Tru / Issue 12

CONTENT WWW.TRUENTMAGAZINE.COM

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Nafisa, The African Cinderella

DJ D.I.M.E Reality T.V. and…the Real

World

TRU IM A NEW BREED

d

The World of....Angela James

Shekina Moore LOOKING OUR BEST

Derich’s Story…

MAGE GROUP D OF REALITY T.V.

Remembering Baseball’s African-American Pioneers

By Haley Smilow

55 48 63 65

KAREN J. LARSON

GOING PLACES IN THE INDUSTRY

Wearer of many hats, Karen jug-

gles raising her kids (or bear cubs as she calls them), working for Tru. as an editor/ reporter, and bringing the funny to local and touring stages throughout the Midwest. She continues to hone her craft, whether it be as a host of a music awards show or as a feature comedian in town or on the road.

Karen has also worked as producer and host of an internet radio tv show titled ‘Gook Talk Live’ which is a mix of comedy, skits, guest cohosts, talk, and music. The show is currently on hiatus as Syndicate is in talks with Xfinity to obtain their own network channel. Negotiations are looking very promising and Karen hopes to be back on the air

by Fall of 2013. Stay tuned. ‘Gook Talk Live’ is coming soon to Cable TV! Karen’s first radio exposure came from guest appearing on HTLA’s Sex and the Kitty, which led to her work at KFAI, which has allowed Comedian Karen Larson to bring her brand of giggles to the late nite airwaves via the Lennie Chism Show. KFAI has given Karen the opportunity to share in the tradition of the founders 35 years ago.

In other words, her comedy is very censored at KFAI. Karen continues to guest co-host from time to time on the show. According to Lennie Chism, “Karen is a great addition to have stop by when our schedules permit!”

Check out Karen’s daily tweets via Twitter @onefunnygook and if she makes you laugh (and we are confident she will), ‘Like’ her on Facebook at Fan Page of Comedian Karen J. Larson.

Nafisa, The African Cinderella

by Karen Larson THE REVIEW

Carlton Leake

Recently, I had the pleasure of attending an impromptu reading of a new musical tale created by composer and playwright, Carlton Leake titled Nafisa: The African Cinderella, a twist on the classic tale of Cinderella performed at the Capri Theater in North Minneapolis. This presentation was directed and choreographed by Patdro Harris and hosted by Capri Theater’s Artistic Associate, Dennis Spears. It was free and open to the public. Roughly 50+ people were in attendance not including the performers.

The cast included some of the Twin Cities’ most talented performers: Jevetta Steele (Queen Nafitari), Jamecia Bennett (Betty Sue aka Nafisa), Austene Van (Bunkie Mae), T. Mychael Rambo (Lord Babu), Mikell Sapp (Paki), Aimee Bryant (Della Rae), Julian Leake (Prince Chika), Regina Marie Williams (Lady Zelda), Ron Collier (Khufu), Kennedy Hurst (Reader of Actions) and Antonio Duke (Chorus).

At first glance, the stage looked more like it was set for an orchestral performance than a stage play, but with help of the reader of actions,

Kennedy Hertz, along with a little help from our imaginations, the setting was magically transformed into 18th Century Egypt infused with modern day, and complete with African dialect.

At the start, Prince Chika (Julian Leake) returns home for a visit and is informed the time has come for him to take his father’s place as King of Kajube. He is instructed by his mother, Queen Nafitari (Jevetta Steele) he is to take a wife at the Royal Ball. Upon hearing this, Prince Chika wonders how he is supposed to meet, fall in love, and ask a girl to marry him within a couple of hours? After debating this with his mother, who reminds him through song that everybody needs someone to love, he decides to invite all single common women to the Royal Ball to add to the pool of potential brides. That is where he eventually meets and falls in love with Betty Sue aka Nafisa (Jamecia Bennett), whom is later kidnapped by her evil step family, stripped of her clothing, and left for dead in the desert Although each actor brought something different, noteworthy standouts include Jamecia Bennett as Betty Sue aka Nafisa and Julian Leake as Prince Chika. The comedic timing of Lord Babu (T. Mychael Rambo) and The Evil Stepsisters, Bunkie Mae (Austene Van) and Della Rae (Aimee Bryant) were impeccable, and their acting chops undeniable.

Nafisa: The African Princess is a realistic love story about a young woman named Betty Sue who overcomes many hardships and struggles most of which are credited to her evil stepmother, Lady Zelda (Regina Marie Williams) and stepsisters. It is also a story of forgiveness, as Betty Sue aka Nafisa later begs for the mercy of her stepfamily. In a nutshell, it’s about finding the rhythm of love and maintaining it.

Nafisa: The African Princess is a musical theatre per-

formance which encompasses various genres of R & B, hiphop, pop, gospel, jazz, rock and classical.

THE CAST

Jamecia Bennett

Javita Steele

Austene Van

Most notable solo came from Nafisa when she sang “It’s been a long time coming.” I’m telling y’all... this girl can sing!

There were several notable quotes, but one that resonated for me was when Queen Nafitari tells Prince Chika “Your father broke tradition when he married me.” It was a surprise not only to Prince Chika but to the rest of us, as well. Queen Nafitari was not of royal blood when she wed his father, which gave him permission to do the same.

The presentation started 20 minutes late, but the host and director both made an announcement letting us know some of the performers had just flown in to town and were running late. There was also a 5 minute intermission.

Keep in mind this was an impromptu cold read for the actors. In other words, it was the first time any of them had seen the script. Aside from starting late, my only criticism was that during some of the pre-recorded songs, the performers lip-synced instead of singing live which, in my opinion, detracted from the overall performance.

Aside from that, it was very enjoyable. And I left feeling fired-up to see the play in it’s final form.

Given the fact this play is based on reality versus fairy tale and is set in modern times with some added African flavor, it would be a funny twist if in lieu of using a glass slipper, Prince Chika substituted fitting a pair of Jordans on his bride-to-be.

After the reading, all were invited to share in celebrating the day with cake in honor of Dennis Spears’ 39th birthday. The cake was delicious. I had two pieces just to be certain of this fact.

I had the great honor of speaking with composer and playwright, Carlton Leake, who spoke very highly of Patro Harris, proclaiming him as ‘an exceptional director both with regard to the musical and physicality of staging and choreography.’ Carlton also noted they have worked together for 14 years. Nafisa: The African Cinderella is their fourth creative endeavor together.

At the time of the reading, there were no costumes. Production staff is in the process of trying to secure funding from organizations and/or theater donations in order to begin making costumes, props, and sets. They are also trying to secure a venue to debut Nafisa: The African Cinderella in it’s final form.

In related news, Carlton Leake has been commissioned

by The Ensemble Theater in Houston, TX to write a new Christmas musical. The title is “Djembe and the Forest of Christmas Forgotten”. It will have its world premiere in November of this year. Patdro Harris is also the Director and Choreographer of this new musical.

For more information about this upcoming show and/or if you would like to make a donation toward the production of Nafisa: The African Cinderella, please contact Dennis Spears, “Legends” Artistic Director for the Capri Theater. 612-643-2030 or dspears@pcyc-mpls.org

T. Mychael Rambo

Aimee Bryant

In the Kitchen with Fox Deserts by Sharon

FR

RESH STRAWBERRY SORBET Clean and quarter 3 pints fresh Strawberries.

Sprinkle with 1/3 cup sugar and 2 tablespoons of limoncello.

Stir and set aside for about 20 minutes to allow flavors to combine.

Puree with an immersion blender or in a regular blender.

Place a strainer over the frozen bowl of an ice cream maker, then press through to remove seeds.

Process for 20 - 30 minutes until frozen.

SHARON’SOUTHERN POUND CAKE 3 cups swan down cake flour

BY SHARON FOX

2 tsp. baking powder 2 stick butter, softened 1/2 cup crisco 3 cups sugar 5 eggs 1 1/4 cups milk 1/4 cup bourbon or apple cider 2 tsp. vanilla extract Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Grease and flour a ten inch bundt cake pan.

Combine the flour and baking powder and set aside. In a stand mixer, combine the butter and crisco. Add about one cup of the sugar and mix until creamy and smooth. Add the remaining sugar and mix until smooth and creamy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Mix in about one fourth of the flour mixture. Add about half of the milk and mix just until combined. Add another fourth of the flour and mix to combine. Mix in the rest of the milk followed by another fourth of the flour.

Stir in the bourbon or apple cider and then the last of the flour. Beat after each addition just until smooth. Stir in the vanilla and mix well. Pour bat-

ter into prepared pan. Bake at 325 degrees for 1 hour to 1 hour 10 minutes, until golden brown and toothpick comes out clean.

GLAZE: In a medium saucepan, over medium-high heat, stir together: 3/4 cup Dark Brown Sugar 1/4 cup Light Corn Syrup 1/2 cup Water Stir until sugar dissolves. Increase heat to high and stop stirring. Allow caramel to boil for 6 minutes.

Remove from heat and gently whisk in: 3/4 cup Heavy Cream Be careful because caramel will bubble up quickly.

When caramel is thoroughly blended, whisk in 2 Tablespoons Bourbon.

While caramel sauce is still warm, poke holes in cake with a long bamboo skewer and twirl slightly to create holes for the caramel to soak into the cake.

Brush cake all over with caramel glaze.

I have heard it said “you can have what you say” and though that is not an absolute statement there is certainly a lot of truth in it. We must understand the seriousness of the words we use in our daily lives.

Some of the synonyms for speak are: Articulate, converse, verbalize. These words begin to give us an idea of the activity and purpose of this action called “speak it”.

When we articulate something we are bringing forth an explanation of an action or thing or mindset to someone else. We fail to realize that when we engage our mouth into action we are articulating who we are and how we feel and where we are presently in our mental, physical and spiritual health.

When we look at the definition of the word “speak” it reveals a few things: To express thoughts To express opinions To express feelings So then: when we are talking, we are involved in the process of revealing what we think on any subject. When we speak we are exposing our opinions and when we speak we are allowing our feelings or emotions to be known by those who listen. Remember this could be a good thing or a bad thing, it all depends on what is on the inside of you.

So why should we be concerned about speaking the thing we desire? Well, we must first come

S P E A K

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

I he Enjoy Life Movement T

to terms that much of what we are presently experiencing is a direct result of what we have spoken in our past. You see we do not treat words with the importance they deserve. Somehow we have been fooled into thinking that the old nursery rhyme is true, “Sticks and stones … but words will never hurt me”, but the truth is words do hurt and when they are released into your environment they create an atmosphere you will have to live in.

A healthy way to view and understand words are through the world of agriculture. We must begin by seeing words as the seeds we plant, our mind as the ground they are planted in and our lives as the field where those seeds will eventually be harvested. When we think in terms of words being seeds allow yourself to be the farmer that is going to select the proper seeds for the particular harvest he is going to expect. Wouldn’t it be foolish for a farmer to plant corn seed and expect to reap a harvest of beans? What’s the problem? Well let’s see, he was diligent to sow his seeds, he went through the different process to see them come to maturity and yet he did not get what he was expecting. I know, I can hear you now pointing out the obvious…‘it was the seeds he planted!’ Exactly, you got it!

You see the problem in your life could just very well be a seed problem. If you keep planting the wrong seeds and expecting different results you will only be disappointed time after time. Start sowing the seeds that are connected to the harvest you desire. What did you

dream? What did you envision? And what did you put up on that vision board of yours? Start speaking about those things to your family, friends, and co-workers and frankly to any one that will listen. That’s right put it out their let everyone know you will not live a mundane mediocre life.

