poetry (Season 3). There she delivered the debut national performance of her landmark work “Wife, Woman, Friend.” Both critics and fans alike were floored by the powerful combination of raw emotion, delicate phrasing and mind-bending metaphors that have become her hallmark. She cemented her popularity a year later with a return visit to Def Poetry Jam (Season 4), where again she astounded the live and television audiences with her now-signature style of poetry with the sequel, “Wife, Woman, Friend Part II”. With regular showcases at National Association of Collegiate Activities (NACA), Dana has since broadened her performance experience by annually touring America’s colleges and universities conducting feature one-woman shows that include Spoken Word, dialogue, and comedy. Expanding her involvement in arts and entertainment, Dana holds the position of Regional Agent/Performing Arts Director with Philadelphia based SMG College Booking Agency. In this position, Dana books celebrity talent such as Miguel, Kendrick Lamar, Frank Ocean, Gary Owen, Hill Harper, and Spike Lee to name a few. In her free time, she enjoys visiting group homes and shelters to facilitate Spoken Workshop, a workshop geared toward teaching youth written and performance poetry techniques to be used as an outlet for selfexpression. Dana credits none other than God for blessing her with the gift to write and perform; as well as the opportunities to passionately pursue her goals.
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Dana Gilmore HBO Def Poet
Dana, Live at the Blue Room. Kansas City, MO Photo: K.Durrell
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WORD Photo by Erinn Stacie
Earl “Anthem” Smith entertains guests at CRAVE, KC’s Poetry & Arts Extravaganza, April 5th, 2013. Black Archives.
SAY WORD ansas City is no stranger to good poetry. Maybe there are some remnants of the legend, Langston Hughes in the air. Hughes, born in Joplin, MO on February 1, 1902, spent most of his childhood in Kansas, first in Lawrence and Topeka, then in Kansas City, when his mother moved here for work. Hughes’ formidable talent would take him around the world tremendously influencing New York during the Harlem Renaissance. He’s a national treasure of poems, plays, novels and prose that have gone worldwide and way beyond his years. As we enter National Poetry Month, it’s nice to reflect on Hughes’ KC connection, but
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kcsoul.com
National Poetry Month
more important are his writings which portray the plight of the common man, especially the AfricanAmerican experience. Poetry in urban culture is just as poignant today. While books aren’t read nearly enough, ears are certainly open and accepting of the music, instruction, advice,
Angela Roux, CRAVE host.
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crave CRAVE by Twelve Magazine Photo shoot. twelvekc.com PHOTOS: Raye Jackson PROFILES: Michele Watley
CRAVE Presenters (l to r) Glenn North, Earl Smith, Jason Betts, Angela Roux, Terance Williams 11
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The Recipe – Priest and 3-3-7 The Recipe is a powerful dramatic arts in rhythm duo that fights ignorance with the fusion of dramatic interpretation and spoken word. Through the use of costumes, fully developed characters and storylines that interweave poetry and spoken word, the Recipe delivers socially conscience messages to the masses. A spoken word completion at the Blue Room brought Priest and 337 together. For over 10 years the duo has collaborated on a number of performances and provide creative writing and life skills courses in area schools, homeless shelters and prisons. www.reverbnation.com/therecipe
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compliments and even degradation at times, expressed through spoken word. The poet, and spoken word artist in particular, becomes a minister, counselor, educator and sometimes comedian. Done right, it’s one of the most sincere forms of creative expression. Why? It’s borne of experience—the experiences both realized and those only dreamed. It’s unfiltered and raw at times, so listeners beware. Usually, what you find, at least in Kansas City, is a passion – no, a hunger – to deliver the “word”. We summed up this desire with an event called CRAVE on April 5th at the Black Archives. Simply classifying CRAVE as an event doesn’t aptly describe it. First, realizing that poetry is often an extension or infusion of other art forms, we included paintings and film as part of the event. In fact, CRAVE is really an acronym, Creative Renaissance of Art and Vocal Expression, so its foundation is multi-faceted. Second, CRAVE is beyond an isolated moment. It’s a collaboration initiative which called area arts and poetry producers to work collectively to present a National Poetry Month celebration. Supporters and presenters included Terance Williams of Bold New Poets, Jason Betts of Esquire band and Poetic Notes, Glenn North of the American Jazz Museum and Jazz Poetry Jams, Angela “Roux” Roulette of Stanza Life, the new producers of Last Poet Standing, Earl “Anthem” Smith of NuWayv, the music and lyric collective; Damon Patterson of Art Saved My Life, RaShaun Garlington of Stylistic Events and Soul Sessions and our host venue, the Black Archives of MidAmerica, led by Dr. Doretha Williams. KC’s own HBO Def Poet, Dana Gilmore was also onsite to deliver a greeting.
