16ISSUE
WWW.TRUENTMAGAZINE.COM
54
36 30
Tru Catches up with DJ/Producer
Def K
K
halil Siyam aka Def K Passion is the hot new DJ/Producer that caught the eye of Rap and Hip Hop legend, LL Cool J’s eyes last year when he won the Sony Vaio Future Sounds Contest with LL Cool J’s company Boomdizzle Networks. In the contest, Def K won for best song out of 2,500 entries and he finished with an impressive 200,000 votes as stated by LL Cool J in a video released by Sony featuring Def K’s story. In the early 1980’s Def caught an appearance by Run-DMC and Jam-Master Jay on Dick Clark’s American Bandstand and it was then that he knew hip-hop music was his destiny. His perseverance eventually led to the release of his debut LP, “Sacred Ceremonial Ground,” featuring monster tracks “Perfection,” “1984,” and “Just Wanna Rap”and in 2011 he released his sophomore album, “13 Is the Number” available on iTunes and sponsored by Sony Electronics and Dolby Laboratories. In 2013, Def K plans to release his 3rd Solo Album and submit music to films, TV shows and video games as well. We wish him well and have the feeling he’ll need no luck at all with getting it done. He’s a man on a mission.
BMA Networks Programming BMA Networks programming spotlights entertainment, music, artist, products and lifestyles. Our services are designed to communicate and connect communities through our music and video services. BMA Music Channel host top entertainment programs that include The Touch Adult Urban music show, Focus on Women, Black Health Now, Inspirations America, CafĂŠ Mocha along with current and classic music videos and BMA Spotlights original produced features that focuses on personal lifestyles, music, culture, entertainment, business and community issues. BMA Networks is the producer of Minnesota Black Music Awards. MBMA is an annual music and artist recognition show. The event is considered the upper-Midwest premiere stage for Black music recognition, industry education and super-star performances. For program schedule visit www.mnblackmusicawards.com Phone: 612-341-2447 Email: blackmusicamerica@gmail.com Web: www.blackmusicamerica.com Black Music America Networks 90 S. 11th Street Suite 276 Minneapolis, MN 55403
Old Soulz bring their hot new sound to the world of music
O
n a sunny Sunday afternoon in a small town on the outskirts of Los Angeles, Families and friends alike gather for a games, food, and entertainment to celebrate unity among their communities and a hope to continue bettering their neighborhoods, schools, and relations within their towns. Today they have a special guest speaker present, A man notorious for his past endeavors within the international drug trade and law enforcement, known as (the real) ‘Freeway’ Ricky Ross. Freeway Rick was freed in and has since become a driven advocate for the cause of rebuilding our broken communities here in Los Angeles. With multiple charitable foundations including Freeway Literacy (A non-profit with the mission of educating our inner city ‘s youth).H e has taken his steps to actively reverse the damage done to his communities. But that‘s not all Mr. Ross has going for him; he has recently dipped his feet into the West Coast Hip Hop game, with his new syndicate F.M.G (freeway music group), and he brought his new artists Old Soulz along with him to give the people of Los Angeles a taste of a new kind of Hip-Hop. One free of the glamour and club-hop which dominates today ‘s airwaves, and with a message which resonates through the generations. Blending the storytelling elements of pure, raw H ip-Hop with the unparalleled production of some of the west coasts hottest producers, the Calibased duo,“Old Soulz“bringsa new style of rap to the L os Angeles Hip-Hop scene . Hailing from the San Francisco East Bay area, Old Soulz members ‘ Stricc ‘and ‘Rx‘made their stamp around the local Hip -H op circuit performing at nightclubs and events from San Jose to San Francisco, ow let’s get one thing straight, they aren‘t your evN ery day rap artists. They don’t care much to make
Be sure to follow Old Soulz on Twitter @ Old_Soulz On YouTube @oldsoulzmuzic on instagram @oldsoulzrx @striccsoul @oldsoulz and check for their newest releases on freewaymixtapes. com . They’ve also got a new album ‘Guaranteed’ dropping this holiday season...they’re hot, they’re everywhere and they’re not leaving anytime soon!
you dance, they rarely place emphasis on materialism and their not worried whether you like them or not. They simply make music on their terms, their way. ey both came from musical family’s and at a young age both MC’s began their musical journey through rock, Th bluesand mastering their songwriting craft by learning guitar and keyboard. Th eir story, like many of the unfortunate youth who start out in the music game evolved from a life of drug use, crime and poverty and everything else that goes along with being a troubled teen in today’s America. In fact in late 2009the team even found themselves incarcerated and facing a bleek future. But, 2010 marked a turning point in their lives and the opportunity to sit down with Ross to discuss possibilities opened the door for Ross to offer his help as m entor and guide them along their way, so they made the move from the Bay area to their current home in Long Beach to continue their growth and pursue their business relationship with Rossand as they say... the rest is history! In 2012 the Soulz Released their first Mixtape “Speaking of Legendz Vol.1“which,was (of course) hosted by Freeway Rick and included singles ;‘Foreign’ and ‘Red Lights’ ft. Wrekonize of MayDay & CO$$ . It also featured appearances from Bay area legends;Ray Luv, San Quinn, and Matt Blaque, as well as a list of other top artists in the California Hip Hop underground. After the success of “Speaking ofLegendz “, Ross and the Soulz came to an agreement and Ross was appointed Manager of the group inlate February 2013. Fresh off their first release Old Soulz connected with California legend Crooked I of Slaughterhouse and fellow F.M.G artist C. Carter and released a video for ‘Its Real’ (the first single off of their new album) in June of 2013 generating buzz all over the Los Angeles and Long Beach area s. They followed up with singles “ Switchin
Lanes“ft. Iceman of COB and ‘Pain Management’ in early September ,gearing up for the release of their highly anticipated debut album “Guaranteed“. With appearances from Crooked I, Ras Kass, San Quinn, The Rezza Bros, HorseShoe Gang, Boom 2g and backed up by Aktive productions, we’re certain that the “buzz” around the group will continue. They have a new clothing line in the works, a collaboration withDetroit Mc Boom 2g , the new Album, and a few other tricks up their sleeves determined to earn their spot among the West Coast H ip -Hop elite in the years to come. Let’s check in with these guys...
The Interview
TRU: You have a lot of competition in the rap game, especially on the West Coast. What makes Old Soulz “different” from the rest? A: You know, as artists that was the first thing we asked ourselves when we decided to pursue this industry. We made a decision early on to break the stereotype of what a hip hop artist is supposed to be, we decided we would focus on the TRU hip hop fans, the kids that spend their days behind their headphones, blocking
out the rest of the world and dreaming of their future. We don’t look to inspire anyone but those who have a Tru desire to follow their dreams, because those are the people that will mold our future- and if we can spark one great mind, we feel we can change the world for the better.
per middle class familyand lived my young years in the SanFrancisco ,East Bay area. I had allof the opportunity anyone could ask for; abig house, big family, big expectations... but I didn’t meet those expectations. At 12 yrs.old my father came out to me as a TRU: You both have a very interesthomosexual, my family split, the ing background. Give our readers a money went away, and as a young “glimpse” into your life before music. boy I said “F**k YOUR EXPECHow did crime and drugs play a role in TATIONS “-and that’s where it who you are today? all began.Before I reachedage 13 I had been expelled from multi Stricc: Th e best way I could describe ple schools for selling anything my life before music is a bad episode of “ from cocaine to cannabisand by Modern F amily”. I was born intoan up- 16 I had moved up to anything
known to man. A round age 17 we started getting desperate for our drugs and money and began our fun by doing armed robbery and home invasions. I n a nutshell that led to incarcerations, drug rehab programs, and a whole lot of problems. I made a choice in 2010 to clean up and focus on the only positive thing I had going in my life...which was music, and that’s where the REAL story of Old Soulz Begins. Rx: Growing up I was a very defiant
kid I was the black sheep of my family. At the age of the tenI was introduced to weed and began drinking as welland that’s really where all the real trouble began. My drug use progressed to cocaine byage 11 and b y12I start affiliating with some real bad people and began doing meth. My parents caught on to my use really fast andafter catching my first case for robbery I was sent to Oregon to complete a wilderness program, and then to Utah to a lockdown facility for 18 months. Getting back into my
Mac Dre) who saw the drive and talent in my music and took me under his wing.Next thing we know were sitting in Ricks living room in Carson getting advice from one of the most well spoken intelligent individuals we had ever met. His demeanor, kindness and respect for us blew us away and from that moment on we made it our goal to one day be represented by an honorable man such as Rick Ross . We worked our asses to the bone over the next few years to earn his attention and eventually his respect-by 2013 he offered us management deal. TRU: We hear stories all the time and
normal life of not being locked up was difficult, and found myself once again behind bars after shattering some kids nose who was tryna punk me. When I was 17 my mother committed suicideandthey finally let me out due to that. After that I became severely depressed and began doing a lot of narcoticsto ease the pain. I found myself quickly back in the system once again after a possession charge. I did 3 months in jail and3 months in rehab in liuof California youth authority and quickly opened my eyes andbegan to get my
we see on the news that plenty of ‘made’ rappers in the game STILL con-
People need to count their blessing tinue to indulge in drugs, crime and all the rest. What are your thoughts on that, I mean why do
act together. When I got out I moved to long beach right away and began to see brighter future with hip-hop. TRU: What prompted you to sign up with Freeway Rick Ross? S tricc & Rx: In early 2010 we performed live in San Francisco and attracted the attention of a good friend, and someone we will always owe for our success, BK of Thizz Latin (an offshoot of the bay area based Thizz Nation - founded by the legendary
you think that still is? Stricc: I feel the reason today’s successful artists still dabble in the life they‘ve tried so hard to escape through their musical success stems purely from their life experiences and how they respond to them. I do not believe in the half ass excuse that anybody is a so called “product of their environment”-that’s an easy way out.