You my friend are going to reach for the stars and live the dream in your heart. It can really happen! Begin right now to speak out loud what you desire and what you want to achieve. Get comfortable hearing yourself saying it and then get confident enough to share it with others. Remember you’re a farmer and you have the seeds within you to reap the harvest you desire. If you do not like what you have been eating change what you’re planting. Words have power and they will come to pass, count on it.

Steps for “speaking it” 1)Get rid of negative verbiage.

2)Surround yourself with positive people.

3)Speak positive for one month consecutively.

4)Start speaking what you desire.

5)Share it with others.

6)Look for your harvest it’s on the way!

“Write it down” When I speak of writing something down I am specifically addressing the issue of developing a plan or better yet, a strategy. You see most people fail to plan and because they fail to plan they fail in the thing they desire.

So what do you desire? Is it being in better shape? Starting a new business? Getting out of debt or planning for retirement, whatever your dream know for sure you will have to write it down.

Let’s begin on how to start with this process: 1) Begin with the end in mind.

Many people think that they need to start at the beginning, I consider that a fatal mistake. Remember your dream, your desire, the thing that you’re passionate about. This is the starting point. Why is this so important?

You might ask. Along the journey I guarantee you that you will be faced with numerous obstacles, no one is immune to this. Everybody who has accomplished anything in life has had to face adversity and decide to conquer it or find a way around it.

Be assured the driving force that will eventually get you to your desired end will not be your tenacity, your drive or even your intellect but rather your desired end and the passion that you have for that dream.

So take out a piece a paper or turn on your computer and write it down!

I know want you to think in terms of taking the steps necessary to accomplish your goal. Along the way every action you take will add to your progress or detract from it. I once heard a carpenter say “measure twice cut once” I never knew how powerful this statement was until I took on a project that required me to work with wood. I learned very quickly the power of this principal.

It became very real because each time I failed to measure correctly it cost me two very valuable things, time and money. This wisdom principle of “Measuring twice and cutting once translates into any endeavor you might take on.

Empowerment Principles: 1 )Write your dream down first.

2) Do the necessary research.

3)Collect the data and write a business plan. (Invest in a simple software for business plans and follow the procedures.

4) I recommend reading “Ten things you should know before you quit your job” Authored by Robert Kiyosaki 5) Be patient and stick to the plan and do not be afraid to adjust it if necessary.

Now that we have covered these imperative principles to daily living; seeing it, speaking it and writing it down we need to implement these paradigms on the daily. Make sure you get your next issue of tru Magazine as I will be covering the next teaching in this series entitled “Getting on with it”.

Until then... remember to enjoy life.

Radiant Glow Writer, Fashionista, Entrepreneur & CEO of Indie Artist Circle Managment www.indieartistcircle.com

sues a chemical peel will be your best option to get your skin even, clear and glowing. There are many peels, glycolic acid, vita peel, jessner’s peel, and

salicylic acid. Trust, I’ve tried them and will let you know about each: Jessner’s peel; contains salicylic acid, lactic acid, resorcinol, this is my least favorite due to the excessive peeling after. I would only recommend this if you have deep pigmentation problems on your face otherwise it really defeats the purpose. Next let’s discuss the newest peel, the vita peel; which is made up of alpha-hydroxy acid, beta-hydroxy acid, retinoic acid, and resorcinol. I tried this for the first time back in February. The aesthetician told me there would be some peeling, but she has used it on people of color with good results. Vita peel decreases fine lines, regenerates collagen, evens skin tones, reduces acne scars, improves overall texture of skin and making it appear more healthier. I debated because I had my birthday event the next day and didn’t want my skin to be peeling during it. After much thought I decided to try it. I didn’t peel until the fourth or fifth day, and it was just on my chin area. I followed the instructions she gave me, which was to baby the skin and not pick at it when it starts to peel. Let me tell you, now my skin is soft and glowing. It is a good option especially for people of color. I highly recommend it. Another peel is the salicylic peels; which are for those with extreme acne to help penetrate the pores and get the debris from beneath the layers of skin that cause pimples. A few of the salicylic peels will get your skin glowing and help with the acne spots. Lastly, we have glycolic peels; that help to soften your skin, tighten up fine lines and wrinkles, shrink large pores and even-out discolorations to your skin. My advice is to do both microdermabrasion and a peel together to get overall improvements. They offer these at spas but I like to have them done in plastic surgery clinics. The price range for the combo is about $135-160 or $60-80 individually. Most importantly, apply sunscreen daily to keep up the investment.

Again sunscreen helps prevent premature aging and sun damage, so apply regularly.

What do you think about when you hear microdermabrasion? Or chemical peels?

Honestly they work great for your skin and not at all abrasive or harsh. I’ve actually been doing them both since 2004.

For starters, let me discuss both as well as the overall effects it can have on your skin. If you have skin questions please email me at theessenceofladywilliams@gmail.com and check next month’s Ok, microdermabrasion is a machine that magazine for your answers. helps exfoliate the skin in great magnitudes.

It sprays these crystals on your face at the Until next time, Remember to pamper your skin, so you can have same time it vacuums up the dead lifeless that radiant glow skin. Your skin will be fresh and soft after the treatment. Now if you have acne, blemish spots on your skin or pigmentation is-

DON’T PUT YOUR B FOOT FORWARD, A WON’T FALL “DOW

I

nitially, all too often, when two people meet, they put their ‘best foot forward’ in an effort to impress one another. To create a stronger attraction/interest from one they’ve just met. Some may even camouflage, conceal or misrepresent who and what they really are to impress each other. Later, as the relationship progresses, other not so attractive character and personality issues/traits evolve that were not revealed or were unknown to the other, causing disappointments, or unmet expectations. This, from my perspective, is not going to happen this time around.

You are going to divulge all your weaknesses, shortcomings and any other frailties and flaws you may be aware of. No surprises. No disappointments. After which, there should be a framework of confidence in which a solid foundation of trust can be built. It’s called being transparent. If accepted, by a potential candidate, the only way you can go is up!

I’m not speaking of extremely personal traumas like; rape, incest, abuse or extremely sensitive areas. For example things like, “I’m an ex-smoker. I’m a vegan or vegetarian. I’m a Buddhist. I drink socially. I’m in a 12 step program. Or even I am a Republican, but don’t hold it against me.” Simply, things that present an outline of who and what YOU are. The less you conceal, the more credible you will be. People like honest and simultaneous partners, you present an atmosphere of self-confidence. I’m not going to explain this, Imma let you figure it out.

SCENARIO You are attending an event, a formal event and you are dressed to the ‘Nines’. (You young folks may not even know what that means, lol.) Suddenly, you notice someone in the distance that appears to be “the one”, with a physical presentation exceeding your expectations. So now, the male approaches, initiates communication and a conversation begins. What do you do?

Here’s what you don’t do. Do not over-compliment!

This is so superficial! If you say something like, “I

noticed you from the other side of the room”, that is noticed you from the other side of the room”, that is enough. Going on and on about how good they look is over-kill and may be indicative of a focus on physical and carnal, more than internal or spiritual.

Show some humor, if you have any. Relax them. Remember, you only just met. Relaxation is the key to being comfortable. Being comfortable is essential to becoming confident. When one is comfortable and confident, they are more likely to be themselves, and so will you.

Don’t start listing all your credentials, (shaking my head)! Don’t try to sell yourself. Don’t try to impress. Do relax. Relax and BE you. Your credentials don’t make you, your character does. Display character, reveal your personality. Earn confidence.

That, ideally will get you respect.

I’m not going to spend a lot of time here, it shouldn’t be necessary. You should have a general idea of what I mean, and besides, I’m not gonna do ALL your work for you. Use your imagination, Jeez!

This is about doing things differently to achieve different results, So do something different! THINK! Be creative! Use your creative imagination! This alone will make you interesting AND attractive!

Assuming, all went well, and you decide to continue the “getting to know you” stage; you make a date for another encounter that is planned. This encounter is not a date. The definition of a date is addressed in another area. Most of y’all got the wrong idea of the purpose for dating: I will deal with that later.

What I’m attempting to convey here is to not lead with your “credentials”. That’s kind of like having a seven course dinner and starting with the entree. Once the entree or main course is served, the rest of the meal is not as interesting. Soup, salad, bread, appetizer, main course, dessert, (a sorbet in between courses to cleanse the pallet) after dinner aperitif. Everything preceding the main course,

(you an the rem Let them BEFOR

I’ve nev only do in my b way, I a health i Asthma I am “re pay’s m have to I am ou for ump an afici 18 year man wa money allowan ly by ch not a sl is clean but will about fl out, som degree. have an income so that blood p I might are mor them. I am. I am it was.) goes.

Now th appoint It With

BEST AND YOU WN”

nd your credentials) will suffice really, then you take mainder of the entree home. And that’s what you want. m see the good in you (Soup, salad, bread, appetizer) RE the “best” in you. Don’t Put Your Best Foot Forward.

ver done this before, no practice, no rehearsal, so I can o my ‘best’. It’s called being transparent. I advocate this books, so why would I not practice what I preach? Anyam impatient sometimes but improving as I mature. My is not the greatest, as I am an ex-smoker with COPD. a, Bronchitis, controlled with proper medication, daily. etired”, on a fixed income that ain’t that great, but it my responsibilities. I have a car that was given to me. I oo many clothes. I have a low-tolerance for ignorance. ut of shape, not over-weight. My waist is 36, from a 34 pteen years. I am only 6 ft. tall, weigh 186 lbs. I am not ionado of the Bible, I’ve only been a “Christian” about rs, and I do what my pastor says. (There is no other alking this earth that I respect more.) I don’t manage well (that will be your responsibility, just give me an nce, lol). I have been divorced for over 20 years, mosthoice. I hate washing dishes, but will cook all day. I’m lob; I tend to leave “stuff ” everywhere. My apartment n; I just need to hang up my clothes. I don’t like cats, l endure them if necessary. I don’t drink…wait this is flaws; my bad. I will have a glass of wine when dining metimes. I eat too many sweets. I do not have a college . I type with 2 fingers. One of them is arthritic. I don’t ny stocks/ bonds/ 401k/ real estate or other sources of e. Oh yes I do, my book and I teach golf. I forgot that means my memory isn’t all that great. Oh, I have high pressure-meds for that too. No other health issues. Well, t be crazy but, that is a well known fact! I am sure there re things to consider, and as we dialogue, I will confess I am sometimes described as arrogant, and sometimes I m an Alpha-Male, I think. (I googled it to find out what ) Not sure if that is a flaw, but who’s counting? And so it

hat was a little overboard, but still, no surprises, no distments. Okay, I am done here. DONE&DONE Kickin’ h Keith. See you next month! If you’re lucky.

