David and Tamela Mann featured on cover of Consciousness Magazine

Edition - 2019 Vol. 15 Issue 1

Feature Contents

06 Amazing Transformation - Shree Goodie 10 Lamman Rucker [Interview] Veteran actor discuss Powerful Film and Latest Projects

11 Short-term Investing 13 Health: Whitening Teeth with Dr. Kevin Sands 14 David & Tamela Mann [Exclusive Interview]

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10

Power Couple discuss Marriage, Recent Book, Album and more

20 Actor and Humanitarian Chaz Shepherd “Utilizing Gifts, Making a Difference in People’s Lives”

20 Sports: Harlem Globetrotter Herbert Lang [Interview]

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Professional Basketball Player talks about his career as a Globetrotter

26 The Levo G2 Deluxe Tablet Stand [Product Review]

Regular Content Just Thinking

By Dorothy Robinson

Life is full of surprises, happiness, heartaches and pain.

Life is more important than you think it is.

What you make of it…

I could go on and on but I must stop there.

And always remember, Life is no game.

Take it serious not delirious.

Cover Photo: David & Tamela Mann

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04 Editor’s Page 05 Letters/ Awareness 11 Words of Encouragement 11 Business/ Profile 12 Environmental Elements 13 Health Solutions 20 Sports Community 26 Album-Book-Movie Review(s) 26 Know Your Rights Teen: College Spirit Section

Editor ’s Note :

CONSCIOUSNESS

“Urban Inspiration”

Measure of Success

STAFF

Founder & Editor Aaron Robinson

Senior Vice President Mozella Malone

Administrative Asst.

Julia M. Robinson Josephine Robinson Consultant Frank Robinson Fred Robinson

Public Relations Marketing / Promotions A&M Marketing Group

Advertising Agency A&M Marketing Group MediaBids

Photographer

A&M Marketing Group

Many believe that success is measured by our finances and material things that we may possess. I’ve always asked myself, “Are we socialize to think that we are successful by those means.” I believe that success is measured by a person’s experiences, such as the goals and challenges that he or she has overcome or defeated.

Be mindful that there are individuals that may have gained success by overcoming illnesses, hurt and pain, or those who may have waited days or years to get out of a situation and achieved just that. Some may have shifted gears or took another course with their endeavors. By possessing strong ambitions or drives individuals may finally be able to discover the light at the end of the tunnel.

Graphic Design / Web Designer

A&M Marketing Group

Illustrator / Comics Eric Plaut

Proofreader

Tocarra Eldridge

Writers/Journalists

Tocarra Eldridge Dr. Shanessa Fenner Elder Lee M. Harris, Sr. Sirrocco Hogue Darnell Jodan Eric Plaut

Special Correspondent

In this issue we will learn about individuals, in hopes to gain insight from their testimonies while desiring to understand what the motive is behind their success.

There will also be inspiring content of articles and events, in hopes to enlighten and broaden your mind.

Lashana Barker Russell Norman Hector De La Rosa

Reviews

Tocarra Eldridge Darnell Jordan Hector De La Rosa Aaron Robinson

Contributors

Aaron Robinson Founder & Editor

About Consciousness Magazine™

“Keeping our Pen on the Pulse of the Community” Consciousness Magazine “Urban Inspiration,” is committed to raising the level of consciousness of the residents in our community. The mission of Consciousness Magazine is to promote understanding, make a difference in society, touch hearts, as well as, emphasize positive celebrities and significant social figures through strong articles and compelling visuals. This publication embraces ethnicity and multicultural, in hopes of bringing different cultures together in peace and friendship.

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Jeff Hagen Ryan Latimer

Syndicated Content Allison Kugel

Views expressed by advertisers and/or press release are their own and do not necessarily represent the views of Consciousness Magazine™. Consciousness Magazine™ will not be held responsible or liable for advertisers misinformation, misprints, or typographical errors, etc., herein contained.

Consciousness Magazine™ requires that all advertisement be in compliance with all applicable laws and be truthful and not offensive or detrimental to individuals, groups, or businesses. Consciousness Magazine™ reserve the right to revise, delete, objectionable words or phrases, and refuse any advertising it deems unacceptable.

Subscription rates; $24.00 per year (6 Issues) Consciousness Magazine™ ISSN:1553-5568 is published

by Robinson Publishing, Inc. Postmaster: Send address Change and Subscription Orders to: P.O. Box 2496, Kankakee, Illinois 60901, Phone: (312) 715-7884 Email: info@consciousnessmagazine.com. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without written permission from the Publisher. ©2019 Consciousness Magazine™. All Rights Reserved.

Letters A Great Read The LaTavia Roberson interview was a good read. I love the way she opens up in the interview and tells her life story to the writer. I never knew so much was going on in her life. This story was very enlightening to me. Thanks for sharing!

