TRU/ISSUE 19

ISSUE

19

TRU ENTERTAINMENT MAGAZINE,

FOUNDERS Lydia Marie King and Kevin King EDITOR IN CHIEF Lydia Marie King MANAGING EDITOR Kevin King

21

26

12

3 IN THE KITCHEN WITH SHARON FOX

24 TASTE OF CHICAGO

6 REALITY T.V. COUPLES THERAPY

ASSOCIATE EDITOR Marc Smillow: Assignment Editor(Atlanta Office) Keith King Assignment Editor(Mpls Office) Matthew Fleegel ADMIN/ FIELD ASSISTANT Brooklyn Saunders Assistant Editor Keith King DIGITAL CONTENT AND ART DESIGN Kevin King Donna Osborn Clark CORPORATE BRANDING AND STRATEGY Lydia Marie King, Kevin King, STAFF REPORTERS & NEWS CORRESPONDENTS Lydia Marie King Keith King Mathew Fleegel Junior Reporters Justin Johnson Candace Cordelia Haley Smillow Christian Moses Zeina Adel CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Keith Murphy , Sharon Fox, Keith King. George Aja, Sy Huff ,Keith Johnson, Kal Ahmed Tyra Hernandez, William d’Anthony Gena Rinckey ,Dj Averi Minor Raissa Nkuba Timothy Marcoe, Cat Glover, Lydia King Karen j. Larson PHOTOGRAPHERS & VIDEOGRAPHERS Kevin King,Mathew Fleegel Lydia King, David Booker, , Keith king Kalvin O’Neal:

In the kitchen w/Sharon Fox www.goodcookin4u2.webs.com

SHRIMP AND SCALLOPS 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar 1/4 cup light brown sugar 3-4 large strawberries, stems removed and sliced (or quartered) 1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil 1/2 cup thinly sliced shallots 6 cups (lightly packed) arugula or spinach leaves (large stems removed)-- I prefer spinach* 2 Tbsps grape seed oil or light olive oil 4 extra jumbo scallops 6-8 uncooked jumbo (or larger) shrimp, peeled & deveined Coarse sea salt or Kosher salt In a bowl, stir together the vinegar and sugar until the sugar is dissolved.

Fold in the strawberries, cover, and chill for at least one hour. Remove from the fridge when you’re ready to start cooking.

Heat the extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Saute the shallots until softened, then add the spinach leaves or arugula and turn until well mixed. Cook just a minute or two until all the leaves have wilted but are still fully green. Remove greens to a strainer and keep warm.

Dry the scallops and shrimp well and sprinkle with the coarse salt. Heat a skillet or saute pan over medium high heat until quite hot. Add the grape seed or light olive oil, let oil heat a moment, then carefully add the scallops and shrimp (there will be some spattering.)

Let the shrimp sear for about 1 minute per side until just opaque. Remove and keep warm. Don’t move the scallops until you can see a brown edge forming around the bottom (about 2 to 2 1/2 minutes.) Carefully lift one scallop -- if the surface has a nice caramelized color, turn them over.

Cook for just another minute until the scallops are springy but not quite firm.

Remove the scallops and keep warm.

Wipe out the pan, then add the strawberries and vinegar. Remove the strawberries after they are heated through (about 30 seconds) and let the balsamic cook down briefly until thickened to a syrupy consistency.

To serve, place the green on a plate, top with the scallops, shrimp, and strawberries, then drizzle the balsamic reduction over the scallops and shrimp.

SAUSAGE CHEESE BALLS W/ APRICOT DIJON SAUCE 2 (16 ounce) packages Regular Flavor Jimmy Dean Pork Sausage 1 1/2 cups BISQUICK baking mix 4 cups shredded sharp Cheddar cheese 1/2 cup finely chopped onion 1/2 cup finely chopped celery 2 teaspoons black pepper 2 teaspoons minced garlic (optional) Preheat oven to 375 F. Combine all ingredients in a large mixing bowl; stir well. Form into 1inch balls. Place on ungreased baking sheet; bake 18-20 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from oven; cool 5 minutes before removing from pan. Serve with dipping sauce of your choice.

APRICOT - DIJON DIPPING SAUCE 1 cup apricot jam or preserves 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard 2 to 4 tablespoons red wine vinegar Place all ingredients in a blender or processor. Blend until smooth.

HEALTHY STRAWBERRY-HONEY BRUSCHETTA 1 loaf (8 oz) baguette-style French bread 1 container (6 oz) fat-free Greek yogurt 2 tablespoons brown sugar 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon 16 fresh strawberries, sliced 1/4 cup honey Preheat oven to 375째F. Cut bread into 1/2-inch slices; arrange on a baking sheet. Bake about 10 minutes or until golden.

Turn oven setting to broil. Meanwhile, stir together yogurt, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Spread yogurt mixture on one side of each toasted baguette slice. Broil bread slices 4 inches from heat about 1 minute or until mixture is hot. Arrange strawberry slices on the yogurt mixture. Lightly drizzle each bread slice with honey. Serve immediately.

Insanity IS Reality By :Tyra Hernandez

The deal with “Couples Therapy” S

o, for all of you who follow the show, or are even just now tuning in, I think that you would agree, it is UBER entertaining!. You can easily get “hooked” on the issues and problems of these cast members. Many of which we almost always remember from the their previous shows because of the characters they are in general.

Y

es, we are seeing quite the cast this season. So far, the Cast is quite the mix and this may very well be the craziest season so far. Ghostface Killah, from Music Group ‘Wu-Tang Clan’, seems to be confused as to what a boyfriend truly is. I am not sure what to expect from him on the show. We ‘ve all seen the previews of when another woman joined a “one on one” therapy session, so w ho knows how all that will turn out. Honestly, I am so not interested in this couple, because Ghostface isn’t feelin ttherapy at all. His woman leaves the group session next week and he chose not to follow her so why come on the show anyway? Unless a need for money is his only motivation- I’m just saying!

www.insanityisreality.com https://TWITTER.com/MiszInsanity https://www.FACEBOOK.com/insanityisreality08 https://www.INSTAGRAM.com/Miszinsanity08 Her new YouTube Channel for all the HOTTEST Interviews @ https://www.YOUTUBE.com/channel/UCZC11axMjNDC447CQNQL8Qw

F

arrah Abraham, the bottom line for her is... she needs help too ! I am glad they let her stay even though her “fake boyfriend” did n’t show up because she really needs the HELP! She is so different these days and I really have no clue what has happened to her, but - I am most looking forward to watching her go through the therapy as well. Farrah has always been a “lost soul” in my opinion (since Teen Mom), so there is no telling how her story will end either. I could write an entire article on her alone ! The way that I see it, it will be a wild ride no matter how we look at it !

