2
For Connoisseurs & Conscious Living
This magazine is called
TWELVE to note its
monthly presence, only
TWELVE times a year.
Also, and more impor-
tantly, TWELVE is a symbol
of time. So it represents
timely information and the
central point by which life
events are measured. And
of course, timepieces are
part of the finer things,
perfect for our core read-
ers in pursuit of sophisti-
cated living.
Welcome to TWELVE.
3
Welcome to No. IX!
Who’s #READY for some football? I know
Kansas City is ready. You won’t find a
stronger fan base in the nation than Chiefs
fans. With that in mind, we’ve created this
issue, the RED Book, as a salute to the Chiefs
and an aide to fans nationwide.
In this issue, we also reveal some of the
TWELVE magazine team, the folks that bring
you KC each month, in vivid color. Also, as
we approach the new Fall season, we brought
KC’s style community together as a resource
for those planning those new school and
work looks.
As always, we highlight the people to watch,
key tips and places to go. So enjoy the features.
Remember, this is your magazine. You have an opportunity to contribute to the content by
writing, submitting story suggestions, and of course, attending the launch events and more.
Contact us at [email protected] to get involved and send us feedback, too!
Sincerely,
Ken L
KC CHIEFS ARE #READY
COVER
KC Chiefs
DON’T MISS
Chiefs Schedule pg. 50
INSIDE
Ted McKnight 10
Football Guide 14
Dexter DMC 16
12 Team 27
EXEC Feature 30
DBowe 68
CHEER 76
SEPTEMBER 2013 Volume I, Issue IX
Though a lifestyle publication isn’t unique, TWELVE evolves the genre. It’s the only magazine
that you both read and live. We set out to create more than a literary piece. We’ve merged
both the online world and the live event into the “magazine experience”. Once a month, we
release a new issue of the magazine. The release is paired with a live launch event on First
Fridays, where the feature elements and characters of our magazine are brought to life for
you to touch, taste, feel and experience. The live experience becomes part of gathering
ground of additional stories, photos, and more for the final written magazine.
What’s Different? Read It & Experience it Live
kcsoul.com @TWELVEKC
TWELVE Magazine is
part of the KCSoul.com
network. Owned by
H.G.E. Marketing, LLC.
(H.G.E.). Views & opin-
ions expressed here
are not necessarily
those of H.G.E. or
contributors.
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5
SPECIAL THANKS
To all of Our Writers, Designers,
Planners, Contributors,
Advertisers & Supporters of Xii.
Ken L.
Join the team: Email: [email protected]
Tierra Allan
Shemeka Cockrem
H. Ervin Photography
W. Sarah Fletcher
DJ Franklin
Antisha Gaitan
Eric Harland
Andre Hayes
Rhenate Hodges
Jasmine Jackson
Raye Jackson
Stefan Jones
Katrina Leonard
Clarence Lomax
Iman Lott
Sherry Lumpkins
LeAndrea Mack
Randi McCreary
Carlanda McKinney
Gary Mitchell
Casie Murff
Tiffaney Oakes
Corey Phillips
Miko Richardson
Earl Smith
LaToya Traylor
Tony Van Trece
Michele Watley
India Williams
Jessikha Williams
Christopher White
RED BOOK SPECIAL THANKS:
Ambassador Hotel
Co-Ed Inc
Fly Society
LJ Plan for Me
Wall Street Group
6
7
8
hen we think about getting fit, what
enemy comes to mind? Fat, right?
How did it get here? How is it affect-
ing me? How in the world do I get rid of it? These
questions constantly bombard those of us who strive
to be healthy, long, and lean. Is the solution as simple
as eliminating fat? Are all types of fat bad? Despite
negative reviews, critics, statistics, and the all around
bad rap fat gets, the reality is that all fat is not created
equal. Killer fat is where we need to focus the fight.
According to the new report from the United Nations,
America is the second fattest country in the world,
with over 31% of adults classified as obese. Here in the
Kansas City metro, 29.5% of adults are classified as
obese. Why is fat such a problem in our country, and
more specifically, in Kansas City? Some blame fast-
food, some point at heredity. Whatever the culprit, we
are better equipped to manage it if we know what
we’re dealing with. Our goal is to expose readers to
the different types of fat content that grow in the
body.