Poets compete for the prizes at Jazz Poetry Jams.
“...we have been able to bring in some of the most highly celebrated spoken word artists in the country right now…”
Noting the CRAVE presenters, you’d be accurate to conclude that Kansas City has a fresh, robust, and diverse poetry scene. Glenn North, states, “Kansas City does have a thriving poetry scene. People from the coast think we are a cow town. But there is a lot of talent here.” North is one of KC’s leading poets and most consistent poetry presenters. Officially, he’s the Poet in Residence and Education Manager at the American Jazz Museum where he hosts a monthly poetry reading called Jazz Poetry Jams. Each month, $100 is awarded to the poet with the best Open Mic performance. The event also features national all-stars. “Under that umbrella, we have been able to bring in some of the most highly celebrated spoken word artists in the country right now: Black Ice, George Mead, Mida Del Volye, Patricia Smith, and Rodger Bonair”, says North. Artist, Stefan Jones in the Open Mic at CRAVE. 13
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Angela “Roux” Roulette Born and raised in Kansas City, MO, Mz Angela Roux has always been a fan of language. Beginning with a love for writing short stories at age eight, she did not find her poetic voice until her early 20s. She describes her poetry as a vessel for people who cannot speak for themselves providing “edu-tainment” by using poetic narrative on what it means to be a woman in today’s social climate. She has produced her own show, "Mz Angela Roux presents ESTROGEN RUSH!: A Celebration of Women's Spoken Word". Roux has collaborated with Jazz group Eddie Moore and The Outer Circle, has featured "Jazz, Poetry and The Civil Rights Movement" held at the Gem Theatre, Kansas City’s Natural Hair Care Expo, Poetic Notes, Lee Langston’s Avant-Garde and The Mis-Education of Lauryn Hill Tribute. She is a member of the KConsciousness Poetry Collective, ULIT 101, BOLD.NEW.POETS and has performed at some of Kansas City’s premiere poetry venues.
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DOWNLOAD Twelve Play: CRAVE To listen to this poem performed LIVE.
www.twelvekc.com 17
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Glenn North Glenn North is currently serving as the Poet-inResidence of the American Jazz Museum while pursuing an MFA at the University of Missouri – Kansas City. He is a Cave Canem fellow, a Callaloo creative writing fellow and a recent recipient of the Charlotte Street Generative Performing Artist award. His ekphrastic poetry has been exhibited in several art exhibitions including The Color of Jazz, Reflections of Jazz, and Ella Fitzgerald: The First Lady of Song. As a spoken word artist, Glenn has shared the stage with many legendary African American poets including Amiri Baraka, Nikki Giovanni, and Sonia Sanchez. His work has appeared or is forthcoming in The
Kansas City Star, One Shot Deal, The Sixth Surface, Caper Literary Journal, Platte Valley Review, Cave Canem Anthology XII and The African American Review.
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Sound Off
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Building Kansas City’s poetry scene is the goal. However, that doesn’t necessarily mean we need twenty poetry outlets or venues. Sometimes the appropriate action is to work together. “We are in our own little pockets. It would be good if we had some synergy and connectivity, and I think we are doing that with this TWELVE magazine event. It is definitely a step in the right direction”, North opines. Though Glenn has been fortunate to receive his share of credits and feature slots, his aim is to support the Kansas City scene by providing the outlets but also helping artists realize this is a field that opens up opportunities, if it’s nurtured. “I really want the spoken word community in Kansas City to grow and evolve and for poets to understand that you have to take yourself seriously. You have to read what other poets are doing. You have to study your craft. I understand how important it is to study your craft. When you go to different venues you can tell that the people who are performing or sharing their poems have not done that. When you study and know, it shows. It is more than looking a re-runs of Def Poetry Jam or looking at YouTube. There is no way around it. If you want to write good poetry, you have to read good poetry. “ Taking his role as an educator seriously, North states “I do poetry writing and performance workshops for
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“It is more than looking a re-runs of Def Poetry Jam or looking at YouTube. There is no way around it. If you want to write good poetry, you have to read good poetry.”