Toya Martin New York

An Informative Change Thank you very much for my complimentary copy of Consciousness Magazine. I have read it and it is very interesting, informative and overall is a good publication. It has everything a magazine needs. I have been encouraged by the articles written by the founder himself. May God continue to use him to reach others. Nobody, I really mean nobody knows what anybody is going through in this world but almighty God. One simple word or a collaboration of words can encourage, give hope, inspire, and change the course of ones destiny. Greater things are in store.

Tawa Bishi England

Psitivity I think it’s important to continue to publish great work. I have been a follower of Consciousness for some time now and am still in awe of some of the people you have featured in your past editions such as Booker T Huffman of the WWE, NBA Hall of Famer Isiah Thomas, Blair Underwood, the late Dr. Maya Angelou and so on. I amend you all for being role models and for not following the trends in such a competitive industry, and also for sticking with positivity.

Randy

Chicago

Great Press Consciousness Magazine has great press coverage. I love everything, from the content to the design layout. This publication is really informal and very inspiring to my family and friends. Keep up the great work.

Richard Vale Los Angeles

Write to us: We want to know what you’re thinking.

Send emails to info@consciousnessmagazine.com. Include your name, address, and telephone number. Letters may be edited for clarity and/or length. For Customer Service and Subscriptions visit us at www.consciousnessmagazine.com.

Consciousness Awareness:

Teen Success In today’s pressured world, many teens are afraid to fail-and even-afraid to succeed. They don’t want to stick out, whether for good or bad. They want to be accepted, and just ‘fit in.’

This type of mentality will lead you nowhere but the path to mediocrityand that is nothing to be proud of. As Douglas Malloch so aptly wrote: If you can’t be a highway then just be a trail, If you can’t be the sun be a star; It isn’t by size that you win or you failBe the best of whatever you are!

Each of us have different talents and different abilities, so don’t get me wrong, it’s not about being the best-but rather about being the best YOU can personally become. The hockey great Wayne Gretzky has said “You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.” Think about that. If you don’t try, you have a 0% chance of success! But if you put all your heart into something, and work hard, you can and will succeed in whatever you will. And if it turns out your best wasn’t good enough, then at least you tried-and will have no regrets and no wonders of ‘what could have been.’

The only way to discover the limits of the possible is to go beyond them, into the impossible.

With that in mind, let me share with you what Michael Jordan has said: “I have missed more than 9000 shots in my career. I have lost almost 300 games. On 26 occasions I have been entrusted to take the game winning shot... and missed. And I have failed over and over and over again in my life. And that is why... I succeed.”

So from one teen to another: I encourage you to do today what others won’t, to have tomorrow what others never will do.

-By Jeff Hagen

Lakishia Murray “Someone You Should Know”

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Photography: Jamaal D. Lathan Photography www.jamaaldlathanphotography.com Makeup Artist: Lakishia Murray (Lash-A Makeup Studio) http://www.blinkbylasha.com Hairstylist: Chastiny Lemon (Charismatic Hair) http://www.blinkbylasha.com

Makeup Artist

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Shree Goodie

Amazing Transformation:

For a while, Shree Goodie has had an undeniable spirit remaining positive, uplifted and happy while having a long battle with breast cancer. The road has not been easy for Shree throughout the process as she has endured many ups-and-downs while dealing with this chronicle illness. Though, she maintains a positive spirit and a true determination to love.

In the photographs, the makeup, fashion and photography tells her story, illustrating to other women who have been diagnosed with breast cancer or any other form of cancer that are still beautiful and powerful women.

Photographer: Jamaal D. Lathan (Jamaal D. Lathan Photography) Makeup Artist /Stylist/Creative Director: LaKishia Murray (Lash-A Makeup Studio) www.jamaaldlathanphotography.com

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Lamman Rucker chats about film Service To Man

Interviewed and writtern by Aaron Robinson - Editor

A

lways standing with confidence and poise, actor, activist, educator and entrepreneur Lamman Rucker is not only a man filled with integrity, more so, a man filled with an abundance of wisdom.

Every time I interview the dynamic actor, it is always a pleasure to learn from him and reap the joy of his humbling presence. It is evident of the roles he chooses in films and why he has a heart of giving back by supporting numerous organization community efforts.

Rucker has an impressive list of acting credits. A few of the films he’s played in includes, “Why Did I Get Married?”, “Why Did I Get Married Too?”, and “Meet The Browns”. He recently stars in the TV drama series Greenleaf. Rucker recently played the electrifying role of Dr. Johnson in the film Service To Man, alongside talented actors such as Keith David, Morgan Auld, and Christopher Livingston, just to name several. The film is directed by Aaron Greer and Seth Panitch and is streaming through Freestyle Digital Media.

I had the opportunity to interview the veteran actor concerning his role as Dr. Johnson in the film Service To Man and his latest happenings. Here is what Lamman Rucker has to share with the readers.

Aaron Robinson: Tell us a little about your character, Dr. Johnson, in the film Service To Man. Lamman Rucker: Dr. Johnson is based on a character named Dr. Henry Moses, who was at Meharry Medical College for a very long time. He is very well respected.

