Tru / Issue 15

T

Cast: cer(W anca don), Mich ning mor,d mind neces Zimm Florid “Fru based cheal a tran 2008, and o they w and m M car G Osca intera Ry strug girlfr who Wh other way,b borho do ab “Frui other Amer moun their movi

TRU MOVIE REVIEW WITH.....

:Micheal B. Jordan(Oscar Grant),Melonie Diaz(Sophina),Octavia SpenWanda),Ariana Neal(Tatiana),Marjorie Shears(Grandma Bonnie),BiRodriguez III(Vanessa),Keenan Coogler(Cato),Trestin George(Bran,Ahna O’Reilly(Katie),Joey Oglesby(Cale),Micheal James(Carlos),Chad heal Murray(Officer Ingram),Kevin Durand(Officer Caruso).(R)Runtime:90 minutes.Director:Ryan Coogler.Tender,tense,fragile,weary,hudread,regret,anger all these words describe “Fruitvale Station”.Keep in d,much of Ryan Coogler’s “Fruitvale Station”is not an easy watch,but a ssary watch.The timing of the film’s release comes on the heels of George merman’s “not guilty”verdict for killing Trayvon Martin in Sanford,da,leaving Black America reeling. uitvale Station”is Ryan Coogler’s wonderful directional debut which is d on a true story of a 22-year old African American,Oscar Grant(Mil B. Jordan,” The Wire”,”Friday Night Lights[“Television]),fatally shot by nsit police officer on a transit train station platform on New Year’s Eve ,after a celebration of Oscar Grant,his girlfriend Sophia(Melonie Diaz) other friends went awry when an inmate with a beef with Grant while were both in San Quentin prison see him on the train melees ensue.

Melonie Diaz plays the girlfriend to Michael B. Jordan’s character OsGrant ,a poignant performance by her.We see tender moments between ar and his young daughter Tatiana(Ariana Neal)and some ebb and flow action between him and his mother, Wanda(Octavia Spencer). yan Coogler makes Oscar Grant neither a saint nor evil incarnate:a ggling Black man trying to balance his inner demons,connect with his riend and daughter,sells marijuana to make up for lose of lose of job didn’t deserve to die. hat’s more,young Black males--in particular--are at risk far more any r single group in the U.S.Black males from 15 to 34 register ,in no small both victims and perpetrators by peers,police and even by “neighood watchmen”.The question arises:what are we as a society going to bout the carnage in Black America?It’s one thing to acclaim Coogler’s itvale Station”then go home and forget the urgency of the matter it’s anr to at least make a considerable effort to curb the carnage.I urge African ricans to step up to the plate in order to preclude or greatly curtail the nting lose of life.White Americans need to abandon their apathy to and cynicism of Black America’s “Oscar Grants” and “Trayvon Martins”. To iegoers:A must see.****1/2 out of 5

TRU MAGAZINE MOVIE CRITIC HOWARD MCQUITTER

On Blast

with ‘

Nothing seems impossible for southern radio host/rapper/activist anthologies published by the National Book Foundation.

In spite of his accomplishments Palmetto say’s that still didn’t stop of which escalated into what Palmetto insists was an “unprovoked chase on You tube. He goes on to tell Tru. that the police didn’t no and moved to Atlanta, GA.

Once in Atlanta he started a radio show called features an impressive roster of celebrity gues a dream to take the world by storm as a media justice for Trayvon Martin or raising awarene

Tru: How did you get into the game? Who are Palmetto: Depends on which “game” you mea lock bags and dirty handguns when I became rapping at 15. The radio game- I’ve been doin That was one of the names I was called cause , it- what I used to be the “go to guy” for. Last n front-lines of the Arts. I am an activist and art say and choose to communicate with, are prof than I imagined and keeps growing. I guess if

Tru: What is it that inspires you to keep doing Palmetto: People have told me I helped them for that to happen I need the world to change thing but “just” These and other things must c ue to do so.

Tru: Tell us what your “movement” is all abou Palmetto: 2RAW4TV is the radio show. “TUR like the Internet and interactive media) is so o in that. I think for a progressive society we ne nated books to school age children. In the nea problems minus the political red tape. In a nu and all that-(laughing) but less is better some

Tru: Thanks for that shameless plug Pal! (laug Palmetto: Absolute power corrupts absolutely current way of enforcing “laws” is barbaric an of legality and you can wash your hands of an not be solved civilly with the people

Tru: Powerful statement! I feel that. How do y Palmetto: Well at this current moment, as I am

‘Hot’ Lanta’s’...

Palmetto Star

Palmetto Star. An activist who is heavily influenced by music, has a popular radio show in Atlant and even has two

p the police from profiling him. After a series of near fatal incidents with police from Columbia, South Carolina, one d high-speed chase through the city” charges were against him were dropped when fellow advocates placed the police ot like it, so they started following him around the city and showing up at his shows. They end result? He left the city

d 2RAW4TV. With over 100,000 listeners 2RAW4TV is proving to be much more than a radio show, it’s a movement! His show sts from all backgrounds and it continues to grow wildly in popularity. With three mixtapes under his belt and armed with a dream a and hip-hop power house, it would seem that he’s unstoppable. Whether leading a ,worldwide hunger strike in the name of ess on his popular blog talk radio show Palmetto Star is clearly, a man on a mission.

e you? an- I was in the street life heavy (when I was younger and MOST DEFINITELY not an advocate of it) but I have retired the zipe awakened, saved, enlightened. Art- I have always been a writer- I am pretty well published-I’ve been a writer all my life. I started ng that for almost 3 years now. Palmetto Star is a name I got in the streets (My government name is unique as well, Tevor Ford). ,Palmetto, is the our state (SC) tree (its even on the flag of SC) and “trees”, weed, marijuana, Mary Jane whatever you want to call name Star cause I always have been in the public eye - whether for rapping, poetry, activism, writing, I have always been on the tist. I can talk to anyone on any level, whether it be politician, worker bee, or a street person. I don’t say a lot but the words I do found. I started 2RAW4TV as a platform to vent about the police and other injustice- it has turned to something so much bigger f you were going to sum me up in one word it would be “Blessed”

g what you do? out. That I made them see clearer and changed their lives. That is what keeps me going. I want to have kids one day- but in order e. Poverty is a false state- it doesn’t have to be. The “Justice” system, as we have seen blatantly with the Trayon Martin case, is anychange- and guess what? I’m willing to take a stand and RISK IT ALL to change it. I already have made a change and I will contin-

ut?

RN OFF YOUR TV” is the movement. In order for us to make the changes we need to make the TV needs to go off. See TV (unone sided- all is does is tell you what to think, what to buy, what to wear, what to say- all without you being able to have any input eed to stop over indulging in the TV. One of the things that we have been able to do in the short term to combat that is give doar future we need to have a TURN OFF YOUR TV day where we can all talk- without the distraction of TV and solve some of our utshell lessening TV watching will help that- Of course I still want people to watch the good programs out there like “Bo$$ Ladies” etimes

ghing) In your past you’ve had some “incidents/issues” with the law. Do you feel that they abuse their power? y! The gun is the symbol of absolute power and it has corrupted many officers and potentially ALL of law enforcement. I think our nd needs to be scrapped completely. Now it is to the point where you just have to claim that you are doing something in the name ny wrong doing. That is why Trayvon Martin is dead and his killer is free. We must stop this madness now or I PROMISE it will

you intend to use your status and celebrity in the industry to make a change for the better? m speaking to you I have not eaten ANY food in a week. I am calling on an international hunger strike in the pursuit of justice

for Trayvon Martin. This is unlike any case we have seen, on a grand scale, since the 50’s or 60’s where a person is able to start a racially motivated fight with a child- kill them- and get off scott free. We are in very very dangerous territory here. I recently went to Sanford, Florida where this whole event happened- its like stepping back into the 60’s when you go there. Whites and Blacks have been battling there since the 1900’s in fact the name of the town was originally Goldsboro but the local white power structure STOLE the land (and all this is documented) and then called it Sanford. I am about unifying all people and if we let this injustice ride... all justice will be called into question. I do have people worldwide joining me in this hunger strike. I am willing to never eat again if it means justice for all. So that is one example I am using my “celebrity” status. I just wish to connect with everyone on this planet at least once- then we will have some change. Hopefully, by grace, I will survive to see this article printed.

Tru: A tremendous and courageous act on your behalf, we applaud that effort. It seems that there aren’t enough ‘conscious’ people like you making a statement when they can. But there are a few. Who do you admire out here doin’ it today and why?

Palmetto: I like Obama. He represents a change that we need even if he himself feels like his hand are tied to make it. I don’t judge him by his politics- it has ALWAYS been up to the people to make the real changes. Other than him I like JayZ, Charlamange tha God, T.I. i think all these people are voices in the community and really strive to change things. I am number 1 though- not even an ego thing but I think if you are going to be a real leader you must be willing to lay your life down for the people- I don’t see anyone that- last person living that has done that is Assata Shakur.

Tru: If you could change anything about the entertainment industry what would it be?

Palmetto: These people that think they are the majors- as in Major record companies, Major media outlets (that own all the channels) they need to wiped out. They are still holding on to some power and the way they are doing so is very sick. The INDEPENDENT artist must rise. So in a nutshell- take out all the old power Tru: Where do you go from here?