young people. I was just asked to host a two-week workshop at Holiday Monastery for third-graders to help them understand how to interpret poetry to help them prepare for the MAPP test. I also coach Kansas City’s youth poetry slam team, a team that competes nationally each year at an international youth poetry festival called Brave New Voices.” In addition to Glenn’s monthly poetry event, poetry and other live entertainment events are available weekly, and sometimes daily in Kansas City. You can catch Poetic Notes every Sunday at Club 700 with host, Jason Betts of Esquire Band. Another popular weekly stop is Soul Sessions at the Juke House. It carries a popular tagline “Where Mondays are Cooler than the Weekend”. Quintin Randle, a.k.a. DJ Q, is the resident DJ and one of the presenters, along with founder, Simeon Taylor and it’s supported by RaShaun Garlington. DJ Q, explains that Soul Sessions is unique because of its components. “It’s the total variety. The live band, DJ set, the variety in talent and intimate atmosphere.” The talent is such an attraction that the event creates its own momentum, even engaging followers live, providing the play-by-play through social networks like Twitter. DJ Q notes that national performers also enjoy Soul Sessions. “Traveling musicians like Kevin Sandbloom (Continued on page 53)
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Terance Williams Kansas City native Terance Williams is the cofounder of Kneedeep Publishing LLC with Gary Staten (2000). He’s also the founder of The Music & More Foundation in 2011, which is a division of The Greater Kansas City Community Foundation. It is organized to support public access radio, the performing arts and music organizations, enabling musicians and performing artists to prosper while turning their love for music and poetry into a career. Bold.New.Poets is an alliance of poets, supported by the Music and More Foundation. It started with 12 poets in the group and has grown to over 50 poets within the year 2011. In October 2012, Bold New Poets joined the world of radio with a live broadcast on KGGN 890AM. It broadcasts every fourth Saturday at 4pm. The Gospel of Poets is powered by Bold New Poets and Hosted by Desiree Rodgers. www.themusicandmorefoundation.org
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Get On The Bus
ALPHAS Prepare Students for College! During a rough economy with the high jobless rate, the question is more pressing now than ever: is a college degree worth it? The answer, per the Labor Department and US Census says that, as a group, those with a college degree fare better than those without one. Even when the choice job isn’t obtained, it’s the more educated who have a better chance of recovery from job loss and the opportunity to make more money.
This year, students visited Fisk University, Tennessee State University, Meharry Medical College, Vanderbilt University, Clark Atlanta University, Spelman College, Morehouse College, Morehouse College, Tuskegee University and Oakwood University.
Lawrence, KS; Manhattan, KS; Topeka, KS; Richmond, VA; Denver, CO; Bloomington, IN; and St. Louis, MO.”
According to Brookings Institution researcher, Jonathan Rothwell, “Over-educated workers (college-degree holders) earn 37% more than under-educated workers in the same field, and nearly always have lower unemployment rates.” These findings are consistent with media reports from USA Today, and CNN Money.
The tours, which are coordinated through college admissions offices, provide the students with an up close look at each campus they visit. Every year the high school seniors apply for admission to all colleges visited. Students are interviewed and applications are reviewed while visiting the schools. Students eat lunch on campus, visit athletic departments, and compete for activity scholarships in band, dance, debate, and other activities. In most cases students receive acceptance on the spot, and often also receive scholarship offers. In the past two years, college tour students have earned more than $400,000 in academic, activity and athletic scholarships. For next year’s tour, email: Alphas prepare 38 Students for the 2013 Tour
So how do you get your student to college? Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. has worked to address this through one of its national Programs, “Go to High School. Go to College”, providing information, scholarships and access to college resources for high school students. Locally, the Beta Lambda chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha has created unique programs to do its part grooming KC’s next generation of leaders.
One laudable and signature event is the annual, Spring College Tour. For sixteen years the Beta Lambda Educational Institute, a registered 501c 3 organization, in partnership with the Beta Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc., has sponsored nearly 1,000 area high school students for its annual week-long spring college tour. The tour offers a unique opportunity to increase the awareness and benefits of attending historically black colleges and universities (HBCU) for Kansas City area high school students, many of whom may be economically disadvantaged. The tour is open to high school students throughout the Kansas City Metro in grades 10-12. According to tour director, George Ramsey, “ In past years we had students join the tour from as far away as 24
blei.collegetour@gmail.com. New this year to Beta Lambda’s college initiatives is the Debonair Affair, a youth development and scholarship event. Realizing it’s important to start saving for college early, this event offers boys, 7-12 years of age an opportunity to raise money while receiving guidance and mentorship to become strong male leaders. Plenty of fun and pageantry are part of the event. Parents can contact: debonairball@gmail.com for an application for their boys. Registration fees are associated with these programs, so parents are encouraged to plan and secure details early. In addition, to help raise money for fees or general college savings, parents can also use CentralGiving.com to request support and raise money from family and friends.