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

www.enjoylifemovement.com

www.poetrypoem.com/blackbanditpoems

Known to the music world as “Protégée”, Nicole White is a multi-di-

mensional artist encompassing djing, rapping and modeling. She’s been rapping since her preteen years and modeling since her early twenties; she’s not new to any of these scenes. Which is most likely why this vibrant beautiful woman is also the CEO of her own record label titled Adyssi Entertainment, she also holds three albums and one mixtape. In 2002, San Francisco awarded the Music Heritage Award to Protegee for best new artist. Protégée released a maxi single for her popular song “Still Gutta”, in November of 2004. The release of this single gained her great attention in popular hip-hop magazines and websites all around the world. In May of 2005, Protégée contributed two songs for the highly praised underground classic: “X Chromosome All Female Mixtape” which was distributed by Baltimore based label “X9 Records” and went on to sell over 21,000 units in its’ first week of release. In 2009, Protégée released her highly acclaimed mixtape entitled “Lipstick N’ Microphones” which launched the underground anthem and video “H.I.P HOP”. During the summer of 2010 she performed abroad in Europe as well as broadened her modeling career with national / international modeling agencies

By: Brooklyn Saunders

How did you go from being a model to being a rapper to now evolving to DJ D.I.M.E? I actually started off as a DJ, then a rapper, and then accidentally became a model. I think as you evolve as a person your interests grow and change. I have a passion for all three. Life comes around full circle and that’s the place that I’m at now.

What does DJ D.I.M.E stand for?

DJ D.I.M.E. is an acronym for Doing It Myself Everyday.

Tell us how your experience has been with being a D.I.M.E DJ? (A female Dj) I just started out in the DJ arena so I haven’t had any notable experiences yet (good or bad).

However, I do feel that by me being a model helps with my branding as DJ D.I.M.E. I know how to market and promote myself as well as know how to take the right pictures for my branding. Let’s be real; an attractive woman sells all the time. Marketing 101.

What made you stay in MN? Family is the main thing, I’m a real family orientated person. I don’t have any kids but I have a lot of young nieces and nephews that I think of as my own so I like to see them grow up and be there for them while they’re still young. The other thing would be college, I decided to go back and finish my Communications degree, so when I’m done with that my plan is to move.

The funny thing is although I still physically have a MN address and this will always be home, I don’t really feel like my life is centered around MN. I travel so often that it just becomes a residency (a place to sleep sorta speak).

You’ve been in this industry for a while now how does it feel to see things coming full circle?

with modeling, it was a total accident. I never aspired to become a model but as I’m taking a photo shoot for one of my albums the It is what it is. It’s life. Everything photographer suggested that I in life comes full circle. I started try out modeling; so I did and it out as a dancer, then became a DJ worked. I grew to love all of the and music producer, turned into different careers that I chose but at the end of the day it’s all entera rapper and now a model. My main goal when I was young was tainment. Just like anything in to be a music producer but as I life you either grow or decay. I choose to evolve. started writing for other people, they would tell me that I should rap myself because they thought As of right now, what are your I was good at it. The same thing remaining career goals? (Is Djing

your final destination?)

anything else. You have to work to perfect your art. If you do runway, practice at home in the mirror in heels. If you do print, What tips do you have for an try different poses and looks aspiring model? while at home. Beauty is just a small portion of what modeling is; I like to think of modeling as Be yourself. Have fun. Become versatile. Always remain professtill acting. If you’re hired to sell a sional. product you need to sell the look that sells that product, that means What are the “don’ts” in modeling facial expressions, body language etc. You can’t show up to a shoot (if any)? thinking that you don’t have to work. There’s a huge difference Never assume that just because people tell you that you’re beauti- between taking photos and being ful that you can automatically be a photogenic. model. Modeling is an art just like

How hard is it to be an extraordinary model?

individual so I doubt that DJing is my final destination, it’s just another passion that I acquire.

I don’t know but knowing who I am as a person I would say no. I’m involved in so many different aspects of the entertainment business that I’m sure I’ll be doing other things in the near future. I like radio, TV and being behind the scenes. Who knows I may write a script one day or direct a movie. I’m one of those people that if I put my mind to it.. I do it. I’m a very focused

I won’t necessarily say that it’s hard. If you remain focused, professional and versatile I think you’ll be fine. Being a black model of course is more challenging (especially in a place such as MN) but just like with anything else in life when you’re called upon it’s up to you to do the best job you can in order to secure other jobs. www.facebook.com/yours.truly.nikki

On Blast

with...

Stephen Thomas Stephen Thomas, latest release “True Praiser” a single from his sophomore project “Changes” released spring 2012 and features artist J. Robinson. We think he is truly one of Gospel music’s independent breakout artists of the year!

Stephen serves the Urban Christian Community as a TV/Event Host and DJ for “98.7 The Beat” an FM Station where the Rickey Smiley Morning Show is simulcast every morning, and he has been blessed to have his very own radio show called “Steve-O’s Holy Hip Hop Show” based in Charleston, WV. He has performed at the Dove Awards pre-show “Urban Soul Café”, and was covered by his local news station WCHS News for his radio show accomplishments and being such a positive rising teen in the music industry.

In addition to these accomplishments he also plays the piano and drums for local churches and formerly played for the choir “Generation Yes” of Beech St Records. As Stephen continues his musical pursuits he stands on scripture; “What Good Is It For A Man To Gain The Whole World And Lose His Own Soul(Mark 8:36) For more www.Overcomingsteve.com info on this dynamic TRU. artist check his website out at;

BY LYDIA KING New Yorkers, Janine and her husband of over 22 years, Dominick Detore are former co-stars on VH 1’s hit reality show “Big Ang”, starring Janine’s sister, Angela Raiola of “Mob Wives” and the “Big Ang” show.

Janine is six years younger than Big Ang, but according to Ang Janine acts more like her mother! The two are very close but admittedly, in the world of reality T.V. the never ending controversy between reality show stars, their cast mates, fans and sometimes even their producers can be taxing and exhausting.

Janine and Dominick have exited the crazy world of reality T.V., (at least for now) but we’re sure that their life is anything but boring!

Between Janine running her Staten Island children’s clothing store Country Mouse; and Dominick running his award winning Construction Company 2D Construction and the family owned Car Wash they seem to have full plates. The fun-loving husband and wife team have 7 children (5 sons and 2 daughters) along with an extremely close knit group of family and friends who believe firmly in togetherness and family sticking together.

They cook together, eat together, laugh together and sometimes even fight together.

Proud dad Dominic with his and Janine’s kids

We bet Janine is always cooking up something special!

Dominick’s delicious looking dish.

Dominick with his great friend an Star of ABC’’s hit reality show, “Sh

In the midst of all of the fighting, hair pulling and TWITTER WAR-RING we decided to ask the married industry insiders for a look into their world.

Let’s find out more about,

Janine and Dominick …

Janine, Dominick and former Mob Wife turned ‘Bo$$ Lady’, Leah DeSimone

nd business associate, Shark Branding CEO and VH 1’s “Big Ang”, and Janine with Mob Wives, Carla Facciolo share a hark Tank” Daymond John moment

THE INTERVIEW

TM: We know that Dominick owns 2D Construction, an award winning Construction Company, and Janine you own a popular children’s boutique; so tell us about your individual business endeavors.

Janine: My lil boutique has been in Staten Island on Forest Avenue for 40 yrs. It was a traditional boutique until I bought it 6-yrs ago. I kept it traditional but it has a twist now and a lot of flare, a place where people can buy quality childrens clothing.

Dominick: I’m a residential and commercial builder with 30 yrs. experience in the industry. I specialize in building bars, restaurants, and fast food franchises and restaurants as well; along with designing residential buildings and custom homes.

TM: What’s it like to work in business as a husband/wife team and does it ever affect your personal life together?

Janine: Our business life and our personal life are kinda one entity. I help Dom and Dom helps me. He comes with me to the children shows and helps to pick out the clothing we sell at County Mouse and I help him with design work. I give his construction a touch of a woman’s feel.

Dominick: We complement each other in business as well as personal and help each other to build our businesses collectively.

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To keep up with Janine and Dominick follow them on Twi

How did you break into the world of reality T.V.?

e: My sister Big Ang asked me.

nick : My sister in law Big Ang

anine, what was it like to work with your sister ‘Big Ang’ on her hit show?

e: My sister is like a piece of bread, a little too ‘easy going’, to a fault. We have always been best ds, not only sisters. She is wonderful to work with and its great being her sister, like I say- family is Also I look forward to doing future projects with her.

e: Too much phoniness going on and I’m a real person.

nick: Everyone is trying to be outrageous so they stand out, not my way of doing things.

What has your personal experience dealing with that been like?

e: At first I thought being in the spotlight was fun but when things started getting out of control it lot of stress on me.But, I did enjoy filming with my sister and family.

nick: I had fun doing the show and I enjoyed the experience because I was being me!

What can you tell us about all of the Twitter war controversy that seems to be dominating Twitter?

e: People make assumptions and accuse you of things you’re not even doing! They believe people don’t know-over you. They don’t sit and read between the lines they just jump to conclusions for no n. That’s what starts the controversy instead of just asking you first.

nick: A lot of fans attach themselves to the show and they believe everything that’s being said is true, h is not always the case. Or, they deal with it differently taking things out of context

Do you plan to return to reality T.V at some point? If not- why?

e: I am seeking other avenues.

nick: Yes, we are currently working on a new project.

I see that the Detore’s are a little ‘tight lipped’ on the subject for now. Perhaps we’ll get the “deets” on new project in a follow-up interview!

itter; @janinedetoreVH1 @uncledomdetore

www.Truentmagagine.com

Why do you think there is so much controversy and drama among the cast and even show produc-

A NEW BREED

TRU. IMAGE GROUP: Producer & Filmmak

TM: Seth, who is Tru. Image Group and what makes your company different from other film companies working in th

A: Tru. Image is collaboration between ImageWorx, Inc. which is my company and Tru. Media Group, the company of management “engine” that runs Tru. Image Group. I think that we bring a fresh perspective to reality T.V. We try to br You may think that you know what the show is about, but there’s always a few twists and turns that make it unique.

TM: Tell us about your current reality show projects “Bo$$ Ladies” and “Diamonds”.

A: The initial concept for Bo$$ Ladies was blown out of the water once we got to Chicago to shoot the sizzle reel. We d on four women, all who have Mafia ties…. “allegedly” but that’s the very LAST thing that this show really focuses on. Th

OF REALITY T.V. SHOW?

ker, Seth Neblett gets up close & personal.

he industry?

of my partner, Lydia King and her partner, Kevin King. Kevin, along with Derrick Parker are also a part of the executive ring the “unexpected” with our show concepts. And we believe that there IS a place for positive reality T.V. programing.

didn’t know what we were going to walk into, but we came out with what we believe is a great concept! The show focuses There’s a “place” for it, but only because we (as a people) tend to be “products of our environment” and for that very

reason where we come from is usually at the very “root” has it that your new show “Bo$$ Ladies” is nothing of who we are. But, that’s where it begins and it ends. more than a “Mob Wives” knock off. How do you respond to that?

There was originally a plan for Pia Rizza to star in the show but when there was a disagreement over casting and overall representation of the Bo$$ Ladies brand Pia decided to go her own way. However, to our advantage she introduced us to the current cast, which is amazing, and the blend of personalities is dynamic, comical and endearing. We get a glimpse into their complicated world as they juggle running their businesses with running their households and family’s day to day operations. Toughing it out, handling the frustration and owning it all, in essence becoming “Bo$$ Ladies” over their own destinies. Leah DeSimone, (a former cast mate to Rizza) you may remember was definitely the breakout star on VH1’s Mob Wives, Chicago, and Franky Forliano, daughter of Chicago Outfit head, Harry Aleman join forces with close friend Michelle Luciano, who has no underworld ties and is actually married to a Chicago area Police Officer. Together they originally formed the main leading cast.