Palmetto: Well I strive to work with different media outlets like Tru. and others and create a TRUE (forgive the pun) network for the people. You see we are given this model of competition. This idea that we are supposed to be against each other to take viewers, listeners, etc. While the major people don’t do that. They stand unified. That’s why you have the most gas stations regardless of name owned by Havoline. Most TV channels are owned by Viacom. Let’s the reasonable people work together to create a network FOR the people BY the people... Corporations are considered to be “people” by the law right? That tells you right there what’s going on.

Tru: What is the one thing that you would like to leave our readers knowing about Palmetto?

Palmetto: That I stand for CHANGE. Real Change. Raw Change. TRU change. That is what I want people to know about me. That I stand for something. I stand for the difference. You see the change we want starts with ourselves but we must be willing to make it!

For more on Palmetto Star you can find him online at: Twitter: @Palmetto_Star, Instagram: @Palmetto_Star, blogtalkradio. com/2RAW4TV and TwoRawFourTV.com

The Enjoy Life George Aja Public speaker, Author, President of Enjoy life movement, LLC george.aja.564@facebook.com

Throughout history there have been those who have embodied the very concept of a dynasty, so much so that their lives fill our history pages, our video files and the stories we tell or should tell our children. The word dynasty is defined this way:

tion to the next?

Valu

Securing the future

erful than the things we verbally teach. Dare to live by your values and Let’s review some of the great Amer- see the long term returns you will ican dynasties; In politics we have see in your greatest investment, your the Jacksons, Meeks, Bush’s and children. You will find that each child Kennedy’s who has been a strong in- can become a pillar that you will help fluence in politics and social reform. erect that will support an organization that has no limits.

In the arena of sports we think in Teach your values: “A powerful group or family terms of Archie Manning and his It is important to continthat maintains its position for a son Peyton Manning who currently ually speak your values. considerable time” plays for the Indiana Colts. We also The book of Proverbs think about John Stallworth a pro tells us that there is Think about that definition for Football Hall of Fame wide receiver. POWER in the words a moment and ask yourself, do In the business arena we think of we speak. There are you want your children mainfamilies like the DeVoss family words that produce life taining your current position or owners of the quick star corporaand words that produce do you want them to do better tion. Who have helped countless of death. We must underthan you? If the later is the case thousands in fulfilling their dreams stand that words are like then my advice to you is, you and providing quality services and seeds and our children must change first. If you are to products for the last 50 years. are like fertile ground change you must change your In the spiritual arena we all think that we have the responvalues. This is critical to under- of Dr. Billy Graham and His son sibility of farming. If stand, you see what you value is Franklin Graham who have been you do not like what you where you will spend your time. changing lives all around the world. have been harvesting If how you’re spending your If one would sit and talk with these you might want to change the type of time is not producing the things men one would find, there are some seeds you have planting! you hoped for it’s time to check universal principles that they exerWe should also look for consistent your foundation. Remember cised in their lives. Let’s review and opportunities throughout the daily your foundation is your values. consider some of these principles as walk of life to teach them. Life is full The size of your foundation they relate to building a dynasty. of situations that one could apply to determines how large you can Live by your values: teach life lessons that are based on build. So what is it going to be? The greatest thing one could ever the values we espouse to. It’s time for A foundation only big enough do is live by the values they believe us to start opening our mouths at the for an outhouse or one fitting in. By doing this they will find that right times, for the right reasons and for a great estate that can be the power of what is caught by the with the right seeds. Get out there handed down from one genera- example of their lives is more pow- and work your fields!

Thin One of t society this min “we are or “he w must un in the th

in his or concept down an Think p ment an earth ho your ch around about w it? Will money y Will all

e Movement

ues

go too and visit or will you leave them a legacy to continue as they build a dynasty on this earth that best reflects the creator’s original intent for creation?

Many people speak of generational curses but it is time we start evidencing through nk Transgenerational: our lives and the lives of our children the greatest obstacles we have in our Generational blessings! Each generation today is selfishness. One example of should be getting wiser, wealthier and ndset is the bumper sticker that reads increasing more than the previous generaspending our children’s inheritance” tions that preceded them. who dies with the most toys wins”. We So think past yourself and begin to chart nderstand that success is not measured a new course, one that will secure a better hings that one was able to accumulate future for your children and theirs. It’s up to you, step up to the challenge.

Help your children discover their gifts.

Take a look at your children and dare to see the uniqueness that each one possess.

Not one of them is the same, their personalities, viewpoints, dreams and capabilities are distinct. It is our responsibility to help them discover and cultivate and mature their gifts. We should do this in such a way that we do not mold them into what we think they should do but rather help them to discern the things they love and what they are good at so that one day they can be great at it. All you have to do is point them in the right direction and be there when they need you. This can be accomplished by five simple actions: r her lifetime but rather what values, 1)Love them for who they are ts and principles you have handed 2)Never compare them to someone else nd instilled into your children.

3)Have them take a personality test past yourself and your present mo4)Put the right information before them ie; nd consider that after you leave this books, tapes and seminars ow will your name be carried on by 5)Learn how to become their greatest cheerhildren. Will they be ones who gather leaders when they succeed and the best coach a casket arguing with their siblings who inherited what and the fairness of when they’re in a tough situation and the best friend when they fail. they be children who take whatever Many parents without realizing are advisyou leave them and quickly spend it? ing their children into the same trap they you leave them be just a gravesite to

of your dynasty

are presently in. For the love of your children and their future, be brave enough to change yours.

Feed their strengths.

Once you have discovered their strengths you need to feed them or they will starve. Think for a moment how many inventions, ideas, cures for diseases, art, music and the list could go on and on that were never realized because no one ever took the time to feed those raw natural strengths. This can be accomplished by doing four simple things: As much as you can, assign them to things that their strengths can accommodate. Do this from an early age and you will build a champion.

Connect them to information that feeds their strength. You must limit the amount of useless time we allow our children to spend in front of the television. Use it as a tool to help them mature and not a weapon against their very soul.

Connect to relationships that currently are more advanced in the same given strength. The concept of a mentor enters here, a very powerful dynamic when stewarded wisely.

Create a spot for them that possess significance.

Many parents today cannot wait until the day their children become of age so that they can get rid of them. Their lies this troubling mentality that looks at children as a nuisance rather than a God given responsibility. When we take on this mind set we devalue

what God himself greatly values.

As you plan your future think about how it is that your children can actually play a part one day in helping you to fulfill your own God given destiny.

I have four wonderful children. Jared who is 25 is very creative and gifted musically he has a strong interest in media and graphics. He is now the proud owner of A-Town productions located in Austin Texas. Because of this I’ve invested thousands of dollars into equipment that would aid him and also aid our other business ventures.

Ashley Victoria my 23 year old daughter is very pragmatic, a great student and very popular. She has a natural wit about her and is strong administratively. Ashley recently graduated from Texas Tech with a degree in business and was recently married. I can already see where she could fit in and strengthen any organization.

Our third born is 19 years old, is a very compassionate person and is currently enrolled at I.T.T. Judson Bishop my 11 year old is a very strong personality and possess natural leadership ability I look forward to the years to come.

The point is I am building an organization to include my children. This does not mean that they are trapped or should feel forced to work for themselves within our family ventures. I desire to see them excel in anything they so choose to do. So I suggest that you build big enough that you have to hire somebody. And if you have to hire somebody, then why not your children?

Allow me to introduce to a new word for some of you, it is nepotism. Nepotism is defined as favoritism based on kinship. So do yourself and your children a favor, RAISE them to be leaders, RAISE them to be champions in this life!

Young men and women who anybody and any organization would benefit by their hiring.

Allow them the freedom to fail- you did!

It is imperative that we create a climate where our children can fail. That is not to say we create an environment where failure is cultivated, but rather where children are encouraged to takes steps of faith headed in the direction of their destiny.

Think for a moment of how many failures you have had yourself; I know you need more than a moment. Through the years I have discovered that failure is nothing more than a sign post in life that is revealing areas of needed improvement. On my personal journey I have found I have gained just as much from my failures as I have from my successes.

I believe that showing our children how to fail forward is very important. There will be times when they suffer a defeat; we must show them how not to stay down but to be willing to stand up again and make another attempt more wisely!

This is critical in raising winners and not quitters. Allow me to share with a simple procedure when having faced defeat: Take full responsibility Take inventory of how bad the damage is Assess what can be salvaged Disconnect from the emotional drama Seek counsel from a trusted mentor or friend Develop a strategy for a comeback plan Set a starting date and a finishing date Believe that if “God is for you who can be against you” Get away from critiques (get new friends if you have to) Get up and get going! You’re going to make it this time!

I invite you to dare to believe that your children will thrive when faced with adversity and so can you. Build a dynasty that will last beyond you and affect people you will never meet. Learn how to use failure to your advantage and as you learn how to use the keys that are found within this book you will see your failures decrease and your success increase.

You my friend are a winner and your best days are ahead of you. Get use to being on the winning side!

Tru. International Affairs

Is Wara Jasha th P

unta rock or Belizean punta is a form of the traditional punta rhythm of the Garifuna people of Honduras, Belize, and Guatemala. Although most artist and bands are exclusively Garifuna, songs are usually in Kriol or Garifuna and rarely in Spanish, or English.