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Young Kings of Comedy 3.8.13. The Midland. Featuring Tony Rock, Michael Blackson, Alex Thomas, Bobby J. kcsoul.com
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College and Your Wallet By Albert Okagbue
T
o pay for college, you need to avoid expensive schools, and recognize hidden college costs.
We’ve all heard it before. Colleges have scholarships and grants available for those that qualify. That’s true, but there just aren’t enough to go around. We know this because about 65.6% of graduates have student loans of $23,000 each. Scholarships are for exceptional students or student-athletes, and many of them do not renew. Grants are available for low-income people, but after students begin working on campus they can become ineligible for most of them. So what can you do? First, avoid expensive schools with no added value. Generally, undergrads should attend the school closest to home. It should be a public school, and have the word “university” in its name. If possible, choose a school in a major metropolitan area as well. These schools are usually the cheapest, and your student loans will only be worth a Toyota Camry or Ford Taurus. I would also avoid the dorms after your freshman year. They are typically expensive, and don’t add all that much to your education. A cheaper school is easier to fund with grants, scholarships, loans, and your parents’ paycheck. Secondly, recognize the hidden costs of college. Costs like travel home, cars, car insurance, rent, living expenses, and so on add up very quickly. Of course, they are less when the school is close to home – but you should still watch out for them and budget meticulously. The “college lifestyle” appears 27
to be frugal, but iPods, iPads, and $300 cell phones do not belong in the hands of college students. I know this is shocking, but if your parents do not drive topof-the-line cars, and live in the most expensive neighborhood in town, you should avoid luxury products. I was fortunate to attend the University of MissouriKansas City on a full academic scholarship. It is [still] an excellent educational value, and even though I paid for dorms and other things with loans, the debt wasn’t crippling. I went on to graduate school at the University of Texas-Austin, where I paid out-of-state tuition and living expenses with loans. Attending an affordable school in the beginning, positioned me to aim for the best graduate school, which was my goal. It might allow you to take a job abroad, or work for a non-profit. Maybe you’ll even start a business. Please remember to keep it simple. A Public University in your state is all you need for undergrad. While you are there, don’t buy all the cool gadgets with loans or money from part-time jobs. Albert Okagbue is a Certified Public Accountant with a passion for helping people make great financial decisions. He specializes in helping young adults manage college expenses, pay off student loans, and strategically increase long-term earning potential. Read his blog at www.studentloancpa.com or follow him on Twitter @Studentloancpa.
Don’t Wake Me. I’m Dreamin’. Shane Evans, inside Dream Studio. Guitar in hand, eyes closed. I bet he’s dreaming.
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Read It. Wear It. Dream It.
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magazine
JaiWill behind the scenes at the March, TWELVE Magazine photo shoot at the Pop-Up Art Gallery, KCMO.
By Iman Lott When you first walk in you almost want to tiptoe around so as not to disturb the ambiance which is Dream Studios. Hanging on the walls are photos and portraits that depict scenes of destinations from what appear to be a well traveled man. I notice a guitar and a microphone on a small stage in almost the center of the room. The smell of incense burning combined with the abstract and abundant art gives me a distinct and profound sensation that I’ve entered another world…a dream. Awakened abruptly, Weezer, Shane’s 9 year old Jack Russell Terrier, greets me. I shiver. “This building is challenging to heat. I have a space heater in the back. I’ll bring it up. Would you like some hot tea?” Shane says. “Can you make it sweet?” I ask. My love of anything sugary is made apparent. With a smile “I got you.” He says. After a few moments Shane returns with Chai tea and homemade sweet biscuits, something you wouldn’t expect an award winning author 31
and illustrator whose work has been featured in the media such as The Oprah Winfrey Show, The Today Show, and my favorite, Reading Rainbow, to do. We sit down and I am immediately drawn in to Mr. Evans’ atmosphere. Born in Oakland to an Italian American mother and an African American father and raised in upstate New York, Shane Evans knew from an early age that he wanted to be an artist. Starting out in Buffalo then relocating to Rochester, he’s been fully immersed in two ends of the cultural spectrum moving from a predominantly white neighborhood to a predominantly black one. “I believe that at an early age I learned what it is to be human. There is always something inside that is calling and I believe it’s easier to hear when you are small. Probably between three to five years old I recognized I had these tools in my hand that would allow me to say what’s on my mind.” Through encouragement of family Shane began (Continued on page 33)
LOVE HUDSON & JANE Velvet Blazer, Pants, Shirts, and Pocket Square. BANANA REPUBLIC Boots HALLS Pin
