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 I, Issue VIII
COVER
AUGUST 2013
Nina Badd, model
THE LOOK OF SUMMER
DON’T MISS Visit KCSoul.com for the Summer Guide
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
School Uniforms
MO Classic
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Welcome to No. VII! It’s still summer! Yes, I know it’s also Back to School season, so you automatically think of Fall. However, there’s more “play” left in the summer season. In this issue, we provide a range of content from Back to School tips to our SWIM section featuring the look of summer, with insights on how area residents, who are in shape, stay fit. We’ve got much more in store for you. After all, this isn’t just a magazine. It’s a movement! As always, we highlight the people to watch, key tips and places to go. So enjoy the features. 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! Sincerely,
LaToya Rivers
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Ken L kcsoul.com
DAG3 Comedy
@TWELVEKC
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What’s Different? Read It & Experience it Live
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After Trayvon
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Joey Cuts
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SWIM
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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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SPECIAL THANKS To all of Our Writers, Designers, Planners, Contributors, Advertisers & Supporters of Xii.
Ken L. Ian Anderson Shemeka Cockrem
Join the team: Email: twelve@kcsoul.com
Kween Colston W. Sarah Fletcher DJ Franklin Rhenate Hodges Raye Jackson Danielle Jones Clarence Lomax Iman Lott Sherry Lumpkins LeAndrea Mack Randi McCreary Carlanda McKinney Gary Mitchell Casie Murff Jermaine Reed Miko Richardson Earl Smith Michele Watley Jessikha Williams Christopher White
twelve@kcsoul.com
SWIM THANKS:
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A.N.D. Model Mgt.
Kill Swim
Other Models
Benjamin McReynolds
Brittany Jones
James Miller
Calvin Meeks
Alia McGee
Tara Russell
Daszanice Martin
Lauren Thomas
Aarrika Davenport
Nina Badd
Angela Davenport
Stephanie Clark
Fifty Shades of Grape Grape Gathering 9 Hook Gallery & Framing Saturday, July 20, 2013
The classy wine social featuring networking, art, tasty cuisine, and wine samples from around the world.
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Be Unique By LeAndrea Mack
Grade School to High School, you can still create some “personality”...even with uniforms.
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Girls n grade school, children and teens thrive on identity. For the most part, it’s all they can control.
Uniforms are ultimately a great thing but helping your child find his or her own individuality can get a bit challenging, especially with the long list of dress code do's and don’ts that students must abide by. Nevertheless, there are still some things you can do to help your students express themselves, even in the relentless confines of their school's dress code.
Boys Ties (not clip on), tie clasp and chains, cuff links, and handkerchiefs are all great additions to a young man's uniform. It gives them a distinguished look while preparing them for the corporate or entrepreneurial career they may one day pursue. Fun additions like briefcases, pocket pens, and suspenders can give your student a huge sense of individuality. Again, these suggestions may seem dorky or irrelevant to parents but to kids, even the most diminutive things can bring personal confidence. And teaching young men, as early as 8 years old, how to tie their own ties or shine their own shoes can double as valuable life lessons that will stick with them.
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Most uniforms consist of white and khaki. Red is a complimentary color suggestion that will not clash with these colors. Adding something as simple as a red bow or barrettes can give a very classy look to even the plainest uniform. Jewelry is probably one of the biggest advantages girls have. The ability to add earrings, necklaces, bracelets or other unique pieces of jewelry could be the single most important thing that sets your child’s ensemble apart. For example: A butterfly medallion or pair of frog earrings can speak to your student’s passion for nature, or a charm bracelet with dangling tiaras and storybooks charms can display their interest in fairytales.
Girls and Boys Switch out plain black or white shoe strings for bright colors or unique pattern designs. Add statement-filled key chains to backpacks and belt loops, and experiment with different styles and cut of pants including boot cut, skinny, and flared leg pants. Check your child’s school uniform policy before outfitting them with any of these accessories and involve your child in his or her daily wardrobe selections as a way to aid in building a sense of responsibility, selfsufficiency, and self-confidence. Twelve Magazine would like to wish parents and students much success for the school year ahead!