Punta, as a genre, is the music of the Garifuna people who came from Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and Dominica exiled by the British into Roatan, Bay Islands, Honduras.

Garifuna then spread out to Nicaragua, Guatemala, and Belize.

While this style is unique, calypso and soca have had slight influences on it. Like calypso and soca, Belizean punta was used for both social commentary and risquĂŠ humor, though the initial wave of punta acts eschewed the former.

Wara Jasha is an artist with multiple talents, and while his fans consider him to be the next King of Punta Rock and Caribbean music, but he considers himself just another collaborator whose working on developing the music to help take it to the next level worldwide! He feels that with everyone helping each other Punta Rock has the potential to go all the way to the Top !

he next KING of Punta Rock Music?

THE INTERVIEW

Tru: You are a world music recording artist and won the 2011 Punta Artist of the Year, Wara, How did you initially get into the music game?

WWJ :I got into music when I was 10 years old singing Reggae in Belize. Iv’e recorded some music in Livingston and Labuga, back in the day when Reggae was in Style in 1989.

Tru: What is Punta Rock? Can you define that genre’ for our readers?

WWJ: Punta Rock is A Garifuna music original. I started singing Punta Rock because I grew up in labuga Livingston in a Garifuna Community where Punta Rock Music is played everyday. We play it Live with drums,maracas,turtle shells. And.more Tru: As a world traveler where is your favorite place to record & work?

WWJ :My favorite place to record? Well, I have a few studios in New York, Connecticut, and in New jersey, but my favorite? Hmmm... I guess all of them!

Tru: You’ve been to so many beautiful countries, but which would you say is your favorite city to live in in the United States ,and why?

WWJ: New York, because it’s always a hype city. Everyday is on and active.

Tru: We know that you have worked with some big names in the industry, who has been your favorite celeb to work with and tell us what you liked best about that project?

WWJ: I work with a few big names in the music industry. And one of the ones I really appreciate and feel good working with is Aurelio Martinez, the Ambassador of the Garifuna Music. A very humble artist and I have learned a lot from him. This is a guy that travels all over the world showing the culture. I feel blessed on that.

Tru: The music industry has gone through some changes throughout the years, would you say that those changes have IMPROVED the industry or weakened it? What would you change if you could?

WWJ: The industry yes has changed. And What I will do is keep the originality on everything that gets done. And yes this is the evolution off a new era.

And music is the source of communication...without Borders.

Tru: What projects do you have coming up and how can we get connected and keep up with you?

WWJ :Yes, new projects are coming, new flows and everyone can look for me at youtube.com.wara wara jashamusic.com.

We’re looking for more great things to come from Wara Wara, keep your eye on this smooth operator!

Keith V. Murphy Author, Motivational speaker and Relationship Counselor Contact: www.keithvmurphy.com or itskvm@facebook.com

Kickin it with Keith, the Relationship Doctor DATING THE WRONG PERSON

What does it mean that you

keep dating the wrong people? It could be time to stop dating for a while. (While you’re at it, change that word dating!!! You are going out, going on outings with someone. Dates are on calendars!)

There is something called the law of attraction. You are the common denominator on these bad outings, you are the one constant. You need to do some self-evaluation to see what in your spirit or behavior is attracting the opposite of what you desire. It’s easy to blame the other person. Practice introspection until you receive revelation.

Real maturity comes when you look inside to see what’s really going on with you. Are you appearing desperate, lonely, or sexually frustrated? You have to be honest with yourself. This is a skill you will need when you get married, so you might as well get started now.

This column is to edify, enlighten and educate and pray for a breakthrough in your relationship goals and intentions. Not to chastise, criticize and make anyone feel guilty. If the shoe fits, change shoes! As someone said, more than once, (and so have I) “plant your seed.” It will either take root or it won’t. (Somebody-

willgetthisinabout2- 3days.) Now if you’re not serious about marriage, a successful marriage, then keep it movin’ -I’m just sayin’.

Relationships are not hard to have, people are just too hard on Relationships, and don't Know how to “Let It Flow” and develop into what it could, and should grow into!

Finding that “Right One” is not all that hard. What's hard to do is look at self and adjust Who You Are to have that relationship you need or want! And stop looking at the “wrong” in others, because there is some “wrong” in ALL of us. Oh, yes there is! Adjust and straighten that out first, and experience The Real Enjoyment of a Successful Relationship WITH Someone Else!!!

I’ve said this before and I’m SAYING IT AGAIN! Before you get involved and make a commitment to someone, don't let lust, pity, desperation, immaturity, ignorance, pressure from others or a low self-esteem make you blind to warning signs. Keep your eyes open, and don't fool yourself that you can change someone or that what you see as faults isn't really that important. (SMH) Pay attention to the Red Flags....! (Now THAT is a whole ‘nother subject we

will get into another time. D.A.T.E. Determine And Teach Each other.

Open your heart to new beginnings and find the love you deserve with using new criteria in your selection process! Are you making the right decisions? Are you pursuing your perfect path? Are you making good choices? The answer is NO, if you’re not in a Compatible, Committed, Companionship and want to be!

The results of the things we do only change when the thought process that occurs before we do things changes. Thought change. Process change. Result change.

I have a confession to make. Well maybe it’s not a confession in the traditional sense. I mean it’s not a confession in the Ten Commandments-type of confession, the kind where you seek repentance. It’s really not a confession at all. It’s more of a declaration, a coming out of sorts, something to celebrate and be proud of. In fact, it’s a bold announcement that could change the world. I’m a mama’s boy. Always have been.

Always will be. There, I've said it and let me be the first to say that ain’t nothing wrong with being a mama’s boy. I used to get rattled every time a woman would say to me: “I can tell you’re a mama’s boy.

Aren't you? Aren't you?” shaking her head in disgust, raising her eyebrows, cutting her beady little eyes right through me. “And you want the woman you marry to be just like your mama.” “Why you got to go there? Huh?” I would answer defensively. “Naw, I ain’t no mama’s boy. Nope. You’re kidding, right?

Mama’s boy? By no means. Absolutely not. Oh no, not me!”

I am not the only one who has run

from the label. All men have struggled with the same question, and all women have taken delight in posing it and seeking the subsequent paralyzing effect it has on us, like a deer frozen by the headlights of an oncoming truck. We have fought this assault on the nature of our relationship with our mamas, even though we know in reality it’s impossible not to be a mama’s boy. The first person we knew was mama. The first person we kissed was mama. The first person we shared a laugh with was mama. The first person we told a secret to was mama. The only person that has always been there for us was mama.

The only person, without hesitation, would sacrifice personal hopes and dreams for us was mama.

Mama has been a father and a mother, a sister, a brother and a best friend to us, a person who always raised us with the best of care and compassion far beyond her job description. But instead of saying, “Yeah, I’m a mama’s boy and proud of it”, like a woman would say if she was called a “daddy’s girl”, men have let the negative connotation associated with the term “mama’s boy” manifest itself and snowball out of control.

As we near the end of what has been called “The Decade of The Woman” –a time when women have taken pride in becoming less and less like mama (even the first lady proclaimed that she was not going to be sitting at home, baking cookies and standing by her man)— frankly, I’m convinced that it’s too late for mere mortal men to fight back. So, I have decided to single-handedly take on the challenge myself. Starting today, I will

become the self-anointed Super Mama’s Boy. I will be easy to spot.

I’ll be the guy with the “S” on his chest and the “MB” on his back (cross-stitched by none other than my mama, of course) I will be the spokesperson for all mama’s boys, except for the one’s pushing 40 and still living with mama and not paying rent. To you guys, I say “GET OUT OF MAMA’S HOUSE! You’re giving us a bad name!” But for all other self-respecting mama’s boys, I will take it upon myself every time and anywhere the question “You’re a mama’s boy, aren’t you?

Aren’t you? I suppose my mission is twofold: to be the protector of the sacred mother/son bond, and to be the defender of a man’s right to want the woman in his life to be like his mother. I will arm myself with photos and a television set playing soft music and showing such scenes as mama changing her son’s diaper, playing peek-a-boo with him, rocking him to sleep, dressing him for church, dropping him off at basketball practice, sitting in the front row at his first school play, hugging him as he goes off to college, and cooking his favorite meal, her famous fried chicken. I realize it’s not going to be an easy battle. In fact, there may be a few casualties, and a few people could get hurt. And it could get ugly, especially when we reminisce about the times when mama disciplined her son, always prefacing it with, “This is going to hurt me than it hurts you.” But I am sure this stroll down memory lane will bring any woman to her senses and give every man the courage he needs to stand up for truth, justice and mama’s boys everywhere. And along the way, I will also defend a man’s right to want a woman to be

g n i t a D e h T

there when he needs a hug, be there when he needs encouragement, be there when he needs advice, be there to brag about his achievements and downplay his disappointments— just like mama. I won’t rest until good triumphs over evil. I won’t rest until every woman considers mama a goal to shoot for, not an obstacle to overcome or a land mine to avoid. I won’t rest until every woman stops faulting men for growing up with the perfect woman and wanting to grow old with the perfect woman. My mission will not be complete until every young boy dreams about becoming Super Mama’s Boy and every woman concludes that being a mama’s boy is not so bad after all.

Fake people become Real when they decide to be Honest with themselves and God (first). THIS Talk is for Real People so fake people will become defensive and uncomfortable with this kind of dialogue. THIS… is Real Talk! The guilty, will be offended. The wondering will be enlightened. The humble will acknowledge.