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to pursue being an artist. He attended Visual and Performing arts schools. “The first school I went to was small. It went all the way up to the 12th grade. The good thing about that perspective was I was able to see the thing that I was doing, that I wanted to do, grow. I was able to see growth. So that was encouraging and nurturing.” It was during this time in high school that Evans met one of his best friends, with whom he would attend college. Actor and singer Taye Diggs, best known for his work on the stage in “Rent”, the film “How Stella Got her Groove Back” and more recently the television series “Private Practice”, would eventually become Evans’ busi-
“He knew what I wanted to be and I knew what he wanted to be. We both wanted to be good stewards of the gifts we’d been given by God.” While in college Shane was inspired by racially stimulated events to construct an art piece entitled “Blackness”. It was designed to bring awareness to what it was like to be black inside of the world of college and he encouraged Diggs to be a part of it. “I did a photo shoot. There’s this photo of him, not many people have it. But in the photo he’s butt naked wearing one black sock, holding up a fist and his head is kind of cocked to the side. “ Accompanying the photo is a short poem written by Diggs on his first racial experience as a child and how he was taught to take the thing that he was ashamed of and use it as a source of strength. “It talked about what he went
The Chocolate Me “Dynamic Duo”, actor, Taye Diggs and artist, Shane Evans
ness partner as well. “You gain family as you extend your arms out in giving and receiving. Taye is family. He’s my brother.” Evans and Diggs attended Syracuse University School of Visual and Performing Arts where they would help identify, even further each other’s destiny.
through and how his mother was able to charge him with the energy to get through the situation again.” This story eventually evolved into
“Chocolate me” one of many successfully published children’s books illustrated by Shane. “I was going through some of my things later in life and came across the poem. I reached out to Taye and was like, remember that poem you wrote? I think it would make a great children’s book. He told me ’let’s do it’. I originally sent this idea out in 2001-2002.” He shakes his head in disbelief, “Nobody bought it.” (Continued on page 45)
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Randi McCreary Poet, Writer and Educator A native of Kansas City, MO, Randi’s work has been featured in Black Praxis Second Edition, The NoMoreSilentCries Anthology, Present Magazine, Riseup Magazine, and two issues of Essence Magazine, including the Presidential Inauguration Collector's Edition. Randi is the author of Sweet.Water.Horizion, a chapter book of poetry that is currently at Barnes & Noble. She is a two time spoken word feature with The Blue Room and is a previous contest winner of both the Underground Poet's Society and Def Poetry Jam Website Poetry Contests. She is also a co-founder of Urban Literation. Randi is now completing her second book of poetry. twelvekc.com 34
Purchase Sweet.Water.Horizion at Barnes & Nobles Bookstores
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Celebrating National Poetry Month at the Black Archives of Mid-America
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‘Cause Women Love A Well-dressed man!
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SAVING LIVES
By Danielle Jones
National Donate Life Month
This April marks the 10th Anniversary of what began in 2003 as a weeklong celebration to bring awareness to those who have received or continue to wait for a lifesaving transplant. Currently, more than 115,000 people in the United States are awaiting the donation of vital organs and tissues. Of those, nearly 30% are African American. Minorities disproportionately make up more than half of all patients waiting on transplant lists around the country primarily because of rising rates of high blood pressure, diabetes and other chronic diseases in our communities leading to the need for transplants to replace damaged organs. While candidates for donation can be matched with donors from a different racial or ethnic background, increasing the number of minority donors means shorter waiting periods for transplantation and an increased transplantation success rate. Low minority participation in organ donation is often due to misconceptions, myths and religious beliefs. Here are the facts. Fact: Matching a donor to a candidate takes into consideration numerous factors, such as the severity of illness, blood type, time spent waiting, geographical location and other important medical details. A person’s celebrity or financial status is never a factor. Fact: Most major religions in the United States support organ donation and consider donation as the final act of love and generosity toward others. Fact: If you are sick or injured and admitted to a hospital, the number one priority is to save your life. Your decision regarding organ donation is never taken into consideration when determining lifesaving care. Fact: An open casket funeral is usually possible for organ, eye, and tissue donors. Through the entire donation process, the body is treated with care, respect, and dignity. 39
Fact: Federal law prohibits buying and selling organs in the U.S. Violators are punishable by prison sentences and fines. Fact: Anyone, regardless of age or medical history, can sign up to be a donor. The transplant team will determine at an individual's time of death whether donation is possible. Becoming a donor is as simple as signing up in your state’s donor registry. It’s also important to share with your family, friends, physician and faith leader your decision regarding donation. Advance directions, wills and living wills can also be a way of communicating your desire to be a donor. One donor can save up to 8 lives. To learn more, visit donatelife.net or you can contact the Midwest Transplant Network at 913-262-1668 to learn about registration and events in your state.
