Post on 10-Mar-2016
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SPECIAL THANKS
To all of Our Writers, Designers,
Planners, Contributors,
Advertisers & Supporters of Xii.
Ken L.
Lena Banks
Shemeka Cockerm
Eryn Davis-Hayter
DJ Franklin
Jasmine Jackson
Raye Jackson
Katrina Leonard
Clarence Lomax
Iman Lott
Sherry Lumpkins
LeAndrea Mack
Marlo Marable
Randi McCreary
Carlanda McKinney
Gary Mitchell
Casie Murff
Tiffaney Oakes
Corey Phillips
Earl Smith
Anna Thomas-Rios
LaToya Traylor
Tony Van Trece
A’Yanna Gilmore Webster
Jessikha Williams
Christopher White
twelvekc.com
twelve@kcsoul.com
FEATURED THIS MONTH:
LaMonica Moore -Madden
Personal Branding Mentor B. Weddings and Events
Christina Young-Jenkins Trilogy Fitness
@twelvekc
4
For Connoisseurs & Conscious Living
This magazine is called
TWELVE to note its
monthly presence, only
TWELVE times a year.
Also, and more impor-
tantly, TWELVE is a symbol
of time. So it represents
timely information and the
central point by which life
events are measured. And
of course, timepieces are
part of the finer things,
perfect for our core read-
ers in pursuit of sophisti-
cated living.
Welcome to TWELVE.
5
Welcome to FIVE!
We’re finally well into Spring. The season of
Mother’s Day, Graduations and preparations
for the summer. In this issue, you’ll find topics
of interest in all of those areas.
Pay close attention to our YoungSTARS fea-
ture. Recognizing some of the youth in KC
that are doing great things. Plus, get ready for
our June 10th NETWORK with the 100!
Explore the content, style and more. Remem-
ber, beyond the digital or print experience,
TWELVE is interactive, so get involved and
engage at our live events too!
You have an opportunity to contribute to the
content by writing, submitting story sugges-
tions, and of course, attending the launch
events and more. Contact us at
twelve@kcsoul.com to get involved and send
us feedback, too!
Sincerely,
Ken L
COVER
Matt & Chrystal
DON’T MISS
Calendar 52
INSIDE
M.A.D. House 6
Grad Inspiration 10
KC Swingers Golf 14
Frank White
NEXT
18
Network 100
Guide
24
Wedding 30
YoungSTARS 38
MAY 2014 Volume II, Issue V
Though a lifestyle publication isn’t unique, TWELVE evolves the genre. It’s the only magazine
that you both read and live. We set out to create more than a literary piece. We’ve merged
both the online world and the live event into the “magazine experience”. Once a month, we
release a new issue of the magazine. The release is paired with a live launch event on First
Fridays, where the feature elements and characters of our magazine are brought to life for
you to touch, taste, feel and experience. The live experience becomes part of gathering
ground of additional stories, photos, and more for the final written magazine.
What’s Different? Read It & Experience it Live
kcsoul.com @TWELVEKC
TWELVE Magazine is part
of the KCSoul.com net-work. Owned by H.G.E. Marketing, LLC. (H.G.E.).
Views & opinions ex-pressed here are not
necessarily those of H.G.E.
or contributors.
6
ad passion, mad artistry,
and mad love are the ele-
ments that developed M.A.D House, the nail
lacquer line born out of Kansas City, MO. The
launch event for M.A.D House was held April
28th, 2014 at Firefly Lounge on Westport. The
speakeasy atmosphere was the perfect ambi-
ance for the eclectic urban crowd that gathered
to view the showcase. Displays of the nail lac-
(Continued on page 8)
M.A.D. The City’s Gone
BUSINESS
Words: Lena Banks
Photos: Raye Jackson
Fashionable in Black. Je’Ree Hamby flanked by guests at the M.A.D. House launch at the Firefly in Westport
M
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M.A.D. House,
nail lacquer line
Launch Party,
April 28th.
8
Bosede
Iyewarun
BUSINESS
quers were placed throughout the venue while por-
traits of models wearing the polish graced the walls.
The level of artistry of the
décor foretold of a night
of colorful and lively de-
but.
The founder of M.A.D
House, Je’Ree Hamby,
created the House of
Mothers and Daughters
(M.A.D), in honor of her
late great-grandmother, Marion Waters. As a bond-
ing mechanism, Hamby recalls the women in her
family from her great-grandmother on down, com-
ing together for fellowship and comfort over bottles
of nail polish. Hamby states this line is not only
about promoting unique style but the underlying
mission of M.A.D House, which is to “help other
mothers and daughters find a new route of commu-
nication”.
The launch event was hosted by KC’s own Ray Tha
Jerk and Jasmine Jackson. The event was a showcase
of talented performers and models. The opening act,
Precious Nichole, performed a beautiful cover of
(Continued from page 6) “1+1”and the dance group Poison moved the crowd
with their routine to a Beyoncé medley. Two M.A.D
House lines were presented during the showcase,
the Classic
line and the
Rebellious
Glam line.
