This magazine is called TWELVE to note its monthly presence, only TWELVE times a year. Also, and more importantly, TWELVE is a symbol of time. So it represents timely information and the central point by which life events are measured. And of course, timepieces are part of the finer things, perfect for our core readers in pursuit of sophisticated living. Welcome to TWELVE.
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Volume II, Issue VII
COVER
JULY 2014
Anthony Boyer DON’T MISS
Welcome to SEVEN
Calendar 52
TWELVE Magazine is part of the KCSoul.com network. Owned by H.G.E. Marketing, LLC. (H.G.E.). Views & opinions expressed here are not necessarily those of H.G.E. or contributors.
Welcome to our FIT & FLY issue. We present the “look” of summer in this issue. In particular, we salute those with a commitment to fitness, who are beach-ready with toned physiques. Speaking of bodies, we also reveal some who’ve turned their bodies into art. Of course, this is TWELVE, so in this issue, you're sure to learn something new. Business to entertainment, it’s all here! Remember, beyond the digital or print experience, TWELVE is interactive, so get involved and engage at our live events too!
INSIDE
BIZ: Sam West
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Music
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Beach Body
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You have an opportunity to contribute to the content by writing, submitting story suggestions, and of course, attending the launch events and more. Contact us at twelve@kcsoul.com to get involved and send us feedback, too! Sincerely,
Ken L kcsoul.com
@TWELVEKC
Network: RECAP 28
What’s Different? Read It & Experience it Live
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Fitness
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Retail: Tamara
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INK
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Though a lifestyle publication isn’t unique, TWELVE evolves the genre. It’s the only magazine that you both read and live. We set out to create more than a literary piece. We’ve merged both the online world and the live event into the “magazine experience”. Once a month, we release a new issue of the magazine. The release is paired with a live launch event, where the feature elements and characters of our magazine are brought to life for you to touch, taste, feel and experience. The live experience becomes part of gathering ground of additional stories, photos, and more for the final written magazine.
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SPECIAL THANKS To all of Our Writers, Designers, Planners, Contributors, Advertisers & Supporters of Xii.
Pictured: Monique Waters Lindsey Hester
Ken L. Shemeka Cockerm Keyana Collins Kween Colston Eryn Davis-Hayter DJ Franklin Jasmine Jackson Raye Jackson Katrina Leonard Clarence Lomax Iman Lott Sherry Lumpkins LeAndrea Mack Randi McCreary Carlanda McKinney Gary Mitchell Casie Murff Tiffaney Oakes Corey Phillips
twelvekc.com twelve@kcsoul.com
Earl Smith LaToya Traylor Tony Van Trece Jessikha Williams Christopher White
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@twelvekc
BUSINESS
Photo: Ken Lumpkins
Do or Die.
When your very existence is at stake, you’ll figure out a way. Sam West, owner of the Chick-fil-A at the Legends, once found himself in dire straits. The odds were against him. He grew up in a poor household from a family of 16. He was in a house with no gas and no indoor plumbing. Fortunately, he believed higher education was his saving grace. Yet, with his dad making no more $5,000 a year, financial support from home wasn’t an option.” He suffered through his early years and decided something had to be done. “In my Junior and senior year, I created a bologna sandwich business. What I would do from a marketing standpoint, after the cafeteria would close at 7pm, guys would begin to study at 9pm. Nine o’clock was key, West says, pairing lack of supply of food--since the (Continued on page 8)
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HUNGER For Success Over 20,000 people compete to own a single Chick-fil-A restaurant. Sam West came out on top.