Imagine “Analyze that” on steroids and you’ve got a glimpse of “Bo$$ Ladies”. It’s hilariously real and a TRU. look into the Italian family lifestyle and world. Believe me there’s a whole lot more to the Italian way than getting caught up in ordering hits on people, being in shoot-outs, chair throwing and hair pulling. It’s going to be a great show with so much more to offer than what we have been seeing in typical reality show formats lately. This isn’t a housewife show either, so I guess you’ll just have to wait and see how the ladies plan to take Chicago.

TM: It’s funny that you should say that because rumor

A: (Laughing) That’s funny, and obviously conjured up by someone who knows nothing about the concept of the show. That’s the problem with rumors, they are rarely correct.

TM: Hmmm…you’ve got my curiosity peeked now.

Well let’s move on to your other show “Diamonds”.

Chuck D of Public Enemy has been quoted as saying that “Diamonds” is the new breed of reality T.V. programming. That’s a huge statement coming from the leader of a legendary group like PE what does that statement mean to you?

A: We love Chuck D, wow-that is an amazing compliment! Well to be honest, “Diamonds” was the catalyst for everything,so to speak. Sue Ann Carewell, an amazing vocalist and true legend in the Minneapolis music scene during the old school era and Prince days and actually, in the music industry as a whole, has been longtime friends with my partner, Lydia and also with me. In fact Sue Ann and my mother a member of Parliament-Funkadelic and Parlet were best friends. Back in the day Sue Ann, my mother and Lydia all ran in the same circle of musicians in Minneapolis. A couple of years ago Sue Ann reached out to Lydia and they discussed working together on some projects and the idea to produce a reality show

was born. Sue Ann brought me into the mix and we created the concept for “Diamonds”.

The great thing about “Diamonds” is that you really get a real raw look at stardom, the music business, and the pitfalls from a cast of people who have experienced it first-hand. I was born in the business and each of the women in the cast are entertainers that I grew up listening to and whom I idolized!

Now, along with King and Carwell I’m one of the Executive Producers of the show, as well as a cast member; starring in a reality series with all of my idols as a teenager! Unbelievable right!!?

The breakdown of the cast is; myself and Sue Ann Carwell, along with; Maxi Bond and Cheri Wells (which are Rick James’ Mary Jane Girls) and Jill Jones from the Prince crew. We all came together on this show to repair some broken dreams, build new ones and find the new superstars out there to groom them and to teach them via our management company “Diamonds Inc.” TM: There is quite a bit of “beefing” going on in the reality TV world.

Do you anticipate the same kind of “beef ” among cast member once Tru. Image Group’ shows hit the airwaves?

A: I don’t know if I anticipate “beef ” between the cast members. But we have some strong personalities in both shows, so there will be some sparks! (laughter) TM: You wore two hats both as Executive Producer and talent on one of the shows, what’s that like?

A: It’s challenging, but I love a challenge. It’s a great experience to work on both ends of the spectrum. Honestly, I didn’t want to be in front of the camera. I did it reluctantly. I think it’s going to make me a more well-rounded individual though-we’ll see.

TM: Is there anything that you want to share with Tru. Magazine readers and the rapidly building fan base of “Bo$$ Ladies” and “Diamonds”?

A: Get read, it’s gonna be a hell of a ride! Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter. There will be updates and sneak peeks and of course Tru. Magazine will always have the exclusive on all of the behind the scenes stuff first! Afterall...you’ve got friends in high places *wink

In the cut with Leah DeSimone TM: How did you get introduced to the world of reality TV? I became established with reality TV as a favor for a friend who no longer exists in my life. Base on my cameo appearance, I was offered a contract within a week and half. My comedic character played a major role in the show “Mob Wives Chicago”, which now sleeps with the fishes.

TM: (Laughter). O.k….so, what was that experience like?

My experience with reality TV was very satisfying. I did not lose myself to be, nor portray someone, that I was not. I gave reality TV the very best of me. It was my job to entertain the world, to open my life to lives I knew that I would touch and yet stay true to myself morally. Although the income was great, I loved my job more than I loved the money.

TM: How do you think that your current show will be different from the last show you appeared on and why?

Having experience in the reality TV world, I know that I am not hungry for anyone else’s stage. My attitude is very positive and I appreciated my initial blessings. I Apprecited that the producers of show approved and agreed I would be an asset to “Mob Wives Chicago”. Regardless of what someone tells you to do to bring ratings, I did not go against my wisdom and morals to bring ratings and fight like an animals in a hot cage to hope for Season 2. I don’t live my live daily attacking and beating someone to gain a following of friends to prove, I’m so tough and number one beastie. I listened closely but stood true to myself as well as the foundation based on reality with my ex- friend. I do know that not everyone will like me, however, my attitude is, “that’s reality”. I’m not affected by what people say about me.

This current show will bring a positive light that my past show couldn’t produce, and with that I certainly have high hopes for a Season 2 with this show. I have a very sensitive side along with being a humanitarian. I love children and those who are disabled have a very special place in my heart. The sound of my voice is much louder than violence and promoting that behavior on Reality TV. I mean really, children watch these shows! I KNOW that I will make an impact on “Bo$$ Ladies”. I have no doubt about my ability to be outstanding in “Bo$$ Ladies”, and I’m sure looking forward to it!

TM: How do you feel about all of the controversy surrounding the Twitter wars taking place, especially in the reality TV world?

They’re clowns, very irrelevant and so thirsty for publicity! Local rivalry, would never, ever say what they have said on Twitter about me to my face, like a real lady would approach the situation. Sure, I could engage in the Twitter wars continuously if I wanted to, but it’s insane behavior. To implicate innocent people, to attack the source is simply pathetic behavior. I could do that too, but I have respect for the families affected by the source. I’d rather get the

source in person, my reality of life. I’m not threatened by anyone of my enemies at any time. As I always say, “mark my words, I always put my money where my mouth is”. TheTwitter wars that involve me are comediac and may call for a retweet now and then, but I’m not affected by what people say- but they will realize my voice in the end and it will always be louder than theirs!

TM: How did you get introduced to the world of reality TV? A: I had a cousin of mine that called me. She has asked me to do an interview for “Mob Wives Chicago”. I was not sure at first. I did not want to reveal anything about my father, Harry Aleman.

She finally talked me into going and the show already had been cast. I knew Nora (of MWC) and called her to see if she wanted to go with me. Then I was informed she was on it. So I went with her to meet Jen Graziano, the producer-who said I was great. She also fed me a bunch of Bullsh**t (laughter). Then, two days later they came out with their cast. I was asked if I would shoot with Pia Rizza to make her story seem more “real” and legit, I was told that everyone was picking on her, so I did as they asked.

She’s a “Made Woman” and…she’s a Bo$$ too… meet, Franky Forliano

TM: What was your experience like?

A: I thought the show was going to be about us telling the truth about are lives. I filmed and then they told me at the last minute that my cameo appearance was going to air two days before they aired it. I was excited because I was told that I would be on second season. I thought that I would be able to talk about real things. Then I realized after watching and being so close to the people on this show for a period of time, that it was bad for TV. Too much excessive swearing, hair pulling, and lies being told. I always made it clear to Jen that I was not a puppet and would not be told to slap someone or start a fight for no reason. That is not how I roll.

TM: How do you think that your current show will be different from the last show you appeared on and why?

A: I am very excited about “Bo$$ Ladies” because our show is completely different from any reality TV show out there. I have the chance to be who I am, to make TV viewing more positive, to share all my life time experiences with the viewers and not be afraid to talk about my background because I am real and I was raised in a mob background. My father being Harry Aleman, lets me be free and real about who I am as a person. This show has no hair pulling & acts of rolling on floors & punching people in the face. That makes “Bo$$ Ladies” a cut above the rest. We are real and want to bring honesty back to reality TV. This show is offering me the chance to give back, maybe share some of my experiences with someone out there that may need my help in some way. I like to give, not just take. This show will give me that chance to spread the word.

TM: How do you feel about all of the controversy surrounding the Twitter wars?

A: I personal think the Twitter wars of people attacking us at all times is a joke! That just shows me how jealous these people are and will stop at nothing to get publicity for themselves. It’s sad to know that they are so cruel and mean and empty inside. It makes me wonder who raised them! They act tough behind their keyboards, love to say cruel things and make up all of it. I refuse to make them relevant on Twitter and give them any more publicity. It’s reality TV at it’s worst all over again on Twitter. I do not get intimidated at all by these broken down losers so I always have the last laugh! Who cares, I have a real life, come from a strong family background and there is no place in my life for nonsense! Ignore them, block them then kick them to curb. I always say “take the trash out”!

Michelle Luciano she’s a….Bo$$ married to a

badge.

TM: You are new to the world of reality t.v. what has your initial experience been like?

A: At first I was nervous, but the amount of supporters for our project has made it such a positive and fun experience so far.

Every day I receive well wishes. Seeing fans excited and anticipating our show makes me happy. My goal is to inspire at least one person and to put smiles on faces.

TM: Rumor has it that you, Franky and Leah “stole” your former BFF (Pia Rizza’s) show. Is that a true statement, how did you find out about it and how do you respond to it?

A: Yes, Pia Rizza brought me to this show, I’m thankful for that.

I heard through the grapevine that we supposedly “stole her show”, however, it was HER choice not to continue with production for whatever reasons she has. With that being said, I wish her well in her future endeavors.

TM: There was an incident regarding comments and remarks made on Twitter that involved your husband and his job with Chicago PD. Can you describe for us what happened and how you felt about it?

There was a pretty bad Twitter war going on a couple weeks ago. It got as bad as addresses, phone numbers, and family names being publically posted. Harassing phone calls were being made. Because my husband is a Police Officer, he was accused of obtaining all of this information and sharing it and/or posting it. The former “Mob Wives Chicago” cast member making the accusation kept this rumor alive via Twitter for days. I have never been involved with her arguments or “wars” on Twitter, nor have I ever attacked her family or household.

My understanding from being on Twitter for some time, is that children and family are OFF limits. Making a false accusation not only would affect my children and myself, but it’s also highly illegal! My husband is a very respectable officer who takes his job very seriously; he would never put his job and family at risk for a measly Twitter beef, or for any other reason. Not that I engage in Twitter wars, but I would always, no matter what, keep everyone else’s family off limits, I would expect the same respect to be shown towards mine.

BO$$ LADIES

Co-Star Dana Marie

BO$$ LADIES

Co-Star Natalie Gerasimchuk

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She originally Search”. Best k appeared in s has also won the Superstar World Tours. siders him to Most recently other Prince P merous studi California. La resign from th already in the her to be avai

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over (aka Cat) of Chicago, IL is a professional choreographer, dancer and the inventor of the signature “Cat Scat” maneuver which is now considatory part of any professional dancer’s repertoire.

y hit the mainstream in television on the hit major talent show “Star known for her work with Prince in the late 1980’s cat choreographed and several of his videos as well as in his concert film “Sign ‘O’ the Times”. She crowds over with her trademark dance move “Cat Scat” and traveled with r as a background vocalist/dancer on the Sign o’ the Times and Lovesexy . Cat has also rapped and performed on several of Prince’s tracks and cono be a near and dear friend of hers. y, Cat joined the cast of reality show “Diamonds”, starring with a cast of Proteges. She’s in high demand these days and among working on nuio projects she also teaches a childrens dance class in a suburban area of ast week, Cat told Tru. that unfortunatley she had to make a decision to he cast due to too many scheduling conflicts Her other projects and were e works before being offered the Diamonds project; making it difficult for ilable for the proposed filming of the show this upcoming fall.

ear that she has yet another TOP SECRET reality show project offer on the ble appearance on a nationally syndicated entertainment show lined up. the definition of a TRU. artist! She’s an innovator with an outgoing perentreprenuer and saavy business woman all wrapped up in one. With an harisma, and charm we have no doubt that whatever future projects she nd glide her way into she will shine and make them uniquely- CAT!