Dana
a Baker D
PLUS SIZE MODEL MAKING IT WAY IN 2013
ana Baker is an aspiring ‘Plus Size’ Model from a small town in Franklin , Kentucky . She is married to Rapper, KY BOY, who is the opening act for legendary Hip Hop group, Nappy Roots. Dana has traveled the world with her husband but feels like it’s time to start living out her own dreams ! The duo have three children who are her biggest inspiration and she believes that she’ll accomplish her goals & dreams by having determination, working hard, and utilizing that big bubbly personality of hers to the fullest! By age nine Dana was modeling in her first runway show at one of the local churches . Her grandmother signed her up for the fashion show knowing that Dana loved playing dress up and getting in to her grandmother’s huge closet , which was always filled with big hats, nice purses, fur coats, and designer shoes. That’s when she fell in love with the world of modeling. By thirteen Dana started doing local runway shows for “Fashion Bug “ and “Lane Bryant “. Let’s get into it with, Dana Baker, a Model on a Mission!
THE INTERVIEW
TM: Is it more difficult in your opinion for a Plus Size Model to be successful in the world of modeling? Answer: The modeling industry in itself is very competitive so yes it’s very difficult to be a successful plus model in this world. Plus when you have a long range of sizes (10+) that are considered to represent a plus/curvy body type then it makes it much harder for the bigger sizes (18+) to land jobs & opportunities. It seems as though most companies/brands still want plus models to come across as thinner. So that means that you need to still appear fit. But if you work out & tone up then you’ll most likely have a better chance of being noticed and landing a gig/job. TM: What do you think some of the challenges are? Answer: There are many different challenges that models have to deal with. For example: height requirements. Models are still being told that they are to petite. But I feel like your height nor weight shouldn’t define a person ‘s capabilityty of walking a runway or posing for the camera. My
personal challenge is probably raising money & finding sponsors in order to go on casting calls/auditions. The first thing that I am always told is that the company loves my look & would like to set up a meeting with me. So it’s always a challenge to get up the money to invest in myself so that I can travel to the casting calls to even be considered for a job, being that most of the opportunities aren’t in the area that I reside in. TM: Have you ever met or worked with any of the celebrity models? Would you like to & if so who?
Answer: Unfortunately, I haven’t yet had the opportunity to work with any celebrity models. However, I do know and have many celebrity models on speed dial that I will eagerly hit up or instant message on Facebook for advice. (lol) That is one of the ma in reasons why I am so passionate about this industry. I love the sisterhood, which is basically a community in which everyonedoes a tremendous job of being positive & supportive towards one another. I look up to Ashley Graham, Tyra Banks & Tricia Campbell. So therefore, it would be an honor to work with any of those amazing models. But my ultimate goal is to work with the great & lovely Ms. Gwen Devoe because I’ve always dreamed of walking in FFF ( Full Figured Fashion) Week in NEW YORK CITY. TM: Now that you and your career are your priority, what are some of your goals for 2014? Answer: Since I’m considered to be a freelance plus model, my main goal is to be signed by a major modeling agency in 2014 and getting regular bookings. I like setting shortterm goals, accomplishing them, then moving on to newer short term goals. I am so determined that I have already claimed it. Sounds good to us! To keep up with Dana and find out all about what projects she’s working on check her out on model mayhem at http://www.modelmayhem.com/DanaBaker You can also find her on Facebook at www.facebook.com/plusmodel.baker
TRU INVESTIGATION
THE
RINCKEY REPORT
ELECTED OFFICIALS SEEMINGLY UNINTERESTED IN DR. ROBERT ALEXANDER’S ABORTION VIOLATIONS by Gena Rinckey
My goodness. After my first article was published in Tru. last month regarding Michigan abortionist Dr. Robert Alexander, it appears that neither Michigan’s state government nor the local media in western Michigan has expressed any interest at all in addressing or even continuing to follow the issue of the termination of Dr. Alexander’s medical license. However, since the media is only really interested in hot topics and it appears that this issue has gone stale with them, I am most happy to follow up for them. I’m not in this for any ratings, anyway. I e-mailed my article to the following list of elected officials within Michigan’s state government. And none of them - not even one - responded to my article. So, I would like to officially welcome them all to the Dr. Alexander Wall of Shame: Michigan Senate Judiciary Committee Rick Jones, Committee Chair – 24th District Tonya Schuitmaker, Vice Chair – 20th District Tory Rocca – 10th District Steven Bieda, Minority Committee Chair The Senate Judiciary Committee seemed shocked during its April 30, 2013 hearing regarding Target 8’s investigation of Dr. Alexan– 9th District der. Committee Chair Sen. Rick Jones even said on the record: “Wow. Unbelievable. Unbelievable. Please convey to that board and chairman that that inaction, that shocking lack of caring, is going Michigan Attorney General Bill Schuette to lead to legislation.” Michigan Governor Rick Snyder
But nobody has lifted a finger to ensure that Dr. Alexander is immediately stopped from his evil doings. Not one elected official. It’s like the case has just been a blip on their radar. I have no reason to believe they have given this issue another thought. The Michigan government is now in summer recess. How nice. Michigan’s elected officials are in their districts relaxing a bit, perhaps planning an Independence Day barbecue, all while Dr.
WHERE IS DISGRACED MICHIGAN ABORTIONIST DR. ROBERT ALEXANDER?
Where is disgraced Michigan Abortionist Dr. Robert Alexander? That is certainly a good question! I certainly would like to know Dr. Alexander’s whereabouts. It seems that since my original article that detailed the case against the disgraced Doc was published, nobody seems to know where Dr. Alexander is these days. My follow-up article welcoming the entire Michigan Senate Judiciary Committee to my “Wall of Shame” finally got a little bit of attention, although I had to work at getting it. It was worth it since no one on the committee responded to my first article. I was perusing Facebook on and discovered that I was Facebook friends with the Michigan Senate Judiciary Committee Chair, Rick Jones. I have no idea when I became friends with Sen. Jones, but I sent him a link to my “Wall of Shame” article via Facebook as I never received any response from his office about my first article. Although he claims I didn’t “get under his skin,” I really don’t believe it since he immediately responded. See my exchange with Sen. Jones below:
I did not appreciate the way Senator Jones handled himself on Facebook. Senator Jones even emailed me that the committee “grilled LARA on why this guy had a license.” Like I didn’t know that? Senator Jones obviously did not read my first article, which was hyper linked to the June 27 follow-up where I linked to the April 30, 2013 hearing of the Senate Judiciary Committee. Yes Senator, I know the judiciary committee grilled LARA because I watched the Target 8 clip of the hearing where LARA was grilled numerous times. Rick Jones Sen. Rick Jones, Chairman of the MI Senate Judiciary Committee
Sen. Rick Jones, Chairman of the MI Senate Judiciary Committee
I have a philosophy when it comes to elected officials. I view elected officials as employees of mine. I pay taxes that pay their salaries, so if I have a question or an issue, I expect it to be addressed within a reasonable time by elected officials who are accountable to me .
If an elected official does not care to even respond to an email (you can see my email to Sen. Jones here), they have a couple of options. They can either come out of the tall grass and answer my questions, or they can run for it. I am a taxpayer. My state tax dollars help pay all of the salaries of the elected officials, so they should be polite to me at all times, and I do not handle being “brushed off ” by my employees very well . What’s even more interesting is that after Senator Jones brushed me off and said on Facebook, “I need to get back to work…” I got a call from Jason from his office that very afternoon. Jason informed me via voice mail, “The media has been there [the Herman Kiefer Health Clinic in Detroit] and they said that he is not working there anymore. So one of the issues right now is that nobody seems to know where this guy is at.” Gee, how reassuring. Why did the State of Michigan fail to look into his status? Dr. Alexander still has a full medical license, so where is he? This guy needs to be watched because he is, by most accounts, one bad dude. Tonya Schuitmaker Sen. Tonya Schuitmaker, Vice Chair of the MI Senate Judiciary Committee Jason directed me to the office of Senator Tonya Schuitmaker, the Vice Chair of the Michigan Senate Judiciary Committee. He said she is heading up the legislative package regarding the Board of Medicine, which falls under the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs. This is when the experience with my elected employees made a turn for the better.