magazine
NuWayv Order Nuwayv is a music based movement founded by lyricist/songwriter Terrence Reveles (khajewel) in 2009. The goal of this movement is to provide an alternative sound in a city that he believes musical fortitude and creative integrity are in need of reconstruction. Under the umbrella of Nuwayv lies "Nuwayv Order", a musical formation of exceptional artists from the Kansas City area. Members include a female MC/lyricist by the name of Storm. Also included are lyricists and song writers, A.N.T.H.E.M, khajewel, and Eveready who is a distinguished R &B soul singer. This unified formation embodies the elements of Water, Earth, Fire, and Air. Facebook: Nuwayv the Movement
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Just a snapshot of events from the nonprofit calendar. For complete listings, visit kcsoul.com
Malcolm X
Add your upcoming events and more to kcsoul.com. Just create a login or use your Facebook log-in. Sat 04/20 Color Me Healthy Comm Health Fair Time: 9:00 AM-1:00 PM Location:Juniper Gardens Comm Ctr 1980 N. 2nd Street KCK 66101 Community Health Fair Producer: AEZ Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Contact: kckzetas zphibkck Phone: 9132790956 Email: zphibkck@yahoo.com Sat 04/20 An Evening of Distinction: Harlem Nights Event type: Fundraiser Venue: KCI Marriott Hotel: KCMO Time: 7:00 PM - 1:00 AM Producer: The Leavenworth Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Contact: DST LAC Email: dstlvksslumnae@aol.com Phone: Sat 04/27 SAH Scholarship Event Event type: Community Action Venue: TBA: Kansas City MO Time: 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM Producer: Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, 42
Inc.- Xi Tau Omega Chapter Contact: Jamie Braden Email: jamie_braden1@hotmail.com Sat 05/04 Blue Revue Event type: Fundraiser Venue: Ararat Shrine Temple: 5100 Ararat Dr. Kansas City MO Time: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM Producer: Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. Upsilon Zeta Zeta Chapter Contact: Porsche Smith Email: porsche.smith2@gmail.com Phone: Web: https://sites.google.com/site/ zphibyzzchapter/ Sat 05/18 Zeta Phi Beta AEZ Youth Auxiliary Pancake Breakfast Event type: Fundraiser Venue: Applebee\'s Restaurant: 11000 Metcalf Ave Overland Park KS Time: 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM Producer: Zeta Phi Beta | AEZ Chapter Contact: Lara Sodon Email: zphibkck@yahoo.com Phone: 913-7320192
Sat 05/18 KCKS Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. 2013 Jabberwock Pageant Event type: Fundraiser Venue: Ritz Charles: 9000 W. 137th Street Overland Park KS Time: 7:00 PM - 9:30 PM Producer: Kansas City KS Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Contact: KCKS Deltas Email: kcksdeltas@gmail.com Web: www.KCKSDeltas.org Mon 05/27 Memorial Wine Down Event type: Fundraiser Venue: Qudos Cigar & Cognac Bar: 1116 Grand Kansas City MO Time: 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM Producer: Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Xi Tau Omega Chapter Contact: akaxi tauomega Email: aka.xtochapter@gmail.com Phone: Web: www.facebook.com/ xitauomegachapter
kcsoul.com KCs Urban Source. Add Your Events!