Models strode
through the
venue donning
the different
polishes with
names such
as, Boy Bait, Ex-boyfriend, and Cocaine. The lac-
quers’ audacious names aren’t the only thing that
sets them apart. M.A.D House uniqueness relies on
its natural components, excluding three main chemi-
cals found in most nail lacquers on the market. It is
also true to color on the first coat and no top coat
is needed.
As the event concluded Hamby was emotional as
she thanked her own mother and reflected on
thoughts of her daughter, these relationships are
what helped inspire her line. Hamby hopes her vi-
sion helps inspire others to build healthy relation-
ships as well.
Polishes with names such as, Boy Bait, Ex-boyfriend, and Cocaine, to name a few.
“Not just style, this line is also to“ help other mothers and daughters find a new route of com-munication”
9
Mad passion, mad artistry, and mad
love are the elements that developed
M.A.D House, the nail lacquer line
born out of Kansas City, MO.
10
INSPIRED
By
LaMonica Moore-Madden
“There is no reward without risk. We’re becoming a more en-trepreneurial society, and those who take risks are more likely to reap greater success.”
11
or those of you graduating from col-
lege and entering into the working world, here is some advice on making successful career/life choices during
your transition. The world is a strange beast at this point in time. When I
graduated from school, there wasn’t a problem finding work in America at all skill levels. Today,
the average college graduate searches 6 to 18 months before landing a good job, and not neces-sarily the desired job. So I’d like to give you some
food for thought when it comes to your career
and life choices.
Make an impact out of the gate. Your education is not over after walking across the stage. Upon
starting that first job, create experiences that make an impact so that you can expand your knowledge and get noticed. Getting noticed early-on will make you more valuable to a company,
which will increase your pay, title, and grant you exposure to bigger
develop-
ments.
Take a job that
you’re excited about. You’ll be
happier. You won’t
mind working the long hours required to accom-plish your desired goals. Life is too short to settle for a job that just pays the bills. If so, you’ll more
than likely become complacent and smart compa-nies will find someone else who wants the job
more. Then, where are you?
There is no reward without risk. We’re becoming a more entrepreneurial society, and those who
take risks are more likely to reap greater success. You can’t do the same thing today that you did yesterday and expect to get ahead. From every
success or failure, you’ll learn something. This will
f COLLEGE GRADS: NEXT STAGE
also show that you’re willing to put your neck on the
line to make something happen. Content of character
speaks volumes.
Start saving for your retirement the moment you re-ceive your first paycheck. Contribute as much as you
can afford. This will establish a regular pattern of sav-ing, and you’ll take advantage of compounding and dol-
lar-cost averaging. Your next egg will grow significantly
over the next 40 years or so.
Pay off your student loans as quickly as possible. Put-
ting extra money toward your debt will be invaluable down the road. While you’re young and able, get a second job at night or on weekends to bring in extra
cash to pay down your debt.
Start saving for an emergency fund. The goal is to have a year’s worth of savings to sustain yourself in the event of unemployment. Start with enough for one
month and build up to 12 months.
Learn how money works. Subscribe to
reputable magazines and websites that focus on financial planning. Stay abreast of economic trends and constantly read
to become more comfortable with your
finances. They are your lifeline.
College graduation brings new challenges for young adults entering the workforce.
Be confident in yourself and your deci-
sions. Explore all opportunities during your job search, as you are at the pinna-
cle of creating an abundant and fulfilled life. Knowing that your main objective is to land that dream job, plan responsibly and continue to learn as much as possible. You will need to become a chame-
leon to adapt to an ever-changing job market which will affect your lifestyle. I wish you the best in all of
your endeavors.
Make an impact out of the gate. Your
education is not over after walking
across the stage. Upon starting that
first job, create experiences that make
an impact so that you can expand your
knowledge and get noticed.
LaMonica Moore -Madden is a Nationally Recognized Personal
Branding Mentor and Catalyst for Women looking to Monetize Their
Brands and Launch Their Dreams in a Big Way. She equips others to MAGNIFY the purpose behind their brand and leave a lasting legacy by
teaching the principles of influence, branding, and divine purpose. Her weekly eZine (Monetize Your Brand Ezine) goes out to thousands of subscriber’s worldwide. Are you ready to Monetize Your Brand and align with your REAL marketplace mission? Sign up for a FREE sub-
scription at www.lamonicamoore.com
12
13
7th Annual
URBAN SUMMIT of Greater KC April 5, 2014
Penn Valley Community College
From Poverty to Prosperity
The Unfinished Agenda
SCENE For a chance to get featured in TWELVE, Add your events to kcsoul.com
14
PLAY
G olf, a Black Man’s game? It’s not
really a question, but a burgeoning phenomenon.
In 1996, Eldrick “Tiger” Woods became a pro
golfer. In a matter of months, he earned the rank
of number one golfer in the world by winning the
1997 Masters. It could be a fluke, except for the
fact that he retained his powerhouse status for
over a decade, as the most dominant player, and
dare we say, “brand” in the game. His image took
a hit as his reported infidelity took center stage in
2009, but it’s undeniable that in his hands, the golf
club becomes a wand, producing magical results.