UFFKC
Lee Langston
One of KC’s Top Voices
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LaToya Rivers 12
K
ansas City's own LaToya Rivers embodies the characteristics of what it takes to be a powerful force in the beauty industry. Her love of natural hair and passion for educating others about maintaining the health of their hair has elevated her in her chosen profession. During her 18 year journey as a licensed cosmetologist, Rivers owned a thriving salon which she sold to become a full time mommy. Following a sabbatical to focus on building a strong foundation for her children, Rivers responded to the many calls of those seeking her expertise in natural hair maintenance, and returned to the industry. Thus, founding Espresso Culture in 2009 and subsequently launching the first annual Kansas City Natural Hair Expo in 2012. The recent second annual expo again showcased the beauty, style, and elegance of natural hair. Ever-evolving, Rivers recently expanded her repertoire to include EsCu Models and Development Group.
Xii~What is Espresso Culture? LR~Espresso Culture is my business. It is my brand. I believe that I can use natural hair as an expression of hair and art. The logo is hair, art, fashion. I love hair. I don't ever want to get away from hair. I will forever have my license! I also started to get into another aspect, which is fashion. These two things that I love gave me a new love for art. I try to encompass those three things into Espresso Culture.
Xii~ What motivated you to create the Natural Hair Expo? LR~ I would go to shows and expos in Chicago and Atlanta and different places like that. I started seeing more ways of how the women were wearing their hair, and I was like, wait a minute, this isn't in our city. What's going on? I wanted to bring it back to my city. Every time I would go away and go to a show I would be like, man I wish we could have something like that in KC. I kept going to the shows and in doing so, I met a lot of the vendors and show producers. I would ask, “Why don't you guys want to come to Kansas city?” They felt like there was no reason for them to come here. I said, “What do you mean? We have talented people. I'm a salon owner. We can do a show in Kansas City.” So basically, one of the huge people at the expos told me, “If you have a platform, if you create an event we will come.” I came back, I talked to hair stylists and my clients just to hear what they 13
thought. They were for it, but when it came to trying to plan, they didn't have time. They wanted to see it, but it was too much to plan. That discouraged me. I was like, if this is something that I really want, I have to do it myself. I will have to be the one to take the step, the initiative. It was a vision that came to me five years ago when I had a smaller show, my very first show. I had a really nice turnout. It proved to me that this is something that I could do. I started putting the wheels in motion. It took 2 years to plan it out. 2012 was Kansas City's first Annual Natural Hair show.
Xii~ What was your biggest fear? LR~ My biggest fear was that no one was going to show up. The show was a chance, a leap of faith. God basically told me, “You take the first two steps, I'm there, I'm behind you.” I did and I was pleasantly surprised at the turn out. More people showed than we prepared for.
“ I want to be remembered for helping others reach their dreams.”
Xii~ How did you feel when you saw the turnout?
LR~ I felt like a proud mother. I was in awe. It really worked. I did it! I felt like it could only get better from here. I felt like I could overcome anything.
Xii~ What do you want to be remembered most for? LR~ I want to leave a legacy. I want to use this expo as a platform to open doors for so many people to meet other people. I want to be remembered for helping others reach their dreams.
Xii~ What advice do you have for our readers? LR~ The best information I can give is, you have to believe it with your whole heart. You will run into a lot of no's and things that can turn you away. Things that are not going to go right. If you truly believe in it and it's in your heart to do it, that has to be your passion, your drive to keep going. Keep your dream close to your heart and keep going until you get a yes.
DAG3 Delivers “The Funny” LeAndrea Mack
I'Keim Berger
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| Chris Hutchins
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Clarence Lomax
KEEP ‘EM
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Andrew H
Hutchins
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| Terence Berger
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Kendall Madison
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Frank Ford
LAUGHIN’
Terence Berger Live at the IMPROV July 11, 2013
In July, DAG3, a group of dynamic comedians and sketch artists from the Kansas City area gave a hilarious but truthful stand-up comedy performance at the famous Improv Theater that had the crowd belting out laughs, holding their stomachs, and clapping their hands in hilarious delight! Comedian Terence Berger hosted the show and kept the crowd on their toes with witty one-liners, frivolous stories, wild costume changes and hilarious interactive videos. Berger helped the audience understand that DAG3, which means Dedicated to Achieving Greatness, is more than just a group of local stand-up comedians but that they are sketch artist, film directors, and very talented actors!
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Clarence Lomax Bringing the comedy to Audiences from stage to Video.
Berger confesses that he did not choose comedy but that it chose him. He explains, “I have developed comedic tunnel vision and this helps me stay focused on my
ultimate mission, laughter.” The July performance was Berger’s last in Kansas City. He will be hitting the road for DAG3’s regional (Continued on page 20)
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In Tribute to
TRAYVON MARTIN
And Those Like Him, YOUTH...Keep It Moving.