TRU TRAVEL

Run Away With Me

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

If you’re interested in experiencing the Middle East in a safe & fun manner, Dubai is an excellent destination choice. I traveled there in the fall of 2007 when the weather was in the 90s, much cooler than their summers where the temperature can reach 116+! It’s a city built upon the desert that has become known for excellent shopping, fine dining, partying and Mideastern culture within a newly developed metropolis. Dubai is 8 hours ahead of eastern standard time, so it takes a day or so for your body to get adjusted. Due to the mostly Muslim culture, alcohol consumption is allowed only by residents who own a license and frowned upon for tourists.

The city is quite modern with numerous skyscrapers, interesting attractions, and major superlatives & distinctions: o The world’s only seven star hotel, the Burj al Arab, is worthy of a visit for drinks at the Skyview bar to enjoy the view of the Arabian Gulf. o Burj Khalifa is the tallest building in the world at a height of 2,717 feet. o Dubai is home to the largest immigrant population in the world, comprised mainly of people from India, Saudi Arabia, Philippines, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh. o The Dubai Mall boasts over 400 shops, making it the largest in the world. It’s main attraction is an indoor ski slope with an area for snowball fights & sledding. o The Palm Islands are man-made islands that host subdivisions in the shape of a palm tree in the Dubai Marina. Also in the marina is the World Islands, an archipelago built as a luxury residential development representing the world map.

To absorb the Arabian flavor of Dubai, you must visit the gold and spice souks (markets), take a short cruise on Dubai Creek via an abra (boat), and tour the Dubai Museum to learn the history of the region. My favorite excursion was the desert safari where guides drive SUVs on desert sand dunes, slipping and sliding in a thrilling ride through beautiful sandy terrain. Afterwards we visited a desert camp for a traditional barbecue and watched belly dancing, falconry, rode camels and enjoyed a taste of desert life.

by Andrea Ashmore Andrea Ashmore is a contributing writer with extensive community and world travel experience. She was Special Assistant to the President/Director of Institute Partnerships at Georgia Tech. and also Director of Public Relations at Spelman College.

Andrea has worked with numerous celebrities..

Shekina Moore

LOOKING OUR BEST

You know her. We all do. She is beautiful. She is kind. She is talented. She is brilliant. She is loyal.

She is the total package. Well, almost.

She is so busy taking care of others that she misses the boat when it comes to presenting her best. And who can blame her? Life gets in the way. As women we take the toll of juggling work, meetings, children, husband and church, civic duties, more meetings and the list continues! I could have stopped at children because that one role would make most tired.

Making time for ourselves can be a real challenge; Looking our best doesn’t have to be.

Dispelling the myth that looking our best requires too much of our time is the first step in presenting our very best. Let’s take a look at what looking our best requires. It calls for taking into account factors such as lifestyle, occupation, personality, body type and age. This can seem overwhelming to most women without a little coaching because many do not know where to start. The beautiful thing about coaches is that we have systems and we teach you shortcuts that save you stress, time, energy and money. We have already learned a thing or two about a thing or two Let’s face it, most of us have toiled over what to wear (stress); spent countless hours trying on clothes that are trendy and do not fit our lifestyle, personalities, season of life nor body types (time); we have expended precious energy going to retail stores that do not carry our personal style (energy),and some of us have even spent money at those establishments just

to get home and never wear the garments (money). This, by the way, reignites the cycle of “I have nothing to wear” and we, therefore never get to the point of presenting our BEST selves.

What most women want is to look and feel fabulous! So, if looking our very BEST requires too much time, the notion begs us to take pause and re-evaluate what it is we want, whether what we are doing is working for us and whether we are really connecting with our audiences in a relevant way. If the answer to this question is a resounding no, all is well. The answer you are looking for comes wrapped in a Coach. What we do is simple. We connect leading women in the public eye with their audiences.

What I have found in my many years of working in the fashion/lifestyle industry is that so many women are brilliant beyond measure! They are successful, and have achieved a nod-worthy level of success. But despite their brain powers they get passed over repeatedly for greater opportunities because there is a disconnect.

Often times they are passed over for women with less talent and less experience even. The hard part is getting these women to take the blinders off and really see what is going on.

Once they see it, game is on!

I run Shekina Moore Style & Brand Agency where we specialize in visual brand strategy .

We empower women in the public eye by showing them how to refine, package and leverage what they already have to connect with their audiences and accelerate their platforms. I am your Brand Maven and I am here to help you take charge and learn how to command the room through visual brand strategy. I am going to share a few examples of what happened with two of my clients who were determined to get their visual brands on track!

The best way I can make it live is to show you by example what I mean. Surely you have heard the “saying”, pictures speak louder than words.

Here below we have two real-life examples of successful women I have worked with who needed some tweaking to connect with their audiences.

Refine! Wrap! Position! Unleash! Accelerate There you have it! We help you to clarify to refine your look. Wrap your brand into a beautiful relevant package, positioning yourself as the best version of youself so that you can unleash as God intended accelerate full-throttle into your destiny, embracing all the opportunities that come your way! Here’s to an authentic you!

For more information on Shekina Moore visit the Shekina Moore Style & Brand Agency at www.shekinamoore.com.

For speaking & publicity requests: maurice@thealistinc.com

*********READ BEFORE YOUR NEXT WORKOUT********* Important Workout “CHEAT” Tips

A

re you not seeing results from your workout as fast as you would like? Everyone has setbacks and insecurities at the gym. The biggest reason however, is knowledge. You want to go to the gym when you know what to do and what will maximize your output. OVERTRAINING muscles is everyones biggest mistake.

Here are a few tips to help you get the results that you’re looking for.

1. Don’t do ab workouts everyday! When you workout you want to maximize the results you get out of your training and when you do that you actually tear muscles. Not tear as in you need medical attention, but small tears.

2. Only work out for an hour or less with weights. After an hour your body creates stress hormone cortisol which blocks the growth of muscles. You can use weights in every workout, but limit the time in which you use them. Try doing Yoga or Pilates, stretching before and after a workout will keep you limber and ready for the next time you hit the weights hard!

3. Always remember dumbbells, barbells, and machines. When you workout with free weights you concentrate on smaller muscles which need more help. Which means you should always start your workout with the things that will give you the most trouble and move on to the machines, which offer more help.

4. Count your repetitions backwards. It sounds silly but it really does help! When you do your reps and you count up you just keep thinking about how much you’ve done and people have the tendency to give up and say “that’s enough”! If you set your reps at a high number from the beginning you trick yourself into thinking you have to do all those reps. Count down- not up!

5. Record what you do. Not enough people actually write down what they do at the gym, and it’s a habit that needs to change! When you write down what you did and keep your stats; over time you’ll gain more confidence, be more aware of how much you can do, track your improvements, see where you need to work, and can also progress instead of remaining stagnant.

6. Breathe harder. When people are doing crunches at the gym what do you normally see them doing? Holding their breath more

than likely. If you exhale deeper when you reach the top of your crunch, your abs work harder and you’ll see better results. Don’t believe me? Try it!

7. Pause on your last crunch. Another helpful idea when doing crunches is to pause for a few seconds at the end of your crunch set and try to hold that last crunch at a 45 degree angle for 30 seconds. The burning you feel near the end will be well worth it a month down the road.

8. Don’t go slow. When moving from exercise to exercise don’t waste your time walking around and chatting it up, get to work! The faster you go the harder your muscles will work, the better shape you’ll be in. Plus, you only have one hour on weight training so you better do as much as you can, as quick as you can.

9. Squat and dead lift for abs. Research shows that your abs do a tremendous amount of work when doing these two core exercises.

If you want that toned middle, try these two exercises 2-3 times per week.

10. Flex your muscles every rep. The more you flex during a workout and at the end of each rep the stronger that muscle will get.

Don’t take it easy either!

Thank you for checking out this months article! Put this info to use. Overtraining is a serious error made by many people, even by professionals. Plan correctly, or get a trainer and really get it in!

Don’t forget TITANIUM FITNESS USA if you are looking for the best personal training.

If you have any questions or comments HIT ME UP at Nick@titaniumbodys.com

or call me at 612-743-5957.

42- The Review

By Howard McQuitter

42

“ ” is actually inspirational while many movies today take a swipe at by claiming to be inspirational and missing altogether or tangentially hit the spot; but Brian Helegeland’s(“Knight’s Tale”[2001],” The Order”[2003])”42” averts what could have been easily superfluous sap.Mark Isham’s music is just the right tempo for “42”.

Chadwick Boseman(“The Express”),plays Jackie Robinson, a near perfect,if not perfect,pick even resembles a young Jackie Robinson.Credit should go Nicole Beharie,plays the wife of Jackie,Rachel Isum.

Like hand and glove,Harrison Ford plays a convincing Branch Rickey,manager of the Brooklyn Dodgers,conveys a warm but practical white man willing to integrate major league baseball starting with Jackie Robinson against wide opposition from white players on his team and on opposite teams and from the stands.The “debut” for Jackie Robinson coming from one of founder Rube Foster’s Negro League teams to the “big” league white baseball world in 1947.

Manager Leo Durocher(Christopher Meloni),Dodgers shortstop Pee Wee Reese(Lucas Black)and African American sports-writer for the The Pittsburgh Courier,Wendell Smith(Andre Holland),all are in Jackie’s camp.

Cinematographer Don Burgess makes “42”even more vivid with his rich,if not sometimes subdued,colors in telluric visuals as if the viewer is present in 1947 with Robinson.Philadelphia Phillies manager Ben Chapman(Alan Tudyk)enjoying hurling racial epithets repeatedly as Jackie Robinson is up to bat is one test to the telluric vileness of racism in America,circa 1947.(Jackie Robinson inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1962.)

Lesser known and celebrated is Larry Doby(no character for him in in “42”),African American baseball player also from the Negro League,integrates the American League joining the Cleveland Indians in 1947.(Doby and teammate Satchel Paige are the first African American players to win a World Series championship when the Indians won in 1948.)

During Robinson’s(d.1972)lifetime Black baseball players(to the demise of the Negro Leagues by the early 1960s)increased up a peak of 27 percent of the total major league players by 1975.Yet,today Robinson would probably turn in his grave if knew Black players in baseball plummeted to a paltry 7.7 percent in 2013.Because of the angst about candid discussions about race few have come forward to “address” the “whys” and “hows”on the drastic decline of American Blacks in MLB(Major League Baseball)up against large numbers of Blacks in the NBA(National Basketball) and the NFL(National Football League).

“42”is a testimony to a Black American standing against the odds in major league baseball,then “America’s past time”.Any one looking for a totally wholesome and uplifting movie:”42” is a must see.

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B M A D I G I TA L C H A N N E L 9 3 7 - M I N N E A P O L I S / S T. PA U L , M N B M A D i g i ta l C h a n n e l 9 4 6 - L O N G B E A C H , C A E N T E R TA I N M E N T C H A N N E L S A Division of The Urban Mass Media Group

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Smoove Second with Mike Smoove www.Truentmagazine.com It’s like a magnetic pull that draws you in LOL-.Guys have a vivid imagination and plenty of hormones that drive us to want to penetrate every private place possible.