As the world took notice of Tiger’s play, the Afri-
can-American community took notice, too. Ce-
lebrity tournaments, including those featuring NFL
and NBA greats added to the popularity and visibil-
ity of African-Americans on the course. Yet, it’s
the sport’s role in the migration of urban America
that’s most fascinating. We’ve moved from the
fields of the “South”, dominated the basketball
courts in the “North”, and expanded to the “blue
blood” exclusivity of the golf club. Our play is an-
other example of what we can do given the expo-
sure and opportunity. Known as a breeding ground
for money, even non-golf enthusiasts will host tour-
nament fundraisers to lure affluent golf lovers. Speaking of clubs, before the fanfare of today ig-
nited by “Tiger buzz”, in the Kansas City, African-
American men caught onto the game early. Over
30 years ago, in 1981, locals established the non-
profit, Kansas City Swingers Golf Association
(KCSGA). The club’s objective is “to create friend-
ship and harmony among a group of Black men
from different professions while having fellowship
and fun playing golf.” Steve Kee, member and for-
mer KCSGA president, states that “Our members
include various professionals and business owners
who are giving back.” Today, KCSGA membership
is fairly exclusive, maintaining a roster of no more
than 50.
They start their season in the Spring and play
Thursdays at Swope Memorial Golf Course.
Though social, it’s the club’s philanthropic mission
that’s made it a true community service institution.
That mission can be simply stated as “giving back
through golf”. Five to seven thousand dollars are
(Continued on page 20)
Just a few of the members of the KC Swingers Golf Association on their season opener. The club’s tournaments, which over the last thirty
years, have totaled nearly $100,000. These dollars are then awarded to initiatives to better the community, including scholarships,
KC SWINGERS COURSE OF LIFE
Photos: Raye Jackson
15
Mark Lovelace of
the KC Swingers, Shows off his putt
technique.
16
“Golf is a vehicle where like-minded men, who have grown up can still play and con-nect.”
17
Vic Dyson, President, KC Swingers
Golf Association
Photo: Raye Jackson
twelvekc.com
18
evoted husband, fa-
ther of eight,
grandfather to 11
and great-grandfather to one, currently serving as first base coach for the
American Association’s T-Bones Baseball Club,
conducting hitting and fielding clinics for young
athletes, and working in sales and marketing for a
local roofing company, retired hall of famer Frank
White, Jr. has been known throughout Kansas
City for years as our hometown hero. A loyal
worker and dedicated advocate for various causes
all over the city, Mr. White recently announced
his intention to take on yet another role: candi-
date for the First District At-Large seat on the
Jackson County Legislature. “I’ve been thinking about it for the last couple of
years and I have a strong interest in helping make
(Continued on page 22)
Hall of Famer to Politician
FRANK WHITE
D
By Iman Lott
Photo: Raye Jackson
twelvekc.com
19
Hall of Famer to Politician
FRANK WHITE
GIVE
twelvekc.com
20
raised from each of its tournaments, which over
the last thirty years, have totaled nearly
$100,000. These dollars are then awarded to
initiatives to better the community, including
scholarships, crime prevention through Move-Up
(formerly Ad-Hoc Group against crime); and at-
risk youth support through Operation Break-
through, which serves inner city youth by provid-
ing daycare and after school programming. Ac-
cording to KCSGA president, Vic Dyson, who’s
also Vice President and Director of Sales at
Carter Broadcast Group, “Those dollars are
raised through our two main golf events, the
Spring Scramble tournament and our September
tournament. This second is a 2-day golf tourna-
ment which supports Operation Breakthrough
where 50 kids are given $100 Walmart gift cards
for Christmas.”
Golf, as a sport, is physical, but unlike basketball
or football, rather than fielding opponents, you’re
really competing against yourself. Another differ-
ence is that the golf athlete doesn’t necessarily
reach his apex in his youth. Vic recounts the
days of playing high school and college sports,
where endurance, strength and agility is the win-
ning factor. He appreciates golf as the sport he
(Continued from page 14)
can continue to play for years. “As you get older,
your body changes. Golf is a vehicle where like-
minded men, who have grown up can still play and
connect.”
Speaking of connections, golf is where big business
happens. “It’s opened doors for business. Here,
you’ve got men that are making decisions for their
companies, and you’re there providing the answers
to the questions they have”, says Dyson. Those
answers build relationships. “Our jobs are to
sharpen each other” he says.
Business aside, there’s a greater benefit. Golf is
the perfect get-away. Dyson plays locally and also
travels to play. “Out here, you’re with nature. It’s
surreal. It’s peaceful”, says Dyson.
If you’re not into golf yet, find out if it’s right for
you. If you’re a novice, find a friend and go out and
ride or walk nine holes to see if something you like.
Explore it as a healthy exercise option and an op-
portunity to connect and build relationships. Re-
member, green doesn’t just describe the course. It
describes the earnings potential from connecting
with the right people.
You can learn a lot from the game of golf. 1. Set a target, 2. Apply the right tools for the job. 3. Follow through.