The forgiving will expand their boundaries for successful future relationships. The responsible will mature. The wise will learn from the mistakes of others. The "smart" will apply this at least in principle, to themselves. The cynical will glean nothing as they c ling to their obstinacy.

Okay, I am DONE here. DONE&DONE! See you next month, if you’re lucky! (Droppin’ the mic AGAIN!) ~ KICKIN’ IT WITH KEITH

e m a G

FLO

‘The Bad Girls Club’ g

Florina “Flo” Kaja, formally of ‘The Ba Well, here’s the deal…

For starters; Flo Kaja is working with a the networks as soon as project sizzle Flo, and the other, “Bo$$ Ladies.” Both ets” and other familiar faces from the

Let’s be real, Flo’s versatility, her exotic have her on everybody’s radar. You can gets in her way!

Flo has also been extremely b huge names in both music an awaiting the return of the Ba that news on ya, as soon as T in full effect!

Team Flo has shared that due to Flo has decided that it’s time that she b ternet. On Meth? Come on now! N from her photo shoot taken just YE taken “whenever ago” or on a day w

with her wearing no make up, only lip gloss, t and we can name a few celebs who don’t look

So lets go ahead and cut to the chase, some re ment, which did in fact take place. But,let’s rem even guilty and then miraculously proven to b one! But, based upon the fact that her case is s passing any judgement. I mean honestly, mos before we know all of the TRU facts involved

O

goes ON THE RECORD w/Tru. about pending legal drama!

ad Girls Club’ goes ON THE RECORD with Tru. Entertainment Magazine about her pending legal drama!

a new independent production company, Tru. Image Group on two reality show concepts which will be shopped to reels are completed this fall/winter. One of the shows is called “Zero to 60″ , totally appropriate for a dynamo like h concepts feature celebrities from the music and T.V. industry, some powerful business women with “deep pockworld of reality T.V. Sounds like pure dopeness is OFFICIALLY headed “back” to the world of reality T.V.

c beauty, her business savvy and enormous talent for commanding attention along with her flair for “Keepin it Tru” n best believe that the remainder of 2013 and into 2014 will be on tilt with Flo going ham out here on anybody who

busy over the past several days in meetings over a top secret tour she’s been asked to participate in with some pretty nd entertainment. The exciting details of her pending projects have the streets buzzing and her fans anxiously ad Girl turned- “Good Girl”, WE know you want it ! And,Tru. Fam you can best believe that we’ll be first to drop Team Flo gives us the go ahead. We’ve been told that her master plan of transition from ‘Bad Girl’ to ‘Good Girl’ is

o’s concern for her fans over gossip, speculation and rumors circulating around recent events involving the law, Flo break her silence regarding some false allegations and made up stories that have been floating around on the InNobody does Meth and looks as HOT as she does!! Just sayin. Check this out…we’ve obtained exclusive pics of Flo ESTERDAY, and they look nothing like the crappy images that have been circulating the web, which, were probably when her acne was goin’ berserk! Our exclusive pics are 24 hours old AND we’ve even published a RAW head-shot

to show you what Flo actually does look like today. You be the judge of how she looks. We publish lots of photos as good as Flo looks on her worst day.

ecent news reports have addressed the incident regarding her encounter last week with the Tenafly police departmember to keep in mind that in the United States all people are still innocent until proven guilty. And- some are be innocent (as was the case with that George Zimmerman character), we still can’t wrap our minds around that still pending in a court of law we’re respecting her right to privacy and to a fair/unbiased hearing, before we go st of America extended that courtesy for the guy who actually DID commit murder so, let’s not rush to judgement here-we’re just sayin.

What we will tell you is that we sat down with Flo this weekend and had a very candid conversation with her about; her life now, her business plans and her future, in the interest of letting her fans know where she stands with all of this. We did touch upon the recent run in that she had with the police to allow her an opportunity to speak out regarding those news stories and allegations. She knows of course that everyone is curious about what really went down and wants to assure you that she’s fine, aside from suffering from some pretty kick ass pain due to her knee injury. Her comment to us was that “people have taken things the wrong way, and her fans should remain faithful in the knowledge that everything isn’t always as it seems to be”. “When information is reported carelessly by certain members of the press (she’s not naming names) it’s like people get the mentality of…let the f ’en gossiping begin”! We’ll also tell you this much; Flo looks damn good and in spite of her knee pain and this bullsh*t case she now has to handle, she’s doing just great! Take a look at the pictures and see for yourself. She seems to be in top form, looking her usual HOT, SPICY and confident self- and more than ready to take on the world!

She has also informed Tru. Magazine that rumors alleging that she was under the influence of alcohol or any narcotic substance during the incident are completely false. She went on further to state that she assures her fans that she was not under the influence of any substance nor was she requested to be tested by officials for suspicion of intoxication, and further that contrary to published reports; no motor vehicle owned or operated by her was searched for illegal substances. She’s promised that more details on that will be forthcoming as well, pending her receiving permission from her legal team to the release additional information The next issue of Tru. Entertainment Magazine features THE full in depth EXCLUSIVE interview with Flo. “Former Bad Girl, Flo Kaja goes “on the record” Pt. 2. We keep it Tru. and we can guarantee you she will too!

In the meantime and in between time Flo encourages you, and so do we…NOT to believe everything you read unless you get it, straight from the horses mouth! There ya go, ok now you can go ‘head and get excited Flo fans because more of the sexy, sassy Flo on her grind will be comin right at ya in 5,4,3,2…(the next issue), so…Keep it Tru!

lanae@lanaeservices.com

TRU SPORTS

Haley Smilow WITH

Haley Smilow Tru. Magazine Jr. Sports Reporter Age 11

Playing in his fourth season with the New York Yankees, Curtis Granderson has spent much of this year on the disabled list. Looking back over his last two years Granderson, was on pace to set more MLB records. In 2011 Granderson has been voted to the American League All Star game as starting center fielder as well as helping the Yankees offense.

The left-handed hitter has home run power, a great glove, speed, along with athleticism on the field. His efforts off the field are as remarkable as his play on field. Curtis represented MLB at the White House in their anti-obesity effort and created the Grand Kids Foundation, focused on improving the educational experience for youth nationwide. I had a chance to sit down with Curtis Granderson before a game, and talk baseball, but discovered the Yankees center fielder is an avid WWE fan along with being a published author and all around nice guy.

HALEY: In August my family is following the Yankees to US Cellular Field, Kauffman Stadium, Target Field and Camden Yards with stops at Miller Park, Wrigley and Busch Stadium. Do you have a favorite ballpark and why? Is there a ballpark where you feel you always play well other than Yankee Stadium?

GRANDERSON: I like the Anaheim Angles Stadium because it has good weather to play in and the playing surface is well taken care of, making it a nice place to play ball. I also enjoy the Rally Monkey because he is fun to watch but as a player it means that the Angels are doing well. Other stadiums that I like to play in are Mariners Safeco Field and of course at home in Chicago at US Cellular Field and Wrigley.

HALEY: Since I am going to be in Chicago, who has the best Pizza in Chicago? Who in New York? Do you like Deep Dish or Thin Crust Pizza?

GRANDERSON: My favorite Pizzeria’s in Chicago are Lou Malnali’s, Giordanos and Gino’s and in New York Artichoke Basille’s. Sometimes I like Dominos thin crust pizza, because I like my crust crunchy. If I am really hungry I will order deep dish.

HALEY: Coney Island Hot Dogs or Nathan’s Hot Dogs?

GRANDERSON: Since I played in Detroit I would have to say Coney Island Hot Dog’s HALEY: What is your favorite meal?

GRANDERSON: I really love Thanksgiving dinner because you get to eat a little bit of everything and you can go back over and over for more helpings.

HALEY: My little brother is a fan of WWE, I heard you are as well. Who are some of you favorite wrestlers of today?

GRANDERSON: Of course I like CM Punk because he is a great wrestler and from Chicago. Jon Cena is another favorite. I also like the Diva’s because they work hard and are as good as the guys.

HALEY: Do you have any brothers or sisters?

GRANDERSON: I have an older half sister, Monica.

HALEY: In your book All You Can Be: Dream It, Draw It, Become It, you share the lessons that you learned growing up, what is one lesson you would tell the Baseball Youth readers if they haven’t read the book?

GRANDERSON: The selection of friends, good and bad, positive or negative and the people you surround yourself with, will shape your whole life.

HALEY: I also know you are an ambassador for MLB and have traveled to England, Italy, South Africa, China, and New Zealand is there any place you would really like to go and represent MLB? GRANDERSON: I have never been to South America so that would be amazing. I would also like to go to Japan and Australia, those would be on my top 3 list.

HALEY: Why did you choose the #28 in Detroit and #14 in New York?

GRANDERSON: I was given the #28 in college, which was great because the numbers 2 and 8 are my favorite numbers, so it was both of them together. When I became a Yankee Joe Girardi was #28 so I chose #14 because that was my number from high school.

HALEY: I get to go to a lot of Yankees games and have noticed that you have two rituals can you to explain them? When you step up to the plate you tap it with the bat from left to right then the top, why?

GRANDERSON: No particular reason I guess it is just a habit.

HALEY: When you are leading off from first and the pitcher makes a move you always walk around first base same way every time, why?