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eal L Word” stars, Whitney Mixter and Sada Bettencourt. Let me keep it Tru, in my humble opinion they both are there for all of the right reasons. I have faith that the Show will get this married couple back on track and that we’ll get to see them on their journey to find happiness and success . They love each other, that is very clear. Yes, they do bicker back and forth, but that’s because it ‘s a relationship between two women and they aren’t’ quite sure exactly “ who” should be wearing the pants . I for one, am looking forward to watching them sort that out.!

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aylor Armstrong , of ‘Real Housewives of Beverly Hills’ is in therapy with her fiance’. Had she not already gotten so drunk and went bananas with the ‘way that she’s been living’, I may have been able to take her more seriously. But, w e can’t forget- they do get a paycheck for being there, so Taylor screaming that she is calling her Agent doesn’t surprise me much. I think she has some serious issues, which, is understandable consideringwhat she’s been through with her husband killing himself. In fact, I think that Taylor probably needs this therapy more then anyone there. We shall see what will become of Miss Taylor and her participation. I am crossing my fingers that she takes it seriously and that she go es forward. Her participation is definitely one of the more interesting components of the show.

I have heard therapist, Dr. Jenn Berman say “ this is the craziest season yet”, and I agree . But, I also think that this Doc is “the bomb.com “ , and eventually, she WILL get all of this nutty cast straightened out.

Time to buckle up folks , with this show we are all in for one craz y ride!

If you want more of our reality T.V. guru, Tyra Hernandez , aka “Misz. Insanity” you can find her everywhere, please be sure to take a moment to “follow “ and “like “ her social media sites.

Book Review Sins of Henry County

Author: Charles Sargent (non-fiction) By : Gena Rickey Over the holidays I had a chance to read the book, “Sins of Henry County” by Charles Sargent, of McDonough, Georgia.

The setting for this true story is in Jonesboro, Georgia, the county seat of Clayton County, which is about 30 miles south of Atlanta, and McDonough, Georgia is the county seat of Henry County, which is adjacent to Henry County.

The author brings forth with tremendous detail the story of the execution style, double homicides of 19 year-old Melanie Ann Hartsfield, a student at nearby Clayton Junior College and 38 year-old Marvin King, the band director at nearby Jonesboro High School.

True crime stories can be difficult to read if a reader is not typically gravitated to reading about them, but the even more difficult ones are the ones that are still not solved. The man who was arrested, tried and convicted twice and sentenced to die in Georgia’s electric chair was not the killer of these two victims.

The killer may even still be out there, although the murders occurred a little over 39 years ago.

It is extremely important to note that this haunting tale is no tale. It is real. If you have never heard of it, do not be surprised. This double-homicide of a band director and his former student was overshadowed by that time frame, and because I believe something more sinister was going on in Henry County, including corruption and coverups, lies and deceit. There are actually three victims in this case, and I also believe beyond a shadow of a doubt that Jerry Banks was framed within a few days. All three of the victims’ families lives were shattered to pieces over it.

A community was too afraid to speak of it in public without fear of retribution from a still unknown, but

perhaps still present threat.

Mr. Sargent felt called by God to follow and study this case. And if you are a Christian and you feel it in your heart that God sends you a message, it is probably best to answer it. He knew something was terribly wrong with this case. He lived with these feelings for three decades and as a private citizen, he researched it, putting it together piece by piece, like a very complicated puzzle.

Jerry Banks was 23 years old in early November of 1974. He was married to Virginia, and had three young children.

The family lived outside of Stockbridge, Georgia near Rock Quarry Road, where the victims were found, less than a mile from their home.

He had taken his puppy and his brother’s old Stevens Arms break-top shotgun held together with a lot of black electrical tape to go rabbit hunting. The puppy ran off, and in search of his puppy, he found two bodies covered with a red bedspread, which he pulled away. Both victims were shot numerous times in the mid-section and the head. Knowing that he could not “just leave those people there,” he frantically flagged down traffic in order to get a passerby to call the police. That did not turn out well for Jerry, not well at all.

Within a few days Jerry found himself arrested for the double-homicide. He was tried in January of 1975, convicted and sentenced to death after only one and a half days of deliberations. The case was reversed at the appellate level and Jerry was given another trial after the missing motorist who responded and had gone back to the crime scene had helped him by calling the authorities.

The second trial came with it a plea deal. If Jerry were to plead guilty he could receive a sentence of life in prison and the death penalty would be off the table. Jerry Banks, would not agree to stand up in court and plead guilty to any crime he did not commit, even if it would save him from death. Again, Jerry Banks was quickly found guilty and sentenced to death.

There are 100 kinds of wrong and evil present in this case and in how the authorities treated it. There was mishandling of evidence, tampering with evidence, and outright planting of evidence that did not exist before Jerry Banks was arrested. While I do believe many people within Henry County who grew up with the “whispers” around town as to Jerry Banks being framed, there seemed to be an unwritten rule that the law could not be questioned.

Yes, the victims were both white and Jerry Banks was a black man. Yes, indeed race played a key role in the framing of Jerry Banks. And yes, those who still have sin in their hearts and blood on their hands. It is absolutely disgraceful that so many things went so very wrong for an innocent man who served six years both in jail and on Georgia’s death row.

One must note that if you do pick up this book, you need to look past the author’s dyslexia, and he even claims it in his book that he has it and that it can be a challenge to follow.

What is more important is the message he is trying to send out. It is somewhat of a plea for help, as those who still may have information on who killed Melanie Ann Hartsfield and Marvin King and why they were both murdered in cold blood. The year 2014 will mark the 40th anniversary since the crimes occurred, and justice still has still not been served.

“Only God knows your soul and only He and only He has the last word.”