“It’s opened doors for business. Here, you’ve got men that are making decisions for their companies, and you’re there providing the answers to the questions they have”
21
SCENE
The men of Kappa Alpha Psi
Kansas City Alumni Chapter
32nd annual Easter Egg hunt.
Free food and beverages, a
moonwalk, face painting and egg
hunting for various age groups.
For a chance to get featured in TWELVE, Add your events to kcsoul.com
22
my community better”.
Frank currently works with a wide variety of chari-
ties, including the City Union Mission, the Salvation
Army, and the Kansas City Medicine Cabinet. “I
grew up in the
third district in
Kansas City and
that is one of the
areas that needs
a lot of help for
numerous rea-
sons but I just
thought it was a
good way to get
involved more
and continue
what I already
do”.
But why now? After years in retirement, out of the
public eye, why catapult yourself back in? “I’m out
of baseball and I don’t have that 2pm to midnight
shift anymore so I felt like it was time”.
For Mr. White, it’s time to give back even more.“I
asked myself at one point ‘What can I add? What
(Continued from page 18) can I do?’ I have a desire to give younger people
focus. To let them know that I was where they
were. I came up in the inner city. You’ll always
have dreams. Just don’t give up on those dreams
and when you have an opportunity to do what it is
that you want to do give it everything you have”.
From a young
age baseball
was Frank
White’s pas-
sion. As an
adult, he par-
layed his pas-
sion into a
career. Start-
ing with play-
ing, graduating
to coaching,
and later an-
nouncing. With this upcoming run for office, could
this be the end of the pursuit of his passion?
“They say never say never but I think that if I’m
elected I could see myself along with my roofing
job, being pretty busy so if there is something I
would be able to work out temporarily in terms of
(Continued on page 35)
You”ll alwaYs have dreams. Just don’t give up on those dreams and when you have an opportunity to do what it is that you want to do give it everything you have.
White was a raw, un-recruited youth base-
ball player when he was selected to attend Ewing Kauffman’s innovative Baseball Acad-emy in Sarasota, Florida. From there he
went on to play second base for the Royals for 18 years, earning eight Gold Gloves and five All-Star Game appearances. He batted clean-up in all seven games of the 1985
World Series for the Royals, a feat only accomplished by one other second base-man: Jackie Robinson. One of the most
popular players ever to sport the KC blue, White was inducted into the Royals Hall of Fame in 1995 and a statue was erected
inside Kauffman Stadium in his honor. From the Frank White, Jr. biography.
23
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TIPS
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FITNESS
by: Corey Phillips
Objective Burn Fat, Strengthen Muscle, And Flatten Stomach.
This exercise isolates the mid-abdominal area (stay tuned for lower or
upper abdominal)
Equipment Weight-Approximately 10lbs (less or more based on condition)
Mat-To Elevate Your Back
Position Feet flat on the surface
Rear of lower back hanging off the mat
Shoulders slightly hanging off
To create a slight curvature for the mid-abdominal focus required
Exercise 1. With weight overhead, crunch (lift and squeeze) your abdominal
area
2. When you crunch, hold for two seconds
3. Inhale on Crunch
4. Exhale when you lower to first position
5. Repeat
Safety --Light weight
--Good grip
--Keep it dry
For more information visit trilogyexplosion.com or
email us at info@trilogyexplosion.com
SUMMER CRUNCH PART 1
twelvekc.com
29
SUMMER CRUNCH [MID-ABDOMINAL EXERCISE]
Feet flat on the surface
Rear of lower back
hanging off the mat
Shoulders slightly hang-
ing off
To create a slight curva-
ture for the mid-
abdominal focus re-
quired
twelvekc.com
30
SNEAKFEST 2014 | 3.29.14
Wedding Planning
Our company has six years of experience with
servicing over 25 clients. We provide wedding and
event planning, at an affordable cost. Contact:
E-mail: bweddingsandevents@yahoo.com
Instagram: theweddingdiva
You-Tube: theweddingdiva
www.bweddingsandevents.com
Mrs. Christina Young-Jenkins
twelvekc.com
WEDDING
31
Tip 3. Establish a budget, and stick to it! After you've made
all of the important decisions, establish a budget. Most weddings in the Kansas
City area average $21,000. This amount broken down over 12 months is an
estimated $1750 per month.
Tip 4. Prioritize - Tackle the important elements first. Most couples fo-
cus on their reception, because it consumes the most time and resources. Re-
member not everything needs to be finalized in one day.
Tip 5. Carry cash - Of course when your big day arrives you want to be
at a zero balance; however, some vendors may require payment the day of the
event. Provide your coordinator with the amount of cash in order to pay all
balances in full.
Time & Money QUICK PLANNING TIPS FOR YOUR BIG DAY
Mrs. Christina Young-Jenkins
WEDDING SUPPLIERS & VENDORS: Planners, Decorators, Caterers, Venues, Stylists, Photographers & More.
JOIN OUR FEATURES EMAIL: twelve@kcsoul.com for information.