Question from; Amanda

Velez

Why do men feel the need to cheat and lie?

Answer: Men lie because women make us! No, I’m just kidding. Here are my different types of lies I feel men tell: • The ‘Convenient Lie’ Sometimes we tell you something that you won’t get into an extensive conversation about with us. It’s easier than telling you the truth. “Who’s that girl on my facebook?” When you ask the question, we know your motive, and usually no answer is a satisfying one. So sometimes you get the ‘Convenient Lie’. “ • The ‘I Can Handle it, But You Can’t’ Lie: Sometimes we don’t want to hurt your feelings and we lie because we feel “you can’t handle the truth!” Like ,if you ask “why did you cheat on me?” Well-because I wanted to. Duh! I either got bored with you, you weren’t doing your job, or I don’t even know why I did it. But I did it.

• The ‘Upgrade My Story Lie’: Sometimes men lie to improve their story. Like, how big the fish they caught was, how pretty their girlfriend is, how many fights they got into, or how much money they make. In that case, don’t tell them to act their age, tell them to act their wage!

• The ‘Just Because’ Lie: There isn’t always a logical explanation. Sometimes we tell impulsive dumb lies. And after we lie, WE don’t even know why we did it.

As far as cheating goes, I feel that’s more primitive. It’s our animal instinct to want to reproduce. When we look around ESPECIALLY this time of year when everyone is coming out of hibernation, EVERYTHING looks better than usual!

As one-sided as it sounds ladies, your man deserves a reward for NOT cheating. Don’t just expect your man to ignore his natural instincts and impulses. Monogamy is drawing inside of the lines; and sometimes you just wanna scribble all over the paper! LOL Your best bet is to prevent him from cheating in the first place. Be very open about your relationship, sex life, fantasies, and what’s REALLY going on inside each other’s head. I’m tellin’ you ladies (and gentlemen) most people don’t like the same old routines day in and day out. You can get tired of even your favorite dessert if you have the same thing ,the same way, all of the time. Don’t get mad, just understand it, control it, and find the best way to keep your man from poking everyone that lets him! everyone is

coming out of hibernation; EVERYTHING looks

Question from;

Natalie Novak

How does a shy girl get the guy she wants to notice her witho making a fool of herself?

Answer: Well, stop being shy! “A closed mouth don’t get fed!” You’ve gotta speak up!! If you’re shy, do things to increase your chances of being more available and approachable. Start a conversation about anything and smile. He’ll notice you looking with interest, and hopefully he’ll take over from there. Or, just flat out tell him that the two of you should hang out sometime.

As far as the portion of ‘making a fool of yourself ’, I wouldn’t be worried about that. Often, little embarrassing moments and cute incidents of fumbling over words and all can humanize you. I guess that’s why some guys use cheesy pickup lines. Because even a bad start, is still a start!

Be on the lookout for next months issue and don’t miss ‘Smoove Second’ with your guy, Mike Smoove. If y have questions for Mike email your Smoove Second questions to: themikethatmatters@yahoo.com

out

you

LOVE 146 The abolition of child trafficking and exploitation. Nothing less. We want Abolition and Restoration. Love146 combat child sex slavery & exploitation with the unexpected and restore survivors with excellence.

The trafficking and rape of children for profit is one of the darkest stories on the planet. This physical, mental and emotional trauma leaves children broken and scarred for life. Interventions for these children are critical to their survival.

This is why Love146 exists.

Love146 works toward the abolition of child trafficking and exploitation through prevention and aftercare. Love146 trains aftercare workers, multiplies safehomes, aids socioeconomic development programs in high risk communities and provides a voice for these victims of modern-day slavery.

Founded in 2002 (as Justice for Children Intl.), Love146 is a registered public charity.

Love146 is a 501c3 non-profit organization.

Love146 is committed to ethical practice in all that we do.

This is particularly clear when talking about your donations.

We hope this will be even more evident by obtaining the Better Business Bureau’s seal of approval.

PRESTON STOCKERT: CHOREOGRAPHER As a new contributor to Tru. Entertainment Magazine, let me introduce myself. My name is Preston Stockert, and I am a Senior in the University of Minnesota’s Dance Department obtaining my BFA, and I am a gay man.

In the last three years, a lot has changed. It has changed for the better, and it continues to surprise me every step of the way. You see, three years ago I came out of the closet to the closest members of my inner circle. This month actually marks the three year anniversary that I told my mother that I was gay. Being a dancer and visual artist, I thought for sure that it would have been obvious. However, I was swiftly met with my mother’s tears and her eventual doubts.

The next year I slowly came further and further out of the closet telling more and more people. I was given nothing but support from the people that I told, and I strategically picked those who knew, and those who didn’t know. It wasn’t until about a year ago that most of my extended family officially knew my sexuality. All the while, I still was having dead end conversations about my sexuality with my mother, and even worse, not talking about it with my father.

It wasn’t until the spring of my Junior year that I finally was able to wise up and give myself some credit. After a very personal scuffle with a friend of mine, (a scuffle which is long over) I was able to see that as a person, I have a lot to offer. I found my self worth, and with every passing second, that self worth increased. With my new found pride, I was able to provide my mother with an ultimatum. The circumstances were extreme, but I knew that for my own pride, I had to do it for myself. Over a phone conversation, I provided my mother two options; her full support, or nothing at all. I never wanted my mother to exit my life, but I knew that if I didn’t finally do something about the negativity that was in the air whenever I spoke about being gay, I would be in much worse shape. I must not have been too far off, because after two years, I was finally able to squash all thoughts of “maybe he’ll just meet the right girl”, or “I just don’t think he knows what he wants”.

The thought that my mother doesn’t love me because of my sexuality is laughable, but as a growing young adult, the thought of not being taken seriously was almost daunting. I love the relationship me and my mother have come to possess. I don’t know if it’s ever been better, and I am so thankful for that.

The relationship that we developed didn’t happen that way just because. It happened due to the fact that we got honest with each other. We shared all of our feelings, good and bad. It was hard at first, but after I was able to express my thoughts and needs, it became the best thing I could have ever done. I’ve seen a correlation with this to the rest of my life. If one understands, is honest with, and takes care of themselves, with everything they do, their work will reflect it. My senior project has been a personal testament to that

statement.

I started piecing together my senior project earlier this academic year. I started my project with new material, but decided to pair my material with older movement that I had generated in my Sophomore year. These two choreographic sequences began to mesh more and more as I associated them together in my mind.

Upon finally finishing the material earlier last month, I finally found a sense of peace. You see, my senior project is about the story of me coming out. In the process of coming out, I felt like I needed to change myself due to the fact that it was a new chapter in my life. I slowly dropped certain things about myself, in an attempt to explore new possibilities, and quickly lost my foundations. What was wrong in my approach was the thought that being myself wasn’t good enough.

It was more than good enough. In fact, it was the only thing I could have done.

My recommendation to anyone questioning

their sexuality; be honest with yourself. My recommendation to those who are coming out of the closet; don’t lose sight of the value YOU and YOUR opinions possess. My recommendation to those who have family or friends coming out; you will never lose the person you love just because they’re not straight. They’re not changing just because they’re finally honest about their sexuality.

The World of....Angela Jame By: Maurice Hoover

F

or writers, putting their thoughts in an open forum such as a book or blog can be exhilarating, eyeopening and exciting, as the plethora of positive feedback comes raging in from all directions. In the case of Angela James, writing served a different purpose. Writing became a point of catharsis, and at various times, seemed to serve as a therapist, without a long couch and white doctor’s coat in tow.

James, a Chicago native, began her burgeoning writing career on accident, as she poignantly chronicled her life as a child of an impoverished living circumstance. Her knack for allowing the reader to enter her world and make them seemingly apart of it caught the attention of a local news conglomerate.

James’s pen has been a non-stop fury of love, pain, suffering and resolve ever since.

In this interview, James outlines her humble beginnings and what drives her to want to become the success that not many people from similar backgrounds are able to attain.

Let’s start this off with a brief overview of yourself, your background, your writing style and how you began your writing career. Where did your career begin?

My name is Angela James. I’m from Chicago originally. I was in the Navy for nine years, [and] I began writing when I was young, from about four or five [years old]. I started writing musicals, plays and short stories. I got picked up on ABC News as a little child prodigy. I’ve written over 100 short stories.

I have a few novels in the works. I have two that are finished, and a third that is almost complete. I also have ideas for six more novels. So, I am up and running.

You said that were a child prodigy, so to speak. How did that come to be? Also, what took place after being discovered at such a young age?

I went to Catholic school, and there we had to write about how it felt to live in the ghetto. I wrote from my viewpoint, and the story got picked up by ABC. One of the reporters came out, and they were doing a piece on children of the ghetto. I do not know if that is a good thing or not. But, I look back at it, and in retrospect, it does not sound like a great thing. At the time, I was excited to do it. They chose the story, and my sister and I were featured in their little segment. From then on, I was like, “well, let me write about everything.” I started writing poetry, musicals and everything that I could write.

I sang, dance...everything.

Do you recall what your first short story was about?

My first short story was called “Ini Thumper.” It was about a nightmare that I had about a serial killer that came in and stole me away from my family, and was killing all these people that were near and dear to me. That story stayed with me for at least two years. I just kept having nightmares about it, so I wrote it down. I internalize a lot of things, and for me, my therapeutic moment was writing that down.

It was refreshing to me.

es

When did the transition point occur from writing these short stories, to the novels that you are currently writing now?

I was an avid reader at one time, before I started writing. My favorite authors were Eric Jerome Dickey and E. Lynn Harris. It was more of a fantasy world. The stories were not realistic and were not relatable. It was like when you see movies with a happy ending. They might have a bad story, but you know something is good at the end. The hero gets the girl, or the heroine wins, or something like that. That’s not how real life is. So, it was important to me to start with sometimes you do not win, or sometimes the good guy does not win the girl.

This is realistic; this is my life. So, that was the transition for me. Putting my story out there for people to read and making it reality.

What sparked your interest in writing your first book, Love Triangle? Was this something that was written from personal experience?

It was from personal experience. I was married before, and it was new to me to be married. It turned out to be a love-less marriage, and I was so consumed by the religious side of marriage. My grandparents had been married for 40 years, and my parents were married for close to 20 years. Here I was, getting a divorce two years in. It consumed me so much that I took that story and just went with it. I incorporated a lot of things that happened in my life, with my marriage in it.

Your second novel is called Bitch, correct?

Here is the story with that. The second book will actually be the third one. I was working on that one and in the process of moving with the Navy while I was in [the military]. And, all of my things were stolen. So, the computer, the hard drive and everything was stolen because I had a break-in. [At that time], I was writing “Erotica,” which was supposed to be the third novel. “Bitch” was supposed to come out second. So, I did not have the story and I was writing “Erotica,” and I did not try to go fix what was lost. I continued with “Erotica,” and when I finished it, that is when one of my friends had a copy. I had him read it for review, and he gave me the recovered file and I started it again. It is really weird because it is actually the second novel, but it will be the third published novel. “Erotica” was the third novel, but it will be the second published novel.

So, since Bitch is your most recent novel, let’s talk about that a little bit more. What made you give it that title? Is it about one singular character that goes completely crazy?