By Jermaine Reed
"You know, when Trayvon Martin was first shot, I said that this could have been my son. Another way of saying that is Trayvon Martin could have been me, 35 years ago," said President Obama at the White House, in his first public remarks after the acquittal of Martin’s killer, George Zimmerman. The President used his personal experiences with racism as a way of explaining the suffering of the African American community. This was admirable, rare, and refreshing. Despite what people would like you to believe, we don’t live in a colorblind society. Race is a part of the world we live in and I believe in calling a spade, a spade. I would like to echo the President’s remarks and use this as an opportunity to encourage our youth as they prepare for this next academic year. If there’s anything to take away from the Trayvon Martin catastrophe it’s that we need the next generation to have more lawyers, judges, police officers, and all around leaders from our community, so that our interests are well represented. Hopefully this tragedy will not be forgotten; rather it will motivate you as you continue on with your (Continued on page 20)
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“...If there’s anything to take away from the Trayvon Martin catastrophe it’s that we need the next generation to have more lawyers, judges, police officers, and all around leaders from our community, so that our interests are well represented.”
7/15/13. Rally at the Freedom Fountain In KCMO following the verdict that freed Trayvon Martin killer, George Zimmerman
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(Continued from page 16)
college tour before moving to California where his dreams await him. Comedian Clarence Lomax is busier than ever! In addition to his recent performance at the Improv Theater, he is currently in production for his YouTube Channel Educated playa 05. Often times comedians elaborate on the technicalities that come with creating a good show but Clarence’s response was not that complicated, his drive to pursue a career in comedy was simple, “I love to make people laugh. Laughter creates positive energy and I feed off of it.” After taking an acting class about a year ago, Lomax decided that he would pursue comedy with the passion and integrity that the greats before him embodied. He studied comedians from Richard Pryor to Martin Lawrence and even newer successful comedians like Kevin Hart and Katt Williams. As fun and carefree as comedians look on stage, Lomax admits that preparation for a performance can be a very daunting task as there are a lot of last minute changes and since comedians are human, there could be times when they are not in a creative, happy, or upbeat mood but Lomax said this is easily combated by the eager audience waiting for a reason to smile. Lomax joined the infamous DAG3 last year and will be touring with them this fall and if laughter is good for the soul then comedians Clarence Lomax and Terence Berger have created a smorgasbord of talent and opportunities. We wish them well on their future of generating laughs around the country.
(Continued from page 18) Lonnie
& Gina McFadden.
education. I wish to now offer you a few Music is in the blood. words of advice as you continue on your journey of learning. First, work hard at the things you set out to do. Often, natural ability is not as important as desire and work ethic. If you did not slow down towards the end of last year: congratulations. Continue that drive in every aspect of life. If you had trouble staying motivated towards the end, use this as an opportunity to start anew. Second, make goals and write them down. Keep your list of goals handy. When life gets tough and things aren’t going the way you planned, pull out your list of goals, refocus, and then press forward. When you achieve a goal, cross it off, celebrate, and then make a new goal. Keep creating new goals and strive to improve your life and others around you. Never stop reaching for a higher level of achievement. Third, find a mentor. There is always someone else out there who has been through it. No matter how smart you think you are, you can always learn something from others. Find a stable and successful person that you admire and ask them questions before making major decisions. You will get further in life learning from the mistakes of others than making your own mistakes. Finally, do things, be involved. There are a ton of things to do regardless of where you are. Start a new hobby, learn a new language, join a new club, etc. You are at one of the best times of your life because the world is wide open. I know the future is bright for you. I look forward to seeing you reach your goals and dreams. Just remember to give back to your peers, community and family along the journey. God bless. Jermaine Reed Member of City Council, 3rd District Kansas City, Missouri
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KC’s Own
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To Dos Back To Work Students! By Rhenate Hodges
Elementary 1. It is very important to listen to your teacher and follow the rules 2. Always be good, nice, and polite to everyone 3. No fighting, biting, or being mean that's not nice 4. Read everyday to grow smarter 5. Smile it makes you feel better
Middle School 1. Don't be tardy, don't skip class or school because you could miss out on important information 2. Be respectful to yourself, teachers, and peers 3. Complete and turn in all of your classwork and homework to get better grades 4. Don't allow bullying of yourself or anyone else. If you see bullying or you are being bullied, tell someone 5. Laugh everyday—it's good for the heart
High School 1. Don't give in to peer pressure— say ‘no’ to drugs, alcohol, and sex. High school is the start of your future! Don't allow your future to be tainted by reckless behavior. Think about you future! Your dreams are worth saying ‘no’ for! 2. Participate in class assignments, school activities, and community programs, and remember that volunteers make great leaders. 3. Go to school and stay in school! High school is temporary. Life is forever. Make the choice to get your education. 4. Rest and eat healthy. Your body needs to reju23
venate everyday. Health habits make a major difference in your life. 5. Inspire yourself with a positive thought everyday. Find scriptures, quotes, or sayings that push you to do your best. Share them with someone else. It just might help to make his or her day better.