GRANDERSON: Because I don’t want to get picked off or called out.

HALEY: Do you have any other rituals or superstions?

GRANDERSON: I only chew sugar free bubble gum.

GRANDERSON: Haley “Do you like gum?” Make sure you take a hand full when you leave the dug out.

HALEY: What is it like in the Dug Out before and after a game?

GRANDERSON: It is a fun place filled with energy and lots of handshakes. We are always meeting people before games. After the game it depends if we won or lost. If we win everyone is happy and celebrating and if we lost we need to move on to the next game.

HALEY: When you are on the road do you share rooms with your teammates?

GRANDERSON: In the majors we get our own rooms. In the minors we share rooms, I used to share with Ryan Raburn, Joel Zumaya and David Espinosa.

HALEY: When AJ Burnett has created a celebration for a walk off win, a pie in the face. Have you ever gotten pied?

GRANDERSON: No, I have not been pied. If I get pied it means we won but I am afraid it will burn.

(The pies are Shaving Cream)

HALEY: Who is the biggest practical joker you have ever been on a team with? Have you ever been the victim of a practical joke?

GRANDERSON: Brandon Inge on the Tigers will do funny pranks, silly ones and even some gross ones. We had a little battle going when I played for Detroit. Once I opened his car and filled it with paper and construction tape making it a big mess inside the car and out. Jorge Posada is a real joker as well.

HALEY: In 2007 you became just one of four players in MLB history to record 20 doubles, 20 triples, 20 home runs & 20 stolen bases in a single season, what are some of your other accomplishments you are proud of?

GRANDERSON: Graduating from University of Illinois-Chicago and that I am 1 of only 37 players with college degrees. Making it to the 2006 World Series.

HALEY: Do you have any other favorite sports besides Baseball?

GRANDERSON: I like basketball, especially college ball. I also like hockey, football and bowling and I used to run cross-country.

HALEY: What’s your favorite team?

GRANDERSON: The Kansas City Jay Hawks.

HALEY: Who would you consider your closest friends on the Yankees?

GRANDERSON: Of course I have special bond with my fellow outfielders Nick Swisher and Brett Gardner. But I also like to hang out with CC Sabathia, AJ Burnett and Russell Martin we go out to dinner and movies together.

Curtis Granderson Social Networking links: http://grandkidsfoundation.org/ http://www.facebook.com/cgrand14 http://twitter.com/cgrand14 Haley Smilow Social Networking Links: http://www.wix.com/smilow/home-field-advantage http://www.facebook.com/pages/Home-Field-Advantage/108037172615547 This article appears courtesy of the New York Yankees and Baseball Youth Magazine

By Just Justin Tru. Junior Corrospondent Age 15

TRU TEEN

“Keeping your goals”

can be a hard task with everything that us teenagers can buy. For example; some new headphones, the new iPhone 5, some new shoes, you know my list is long!

The one thing you have to keep in mind when you have a goal is: discipline. Without discipline you lack the mindset to say “no I’m not going to buy those $200 Dr Dre beat headphones right now”. A lot of people suffer from this, but like I said before its all curable with just a little bit of discipline.

The first thing you want to do when making up a goal is to find a way to accomplish it! Most likely the answer to that is money. The second thing you need to do is to keep your wallet, purse or whatever you keep your money in at home unless you just HAVE to bring it. That way, you won’t be tempted to splurge on just anything,out of your budget.

The most important thing to do is to get a plan in place and keep it. If it’s a job, then work it and keep it. Put aside some of your money for your own spending pleasure and then save (at least half) of your money and put the other 1/4 toward your expenses like; game controllers, extra batteries and stuff like that.

We are really used to our parents doing all of the “buying” for us, but once we reach the age where we can start earning and working towards our goals, I think that it’s about time that we do.

And remember in not a psychologist, but I try~Justin

Tyra Hernandez Twitter: @RealityTvBlogr https://twitter.com/RealityTvBlogr Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/insanityisreality08 Instagram: Proudmommie08 email: Insanity7612@gmail.com

Insanity IS Reality goes there with Bridezilla’s Danni Starr

My 2sense...

Danni Starr of ‘Bridezilla Bootcamp’, was the Star of the Show indeed. I know she is by far, a Fan Favorite and in all actuality her and Marlon deserve that Title! They worked harder then any couple in my opinion, so it is nice that I was able to catch up with her & really get her take on it all.

She let me in on a lot of the behind the scenes stuff as well as what she is up to now! Lets dig in, there is A lot to talk about.

Danni, thank you so much for taking the time out to do such a long & very open Interview with me. I appreciate your honesty & letting your ‘Fans’ & ‘Supporters’ in on your experience...

Q: On a scale from 1-10, where would you rate yourself on the show ?

A: Honestly, after watching the episode, it made me laugh. It was a complete caricature of who I am. I wasn’t bad at all at my private wedding in St. Lucia. There were no cameras there and it was stress free. My Minnesota wedding was much different, it was all stress.

They film nine days straight, all day long. I was exhausted and irritable, and I knew the name of the show. So I know you have to give them what they want. I guess I would say a six or a seven and I think even that’s high.

Q: Where would Marlon put you at on a scale from 1-10?

A: Marlon was the only person who never got snapped on during wedding time (laughing) He doesn’t play that. He told me I could do the show, but keep the drama away from him. He would probably say an 8 though, because he doesn’t really have anything to compare my behavior to.

Q: It has not been very long since you first appeared, what was your core reason for reaching out to this Show ‘Bridezilla Marriage Boot camp’?

A: They actually reached out to me, and at first I wanted nothing to do with the project. I was still dealing with the aftermath of Bridezilla. We really did need some help so eventually we jumped on board.

Q: What did you learn were some issues that ONLY surfaced with the help of the Instructors?

A: I had no idea how much anger and resentment I was holding on to, and how it was literally holding me back, hindering growth and affecting my marriage.

Q: You mentioned a lot, that you were pushed to your limit. What were the two hardest?

A: The casket exercise was life changing, which was so intense. The other that really hit home was role playing with counselor Jim when he was being my dad. I did not expect to break down the way I did.

Q: In my personal opinion, it was you and Marlon who really gave 110% nearly 99% of the time. This is my opinion. Would you agree?

A: I think we both went in with the same mentality, we wanted to learn as much as we could and really get help.

We definitely tried to give it our all because we knew we weren’t in a good spot.

Q: Porsha & Byron, I am uncertain of their current ‘state’, but what did you think when they were ‘removed’?

You all worked as a unit and I think your personal opinion would be genuine and unbiased as a friend.

A: I felt extremely bad for Porsha. When you love someone so much it’s hard to go through what they were going through. I think many women know they are being cheated on, but they do not want to be embarrassed. I wouldn’t want to be embarrassed. I personally think Porsha deserves better.

Q: You always seemed to keep it cool when dealing with Kirsten and no one besides Remi really stayed in that place with you... why do you think it was so hard for people to even understand her issues?

A: Her behavior was intense, it was highly dramatic all the time so I think people just grew tired of it quickly.

Q: You finally ‘popped off ’ when she laughed From that point Seth ‘came to her defense’ for once, do you feel like even that blow out maybe helped them in anyway?

A: I think he should have come to his wife’s defense, but I know had Marlon been in the room that would have never happened. At some point instead of coming to her defense, telling her to bring it down a few notches would have decreased animosity in the house. Most of us felt she was over the top.

Q: It was hard work, it tested limits and you had to be very ‘naked’ in front of others. What is one thing you would have liked to see be different about this Bootcamp?

A: I would have wanted the Reunion to not be so negative. It was all drama and that sucked because boot camp was such a positive experience for me. Reality TV though is not known for highlighting the positive (laughing) Q: How did you feel to FINALLY get your honest, lie detector proven, answer about Marlon’s behavior at work?

A: I felt bad that I questioned him, but I had my reasons. I am glad he has never physically cheated on me, but emotional inappropriateness isn’t cool either so I am glad we got to the root of everything. Such a relief. (all smiles) Q: How are you and Marlon doing now? The baby, the marriage, the family?

A: Every day is a work in progress. I no longer expect everything to be perfect. I put in a lot of work and so does he, and we fight fair now. We love being parents and we work amazing together, eventually we hope to expand our little unit.

Q: Any regrets?

A: Not really, even the stuff that made viewers really upset I wouldn’t take back. When I say things, I mean it. I can’t always help how things are edited though and out of context things appeared much different.

Q: Where is Danni today as far as who Danni was walking in? Always a Bridezilla, but you had trust issues, some confidence issues, etc.?

A: I have a different sense of standards for myself. I am giving a 100 percent as a wife and mom, but I am also making sure I am taking care of myself. I have grown up a lot and have a new-found respect for positivity.

Q: How is the sex, your confidence, your new found trust? What did this Bootcamp do for you as the other half of a Marriage that was having those troubles?

A: The boot camp for me was like a wake-up call. I really didn’t recognize myself much anymore. I was tired of being angry & a victim, and it taught me I didn’t have to be! I’m making progress in everything that was lacking (the sex, confidence etc) When it comes to trust, I’ve learned to always trust myself. I know my heart and my intentions, I’m not doubting myself any more. I stand firm in being me, because FINALLY I realize there is nothing wrong with me! I am good enough!

Q: What are you up to now, can we expect any spin offs?