Tip 1. Decisions, Decisions - The first step after your engagement is to think about your vision of your special day. Before jumping the broom, take time with your fi-
ancé to establish an inspiration board. Creating the inspiration board can be a fun activity
with family and friends.
Tip 2. 12 months til I-Do - Give yourselves time to save money for your big day,
optimally at least 12 months. This allows for you to afford items that may otherwise have
been too costly.
32
LOVE
twelvekc.com
33
One Love. Matthew Ferguson and Chrystal Headd
Wedding Date Sept 6, 2015
Engaged April 16, 2012
In the beginning They originally met in college, when Chrystal was a contestant for Alpha Phi Alpha’s Miss
Black & Gold pageant. “He was playing hard to get,” Chrystal says. “In the beginning, it was like, ‘Are you interested, not interested?…I felt like he was hard to read.” We
started talking, then, it kinda died off. Then I wasn’t interested.” But in 2011, Chrystal caught Matt’s eye again at a wedding recep-
tion. It still took a few months, but they fi-nally connected in December and realized they were on to something.
What’s the key for lasting relationship? These two have this figured out. “Trust”,
Matt says, “Doing things the person you’re in love with can trust. Creating a track record of trust.” but also being able to forgive. Don’t
worry about the silly things and stupid stuff. Fundamentally, put yourself in a mindset that when you wake up in the morning, this is the
person you’re in a relationship with and love. You don’t have to agree or accept everything. Know what battles to fight. Chrystal agrees
and also offers that communication is key.
“You have to express how you feel. You can’t solve problems that are not shared.”
How do you find the one? People have to change their level of expecta-tions on “how” the love of their life will come
about, is what Chrystal advises. “It’s not al-ways a certain place, order or time. Not a certain profile you search for. It could be
someone you already know.”
Matthew Ferguson
and
Chrystal Headd
34
LOVE
twelvekc.com
Darryle Richardson, Jr.
& Deidre Jones
Photo:
Jessikha Williams
35
One Love. Deidre Jones and Darryle Richardson, Jr.
Wedding Date
October 4, 2014
Engaged
February 16, 2013
The Proposal
Call him Mr. Romantic. Darryle had the surprise occa-
sion planned with dinner reservation. The setting was
Valentine’s weekend at the Capital Grille. Upon arrival,
Derrick whispered in his waiter’s ear to put the plan in
motion. The engagement ring was brought out as the
dessert, and after a drop to the knee, apparently, she said
YES.
In the beginning
1997, is the year it all began for these two. They met at
the movies, through mutual acquaintances. They were
even prom dates. Though off-and-on throughout the
years, it’s a relationship that seems to be well-tested.
When you knew
Darryle says, “I knew in 1999 she was the one, but we
still had growing up to do. But now, we’ve gone through
trials and tribulations. I can’t see myself without her.”
For Deidre, she discovered later she it was time. “After
the birth of my youngest daughter, in 2007, I was ready.
“I was like, Ok. When is he going to ask?”
What about Relationships these days?
Radio airwaves are replete with “Independent women”
anthems, but Deidre believes much of it is a front. “A lot
of women want to get married, she says.” I’m the first to
get married in my circle…my age group. Everyone is
pushing for us to have a fairytale wedding.” They both
agree that you don’t find long-term love in the clubs.
What do you look forward to?
Darryle states, “Growing old together. Seeing the kids
watch us grow together and showing them that at strong
marriage can happen.”
Wedding planning
According to Deidre, “Wedding Planning is stressful. It’s
fun, but stressful, so I’m glad we have our favorite person,
here, our wedding planner (Christina Young-Jenkins). For
the planning and money that goes into it’s definitely
something I don’t want to do again! Darryle, like most
guys, doesn’t shoulder the brunt of the planning responsi-
bilities. The biggest thing I did was find her,”( Christina).
What’s the key for lasting relationship?
Deidre states “Keeping God first, communication. Not
letting everyone in your business and pray.”
games and things I would be more than willing to help”.
As we talk I wonder more and more if his recent pivot
into politics is the launch of a second career. “At this
point I don’t have any aspirations beyond the county.
Being involved in the city council or even being the
mayor, those are full time positions and despite how it
appears, I want spare time!”
Family is important to Mr. White. That is evident by
our surroundings. Family pictures cover every wall of
the room we are sitting in radiating with his love for
them and the memories they’ve yet to make.
“The biggest thing was convincing my wife that this was
a good idea. Politics can bring out things in your past
that can come back to the surface. Sometimes you can
hear a lot of negative stuff that you have to be strong
enough to move past especially when a lot of it is not
even true”. “Candidate” White is aware that this is new territory
for him.
“You really need people in your life who are willing to
support and contribute when you are pushing for some-
thing like this. You need the advice of people who have
been there and done that. I am not going into this thing
thinking I know everything and I’m not afraid to say
there are things I just don’t know…but I’ll find out.”
That you will, Mr. White.
(Continued from page 22)
Frank White, Jr.