College 1. Make wise choices— college is an exciting time to experience life. Experience life in a positive way. One wrong choice can cause you a lifetime of pain and disappointment. Wise choices can give your life the fulfillment that you desire. 2. Don't waste time or money— college is expensive and could possibly take a lot of time. Use the time to find a major that you enjoy. 3. Don't settle for less— reach for the stars in everything that you do. Be your best you! 4. Learn everyday— you are never too old to learn something new. Always continue to learn. Seek wisdom, knowledge, and understanding. 5. Enjoy yourself life is too short to worry about the opinions of others.
Graduate School 1. Manage time wisely— it’s easy to get lost in your school work and let life slip away. Finding the balance between the two can make life easier and more fulfilling. 2. Prioritize tasks accordingly— what is most important? What can you do without? 3. Manage Stress— know your stress triggers and find your stress relievers. 4. Adopt a humble character— don't let pride cause you to fall. 5. Give back time, money, and knowledge. Someone is looking up to you. Be that positive influence in his or her life and sow good seeds.
“I have a beautiful little girl by the name of Joye, and
to hear her running up and down these aisles, hearing her scream “Daddy, Daddy”! That provides me with the necessary motivation to make sure that her life is that much easier than I had it when I was growing up. That is my every minute, every second motivation.”
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JosepH Thomas
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SERVICE By LeAndrea Mack & Ian Anderson
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n the ground floor of the Lincoln Building in the Historic Jazz District on 18th and Vine, a new kid is on the block and 1805 E. 18th Street is home to 180V Barbershop & Salon. Joseph “Joey” Thomas, a 30 year old entrepreneur and philanthropist combines old school wisdom and savvy with new age methodology to produce the best results for his businesses and organizations. Thomas has been passionately cutting hair for over eighteen years. His passion still stems from the industry, but his focus has matured from benefiting financially, to being an entrepreneur that gives back in his community. “Being able to create careers for others has been a true reward beyond anything that I could imagine!” he says. Joey also has an organization called The Know Joey Foundation. The foundation exists for the entrepreneurial development of young men, hosting various community events throughout the year. Mentoring is an intricate part of Joey’s contributions to the community. Growing up, his mentors played a significant role in honing his character and cultivating his entrepreneurial bent. Darren Washington, Cyrus Rodgers, Gary Maltbia, and Harold Mitchem were all mentors that value the importance of being able to provide those opportunities to the next generation. Joey took a few minutes to discuss business, charity, upcoming events, Kansas City, and the meaning behind his latest enterprise, 180V, with XII magazine. XII: Joey, you’ve made a rise that is
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seemingly uncommon for most in your industry. You have started a charitable foundation that supports and encourages young people in our community, won numerous awards, been recognized not only as one of the best in your industry, but also as a respected business man in this community. Talk to us about what motivates you. How has the journey been? JT: The journey hasn’t been easy. I have been cutting hair since I was 12. I went to barber college at 17 and have been licensed since the age of 18. Barber College was a trip, because in the course of three months, my family and I were almost homeless. In the span of that time I watched my mother, who showed so much courage in raising her sons, file bankruptcy, go through a divorce, lose her business, and see her get close to a breaking point. That was something that was very unfamiliar for me. Today’s motivation includes providing career opportunities for my staff, to remain focused on goals and to remember the path that I was once on. Most importantly is my daughter. I have a beautiful little girl by the name of Joye, and to hear her running up and down these aisles, hearing her scream “Daddy, Daddy”! That provides me with the necessary motivation to make sure that her life is that much easier than I had it when I was growing up. That is my every minute, every second motivation. XII: Give us an insight on your inspiration for the Know Joey Foundation and some of the upcoming projects you have for it & other philanthropic interests?