A: I am co-host of a syndicated morning radio show, The Kane Show and I am loving every minute of it. Not sure about spin-offs though. There has been a lot of interest and possible opportunities, but right now we are just trying to get used to living in a new city. We just recently moved to DC. Q: You were a Fan Fav without a doubt, why do you think that is?

A: I hope it’s because I was transparent. I let it all out and people could relate to our issues. It’s the same way when I am on the air. I have been on the radio since I was 19. I’ve lived my life very publicly for almost a decade and I don’t have much of a filter. I also think Marlon is super charismatic and we have ridiculous interactions that make people laugh or cry.

Q: I have to ask what you really think of each couple. Not personal or individually. Quickly what you really felt of each of the progress by the Finale?

A: Honestly, I don’t think about them. I talk to a few, wish everybody good luck, but after the reunion I realized that most of them didn’t like me and were extremely fake about it. I don’t want any part of that.

Be sure to join us next month for another up close and personal interview with one of your favorite reality T.V. stars. Remember Insanity IS Reality!

For more Insanity be sure to follow me on Twitter@MiszInsanity

WANTED

We are seeking talented writers, reporters and photo journalists to cover a variety of topics, concerts and events.

Great compensation package opportunity for qualified individuals. Seeking additional staff for Tru. Magazine AND Tru. Teen (writers age 1121). Please Email all serious inquiries to; lydia@truentmagazine.com

TREATS BY SHARON FOX

Homemade Orange Custard

The Best Chocolate Ice Cream

1 tablespoon cornstarch

1/2 cup Hershey's cocoa powder 3 cups half-and-half 1 cup heavy cream 8 large egg yolks 3/4 cup sugar 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

1 1/2 cups whole milk 3 large eggs 1 cup sugar 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt 1 1/2 cups heavy cream 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

until thick enough to coat a spoon, 8 to 10 minutes (do not boil). Pour through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl, then set in refrigerator to chill. Add the cream and stir to combine. Stir in the vanilla, orange juice concentrate and orange zest. Cover and chill until cold.

Freeze the custard in an ice cream maker according to the manufacturer’s directions. Scrape into a pastry bag fitted with a large star tip and pipe into cups for that “custard shop” soft

2/3 cup frozen orange juice concentrate, serve look, or just dip into bowls! thawed Freeze for a harder ice cream.

4 teaspoons grated orange zest

Whisk the cornstarch and 1/2 cup milk in a small bowl until smooth. Whisk the eggs, sugar and salt in a medium saucepan; whisk in the cornstarch mixture and the remaining 1 cup milk until smooth.

Cook the mixture over low heat, stirring,

Place the cocoa powder along with 1 cup of the ha saucepan over medium heat and whisk to combin and-half and the heavy cream. Bring the mixture j occasionally, and remove from the heat.

In a medium mixing bowl whisk the egg yolks unt Gradually add the sugar and whisk to combine. Te into the eggs and sugar by gradually adding small of the cream mixture has been added. Pour in the entire mixture to the saucepan and place over low stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens sligh a spoon and reaches 170 to 175 degrees F. Pour th and allow to sit at room temperature for 30 minut Place the mixture into the refrigerator and once it condensation on the lid, cover and store for 4 to 8 very cold.

Pour into an ice cream maker and process accordi rections. This should take approximately 25 to 35 serve or freeze for another 3 to 4 hours to allow th Makes 1 1/2 -2 quarts.

X

www.goodcookin4u2.webs.com

m

Best Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream with Choco Sauces

alf-and-half into a medium ne. Add the remaining halfjust to a simmer, stirring

til they lighten in color. emper the cream mixture amounts, until about 1/3 remainder and return the w heat. Continue to cook, htly and coats the back of he mixture into a container tes. Stir in the vanilla extract. t is cool enough not to form 8 hours or until the mixture is

ing to the manufacturer's diminutes. Serve as is for soft he ice cream to harden.

4 QUARTS: 4 eggs 2 1/4 c. sugar 2 cans evaporated milk 5 c. whole milk 4 1/2 tsp. vanilla 1/2 tsp. salt 1 can Eagle Brand milk

1 tbsp. butter 1 square unsweetened chocolate 1/3 c. boiling water 1 c. sugar 2 tbsp. Karo corn syrup (clear) 1/2 tsp. vanilla 1/8 tsp. salt

6 QUARTS: 6 eggs 3 3/4 c. sugar 3 cans evaporated milk 1/2 gallon milk 6 3/4 tsp. vanilla 3/4 tsp. salt 1 can Eagle Brand milk

Melt butter in saucepan. Add chocolate and stir over low heat until melted. Add boiling water slowly, stirring constantly and bring to a boil. Add sugar and corn syrup, stir until dissolved.

Simmer 5 minutes, watch carefully, then add vanilla and salt; mix well. Makes 1 cup.

Beat eggs until foamy. Add sugar gradually. Beat until sugar dissolves. Add remaining and mix well. Chill at least 4 hours, overnight is even better. Pour into ice cream freezer and freeze using rock salt and ice. Great with homemade

hot fudge sauce.

All Tru. Entertainment Magazine Recipes courtesy of our Food Editor, Chef/Author Sharon Fox Purchase your favorite books by Sharon Fox here: www.elementsofanewday.webs.com/apps/webstore/ at special discount prices!

HEALTHY FOOD for Diabetes, Celiac Disease and You!

This book is filled with vital information and recipes for not only Diabetics or people who are on Gluten-Free diets, but for anyone who wants to live a healthier life. No longer does “healthy food� mean tasteless food. There are well over 200 tasty recipes that anyone will enjoy. This book is now available!! Be sure you get a copy for yourself...and a few for friends!

Thank you Sharon......

New Orleans Pound Cake

3 cups cake flour 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 2 cups granulated sugar 1 cup butter, softened 4 large eggs, room temperature 1/4 cup sour cream 1 cup buttermilk 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract 1/4 cup granulated sugar 1/4 cup sweetened flaked coconut

Preheat oven to 350 Degrees.

Sift together cake flour, salt, baking powder and soda. Set aside.

In a large separate bowl, beat butter until very fluffy (approx. 5 minuets) then add 2 cups of sugar. Continue to beat until light and fluffy (approx. 2 more minutes).

Beat in eggs, one at a time, making sure that each egg is thoroughly blended before adding the next egg.

Mix in sour cream and vanilla extract.

Blend in some of the dry ingredients followed by some of the buttermilk in alternates. This is a way to ensure that the ingredients are being thoroughly blended together -- DO NOT OVER BEAT OTHERWISE CAKE WILL BECOME HARD AS A BRICK ONCE FINISHED BAKING! Grease a NON-STICK Bundt cake pan and dust very lightly with flour.

Add in 1/4 cup of sugar to the bottom of pan and about 3 inches up the sides, tapping the pan to ensure even distribution. Leave excess sugar in pan. Sprinkle coconut flakes to the bottom of the pan. Scrape batter into the pan and spread evenly.

Bake for about 50 minutes to 1 hour... or until a wooden skewer inserted comes out clean (if it comes out wet, bake another 10 minutes or so, if it comes out crumbly, you over baked the cake). *Some ovens take about 1 hour 15 minutes.

Let cake cool for about 10 minutes, then carefully remove from pan, making sure that the sugary coconut side is faced upward.

Cool completely.

GLAZE: 2 cups confectioners’ sugar 1/4 cup butter, melted 1/4 cup evaporated milk 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract 1/2 teaspoon almond extract In a medium sized bowl mix all ingredients together until smooth. Add more milk for desired consistency. You may also use regular milk, but I must say that evaporated milk gives a WAY better taste! Drizzle over cake.

RE

“Weedo

R

ecently we had a

Yes, it’s an unlikely to get into Redman’s “we Like it or not (politici

Oaksterdam Universi 2007 by medical mari the business and work

Downtown Oakland, C Activist Richard Lee wa Lee recalled “In Novem there are not enough go taxes and obey regulatio into the back of my hea The university offered i certificates of completio On April 2, 2012, Oaks targeted Coffeeshop Blu the university’s assets w University officials state be giving up ownership cials will soon cease op

The university’s curricu tion is $250 for a basic c horticulture, as well as b

has been shown by the message in the country

EDMAN

ology”, according to Redman

a very frank and unusual (but candid) conversation with Artist, Redman- on, well....weed.

opic but for those of us who aren’t consumers of the cannabis plant it was very enlightening. Before we eedology”, let’s take a look at the background on the University he speaks of in his interview with Tru. ians) WEED is becoming coffee table conversation!

ity is a non-accredited for-profit educational facility and “political institution” founded in November ijuana activist Richard Lee to offer training for the cannabis industry, with a mission to “legitimize k to change the law to make cannabis legal.” Its main campus is located in the Oaksterdam area of

California. There are also campuses in Los Angeles, Sebastopol, and Michigan. as inspired to create Oaksterdam University after visiting the Cannabis College in Amsterdam. mber of 2006 I visited Amsterdam and saw the Cannabis College there. I’ve seen in California that ood people who want to work in the cannabis industry in a professional way, who want to pay ons and help improve their community. I came back from Amsterdam and the idea just popped ad...” its first classes to 22 students in November 2007.As of November 2009, the university has granted on to 6,000 students! sterdam University was raided by the DEA, IRS, and US Marshals Service.The raid additionally ue Sky and the Oaksterdam Museum, both affiliated with Oaksterdam University. A number of were seized, including plants, records, computers and bank accounts. After the raid, Oaksterdam ed that they would immediately reopen, but Founder Richard Lee said following the raid that he’ll p of the organization, citing mounting debt and concern for incurring federal charges. School offiperations at the campus’ current location as they work to migrate the institution to a home.

ulum reaches all aspects of the medical marijuana industry, from horticulture to legal issues.Tuicourse, a series of weekend seminars which includes lessons and lectures on politics, legal issues, business management. Also, a semester schedule is offered for $700. Opposition to the university

Drug Enforcement Administration, which claims the school “sends the wrong y’s fight against drugs and promotes criminal activity.

ve o o THE INTERVIEW m S e k i ith M w

about it but yeah, I am a graduate member.