Sen. Tonya Schuitmaker, Vice Chair of the MI Senate Judiciary Committee
I am very impressed thus far with how Senator Schuitmaker and Derek Sova are handling the issue of Dr. Alexander. Michigan taxpayers deserve to have peace of mind knowing that Michigan’s doctors are of good character, and that they run clean and safe practices for patients. A better system of checks and balances is needed. As for any Senator who does not address the malpractice of state-funded Michigan doctos, rest assured they will be called out of the tall grass, and I will create a new Wall of Shame just for them. I will continue to follow up on the status of Dr. Alexander’s license. It is my hope that his license is the first to be terminated. If there is any sort of public hearing that I can attend regarding Dr. Alexander, I will do so if possible. Stay tuned! Originally story published by watchdogwire.com
P
Y E L I A B ETER
ByStacyM.Brown
P
eter Bailey has shared many nightcaps with everyone in Hollywood, whether it’s talking sex appeal with Janelle Monet, legal issues with 2Chainz, or sharing a laugh with Mike Epps. Bailey’s “NiteCap,” program on NBC has attracted the who’s who in the world of rap, comedy, acting, and even politics. He’s the author of, “Magic City: Trials of a Native Son,” a book that was praised by the New York Times as a pop music gem. “I’m the son of a minister, so you know that saying about idle time being the Devil’s playground,” Bailey told Tru. “I try to stay working, stay busy.” Bailey was born in St. Thomas, the U.S. Virgin Islands, in 1980. He graduated the University of Delaware with an English degree that focused on journalism. He’s written for the Village Voice, Newsweek and Time Magazine. Mostly, though, Bailey has charted a course that has led him to Miami, Fla., where he is as much an advocate for African Americans and the underserved, as he is a journalist, author and celebrity television host. “I never liked the way we as black people were being por-
www.iampeterbailey.com trayed. We were more caricature than anything else,” Bailey said. “I’d see stories, serious stories, being reported and the reporter would ask a black person about their jewelry. It was too much.” Bailey said he wanted to show the intellectual side of blacks. He also said his successful book almost didn’t make it to publication. “Thirty publishers turned it down, rejected it,” he said. “They said it wasn’t enough baby mama drama or shooting in it.” Over the years, Bailey wrote mostly about Miami’s inner city, because he said he wanted to pen the definitive story of black Miami and he thought that the voices to do such work had been rendered non-existent. “So when (co-author) Trick Daddy got wind of my work and asked me to pen his story, it was a dream come true because no one represents the soul of Miami’s other side and no one loves, breathes and believes in the community more than Trick,” Bailey said. “The Trick Daddy that pops up in news reports is unfamiliar to me. I’ve seen Trick put money on the books of friends of his that’s been incarcerated since 1985, serving life sentences. Trick’s hard exterior is rivaled by his love for kids. It’s not a gimmick. He really has an affinity to kids. I think it’s because he feels his was robbed due to poverty and incarceration.” Trick is living proof of the misrepresentations of African Americans, including the misguided ways some blacks even look at themselves, Bailey said. “Look at the BET Awards. No one takes them serious. They take the Grammy’s seriously, though,” he said. “The problem with some blacks is that if white folks don’t put their stamp on it, we’re not happy and that’s sad.” Bailey said his, “NiteCap,” show raises the intellectual bar. “If it doesn’t work, I’m throwing in the towel,” he said. “If my people don’t want intellect, than it’s a wrap.” Bailey speaks from lots of experience, despite being just 33 years-old. He has covered issues ranging from the AIDS epidemic to “Whiteness Studies.” He’s chatted with Bill Clinton, Michael Bloomberg, Russell Simmons and many others. The National Association of Black Journalists honored Bailey for a project called, “Shackled Education,” where he put together a series of stories for the Miami Herald that included, “Class Behind Bars,” Juvenile Justice,” and “Tackling Textbooks.” Bailey wrote that, the Juvenile Detention Center provides an accredited school where incarcerated youths attend classes while they await trial and sentencing; their crimes range from petty theft to murder. They usually stay about 15 days, sometimes much longer, and receive the same curriculum as Miami-Dade public school students in grades six through 12. But here, kids charged with serious crimes sit alongside those charged with misdemeanors. Bailey noted in another part of the series that, courtrooms in the Juvenile Detention Center are packed with more and more cases of kids arrested for minor offenses, as school officials strictly enforce a zero-tolerance policy in an effort to deter violent crimes on campus. “Years ago, before the safety fears stoked by the 1999 Columbine massacre in Colorado, such mischief in schools would usually end in a trip to the principal’s office for disciplinary action. Today, it often ends in a trip to the Juvenile Detention Center -- a life-altering event that stains some with a criminal record,” he said. One of Bailey’s missions is to help black youths understand that they can have a future much like his. They also can create their own legacy. “I stepped out on my own and decided to create something our people can really feel, which is NiteCap,” he said. “Look, until we own this business, we can’t be the architect of our own story, and we cannot write the script. It’s important for us to know that. If I’m living in another man’s house, he’s not going to give me the keys. We have to stop looking for other people’s validation. I have Jewish friends who don’t seek validation. We shouldn’t either.”
IN THE KITCHEN WITH SHARON FOXX
FINGER FOOD BY SHARON MEAT PIES
For the Filling: 2 Tbsp Butter 1/2 lb Ground Beef 1/2 lb Ground Pork 1/2 Cup Spanish Onion, finely diced 1/2 Cup Red Bell Pepper, finely diced 1/4 Cup Celery, finely diced 1/2 Cup Green Onions 3 Garlic Cloves, minced 2 Tbsp Homemade Worcestershire Sauce 1 Tbsp Crystal Hot Sauce Kosher salt, black pepper, and Cayenne to taste. 1/2 Cup Beef Stock 1/8 Cup All Purpose Flour Melt the butter in a large cast iron skillet over medium high heat, when hot add the ground meats, cook until browned and cooked through. Add the onions, celery, bell pepper, and green onions, cook until the vegetables are wilted. Add the garlic, Worcestershire, hot sauce, and seasonings, cook for 2 minutes more. Make a slurry of the stock and flour, add to the pot and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and cook for about 5 minutes stirring constantly. Remove from the heat and adjust the seasonings if necessary. Set aside to cool to room temperature. For the dough: 4 Cups All Purpose Flour 2 tsp Iodized Salt 1 tsp Baking Powder 1/2 Cup Lard 1 Egg 1 Cup Milk Combine the dry ingredients in the mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, with the speed on low add the lard to the dry ingredients and let the mixer cut it in until the fat is broken up into pea sized pieces. Beat the egg and combine with the milk. Add the wet to the dry with the mixer on low, in a slow steady stream. Mix until the dough just comes together. The key is to not overwork the dough. Cut the dough in half then roll it out to 1/8 inch thickness on a floured counter. Cut into either the more traditional 5 inch circles or as I did about 3 circles, I used an empty French Market Coffee can. To assemble and cook: Place 1 heaping Tablespoon (doubled for the larger size) of the cooled mixture to each circle. With your finger wet the edge with a little water, fold over and crimp with a fork. Set aside on a floured surface until ready to fry. Heat 4 inches of oil in a dutch oven to 360 degrees. Fry the meat pies in small batches until golden brown on each side.
JALAPENO SAUSAGE POPPERS 10 jalapeno peppers 10 bacon slices, cut in half 10 mini sausages or smokies (or 20 if they are very small) 1 cup cream cheese 1 cup grated Monterey Jack 1 tsp. chipotle powder 2 shallots, minced 1.Slice the jalapenos lengthwise. Using a spoon, remove the seeds and membrane. If using bell peppers, quarter them after they are seeded. 2.Mix the cream cheese, Monterey jack, chipotle powder and minced shallots. Fill the hollowed out portion of the peppers with the cheese mixture. 3.Place the smokie on top of the cream cheese. Wrap the half slice of bacon around the jalapeno. If the bacon is not staying tightly wrapped, it may be necessary to use a toothpick to hold it in place. 4.Smoke them in the smoker, set at 225F, for 2-3 hours, or until the bacon is browned. TO COOK ON GRILL: Cook on a medium heat grill until the jalapeno is tender and the bacon is browned. Keep the lid covered while cooking. To COOK IN THE OVEN: Bake them in the oven, set at 425F, for 20-30 minutes or until the bacon is browned.
Dinner cocktails or with a salumi platter (salami, prosciutto, pancetta 2c flour 1 c confectioners’ sugar 2 tsp finely chopped fresh rosemary leaves 1/2 tsp salt 1/2 c finely grated Parmesan cheese 1 c (2 sticks) unsalted butter room temp 1 tsp water (if needed) Put flour, sugar, rosemary, salt and parmesan into the bowl of food processor. Pulse until completely combined. Add butter and pulse until soft dough forms. The dough should hold together when squeezed with your hands. If it doesn’t, add a little water at a time until the dough comes together. Spread out a large sheet of plastic wrap onto your work surface and transfer dough onto it. Using plastic wrap, roll it into a log shaped roll. Twist ends of plastic to make it into a compact and tight log about 2 1/2” in diameter. Chill until firm - at least an hour or more. Preheat oven to 375º. Line 2 cookie sheets with parchment paper. Slice dough into 1/3” slices and arrange on your lined cookie sheets, about 1” apart ( I sliced mine then used a scallop cookie cutter to make edges pretty) . Bake until edges are just starting to brown -12-14 minutes. Cool 5 minutes then transfer to rack to cool completely. Store in airtight container or spread on a tray to serve.