XII: For the young professionals who are reading this. Talk to us about the importance of community engagement and community involvement. JT: It’s all about reinvestment. Pray and meditate and figure out what God’s Will is for your life. Reinvest in yourself and whatever fulfills you; the things that mean most to you.
“Barber College was a trip, because in the course of three months, my family and I were almost homeless.”
JT: I knew that I had a heart to do something more for the community as a way to say “Thank You”. Basically myself, Gary Mitchell, Kevin Winston, Tressa, my very good childhood friend, and Jus Jay came together and we figured we had to
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do something for the community. We had our first Turkey Tuesday in 2006 or 2007 and all we wanted to do was raise turkeys and feed families. We linked up with my church New Beginnings and we collected 27 turkeys. From that point it has grown, and last year, we raised 575 turkeys. Our goal this year is to raise 1,000 turkeys. Every year it keeps growing and gets better and better. Up to this point we have raised over 1,000 turkeys and over 5,000 lbs of non-perishable food items. The community loves it; they respect it, anticipate it, and really appreciate it.
XII: With the success that you’ve had in Kansas City, it would be easy for you to transition into a bigger market and make it your new home. Talk to us about the appeal of staying in your hometown, finding success in this city and becoming one of the new age pillars of this community. What does Kansas City mean to you? JT: Kansas City is home. I love everything about the city, and without Kansas City there would be no Joey Cuts. I love the people, the neighborhoods, the smells, the opportunities. I feel as if it’s only right that I take care of my community, stand up for it and do what I know is right. I feel as if I owe that. I’m indebted to the people that invested in my life when I didn’t have other people.
XII: What’s next for Joey Thomas the businessman? JT: Lord willing, my five year plan is the col(Continued on page 32)
Harold L. Holliday, III
Legacy
Grab your game controllers and press START. Walk slowly and carefully.
The rules are simple. Keep your eye out for danger and stay on the straight and narrow path. Make it to the end…you win. Welcome to the Game of Life. Sounds simple enough, but we neglected to tell you, we’ll throw in a few grenades called lust, jealousy and greed. Add a few bombs called accidents and the economy. Now put it all on a time clock. Things get fairly complicated, fairly quickly. Each move calls for a careful decision. When you need help, a good lawyer is often the remedy. Harold Holliday understands the Game of Life. He’s in a unique position of seeing the full spectrum of life’s best and worst decisions. Personally, he’s thriving, experiencing success at the helm of Holliday Law Firm, one of Kansas City’s oldest law firms. The firm specializes in personal injury and criminal defense, which means he’s also the direct lifeline for many of those impacted by the worst decisions—criminals and victims. Looking at Holliday’s life and you get a sense that it can’t be all about decisions. Some of it
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must be hereditary. How else do you explain an actual family of lawyers and pioneers? Holliday’s grandfather was the first AfricanAmerican to graduate from UMKC’s law school. His father was first African-American to graduate from the MU’s law school. His sister, Holli, is also a lawyer. Holliday credits the overall emphasis on education as a motivator that helped him pursue this profession and become successful. “My grandparents and parents and family all had advanced degrees. Not just degrees, but advanced degrees.” Sure education is necessary, but today, you have to take a hard look at your profession. The field of law has changed from the days of Holliday’s predecessors. There’s saturation, competition and new resources. “The window is closing”, he says. “There’ll always be a need for lawyers, but anytime there’s more information available about a subject, the opportunities you have to use it for business become smaller.” Holliday cites how people can go to the internet for 85% of much of what they need, including legal documentation. After all, practicing law is just a matter of having a “good (Continued on page 30)
Raye Jackson, photography
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Harold Holliday, III Managing Partner Holliday Law Firm
(Continued from page 28)
understanding of what the lawmakers intended and its application”, says Holliday. Holliday has been able to remain steadfast in the profession for a few reasons. First, as he states it, “I’m a good lawyer, but I’m a great businessman.” Law is like any other business, so it’s the relationships and referrals that can help you grow. “Some lawyers may charge more, and in the end, a client doesn’t feel like they’ve had a fair shake. People that feel like that will tell people about their negative experience. His other strong point is personality. “I can connect with people on their level”, citing his ability to communicate with people and relay information, options and solutions in simple terms when necessary. He goes the extra mile Read often,It. providing additional attention to servicing and following up with clients. Wear It.
Dream It.
Law. It’s not for everyone. “You’re getting people at their worst times of their lives”, describing the difficult nature of this field. You have to be able to deal daily with people facing murder, divorce, death, jail. That’s baggage that you have to carry. So what keeps him going?