We have three types of fat. The first type of fat is sub-
cutaneous which can be found just below the surface
of the skin in the human body. The second type of fat
is intramuscular fat which lies within muscular tissue.
Usually during exercise, it’s this type of fat that serves
as an energy source. The third type, visceral fat, is the
most deadly of them all. Known as toxic fat, it’s the
internal fatty tissue which surrounds vital organs like
the heart, liver, kidney and pancreas.
While the presence of excess fat under the skin
(subcutaneous fat) is often the most visible, toxic fat is
buried deep within us, making it harder to gauge how
much fat we really carry. Scientific studies have shown
that toxic fat is more dangerous than the fat near the
skin due to its release of dangerous levels of chemicals
into the body. This is what leads to heart disease, type
2 diabetes, and many forms of cancer.
So how do we get rid of visceral fat? Here are four
tips to help you combat toxic fat: Eat healthy; include whole grains, fruits, and vegeta-
bles and lean protein
Establish a weekly aerobic exercise routine
Tone your abdominal muscles
Combine strength training with toning exercises
If you’re like many and hate to embark upon the fitness
journey alone, contact Trilogy Sports & Fitness of Kan-
sas City at www.trilogyexplosion.com.
Be Unique
Trilogy Sports & Fitness (l) Chris Westmoreland, Master Fitness Trainer (r) Corey Phillips Founder / Elite Sports Performance Trainer
FAT: The Killing Facts by Gabrielle Phillips
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Lee Langston One of KC’s Top Voices
twelvekc.com
UFFKC
10
I
FANtastic Memories
t’s not hard to identify a true-grit, die-hard
football fan: The painted face masks, and tailgate ses-
sions; the concentration on the screen at all times during the
last few moments of the game; the ability to rattle off a key stats and
scores; and sometimes, there is this--the rare opportunity to sit down
with one of your all-time favorite players and do something that all
fans dream of doing….asking the questions.
Dr. James McCreary, a Kansas City native, has been a Chiefs fan for
as long as he can remember. In his thirties and forties he made a tradi-
tion of going to the games with his father, sisters and brothers. It was
never too cold cheer in the stands of Arrowhead, or too early to tune
into his favorite radio station for the latest highlight commentary. As a
Chiefs fan, James has studied many players over the years, but, when
I
Ted McKnight One-on-One with one
of KC Chiefs Top Running Backs
Story By:
Randi McCreary
Photo:
Antisha Gaitan
Bluvision Photography
11
McKnight: It wasn’t until after high school. I was fast so
they had me as a wide receiver. No one could catch me
due to my speed. As a freshman in college I got beat up
on the field. As a sophomore I began to know my role
and what I could do. That year, I decided to make a
change. No one was going to hit me anymore. When I ran
opposition play, I outran the number one defense and the
coach was furious.
McCreary: When you started with the Chiefs, how did
you know you were better than the average player?
McKnight: The moment I made the team. Because you
don’t make the team if you are an average player. I knew
I had potential to be a workhorse. I wanted to be known
to be counted on no matter what. A work horse. That’s
when I knew that no matter what happened, I was going
to get it down. Mentality.
McCreary: Which is the best quarter of the game?
McKnight: The third. You are coming back fresh. It’s
like a chess game. In the first quarter you sacrifice the
pawns. Fourth quarter is just like a flat battle. If we domi-
nate third quarter, we can win. Everybody is tired.
McCreary: Do you remember your first pro touch down?
McKnight: I don’t remember my first, but I remember
one that became a highlight: Playing against Colts in KC,
one yard play. I went off-tackle and ended up 70 yards to
break a long distance record. My first pro carry of the
football. I was scared to death. It was the Raiders vs. the
Houston Oilers. It was so loud I was wondering how I
was going to hear the cadence. That’s where the training
comes in. You don’t think. You just react. After the first
hit, I was ok.
McCreary: What was your hardest hit by an opponent?
given the chance to sit down with one of his favorite
players, it was Ted McKnight that came to mind.