Ernest Thomas,from T.V. to Most of you know Ernest for his big smile that lights up a room, his infectious laugh and his iconic roles as Raj from “What’s Happening” and “What’s Happening Now,” Mr. Omar in “Everybody Hates Chris,” and his role in “Malcolm X”, but Ernest is so much more than just a comedic actor. The President and CEO of Bravokid Entertainment, has more than 30 years of achievement in theatre, television and film. He’s a
graduate of the prestigious American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York City. Along side Ernie previous graduates include, Robert Redford, Danny DeVito, Kim
Cattrall, the late Spencer Tracey, Cecil B. DeMille and an impressive list too numerous to mention. Ernest also has a Bachelor of Science Degree from Indiana State University in Sociology and Psychology . From Co-star ring in hit TV series “Everybody Hates Chris as “Mr. Omar” to winning Best Actor Award for his starring role as “Raj” in the popular ABC television series ”What’s Happening” in 1979 Thomas was also nominated for a NAACP Image Award Best Actor in a Comedy Series for the role of “Raj” in the revised version of his hit television series “What’s Happening Now” in 1987 . He received the MPAC (Muslim Public Affairs Counsel) award for the role of “Sidney X” in Spike Lee’s critically acclaimed epic “Malcolm X” in 1992. , and legendary actor, Sidney Poitier chose him to star in the hit urban comedy “Piece of the Action” with Bill Cosby and James Earl Jones . Not to mention the fact that a role was written especially for him for the award winning series “ROOTS”. Ernest has received numerous honors from congressmen, mayors, and clergymen for his outstanding work with various charities and for his ability to bring diverse groups together as he did in Washington, D.C. by holding the first joint press conference against apartheid between Muslim Imams and Catholic Priests. He writes screenplays, has sold a script to Sony Pictures and has written a book in collaboration with his mother entitled “Conversations With My Mother: Food for the Mind, Body and Soul”. He also manages new talent and is producing several shows currently in development with his production company, Bravokid Entertainment. But truthfully we think that this quote from him sums him up the best.... “A sure formula for success is an incredible faith in the Creator and in the God within you. Tunnel your vision on what you want. Get rid of all negative influences including family (but be kind with detachment), best friends and frenemies.
Work like you have only 24 hours to live. Laughter and comedy by any means necessary. NEVER ever speak anything but greatness in your life no matter what your circumstances are. The only reality is the oneness with you and your Creator …” – Ernest L. Thomas
Stage, to Film, the makings of a LEGEND LET’S TALK TO ERNEST
KJ: Ernie;You’ve been in the business for about 30 years. Who helped you get your first big break into the acting business? Ernest Thomas: That was in New York. I started out in plays. So I would say as far as the actual acting job, that was Dan Freudenberger . I was a student at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts and what happened was unprecedented at that time, because the academy does not allow you to do anything until you’ve graduated. They don’t think you’re ready. But I was doing the student play s and they have people come and watch you and this guy wanted me for this new play by Joyce Carol Oates, the famous writer, novelist who wrote a
book and a play and it was about a black situation.It shocked everyone. I could not believe he wanted me ! So they gave me a special leave of absence to do this play. I think it went on for several weeks and it was called The Miracle Play and I got into the union from that and I got great reviews from Kathleen Carroll of the Daily News etc. KJ: Wow, that’s big ! Ernest Thomas: So that’s stage wise. Film-wise, I mean – NBC, I’m trying to think which agent I was with, but I got the part of a slave. Don’t we all? (laughing). You have GOT to play the slave at some point in
your life! It was called Gordon USA... I wish I had gotten a copy of that. But I played a slave and the lead guy was the star of Sesame Street at that time. This is like around 1973. I did three plays there. I was really blessed – I was pitching myself because that way they choose you over people – especially with Don’t Call Back. I remember Lawrence Hilton Jacobs had just done Claudine so I figured he’s going to get this role.I still think Lawrence Hilton Jacobs is a great actor and he was so nice about the auditions. I said to him, “Oh man, I know you’re going to get it.” He went, “No, don’t say that. You just go in and do your thing.” KJ: Which would you say , ‘skill-wise’ is easier to learn. ..would you say the comedic acting or the drama training? Why do you think one is easier or more difficult? Ernest Thomas: Oh, man, comedy hands down ! With all due respect to the dramatic actors .. the comedy, and they will tell you comedy is – the old thing . Dying is easy but comedy is hard. Dying is easy but comedy is hard because the timing is like something either you have it or you don’t, and you see a lot of dramatic actors fail at that but the comedic actors can go to dramatic -like, in a moment’s time. You look at Robin Williams. He’s scary– the film he did with Pacino, definitely Matt Damon where he won an Oscar for that, for best supporting actor.And even Eddie Murphy, what Eddie Murphy did in Dream Girls. That’s what ‘s up– absolutely, man.Then, just – look at Mo’Nique, winning the Oscar for Precious. Funny Mo’Nique! I mean – I can think of a few dramatic actors
ample, you’re known as Raj in What’s Happening and Mr. Omar in Everybody Hates Chris. So can you discuss the difference between the two time periods of your career? like De Niro who became comedic Actors now – he’s the comedy film King-but that’s rare! KJ: Do you think you have like two generations? For ex-
Ernest Thomas: Yes. Oh, man. And who would have thought...w ho would have thought that – wooh! From the 70 ‘s I’d go all the way to 2005 – with Everybody Hates Chris ! I pinch myself and
I do thank God for that – Raj was definitely a character. People loved that. A lot of people said – they went to law school , they went to medical school. They’re doctors. That guy inspired them because he was intelligent. It was that idealist thing, that high ideals and still having fun that made me want to be that. He’s valedictorian of his class and yet he was still having fun with his friends and all that and they love that.So everybody is always saying he was every man’s best friend, every mother’s favorite child, every teacher’s favorite student and every woman’s ideal mate. He was that every man and with Mr. Omar, it’s like this guy – is so funny because he’s really – not that guy. He’s a mean guy and he’s not necessarily considered a role model. I mean, he’s a funeral director who as soon as the women lose their husbands, he ‘s all in it, ya know?! I mean, he ‘s got about that much sympathy for the husband! He’s like ; “Yeah, I’m sorry, wow , that sounds rough man”... s o you up for dinner “ (Laughter) ? I mean I love that he was so delicious to do because of that. He was also tight with the money constantly with Drew and everyone loved the one act where I borrowed $5 from Drew in the show and he harasses me. People see a different Drew. Drew is like incredible man-he’s like a gangster coming to my place at 3 o’clock in the morning (laughing). So I mean people saw that one a lot. That one and the one where I’m making little Chris work hard and tell ing him I got a scholarship for him. I give him a bunch of books and that’s the scholarship (laughing). The youth embrace me with that love and that’s amazing grace. I thank God, Ally LeRoi, Chris Rock. I really thank them for that. KJ: What has been your favorite role and tell us about when you had to overcome dark times in your career. Can you – talk about this a little bit for me? Ernest Thomas: Sure- sure , I would say definitely – I loved playing in Malcolm X. I love this man. I mean that was an out of the body experience. That was a special moment and Denzel was at the top of his game and so was Angela Bassett directed by the great Spike Lee! I had several bouts and challenges and thank God that was over with 24 years ago now. The light of Christ is shining through now, but I went through it. To be honest at a point I was selling out to those bad habits, wanting to escape really , and that cocaine... the fight, baby, you will see nothing but clouds. You won’t
see nothing else, trust me ! You will see no worries, just like on cloud nine. You can be what you want to be! Just listen to the words to Cloud Nine, But Cloud Nine is going to go dark in a minute. It will only last for so long and when you crash – when the high goes away, you will come crashing down. You’re in hell. You’re like in the basement of hell and I am not lying. You’re like oh boy, oh God, but yeah man, I didn’t know it was going to be this. I’d say to myself; “please God, I would never do it again “. Then you get out. It’s time for your drug and you go right back. Oh, I can’t believe I did this again. Oh Lord, please Lord, please forgive me and it’s just the back and forth. It would be OK for two years and then another year you go back. Then you’re OK for a year. You go back. So that went on and I really thought – when I saw Whitney, when I heard the news, when I heard about her in that hotel, I said that could have been me! I look back and wonder how I got over it all of that because it is so real because I know that I could have been dead. Only God’s grace. People and friends did OD. People did leave and actually got killed because they were drug dealers and trying to steal shit from the man, on Cloud Nine. KJ: That’s crazy deep. So having experianced all of that, w hat ideals would you recommend to aspiring current actors concerning their craft and secondly, what would you want your legacy to be? Ernest Thomas: Oh, great question. To the actors, so many of them, they’re really not serious ,they’re playing with it and they want it overnight and they just won’t admit that. They’re not in love with it like Denzel is. They’re not in love with it like Loretta Devine or Vanessa Bell Calloway. They love it but they’re not in love with it like that, like Pacino. You’ve got to study ! I think that they’re looking at the Hollywood stories . You have to study and when I say study I mean beyond studying it, and only God can really give you that charisma and that other thing called favor . Ernest Thomas and Boxing legend Muhammad Ali
I ’m sure there’s people who think they’re more talented than me or think they’re more talented than even Denzel or Samuel L. Jackson or Brad Pitt or whatever and they think “why them?” but beyond all that, I think there is the anointing and you have to know what is your purpose and where your anointing is . I do believe that it’s something that if you want it bad and asked for it, God will give you that. I see people who didn’t look – they didn’t have that charisma and they didn’t have that light and all of a sudden, man, the next time you saw them, they had all that and they had done some work spiritually in every which way ! So I think with actors, in addition to getting the skills you should work at it as if this is your last day on earth.You do it like that and God will honor that work ethic.God will honor the fact that you’re doing all you can do humanly possible and with that supernatural faith and believing anything. So just have a little bit. Keep that a little bit and work hard and it’s going to happen. When I came here in ’75 I had to do this. I was like,I got to do this or I’m going to die. I’m going to die if I don’t do this. I got to do this now. Sure, you’re going to have your haters. But I didn’t come here to be like d by the world. I came here for God to come inside me and help me to express all I got. So when I do this I know that I’ve done everything. I have time well spent and that’s my legacy.