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“I enjoy the mental challenges. The strategy”, says Holliday. Holliday discusses the working relationships and negotiations between prosecutor and defense attorneys. In the end, it’s about saving lives and helping make bad decisions better. It sounds like community service but he’s no social worker. It’s work for Holliday. No matter the time and hours he’s putting in for his clients, his purpose is clear. It’s all for family. He’s understands the sacrifice and opportunity created by his father and grandfather and is working now to do the same for his children. “I want my children to be in a profession they love. Have some balance with the job, but they’ve got to understand their responsibility to pay it forward to their children. If you’ve had a nice home, nice clothes, toys, make sure your children have that or better.” You can expect with that encouragement, and a little pressure from the Holliday name, the legacy will continue for generations. Holliday Law Firm 816-842-1600 1102 Grand, KCMO
magazine
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Fresh Cut. Fresh Start
(Continued from page 27)
lege, which is the birth of the franchise and the twelvekc.com empire of Joey Cuts. It’s not about standing behind the chair. There’s products, distribution, merchandising, opportunities, and business ownership. The opportunity of being in this location, being in this area, I had to write book reports on this place. It has truly been a blessing. XII: What’s the meaning behind 180V JT: The address being 1805, I had a vision. I didn’t know how people would take it, and it’s (numerically) 1-8-0 and the letter V. The letter V represents Vine, and 180 represent a turn around, a new direction. The question and thought came to mind, how do we take Vine and turn it around in a new direction. That’s what I think my mission is, myself, other young professionals, including those who are not business owners. Just young professional minded people. Our challenge is to take Vine in a new direction.
On August 11th The Know Joey Foundation held its 6th annual Fresh Cut/Fresh Start, an event offering young men ages K-12th grade with free haircuts, book bags, school supplies and free immunizations from The KC Health Department . This year, the event partnered with Rubies to create a “Girls Only Zone” offering free make up services by Sass Parlor, a nail bar courtesy of Nisha Nails, and jewelry creations by EarKandie CEO Bosede Iyewarun.
LOVE HUDSON & JANE Velvet Blazer, Pants, Shirts, and Pocket Square. BANANA REPUBLIC Boots HALLS Pin
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Hot Book Picks
Books aren’t just for the students going back to school. Take some time to explore, learn and discover.
Summer is the perfect time to take a breather and dive into a good book. With a little something for everyone, check out a few titles that are sure to be hard to put down. Music/Memoir Pick: Mo’ Meta Blues: The World According to Questlove by Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson. If you are a fan of The Roots , then chances are you are a fan of Questlove. This memoir , as rich and eclectic as its subject, is a sure winner for music lovers, hip hop lovers, or like minded artists who want to dig into a good read. Health Pick: Shred: The Revolutionary Diet: 6 Weeks 4 Inches 2 Sizes by Ian K. Smith. Just because summer will soon come to a glorious end, doesn’t mean you can’t still work for a glorious body. Dr. Smith, who first gained national recognition on VH1’s Celebrity Weight Loss, is a health advocate who believes in getting people serious about their health. The book offers a weight loss program with strategy. Nook Book Pick: The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho is available for the first time in English. The classic story is a great pick for intellectuals, philosophers and book club attendees. Sure to spark conversation and become a Nook favorite. Oprah’s Book Club Pick: The Twelve Tribes of Hattie by Ayana Mathis is also an Oprah Book Club Pick. It tells the story of Hattie Shepherd and her journey living during the 1930s era of The Great Migration. Local Pick: A Beautiful Mess . If you are a poetry lover, check out a collection of poems that tell the story of the high and low of an all but perfect love. The collection, by local Kansas City artist Randi McCreary, is available through Lulu Publishing and Amazon.com.
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Xi Tau Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. celebrated thirty years in July. The chapter hosted a variety of public and private events such as the Diamond & Pearls 30th Anniversary Celebration, Legends Brunch, Day Party, and worship service throughout the KC area.
30th Anniversary
Hot Stiletto’s 3rd Annual Hot Stiletto party 7/14, Simpson House, KCMO. Shoes, vendors, contests, food, music & more.