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M'Vyonne Payne M'Vyonne Payne has altered the consciousness of, captivated and enthralled audiences from Kansas City to New York City. In only two years time, she has become a 4-time Jazz Poetry Jams slam champion. She has been featured at notable open mics such as: Soul Sessions, Poetic Notes, The Main Eventkc and Avant Garde. She has performed at numerous upscale venues including: The Westport Coffee House, Dream Studio, The Blue Room, The Screenland Theater, The American Jazz Museum, The Unicorn Theater, The Nelson Atkins Museum, The Black Archives of Mid-America, The Gem Theatre, Mike Geffner Presents The Inspired Word, and The Lincoln Center. She was also a keynote speaker at Kansas City's Trayvon Martin Hoodie March for Solidarity - Stop the Violence Rally. Currently she is the first-lady of the up and coming, poetry collective Center'd. twitter.com/SoundsLikeEnvy www.facebook.com/mvyonne.payne
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In 2007 Shane says divine intervention became the force behind him trying again.“The Lord said ‘Sit down. I got something to show you.’ He put the pen in my hand and I just started drawing. Once it was finished I said ‘Agent, here you go’. The book was published in 2011. “The Lord drives my Finally the right ambition. In the person saw it. end, I’m on a pursuit The right perof being a better son got it.”
human being
Evans has conceptualized and illustrated numerous children’s books like the award winning “Underground” written about the Underground Railroad and the life-and-death journeys to freedom.” He has received ample praise within the chilFrom commercial brands, dren’s literary to celebrity homes, field for his chances are, you’ve seen his work, or work on other even own some. books such as "Osceola," "The Way the Door Closes," "Shaq and the Beanstalk" and "Take It To The Hoop Magic Johnson." He was honored by First Lady Laura Bush at the 2002 National Book Festival. He earned The Boston Globe-Horn Book Award and The Orbis Pictus Award for Outstanding Non-Fiction for Children.
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When asked why children’s books, Evans had this to offer, “I’ll never forget it. I was in West Africa the first time I heard the Lord’s voice. He said to me ‘This is my land and these are my children.’ And I realized that’s where it starts, with children. “
This is made evident in “Olu’s Dream” a signature book in Evans’ collection that teaches children how to express their individuality all while perusing their dreams. “Olu’s Dream” is the culmination of more than ten years of work and is the first in a seven book series. It’s a wonderful example of how we need to encourage our children to follow their dreams. I feel that if you don’t inspire a dream to move forward, the dream dies. The person’s spirit then dies with the dream. Then my spirit dies as well.” Shane’s talent does not stop at illustration and children’s books. A musician and designer, his work includes unique hand crafted furniture pieces, clothing, CD cover art, photography and a number of other custom made items.
It’s a multi-media movement. Dreamin’ online.
In the industry of illustration, and creative development, Shane W. Evans is a multi-talented artist and visionary whose determination is motivated by God.
“The Lord drives my ambition. In the end, I’m on a pursuit of being a better human being and that’s what I’m trying to convey to my community. My heart has always been about my community.” After basking in wholehearted hospitality combined with the sweet gratifying spirit of Mr. Evans, I left Dream Studios very aware of the dream. Time to wake up….
magazine
RaShaun Garlington, "Soul Sistah" RaShaun was born and raised in Kansas City, MO is no stranger to the Event Planning industry and has been selftaught, with over 15 years of experience. Always with a niche for planning and coordinating, RaShaun was always involved with committees and organizations in her community, planning events for high school, church, friends, and family. After finally giving in to her true passion, and committing to provide event artistry that exceeded expectations, Stylistic Events was birthed in September of 2010. RaShaun's distinctive and eccentric style for planning, brings the art of creativity and personalization to each of her events. She is structurally organized and adds special attention to details, styling each event uniquely. RaShaun is passionate about her craft and dedicated to providing quality service to all her clients. On the poetry scene, she’s part of Soul Sessions, assisting with social networking, sponsors, vendors, acts, door host and coordinating. RaShaun also provides artist management to some of Kansas City’s best talent. LeShea Wright, singer/ songwriter, Mark ‘MarksMyBarber’ Mulmore, barber/ host/actor/comedian, and Simeon Taylor, poet/host/event facilitator. Follow @SEPlanner