Dr. Johnson’s character has a similar tradition with the community. He is very invested in his students, has a very sense of pride and belief, and is what Meharry stands for.

He’s a person who’s making sure those students respect what Meharry Medical College is about; he doesn’t take it lightly. He is very serious in making sure that they are there for the right reasons, especially when these white kids show up. He knows what it’s like for people of the time to want to be doctors, because they just want to be doctors. They want that title or they are thinking they are going to just get out here and make a whole lot of money.

Dr. Johnson’s the one who helps keep them honest, who keeps them disciplined and teaches them to make sure they remember why they are there in the first place. Dr. Henry Moses prayer is making sure the legacy of that institution and the integrity of the profession is maintained.

Aaron: The film is based on a true story from the 60’s.

Regarding the history of that time, has the film had an impact on your life?

Lamman: Yes! I think what’s interesting is that sometimes we forget about all the other people that were living in the country at that time. When you’re hearing about the 60’s, you’re either hearing about the people who were at war or the people who were active in the civil rights movement.

We forget about the fact that there were also kids in school.

You got our little girls that were killed in the church bombing.

You know that there are young people that exist but you still kind of forget like, “Oh yeah!” What about the ones that were at college that weren’t necessarily in the movement that’s trying to live, that was trying to get by, or that’s just Continue on page 22

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Business Profile

SHORT-TERM INVESTING Written by Ryan Latimer

should be invested aggressively, keep in mind that the drop or hits you will take will usually be made up by the market’s long-term growth.

Short Term Focus will be needed in the next 1-3 years should be invested more cautiously. You might not have time to make up for any drops in your investment. If you will need the money within the next three years you are probably going to want to also avoid mutual funds and real estate investment trusts which can drop if interest rates increase.

If you will need the money within the next five years you are going to want to avoid individual stocks. Some safe investments for your short-term investment goals should include: • Treasury strips • Low-Risk Stock Funds • Bonds • Loan Participation Funds While many investors have established a personal investment plan for their short & long-term financial goals, few people have focused on the need for a savings plan and investment plan to meet their short-term goals. Some important decisions to make in order to attain your short-term financial goals should include: 1. How will you reach the goal?

2. How much risk can you or are you willing to take?

3. How you will invest to meet the goal?

4. How soon will you need the assets/money to meet your goal?

There are a variety of investment choices when investing for your short-term financial/investment goals. You could be saving for a new house, a vacation, a new car, or education for your children.

Cash and cash equivalents are smart choices for when considering your short-term investment goals, saving for a “rainy day” or emergency fund. Some of the most popular types of cash equivalent investments include: Treasury bills, certificates of deposit, some types of money bonds, money market accounts and money market funds.

Most investment advisors will tell you to take as much risk as you can take in order to build your wealth and reach your investment goals.

Some people are content to just leave their money in a bank savings account collecting a minimal amount of interest. Something to consider if you are going to leave your money in a bank account; the average interest yield on a taxable money-market account is around 1.5% compared to a 3% CD returns. But keep in mind that inflation should be factored in to the investment.

When it comes to evaluating your short-term financial goals, you don’t want to look at investments options that only return 1.5-3%. You want to look at options that will return significantly more than a paltry 3%.

In order to achieve your short-term goals and make your investments worthwhile, you want to have a return of at least 8%. Your plan of attack should have 2 areas of focus. Long Term Focus (i.e. retirement)

These are safe and stable investment options that won’t expose you to much risk. Also, they don’t require a large initial investment. When investing, investors need to keep in mind that the real return on their investment is the return they have left after they pay Uncle Sam and his cousins in the state and local tax collection offices. There is a huge difference between a 10% gain taxed at 36% and a 10% gain taxed at 20%. You need to consider the waiting time when investing and cashing out your investments.

You need to ensure that you get the most favorable tax rate possible when selling an investment. Tax consequences should always be something you should consider when selling an investment, especially short-term capital gains. You should never let taxes be the tail that wags the investment dog. The decision whether to keep or sell an investment should never be made based on tax consequences alone.

For more information on figuring out how taxes affect your investment decisions, you should contact your broker or tax professional.

Words-of-Encouragement

Inspirational Quote

By Chuck D (Public Enemy)

It’s no excuse to dumb yourself down or young yourself down in this society. Know that wisdom and understanding do not come quick, but live your young life and enjoy it. Having an older life is enjoyable too, but take your time.

(Excerpt taken from a prior interview with Consciousness Magazine.)

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Call 312-715-7884 or visit www.consciousnessmagazine.com Consciousness Magazine 11

Environmental: EarthTalk

Greener Lifestyle Who are some of the greener movie stars out there today and what are they doing to fight for the planet?

Stacey DiGiorno, Chevy Chase, MD

While a handful of Hollywood A-listers—Robert Redford, Meryl Streep and Ed Begley Jr., to name a few —have been actively campaigning for the environment for decades, a new wave of green celebrities is using star power to help convince millions of fans around the world to live greener lifestyles and speak up for environmental protections and climate mitigation.