I go to see plays and encourage the young playwrights and the actors and let them know hey, here’s my number any advice I can give you most of the time, you’re going to get it ! But , they know when you call me, I’m going to give you a supernatural word from God. So I definitely want the legacy of being the Dream Keeper and having open doors for people . I just want to see them grow and become great beyond my imagination. Some will become arrogant and not give you credit at all. That’s all right too. But the fact is I know that I gave unconditionally- and so as I said I’m still, keeper of the dream. But, it’s important also be a distributor of kingdom wealth and kingdom wealth means spiritual and actually having fun. It’s a fun process. When I saw Mo’Nique at the Apollo in New York, I told her a star is born.Her first agent I gave her was Lyn Oliver – she came to LA but she’s from Baltimore. Talk to Lyn. I know Lyn got her some leading roles but I’m not like hey, I made her career,but the fact that I could recognize it was cool, when she had done The Parkers, she was in tears telling people that you said I was – a star is born. I said, “Yes, I did baby. A star is born.” KJ: So, who is your Idol Ernest? Ernest Thomas: Definitely Sidney Poitier . Sidney is definitely my idol of course-come on, I mean I don’t think in fact I know I would not be here as an actor if there was no Sidney Poitier!. So definitely Sidney Poitier is a major part of me being here and then him choosing me to be in his movie. Man, are you kidding? Unbelievable. So humbled man. He ranks there with Muhammad Ali -yes, yes, yes. KJ: What are you up to currently? Ernest Thomas: I have a film that just came out on Lifetime. It has been running called Foreclosed starring Jamie Kennedy, and from the Goodfellas Paul Sorvino and Marlee Matlin who won the Oscar for Children of a Lesser God and James Denton who’s in Desperate Housewives and I play a lawyer on there. And then another film that I did that in New York with Actor, Eric Roberts. I really would love another series. I have a great agent, Polygon Agency . Karim Muhammad is my agent and the CEO of that company. So we’re packaging sitcoms I really want to produce like my colleagues Henry Winkler and Rob Reiner did. I want to work with my darlin Lydia King the Chief Editor of this wonderful magazine on her reality show concepts and I want to put out quality shows, to produce them – and make the whole world laugh. Every race, every Christian, Jew, Buddhist you name it. If I have it my way we would all be one, the only race which is .. the human race-ONE.
Dance...Dance...Dance!
MTV VMA Winner Jeffrey Page Speaks on Choreographing Beyonce’s Mrs. Carter
J
MTV Video Music Award Winner & Emmy Nominated Choreographer/ Dancer Jeffrey Page has shared his talents with Beyonce’ Knowles, Solange Knowles, Cirque du Soleil, FELA! Alvin Ailey, Fatima Robinson, Debbie Allen, Bill T. Jones and FOX’s SYTYCD now he speaks on lending his choreographic material to The Mrs. Carter Show World Tour, and signs on as a judge for Maltina Dance All, Nigeria’s version of ‘So You Think You Can Dance’.
effrey Page’s talents as a dancer and choreographer have taken him everywhere from Hollywood awards shows to West African villages, producing collaborations with the biggest names in modern dance as well as superstars of pop music. Page received an Emmy nod for his 2005 NAACP Image Award choreography, he took home the 2011 MTV Video Music Award in the category “Best Choreography” for constructing the finale of Beyonce’s internationally inspired epic music video “Run the World (Girls)” and is often credited with giving the multi-platinum diva her African dance flair. Page was recruited as a resident choreographer on FOX’s reality TV sensation ‘So You Think You Can Dance’ and currently serves as Creative Director for RCA recording artist Jazmine Sullivan. In the Fall of 2009, Jeffrey expanded his reach even further when he made his Broadway debut in the cast of the artistic director Frank Gaston during Tony Award winning musical FELA! the MTV Video Music Awards for the song “Ring the Alarm”. Currently Choreographers across the world fantasize about the once in a Jeffrey’s choreographic material can be lifetime chance to work with Beyoncé Knowles, an extraordinary seen across the globe during Beyonce’s talent who is known to keep a tight knit circle of dancers and Mrs. Carter World Tour where he put creative people. Jeffrey Page was first sought out to work w/ the together dance moves for “Grown multi-Grammy Award winning entertainer on her 2007 world Woman,” “Single Ladies (Remix)” and tour “The Beyoncé Experience” in support of her sophomore “Run the World (Girls).” album B’Day. The two had previously met while dancing alongside each other at promotional appearances for her debut solo Jeffrey says, “I’m very proud to be a album, Dangerously in Love. In 2006 Jeffrey helped choreograph part of the creative team for The Mrs. Beyoncé’s live performances of “Déjà Vu” featuring husband Jay-Z Carter Show World Tour. I’ve been while also choreographing the diva’s performances at The World a part of Beyonce’s creative team for Music Awards and VH-1 Fashion Rocks Tribute to dance icon nearly 8 years now, and have watched Josephine Baker. That same year Jeffrey assisted Beyonce’s resident her blossom into an attentive yet
unapologetic artist. I believe that as an artist it is our responsibility toto reflect the wide spectrum of human beauty that ranges from piercing to soothing for the senses, and Beyonce has masterfully tapped into developing these varied depths of how s pectacular grandeur collide with art. The many artists that she has continued to bring together is a gumbo of the biggest and brightest flavors in the pantry and a testament of her creative prowess and business acumen. My conversations with her are easy and creatively motivating, she is not afraid of exploring big ideas yet is confident enough to allow me to experiment and play. Our chat about the choreography for “Grown Woman” was a pretty quick and painless sell - I showed her some intricate footwork that I have become known for and she loved it immediately. I staged the opening for that and added a few “groove” moments. My work is also featured on the tour in the remix version of “Single Ladies,” as well as the signature motif for “Run The World (Girls)”
THEINTERVIEW
TM: Where and when did you first develop your passion for dance and choreography? JEFFREY:I I”ve enjoyed choreographing and creating dance since I was a very young boy. In Indianapolis, where I was born and raised, there was huge competition that many young black kids/teens would frequent called “Star Quest“. Everyone mainly went to see the latest and greatest hip-hop dance groups and the skits that they would come up with -- it was really influential to me and way out of the box. Groups like Nasty Boys, Good Fellas, Off The
Hook, and Satisfaction to name a few. These groups were local royalty, and I truly wanted to be like them - displaying a witty Naptime groove and in such an entertaining way! Witnessing these performance, helped to ignite a blazing fire of a creative mind inside of me. M: What is your very favorite thing about what you T do? JEFFRERY I enjoy creating and being apart of a team of creators . Art is the only form that has the capability of conveying empathy, and therefore enjoy
being apart of manifesting some unrecognized truth. I am excited by weaving together the individual narrative of the lights, and the sound, and the costuming, On September 2nd, Nigeria’s premiere dance TV reality show along with the staged action and music Maltina Dance All air edit’s Seventh Season. With 220k Face- and dance in order to reveal a truth that is book followers, MDA has become one of the hottest programs poignant and typically not so obvious. It’s in West Africa - traveling across the country from Lagos to healing and brings the world a little closer Benin, Enugu, Ibadan, Abuja and Port Harcourt, in search of together. dancers within the genres of Hip Hop, Jive, Gumboot, Pantomine, Wazobia and Salsa. Jeffrey Page will serve as one of the TM: You’ve worked with television, stage four seasoned dance professional judges alongside Muyiwa and film; which would you say was your Osinaike, Bimbo Obafunwa and Janell Burgess. Dancers will favorite project and why? be competing to win a cash prize of N6,000,000 ($40,000) and the title of Nigeria’s No.1 Dance Family. JEFFREY: Most recently, I was the choreographer on a feature film called ‘Carry Me Home’ (starring Cuba Gooding, Jr.), and to be in the midst of the creative team that I developed for her music video. She is most definitely a “Grown Woman” and when that music video drops it’s going to be amazing!”
was mind blowing for me. I was able to bear witness to the emotionaljourney that the camera man’s goes on, and the gaffer, and the set designer. It was so inspiring to me because day in and day out was able to see that there creative journey were just as urgent as mine, and ultimately our goals were all the same in creating a brilliantly choreographed, lighted, designed and directed scene…movie! It’s exciting to identify with ‘birds’ which you are able to ‘flock’. M: Well said! To many Beyonce is “untouchable” do you T have a close relationship with her, and if so, whats it like to be tight with one of the most famous women in the industry? JEFFREY: B eyonce is very touchable - just not in the way that people ‘want’ for her to be. As an artist she opens herself in enormous ways, ways that most people could never even think of exposing themselves. Good art (and entertainment) is evidence of vulnerability, truth and sincerity. I think we ought to redefine what it means to be ‘touchable’ in our current views of celebrity. I believe that Beyonce shares with the world both her most greatest and terrifying self through her art -- we, the audience, just need to open our minds and eyes a bit more in order to appreciate what it is that she is actually sharing with us all. M: I feel you. So Jeffrey, what is the thing that you like the most T about touring with a high profile celebrity? What is the least? JEFFREY: I actually don’t do much touring with celebrities at all - typically, Iam brought in to help pull a creative concept together, rehearse it a bit and then send it on its way. When I do get to tour, I love seeing world, meeting new people, eating new foods - but I much rather enjoy seeing the world on my own terms and while not “working”. Living out of a bag and not having a base or a center can be quite complicated as well, but it comes with the territory.
JEFFREY : My guess is as good as the next persons -- I hope it’s something DOPE and creatively juicy!
TM: What are you working on with Jasmine currently?