Ted McKnight is no stranger to the impact of a fan. In the
early stages of his career, he recalls the moment that he
knew he had gained recognition.
“ I had just come from the Raiders, shortly after the Su-per Bowl. I was asked to play a pickup game of softball. When I got there, I figured there had to have been a traf-fic accident due to the squad cars and police officers…but it was ten thousand people ready to watch a game between the Raiders and local teachers on the softball league. That showed me hardcore fans.”
McKnight recalls moments on the field as well, when
fans were so loud he could hardly hear the play. In fact,
McKnight believes fans can be so dedicated that they can
actually change a game plan.
Ted McKnight, running back for the Kansas City Chiefs
from 1977-1983, was known as a powerhouse for the
Kansas City Chiefs during his reign. His combination of
force and focus are what make him noteworthy for
McCreary.
The two men, McCreary the fan and McKnight, the for-
mer player, had a chance to sit down and converse:
McCreary : You were drafted by Raiders. How did you
come to Chiefs?
McKnight: I was competing against men that had just
won the Superbowl. This included Terry Robiski. You
know, you had the who’s who of the NFL. I came in as a
speed merchant, very fast. I’d injured my shoulder and
got waived to Kansas City, Missouri.
McCreary: When did you find out you could really put a
move on someone and they couldn’t hold you?
Classic Chiefs vs. Raiders match-up. Ted, #22; #65, Tom Condon; Raider Rod
Martin; and the Chiefs Arnold Morgado, #21.
12
McKnight: We played against the Denver Broncos. It
was when Tom Jackson was announcing. I remember
playing in Denver. I got ball it was off-tackle play, and
like my uncle said, “green lights and blue sky” I was go-
ing for it. All of a sudden, I remember falling down and
bouncing up, running for five or ten yards and collapsing.
Jackson hit my ribs so hard I had no idea where the foot-
ball was and I collapsed. It was a hard hit.
McCreary: And what about your best hit on another
player?
McKnight: The Raiders. Mike Davis. I ran over him like
a truck coming into a kid’s playground (smiling)
McCreary: Receiver or Rusher?
McKnight: Rusher
McCreary: Shake and Bake or Straight Ahead?
McKnight: Both. Straight Ahead. Tony Reed was a shake
and bake guy. He could give you a move and come back
later and help you. Making moves so quick you don’t
know unless you watch the film. It’s like George Brett
being able to see a fastball. I have same mentality with
football. If a play was called off-tackle, the center pushed
his man away. I could see that hole and push immedi-
ately. Shake and Bake. For every action is a reaction. Bill
Kenny would laugh because I ran track. I‘d get there so
fast he’d throw ball. The objective is to go first three
steps and be at full speed. Be there at collision. My suc-
cess was to be there at collision.
McCreary: Do you have any running back favorites? McKnight: Marcus Allen, Barry Sanders, Walter Payton,
Jim Brown, first great black players.
Fullback or running back: I was a running back. All pur-
pose.
McCreary: Tell me about the “Class Act”. A lot of people
want to know about that.
McKnight: (Laughing) It was the four of us. Tony Reed,
Walter White, Bobby Bell, myself. We were trying to do
something special for alumni dinners. Linda Bell, went to
Walter and said ‘can you think of some guys that would
put on a dance routine like temptations?’ We went
through the guys that could dance. Bobby Bell was asked
to be a part of it and Linda got the Temptations music.
Everyone had their own piece where they got to break out
like soul train. We wore tuxedos and the group was
called The Class Acts. We ended up doing it twice.
McCreary: Was it hard to leave football?
McKnight: Yes. It was more than a game. It’s a culture
and lifestyle. You become a frat. You fight, bleed, to-
gether. You are tough guys that are very emotional. I
remember seeing some of the biggest men (get emo-
tional). July is hardest because they go back to camp.
Some never get over it. Some take three years.
I played hard and I was a good guy. I still appreciate fans
and the cards to sign. If people could remember that I
played the game. I’d like to be remembered as a class act.
13
14
Today, you’ll find both
men and women who
enjoy football. Still, oth-
ers see it as a complex
game with several lay-
ers of rules that make it
difficult to follow. For
the woman who’d like
to take an interest and
learn the game and
even for the men, who
could use a tune-up to
have a better conversa-
tional knowledge of
football, this is for you.