Charles Sargent “They had taken all I had; all that I held dear to me.”

Jerry Banks (last written words)

Memories from Fenway Park INTERVIEW WITH CODY ROSS

T SPOR HALE

One of my favorite inter-

views was two days after my 11th Birthday. We were in Boston and I had a chance to sit down with Cody Ross.

We talked about his favorite Ball Parks to play in, who he doesn’t like to face, what he does for pre and post game rituals and what he does on the road. As always I was not caught up in asking the Outfielder about his statics but more about his life in this candid interview.

Amongst other topics we discussed included: What Cody does for charity work, what his favorite animal is…. Also who is the biggest practical joker in the MLB…and much much more.

HALEY: Do you have a favorite ballpark and why? And is there a ballpark where you feel you always play well in?

CODY: Actually Fenway is a very exciting park with the most history. It is an exciting place to come to work every day. I really like Citizen’s Park in Philadelphia because it is such a great atmosphere.

HALEY: Where did you grow up?

CODY: I was born in New Mexico and moved to Dallas. I went back to New Mexico for high school and now I live in Arizona.

HALEY: Have you ever played any other position?

CODY: When I was younger in little league I played catcher and shortstop, which is kind of weird because I am a lefty. I was a pitcher in high school.

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

CODY: Aubrey Huff in San Francisco is the biggest practical joker. I have been a victim a few times, but don’t really remember the pranks. You always needed to be on your toes or else he would get you.

HALEY: Do you have any superstitions or rituals?

CODY: I don’t consider myself especially supersticious but then I will catch myself doing crazy things like if I get a hit or homerun and I am chewing a piece of gum, I’ll keep the same piece but if I get an out, then I’ll spit it out and get a new piece.

/ w P P-U A R TS W LOW IL M S EY ley Smilow Ha en Tru. Te ts Reporter r Jr. Spo 1 Age 1

HALEY: Do you have any pets, and what is your favorite animal?

CODY: I have two teacup yorkies named Bella and Bentley. It’s kind of crazy but I really like bulls. (After doing some research I discovered that his father was a bull rider.)

HALEY: What is your favorite thing to cook?

CODY: Anything Mexican. I really like Mexican food.

HALEY: At what age did you start playing baseball?

CODY: I started playing when I was four years old. My son who is five plays on a league and he loves it.

HALEY: Who was your favorite team growing up? Who where some of the players that you looked up to as a kid?

CODY: Growing up in Texas, my favorite team was the Texas Rangers. I looked up to Nolan Ryan and Ken Griffey Jr. HALEY: What do you do before a game when you are travelling?

CODY: All three!! Eat, sleep and shop.

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

CODY: Hockey and Rodeo. My favorite hockey team is the Bruins.

HALEY: What did you do this year during the off season?

CODY: I love to play golf and enjoy spending time with my family and relaxing.

HALEY: What types of community service or charity work are you involved in?

CODY: I enjoy spending time with kids and really enjoy working with them at baseball camps.

HALEY: If you were not playing baseball, what else could you see yourself doing?

CODY: That’s a good question!! I would probably have been a lawyer, which would be hard because you need to be very smart. (I’m not saying that I’m not smart!!)

HALEY: What was your favorite school subject?

CODY: I really enjoyed math because it came easy and I was good at it.

HALEY: Favorite Ballpark food?

CODY: Um, I guess I would have to say hotdog. The best hotdog would have to be the dodger dog!!

HALEY: What is your favorite flavor of ice cream.

CODY: I really like chocolate with all that stuff in it like caramel and peanut butter.

HALEY: Do you have a favorite kids book?

CODY: I always read “Goodnight Moon” to my kids at bedtime.

HALEY: What advice would you give to young players?

CODY: The number one piece of advise is to go out and enjoy yourself when playing the game because if it’s not fun then don’t do it.

Interview courtesy of Junior Baseball Magazine http://www.juniorbaseball.com/

L R PHOTO BY: Michael Benford

BY LYDIA KING

friction or drama that arises among our most talented stars and entertainers.

I

have seen, as I’m sure that many of you have, via the numerous You Tube videos, blogs and interviews circulating on the web, that there is BEEF in the industry between RL (formally of the group “Next”) and R & B group 112, as well as his former bandmates in “Next”.

I mean to be honest more often than not; seemingly there is always some type of

All I have to say about any supposed “beef ” with regard to RL aka “Mr. Butta Love” is that no matter what the “beef ” is (or was) I have only heard him respond in the most respectful of ways. And for that, I have to give this tremendously talented artist, a ton of respect!

He was born Robert Lavelle “R.L.” in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and is mostly noted for being the front man for R&B group “Next”. His duet with singer Deborah Cox on the song “We Can’t Be Friends” let the world know that not only was he here to “SANG” not sing, but that HE was also, here to stay!

After his initial debut with “Next” RL went to work on many more important projects, such as; soundtracks from movies like; “The Best Man”, “The Brothers” and much more. Very early on it was clear that he had created an artistic persona distinct and separate from the RL the world had come to know from the group he started out with.

I’ll let RL explain the “why” that contributed to his eventual split from “Next”, but it is when he went on a hiatus in 2002, that he began to focus on his solo career.

His first solo single release, “Good Love” (from “The Brothers” original soundtrack) was quite the departure from his group’s typically sexually

L

WHAT’S NEXT FOR MR. BUTA LOVE?

charged imagery and songs. In fact many of RL’s long-time fans were pleasantly surprised by the “switch up”. He then went on to collaborate with successful rappers like; Snoop Dogg, Lil’ Kim and Lil’ Zane, and to date has involved himself in numerous collaborations, projects and ventures. Let’s hear from the man himself to set the record straight and let the world in on what’s up today, with...Mr. Butta Love.

Tru: RL, it has been stated that you left the group Next for unknown reasons. Do you care to set the record straight now as to the real reasons why you left?

RL: Well, I will say this, first off, I never left! I look at a lot of Caucasian groups and European groups and they have different artists in their group that might have another group presenter, doing different things. I feel like Coca-Cola doesn’t just sell Coke, they have different products. Me, being an artist, I never wanted to put myself in one place to be one kind of an artist. So, even before we made it as a group, I have always had other ideas musically- that might not fit into therealm of what we were doing as a group.