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Chick-fil-A at the Legends, 10770 Parallel Pkwy, KC, KS. Sam West takes pride in delivering: Quality People, Quality Food, & a Clean Restaurant. (Continued from page 6)
kitchen was closed--and hunger that was sure to ensue after a late night of studying. “If you’re going to target market, you’ve not only got to know where your target is but the time it is. So I needed an aroma that would inspire hunger. So I would cook bacon and onions and fan the door and the aroma would go through the halls. That would get the taste and flavor in their minds. Because it was priced right, there was a demand for it…and it was a major success.” Those very same core essentials of his bologna business success led to his interest in Chick-fil-A: quality of people, the quality of food, and cleanliness of their restaurant. “Those are the three things that inspired me to pursue Chick-fil-A further”, says West. A Business Right For Me West has tasted success before in the mortgage business and wasn’t interested in another business at the time. “I was not looking at all. I did not make a comparison with any other franchise operation. My interest was inspired by my experience. This was more of coincidence just based on the dining experience I had at Chick-fil-A. After dining, I became intrigued. I wanted to learn more about it,
what it took to be an operator with Chick-fil-A.” Fortunately, CFA fits West’s business and lifestyle pursuits. “I wanted to own a business, whereas I could create a legacy for my family and yet have time to spend enjoying it in the process. That’s very important. The dynamics in that help keep your values in line. Family is a high priority to me. My belief is a high priority to me and how we serve others is a high priority to me. Those are some of my core values that I wanted to have the opportunity to utilize; and you can do that if you’re an entrepreneur because it frees you up to make decisions, to make an impact on those you do business with or those you come into contact with,” West states. A Model Business It’s common to discuss a business model, but it’s rare that a business is actually a “role model”. CFA can arguably be considered a role model. First, the franchise fee is just $5,000. This low point of entry is an indication that their whole approach to business is different. The key is that community and character are at the top of their interests. West states, “With Chick-fil-A, it’s never about money. It is about your ability to lead and inspire young people as well (Continued on page 14)
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KC GREEK PICNIC Sat June 28, 2014 Swope Park, KCMO
KC GREEK PICNIC | ALUMNI AFTERPARTY Sat June 28, 2014 Club Privilege KCMO
Brought to you by KC Greek Picnic Co-hosted by 12MAG
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BUSINESS MUSIC
Wherever you are this summer, in the mood for love, ready to party or just lounging on the beach, here’s your soundtrack for summer. Below, just a few of the artists from the R&B and Hip-Hop, 12 Play Mix CD: MUSIKC. Find out more about them in coming issues of TWELVE. Listen NOW at twelvekc.com
Photo: Raye Jackson Graphics: Ken L
Lil Cupid
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Dezmond Alexander
Jus Julius
Twelvekc.com
Quinten Jones
Photo: Jessikha Williams
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Chosen Voice
tions. “When I talk about leadership, I’m talking about “servantship”. West explains, “Having a servant’s heart. There are great leaders that are not great people. What CFA looks for are is are great leaders who are great people and really have a genuine interest in and clear understanding of what it takes to run a business. (Continued from page 8)
making a difference in the community you’re doing business in.” “As I began to investigate and explore CFA, there’s a statement they made that jumps out the most, that got me excited, “You’re in business for yourself, but you’re not in business by yourself.” That’s a clear distinguisher between other companies and CFA. In other words, they strive for your success, he says. With that in mind, it offered some different dynamics in terms of how you could run your business most effectively. You never really have to worry about capital. For most small businesses, that’s one of the biggest hurdles you’re faced with. West explains that, essentially, CFA funds the operation, you manage the operation, and you both split the profits. “How are you going to fund your net 30 or 60?” That’s the question most businesses seem to face. However, as West has discovered, “If your struggle is with money, it takes away from you being the very best you can be because you can’t fully utilize the skills that you have that would cause you to be successful because your energy is being drawn in areas that causes stress, not creativity. So that gave me the freedom to function in what I call my element.”
As West explained his leadership skills in his CFA interviews, “I’m an artist. I’m the guy that can paint that picture and rally people to fulfill the mission or vision I’ve set for my store.” An underlying part of how you get through the interview process is whether you’re truly a servant and truly an entrepreneur. If you’ve got that entrepreneurial spirit, they know you’ll do whatever it takes to make your business successful. Here’s West’s personal approach to success: “As an operator, my job is to do two things well: develop and implement a strategic initiative and inspire people for the tactical execution. When you select your people, you’re looking for capacity: What is their ability to comprehend and implement what you’re teaching them?”
“my job is to do two things well: develop and implement a strategic initiative and inspire people for the tactical execution.”
Only Leaders Need Apply West describes “his element” as his ability to lead and inspire people. West believes “leadership” is the foundation. “For any business, if they would raise their level, in terms of skill and leadership, you would find that you wouldn’t have as many businesses failing. CFA will teach you operation fundamentals, but leadership is part of what you bring to the table. West states that it’s beyond business opera14
One of THOUSANDS Having read the leadership qualities above, if you’re ready to put your $5,000 down, get in line. West revealed, “As it stands now, each store we open receives a minimum of 20,000 applicants for that store. It’s very competitive to get in it, not from a financial standpoint, but from a leadership and skills standpoint. If you’re lucky enough to be selected for the next stage, it can be up to a three -year interview process. This is definitely for the tenacious. Leaders suited to this business (diagram) Left hand: Honest, integrity, commitment (Right hand) Creative Entrepreneurial with staying power West closes with a final lesson for budding entrepreneurs. “There are three things you should do: 1. Believe in your product. 2. Believe in your company. 3. Believe you’re the right person at the right time for the right job. That’s it!