Overall Concept The team that is trying to score
has “possession of the ball” and is considered the offense. The other team, which is considered defense, is trying to stop the offensive team
from scoring.
Sounds easy enough, but in foot-ball, there are offensive, defensive, and special teams which are all
part of the same team. These teams handle different situations on the field so each time the ball
moves to their opponent, a differ-
ent team is needed. For instance, when the KC Chiefs are trying to score a touchdown,
they utilize their offensive players
like Jamaal Charles, Dwayne Bowe or Alex Smith. When the Chiefs are trying to stop the other team
from scoring they utilize their de-
fensive players like Derrick Johnson and Brandon Flowers. If this isn’t confusing enough, they have a spe-
cial team that comes in to kick
field goals and punt.
Scoring The team that gets their ball into the “End Zone” gets a touchdown which earns them 6 points. This
happens by either running the ball into the end zone or by catching the ball in the end zone. After a
touchdown, the team has the choice of either kicking the ball between the goal post (located at
the end zone) or they can line up at the 2 yard line and run or catch
the ball in the end zone for 2 extra
points(Two-Point Conversion).
(Continued on page 22)
Terence Berger
Live at the IMPROV July 11, 2013
Football
Quick
Guide
Tired of watching a
game without having
a clue about what’s
going on?
LeAndrea
Mack
15
16
READY
Dexter McCluster #22 KC Chiefs.
Words, LeAndrea Mack
Pics, Raye Jackson
TWELVEKC.COM
17
18
A Veteran Dexter McCluster figured out pretty quickly that
Kansas City loves football and is loyal to the home-
team, The Kansas City Chiefs! Since joining the or-
ganization in 2009 as a rookie, the well-rounded
Running Back, Return Specialist and Wide Receiver
soaked up the culture and fell in love with the idea
of being a KC Chief! At the start of his 4th season
with the Chiefs, he exclaims, “I feels like a veteran
in this game and am psyched and ready for the
2013 season!”
New Beginnings There have been many obstacles and a number of
significant changes to mark the new season; a
new general manager, the tragic losses surrounding
a teammate, and the trades and new faces on the
team. Yet, with positivity vibrating visibly through
him, McCluster states that he is motivated by the
changes and excited about the new beginnings that
this season will bring.
KC Chiefs Fans--The Best Fans Walking onto the field at Arrowhead Stadium in
Kansas City and hearing the thunderous volume of
eager, excited, and vociferous fans is one of
McCluster’s favorite things about Chiefs fans. He
says, “Chiefs fans are very loud and hype. They
make sure that our opponents can hear them. I
love the enthusiasm because it spills onto me.”
Preparation
To prepare in the off-season, McCluster kept his
body in shape and began a “healthier liv-
ing” regimen. He explains that his mindset has ma-
tured for a variety of reasons and with the birth of
his second child, he is more motivated and deter-
mined than ever. He also shared with Twelve Maga-
zine that if he got another contract with the Chiefs
he would even contemplate cutting off his dread-
locks!
Eagerness and Anticipation McCluster is extremely optimistic about the out-
look for the team this year. He feels that the fans
will see a team that is ready to win and highly capa-
ble. His smile revealed his eagerness and anticipa-
tion as he discussed his excitement to show the
world his development and dedication this season.
DMC Style
19
MAGAZINE
DMC Style
20
DMC, The
Other Side We all know that
he is a great offen-
sive weapon that
will inch our KC
Chiefs to victory…
but did you know
he has other tal-
ents?
In addition to his
athletic prowess,
McCluster can
croon. He’s been
singing since he
was about nine
years old. Even as
he determined that
football gave him
more opportunities
and, thus, became
his focus, singing
remained a passion.
So, this year we
will get to experi-
ence this other
talent as he de-
buts DMC, the
other side, an R&B
collection of sexy
ballads about love,
life, and relation-
ships. Music is a big
part of McCluster’s
life and he wants
his fans to know
this side of him,
too.
Twelve Magazine
wishes Dexter
McCluster all suc-
cess in his future
endeavors and
can’t wait to see
what he does
on and off the field
this season!