& wife, Teresa
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YOUTH
-Principles Honor Roll since
9th grade
-27 ACT score
-1st Team All Conference
Outfielder (2 times)
-1st Team All District Out-
fielder
-Varsity Softball layer since
9th grade
-I.Q. is 138
-9th place at ASA Northern
Nationals
-Plays for the Mac-n-Seitz Leg-
acy 18a fast pitch team
40
YOUTH
magazine
YOUTH
By
LeAndrea Mack
41
Aubree is an ambitious
young writer and entrepre-neur who decided not to wait until she “grew up” before she would become something! Cultivating her love for literature when she was just six years old, Au-bree plans, organizes, and hosts events specific to child literacy and promoting reading. She encour-ages everyone to use a valuable source of entertainment...THEIR IMAGINATION! She is the assistant manager of the Junior Royalty Book Club, an event held four times a year at the Kansas City Plaza Library, where girls ages 5-13 read popular books, dis-cuss the content, and practice eti-quette and public speaking. As the Junior Chief Executive Officer for WordPowerUSA, Aubree has pro-duced a children's book collection
tackling tough issues such as child-hood obesity, bullying, global warming, and the spread of germs. Her collection has even been in-corporated in programs throughout the St Louis & Kansas City area. Her mission is to help other children see the power that reading can provide and the confidence that it brings. Aubree believes that once you’ve learned how to read, the next step is to learn how to apply what you’ve read, expound on those ideas, and eventually de-velop your own. Aubree is considered an uncon-ventional learner and she shares tips with parents and students like her. Conventional learning came to hamper her profound talents and cognitive abilities because her parents were relying only on a classroom setting to provide her learning experience. This proved to be boring and disengaging for Au-bree. It is important for any child to learn how to thrive in a classroom setting but her parents quickly learned that it also limited her. They began allowing her to have real life experiences with public speaking, earning money, and planning events. As a result, her interper-sonal skills, mathematical ability, and problem solving intuition soared.
To find out more about Aubree and
her company visit: WordPow-
erUSA.com or contact the KC Plaza
Library for a schedule of her events
with the Junior Royalty Book Club.
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CREATE
ovie making in Kansas City?
Though known for our music, “jazz”, the idea of film work shouldn’t be a farfetched idea for
us to grasp. If you trace the city’s roots, you’ll find that Kansas City was once a ma-jor distribution hub for Hollywood films. The downtown and crossroads area boasted consider-
able industry types and movie ad agencies. Of course, Walt Disney grew up in KC and created the famed Mickey Mouse just off 31st street in his
Laugh-O-Grams animation studio before eventu-
ally heading to Los Angeles. Even a handful of na-tional films have been shot here in part. Legen-
dary television and film director, Robert Altman,
who was born and raised in KC, shot the movie,
“Kansas City (1996)”, in town with Harry Bela-fonte. So the question now is: Who’s Next?
Photographer and filmmaker Diallo Javonne French is ready to answer the call. Having already
achieved some success in the short-film area with four short films to his credit, he’s now preparing
for his first a feature film titled, “A Song for You.” It combines two of his greatest passions, music and photography.
He’s confident he can produce at this level. His last short film, “May this Be Love”, won an Urban
Media Maker award in Atlanta and was featured on, BET’s film showcase, Lens on Talent. Having a keen eye, his photography has even been featured on Hallmark Cards.
Are You Originally from Kansas City? Yes originally from KC...KCK.
Diallo
Javonne
French
FADE TO BLACK… AND WHITE
M
43
What inspired you to get into film and photog-
raphy? I started out as a musician. Music is my first love, but I was always fascinated with the filmmaking process. I
bought an 8mm film camera when I was 19 years old. I shot a music video using Michael Jackson's song "I Can't Help It". The rest is history.
Why focus on black and white? I love black & white because it makes everything time-less. I want my work to never go out of style.
What type of films do you want to make? My focus is films that center around music. My lead
characters are usually musicians. I would also like to direct some documentaries about some of my favorite music artists...Michael Jackson, Bobby Watson, Marva Whitney, J-Dilla, etc.
What makes your work different or unique? What makes my work different is that I like to tell sto-
ries through images and music. My films never have a lot of dialogue. The visual is more powerful to me than
words. I guess I think talk is cheap.
Diallo wants to make this a community effort and has started fundraising and you can be a part of it. “I will be
seeking out private investors and small production companies. Getting the money to shoot a film is very difficult. The community can help by just getting the
word out. The great thing about all this is more people know about the project. Hopefully that will lead me in the direction of some investors.”
We’d bet the combination of talent and persistence will secure Diallo’s space on the silver screen soon.
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SCENE
The Art of Spoken Word 3
| Bold.Poets |
National Poetry Month
Friday, April 18 Just Off Broadway Theatre in
Kansas City, Missouri
46
Although she is only 11 years old, this
statuesque beauty already stands 5’6” in tall.
I guess we can attribute that to genetics,
since she is the daughter of the late NFL
lineman and Superbowl champion Wayne
Simmons. However, this sister is making a
name for herself as an actress, model and
recording artist. You see, this young lady has quite a
voice, and started humming tunes before
she could even talk, so it was apparent that
she would be a singer even before she was a
year old. Her natural evangelical side made
her stand out in church, so she was chosen
to sing and minister through song for the
praise and worship team at St. James United
Methodist Church, and was frequently given
solos that normally require a more mature
voice. She has a God-given gift to deliver.