For me, it has been hurtful because I’ve seen interviews and read interviews where they (“Next” band members) said that I wanted to do the solo thing, so you get the usual “oh you’ve got the big-headed artist, he wanted to go solo, he wants to do this”- when, the reality of it is, a majority of the albums that you’ve ever heard from “Next” were recorded with just me and the producers in the studio. We would get the records to my group members, and then they

PHOTO BY: Jazmyne Simmons

would record them.

So, the whole creative process actually didn’t usually involve them. Now I give them credit because they allowed me to do that. But, what happened over time was the audience, the labels, the fans, they looked at me as the lead singer of “Next,” which if you look on record, I’ve never called myself. But people have said, “Ok, you’re the lead singer,” but usually when you deal with an artist, if he’s a lead vocalist, he’s not usually the writer and arranger.

He’s not usually the person with the studio. He’s not usually the person that styles the group. He’s not always the face of the group. Me? I happen to be all those things! And, what happened is, early on when I was young, and didn’t know any better I would get things and have blessings come my way; and I wanted to share them with people. I had to realize that everybody is not going to be happy for you and that happened to be, my group members. They’re real brothers, biologically, but I am no relation to them. I love them but they decided to move on without me because making choices in life sometimes means you have to make decisions business-wise on what you will accept. Me, my choices in life, have given me the opportunity where I don’t have to accept certain things because my overhead or different things like that might not be the same.

Well, our issue was business.. They wanted me to take a certain amount to perform. I wouldn’t do it within the confines of the group. I will say there were times that they were asking me to perform for the amount I get by myself and I always knew that “Next” was bigger than RL regardless- I was just a branch from the tree.

So, it was really a business disagreement and they decided to replace me and they replaced me with the guy that I was actually cool with and he has been getting a lot of “flak” because they’re like, “that’s not RL.” He’s actually a really talented dude. My favorite saying is, “I wish them well, I just wish me better.”

My only issue is that they’re going around performing my show. I put that show together. A lot of the records that they’re performing, whether it be the Jaheim records that I wrote, things like that, they had nothing to do with. So, they actually took my show that we’ve had that I put together by myself and they’re going around performing it with my background vocals and everything still on the tracks.

PHOTO BY : Jason Taylor

If you don’t want me to be a part of the situation, then totally erase me from it and lastly, the name “Next” is mine. I came up with it. If you look back at interviews from 15, 16 years ago, they’ve admitted that!

So how can you kick me out of something that’s mine?!

I haven’t really spoken on it like this. It kind of is hurtful because I do have respect for my ex group members. Their children still call me. I love them. I look at them as my nieces and nephews. It’s just really messy. It’s hurtful to go on You Tube and look at these performances that they’re doing and hearing my voice and it not being on part of what the standard of “Next” is.

Tru: So considering everything that’s going on, are there going to be any lawsuits filed or anything like that?

RL: You know what? No. Umm…again, I wish them well because the truth is when they eat, my nieces and nephews eat. That’s how I view it.

Tru: That’s really big of you.

RL: Do I look at them the same? No. And, the last thing I will say on the situation is; we can argue as men but when it gets into physical threats and physically threatening texts, then it becomes a situation where I’m 36 years old- I’m beyond that. I’m a businessman. So, people ask me also; would you ever do another “Next” album and things like that?

To be honest, usually when I’m emotional or upset, I say no; but I’m a businessman. If it makes sense business-wise, then yes.

Tru: What or whom do you credit as the greatest driving force behind keeping you motivated and on track, even through your darkest hour?

RL: You know what… it’s hard to say because I’ve suffered from low self-esteem since I was five. I tried to end my life, as a senior in high school. And, I can honestly say of course; God, music and mostly my son. I had him when I was 18. I was a kid myself, but a lot of choices that I would have made, I thought about him in the back of my mind and didn’t make them, and I can honestly say that was a blessing.

It’s difficult in this industry for people to look at it like, “if you’re not in the limelight, what are you doing now?”

People don’t know of the behind the scenes work that I’ve done, and the foundation that I laid for my musical legacy-they have no idea.

I’ve been behind the scenes for over a decade, you know, assisting other artists. So what keeps me going of course is God, and my son, because I can honestly say that my family home base wasn’t what I wished it would be.

Tru: And that leads perfectly into my next question. You’ve differentiated between being an “artist” versus a So the hardest thing for me “singer”. Explain the biggest differto deal with is people walking ence between the two, in your mind. up to me and saying, “Do you still sing, so what are you do- RL: O.k,, a singer is somebody who’s ing now?” Not knowing that very talented and has a great voice,

maybe a great look or can dance or something like that. You have performers, you have artists, and you have singers. A performer is somebody that might not have the best voice but they can entertain you. They might be able to dance, have great stage presence, things like that, their aura. You have a great singer with a great voice. You give them a record,tell them where to stand,tell them what to wear and they can pull it off for you. An artist does all those things naturally. People don’t know that I; engineer, I record, I arrange, I write everything, I come up with concepts for videos and I style, different things like that.

An artist is somebody that does much more

than just the music. They have a vision and they can carry that vision out just like you would on a canvass with a paintbrush.

So I want to be able to take a vision I have in my mind and be able to let the world see it. Whether that’s through your ears, or through your eyes. That’s what an artist is to me.

Tru: So who would you say that you admire the most personally and professionally as far as other artists?

RL: It depends. I think Tank is underrated because he’s a great writer, producer, singer, all that. People don’t realize that he started out as Ginuwine’s musical director and all of a sudden, now he’s in a group with Ginuwine-and that’s amazing! But of course my favorite is J Moss. I consider myself an R&B version of J-Moss. Like, I really look up to him. Gospel-wise, I think his arrangements, everything about what he does is just amazing and I think that when you can take people that don’t necessarily listen to gospel and make them forget that is a gospel yet still give praise, that’s amazing and I think that he’s really powerful with that.

Tru: Agreed! If you could work with any musical artist, who would it be? Would it be J Moss?

RL: Probably Brandy, I love her voice. I think that she’s amazing. I think that people have dumbed her down and then you wonder why she hasn’t been as successful as she used to be. I think that too many people around her are studying the radio instead of letting her do what she does.