TWELVE MAGAZINE
21
DMC | MUSIC
By Iman Lott
Entertaining, talented, multidimensional are all
words that describe Dexter McCluster’s skills on
the field but soon these phrases will be as-
cribed to his off field efforts, as well. Dexter is
pursuing a music career and I was fortunate
enough to preview some of the songs that
comprise his first project.
The smooth vocals and amazing production
collaborations will surely earn Dexter legiti-
macy and acclaim in the music industry. His
vocal energy is undeniably compelling and
his wide range draws you into the lyrics. From
what I’ve heard, he has nowhere to go but up.
Stay tuned.
22
If a team doesn’t think they will make the touch-
down they also have the option to kick a field goal (kicking the ball in between the goal post located
at the end zone) which will give them 3 points.
Downs Downs are the length of one play: a start and stop. The offense (team with the ball) has 4 chances (or downs) to move the ball 10 yards toward the end
zone. If they get 10 yards in a single play then they
earn a first down (4 more chances or downs). However, if they don’t get “a first” (10 yards in a
single play), they are down a chance and have 3 or
the remaining number of plays left.
Remember, the defensive team will be working to prevent the opponents from moving the ball
down the field.
Here’s a little more detail on downs to clarify
downs and some of the terms you’ll hear like 3rd
and 8, or 2nd and 3 means?
3rd is the number of downs and 8 means the num-
ber of yards to go to earn another first down.
If the team doesn’t move 10 yards in 4 downs then
the other team automatically gets the ball. Usually once a team gets to their 4th down, they either kick a field goal for the 3 points or they punt the
ball so that it is further away from the other
team’s end zone.
THE TEAM There are 11 men from each team allowed
on the field at one time. Here are their posi-
tions:
Offense
Center: In the center of the offensive line. Starts the play by “hiking” the ball to the quarterback. This position places the ball on the ground be-
tween his legs and passes it backward, which is
called the “snap”. Quarterback: Very important player to re-member because he executes the plays the coach decides, or calls an “audible” if he thinks he needs
(Continued from page 14) to change the play on the field. He’s the guy
that catches that snap from the center. He ei-
ther runs, throws, or hands off the ball.
Offensive guard: A blocker, positioned on
either side of the center.
Offensive tackle: A blocker, positioned on
either side of the guards.
Tight end: Plays next to the tackle. Hybrid
player—used as a blocker or wide receiver
Wide receiver: Receives a pass down the
field.
Running back: Runs the ball down the field.
Fullback: Does everything! Runs, blocks, AND
they receives. (Talented guys aren't they?)
Defense Nose guard: Positioned across from offensive
team’s center and blocks plays down the center
of the field.
Defensive tackle: Rushes the passer.
Defensive end: Blocks plays on the outside
edges.
Linebacker: Covers the receivers and rushes
the passers .
Cornerback:: Blocks the wide receivers.
Safety: The defensive team’s last line of de-
fense! There are usually two safeties: Strong safety: He is the stronger of the two and
blocks runs. Free safety: He is the faster of the two and he
blocks passes.
Special teams Used on kicking plays, this team comes out to
kick, punt, get extra points, field goals, etc.
Overloaded? There is so much to the exciting word of foot-
ball that we couldn’t fit it all on these pages but
Xii Magazine hopes that you will be able to use
this as a foundational reference to follow along,
cheer, and celebrate with our KC Chiefs
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#12MAG | FAMILY PHOTO
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B ack in it’s hey day, KC was IT! 12th St to the 18th & Vine District were known worldwide-music,
business, nightlife. This is our tribute to what KC was,
can and will be...As a magazine, we’ll cover it. As a
movement, we’ll create it. TWELVE.
Photo, Raye Jackson
28
twelvekc.com
KC’s Own
29
LeAndrea Mack
Eric Harland, photo
WRITE It
30
TED CREWS VP of Communications
KC Chiefs
THE EXEC SUITE
31
ne day I’ll make it to the NFL. It’s a dream among many. Though it
means jerseys for some, it trans-lates suits for others.