The congregation would always be wowed
by this little girl’s ability, and they recog-
nized early on that she truly has something
special. Since she is a go getter and willing
to utilize healthy competition, she has also
placed first in several talent shows. As fate would have it, while singing in
church, Ms. Simmons was scouted by author
Derrick Barnes who wrote the children’s
book series, Ruby and the Booker Boys,
which can be found at Barnes and Noble
and Amazon.com. He felt that Wrayne’s
jovial, fearless and mature spirit personified
the main character of his book series Ruby.
He believed that she would be the perfect
fit to bring his character to life. After a brief interview at Barnes’ home,
they started working to bring his vision to
pass. Wrayne went to work with producer
and bassist Tyrone Yarbrough of Kansas
City’s own Lo-Key. Not only does Wrayne
sing well, but she also has a fantastic ear for
music. Although she has a natural talent, it
was further developed when she started
playing the piano and trombone. As musi-
cians, producers, and singers know, it is very
important to have a good ear. It allows you
to hear melodies and harmonies easily, so
with only a few takes, she had recorded
their own rendition of the song Ain’t No
YOUTH
Wrayne Simmons. TALENTED
By Shemeka Cockerm
magazine
47
Sunshine by Bill Withers. With this updated
hip-hop version of the song they were able
to create a movie clip and a music video
with more to come. Since Wrayne is so easy to work with
and does not believe in the “diva” persona
she has also been the muse of the Xii Maga-
zine October edition. She was a model for
the Alter EGO photo shoot and was fea-
tured in the Annual Greek Halloween Party
video advertisement, produced by Clarence
Lomax. Needless to say, this girl is going places,
with the winning combination of her pleas-
ant personality, and work ethic, doors will
continue to open. The thing I find most in-
triguing and slightly ironic about Wrayne, is
that her dream is actually not to be a celeb-
rity singer, but a famous gourmet chef, and
no one can change her mind about that. In
fact, she is so passionate about cooking and
owning a restaurant, that it is as if it was her
profession in a past life. She has written an
entire business plan, and has decided almost
every architectural detail and dish that will
be featured at “The STOHNE”,
(pronounced “stone”) which is her middle
name. Friends and family that remember her as
a toddler recall that when asked what she
wanted to be when she grows up, the re-
sponse would always predictably be “A
Rachael Raye”. Now she whips up delightful
desserts and entrees and she can put most
adults to shame with her meals. With her
decisiveness and focus, she is truly position-
ing herself to be very successful in all of her
endeavors, whether culinary or vocal.
48
YOUTH
By Shemeka Cockerm
magazine
twelvekc.com
49
admit it, with so many distractions on social media it is very easy for me to totally tune out, however while scrolling through my feed on Facebook, I could-n’t help but to take notice of a series of
some simply amazing shots being posted by mom Mika White of her daughter Keni. The shots were comparable in my personal inter-pretation to those of Dominique Dawes, or Gabby Douglass, but it turns out that the source of Keni’s athleticism is actually dance and choreography. Since I knew that we were going to be focusing on some of Kansas City’s bright-est youngsters Keni quickly came to mind and naturally it was imperative that I schedule a chat with Keni and her mom asap. True to the Midwest, although the previ-ous day was sunny and mild, the day I met Keni was dreary and chilly, so I took some time to warm up with a hot cup of or-ganic mint tea while I waited for the new driver Miss White to arrive. Isn’t it ironic that while teens are looking for freedom when they learn to drive, parents sometimes have a hidden agenda as well that may be quietly lurking in the back of their minds. That is, that they now can assume having some help with younger siblings and quick runs to the grocery store. Needless to say, Keni was helping her parents by taking her sister to an appointment, thus being 16 and getting her driver’s license is a win, win situation for her whole family. This part of Keni’s story began when her mother noticed that Keni was an active child and en-joyed the reactions she sparked as a toddler
when she danced. Mika saw natural talent in Keni and enrolled her in dance classes. When ask how she would describe her daughter, Mika said that she is a very humble, funny, and somewhat serious young lady. My first observa-tion of Keni is that she is also eloquent and very well spoken. It is my impression that if she de-cided not to become a professional dancer, that she could have a great career in public relations. Keni has a confident and poised nature and she answered all of my questions with authenticity, and spoke her truth.
Keni is a very decorated choreographer and dancer and as a 12 year veteran her signature style includes jazz, contemporary, and hip-hop. Her skills were honed at Studio J and she admits that her teacher has been the most influential person to her in dance. Some of her awards include: Na-tional Dance week Center Stage Award, Talent on Pa-rade Top Entertainer, and Miss Masquerade. She has also earned yearlong schol-arships to over seven na-tional dance conventions.
And the list goes on.