She’s one of the best vocalists of our time, one of the best artists of our time. I think that they’ve been giving her lollipop music when she should be singing caviar music.

Tru: Hmmm. Interesting perspective.

That said RL, what specifically about the current state of music do you dislike and how would you work to change it?

RL: You know what? It’s not even that I dislike it, but I can say that with white

artists, they treasure their artists.

You have Rod Stewart and Celine Dion and you know umm, everybody, The Rolling Stones, artists like that performing forever, making millions of dollars! Cher; all these people that aren’t necessarily the best vocalists. But you’ll have The O’Jays doing the “chitlin circuit” when these other big white artists are emulating them or took from “their” sound.

my publishing if I wanted to, but the truth is, true artists want more. They want to push the edge. I was just watching yesterday “The Men That Built America” on the History Channel. I couldn’t watch the whole series, but I found it so interesting that I had to buy it and download it, because it was so interesting to watch things about Rockefeller and Carnegie. I thought it was So I think that our treasure is the Carnegie because I thought of way to look for what’s new. I can go Carnegie Hall but it’s Carnegie through a meeting and I will see the and it was like I’m watching difference. I could go to a very big these interviews – not incorporate meeting and you might terviews but watching these have a guy drinking old scotch and stories about these powerful brandy and you will go to a younger men and I wanted to emulate meeting and cats are drinking the that. I want to be better. I want newest thing out and that drink more. isn’t necessarily “quality” at all, but, it’s, more expensive. But what And I think that’s the thing. they’re looking for out here is what’s I don’t want to be greedy and “new” (gimmick wise) instead of it’s not just for selfish reasons. what’s quality. I think that that’s the I want more because I want to biggest difference. help more people. I want to do more things. I want to touch Tru: Many would argue that you’ve more lives. I want to have already made it. What’s the meanmore of an impact. ing of success for RL and how has that definition changed over the Tru: So what can your fans years? expect from you in the future in terms of upcoming shows, RL: Well, you can’t be complacent. appearances, records, tour I think that if I walked around dates? I mean this may sound like I made it – because I probably like a silly question but I’m gocould live off of the residuals of ing to ask it anyway. Is there a

possibility of a “Next” reunion …ever?

RL: Well, you we actually had a whole Next album done 15 records. It’s in my studio in my computer right now. Who knows? Only God can

tell. Right now, do I feel like there would be? No, because there’s some bitterness in there. I can’t lie.

mixed tape this coming first.

I just want to make music.

I want to be heard and But I recorded over 80 it has been so long since records for my solo album people have heard my that’s coming. It’s called voice. They might have heard somebody else 5:15. I recorded like 30 records for the new EP/ singing my records but

hearing my voice I think is important.

But I didn’t want to come back “dumbing it down” and doing certain types of records just so I could get heard. I would rather lose by my rules than lose by someone else’s and then to

always wonder what would have happened if I would have really done it my way.

Tru: Where does the title 5:15 come from?

RL: I was born at 5:15 and I look at it like a rebirth. If you come to my home, you would not know an artist lived here unless you walked in my studio. I mean even my awards, people have had to convince me not to take them down. I don’t even want them up because I don’t live off of the accolades from the past. Everyday is like Groundhog Day. I wake up like it’s a new day. I get up at 5 o’clock Monday through Friday. I’m at the gym by 5:30 and then I’m in my studio.

People will hear hunger, it will be like I was born again. That’s what it will be like.

Tru: If you could leave our readers with anything – any statement that you believe in, that you stand by, that you live by, that you think might be able to help to better their lives, what would it be?

RL: Winners lose more than losers win. What I mean by that is I consider myself a winner. I’m going to take chances. I’m gonna to jump off the window ledge if I have to and there are going to be quite a few times that I land on the concrete,

break a leg, sprain an ankle but I will at least know that I took the chance. I jumped at the opportunity.

A lot of times, people lose because they’re complacent. They don’t go for it. I’m going to go for it. I’m going to push the envelope. When people hear my music, I want them to go, “Wow-o.k! Even if you don’t like it, you know that I put my thought, my heart, my everything into it. And you will know that I gave my all.

He’s on Twitter, Facebook and all over the internet! If you aren’t already doing it, we suggest that the world Google and follow this very talented and inspiring artist. He’s one of a kind and clearly…a FORCE to be reckoned with!

Big up’s to RL for giving us this world EXCLUSIVE with him and Keepin it TRU!

“If you don’t want me to be a part of the situation, then totally erase me from it and lastly, the name “Next” is mine”.

Advertise your Business Did you know that you can advertise your business Event or product on the Tru. Entertainment Magazine website; www.truentmagazine.com for less than $50.00 a month?

We’ve got almost 2 million viewers throughout the United States including readers in over 50 different countries around the world. This is your chance to become one of the BIG FISH. Place your ad this month and receive an additional 10% off of our already low prices. It’s YOUR time, what are you waiting for?! Email your inquiry to; truentmagazine@gmail.com for additional information while there is space.

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TRU.- STRAIGHT FROM THE U.K.

The Delray Rockets By: Khalid Ahmed

T

he Delray Rockets are a 3 piece Rockabilly Band hailing from Central England U.K. Formed by a group of Rockabilly renegades wanting to push Rockabilly to another level, or “Up a gear”... to coin a phrase.

They felt the Music scene needed a new band with a driving force but an old familiar sound; they formed this 3 piece outfit to prove their point. The Delray Rockets music has a strong ‘50’s Influence, but with a very modern style, although not taking away the basic roots from the original sound.

A Delray Rockets gig is an electric high energy show, with twists and turns to its music featuring a full powered stage show. They play kick ass music with a serious attitude.

A Delray Rockets gig is full of energy and good fun; you’ll leave feeling exhausted from the energy these guys exude.

A real pleasure to photograph, great lads and The Delrays, once seen- NEVER forgotten.

EVEN THE STRAY CATS WOULD BE PROUD.....

D

George A. Santino

azzling fans from coast to coast George A. Santino is focused, driven and passionate about his love of music and always has been! He brings us back that “Rat Pack” nostalgia that so many long for! That magical music that takes you back to a better time. George is looking forward to a memorable 2014! He is working on many new musical projects as well as looks forward to finishing up his book.