MUSIC (continued from pg 13) Listen to Jus Julius on the NEW 12 Play Mix CD, MUSIKC
THE POSSIBILITIES
PLAY
Jus Julius is singer-songwriter from Kansas City, Kansas. His talent is anchored by his superior vocal skills and true to life musical illustrations. He started singing in junior high and began to take his craft serious at Wyandotte High School, where he participate in its vocal music department and won many awards. He was named the state’s top tenor three years in a row. After high school Jus went off to college where he traveled around the world singing several different genres of music from gospel to opera with the world renown Rust College A’cappella Choir. After graduating college Jus moved back to Kansas City and began to record, building his catalog. His songwriting abilities were recognized and Ernest “Bishop” Dixon asked Jus to be a part of the Platinum Firm Production Staff as songwriter. Jus also wrote songs for Dru Hill’s “Indrupendence Day.” He co-wrote and arranged the first single “Love MD” from there he went on to work with Rotimi Akinosho (Boss & Black Nativity) he penned several songs for the up and coming actorsinger. He is currently working on his debut album “Church After Hours” set to be released at the end of 2014.
READ NEXT MONTH’S ISSUE FEATURING ANOTHER ARTIST FROM THE 12 PLAY CD. Photo by Keyana Collins Graphics: Ken L
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MUSIC
12 PLAY CD SERIES presents
MUSIKC LISTEN TODAY AT TWELVEKC.COM
How It Feel
Chosen Voice
Dezmond Alexander
Chosen Voice
What Would I Be Dezmond Alexander
The Possibilities Jus Julius
Callin Me Quinten Jones
Stop the Violence Lil Cupid
AtraKCted (Attracted) 3D aka DRIZZ
Global Ambition Chris Warren
4 Minute WorkOut Tight Flow Regime (T.F.R.)
Booty Bang Drone Boyz
SUMMER MUSIC PLAY
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Twelvekc.com
Jus Julius
Quinten Jones
Lil Cupid
Photo: Keyana Collins On1ClickProductions
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SUMMER
Y
OU KNEW IT WAS COMING EVENTUALLY….SUMMER. You’ve planned a getaway for months now. Somewhere fun-filled, sun-filled, preferably with a beach nearby is what you sought. While you’ve planned your trip down to the last detail, did you remember everything? Let’s see. Clothes, sunglasses, sun screen, and spending money. Yep. That sounds about right, but did you remember to bring your Beach Body? In January, you made the commitment to reveal the new you. You’ve worked all year for this. The gym hours, the diet, the sacrifices... now it’s time to show the results. If you fell short of your goal, use this section to regain a little inspiration to get back on your plan. Thanks to all of our models and participants for showing us what a little time and effort will do.
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Monique Waters Personal Trainer/Massage Therapist BS in Cell Biology “If you are offered a seat on a rocket ship, don't ask what seat, just get on�- Sheryl Sandberg Favorite Exercise/Machine: Deadlift Least Favorite Exercise/Machine: I love it all! I am obsessed!