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Stylist GUIDE LaDonna Adams Joey Cuts 3914 Indiana KCMO 64130 816-682-9018 LaDonnaDimples@hotmail.com Keara Austin Champu Hair Design 313 SE DOUGLAS Lees Summit, Missouri 64063 816-213-9380 816-246-5533 champuhair.com keara@champuhair.com Qiana Bass Joey Cuts 913-636-1934 Qianab33@gmail.com Lezlie Berger Hairlines 902 west 39th st. Kansas City, MO 64111 816-399-7193 Lezlieberger1961@gmail.com Stacy Brown Hairlines 902 west 39th st. Kansas City, MO 64111 816-674-7978 Stacybrown9899@yahoo.com Shemeka Cockerm 816-372-8891 Ahnsamb17@gmail.com Madia Cooper 180V 816-591-9932 madiacooper@yahoo.com Moraima Hernandez The Annex by AO 917-891-4854 ms.hernandez@live.com 37
Looking for a Barber or Stylist, Contact KC’s Best!
Zekia Geotcha Goeshe hair 575-4-GOESHE Goeshehair@gmail.com Bridgette R. Johnson The Annex by AO 816-651-6545 816-525-4247 J.Bridgette51@yahoo.com Ariele Hardy 816-332-1198 fabulousjane@gmail.com LaDwan Herring Talkin Headz Unlimited 7100 Prospect Ave Kansas City, MO 64132 816-739-0166 Ronaye816@yahoo.com Victor Hooks 913-485-5916 forvic@sbcglobal.net Brittany Leek 180V 404-990-6563 Brittjay80@gmail.com Arica Lynn Salon TCB 4405 E. Blue Parkway Kansas City, Missouri 64130 816-382-8257 816-356-2200 salon Ladi.lynn88@gmail.com Aisha Ogletree The Annex by AO 236 NE Chipman Rd Lees Summit, Missouri 64063 816-525-427 theannexbyao@gmail.com
Keishaun Redmond Knappy Rootz Beauty Salon 1734 E. 63rd Street Suite 206A Kansas City, Mo 64110 816-361-4247 krbeautysalon@gmail.com Bianca Russell 180V 816-699-2350 Biancarussell69@yahoo.com Glen Stylez Rick's BarberShop & Natural Hair Care 6423 Quivira Rd Shawnee, KS, 66216 913-602-6512 dreamstylezkc@gmail.com Joseph Thomas 180V 1805 Vine St Kansas City, MO 816-309-9411 joey@joeycuts.com Garrick Whittington Rosalon 10009 E. Bannister Rd. KCMO 64134 816-872-8064 Y2kutz@yahoo.com Joyce Williams 816-210-6275 JWilliamsrealtor@hotmail.com
‘Cause Women Love A Well-dressed man!
WE COULDN’T END THE 2013 SEASON WITHOUT TAKING YOU POOLSIDE. FOLLOWING IS OUR SUMMER FITNESS AND STYLE SHOWCASE.CALLED...
T W E L VE
SWIM twelvekc.com 38
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This summer, designers, Brittany Jones and Stephanie Clark came together to create their first clothing line, KILL. In June, they debuted their very first line of swimwear called Kill Swim. Kill Swim represents individuality. Daring to be different, it’s tailored the personality of their line—“innovation and high fashion” design. The owners attribute a good working relationship as the foundation of their success. “As codesigners and good friends, we are easily able to drawn upon our individual styles and bring them to life through our work.”
ALIA STAYS FIT:
WEEKLY GYM WORK. RUNNING, LUNGES, CRUNCHES & SQUATS.