Leonardo DiCaprio continues to distinguish himself as one of the greenest stars out there. He started the Leonardo DiCaprio Foundation in 1998 with the mission of protecting the world’s last wild places, and has since then channeled millions of dollars in grants toward various direct action initiatives and awareness-raising campaigns all over the world. His 2007 documentary, The 11th Hour, features interviews with a variety of leaders and luminaries in documenting the grave environmental problems facing the planet’s life systems, while his 2016 film, Before The Flood, focuses on the environmental impacts of global warming on different locales around the world. Last December, DiCaprio met with then-President-Elect Trump to discuss the importance of the U.S. remaining committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and

honoring its commitments as part of 2015’s Paris climate agreement.

Another big star that’s gone green is Arnold Schwarzenegger. The Terminator earned his environmental cred during his six years as California’s governor when he shepherded legislation through a hostile state legislature establishing the most stringent emissions reduction mandates in the nation, and issued executive orders to up the energy efficiency requirements for existing and new state government buildings.

He also helped pave the way for the introduction of automobiles powered by emissions-free fuel cells by building the beginnings of a hydrogen refueling network across California.

Schwarzenegger has been outspoken about the need for state and local governments to take the lead in the battle against global warming—a message that never resonated more clearly than now with climate-denier Donald Trump in the White House.

Mark Ruffalo may have played The Hulk in Marvel Comics’ Avengers movies for good reason: He’s pretty green—and resource extractors don’t like him when he’s angry. The A-list actor is outspoken against t h e environmental and health ills of fracking, a technique that recovers

CM Corner w/Tocarra Eldridge

gas and oil from shale rock by drilling down into the Earth to direct a highpressure water mixture at the rock to release the gas inside. He founded the non-profit Water Defense in 2009, and later went on to join engineering professor Mark Jacobson, banker and solar executive Marco Krapels and filmmaker/activist Josh Fox to launch The Solutions Project, which aims to help move the U.S. to 100 percent renewable energy. He has also been active alongside the Standing Rock Sioux in fighting the Dakota Access Pipeline in North Dakota.

Some other movie stars for the environment include Edward Norton, Brad Pitt, Cate Blanchett, Daryl Hannah, Pierce Brosnan, Charlize Theron, Matt Dillon, Matt Damon, Julia Roberts, Will Ferrell, Tom Hanks and George Clooney. At least you can feel better about going to the movies now that you know the stars on the screen are using some of the money they are making at your expense to help the planet.

CONTACTS: Leonardo DiCaprio Foundation, www.leonardodicaprio.org; Water Defense, www.waterdefense.org; Solutions Project, www.thesolutionsproject.org.

Comedian and Actor, Lil Rel

When I had the opportunity to meet comedian and actor Lil Rel, he was extremely humble and down-to-earth. I have always admired individual who work hard and believe in their

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dreams, no matter what challengs or obstacles they encounter. It is great to see his progression and accomplishments over the

course of his amazing career.

HEALTH Solutions

Whitening Q&A with Celeb Cosmetic Dentist Dr. Kevin Sands Dr. Sands clients include royals, celebrities and influencers.

Below he shares the latest info on whitening up.

What makes bleaching/whitening challenging?

Crowns and implants do cause challenges. The only real option is veneers. If out of budget, bonding can be done but can be more prone to chipping and discoloration. People with white calcium stains are not candidates for whitening because the white stains become even whiter. Enamel hypoplasia- those with not very much enamel will not get the best results. The enamel is the part that actually whitens teeth. Tetracycline stains are also very common and difficult to treat. Sensitivity should not be an issue with today’s advances in whitening.

My office offers a special desensitizer gel that is applied before whitening to seal dental tubules and minimize sensitivity. Veneers are ideal because they don’t stain ever and can also correct a variety of other issues like crooked teeth and shape etc.

Do teeth change with age?

Teeth get yellower with age. Not only are they constantly being stained for that many more years- but more wear and tear with grinding and you lose more enamel over the years (the white part of the tooth). White strips, whitening toothpastes and whitening mouthwashes (even whitening floss!) are good options for those with minimal stains. Then opt for in-office treatments. Every 6 months is a good option and then you can supplement with at-home bleaching trays if you need more whitening coverage.

Do any foods enhance whitening effects?

Although there are many foods and drinks out there that can stain your teeth, there are also those foods that can help prevent discoloration. In fact, some common fruits and vegetables, work to clean your teeth as you eat them.

Another beneficial factor of maintaining a healthy diet is the added saliva they produce. Saliva helps clean our teeth of bacteria and neutralizes acids to clean your mouth. Some of these stain preventing fruits and vegetables include: Carrots, Celery, Apples and Cauliflower. Apples are high in acid which make it ideal for whitening. The skin of the apple is rich in natural fiber and helps scrub teeth- if a coffee drinker,

eating apples can help brighten teeth. Biting and chewing an apple stimulates the production of saliva in your mouth, reducing tooth decay by lowering levels of bacteria. Eating an apple creates an effect similar to a toothbrush because of the presence of fiber-rich flesh and skin. Eating apples regularly helps remove plaque and stains from the teeth.