Photos: Raye Jackson
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Branden Cartwright Satellite Technician, DirecTV Created a YouTube Channel this year “The only thing that beats an excuse is a try� Favorite Exercise/Machine: Reverse Fly Least Favorite Exercise/Machine: Leg curls
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SUMMER
Twelvekc.com
Brizha Handley Licensed Nail Technician Loves to run but hates weights “Trust yourself� Favorite Exercise/Machine: I love to run! Least Favorite Exercise/Machine: Lifting or weights
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SUMMER
Rashouna Newsome Cosmetologist, Beauty Brands 2013 Muscle Mayhem 2nd place national qualifier “Everything you need is already inside” Favorite Exercise/Machine: Free weight squat racks Least Favorite Exercise/Machine: Treadmill
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REVIEW
3rd Annual NETWORK with the 100 June 10, 2014 | UMKC
Melvin Porter (UMB); Phil Spencer (RBI); Walter Porter (Deloitte); Fred Wise (Hallmark); LaDonna Gooden (Nielsen); Carlos Carson (McDonald (Fleishman Hillard); Jason Walters (AMC); Tammy Edwards (Fed); Dr. Daphane Bascom (Cerner); Gene Agee (Sprint); Denise Kelly (NAAAHR); (DENTONS)
Jobs. Business. Connections. It was all here. TWELVE Magazine and the 100 Black Men of Greater Kansas City hosted professionals and organizations at the 3rd Annual Network with the 100. The event was held Tuesday, June 10, 2014, at UMKC, Pierson Auditorium, KCMO. The event featured open mic announcements, exhibits and over twenty leading company executives in top industries. This networking event was specifically designed to assist area professionals and recent college graduates in making “life changing” connections. After all, it’s the right relationships that lead to true success. We believe the live format helps forge these relationships. 28
In addition to a standard business card exchange expected at networking events, back by popular demand, Network with the 100 featured our unique EXECUTIVE Speed Networking session. African-Americans ranging from directors and VP to even chiefs, participate from the country’s top businesses and brands such as UMB, Hallmark, Sprint, Cerner, Truman Medical Center and AMC Theatres, to name a few. Participants met five minutes with a room full of executives to obtain career advice and resume previews. They could also seek industry insights or even pitch ideas to these same executives. It’s mutually beneficial, since executives may also come across contacts that
d’s); Marshaun Butler; Children’s Mercy Rahman Anjorin (KC Chiefs); Niki Donawa TMC); Pete Burney (Hallmark); Willetta Willis-McGhee Vercie Lark (DST); Qiana Thomason (BCBS); Chancellor Leo Morton; Sam West (Chick-fil-A); Davyeon Ross (Shot Tracker); Kelvin Simmons
could be a resource to them personally or professionally. In addition to Executive Speed networking, participants could also bring portfolios or portable drives to demo their work. A NEW feature for 2014, was our onsite business counseling—“Retool/Refuel”, which featured experts skilled in developing and growing businesses. Other key additions to this year’s line-up were the onsite workshops called “Power Sessions”. One titled, “Plan B” counseled individuals in transition (such as layoffs or even college to career) and gave them tools and tips on seeking the next career opportunity. Another session was the “Owners Box”. This catered to entre-
preneurs and those looking to build their business. The focus in that session was on “Franchises” and featured experts in multi-unit businesses from H&R Block to McDonald’s and Chick-fil-A food brands. Overall, guests raved about the experience and the opportunity to meet executives, learn and build professional relationships. Ms. Davis, a guest, posted on our event page, “Congrats to everyone involved on a job well done! I had no expectations going into this event, and I was blown away by the number of Execs on hand to truly offer help and advice!! Anyone who skipped this event missed a great opportunity. Thanks again.” (Continued on page 30)
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SCENE “I was blown away by the number of Execs on hand to truly offer help and advice!! Anyone who skipped this event missed a great opportunity. Thanks again.”
3RD Annual NETWORK with the 100 June 10th | UMKC
(Continued from page 29)
Plans for next year’s event are already underway and scheduled for Thursday, June 4, 2015. If you’d like to be involved or sponsor, email: twelve@kcsoul.com. The 100 Black Men is a national organization of men focused on improving the quality of life within our communities and enhancing educational and economic opportunities for all African Americans. 100blackmenkc.org Network with the 100 is produced by H.G.E. Marketing, LLC, sponsored by KCSoul.com—The Source for KC Urban Events and Information and TWELVE Magazine (twelvekc.com)—KC’s urban lifestyle magazine.
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twelvekc.com Twelvekc.com
Rikayla Barnett Home Healthcare Administrative Assistant Dance Instructor and gymnast Favorite Exercise/Machine: Dancing Least Favorite Exercise/Machine: Running
Photos By Mojica Photography mojicaphotography.com
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SCENE Saturday, June 14th JUNETEENTH | 18TH & Vine St.
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FITNESS
DeJuan Harper
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Photo: Clarence Lomax
DeJuan A Harper was born August 25, 1988, in Kansas City Missouri. He grew up in the Kansas City area and was an active participant in multiple sports, including boxing and Tae Kwon Do. DeJuan attended Ruskin High School and Raytown South High School, playing football, basketball, and running track and field. Of the three sports, football was DeJuan's expertise. In 2012 and 2013, DeJuan played the positions of linebacker and strong safety for the Midwest Titans semi-professional football team. During the two seasons, the Midwest Titans went 17-3 culminating in a championship win. In October 2013, DeJuan met MMA (mixed martial arts) trainer and competitive fighter of the Caveman Crew, Rudy Bears, and put his passion for fighting into play. With rigorous and intense MMA, judo, jujitsu, boxing, wrestling and grappling training, DeJuan is now an Amateur Lightweight fighter with a 2-0 record. Along with training, DeJuan maintains a strict healthy protein diet. He is also training to become a MMA instructor as well as a professional fighter in the months to come.