JEFFREY : At the moment I am learning about and reading Rumi (dude is dope!). In light of my head been blown wide open by his poetry, I would like to defer to a verse from Rumi:
JEFFREY I n my opinion, Jazmine has not been given the credit that she very well deserves. She is quite a phenomenal talent, and is working on her next album - which I am very excited about. I’m a huge fan of her music, and a part of her creative team. She is a brilliant creative collaborator, and I can’t wait to begin staging and physicalizing her music! TM: I would absolutely agree with you on that. I know that you keep your hands full so what other projects can we expect to see you involved with in 2014
M: If you had to leave the T world with a bit of ‘Jeffrey Page Wisdom’ what would that be?
“…See the value of true art, when the earth or a soul is in the mood to create beauty; for the witness might then for a moment know, beyond any doubt, God is really there within, so
www.insanityisreality.com @MiszInsanity on Twitter:https://twitter.com/ MiszInsanity https://www.facebook.com/insanityisreality08 INSTAGRAM: @MiszInsanity08
HOWARDMCQUITTE TRUMAGAZINEMOV Science Fiction/Action/Horror/ Fantasy/Drama Cast:Brad Pitt(Gerry Lane),Mireille Enos(Karin Lane),daniella Kertesz(Segen),Stering Jerins(Constance Lane),Matthew Fox(Parajumper),James Badge Dale(Capt. Speke).(PG-13) Running time:115 minutes.Director:Marc Forster. Andrew Fassbauch(Elyes Gabel) states:”Mother Nature is a serial killer.She wants to get caught,she leaves bread crumbs,she leaves clues...Mother Nature knows how to disguise her weakness as strength.”How true,but is what happens to Gerry Lane(Brad Pitt)and his family’s world because of Mother Nature?Connie Lane(Sterling Jerins),one of the two daughters of Gerry and Karin(Mireille Enos)screams aloud when there’s no zombie to be seen.Maybe her scream is a send off before tons of zombies ruin the Lane family’s daily routine as well as millions(if not billions)of civilians in Philadelphia and around the world.If I’m not mistaken,that scene of Sterling Jerins screaming is stolen from then child-actress Dakota Fanning in the remake of “The War of the Worlds”(2005). What starts out as a normal day for the Lane family in their car backed in traffic in downtown Philadelphia,an explosion occurs;panic follows as people run in various directions away from the fireball.Then what looks like a crazy looking man--a zombie-puts his head through a car window and finds an unsuspecting victim. More zombies spring up to attack terrorized people.
TER VIEREVIEW
“World War Z” is closer to Steven Soderbergh’s “Contagion”(2011)than to Steve Miner’s “Day of the Dead”(2007) or George Romero’s “Night of the Living Dead’(1968).There’s a pandemic in “World War Z” and Gerry Lane,an employee of the United Nations(what he does there is vague)is the man selected by military commanders to wage war war and find a”cure” against the growing numbers of zombies. I think one of the problems with “World War Z”is it focuses far too much on Brad Pitt and his family’s sufferings.Marc Forster’(“Finding Neverland”,” The Kite Runner”has Pitt go off to” save the day”while his wife and kids are on an aircraft.Mr.Pitt keeps the suspense going risking his life going to Jerusalem as helicopters fly around the city as the zombies are outside the walls while the living are trapped inside. I think there’s enough in “World War Z” to see it if for no other reason than the bulk of this year’s summer movies are inferior to some previous summers(bur the bar has been getting lower and lower it seems by the year). Brad Pitt’s character is likable and in spite of some weak plot points,there’s things I like about the movie.
Behind the music Benzel Baltimore
An Authentic funk infused groove with a seasoned jazz swing combined with his positive, energetic personality and a great big big smile from behind the kit is how drummer Benzel Baltimore is described often, both on AND off stage on and off stage. Held by Bootsy Collins as a baby, the Baltimore native got his first taste of drumming at the age of 2, and has been gigging as a professional musician since the age of 15. As the son of the legendary trumpet player Bennie “The General” Cowan, Benzel was bred into funk music so there was no doubt that he was destined for greatness. His energy on stage and his electrifying performances and improvisational drum solos landed him a coveted spot as the drummer for George Clinton and Parliament Funkadelic.. The Parliament “newcomer” studied his craft early on with the likes of Dave Weckl, Steve Smith, Pat Patrillo and Horacio Hernandez, which has made him not only versatile, but one of the most sought after drummers drummers in the industry. A few years ago Benzel caught the attention of world famous drummer Dennis Chambers, who was so impressed with his talent that he took Benzel under his wing and became his mentor. Many people describe him as the “young guy with an old soul” and “. Other credits include the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Woodstock 99, Jazz in Vienne, and the Essence Festiva, as well as playing on the same bill with legends such as Meshell N’Degeocello, Sheila E, Melanie Fiona, Robert Glasper, Robbie Coltrane and Pat Metheney! Q: You’ve been touring with the amazing George Clinton for awhile now. What’s it like and how did you happen to land that gig? A: Call it family ties ! It all started in 1978 when my dad , and a handful of Baltimore musician (like Dennis Chambers) landed the gig as teenagers ! My father (trumpet player Bennie Cowan) has been there ever since opening the door for me to start auditioning around the age of 14. I started sitting in on the show at age 15 but have been a touring member for about 3 years! Q: When your not touring with George Clinton and Parliament Funkadelic what else are you up to?
A: When I’m not on the road , I’m mentoring and giving drum lessons to youths as well as adults ! I’m also active in church and a part of the band there. Other than that I’m a studio drummer and gig around Baltimore and DC, doing anything from jazz to rap to funk and I take calls! Q: Do you get into songwriting and producing at all? Are you working on any songs in the studio with George? A: Actually I also do some production making various Hip Hop and pop tracks. George has new album coming out and I might pop up on a song (laughing). Q: What do you have on the horizon for upcoming projects?
A: I have an album coming out soon called “Arch Nemesis”, which is a hip hop album, but the drums are the main theme. The biggest project is “Funkadelic 2.0”, which I can’t say too much about- but let’s just say we are keeping the funk alive ! Q: What do you love about the music industry and what do you find the most challenging? A: In the music industry I love the fact that I’m able to show the whole world the gifts that God has blessed me with and enabled me to reach the world for him and inspire others ! The biggest challenge is getting your name established out there -which, takes non stop hustling ! As you can see, Benzel is out here keepin it funky and keepin it TRU!
Sy
Yo Gotti Shooting at Epic
Rant of The Month Sy Huff Community & Special Feature Columnist Sy Huff@TruEntmagazine.com
A
lright..... Here I go Hope you can handle the truth - because I’m sure I’ll be snappin by the time you get to the end of this.. *This weeks topic... *Yo Gotti* (amongst others) in Minneapolis... Like it, Share it, Hate it, Love it - do what you want to do.. Just read it. Before I say what NEEDS TO BE SAID to the people of my city, I will say this much as to not point fingers because ‘ultimately’ the person who DID this is the “responsible one” for what happened to Ty at Yo Gotti this weekend... So let me say this - (and much to his credit), Beecher Vaillancourt has ALWAYS worked hard at being a fantastic businessman for the purpose of making sure our city gets to experience some of the entertainment that we all should be able to get out and ENJOY... This I know personally! That being said, as a colleague who also does a lot of work for (good) entertainment in and for our city, as a like KG Wilson Minn. Own Peacemaker taking a stand on Voilents
minded businessman, but most importantly as a Native and “Voice” of this beautiful city of ours - I (personally) am asking Beecher, (as a GM of EPIC) and the people of the City (Epic patrons in particular) who actually give a fu*k about their lives not only continuing, but the quality thereof, that want to go out and enjoy something that we as adults should be able to do - to come up with a way that says “AIN’T NO WAY”!!! AIN’T NO WAY you can get a Gun up in this building to come here and
see a show!! AIN’T NO WAY! Whatever that takes! If EPIC has to pay for “Airport” type of Security - Then so be it! If the City has to chip in to make an investment to decrease these types of incidents at our entertainment venues, because it decreases the overall quality of our City - Then so be it! (Although it seems as though the 40+ cop cars that responded to Epic this weekend somehow seems to “justify” the outrageous City Spending on Law Enforcement rather than investing that money in ‘Future Prevention
of these crimes to make our City more safe’, therefore, giving “the City” an excuse to continue to increase spending for all ‘the wrong reasons’).. Where is the Mayor saying “AIN’T NO WAY” our businesses can have these outcomes over and over and over again?! (without just offering the ‘solution’ of “just shutting the place down” as many city officials have suggested). Where are the Club Owners saying, “if we had NWA in 1988, or the Hardest - most Thugged Out artist in the world, how could we host them here for people to come and see a great show (if that’s your taste), and leave this place as safe as they came?”.. These kinds of things effect businesses in more ways than one! It not only impacts our city - but forever changes the lives of some of our loved ones. Where is the DEMAND for the quality of entertainment AND the Quality of LIFE for residents of our city? And WTF would you go and ‘support’ these types of events and venues for without KNOWING that you are in an “Airport tight” security venue? It’s sad that it would take those types of measures to ensure our safety just to ‘enjoy’ what we want to experience, but it’s even more sad to keep seeing the headlines of how these things transpire IN the clubs of our city and especially in and around Epic. If that was my place, or I had any say so over how Downtown Clubs (with bad history or ‘risky’ shows) operate, I would MAKE them come up with a security plan that is tested to the fullest. Just like the Country Bar JUST lost their Liquor License to a sting recently (sad but true story) - if ‘undercover city workers’ can sneak stuff (guns/weapons) into your establishment - then your establishment has to cancel ANY shows for the next _____ days or you loose your business license for ‘x’ # of months. Whatever it is - THERE IS A WAY!!! All this Tom Foolery with any old body being able to bring a gun in - that should ALWAYS be someone else’s fault (along with the shooter) for allowing it to happen.. If we don’t create and enforce good, safe, secure businesses and adult concert venues for us to enjoy, the bottom line is WE JUST WON’T HAVE THEM ANYMORE!! At least “We” won’t have them any more.. And you know exactly what I’m saying! Not ‘just’ black folks, but people of all walks who enjoy ‘our’ music. Y’all better wake up and pay attention!!! The ‘lack of ideas’ for prevention isn’t “by accident”. It’s systematic. It’s intentional. They lack idea’s - but one thing they DON’T lack is DATA and reasons to ‘take away’ from the “Cultural” Community. And what do we do? We still run out as fast as we can (2,000 people in the club this weekend) ran out and paid somewhere between $25-$50 per ticket (Plus Bottle Service and everything else) to see *Yo Who!?* You do the math! How about making an investment to tighten up things so that the next morning when you are blessed to be home after the show, you can see YO Kids! Or YO Mama! Fuck a Yo Gotti!!!!! Them bullets could come YO Way on any given night.. So until we have enough sense to put our / YO Heads together to come up with a solution to saying
“we have the safest place to come and see a show of ANY kind”.. It could be YO Ass ... YO Ass.. or YO Ass either laid up in a box, or saying goodbye to a loved one. That’s why MY ass don’t go to Epic for stuff like this. I support it when it ‘makes sense’.. I’ve seen a many of shows there - even hosted several of them there - but will be damned if I’m gonna play the odds when it just doesn’t make sense. So was I there this weekend? HELL no! The math didn’t add up.. And you know what The REALLY crucial part is about it all??? Is how much YO Gotti gives a f*ck about you.. Because despite it being not the first, or the second, or the third shooting at a Yo Gotti show in the U.S., we (as a city) STILL ran out and bought some ratchet ass dress, got our hair did, got our kicks clean, our TrueReligions right, spent our money (that we could have spent on our kids) or donated something to someone in need, go out there and take a look at Yo
Mpls. Police Chief Responds to Deadly Shooting at Epic
Gotti’s Twitter account - and he don’t or didn’t have not one thing to say, NOT ONE THING, about what popped off at the show here this weekend. NOT ONE.. So while we continue to “support” this awful equation of senselessness in OUR city - the city (or Cities) that WE are responsible for, let me take this moment to congratulate us on our ability to prioritize. We got some serious changes to make if we want anything to change... And on that note - Class Dismissed....