I came up with that book title because we use it for so many different things. We do not use for the meaning of the word; we use for a couple of different things. We use it to talk about a weak man, to chill out with our girlfriends, to downgrade someone, etc. There are so many aspects to that word thatwe use it for. The character in the book, Samantha Ross, shows how Black women interact with one another in a corporate setting. It is kind of like the crab in the barrel mentality. Instead of working together in a sisterhood like we are supposed to do, or like other races do, it is all about stabbing each other in the back. Then, it goes into more detail with men and how they interact with the women and how the women interact with the men. It is definitely a lot of drama. I had a headache writing it. It hasa lot of drama and suspense, and it also has a lot of “I did not know this was going to happen” and “who did it?” aspects at the end of the book.

In your opinion, do you think it is beneficial for an author to release books more frequently, or release books once a year, like some authors have done?

I would say that it depends on the author. If there is a standard, I would not go by it. I would go by what you think you should be doing. If your schedule is full, and you are touring with your first book, I would say go with that. In my case, after the first book, after I got the exposure and feedback that I wanted, I was like, “what is next?” I think for your fans, you should have a “what is next?” before they ask. That is how you stay relevant and you keep them wanting more. For me, I started doing a lot of other stuff, like short stories and video that is going to go on my website. I am also writing and helping other people with their writing. I want to do a lot of stuff. I do not want to just stay confined to that. I also want to get into screenwriting, writing and producing films, and television shows. I definitely want to expand into the film and television industry.

What are you plans for the rest of year and going forward with your next novels?

I want to put out two more books this year, which would make it a total of four. I also want to do freelance writing for some magazines. Eventually, I want to start my own magazine that is a branch of the publishing house that I want down the line. My manager wants me to go to Germany for my book “Erotica,” so I am waiting on tour dates for that. That is what is in gear right now.

For more information about Angela, upcoming events and book releases, please visit; http://www.booksbyangela.com.

2013 Beach Bling Swim

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Couture Fashions. That’s what the 201 Show bought to Atlanta, GA this past the show did not disappoint! Beach B Alton McCullough King and his array of Atlanta’s hottest fashion shows of th around this year’s Spring/Summer bea treated and delighted the guests and f couture fashion/swimwear, accessorie fashionable kids wear. The show whic about an hour and thirty minutes was the Holiday Inn Atlanta, Capitol Conf Center Hotel. The show, which also pr a pre-show mixer, allowed interested and guests access to a vast array of ven businesses and designers with networ possibilities.With the doors opening a sharp, guests were lead into a rich and ballroom that provided a sense of ant style and fashion. With it’s enormous delier powerfully hanging from its cro molded ceiling, stage lights in place, t camera flash ready, the music queued the runway ready to be stomped to th the lights slowly dimmed down and th Beach Bling Fashion show began.The light was this year’s color and styles fo season. The models walked the runw confidence and elegance, making each and swim wear a dancing treat for the A brief intermission provided the aud a greedy thirst for more, and as the m of ceremonies announced the second the show was about to begin, the crow their seat and the show continued flaw way and the last flash hit the stage, a l ballroom. That was it, the show was o not help but tell myself.... Beach Bling mendous success and already I’m loo extravaganza!

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BY KEITH KING

era) Shoes, (Models) Hats and High 13 Beach Bling Swim Wear Fashion t March 23, 2013, and let me tell you, Bling Swim Wear CEO and Founder y of master designers, put together one he year. The show’s theme was based ach and travel ensemble. Exquisite looks fashion moguls with a plethora of high es and designer shoe wear, along with ch lasted s held at ference rovided parties ndors, rking at 7p.m. d elegant ticipated chanowned the d up and he death he 2013 highor the way with h outfit e eyes. dience mistress half of wd found wlessly. As the last model walked the runloud round of applause filled the massive over and in the mist of all that, I could g you did it again, the show was a treoking forward to next year’s 2014

wimweardesigns.us

Photographer Brandon Harris

TRU TEEN

Getting out of your Shell Changing schools can be one of the most difficult experiences that a teenager has to go through. More so when your a shyer individual than most of your peers. Imagine you walk into your first class at your new school, everyone stares at you for a brief moment than resumes their conversations. The teacher glances at you and motions to an empty seat you sit down, oblivious to your fellow table mates. You feel ignored as if these fellow students could care less about you. Weeks go by with the same routine. You begin to wonder: “Do they hate me? They must just be unfriendly.” You continuously come up with reasons and excuses for why the other kids don’t talk to you. Yet you never consider the option that it’s “you” that’s the problem.

Now most of you are probably thinking “what? How can I be the problem? They are the ones ignoring me!” But that’s not necessarily the truth, consider this: How awkward it is to meet someone new? You have to learn their name, interest, and many other things. For most people that’s simply asking for too much. Why should they go out of their way to interact with someone they don’t know? Why would they put themselves in an awkward situation for your sake?

These are questions most individuals ask themselves when they are making a decision. Getting to know you is not for their benefit, it’s for yours. Hence forth it’s up to you to get out of your comfort box.

Stepping out of your shell can be a very stressful experience for many. It takes courage to introduce yourself to strangers and talk about yourself. But it’s well worth the effort! You’d be surprised how much in common you share with your fellow students. In addition, making a friend or two can make the rest of the school year less stressful. So quit lying around waiting for someone to talk you and go socialize.

BY:CHRISTIAN LEE

JUNIOR CORRESPONDENT

BY: FRANK D

JUNIOR CORRESPONDENT

Dream Chaser!

When you were a little boy or girl, between the ages of nine and twelve you worked hard on trying to be like whoever youdreamed of (who ever your idol was). For all of those times you tried to give up but didn’t, that’s what you call a ‘Dream Chaser’. Even when people try to tell you that you will not make it, tell them that you are a ‘Dream Chaser. Keep in mind, let nobody tell you that your not or you can’t do what you want. Continue to keep focusing on your craft, because that same person that said you can’t make it is already failing in life and you are already ahead of them. And keep focusing on your dream chaser”.

BY JUST JUSTIN JUNIOR CORRESPONDENT

STAND OUT

Standing out in a crowd takes lots of hard work and dedication.

You have to know where you stand. Ha-ha you get it? Crowd and ‘where you stand’. Yea, but anyway, it really does take mostly dedication and the drive to resist doing what everyone else is doing. Just be yourself and people will follow. Like for instance, Wiz Khalifa. Everyone knows him, and he dyed his hair blond, resulting in millions of other people dying there hair blonde right after that. There’s always that cool piece of clothing that you just HAVE to have, or whatever it is. It’s alright, as long as you’re not doing it just because of the fact that the other person did it. You do it because you actually like it, not just because that celebrity was flaunting it around. Being yourself takes courage, determination, resilience and a lot of ‘brain power’ to steer clear of the “since they have it I want it too” type of mindset. Remember to stay Tru. with yourself, have a positive mindset and most importantly... BE YOU. And remember, I’m NOT a Psychologist, but I try.

BY: Unique K. JUNIOR CORRESPONDENT

Are

You

a

Dream

Keeper?

Gabby Douglas was born on December 31,1995 in Virginia Beach, Virginia.

At the age of 3 she did a perfectly straight cartwheel with a technique she learned from her sister Arielle. By the age 4 she taught herself how to do a one handed cartwheel, thanks to her sister Arielle’s persuasion tactics, Gabby’s mother let her began taking gymnastics.

Gabby, went on to pursue a career after years of training and focusing on her dream. This “Dream Keeper” became a worldwide star since winning the Olympics all around title in London, and became the first African American gymnast to claim the biggest prize. Gabby stated in a interview with Oprah that it was not always easy;there were times that she didn’t get treated equal and she also made a decision to withdraw from one of the gyms she attended. She never gave up on her Dream, with that being said sometimes in life we may have to change something or the environment we are in but our mind must stay focused on the prize thats at the end!

ARE YOU A DREAM KEEPER

Remembering Baseball’s African-American Pioneers Posted by: Haley Smilow February is black history month. This made me think about the impact that African-Americans have had on the sports world. One of the biggest impacts, in my opinion, was the Negro Leagues. In August 2011, I was lucky enough to go to Kansas City to see a Royals vs. Yankees game.

What I did not know was the history of baseball in K.C. is more then just the Royals.

I learned about many great players and the history of a great league on my visit to the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum. I never imaged that baseball was once divided based on the color of your skin. The Negro Leagues Baseball Museum is dedicated to preserving the history of great black players. In the 1920’s, a structured league of black players began under the guidance of Rube Foster, and The Negro Leagues were born.

The Negro Leagues had many great players and stories of men like Satchel Paige, James “Cool Papa” Bell, Josh Gibson, Buck O’Neil, Jackie Robinson and many others, including one amazing women named Effa Manley.

What made these people great were their astonishing abilities.

Legend has it that Satchel Paige was such an accurate pitcher that he warmed up throwing 20 pitches across a chewing gum rapper he used as home plate. Some of Satchel’s memorable statistics are 300 shutouts and 55 career no-hitters.

Most impressive to me was that he joined the MLB as a rookie at age 42 and at age 59 pitched three innings for the Kansas City A’s.

Another player I really liked was the speedster Cool Papa Bell. It was said he could round the bases in 12 seconds. It was also said that he once scored from first base on a Satchel Paige bunt. Another impressive stat is his 175 stolen bases in 200 games.

My favorite player was known as the black Babe Ruth, Josh Gibson. Josh was a huge power hitter. In his 17-year career he is credited with hitting 962 home runs and even hitting a fair ball out of Yankee Stadium. He was also credited with hitting 75 home runs in 1931, 69 homers in 1934, and 84 homers in 1936.

Think about this: Over the last 10 years no MLB player has even come close to posting those kinds of numbers.

Josh was a great slugger, had respect of his fellow teammates, and fans and kids loved him.

Guys like Satchel, Cool Papa Bell and Josh Gibson laid the foundation of the Negro Leagues. Building on this foundation several new players like Buck O’Neil and Jackie Robinson continued the history of the Negro Leagues. O’Neil joined the Memphis Red Sox of the Negro American League in 1937. One year later, Buck joined the K.C. Monarchs and stayed with them until 1955. During O’Neil’s playing years, the Monarchs won four consecutive Negro League World Series, and Buck appeared in three All-Star games. He continued on as the Monarchs’ manager for eight years after he stopped playing.

These men faced many difficult problems and challenges because the color of their skin. These challenges were hard enough for men, but imagine being an African-American woman and facing these challenges. An amazing woman, Effa Manley, left quite an impact on baseball history. Effa was the co-owner of the Newark Eagles with her husband, Abe. She ran the entire business end of the team. Effa was known for being brash.

Many of her male co-workers resented her but certainly respected her. Effa was also known for being a player’s advocate fighting for better schedules, travel and salaries. Effa was also a community leader and her influence extended beyond baseball. She was very active in the civil rights movement. It was said, “the Eagles were to black Newark what the Dodgers were to Brooklyn.”

Playing only one year in the Negro Leagues, Jackie Robinson would leave a lasting impact on all of baseball.

Robinson became the first black player in Major League baseball, breaking the color barrier and opening the door for all black players. This would end segregation in baseball. The owners of MLB teams now began recruiting players from the Negro Leagues. This would eventually lead to the end of the Negro Leagues because the teams’ owners could not compete against the MLB. Fifty years after Robinson broke the color barrier his Number 42 was retired in all MLB stadiums. In Robinson’s final public appearance in 1972, nine days before his death, he said he was proud of his accomplishments but that his dream would only be achieved when there was a black manager. In 1962, Buck O’Neil became the first black coach in the majors, hired by the Chicago Cubs. Frank Robinson became baseball’s first black manager 13 years later, for the Cleveland Indians.