Before my daughter was born, I was at a period in my life where I woke up every morning and made hollow promises to myself to change my life. When my wife first told me she was pregnant, I knew immediately the lies were going to end, and the action was going to start. When I first started exercising, it was to be able to keep up with my kid. I didn’t want to be the dad who couldn’t play with his kid without getting tired, or bend over to pick her up without aches in my body. Once I began “living the life” if you will, I realized that the fitness community was a very positive place. People that I connected with on social media inspired me beyond exercise. They made me a better person. I realized very quickly that these were the types of influences I wanted around my daughter. I want her to grow up having the same positive outlook that I’ve experienced in this community, eating healthy, exercising, having a strong body, and a strong positive mind. That’s why I started Family and Muscle fitness. That’s my dream. I hope to be able to influence her, her friends, and eventually other kids in the community; I want to show them how exercise can be a positive influence on their lives.
Photo: Clarence Lomax
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Jonathon Henry
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Twelvekc.com
Jozzi Rainey Student Zumba Instructor Pursuing a degree in Business and Fashion Favorite Exercise/ Machine: Zumba
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Tamara Diamond
Fashion connoisseur, Regional Retail Consultant & Manager, Old Navy Inc.
By Tony Van Trece
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PEOPLE
ADDICTED TO RETAIL XII : Tell me how you got started in fashion, in retail fashion? TD: Growing up, I always had a passion for it. I would draw little outfits or try to design houses, interior/exterior, anything like that, so it was just an innate ability within me, and I would say passed down from my mother who has the drive to design as an interior decorator and things like that. XII : Wow. That’s beautiful... So as far as trends, what's in for the summer right now? TD: Dolphin Hems. XII : What's that? Can you elaborate on that? TD: Well, first let me say that trends in fashion come full circle, so there's really nothing that’s new. So when I say Dolphin Hem, it’s really old. You think back to like the late 70's early 80's, you would think of the lady in skates, who would wear the little short, shorts that swoop up on the side, which is the Dolphin Hem. XII: I wanna see some of those myself. TD: Yeah, Dolphin Shorts, they swoop up and things like that (laughter). XII: So what about men? What are men wearing? TD: Umm, men fashion is more versatile now than ever. XII : Is there more versatility for men than for women now? TD: I think it’s one of the biggest changes you see now in fashion. Women, I mean we change, but things kinda stay the same. For men, it’s a little different, with the skinny jean look, and dress pants that are kinda short and… XII: Do you like the skinny jeans look? TD: No, not particularly on someone I'm dating but you know, for (Continued on page 50)
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FEATURE YOUTH
“Are you sure it’s not too big?” I asked my boyfriend. “No it’s the perfect size.”
magazine
INK
BELIEFS OF
TOP SALES
By IMAN LOTT PHOTOS: RAYE JACKSON
PRODUCERS
The first documented professional tattoo artist in the USA was Martin Hildebrandt, a German immigrant who arrived in Boston, MA in 1846. Between 1861 and 1865, he tattooed soldiers on both sides in the American Civil War. I was 26 when I got my first tattoo. I was very - I mean very - afraid of needles and my boyfriend at the time seemed to easily convince me that getting a small tattoo would help me get over my fear. (I was so young and impressionable and dumb.) We went together to “Freaks on Broadway” and after spending several minutes looking over the different artists’ work, I decided that if I was going to permanently mark my body it was going to mean something to me. Settling on what I thought was a small design, I asked the artist to draw a sketch of my favorite flower, an orchid. Watching the tattoo needle being turned on made (Continued on page 43)
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Chontelle Campbell Credit Finance Loves the concept of art on skin “Can't talk slick to a can of grease�
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CREATE magazine
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THE
ARTIST
By LeAndrea Mack
Tattoos have long been a unique, artistic form of self-expression and individuality spanning centuries, cultures, and continents, including our own. Tattoo artist Diego Saenz Jr., 33 notes, “It is very easy to find many Kansas Citians with tattoos of everything from dainty butterflies to a full sleeve tattoo of a dragon. The culture here seems to have become more and more accepting of this art form and it eccentricity.” Saenz, who developed a love for the arts at a very young age, got his first tattoo at 14 and recalls, “I always sketched, drew and doodled. It was rare to find me without a sketch or drawing. When I look back on it now, it was inevitable that I would become an artist.” However, Diego confessed that he surprised even himself about eight years ago when he ordered the supplies on a whim and leapt into the tattoo industry.