My name is Sy Big-Sy Huff ... And I approve this message!
Welcome to Coach Creer’s Coaches Corner I’
By Joseph Creer
m excited to be apart of the TruEntMagzine family, here at CCCC we will explore all of your sporting needs. I will be interviewing on national and local level at the high schools, colleges and professional events. CCCC will entertain topics that is requested by email or what’s suggested to Coach Creer by popular demand.
“ HEADS UP!” “HEADS UP” ! (These are the words we use as a warning or to get the attention of someone.) In every form of Athletic Sports from Basketball to Soccer, there is a chance that the athlete suffers from a concussion. “Heads Up! in Youth and High School Sports” is also a movement that was started by C.D.C in partnership with Leading Experts and Organization developed this Program. Heads Up ! is a Kit or Tool online course that help Coaches, Parents, and Athletes that are involve in sports. The Heads Up initiative provides important Information on Preventing, Recognizing and Responding to a Concussion. The Heads Up, Kits or Tools are available at: www.cdc.gov.headsup/ training/ or CDC 800-232-4630 TTY 888-232-6348 . A concussion is a very serious injury on all sports levels, from youth to professional. A concussion is a violent blow to the head which causes the Brain to slam against the skull beyond the ability of the Cerebral Spinal Fluid to cushion
the impact when an athlete takes a hit to and how to detect the the head. The shockwaves from the blow signs. CCCC will have inis so intense when it passes through the terviews with athletes that Brain and bounces off the Skull, this is have minor and server where the concussion is cause on the concussion , and a interopposite side of the blow or impact. view with a Professional on Head injuries and Another tool that help processing in prevention. a Concussion is A.B.C. , use this as a “Only allow check list for your team or group. your child to play when you know that USA Football certification
A.- Assess the situation B.- Be alert for signs is there for the coach and you know that your child and symptoms is being taught the proper fundamentals of the game C.- Contact a health and that real intelligence has gone into the preparacare professional tion of practices.
Tom Coughlin, Head Coach, New York Giants The CCCC will continue this Topic part - See more at: http://usa2 in next month issue : We will go more football.com/headsup#stin-depth how to identify the symptoms hash.kkjmZhcE.dpuf_
M el b a M o or BackandInCharge M
Acclaimedstageactorandsingerreclaimherlifeina ByStacyM.B
elba Moore understands the meaning of life coming full circle. She fell in love with the stylish, quick-witted and charming Charles Huggins, someone she met in the New York and New Jersey area while very young. Huggins guided Moore, a star of the stage and music, to unforgettable highs in a career that has spanned four decades. But, it was also Huggins who proved responsible for some of the singer’s regrettable lows, including a stint as a welfare recipient. The two finally divorced, and the proceedings were any but amicable. Huggins took everything, turned his back on his Tony Award and multi-Grammy winning sweetheart of nearly two decades and split. “That was a long time ago, and the fact is, if it weren’t for Charles, I wouldn’t have known anything about business,” Moore said, in as graceful a manner as one could imagine after undeservedly being put through the ringer by someone who help to mastermind her great career, but also became counted among those who under-minded her attempts at much-needed independence. Her divorce battle even landed Moore in jail for a short time after a judge ruled she violated a gag order in which she was told not to speak about Huggins as the two battled for years in a bitter custody war over their daughter. Now, Huggins is facing federal charges of running a ponzi scheme and fraud, something he’s pleaded not guilty too. “But, I’m there for Charles now as a friend because everyone needs somebody and I choose to remember all of the great things he did for me and I know that he needs me,” said Moore. Broadway discovered the Harlem, N.Y.-born Moore, now 61, the daughter of jazz saxophonist Teddy Hill and R&B singer, Bonnie Davis, when she emerged as a star at 22-years-old, in the show, “Hair.” Moore eventually replaced Diane Keaton in the play, becoming the first black actress ever to replace a white actress on the Great White Way. At 24, Moore won a Tony Award for her portrayal of a young housemaid in the musical, “Purlie,” where she rocked audiences with songs like, “Stormy Weather,” “It Don’t Mean a Thing (if you ain’t got that swing), and “Rock of Ages.” Today, Moore is working on a play called, “Galvination,” at Miles College in Birmingham, Ala., where she’ll have a residency that’s she’s excited about. “I don’t know a whole lot about my history, my roots, so this is very exciting to me because Birmingham is where the family is originally from and this will give me a chance to look into my roots,” she said. The play is being supported by legendary comedian and actor Bill Cosby, who is on the board of directors at Miles College. “Mr. Cosby recommended me for the piece,” she said. “It’s going to be fun and it just shows that black theater is now everywhere, it’s all over.”
re
abigway Brown
Moore said she knows her fans also want to hear her sing; she’s currently working on a new CD which she expects will be ready by early next year. “I have a chance to have a great and very successful album. Although I know that I still have to give the audience what they want, which is Melba from the 70s and the 80s, too,” she said. Although it seems many continue to speak of her comeback, the talented artist with a voice that reaches levels today’s superstars could only dream of reaching, Moore’s re-emergence in popular culture began in 1993 in Gainesville, Fla., with the play, “From the Mississippi Delta.” “I worked in community theaters, banquet halls, you name it,” she said. “There’s been no loss in my range, in fact it’s increasing. There has only been growth and refinement.” In 2011, Moore was named as a Goodwill Ambassador for the construction of a permanent memorial at the United Nations to honor victims of the transatlantic slave trade. “Look, I got my life back and, with a little help, others can as well. It wasn’t experts or industry people helping me, either. I just had to work my way back up,” she said. TV One, the African American-centered television network, featured Moore’s life in their hit series, “Unsung,” which chronicles the lives of popular singers who have had their shares of ups and downs. The show recounted Moore’s Tony-winning performance in the Ossie Davis penned play, “Purlie Victorious.” It also helped viewers to re-live Moore’s various performances with top actors like Robert Guillaume, Sherman Hemsley and her former flame, Clifton Davis. In addition to her difficulties with Huggins, whom she met in 1974 and married a year later, the show also shed light on the accountants and managers who Moore said stole every dime she ever earned. By the time she married Huggins, a record manager and business promoter, Moore was a huge star and, together, the duo formed Hush Productions and went on to sign a number of successful artists, including Freddie Jackson and Meli׳sa Morgan, leading to a $20 million empire. Moore signed with Buddah Records in 1975 and released the album, “Peach Melba,” which met with more critical than box office success. However, one
Melba Moore
Are the RED SOX headed into the WORLD SERIES?
y e l a H t r o p S r e n r Co
C
raig Breslow i Red Sox. He thro sidered a lefty spe ist? This year he h hitters (98 plate ap and actually has p vs. righties, .309 v has taken him dee in scoring position extra-base hit in 4
W O H L T S I E W R B IG A R BRESLOW: Nike Apparel and an Akadema glove. C HALEY: You have played with the Padres, Red Sox, Indians, Twins, A’s and Diamond Backs, do you have a favorite ballpark and why?
HALEY: Who is the biggest practical joker you have ever been on a team with?