Eating an apple also helps get rid of any food particle sticking to your gums and crevices of your teeth. In fact, apples and carrots are hailed as mini-toothbrushes because of the various cleansing effect they have on the teeth. And avoid strainers. While dark colas are an obvious stainer, light colored beverages like Mountain Dew and Sprite are also culprits. These drinks are acidic and chromogenrich causing significant staining. While red wine obviously stains, white wine features more acidity, again softening the tooth enamel and setting the stage for staining.

Any great lesser known whitening tips or tricks?

In office whitening is at its best with targeted treatments that whiten in minutes. At-home options have vastly improved though, notes Sands. There are now whitening mouthwashes that prime the teeth before brushing. When combined with a whitening toothpaste, its effect is maximized. And believe it or not, your lipstick can really impact the look of your teeth.

(1.) WINE ON! While most know that red wine stains teeth the wine shade of lipstick is actually the most flattering and helps teeth look brighter and whiter by reflecting off the wine shade to boost contrast. (2.) GET GLOSSY! Shiny, nude glosses reflect against graying enamel, creating an illusion that teeth are shinier than they are. (3.) RED HOT! Red looks right on. BUT the shade must be blue-based. The blue counteracts with yellow in the enamel, making teeth appear instantly whiter. Bright orange and yellow-toned reds seen in the pages of any J. Crew catalog but the coral and tomato shades have yellow-orange undertones, and work to play up the yellow in teeth.( 4.) AVOID pale pinks, frosts and mattes. These formulas accentuate stains and make teeth look dull.

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David & Tamela Mann Us Against The World Interviewed and written by Tocarra Eldridge

T

he dynamic dual that consists of husband and wife, David and Tamela Mann, recently released their first joint album together, “Us Against the World: The Love Project”. The album is very uplifting, spiritual and encouraging, and was inspired by their memoir, Us Against the World: Our Secrets to Love, Marriage, and Family (W Publishing/Harper Collins Christian). The Mann’s have inspired millions of audiences through their exceptional music, plays, movies, and television. Some of their films include “Meet the Browns”, “Mann & Wife”, and the family docu-series, “The Manns”, just to name a few. Together, the amazing couple head up their independent entertainment company Tillymann Music Group.

and Comedian along with his wife, Tamela Mann (singer, actress, songwriter, producer, and businesswoman), who is a Grammy Award-Winning and NAACP Image-Award Winning Actress.

I had the opportunity to speak with the ingeniously funny and extraordinary comedian and actor, David Mann, who is a Two-time NAACP Image Award-Winning Actor

TOCARRA: Thank you for taking the time out to interview with Consciousness Magazine. It is definitely an honor. Regarding your book, Us Against the World:

During our interview we chatted about the new album and memoir. They share valuable tips concerning building a strong and lasting relationship and marriage by encouraging others through the challenges that they overcame during their marriage. They also give insight on how they remain successful and keep their careers and family together. Celebrating a relationship that has lasted over 30 years, here is what the lovely and powerful couple had to share with the readers.

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Our Secrets to Love, Marriage, and Family, was this a project that you guys anticipated doing over the years or do you feel that it derived because it was destined?

DAVID: Well, it’s a little bit of both. We’ve been working on it for years, and finally Tamela said ‘look we can’t do anything else until we finish this book’ (laughs).

TOCARRA: You guys met as teenagers. Many people often have a hard time when it comes to determining what’s real love. When did you all realize you were in love?

DAVID: I don’t quite know when we realized it, for us I think it just grew from our friendship. It was one of those situations.

TAMELA: Well I was in love with him first, but he didn’t know and I couldn’t tell him.

DAVID: Why you couldn’t tell me?

TAMELA: Because I’m like old school – the guy has to tell you first. (laughs) DAVID: I know she told me ‘I love you’ first. (laughs) TAMELA: No I didn’t.

DAVID: Yes you did.

TAMELA: See that’s those 30 years you hearing. (laughs) But yeah, we were friends first and then it just happened.

DAVID: I don’t know the exact time it was, but it grew to the point that it was more to the love than just friendship.

TAMELA: Yeah, that’s a good way to put it.

TOCARRA: Being that cheating, adultery, unfaithful-

ness, etc. is being highlighted, promoted, glorified and displayed in our faces on a daily basis in almost every form of media today, what is the secret ingredient to not only becoming committed in a relationship, but remaining committed for the long haul?

TAMELA: I think we make our commitment to each other. So, it’s more so us making our commitment and wanting to be faithful to each other.

DAVID: Well, what continues to keep us together, one thing is you have to work at it, it takes a lot of work to keep that commitment with each other. When you have two people that are committed to putting in the work to make it work through the years – I think you give yourself a greater rate of success. You increase your odds for success when you’re willing to say ‘I’m committed to you and I’m going to do everything I can to make this work’.