There’s a reason we know the Chiefs so
well: Ted Crews. As Vice President of Communications, he leads the office respon-
sible for coordinating the communications from public relations to media, locally and
nationally for the Chiefs. His communica-tions responsibility extends beyond the play-
ers to all organizational and Arrowhead needs. He’s well-seasoned with 16 years of
experience under his belt having served the St. Louis Rams, Atlanta Falcons, and Carolina Panthers. He’s been selected by the NFL to
direct publicity for the Pro Bowl, in Hono-
lulu on five separate occasions and even worked the Super Bowl in 2010 and 2011.
Is your job challenging? “You’ve got a 53
man roster, 20 other personnel, coaches, owners and media to work with and you
have to help blend those separate personali-ties and understand everyone to do your
job. There are challenges, but I enjoy it.”
Getting into the Big Leagues. A corporate position in the NFL is a prize.
“I’m extremely blessed. I get that there are only 31 other people that have my job. I
never lose sight of that.” Crews found his way into this elite fraternity through a solid education from HBCU, South Carolina State
University, and choice summer internships.
What does it take to survive on this level?
“You have to be an effective communicator and if you can’t write, you won’t make it.
That’s the foundation.” A solid education boosts your potential, but Crews believes to
really thrive, you must possess a certain natural talent. “There’s an innate part of
this. The ability to react to people and situa-tions, to be able to script for people and
situations when needed.
Be forewarned that this job never stops. Sure, Chiefs have an off season, but Crews
must manage year-round. “There are early
mornings and late nights. Free agency to OTAs. I work Thanksgiving Day, Christmas
Day. My family knows on those days, we’re going to eat a little later. I also travel with
the team.
Though Crews has spent time with a variety of Clubs, he thinks the Chiefs organization is
special. “We’re at a club that’s a charter franchise member of the league. So when
you have that, you know you’re with a proven brand. You’ve got the Clark family
that has a true passion for this city and team. Mark Donavan and the office staff are sec-
ond to none. Andy Reid is a proven head coach and first class. Even more, the Chiefs organization has a true commitment to com-
munity. I can only say, it’s a great place to be and a great time to be here.”
O
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“At this time, we ask that you return your trays to the upright position to prepare for landing. Whether business or pleas-ure, we hope you enjoy your stay in Germany.” Just when you thought TWELVE was about Kansas City, we’ve got to go where the passport takes us and we caught up with Brian “BK” Kennedy, across the seas. Brian Kennedy’s name quickly rises to the top among en-tertainment aficionados and industry professionals when you rank the most impressive in music today. And for those who don’t know the name, you’re familiar with his work. He’s a superstar producer having worked with the likes of Ciara, Brandy, Chris Brown, Jesse McCartney, Rihanna, Natasha Bedingfield, BoA, Cheryl Cole, Backstreet Boys, Jamie Foxx, Nelly, Westlife, Joe Jonas, Kelly Clarkson, and Rascal Flatts. With a catalog of music in pop, rock, and country genres, it’s difficult to categorize him or his style. “My style is kind of electronic contemporary, world” he says. But who really needs a genre classification when you’ve got results? BK’s work has garnered him two Grammy awards. Chances are, you’ve danced to his chart-topping hits like "Disturbia" by Rihanna on the "Good Girl Gone Bad: Reloaded" album, or grooved to "Forever," from Chris Brown’s "Exclusive: The Forever Edition" album. He earned his first Grammy in 2009 for his contribution to Oscar winner Jennifer Hudson's self-titled debut album, which earned honors such as Best R&B Album. He’s now working with Cee-Lo, and new artists 2 B 1 and even has his own new project in the works, Digital Love Affair. Most would retire satisfied with such a stellar career. But for Brian, his current success is just the beginning. He continues to evolve. His growth is about diversification. It’s about building an enterprise – no – a brand. “I’m working on taking my ca-reer to the next level, having that Steve Jobs vision.” He says his current success is not even half of what’s in store. He’s building a brand known for talent and success. He founded a publishing company, Team BK. Part of that company includes writers like Dewain Whitmore. “Dewain is one of the top five writers out right now”, says Kennedy. BK is also a real estate owner with his own studio, the Ken-nedy Compound, and leases studio space to the likes of other superstars, like Cee-Lo and Kanye. His name will be synonymous with legends among the annals of music his-tory. If you’ve seen him play, there’s no doubt about what he can create, and thereby, achieve. People like BK estab-lish new boundaries. His passion is about delivering a unique musical experience that stands the test of time. As he describes it, he wants to “mimic the genius” of the greats. It’s even more impressive that he’s not selfish. His
ambition is balanced with character. He wants others to experience success and be an inspiration to those signed to his enterprises and artists worldwide. He’s already launched his “You can do it Too” education series with workshops on the music business and offers his time and expertise for free. His music and praises will be sung for generations. His suc-cess will be a guide book. His travels…well, they will be unceasing and as fellow Kansas Citians, we can always be proud to have been part of the flight.