He started out doing many Sinatra covers but is proud to be writing his own songs and performing them at various venues in the Seattle area. He hopes to make it to perform in Vegas and other select cities in the near future. George left the “Rat Race” for the “Rat Pack” and couldn’t be happier. He is finally living the dream!

Originally from the Philly projects, surrounded by abject poverty and crime, Santino wanted better for himself. He vowed he would be a success and would let nothing stop him. Santino’s love of music started at a young age. Despite the school of hard knocks, this singer, writer, and motivational speaker managed to pick himself up, dust himself off, and get back in the race, just like Frank Sinatra’s classic, “That’s Life.”

George was destined to succeed.

Most musicians hold down a day job to pay the bills. At night, it’s their time to play. George A. Santino did just the opposite. An aspiring singer and a natural on the stage, Santino shelved that dream for years to provide for his family.

He couldn’t have picked a better profession than Microsoft, where he first started out as an entry-level lab engineer. In 20 years, Santino worked his way up to become a partner — amazing, seeing as Microsoft only had barely 1,000 at that time. He was able to retire with the kind of security most working jazz musicians could only dream of. George’s wife and kids couldn’t be more proud!

In addition to his musical career, George is working on his memoirs to be published in his upcoming book in 2014. Although currently living the dream, George feels extremely blessed. George has a unique American story to tell that will inspire others to never give up on their dreams!

After leaving Philadelphia George grew up in Tampa,

Florida. He looks forward to spending more time in Tampa during the winter months. He is very grateful for all the support he has received from the Tampa Bay are over the years. George graduated from Leto High School in 1974.

Most of George’s family still resides there so he still considers Tampa home and loves it when it gets the time to visit the Bay area.

“Singer and author George A. Santino is magical. A hybrid of jazz and inspirational. Amazing production, instrumentation and vocals.

Powerful messages sealed with a searing crisp voice. Mr. Santino should be quite busy during the holidays with his soothing sounds and soulful melodies. This veteran also has been at it for quite some time; and it’s quite obvious with his apparent control and lyrical content. This artist’s extreme marketability, charisma and talent will most likely land him a gig singing a jingle or two on someone’s daytime talk show. His sophistication and grace has earned him a spot on our 360 Watch List. “ stated 360 magazine.

www.bullzeyeent.com

His latest single titled “As The One That Got Away” hit number 1 on the Hot New Releases chart for Easy Listening on Amazon. com. The single is being played nationwide on FM radio stations such as WIIZ Augusta, KIX St Louis,103.1 Houston and many more.

Politics What’s Going On? As the ‘60s came to a close, Marvin Gaye was forced to ask some serious questions about the world as he found it; the result was the sublimely soulful piece of social commentary, ‘What’s Going On’. Today we are still asking the same question and have been for some time now.

When we look at politics from its earliest times we find corruption in the agendas being implemented above the needs of the people. In our own country we have elitist who benefit from the people and yet do nothing of any significance for the people.

In our own country, the United States of America, politics has become a huge money maker for those who have given their lives over to that system. The median wealth of a House member in 2009 stood at $765,010, while the median wealth for a senator in 2013 was nearly $2.38 million. While the base pay for members of Congress is $174,000, nearly half -- 261, to be exact -- are millionaires, according to an analysis of 2009 data from the Center for Responsive Politics (there are 535 total members of the House and Senate). Just 1 percent of Americans overall can say the same. This system promises them an easy living, influence and a ladder to climb all the way to the white house.

It was Thomas Jefferson who said: “A government big enough to give you everything you want, is strong enough to take everything you have.”

It seems that we are living in such a day! Big government, big taxes and big spending; this is what we have seen from every administration for some time now.

It was mark twain that said: “If you don’t read the newspaper you are uninformed; if you do read the newspaper you are misinformed.”

I feel that the people of our country as well as others have been deceived and lulled asleep by media spin feeding us exactly what they want us to hear. In the meantime our taxes keep rising, we are losing more liberties every day and our country is sinking deeper into debt every day! Yet, while all of this is going on we are still being told that the economy is on a rebound. They are lying to our faces while they try to keep alive the system that has put us into this predicament in the first place!

I recall a quote from a recognized historic figure, he said: “Make the lie big, make it simple, keep saying it, and eventually they will believe it.” ~Adolph Hitler The only comparison that I am making of our politicians is to the above quote.

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

This is exactly what has been happening in our country. Day after day the media and those who can afford it keep dishing out to us what it is we should believe on any given subject, from religion to politics to economics just to name a few.

It was Winston Churchill that stated: “I contend that for a nation to try to tax itself into prosperity is like a man standing in a bucket and trying to lift himself up by the handle”.

Well can I get an Amen! It completely blows me away that from the president on down they will just straight faced lie to the American public, expecting us to believe these deceptions forever!

Well guess what? People are beginning to tune into the truth of what is actually happing to our country and they are not going to stand for

it anymore! I believe so much of our political system needs to be revamped and brought up to date in order to better serve the needs of the people. After all, isn’t the political system set in place to protect and represent the interest of its people?

Shouldn’t our politicians be addressing the needs of their people to those of power in Washington?

I believe we need to get rid of lobbyist who fill the pockets of our politicians and cause them to vote in a manner that is conducive to the corporations that wine and dine them. It is absurd to me that we see such grotesque violations and yet watch our representatives do nothing! On the other hand, why should they when they just continue to get rich doing exactly what the big corporations and industries pay them to do…nothing that would truly benefit “We the People” We should vote them all out and make people who want to run for any political office,

qualify for such a position. Today the person who wins the election is the one who has the most financial backing. Can we get any more stupid then this?

I do believe that we should be involved in government, but from the stand point of rebuilding it and making the necessary adjustments and changes that will cause true reform. The burden is on us to raise our children outside of this current matrix that so many people are caught up living in.

This is part of the reason for the Enjoy Life Movement. We desire to put into video, print and any type of communication to help our young ones view things from a different perspective. A new set of paradigms’ that will help shape a brave new world of love and acceptance for all band-

ing together as one to help address the problems and needs of our fellow brother and sister.

It was Abraham Flexner who said: CONT’ ON PAGE 29

“TEAM ATOC PHOTOGRAPHY is the vehicle to ensure a safe trip from your vision to your reality. We bridge the gap between photographers, models, and other unique artist.”