TOCARRA: Just as any married couple, you’ve sustained and overcome many challenges. Many tend to follow the “C’s”…communication, compromising, commitment, etc.

What “C” or what staple do you feel is the most important in regards to keeping marriages together?

DAVID: I think, number one, you have to have a commitment, because if there is not commitment all of the rest falls apart. Compromising has to go along with the commitment, because it can’t be my way or the highway.

All of them work hand in hand.

TOCARRA: As a brand, do you feel pressure from the entertainment industry to act or portray a certain image to be marketable?

TAMELA: I wouldn’t say pressured. David has always been the mastermind and the brainiac for the Manns. I feel like you always have to recreate yourself.

DAVID: When we did the reality show, we decided we’re not going to be the normal reality show. We didn’t succumb to the pressures of ‘we want more drama’, or ‘we want you to talk like this or that’. We decided we were going to do it how we wanted to do it, and not succumb to the pressures of the industry. We did not conform just to receive more rates. Quite honestly, we said we don’t do drama. If ya’ll want drama go somewhere else.

Even creating this new album, we didn’t set out to do an R&B album, it was just love music that happened to be on an R&B format.

TOCARRA: Many have gotten away from what I feel is one of the most important staples, and that is family.

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Everyone seems to be too busy with work or careers and just don’t make the effort to spend time with family. You all promote the importance of love and family. With the busy lifestyles that you two have, what do you guys do to keep your family together and how do you balance family, ministry and acting?

TAMELA: For us, family comes first! Especially if we’ve been on the road, I feel like I have to cook at least one meal and have everybody here, because I feel like I’ve been gone from the grandbabies and I want all of us to be together as a unit. I also feel that I have to do something with the grandbabies to give them that one-on-one time because we’re gone so much. It’s just a must that we spend time with family. They’re just as important as work.

DAVID: Another thing I always tell people I don’t balance work and career with family, because if you balance something you give it the same time, same effort, same weight – you never want to do that with family, relationships or marriages. You want to give your family or marriage more time, so it (family) tips the scale. You never want to give it the equal amount of time. So that’s how we do not balance (laughs), we give more weight to this family.

part and then you’ll start to see some resentment.

TOCARRA: Would you like to add anything in closing?

DAVID: Just follow us @DavidandTamela. Our goal is to make sure we encourage and help as many couples and families as we can on this journey. The book is our 30 year journey to not be perfect, but to show people that you can make it too. We’re not the only ones out here that can make it.

TOCARRA: Thank you so much! It’s been a pleasure.

TAMELA: Thank you!

For more information and latest updates on David and Tamela Mann visit: Website: www.tillymannmusic.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/davidtamelamann Instagram: @DavidandTamela Twitter: @DavidandTamela

TOCARRA: We all know that laughter is good for the soul. Is that the reason you choose the roles that you play?

DAVID: Yes, I definitely want to play a role that I can be proud of at the end of the day and don’t have to be ashamed of, and also roles that my family and grandkids can watch and be proud of as well.

TOCARRA: To piggy back off of that, David you are one of the most hilarious actors, for those who may not have been aware of your reality show, do you feel that you are as comical in real life as you are on television?

DAVID: Probably more comical in real life! (laughs) I just enjoy seeing people have a good time.

TOCARRA: What is some advice that you would give to couples where one individual is not very considerate or supportive of their mate/spouses endeavors?

DAVID: You know, it really can’t work if you’re not supportive. With us, for example, whenever it’s her time to shine, I move out of that light. I want to make sure that she gets that spotlight. Vice versa, when it’s about me, she lets that happen. That’s the only way a relationship is going to work, if not, then it becomes a selfish act on one person’s Consciousness Magazine 17

Chaz Shepherd:

“Utilizing Gifts, Making a Difference in People’s Lives�

Interviewed and written by Aaron Robinson - Editor

For many years, Chaz Shepherd has become a part of the community improvements in which all of his entertainment gifts are eventually leading to. He is a man of faith who continues to embark upon his entertainment journey with purpose and reason.

Living life, raising and molding a daughter and helping others has been some clear initiatives indicating

he has been called upon as of lately, while serving a powerful God. Chaz shared his latest happenings with Consciousness Magazine. It was an honor to have spoken with him about his beliefs, artistry and much more.

Having an effective community voice is an important

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tool when it comes to the well-being and betterment of individuals. Chaz has used his voice to make a difference in society while being involved in various community platforms. With his gifts and wisdom, he continues to position himself in areas of life to reach God’s children, manifesting and sharing life, love and happiness in their lives. “I just speak what I’m trying to get across. I find that dealing with oneself is interesting, if I’m able to provide a concept or a positive perspective to iterate what’s right to motivate someone to be more effective with their lives. I’m more fascinated to talk about things that relate to people…. as i n d i v i d u a l s t o s t a y p o s i t i v e … s u b j e c t s t h a t a r e interesting,” says the young successful iconic figure who is devoted to giving back in life as well as leading by example.