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Anthony Saunders
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HE’S GOT THAT STAR POWER KINDA MUSIC
LAUREN STAYS FIT:
MORNING RUN
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CALVIN STAYS FIT:
TRACK, WEIGHT TRAINING, CONDITIONING EXERCISES
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Just a snapshot of events from the nonprofit calendar. For complete listings, visit kcsoul.com
Malcolm X
Friday | 8.2.13 KCSoul.com and Xii Night UniverSoul Circus Swope Park, KCMO Add your upcoming events and more to kcsoul.com. Just create a login or use your Facebook log-in. Thur 8/22 Network with NAHSE Event type: Networking Venue: Bulldog: 1715 Main St KCMO KC NAHSE nahsekcr@gmail.com Fri 8/23 Nite Out In White Event type: Party Venue: Ramada Inn (Formerly Park Place Hotel) 1601 Universal Ave Producer: Point 5 Productions Email: jsmith220@sbcglobal.net Sat 8/24 PRAISE! Event type: Concert Venue: Afrikan Centered Education Collegium Campus 3500 E. Meyer Blvd KCMO Producer: KTK Just For You Email: ktkjustforyou@gmail.com Fri 8/30 The Tallest Tree in the Forest Event type: Play Venue: Copaken Stage 42
Thur 9/12 UFSC 6th Annual Golf Tournament Venue: Deer Creek Golf Course 7000 West 133rd ST Overland Park KS Time: 8a-1p Email: ernest.l.campbell@wellsfargo.com Fri 09/13 A Klassic Affair Event type: Fundraiser Venue: The 9th Inning: 1512 E 18th Street Kansas City MO Time: 6:00 PM - 1:00 AM Producer: AKA - Xi Tau Omega Chapter & KC Alumni Chapter - Kappa Alpha Contact: Email: aklassicaffair@gmail.com Sat 09/14 Classic TAKEOVER with Biz Markie Event type:   Venue: 18th & Vine Kansas City MO Time: 9:00 PM - 2:00 AM Producer: KC Alphas and KCSoul.com Contact: Email: betalambda06@hotmail.com Web: kcalphas.com
Sat 09/28 Women of Worth (WOW) Conference Event type: Conference Venue: Kauffman Foundation Conference Center: 4801 Rockhill Rd KCMO Time: 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM Producer: Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Xi Tau Omega Chapter & Con Contact: AKA - Xi Tau Omega Chapter Email: aka.xtochapter@gmail.com Sun 09/29 Jazz Brunch w/ Chris Cakes Event type: Fundraiser Venue: Riverfront Community Center: 123 S. Esplanade St Leavenworth KS Time: 10:30 AM - 2:30 PM Producer: Leavenworth Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority In Contact: Elaine Johnson Email: johnsonelaine22@yahoo.com Phone: 816237-8214
kcsoul.com KCs Urban Source. Add Your Events!
NINA STAYS FIT:
HEALYHY EATING & RUNNING
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The Rooftop Pool Party wrapped up KC Greek Picnic 2013. Explore some of the TWELVEKC.COM other haps and scenes in the following pages.
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KATHERINE
FITNESS
STAYS FIT:
GYM WORK
Katherine Williams is on her way to dominating the fitness world. After only competing for a year as an amateur National Physique Committee (NPC) Bikini athlete, Williams qualified for her professional IFBB Bikini Pro card in her first competition of the season in Charleston, South Carolina. Williams won her class beating out over thirty other ladies in order to move on to the next level. During her first year, Williams got off to a fast start by finishing in the top of her class while competing in several major cities. Competing professionally was her number one goal for this year. She spent a lot of hours working out in the gym and following a strict nutritional diet. Williams’ hard work paid off. She made her pro debut August 10th in Tampa, Florida at the IFBB Tampa Pro Bodybuilding Championships, and ranked among the top 10 out of 25 bikini pro athletes. She is well on track to becoming one of the new young faces of the Pro Bikini division.
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JAMES STAYS FIT:
GYM WORK
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TARA STAYS FIT:
LAUGH, LOVE & PLAY HARD
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BENJAMIN STAYS FIT:
SWIMMING, CARDIO, DRINKING PLENTY OF WATER, HIGH PROTEIN DIET.
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BUY GUIDE SEE MORE BLACK BIZ LISTINGS at kcsoul.com Purchase a listing: twelve@kcsoul.com
Andre Hayes AEH Photography 816.803.2575 drebo25@gmail.com Carlose Estes Prudential Financial Professional 170 English Landing Drive Suite 221A Parkville, MO, 64152 816-741-0022 fax: 816-746-1194 email: carlose.estes@prudential.com Christopher M. White Meddrin, Inc Fashion Styling/Image Consulting 816.529.1531 meddrininc@yahoo.com The College Basketball Experience and National Collegiate Basketball Hall of Fame 1401 Grand Blvd. Kansas City, Missouri 64106 www.collegebasketballexperience.com Eric McTye Edward Jones Financial 817 Parallel Kansas City, KS 66112 913.299.3600 Gregory Ikner AGA Group 9300 W. 110th St. Corporate Woods Building 55 Suite 330 877.314.7733 Www.aggexecsearch.com 54
Jessikha Williams Photographer iconjaiwill@gmail.com 816.589.8491 Raye Jackson Photographer 816.916.4711 Jayerax47@yahoo.com 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 SPRINT www.sprint.com UMB Bank www.umb.com W. Sarah Fletcher Greatness Realized Professional Coach, Speaker and Development Specialist success@greatnessrealized.com www.greatnessrealized.com 913.890.3402 Facebook: Greatness Realized
twelvekc.com SECURE an Ad or listing Today. Email: twelve@kcsoul.com
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