“What Is TEAM ATOC PHOTOGRAPHY & TEAM ATOC MODELS”? TEAM ATOC MODELS is a TEAM designed to complement personal photography and modeling opportunities.

Where there are conventional fees attached to photo shoots, portfolio building, fashion shows, events, and private parties, photo editing/manipulation, magazine submissions, and more, TEAM ATOC MODELS have the privilege of having me, Guthrie Bonnett and My TEAM of hair stylists; Ajae Northington, MUA- Whitney Moses, and Graphic Designer- Dyron Donaldson help to make your photographic experiences sophisticated, engineered, and holistically affordable.

We also have a TEAM of other photographers, videographers, djs, caterers, wedding planners, and travel agents to make your goals reachable and affordable. I am grateful for those that show love and support for my particular style of photography. There are others that make what I do interesting and a smoother transition towards completing each photographic task we encounter. There are other photographers and videographers that complement the style of “Photos

By A Taste Of Chicago”- giving them an open door to promoting their skill set and passion for this art-medium. I would like to take this moment to introduce “TEAM ATOC PHOTOGRAPHY.” Our TEAM now has a Chicago Based Photography and Media Studio. The studio owner also doubles as part of the Media TEAM for TEAM ATOC PHOTOGRAPHY, and we are grateful to have his skill set working in harmony with our task and goals. Rod Antonio Montgomery has done photography, videography, and training for our Media TEAM. We are pleased with the studio space; “The Motive Studio”, which he provides for the calculated photographic opportunities needed for our current and potential clientele. We are proud of our TEAM ATOC MODELS HAIR STYLIST- Ajae Northington. Ajae makes our models look “Flawless” and I’m grateful for his commitment and loyalty to our TEAM. Our TEAM ATOC MODELS MUA (Make Up Artist)- Whitney Moses has proven herself to be trust worthy when it comes to skin care and beautification. She is currently portfolio building with us, but reminds us regularly that “TEAM WORK makes your DREAM WORK.”

We currently have a Graphic Designer that recently joined our TEAM WEAPONARY- Dyron Donaldson.

Our team also works with many other wonderfully talented photographers that make availability and accuracy possible. Although there are a ton of photographers that have helped me personally, I would like to introduce the few that claim TEAM ATOC PHOTOGRAPHY as a part of their personal platforms; TEAM ATOC PHOTOGRAPHERS- Douglas Gladney, Jerome Jerry Lynch, and Steve “TDKL” Mccullough.

This is not a management company, but we support and share resources that make your transition easier. Very few have the support needed to get the experience and notoriety for access to the next level. If the direction you’re headed in with your modeling career, family occasions, or hobby requires the attention of a personal photography TEAM, and you like our personal style of photography, 2014 is a great year to get your train on track! Consider joining the Loyal TEAM ATOC MODELS within

TEAM ATOC PHOTOGRAPHY. For additional information call Guthrie Bonnett (TEAM ATOC) at 773-656-0789.

This promotional ad has been paid for and is sponsored by: TEAM ATOC PHOTOGRAPHY

I

’m Whitney, I’m a female model residing in Chicago.

I’ve been modeling since the summer of 2012, and 2013 has been a wonderful year so far ! My reason for modeling is that modeling is a great way to express one’s own beauty.

Although modeling has always been a goal of mine, it is not my only specialty. My passion for expressing myself and my art is more so through makeup. Being a makeup artist is one of my favorite forms of expressing art and also beauty. I have a love for making people feel beautiful and good about themselves. I feel makeup is a tool to make anyone feel beautiful and give them the confidence needed to feel whole.

I’ve recently joined forces with Guthrie Bonnett, who is known as ATOC (A taste of Chicago) as a “TEAM ATOC MODEL” and, as the official MUA for TEAM ATOC MODELS. ATOC has given me the opportunity to work with his TEAM. I love his passion and dedication to photography, and TEAM WORK. He’s shown me what TEAM WORK is about. I’m more than grateful to be a part of TEAM ATOC. I plan to advance in both modeling and as a MUA, I want the world to see my thoughts, my creativity, my passion in the form of art and beauty. and beauty.

I

am a 22 year old hair stylist who has grown to learn the life of business and being a true professional. Being a stylist from the inner city of Chicago has allowed me to be exposed to great people in the hair world and the beauty industry i.e. models, agents, makeup artist, and photographers. While on this journey for better exposure I became acquainted with Guthrie also known as “ATOC” (A Taste of Chicago). His drive for TEAM Work has motivated me as a stylist, to continue this journey with confidence, honor, and pride.

I’ve been styling hair for 6 years. I started out cutting mens hair, and then began styling women as well. Hair is more than just a job to me, it’s an art, and it helps me to bring the way someone wants to look in their mind-to reality, and accomplishing that is magic in every way. Making my clients happy is very important.

I am a very versatile stylist. I can create something out of nothing so anything is possible.

Changing the way that my clients look at themselves, is what I strive to do each time. The name of my business is “Flawless Hairr” and that’s what I want my clients to feel when they leave the chair simply… “FLAWLESS.”

ON BLAST

r o n i M w o h s x i

M r M i r Ave

.J.

TTEST D

A’S HO AMERIC

Syndicated Mixshow, having placements on an average of 10 radio stations a week on both traditional and internet broadcast outlets that include WMNX Coast 97.3FM (Wilmington, NC) The Streets 89.1FM (Miami, FL) With his clever choice in blends techniques are what keeps him motivated to keep listeners ears ringing and the masses begging for more.

In recent years, Averi’s potential to be a major influence in the DJ field was recognized by the founder & brainchild of one of the most influential organizations

Never one to pass up an opportunity to leave a

lasting impression, Averi Minor’s passion in his field can only be compared to that of a man with unlimited ambitions.