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Jason & Angeline Betts Jason is the founder of POETIC NOTES & ESQUIRE BAND POETIC NOTES is the musical and lyrical outlet for all poets, singers, musicians or someone who just loves the art. It is an atmosphere where you can openly express yourself without judgment. Poets and a musical guest grace the “living room� at Club 7 Hundred (700 S.W. Blvd KCMO) on Sundays from 8 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. every week. While you enjoy the ear candy of the poets & singers you can treat yourself to some eye candy as well. POETIC NOTES showcases local artists including painters, photographers, body models and digital artists, and there is always something new from month to month. www.facebook.comTeamEsquire twitter.com/PoeticNotesKC twitter.com/JasonBettsEsq instagram: PoeticnotesKC 48
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Sheri "Purpose" Hall Sheri "Purpose" Hall 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 the founder of Spoken Purpose Ministries – offering services ranging from poetry to mentoring and event planning; she released a CD of Spoken Word poetry entitled “D’lilahs Deliverance: The Makeover”; and also started a ministry within the church she attends (Temple of Truth in Kansas City, Missouri) called V.E.R.V.E. which serves the church by providing an outlet for emotions and experiences and allowing the members to express themselves through their own modes of artistry. Purpose has been featured as a TEDx speaker, is a featured poet for Poetry for Personal Power, is a Bold.New.Poets, and a mentor to youth through several different organizations including the Bold.Young Poets. www.facebook.com/Purposespoken www.facebook.com/spokenpurpose www.spokenpurpose.com/ 50
Makeover TIPS Natural Hair Hair accessories are the new HIT. They look awesome and protect your hair at the SAME TIME. Try beanies, skull caps, scarves etc. Be careful with the materials you choose, cotton is a No No, but silk is highly recommended. Knappy Rootz Beauty Salon LLC 1734 E.63rd Street Suite 206A Kansas City Mo,64110 816-361-HAIR
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BUY GUIDE SEE MORE BLACK BIZ LISTINGS at kcsoul.com Purchase a listing: twelve@kcsoul.com
Christopher M. White Meddrin, Inc Fashion Styling/Image Consulting 816.529.1531 meddrininc@yahoo.com Dr. Doretha K. Williams, Executive Director The Black Archives of Mid-America African-American Cultural Center & Research Facility 1722 E. 17th Terrace Kansas City, MO 64108 816. 221.1600 doretha.blackarchives@gmail.com www.blackarchives.org Jessikha Williams Photographer iconjaiwill@gmail.com 816.589.8491 LB Customs Artist Facebook: L B Customs Kween Colston Fashion Stylist, Model, Designer Kween.Co.bookings@gmail.com www.facebook.com/KweenColston Twitter: @est_Kween Instagram: @est_kween Raye Jackson Photographer 816.916.4711 Jayerax47@yahoo.com
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Sherry Lumpkins Blue Symphony, LLC Web & Software Design, IT Consultant 520 W. 103rd St. #176 Kansas City, MO 64114 816.260.8385 sherry@blueysymphony.com www.bluesymphony.com Stefan Jones Artist sajarts.com W. Sarah Fletcher Greatness Realized Professional Coach, Speaker and Development Specialist success@greatnessrealized.com www.greatnessrealized.com 913.890.3402 Facebook: Greatness Realized SECURE an Ad or listing in the MAY Success Guide Today. Email: twelve@kcsoul.com
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love performing and the reception they get from our audience. Up-andcoming performers and established ones alike, find a place at Soul Sessions. “Elle Varner performed and I convinced her to change her format from more of a track performance to the live band. She was surprised at how receptive Kansas City was to live band performance.”
Just a snapshot of Kansas City’s poetry scene. Jazz Poetry Jams. 50 Verbs of Grey. Soul Sessions.
For all venues across the city, what’s most impressive is the caliber of talent. When asked how KC’s talent compares, DJ Q notes that, “Our quality of talent is the same as other cities. After all, those cities are melting pots of talent from other cities too.” Is there a place for budding artists and first timers? Sure. In these intimate venues artists in various stages of development are comfortable performing. At the same time, they’re motivated to hone their craft because they know that they will share the stage with serious talent every week. Presenting some of KC’s best was a key component of CRAVE on April 5. The event hosted some of the copresenters’ favorite and most inspiring artists. We also featured a Kansas City first—poetry was performed in a segment called Jigsaw, where four poets brought original poems (jigsaw pieces) to create one unified poem LIVE. This was especially unique since the poets didn’t collaborate or rehearse in advance. As another a special presentation, poets and musicians were recorded and will be featured in the next CD series from TWELVE Magazine, called TWELVE Play: CRAVE on twelvekc.com. For those who crave the performance, as a presenter or spectator, thank you for joining the celebration of poetry. In the end, our cravings were satiated by some our finest talent and the pride in saying, “Kansas City’s Own”!
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Don’t Miss hearing some of KC’s Best. TWELVE Play CD series. Get your copy at: Twelvekc.com
EMPIRE. Jay-Z tribute show. FMill and Erinn Stacie. Riot Room. 3.9.13
100 Black Men of KC and Shift 58. Fogo de Chao. 3.22.13
Who’s Who in Black KC. Bruce Watkins Cultural Heritage Center. 3.26.13
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