BRESLOW: J.J. Putz is the biggest joker on the BRESLOW: I enjoy playing in the old stadiums like team. Fenway Park, Wrigley Field, and the old Yankee HALEY: What are some of his pranks? Stadium. They all have so much history. HALEY: What is your most effective pitch? Fastball, BRESLOW: He has been known to put bubble gum on top of a guy’s cap when he’s being photographed curveball, change up or slurve? or for a video interview. BRESLOW: My fastball is my go to pitch and on a HALEY: Have you ever been the victim of a practigood day it results in lots of strikes. cal joke? HALEY: When the catcher comes to the mound BRESLOW: I usually try to be an instigator, hoping what do you talk about? to deflect the joke or prank away from me. BRESLOW: We talk about what pitches to throw, HALEY: What is the atmosphere like in the bullpen sometimes he calms me down, or tells me someduring the game? thing funny to help me relax. HALEY: What brand of gear do you use?
BRESLOW: I am never there in the beginning of the game because I am a relief pitcher. In the later
KIDS CORNER BRESLOW: It depends on what city we are in. On the East Coast I generally spend time with family because I am from New Haven, CT and most of my family is back east. Generally I will wake up and eat breakfast, then walk around and learn about the city. In places like Washington DC and Philadelphia there is a lot of history to learn.
is a pitcher for the Boston ows left-handed, and is conecialist. Left-handed specialhas faced more right-handed ppearances) than lefties (74) posted reverse splits (.225 vs. lefties). Only one of each ep this season. With runners n, he has allowed just one 43 plate appearances.
innings it all depends on how the game is going. Later in the game it can change because, we are called in for relief to either hold the lead or because we are expected to turn the game around. HALEY: I read that above your locker in Oakland that there was a cartoon picture of Albert Einstein. Is the picture still above your locker? what is the meaning of the picture to you? BRESLOW: Actually the picture got left in Oakland because I got traded in the off-season. Russ Springer was the guy who put pictures above everyone’s lockers and Albert Einstein represents being a smart
HALEY: On game days when do you eat?
guy. HALEY: What players did you look up to as a kid? BRESLOW: As a kid growing up I was a Mets fan and looked up to Dwight Gooden and other pitchers like Sandy Koufax, Randy Johnson and Greg Maddux. HALEY: How did players like Hank Greenberg, Sandy Koufax, and Ken Holtzman inspire you? BRESLOW: They are all great Jewish players and being Jewish I really appreciate what they have done in baseball history and as role models. I finally got to meet Sandy Koufax this off-season and get his autograph. HALEY: When you are on the road, what do you do before the game? shop, sleep, eat, sight see…
BRESLOW: Usually I will get up and eat breakfast, then lunch at the field, a snack after batting practice and then dinner after the game. Usually I will eat whatever food is set out for us. I tend to eat a lot of grilled chicken. HALEY: What is your Favorite Ballpark food? BRESLOW: The all American Hot Dog HALEY: Frank Pepe’s in New Haven is considered by many to be the best pizza in the country! What are your thoughts? BRESLOW: I Agree 100% that it is the best Pizza and I am glad that it has become more accessible because they now have more than one restaurant. HALEY: Do you have a favorite restaurant?
Insanity IS Reality My Take on the insane world of Reality T.V.
L
ove & Hip Hop New York is back and in full effect. I caught the season premiere last night & boy are we all in for a ride - especially those of us who are ‘Die-Hards’ !
www.insanityisreality.com
S
o this sseason lets start with the fact that Tahiry & Joe Budden are back together. I get it, they have this connection and it has been many years as well as plenty of emotion put into the relationship. Although I have to say, how convenient that he is back with her right in time for shooting? Just a thought! No telling where the journey leads those two, but they butt heads like crazy! I don’t know if Joe is clean, but if he hasn’t taken care of those demons, their relationship wont work. I was so ‘weirded’ out about the STD/HIV Test results as they planned their very SAFE sexual evening in episode one. We heard, they are back together, we watch the spots they took up and we all got to know they are STD free & were going to have some overdue sex. Great, moving on.
I can only imagine the VIEWERS they racked in for the premiere . To take a look back at the ORIGINAL Cast, there is only ONE still standing... Miss Yandy of course. Love & Hip Hop has always contained one person who was actually an artist, which is Olivia. Mona Scott must have felt hella bad to keep her the last 2 Seasons (lets keep it real, you were thinking it), but I know I am not alone when I scream “Thank goodness Olivia will not bore us at all this year”. Even her 5 minutes an Episode was 5 mins too long.
Y
andy, what a SOLDIER that woman is! Once Jim Jones’s Manager, she is a manager of various artists and in involved in many other business ventures. She ‘s also started a Label with (my fantasy future Husband) Rich Dollaz. Mendeeces is still sitting in County facing 20+ fricken years in the Federal Prison and as far as all that is concerned, I am way confused !. She is a single mother, business woman, she still plays mom to his child from a previous relationship, and she just wants her fiance home with her!! You can see it in her face. I cried with her last night, I cant even lie. Her crying as she listened to ‘Amina Buttafly’ sing her song, even made me cry. In my mind, Yandy is my homegirl because she is just so cool, on TV or on Social Media. Again, she is a soldier and I am so glad we get to watch her do her thing, holding her man & family down, and prospering in her career. She is the reason LHHNY is still alive and although many cast members are ratchet as hell, she keeps it positive & a good example of what LOVE and HIP HOP equals.
L
et me get to the new people...the LHHNY cast is switched up pretty much yearly. If you’re like me, I don’t like new people. I must say this madness with Gunz & Amina in the middle of living with his baby mama (Tara ) IS CRAY CRAY! He lives with his BM, Mabages Amina, and now wants to get her signed with Rich Dollaz (the MAN who knows first hand that mixing business with pleasure just does not work) all the while HE IS MARRIED TO AMINA. She is the Mistress and his Artist. Tara, completely oblivious would consider Amina the Mistress for sure, but she will soon find out that it is SHE that is the Mistress. Amina & Gunz have been together a Year, Gunz (who lives with) Tara have been together like 15’ish. This threesome is going to keep this s how live hunnie because Erica & Rich moving on, that was our drama last year! Erica Jean? I’m sorry I have no clue who she is and don’t care to know until I figure out if I like her on my favorite show. Sad but true, its how I roll.
R
ich Dollaz & Erica Mena! Oh we will so miss them being together for the simple fact that THEY were our Entertainment in the midst of the more ‘normal ‘ story lines from everyone else. I think Rich loves that girl, but from what we see, she is in love with someone else. She is in love with a woman at that. Erica looks great and there is never any telling how or what she will bring, but time will tell, she always has a story. Rich, new Label with Yandy, he looks yummy as always and I am not sure if Olivia is still someone he messes with, but I do hope he has picked up some more talent. I am excited to see the Label do great. I’m not sure how long it will take for the World to stop grouping ‘Richie D’ & ‘Mena’ in the same sentences, b ecause they went so hard last season. Is it just me or is there any one else looking forward to seeing Erica in a relationship with a woman as well as the scene that (is possibly) tricking us to believe Rich will get in on it at some point. Tsk Tsk Tsk
All LHHNY Fans we are in for a WILD RIDE this Season. We have some ATL coming in with KMichelle, Tahiry & Joe will be a roller-coaster, as always , but the drama will be much deeper, which is always good TV. I know those who love Yandy will be on this emotional ride with her and cheering her on in her vventures and new life. Peter Gunz is a DOGGIE DOG and to see that unravel on TV is going to be the best part of the show. So don ‘t expect them to be X’d out next Season (unless of course his baby mama Tara don’t do it)... the other chick... we will see. Missing this season would be the worst mistake for any Love & Hip Hop LOVER. The show has rid itself of Olivia boredom, and they added some Reality TV worthy people for us to tune into weekly. Have a blast dolls!!! LHHNY will be nothing short of what we all love about Reality TV.
Tru Around TheTown Hanging out at Cowboy Jacks: Bruce Williams Galie Jaddunath
Galie Service Thanksgiving Event, Middle Left Photo: Bruce Williams, Galie Jaddunath, Ayanna Mc Adory, Tabota Seyon, Onika Elamin, Bria Willaims
CEO of Tru Lydia King , City Counil Canadicate Brett Buckner and Leslie Harris
Left to right: 2013 Givens Foundation fellow Kirk Washington, Jr., Business Developer Tim Baylor, Northside for Buckner Community Outreach Director Lutunji Abram, Truthmaze and Leslie, Marisa Richardson and Chaz. Of course, Brett is in the middle.
Supporter of K-102 hanging out at CBJ Kelly Hunter and Gloria Berstrom
Lutunji Abram And Kmoj ‘s own Chaz Millioniare
K
Cont from page 57
Michelle. I personally think shes so ghetto ratchet and that was just lucky to get a deal (Her voice is great, I wont say it is not, but personally, I don ‘t like her music). I am a little upset that we had to watch her just last season on LHHATL and here she is in NY now. She is always entertaining but JEEZ some more of her?!?! I think watching her with all of these cast members on new turf will be interesting. I foresee some hatin going on and her target will be Miss BUTAFLY. Watch and see, you heard it here first. I am very good at predictions when I watch people long enough.
The Lovely ladies of K-102 Promoting a great Station in Minneapolis. Tru. Entertainment Magazine would like to extend a very warm welcome to Sy Huff, our new special features/ community columnist. Sy is well respected throughout the Twin Cities
Long time Friends Meeting at Loring park. Germain Brooks, Kevin Jackson and Lydia King
This Issue is decicated to a Wonderful lady LAURA MOSES THOMPSON
In Loving Memory
Laura Moses Thompson
1925-2013