The art, the beauty, the colors, I am in love with it all! ”
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(Continued from page 40)
my body tense up immediately but there was no turning back seeing as money had been exchanged and time spent on the design. “Are you sure it’s not too big?” I asked my boyfriend. “No, it’s the perfect size.” As the needle made contact, I think I blacked out from the pain but something else occurred. Almost simultaneously I became addicted to the sensation (and definitely got over my fear). I went back a second, third, and fourth time to expand the original orchid design to an orchid vine with vibrant and contrasting colors. I came to see myself as a canvas not requiring prior meditation on design but, instead,
“Tattooing is me. The art, the beauty, the colors, I am in love with it all!” Saenz says as he lights up in delight thinking about his craft. “My style can’t really be dubbed or defined but if I had to explain it, it’s innovative with respect to tradition.” Tattooing for about eight years, with over two years of professional work under his belt, Saenz’s skin art depicts the smoothness of a sketch or painting with the contours and thickness of the most coveted tattoos.
wanting the artist to freestyle.
It was surprising to learn that about 75% of his clients are women, who are very meticulous and particular about their tattoos. Saenz reveals that doing work on women has brought him a huge amount of success because their satisfaction brings both male and female referrals who aren’t just looking for a deal but are looking for a welldeveloped, long lasting, and detailed tattoo. Twelve Magazine asked Saenz, who is covered in tattoos and dermals (body piercings that go under the skin), how many tattoos he had, to which he replied, “If you can count them, you don’t have enough.”
“You don’t look like you would have a tattoo,” I’ve
Today Saenz can be found at Knobtown Tattoo off of 350 highway right here in Kansas City. Like any great artist, his mission is to be one of the best by remaining inventive, continuing to be humble, and ever evolving.
tattoos were found on women, denoting her
Since the initial visit to the tattoo parlor, I’ve added a hummingbird in honor of my Great Grandfather Hildre and plan to add two more in honor of my Great Grandmother Camile and most recently my Grandfather James. There is always a certain shock value to finding out I have such an expansive tattoo collection because for so long tattoos have been associated with a hard rebellious lifestyle.
been told on many occasions. In western culture, tattoos have transformed from being taboo to mainstream seemingly overnight but many North Americans don’t know or understand its evolution worldwide. In India, tattoos have been used as cultural symbols among many tribal populations, as well as the castebased Hindu population. In Egypt, the majority of
Nicole Parker Hairstylist/Make up Artist Recently moved back from Atlanta Tattoos by features artist Diego Saenz, Jr.
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Anthony Boyer Track Coach, William Woods University BA in Business, UMKC Aspiring philanthropist “I hate to lose more than I love to win� Favorite Exercise/Machine: Bench Least Favorite Exercise/Machine: Legs and squats
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(Continued from page 43)
status—such as marital or society position. They also used tattoos for healing, religion, and even as a form of punishment [Phoenix & Arabeth, 1998, "Secret History of Henna"].