As an actor, Chaz Shepherd has appeared in TV series such as The Game, The Parkers, 7th Heaven and movies such as The Temptations and Set It Off. For many who haven’t seen the talented actor acting lately may be due to the reason for him fully stepping out on his calling. “As far as community church I’m serving, I’m actually more active doing organization activities,” articulates the community leader who holds the humanitarian and activist roles dear to his heart. His inspiration is Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. when it comes to humanitarian efforts, embracing the basic principle of love. Chaz is also a part of the National Action-Network founded by Reverend Al Sharpton, which is one of the leading civil rights organizations in the Nation.

The advocate for Unity and Anti-violence shares words to empower our youth in terms of values in their life. “I heard in a sermon…be worthy of what you want. We don’t deserve anything that we won’t work for. We have to work for what we want. We have to be worthy of it. If we don’t spend our time being the best that we can be, we don’t deserve to become it.

That goes from entertainment to corporate. Even our less celebrated entrepreneurs put time in.” He continues to encourage, “I believe that someone who wants to be in your life helping, needs to have a positive contribution,” he explains optimistically.

When partaking in the church and with various organizations, Chaz speaks on his agenda as he and his peer’s come together to make a difference in other individual’s lives. “When we get together and sit down and talk about subjects and issues and ideas and share ideology…theology, I think that is really beautiful because it’s something that you can apply.

Celebration of one’s identity in regards to what they have done to change somebody’s life, I’m more excited about that.” Some of his other topics of interest include speaking on relationships and fatherhood as he persists to act as a role model to our youth.

Chaz is forever on a spiritual mission filled with purpose, meaning and vision, having a background consisting of spirituality. “My mother was my leader as far as introducing me [to a background consisting of spirituality.] As far as I could remember, it’s always been there. I’m not who I was when I started, not who I was just a few years ago,” explains Chaz who continues to walk his spiritual journey by having an ongoing relationship with God, forever putting Him first as the rest follows.

Sports Community

An Interview with Harlem Globetrotter

Herbert “Flight Time�Lang

Interviewed and writtern by Tocarra Eldridge Consciousness Magazine 20

S

tanding 6 feet, 3 inches tall, you will find Herbert “Flight Time” Lang playing the guard position for world’s most famous basketball team with a memorable whistle theme song, the Harlem Globetrotters.

Not only does he have athleticism and fundamental skills, but he also encompasses tricks and a great personality that entertains millions of fans.

Lang became a member of the Harlem Globetrotters after graduating from Centenary College, (La.) earning a degree in health science and physical education. As a student, he made the dean’s list twice, and was named the 1998 Male Student Athlete of the Year. Later, his talent and effort spoke for itself, earning him a title as a recognized and successful athlete.

You may have recently seen Lang appear as a guest on many popular television series. One of the most noted, the Emmy Award winning series, “The Amazing Race,” along with his famous teammate “Big Easy” Lofton. I had the privilege to speak to “Flight Time” about his amazing and exciting venture with the exhibition team that has been entertaining the world for more than 85 years, the Harlem Globetrotters.

Tocarra Eldridge: What or who influenced you to want to become a Harlem Globetrotter?

Flight Time: My biggest influence was my mom and my high school basketball coach, Herbert Williams. He was like a father figure. He prepared me for a lot of things.

He talked to me about carrying myself a certain way and helped me out mentally and helped mold me into the person I am today.

Tocarra: How do you guys select your opponents?

Flight Time: Actually, initially we’d go around playing whoever would challenge us. In the 50s we traveled to

different parts of the world taking on challengers.

However, our opponents for the past few years have been the Washington Generals. We just generally beat up on them in our games and make the fans happy (laughs).

Tocarra: With the skills you have, is this something that you were born with or something that takes years and years of practice?

Flight Time: Well, growing up I played a lot of different sports. I got lucky and got a basketball scholarship. A lot of things that we do are art of the realm. The Globetrotters look for the best basketball players that we can find.

Being a Globetrotter, you have to master your craft and practic. I’m still working on my craft!

Tocarra: What advice would you give to those who want to become a Harlem Globetrotter?

Flight Time: Um! My advice to those who want to become a Harlem Globetrotter…well, a lot of people want to challenge you when they find out you’re a Harlem Globetrotter. But I feel like I don’t have to prove anything to people at all. So my advice would be…don’t be focused on being a Globetrotter; find something else that you are focused on. And thru hard work you will be able to reach those goals. Don’t fully focus on basketball. See, I’m educated. I got a degree in Health Education, so if something happens to me I got that to fall back on.

Whatever opportunity you get, make the best of it, because opportunities only come once in a lifetime.

Tocarra: Do you have anything else that you would like to say before we close?