Today many ballparks honor these great black players along with Jackie Robinson. Kauffman Stadium has a seat dedicated to Buck O’Neil, PNC Park has statues honoring many great Negro Leagues Players and The Baseball Hall of Fame has a wing dedicated to the Negro Leagues.

Thanks to the players of Negro Leagues, we now have many great black players in Major League Baseball.

Players like CC Sabathia, Prince Fielder, Curtis Granderson, Andrew McCutchen, the Upton brothers and Torii Hunter, among others, carry on the legacy of great black players.

Source

SI Kids is part of Sports Illustrated Sites | Copyright © 2013 Time Inc.

Derich’s Story…

BY:LYDIA KING

I received a call from reality T.V. star Leah DeSimone one afternoon. She had this amazing story to tell me about a young man named Derich Manz. A young man with autism who is nothing short of amazing. Derich is Leah’s biggest fan and the story of his efforts to meet his dream come true up close and personal and his family’s relentless efforts to bring that to a reality will pull at your heartstrings. Every now and then there comes along a story that’s too good to be true. This is one of them. Told in the inspiring words of Derich and his family.

This is Derichs story…

Derich’s dad on “Derich”…

Derich is the third of six children, he has one older sister, Courtnee. One older brother, Ehren and two younger twin sisters, Ashlee and Emalee. And, another younger sister, Sophee. Derich came to us in a way that should have given us a clue what our future held for him, Emergency C-section because he had wrapped his cord around his neck. He was two months premature. He must have been bored and just wanted out. It’s never a dull moment with Derich.

His siblings say his theme song is George Thorogood’s “Bad to the Bone”.

Headstrong describes him well. Derich is not one to hold back his feelings and always says exactly what is on his mind. He is as unique and entertaining. We love him dearly because of who he has been and who he has become. He is not just part of our family, he completes it. Tests us still, yes. Pushes our buttons, yes. Brings home large dogs to drive his mom crazy, yes. Love him always, YES. Our family would not be the same without Derich. He is an awesome person and lets everybody know it. No one ever forgets him after they meet ‘cuz my son Derich is the most individual and honestly outspoken person I know. And until you meet him, you don’t know what a true rock star is.

Derich’s own story…by DERICH MANZ I had got into contact with Leah DeSimone via Twitter on August 22, 2012. I actually sent her a tweet asking if it was her because I wasn’t sure if it was a fan made twitter page. She immediately replied back and told me it was her and she followed me. From that day forward, Leah and I would tweet back and forth every day. I had followed the other “Mob

Wives Chicago” stars, but they would never reply back to me.

About two months later, I sent Leah a private message after I read her biography on her website and seeing that she loved people with special needs, and I told her about how I have Autism. She replied back and told me I was a true blessing. I then went on Facebook and found her fan page and liked it, and posted on there saying how much I loved Mob Wives Chicago and that I was a big fan of hers. She replied back to my Facebook post and told me to always do good in school.

A few months passed and in November of 2012, I bought an autograph picture of Leah on her website. I had received it in the mail the week of Thanksgiving, and I was so excited! I took a picture of my autographed picture and tweeted Leah to tell her I got it and thanked her for it. A few days after I received my autograph, I asked my Mom and Dad if I could go to Chicago for my birthday. They told me they would have to think about it and I would know by the end of the week. I sent Leah a message on Twitter letting her know that I could possibly be visiting Chicago for my birthday and how I would love to meet her. My parents then let me know I would be going to Chicago for my birthday and would be leaving the day before my birthday and spend my entire birthday weekend in Chicago.

The night before my trip I was so excited and couldn’t sleep. So I sent Leah a tweet telling her I wanted to meet her and how it would be a dream come true. Leah sent me a private message and asked me when I would be in Chicago and who I was traveling with. I explained to her that I was flying up to Chicago with my Dad. And my brother would be meeting us up there, along with a group of his friends the next day. She told me she had some things going on but she would try to meet me because I’m one of her dearest fans.

I woke up the morning of my trip and told my mom that Leah sent me a message and told me she would try and meet me while I was there. My mom told me to not get my hopes up just in case Leah wouldn’t be able to meet me while I was in Chicago. So I had to remind myself that it might not happen since Leah told me she might have other plans. As my Dad and I left for the airport, I sent Leah a tweet letting her know I was on my way to the airport and

would be leaving soon. I didn’t hear back from her, so as we got to the airport and were waiting for the time to pass before we could go through security, I got a phone call from a blocked number. I pushed ignore since I don’t ever answer blocked numbers. My dad asked me if someone had called me and I told him “yeah, a blocked call. I ignored it”. He went outside of the terminal to use his phone while I stayed inside. He walked back in and we had to go through security so we could wait and board our flight. We had about 20 minutes until we could board, so I was on twitter letting Leah know what I was doing and that I’d be boarding my flight soon. I then received another blocked call, I hit ignore again. It was time to board the flight and I was in my seat and sent Leah one last tweet letting her know I was about to leave Kansas City and that I’d be in Chicago in about an hour and that I would tweet her when I landed.

The whole flight I was listening to music and thinking how it would be awesome to meet Leah while I was there. When we arrived at O’Hare airport, I sent Leah a tweet telling her I had made it to Chicago. We got onto the train and took the train to the Congress Hotel on Michigan Ave. We had to walk a few blocks and as we approached the hotel my phone was ringing again with another blocked call. I pushed ignore again, and we checked into our hotel.

As we walked into my hotel room, I placed my bag on the floor and looked out the windows and was shocked that I was in Chicago! My hotel phone then started ringing and my Dad told me to answer it. I told him I didn’t want to but I answered it anyway. I said “Hello?” And the lady on the other end said “Is this

Derich?” I replied with “Yes...” The lady then replied, “do you know who this is?” I said “No...” She replied, “you don’t

know who this is?!” Then that’s when it clicked! I said, “IS THIS LEAH?! LEAH DESIMONE?!” Leah replied with “Yes! WELCOME TO CHICAGO! How was your flight?” I said, “it was good”. Leah then said “I’ve been trying to call you since you were in Kansas City, why didn’t you answer?” I said “I didn’t know it was you! I don’t ever answer my phone for blocked numbers.” She said “well you need to answer your phone because I’m going to call you and check on you to make sure you’re having a good time in Chicago! Is today your birthday?” I said “yes, at midnight it will be” she said “I’m going to be the first person to say happy birthday to you! You have a great day tomorrow and I’ll be calling you, so make sure you answer every call, okay?” I said “I will!” And we hung up. I was shocked! I looked at my dad and said “HOW DID SHE KNOW WHERE I WAS STAYING? I NEVER TOLD HER WHERE I WAS STAYING! I only told her when I would be here in Chicago!”... my dad said “She’s Leah DeSimone! She knows everything!”

I sent a tweet after I got done talking with Leah telling everyone I just talked to her on the phone. The next morning, I woke up and was on Twitter and saw that I got a tweet from Leah saying happy birthday. I replied back and said “thank you”. About an hour later, I told my Dad I wanted to go see “Little Italy” because that is where Leah is from. So we got on the train and went to Taylor Street for some coffee. I was hoping I would run into Leah while I was at the coffee shop there on Taylor Street, but I didn’t see her. I told my Dad that I wanted to have dinner on Taylor Street because maybe I would then see Leah.

While we were having coffee, he was on the phone with someone but he wouldn’t tell me who. So after I had coffee, we went downtown to look at all the different stores on Michigan Ave and walk around downtown while we waited for my brother and his friends to arrive at their hotel later on in the afternoon. When my brother and his friends arrived, we went to lunch and were at their hotel (which was the same hotel that Mob Wives Chicago was filmed at) for the afternoon until dinner.

We went to Pompei Pizza on Taylor Street for dinner. When we arrived our table was all set up really nice. Our waitress (which I didn’t realize was Leah’s Stepmom, Fran) got us soda and then asked Dad something behind me but I didn’t hear what was said. So my dad sat back down and I looked at him and said “you didn’t tell that lady it was my birthday right”?! I don’t want people to know it’s my birthday”! He told me that he didn’t tell her. About 20 minutes passed and I was typing a tweet to send Leah, and as I was about to send the tweet, someone said “WHERE’S THE BIRTHDAY BOY?!” I looked at my dad and my brother, and I then looked over and Leah DeSimone was standing next to me! She said “Are you Derich?” I was shocked! I looked at her and said “Yeah! I was just about to tweet you! I NEED A PICTURE WITH YOU!” As I stood up her father Wolf walked up and I looked at Leah, and she said “You know who that is?” I said, “YEAH! That’s WOLF! That’s your father!”. Wolf hugged me and said happy birthday and I said, “I need a picture with you guys!” So Leah and I got pictures, and I asked Wolf if he would take a picture with Leah and I, and he said yes. So we got my pictures and I told Leah that she was awesome and I loved her on Mob Wives Chicago. I asked her if I could quote her, she said “yes”. So I told her my favorite quotes and Wolf looked at me and said, “LEAH, he knows all your quotes! Derich, you’re FAMILY!”. Wolf then asked me who my favorite artist was I told him Kelly Clarkson, and he

asked if Kelly has ever tweeted me back. And I said, “No”. He told me he would try his best to get her to tweet me back. Wolf then told me he would send me two posters of Leah. Which I have on my wall in frames in my room! I love those posters. Leah then told me that she was going to be in a movie. I was the first fan of hers to know about that, which made me feel special.

After we all talked, I finished my dinner and then I went back over to Leah and Wolf ’s table to tell them goodbye and say thank you. I hugged Leah and she said “be careful and have a great birthday!” Then Wolf hugged me and said “happy birthday, you’re family now!”

After I got back home from my Chicago trip, I made a video tribute of my trip to Chicago and meeting Leah. I sent it to Leah on Twitter and Facebook. Leah said it was an amazing tribute and that she cried watching it. I sent the video to different news stations, and entertainment television shows, like; Entertainment Tonight and Oprah. I also sent the video to Fox News, CNN, MSNBC, and to all the Chicago news stations, Los Angeles news stations, The NEW YORK TIMES, Chicago Tribune, all my news stations in Kansas City. But I never got a response back from the major news stations. The only response I got back from someone was a guy from a local news station FOX 4 here in Kansas City, who wanted to know more information on how I met Leah. So I emailed him more details about meeting Leah, but he didn’t respond back to me after I gave him more information.

Well maybe this story wasn’t one that the New York Times or CNN or Fox or any of the other numerous media outlets was interested in, but we found it very worthy. Afterall, it’s not every day that you meet someone like Derich! Derich gives us hope. If you want something bad enough, no matter what the obstacle, IF you have FAITH and IF you BELIEVE-YOU can accomplish pretty much anything! Derich did, and people just like Derich is what this magazine is all about.

Here’s something else to think about, the Reporter that we originally assigned this story too had a tough time connect with Derich by phone to get his story. We were down to the wire and the story needed to go to press so I called Derich and asked him to give me his story in his own words. And this…was it. This story, Derich’s story was far better than any Reporter could have told. Tru. thanks you Derich, YOU are an inspiration not only to me, but to our hundreds of thousands of readers around the world.

Always a friend to you~Lydia King

Be sure you check out the links to some of Derich’s work we think he’s a Bo$$!

Video links are here....

Here’s the link to my tribute to Leah DeSimone. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rbWkFMDV0Z0 Here’s the link to my tribute to the Bo$$ LADIES. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tMK3ipao-f0