Amazingly, Keni scored in the top five at
Adrenaline Nationals in Las Vegas, with a per-
formance that she choreographed herself. I
think it is fantastic that Keni sees herself as a
role model for other girls and strives to live up
to such a weighty responsibility. I asked this ex-
traordinary girl to give us some advice for
those who will come up behind her, she said
wisely, “stay focused on what you do, because
there are always other people who will try to
bring you down. Don’t let ‘em, just don’t let
‘em.”
“stay focused on what
you do, because there
are always other people
who will try to bring you
down. Don’t let ‘em,
just don’t let ‘em.”
50
Daniel is a member of House of Refuge Family Worship
Center in Kansas City, MO where he serves under the
leadership of Pastor-Elder Classie Brown-Hill as youth
minister. He’s been active as:
- Part of the Disney Academy entrepreneur-
ship program with Steve Harvey
-Participant in the 2013 Missouri Legislative
Black Caucus Foundation Emerging Leaders
Program.
-Member of the Fellowship of Christian Ath-
letes.
-Member of Debate team, choir, writer for the
school newsletter and plays in the school or-
chestra.
- Youth worker at Kansas City’s Nelson Arts
Museum.
He plans to attend Bacone College where he was
awarded the Christian Ministry Students of Promise
Scholarship, (100% tuition paid) for all 4 years of col-
lege. He will earn degrees in Theology and Political
Science. His future goals are to be a business owner,
minister, and mentor to other young men.
At home, Daniel can be found assisting his mother,
Tracy and caring for his younger sister Dominica.
Minister
Daniel Johnson
Favorite scripture:
They that trust in the Lord shall be as mount Zion, which cannot be removed, but abideth for ever. Psalms 125:1
YOUTH
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Thu 05/22 UMKC Women of Color Lead-ership Conference. Keynote: Judy Smith Inspiration for TV's SCANDAL UMKC Student Union, 5100 Cherry St. 8a-5p Fri 05/23 Introducing 4th Fridays l 25 & Up Nightlife Venue: 1116 Grand Blvd KCMO Time: 10:00 PM-2:30 AM Location: Qudos Cigar Bar Producer: Club Kouture Sat 05/31 All White Affair Event type: Party Venue: ArtTech: 1522 Holmes St KCMO Time: 9:00 PM - 2:00 AM Omicron Iota Iota Buffalo Soldier Ques Contact: Damon L. Augustine Email: augidawg91@yahoo.com Sun 06/01 School is Done. Summer Fun Venue: Alpha Bldg 2915 Swope PKWY Time: 3:00 PM - 7:00 PM Producer: LEGACY Foundation Contact: Jonathan Smith Email: jona-thansmith@ourlegacyfoundation.org Web: www.ourlegacyfoundation.org
Fri 06/06 | First Fridays | XII Mag Mixer, Join the Team. Aloft Sat 06/07 Sean Tyler : Music After Dark Event type: Concert Uptown Theater: 3700 Broadway KCMO Time: 7:30 PM - 12:00 PM Producer: II Tall Entertainment LLC Contact: Jennifer Richardson Email: iitallentertainment@yahoo.com Phone: 9198052287 Mon 06/09 INROADS Midwest Golf Tour Event type: Fundraiser Venue: DEER CREEK GOLF COURSE: 7 Time: 7:00 AM - 12:00 PM PINROADS Midwest Region Contact: Lathon Ferguson Email: lferguson@inroads.org Web: http://inroads.org/midwestgolf Tues 06/10 3rd NETWORK with the 100 Sat 06/14 JuneteenthKC Event type: Community Action Venue: 1616 E. 18th Street : KCMO Time: 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM Producer: Legacy Development, Contact: Makeda peterson Email: petersonmc@live.com
Sat 06/21 Big Hats & Bow Ties Scholar-ship Affair Event type: Fundraiser Venue: Wine Barn Winery & Vineyard: 2850 N 119th St Kansas City KS Time: 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM Producer: AKA-URO Contact: Courtney Wills Email: Phone: 913.667.9038 Sat 06/21 Christian Women of the Year Event type: Community Action Venue: Jack Reardon Convention Ctr Time: 11:00 AM - 2:30 PM Producer: Alpha Epsilon Zeta Contact: Shellie Stallings Email: zphibkck@yahoo.com Sat 06/28 Kansas City Greek Picnic 2014 Event type: Community Action Venue: Swope Park: Kansas City MO Time: 12:00 PM - 6:00 PM Producer: I'm Greek and I'm Proud Email: kcgreekpicnic@gmail.com
Web: www.kcgreekpicnic.com
kcsoul.com KCs Urban Source. Add Your Events!
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CALENDAR
GET THE JOB
GROW THE BUSINESS
MAKE THE CONNECTIONS
network100.kcsoul.com
JUNE 10TH join HUNDREDS at the 3rd Annual Network with the 100 at
UMKC. RSVP for FREE Entry By 6/2/14 at network100.kcsoul.com
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Saturday, April 19, 2014
Westin Crown Center
Co-Sponsored By: Delta Educational and Economic Development
Foundation & Kansas City Missouri Alumnae
Chapter, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
2014 Cotillion 29th Annual Scholarship &
Development Program
Formal Presentation
SCENE
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