Flight Time: Yes! I’m sure we will be coming to a city near you and hopefully you all will have time to come out and see us in person and see what the Harlem Globetrotters are all about! -

Consciousness Magazine 21

Lamman Rucker Interview Cont. from page 10 trying to get through school? What about these teachers who may be in their forties and fifties, or even younger than that. And think about what else they’ve seen, even prior to when any of these events happened. Then there are a couple of these events that actually occur during the movie. [The film] definitely gives you a different degree of appreciation….just kind of an awareness of what it was like to say, “Look, I might not be out there on the front line of the movement marching, instead, I’m going to fight the battle here in the hospital, I’m going to fight the battle by taking my love for what I do and the fact that I’m even serving a community that’s underserved.” That’s what MeHarry’s about, the highest standard.

Aaron: You worked with some amazing actors in the film.

What was it like working with such a talented cast?

Lamman: We had a great time! It was really refreshing to see how sharp many of the young actors were. It made me remember what it was like when I was their age and first started out. It was really cool and encouraging seeing these sharp young actors that I thought were really perfect for this film. Everybody got along and worked together well.

We really had some magical moments happen. They were a lot of fun to hang out with, work with and kick-it with.

It was encouraging to watch them work – to watch them shine. I thought they did a great job.

Aaron: Last time we spoke, you were involved with several community initiatives. Are there any community efforts or initiatives that you are partaking in at the time?

Lamman: Yes. All the ones that existed then, I still probably have my hands in those. (Laugh) As well as, now I’m also more involved with a couple others. I’ve been doing a lot of work with the Black AIDS Institute, as well as other agencies around the country all focused on the eradication of the AIDS epidemic, and testing and education initiatives.

I’m ambassador for the national campaign for The Association of Black Cardiologists. We do a Spirit of the Heart tour. There is a national campaign to reduce the impact

of heart disease and other related diseases. I’ve been doing that for three years now. I’m still very active with the organization that I founded called The Black Gents. We’re still very involved with literacy, arts education, technology and other community mobilization. But, we primarily focus on entertainment, education and empowerment through the arts. We do a lot of work with young people and other community partners. There’s another called the BMe Community, which is a national collection of men who are in positions of service or who own and run their own non profits and foundations or do other community based work connected to uplifting communities. Overall, those are some of the primary entities that I’m probably the most involved with.

Aaron: Would you like to add anything in closing?

Lamman: I definitely would love to give a shout out if I may to Mama Peggy Cooper Cafritz, who is the co-founder of my high school’s development of the School of the Arts.

A lot of what you all know of me is very much a result of that woman’s vision along with her partner Mike Malone who was also one of my dedicated teachers and creative God Father throughout my high school years. Together, they co-founded the Duke Ellington School of the Arts in Washington, D.C. where I was trained and raised. So much of what I do now was really cultivated and nurtured there. I’m fortunate that it didn’t have to be created there.

I owe that to my parents and to other wonderful teachers, members of my family, the community and so forth – to be exposed to the arts, literature and access to so much culture and understanding what it really means to be here.

I’ve had access to that information at a very young age. If not for that place, I can’t even imagine how much different I would be and how much different my life would be. So, I want to just give a special acknowledgment to her [Peggy Cooper Cafritz] and to her life and legacy and the sacrifices that she made literally up until her dying day for the survival and commitment to that institution and for all of the young people in it. She has a really beautiful book out that was published called “Fired Up! Ready to Go!”.

I highly recommend and encourage people to support the book and all the other schools, institutions and organizations that help to keep the arts and creative spirit alive.

Visit Lamman Rucker Social Networks: Website: www.lammanrucker.com Twitter: www.twitter.com/LammanRucker Facebook: www.facebook.com/lammanrucker Instagram: www.instagram.com/lammanruckerofficial

Consciousness Magazine 22

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Review

Product: The Levo G2 Deluxe Tablet Stand

The Levo G2 Deluxe Tablet Stand offers everyone superior neck and back comfort while using their device, but it is especially amazing for anyone with chronic neck or back pain, arthritis, neuromuscular diseases or anything that affects comfort and mobility while sitting/working for any length of time.

This portable, rolling stand “floats” your tablet at the perfect position and eye level for you. It can

be swiveled and tilted in any position, used in landscape or portrait (whatever is best for viewing particular items), and lets you work or play comfortably in any position, sitting, reclining or even lying in bed. Not having to hold the device makes a huge difference! It has a heavy base that prevents tipping and potential damage to your valuable device, and the caster wheels make it easy to move from room to room or store away when not in use. It is compatible with a wide variety of tablets and e-readers.

Parental Advisory: Views and opinions expressed in album, book, product or movie reviews within this publication reflect the opinion of their respective author and do not necessarily represent those of the publisher and editors.

Know Your Rights!

The Community Reinvestment Act requires federal agencies to encourage depository financial institutions to help meet the credit needs of their communities, including low- and moderate- income neighborhoods.

The regulatory agencies assess the institutions’ records of meeting those credit needs by preparing a written evaluation of the institutions and assigning a rating with

Community Reinvestment Act facts supporting the conclusions. Such ratings shall be disclosed to the public for examinations beginning July 1, 1990. The Act also requires regulatory agencies to consider an institution’s record of helping to meet community credit needs when evaluating certain corporate applications, such as permission to establish a branch, to relocate a branch or home office, or to merge.

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