Tattooing has been a part of Filipino life since the pre -Hispanic colonization of the Philippines Islands. There, it was considered a form of rank and accomplishment. Some even believed that tattoos held magical powers. Between 1720 and 1870, criminals in the Japanese culture were tattooed as a visible mark of punishment; this actually replaced having ears and noses removed. A criminal would often receive a single ring on their arm for each crime committed. Akin to the scarlet letter, this consequently marked a group of criminals and outcasts who could not integrate into mainstream society because of their obvious visible tattoos. The ostracism forced many deeper into the world of crime, ultimately forming the roots for the modern Japanese mafia, with which tattoos in Japan have almost become synonymous. In Samoa, the tradition of applying tattoos or “tatau” by hand has been unbroken for over two thousand years. Tools and techniques have changed little. The skill is often passed from father to son where each artist, or “tufuga”, learns the craft over many years of serving as his father's apprentice. The history of tattooing in Africa dates back thousands of years. The large diversity of tribes and people of Africa make it difficult to state all of the purposes of tattoos, however, tribal hierarchy, geographical location, spiritual protection, and rites of passage rank highly as reasons for tattooing throughout Africa's history. All manner of animals, plants, ancestry and spirits are represented, not only
through tattooing, but also through body-painting. In the United States during the late eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries, tattoos were as much about self-expression as they were about having a unique way to identify a sailor's body should he be lost at sea or imprisoned by the British navy. Using simple techniques and tools, tattoo artists in the early republic typically operated aboard ships using anything available as pigments which included gunpowder and even urine. Men marked their arms and hands with initials of themselves and loved ones, significant dates, symbols of the seafaring life, liberty poles, crucifixes, and other symbols.[www.commonplace.org “The Ink of History] Over the past three decades, Western tattooing has become a practice that has crossed social boundaries from “low” to “high” class and has become common among the general public. For many young Americans, the tattoo has taken on a distinctly different meaning than for previous generations. Tattoos have shifted from a form of defiance to a form of acceptable expression with resurging popularity in many parts of the world, particularly in Europe, Japan, and the Americas. The growth in the tattoo culture has ushered in new artists, many of whom have technical and fine arts training. This coupled with advancements in pigments and equipment, has led to an upgrade in the quality of tattoos being created. Recently I accompanied my younger brother to his first tattoo session and I’m going to tell you like I told him: “Yes it’s addictive. Yes it hurts. If you are going to get one, make sure you are okay with displaying something on yourself that lasts forever. Let it mean something.” And that’s all I have to say about that.
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Lindsey Hester Network Control Technician BS in Business Management and Computer Science “1 Corinthians 4:8� Favorite Exercise/Machine: Squats Least Favorite Exercise/Machine: Anything that has to do with arms
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FASHION twelvekc.com By LeAndrea Mack magazine
KISS & MAKEUP Tameka "Meek" Dickerson, MUA Photo: Raye Jackson
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Shanna Brown & Gina Victoria, MUAs
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PHOTOS: Andre Hayes Photography
Your time with a makeup artist is about more than an application of makeup it is a consultation that consists of determining colors, tools, and products that are just right for you.” hether it’s the “big day” or a very special day, when all eyes (and cameras) are on you, everyday cosmetics won’t cut it! You need studio make up and expert precision in order to produce flawless portraits. The do-it-yourself makeup approach should NOT apply to the big events in your life! Ten years ago, makeup artists were only in the budgets of celebrities and movie stars but now they are more affordable and more accessible than ever. What is the purpose of the makeup artist? Hiring a makeup artist can prove to be a terrific enhancement to your professional photographs and most photographers would agree that makeup applied by experts is a plus, from technical lighting perspectives to the overall look of the photos. Shanna Brown, a premiere makeup artist in Kansas city, recommends hiring makeup artists for weddings, gradua-
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tions, proms and homecomings. She also notes that hiring a makeup artist for smaller events like a “girl’s night out” or a dinner party are also good opportunities to try a fresh new look, experience high quality makeup and learn about application techniques. An artful eye can capture beauty and potential that had heretofore gone unnoticed. Makeup artists (or MUAs) are trained to look for the beauty in every woman and work with the features that are unique to each one. MUAs are also aware of the many factors that can affect your look and can help you address them. Skincare and makeup You may have your everyday makeup regimen down to a science and you may have watched YouTube videos, collecting plenty of tricks and tips for applying your makeup but for special events, especially when portraits are involved, hiring a pro is essential. (Continued on page 54)
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some it works, and for others it’s completely, ummm “out there”... But umm, when you get to a certain financial level you can do what you wanna do fashion-wise... and it doesn't matter what anybody thinks. You know what I mean? If you wanna be a trend setter, it wouldn't matter. XII: I agree. So how long have you personally been into fashion and setting your own trends whenever walking out the door? TD: I would say over 16 years, maybe even longer than that. I mean I've been around retail since high school. I mean I'm not gonna tell my age, but it was a long time ago. I worked at TJ Maxx during my senior year of high school. So I had a half day, would leave school, and go to work. Ever since then I've worked in retail fashion. Then, when I went off to college, I tinkered a little bit with Business Admin, but Mizzou had a program: Fashion Apparel, Marketing and Merchandising, which particularly appealed to me and so I went in that direction, instead of the typical business degree.
‘cause ultimately it’s all about the customer, servicing the customer, and making money.