To his credit, beyond radio, DJ Averi Minor has served as tour dj for Award-winning songstress, Syleena Johnson & is currently the official DJ for up-and-coming artist, Dave Pracyse. Minor has also participated in groundbreaking events such as Vibe Magazine Miami Pool Party Concert, opening DJ for Snoop Dogg & Lil Wayne at Chicagos House Of Blues.Averi now holds mixshow slots with various stations that include Power 96.5FM (Lansing, MI), Shade 45 Sirius/XM and is also founder & half of the DJ radio mixshow duo, The Beamer Bros. who can be heard on The Beamer Bros. National

for DJs to date, Tony Neal, head of The Core DJs Worldwide and was invited to Core as a part of it’s on-going search for elite DJs across the globe. Averi contends that his style stands alone and will be entertaining audiences for a long time. One thing feels is certain, his love for the art of Djing is unmatched DJ Averi Minor Mixshow/Mixtape DJ MP3 Address: mrmixshowspins@gmail.com Twitter.com/DJAveriMinor

Tru: What gave you that initial push?

My dad was a DJ and at the age of 13 after watching him do it as a hobby, I fell in love with music and the art of controlling music and pursued it from high school and on through my adult years.

Tru: Who’s throwing the best parties at the moment?

I have to say Debonaire up in Minneapolis considerably because he doesnt just throw parties for one lane of people. Weather its new school, old school, hip hop, R&B or comedy, i feel he has that covered. If I had to say anyone else, my guy Don Ski, in Chitwon also throws great parties as well.

Tru: What’s the best event you’ve played at/put on?

I was opening DJ for the first Sneaker Pimps Tour in Chicago which was headlined by Slick Rick and Jeru The Damaja. I grew up buying these guys’ records so to share the same stage same space with them was phenomenal.

Tru: Out of all the tracks you have, which one ‘never fails?’

M.O.P. - “Ante Up” is a true party rocker. People dont seem to understand the impact this record has on different walks of life. If there is a dead party this one gets it going quick.

Tru: What’s you favorite track of all time?

There isn’t one in particular that I can think of. I have favorites from James Brown to Nas to Mary J to Jay-Z. There is no one song I can really say is my favorite.

Tru: When the partying is over how do you like to chill ?

Usually I’m chillin with friends and reflecting on the night. My friends and I are true comedians and at times we will all have a different story to tell abut the night from a different angle. Its like reading a movie script sometimes LOL. Tru: What is the funniest thing that ever happened at an event?

I hired a couple of up and coming comedians to host an event I was throwing with a business partner based off of how funny they were on my radio show when I interviewed them. Needless to say, when they hosted the event they bombed....I MEAN BAD! So between my DJs throwing the music on and me giving them the Apollo Sandman treatment, it was funny to see a comedian clowned by the crowd they were trying to make fun of. I should have felt bad but.. nah.

Tru: So how is the scene in your eyes at the moment?

Overall is very repetitive. There are very few things to gain from the DJ scene at the moment unless you are, like myself, expanding your role beyond DJing. Music wise the scene is coming together simply because of how R&B is making a strong comeback and how Hip Hop

is evolving slowly but surely back to the “boom bap” era of hard beats and concepts. May sound boring for today’s youth but after my travels a majority of the world is ready for that change.

Tru: What advice would you give to up and coming DJs? Remain loyal to your identity and where you aspire to be.

There will be plenty of people around to lessen your impact and importance but the most important thing is knowing your worth and what you mean to music. Musicians make the music but it’s the DJ that keeps the public aware of whats good and whats not. Any artist, musician, promoter, A&R or manager will tell you this is what’s true...even if they want to lie about it. With that said, be responsible and creative and let God take the wheel.

Crawl, Walk, Shoot William d’Anthony

The in’s and out’s of Indie Filmmaking Over the past 20 years I have worked in the Television and Film Industry. In those years there have been tremendous changes in the way films are produced and the technological advances that help filmmakers bring their visions to fruition. These advances have also opened a flood gate to anyone who wants to be a filmmaker. However, the art of storytelling is vital and essential, in order to captivate your audience’s attention. My column is geared towards those that have a strong interest in filmmaking and are looking to pursue this career path.

Knowing how to read and write a script is crucial to honing your craft as a filmmaker.

Besides knowing how to tell a story you also have to be able to format it correctly.

The industry standard for script writing is Final Draft. Of course if you are just starting out this could be a pricey investment, but one that will save a lot of hassle down the road. Why you ask, because Final Draft has several file formats that work with other industry standard programs that handle scheduling and payroll. However, if you want to get your feet wet try Celtx’s screen writing program. There is a free download on their website www.celtx.com Once you have script you would like to shoot, the fun begins. Depending on the type of script, i.e., short film, feature, horror, drama, comedy, etc.; you will need to determine what it would cost.

If you are taking the no budget approach, you have to be respectful of people’s time if they are volunteering to help bring your project to life.

But with the creation of crowd funding websites, you can actually raise money to shoot your film (we will go into that more at a later time).

Getting cast and crew could be a difficult depending on where you live, but there are talented people out there. As far as shooting formats, 24 FPS (Frames Per Second) at 1080p is the standard in the United States.

With the introduction of Ultra HD the camera you use is key, not only in its versatility, but longevity of your film. If you can shoot with a 4k camera, then do so at a 4k resolution. In 2014 you will see more 4k TV’s and less expensive 4K Cameras. Now if you are just starting out, again, just use what you can get your hands on. But make sure you are at least shooting in 1080p at 24 fps. As far as editing, there are a number of software programs you can use, Avid, Final Cut Pro, Adobe Premiere, etc.

I will go in to more detail in following issues. If you have any questions or would like me to speak on a particular topic email me at Williamd@ Truentmagazine.com

Politics What’s Going On? “Probably, no nation is rich enough to pay for both war and civilization. We must make our choice; we cannot have both.”

And on that note why don’t we stop all this empire building around the globe and lets bring our troops home and thereby freeing up income and resource that we desperately need right now. Why don’t we just allow these nations to govern themselves? I am not opposed to humanitarian aid in proper situations but they should be allowed to work through the struggle that every nation has had to go through in the forming of their country.

I certainly do not position myself as an expert however a lot of this stuff is simple. It’s just plain common sense but even that is something that is truly in a deficit today.

So get involved at some level and make a difference. We desperately need a revolution in consciousness and culture. It begin with you and me, let’s elevate, to higher plain of living and leadership.

Remember it was once said: Just because you do not take an interest in politics doesn’t mean politics won’t take an interest in you!

-Pericles (430 B.C.) We hang the petty thieves and appoint the great ones to public office.

Aesop

Think about it!

George Aja