I am an alumni. Yeah.

Mike Smoove: So explain to me what’s up with the Weedology Redman? Break it down so our readers can get with it.

Redman: All right. So I was just explaining that I don’t just smoke weed and get high. This weed movement is really a big movement because the bud now is helping these cancer patients, people with blood diseases, AIDS, sleeping disorders, eating disorders.

Mike Smoove: What else do people do with that? They go to open the dispensaries?

Redman: Well they take their – once they get their degree, they try to open dispensary or be a part of dispensary and they serve these patients, man. You actually got patients that come in and say, “Yo, I have a sleeping disorder.” You actually say, “Well, you want indica.” Indica is more heavy, puts you to sleep and it won’t give you a groggy feeling in the morning like the over-thecounter stuff does.

I actually graduated from Oaksterdam University in Oakland, California and for those who are not familiar with Oaksterdam University, it’s a university that teaches you the properties of weed, of what it’s used for, teaches you all about the Cannabis plant, how to cook it, why the patients are running to marijuana Mike Smoove: So what’s Redman’s weed? now more than over-the-counter drugs, because it’s tearing out Redman: I’m more of a sativa guy. Sativa the stomach lining and sh*t like that. is more like an energy plant. A good sativa you can hit it and actually you feel your enSo yeah, I have a degree in that. I’m a licensed consultant, patient consultant. I’m licensed to open a dispensary. I’m licensed ergy picking up. You won’t go to sleep. You know how you feel – smoke some weed. It’s to give bud to AIDS patients, cancer patients, or whatever. I’m just that’s the indica. licensed. I’ve got my diploma and I went to school with Richard Lee, those who know about marijuana and know about the properties in marijuana and the marijuana movement; the Prop 19 Movement in LA and everything. Yeah, I went to school with Richard Lee, shook hands with the top guys that’s a – part of this movement. So, yeah, not too many people really know

Sativa you hit it and it actually gives you boost. It actually gives you a little energy to keep on going. As far as mind-wise, it keeps you more creative than indica and hybrid weed is the mixture between indica

and sativa. So you get the best of both worlds.

Mike Smoove: Do you have a preference? Like this is what I – like I want to smoke the sativa when I’m chilling or I want indica before I go do a show.

Mike Smoove: Has anybody ever smoked you out?

Redman: I don’t know. I think don’t think anybody can smoke me out. I just smoke – you use the smoke – no one smokes you out. You usually just smoke your own self out, man. Real smokers don’t compete. That’s the young game. That’s for the young smokers that are just getting high. I’m part of a Cannabis movement so we don’t try to smoke each other out. We just try to see who has the best tasting bud.

Redman: Well, I’m part of the High Times Magazine.

Everybody is familiar with High Times Magazine.

I’m part of the High Times Magazine crew and I just judged the Cannabis Cup in LA maybe about a month and a half ago and I became a fan of indica because I’m more a sativa guy. So now when I’m working in the studio, I’m going to do the sativa but afterwards, I’m going Mike Smoove: There you go. to hit a strong indica.

Redman: You know what I mean? One hit, like oh, he Mike Smoove: Is there one that you feel like will help got that sh*t! So once you hit another person’s bud, you to be more creative before you write a song? you see the quality of his weed, your like all right, yeah, he got something going on, whatever in his Redman: I like smoking that Cheese. I like smoking light, you know? that Blue Dream. That Blue Dream is very creative. The Double Blue Dream is very creative. I like smoking that Mike Smoove: So on that note, I’m glad you said that King Louie. I don’t think that’s a sativa though. I think one joint because I mean like even – you said you take that’s more of a hybrid, the King Louie the – the Swiss that weed, that blunt but that’s – you know, we know Cheese, the Cheese, anywhere in that – yeah. where that came from but like I see like a lot of people moving from the whole rolling up situation, people Mike Smoove: All right. Snoop Dogg, Devin the Dude, moving down from blunts, now a lot of people are Method Man and you being on the tour, who smoked doing one-nies and sh*t or bongs. What’s your preferout the most? ence?

Redman: I don’t know. It would be a lot of f*cking smoking. Snoop smokes a f*cking lot. I can vouch for that. My ni*ger Meth smokes a lot. I smoke a f*cking lot but that ni*ger Snoop smokes a f*cking lot! He smokes a whole lot! I can damn sure vouch for that.

Devin the Dude, I hung with him a couple of times. He definitely smokes too.

Redman: I’m still a blunt dude. I never knew how to roll a joint. They got them hookah cigarettes now, like the hookah lamps.

Mike Smoove: Oh, yeah, yeah, the hookah joints.

Redman: Yeah, so they got hookah cigarettes now

where you put the little thing and they stay lit like a – it’s crazy. Yeah, yo they got them in a club now, the hookah cigarette. It’s lit at the end like a light bulb but you can put bud in it and everything. Ya’ but I prefer a blunt any day. That’s me.

Mike Smoove: Yeah.

Redman: Yeah.

Mike Smoove: Oh, yeah, then I got to ask. Somebody said that. They said, “Yo, if you found a bag of weed landing in some poop what do you do?”

Redman: That sh*t should stay right there (laughing).

We’re not sure if that is truly where the opposition comes from, or if there is a “deeper” reason, but one thing is for certain, if you visit a site like; http://legalizationofmarijuana.com/ arguments-for-and-against-the-legalization-of-marijuana or you check out Oaksterdam University at; http://www.oaksterdamuniversity. com your bound to at least consider that so many people who believe in the legalization of marijuana may not be so wrong after all.

Additional Sources; oaksterdamuniversity.com and wikipedia.com

The G Wome

FOR YOUR BAD” THE

Girl is Bad: The Story of the en of Parliament-Funkadelic By :Seth Neblett

R READING PLEASURE... EXCEPTS FROM CHAPTER 5 (PLEASURE PRINCIPLE) OF “THE GIRL IS E STORY OF THE WOMEN OF P-FUNK! BY SETH NEBLETT! - COMING SOON!!!!! ENJOY! 2013 @with the Writers Guild of America, All Rights Reserved.

Thanks to the disco era, Casablanca Records had become one of the biggest labels in the world by 1977 with the huge success of KISS, Parliament and Donna Summer. George Clinton had found an ally in record company president and visionary Neil Bogart. Bogart’s enthusiasm in making George’s concepts a reality gave Clinton the fuel and funds needed for the Mothership to fly. Bogart, an extraordinary promotions man, according to George knew that Mallia’s chameleon like exterior could “lighten the shade” of Parlet and possibly make them more appealing to mass audiences in the bigger scope of things. She looked like a white girl, but sang like a black girl, which was a rare novelty back in the seventies. Parlet’s debut album “Pleasure Principle” would become the catalyst for Dr. Funkenstein’s new brand of female funk. In his usual fashion, the album’s theory was examples of Clinton’s sexual conceptualizations. Every press release and interview boasted quotes of sensual gratification, satisfaction or various nouns of how Parlet would get you off. The album’s cover was illustrated by Shusei Nagaoka, a Japanese artist known for his famous Egyptian cover art for Earth, Wind & Fire and the space ships for ELO. Casablanca commissioned the artist and it was rumored that Clinton gave him a theme, “I want you to create a cosmic whore house.” Nagaoka, found a way to keep the sexual notion without the denigrating imagery. The trio of singers is depicted posed on a starship bridge in spacesuits bare at the breasts with small silver stars covering their aureolas.

The ship is constructed of components mimicking private parts. Debbie sitting on a chair in the shape of a penis and a control panel resembling a vulva hovering above were among other hidden sexual images. Mallia is placed in the middle of the cover on a fuchsia sofa, encircled by lamps made in the form of breasts; Jeanette posed with her hand sassily on her hip. A full illustration of the starship appearing on the back cover revealed that the vessel was actually an intergalactic vagina constructed of steel, glass and neon light. The album was produced by George and his new songwriter, producer and right hand man Ron Dunbar, a songwriter that penned Freda Payne’s anthem “Band of Gold” and won a Grammy in 1971 for the song “Patches” by Clearance Carter. George Clinton made a decision to use the second half of the Funkentelechy Tour as a small promotional tour for Parlet’s Pleasure Principle. He insisted that the album be played through the house system during intermissions at the concert venues and staged interviews with magazines like Rock & Soul to ramp up the album’s promotional machine. A record release party and press conference was established in coming weeks. Everything was looking bright for the trio and their debut project, but clouds were gathering and the most devastating storm threatened Parlet’s survival before that had even made their mark.