XII: That sounds like an interesting program to study as far fashion goes. So what has that led you to now? And where do you want to go from here? From where you are now, where do wanna go? TD: Well basically the Fashion Apparel/Marketing and Merchandising degree led me to landing a sales associate position with Sears Inc. in the Columbia, MO store, and from there I was blessed with supportive people and emerging opportunities. The store manager told me ‘if you work for me, I will work for you’. And from there, my career in fashion retail took off. So I learned the ins and outs of retail sales and marketing, became a trainer,… XII: I know. You trained me! TD: This was Sears in Columbia, and more like entry...entry level, I was more along the lines of management about the time we met. I was put into a regional training program. From there I was taught the business, landed a management position with the Sears that was formerly on Bannister Rd... I spent a lot of time with Sears Roebuck, 15 years, I believe, until I transitioned to Old Navy/Gap Inc. So Sears was the foundation, but Old Navy cultivated me on how to really run the retail apparel business in a big department store. From the customer's perspective to average transactions, to average unit and retail operating cost, and trying to figure out daily marketing or promotion initiatives. This also includes how to impact those various business levers and influence the end result of con-
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stant and progressive sales, which is what you want. XII: So Do you have any pet peeves working in retail or with Gap Inc. or any other retailers? TD: I wouldn’t say there are pet peeves from working with Gap Inc. It’s an opportunity because they're such a young company. Think of Sears that's been around for over 80 years. Gap, Inc. has been around for about 45 years and Old Navy (one of its brands) just celebrated its 20 year anniversary, to put things in perspective. There is an awful lot of change in communication that you receive coming from the top, down, to gain an understanding of the field. Businesses have to be able adjust midstream. It’s good for a company to be flexible and adaptable to adjust to the changing needs of the customer and the business quickly when necessary. For some of the retail companies that have been around for a long time, it would take painstaking efforts to make the needed adjustments and react to market needs, as rapidly as Gap Inc. could. XII: I see. Do you think as a Black woman, that your fashion retail experience at Gap Inc., Old Navy, and Sears, etc., is any different than any other color, race, or creed you've worked with? TD: No. And I don't feel that there would be. You know every company has its own culture, their own beliefs and you're going to have different kinds of people that make up any business. So no, I don't feel like there would be any difference from one retail department store to the next, ‘cause ultimately it’s all about the customer, servicing the customer, and making money.
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XII: And last but not least, where would you like to see fashion go just in your eyes and astute opinion? Like where do you see fashion as far as the emergence of Black designers and department stores? TD: What I would like to see is just more of a global acceptance of designers from every race and culture. Then, it’s about quality. You know, I think Kanye said it the best. When you think about the designers, you really want to reach a certain level, to be that of a Ralph Lauren or Yves Saint Laurent. So if there was any level I would want us to reach, it’s that high-end level. XII: Thank you Tamara Diamond for your time and sagacious insights.
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Nina Tyler, MUA
Nina Tyler, another Midwest MUA says that, “…a good make-up artist is just as knowledgeable about skincare and provides her clients with information about how to properly remove makeup. She offers suggestions of products that may work better with their specific problem areas.” Twelve Magazine interviewed several makeup artists asking the question, “What are the most important cosmetic products?” and to our surprise, we learned that it wasn’t a hot red lipstick or a waterproof mascara (which was still near the top of their lists) but it was a good moisturizer that would both hydrate and protect the face. “Your time with a makeup artist is about more than an application of makeup.” says Gina Victoria, “[With a quality MUA] it is a consultation that consists of determining colors, tools, and products that are just right for you.” Blogger and MUA Tameka “Meek” Dickerson of Kansas City explains that you should walk away from your MUA session with some education. She has created a blog that chronicles different elements of style and beauty products and suggestions to help you achieve your look and emphasizes the importance of skincare throughout her site. Check out her mobile makeup counter at Meeksmobilemakeupcounter.blogspot.com. With events like Urban Fashion Week, KC Fashion Week, Beauty and Bowties and a host of fashion forward events, Kansas City has developed a demand for highly skilled local and accessible makeup artists. Shanna Brown, MUA from Kansas City, says that in addition to weddings, proms/homecoming, and fashions shows, she has also been hired for a range of requests such as: teaching sessions, competitions (pageants, talent
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and fitness), special effects for Halloween, video shoots, women’s seminars, and drag showcases. So at the very least, for the important events in your life, avoid the stress of makeup products and applications and leave it to the pros like Shanna Brown, Nina Tyler, Tameka “Meek” Dickerson and Gina Victoria (Gunn) to make your face flawless.
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