“Love Amnesia should have been our first single.” Mallia said. “We all knew it. But Casablanca was a disco label and “Pleasure Principle”, although funky, was really a disco song. Neil Bogart wanted something that they could play in the discotheques’ with Donna Summer and the Village People. Parliament fans liked the P-Funk sound.

Love Amnesia was in the vein of Bop Gun and other hits that Parliament already had with the label. Pleasure Principle did have a long life as a dance record, but it didn’t speak to the P-Funk fans, so it wasn’t a big hit and that was the first of many big mistakes.”

Cont on pg 60

Maserati Rick The son of an infamous drug dealer lives his out his life his

R

ichard “Maserati Rick� Carter Jr. was born to Detroit legend Maserati Rick and longtime girlfriend, Tracy Cowan. of the biggest drug dealers in the city of Detroit in the 80s. Although he made millions of dollars and lived a lavish flas when he was murdered, while Rick Jr. was just a young child.

Rick Sr. was buried in a 16,500 Mercedes Benz casket, many thought that his son Rick Jr. would follow in his fathers fo bracing a life of dealing drugs. However, that was not what was in store for Rick Jr. who would choose a different path

Having a father like Maserati Rick, Rick Jr. faced many different obstacles growing up in Detroit. Growing up without however he was faced with yet another tragedy when his mother Tracey was convicted of King Pin charges and senten was only 15 years old. Richard Carter the teenager had to quickly become a man, and allow his anger and frustration t and revive the name of his legendary father while making a name for himself. Richard Carter Jr. became Maserati Rick rap game.

k Jr rules HIS way...

. Maserati Rick was known for being one shy life style, it all tragically came to an end

ootsteps living the same lifestyle and emh. His path, would be music.

t a father was devastating for Carter Jr., nced to 20-to-30 years in prison when Rick to drive him to break the cycle in his family k Jr. and created a lane for himself in the

Carter may carry his father’s legendary street name, as well as his street creditability, but he is creating a legacy for himself with his different style of rap and street credit to back it up. In 2005 Rick started realizing his talent and passion for music and began to take it serious while working with a long time friend Curtis. A friend and mentor to Rick by the name of Terrence White taught Rick how to make beats, as well as the business side of the music industry. Rick wanted to focus on staying true to who he is by writing about his own personal life experiences. In fact, its not about street credit at all with Maserati Rick Jr..

If you ask Rick, he has a greater purpose...

THE INTERVIEW Tru: What was it like growing up in Detroit the son of the city’s most notorious drug dealer, Maserati Rick (Sr)? Do you ever get flack for being his namesake?

Maserati: It had it’s Pro and Cons because the OG’s always telling me classic stories but then on the other side people expect me to have to that work on me. I get flack for my father’s name because being a drug dealer is always negative no matter how you try to put it.

Tru: How do you feel about what your dad did for a living and how has it impacted your life?

Maserati: Neutral because I was too young to digest what he was doing and plus I looked at him as a father not as a drug dealer through all the bad. It has impacted my life because everyone expects me to go down his path to make money whether accept me for me but as this Drug Kingpin from Detroit.

Tru: Who are you outside of your dad’s shadow? What’s your ‘claim to fame”?

Maserati: I’m the Maserati Rick of the rap game. Outside of my dad shadow I’m a young man showing you that you don’t have to go that route to make money at the same time not shying away from my past.

My claim to fame is my family.

Tru: What drives you to do what you do?

Maserati: My brother Kevin Carter who died in 2003. His dream was to be a rapper, so his influence on me inspired me to go through in this music. And,my mom is incarcerated on King Pin charges so I want to use music to get this story out and position myself to get her out of prison.

Tru: What makes you better than the rest, how do you feel that YOU stand out as an artist?

Maserati: I’m Real! I’m a rappers Dream, My father was a real King Pin, My mother is locked up, my brother died. Everything that people rap about- I lived it. I stand out because I’m versatile and I got the look and I’m doing stuff people never did before. Every rapper wants to have some type of street connection, where I’m actually- in the streets.

Rick is on his way. To join him on his journey check him out at; http:// www.maseratirickjr.com/

Cont from pg 56 “If Pleasure Principle had been a hit, they would have been as big as the Supremes.” George confessed. “They had the looks and talent and Neil was a great promotion man. Parlet would have been gone. They sounded so good on the album. Ron Ford did a lot of stuff with them on that. Debbie sang with such passion… broke up passion, Mallia had that power and Jeanette just surprised the hell out of me. It surprised me that they came off the first time that good and tight. Pleasure Principle was a great song. It’s one of the best songs that we’ve ever done. But it was so slick; it was so jazzy that you really couldn’t dance to it. They could have put any other song out on that album as a single and it would have been a hit. Their harmonies and the sounds were so weird because Ron Dunbar had a whole different side to him and he came from Motown.

Both girl groups sound was slick. By the time we got to Funkentelechy and Flashlight, we were at the peak of our thing.”

“Everything finally came to a head with Debbie a few nights later at a show in Louisville, Kentucky.” Dawn remembered. “The drummer counted the band off and we took our places at the microphones draped in long silver capes. The lights came up and that silver puffy car rolled out, as it did many nights before. George always kept a microphone in hand so he could do his Dr. Funkenstein rhetoric while the car was rolling out. Debbie always rode out in the car with him. George was talking in the mic and all of a sudden we heard “Motherfucker… I’ll kill you!” then it sounded like they were tussling over the microphone. Debbie was in the car threatening George. The car stopped and George leaped out. Debbie sauntered out in her silver bikini and long black wig after him. We were trying to keep Debbie away from George because we didn’t know what she was going to do. That scared George. He made gestures to the roadies to come on the stage and get her. Two roadies came out, one grabbed her arms, one grabbed her legs and they picked her up kicking and screaming and walked her off the stage. The crowd was screaming and hollering because they thought it was part of the show. I think George had a change of heart that night when it was directly affecting him.”

On Blast...an artist know simply as

A

n unlikely story stands behind the man known by has molded him into the artist and leader that he is tod Born and raised by a single mother in Southern Califo a father in the home, a young Strikes was seduced by t

Over the years he was able to call many places “home,” and cultural awareness that he now carries with him to youth. The street life he once idolized and pursued beg

The next 5 years included many struggles before he wo appearing for the first time as “Strikes”, a name given t such as The Game, Nick Cannon, and Roscoe. In 2008 Bone Bros Vol.3

In 2011 he started his own record label, Official Busine NCredible Music in Conjunction with Sony Red in 20

“I want my fans to know and relate to my story and no represent something that’s bigger than that.”

Tru: How would you describe your style?

T

Strikes: I would describe my style as an old schoo tionary”

Tru: Are you strictly into music or do you ventur

Strikes; Right now, I am venturing off into differen I’m more than an M.C.

Tru: Tell us about your recent accomplishments a

Strikes: My most recent accomplishments, were th movie deal between the two. I’m hoping for an Execut with NCredible/ Sony Red! We have 3 projects slated f term goals is to elevate in this industry & build a loyal talk, the street’s listens.

Tru. fam we’ve gotta say, we’ve heard the music, and w Tru. will sure be watching, so look for more updates on

You can follow Strikes and the group on Twitter at; htt Be sure to check out their latest video at; http://allhiph

s “Strikes”

y many as “Strikes”. The rocky road that shaped his life and much of what he experienced throughout his childhood day. ornia, DeQuan, Strikes was brought up in San Diego’s tough Velencia Park neighborhood. Not having the influence of the allure of the street life at an early age and turned to a life of crime at 13 years old.

” Arizona, Atlanta, and Las Vegas, to name a few. Moving around in his early teens gave him the versatile background oday. Along the way, like many in the inner cities, he took to rapping as a way of expressing the experiences of his gan to motivate his Reality Rap-based music. It wasn’t until after high school that his hobby became a passion.

ould team up with childhood friend Nick Cannon in 2003 to begin recording tracks for the Can-I-Ball MixTape Vol.1 to him by Nick Cannon. Early in his career, DeQuan was featured under the name Strikes with other west coast artists 8 he also appeared with Bizzy Bone and Layzie Bone of Bone Thugs N Harmony on the track “ This Is A Warning” on

ess Records and began producing his own recordings, which ultimately led to him signing a Recording Deal with 013.

ot some gimmick used to sell records. Choosing to continue to be known as Strikes is just an expression of my past. I

THE INTERVIEW

ol new school West Flow. Staying original is something i try to keep consistent. My style is definitely defined as “Revolu-

re off into other areas of the entertainment industry?

nt facets of the entertainment industry. I’ve been looking at incorporating clothing and promotion into my movement.

and projects?

he linking up of two good friends of mine, Nick Cannon & Freeway Rick Ross. I was very instruments in setting up the tive Producer Credit for the Introduction. Me and My Rap Group/Band also Inked a Distribution & Recording Deal for release. Our Mix Tape “Religious Prescription” is available now on datpiff.com for free download! One of my long l fan base & following of listeners who have been where I’ve been or can feel where I’m coming from. When the streets

we LOVE the tracks! Here is a refreshing artist with a dream that looks like it’s well on it’s way to being fulfilled. Team on Strikes and his group PSD (Psych Ward Druggies) in upcoming issues.

tps://twitter.com/PsychWardDrugs . hop.com/videos/respect-the-shooter-official-music-video-psychwarddruggies/