BK Worldwide
33
Brian Kennedy The Places He’s Been.
The Heights He’ll Achieve.
Watch...No Listen.
34
Sarah Fletcher
CREATE It
35
Shemeka Cockrem
STYLE It
36
By Randi McCreary | Photo: Raye Jackson
ill Shields was known in the NFL as the man
who knew how to outsmart his opponent
like no other. It was not a skill simply ac-
quired on the football field, but an early
understanding that the best games are played with a
strategy. As a player, Shields was strategic, not relying
solely on his physical strength to make things happen,
but also his knowledge and tactical planning.
There is no argument that Shields has a strong, physical
presence, but that isn’t what defines him. “I don’t bench
press 1000 pounds,” Shields admits, ”but when you aren’t
physically gifted, you have to find the intellectual strengths.
The right angles. Physical or mental.”
Shields, an offensive right guard for The Kansas City
Chiefs and twelve-time Pro-Bowler, has seen his share
Will Shields Giving Back
W
37
of reward and success in the NFL. The former right
guard graced the field for a total of two hundred and
forty games. But, a player’s success doesn’t necessarily
have to end when he leaves the professional field. For
Shields, the same passion and drive that it took in the
game, is what it takes to make a meaningful transition
into the next chapter of life.
After leaving the NFL, Shields wanted to continue serv-
ing the community. Already having spent years working
with various charitable founda3.25tions such as The Will
To Succeed Foundation, he knew that there was a need as
(Continued on page 40)
38
Christopher White
STYLE It
39
Gary Mitchell
PROMOTE It
40
Read It.
Wear It.
Dream It.
a father himself, to have a place where his own
children could stay in shape and have fun.
“ I liked the challenge of being on field. Testing
myself,” says Shields. “ I wanted to give others a
chance to bridge together and make things happen.
Give that gift of opportunity to the kids.”
During his thirteen year span playing for The
Kansas City Chiefs, Will Shields made a recog-
nizable name for himself. Today, his goal is to
create an atmosphere that brings athletes to-
gether for a place to embrace health, family and
fitness. For the youth, it was important to give
back. For the community, it was a place that
made it possible to stay in tune with their bod-
ies and minds. This is how 68 Inside Sports be-
came what it is today.
68 Inside Sports, located in Overland Park, Kan-
sas, offers itself to the community as a fitness
and training facility with over fifty classes. From
yoga, pilates, and tai chi to private kick boxing
lessons with a personal trainer, there is some-
thing for everyone.
(Continued from page 37) “It really began with three dads wanting their kids
to have a place to play ball,” he explains. “This is
not just for athletes. It is for all walks of life. Every-
one should be strong. It’s in our innate ability to
become strong. Mental and physical strength offer
different outlets.”
When asked what legacy he would like to be
remembered for, Shields reflected on what it
means to see struggle and help where you can.
“I build on my legacy every year. Now that I’m re-
tired, the philanthropy is having passion and a goal
to help others. The legacy is everything you’ve done,
and you keep building on it.”
With that in mind, Shields continues to build on
new strategies. He would like to expand 68
Inside Sports in the future to four new quad-
rants; acting as smaller versions of the original
facility.
Will Shields had some of his most memorable
moments on the field as a Kansas City Chief,
but proves that beyond your best accomplish-
ments, are still more waiting to be discovered.
Dexter McCluster,
training off-season at
68 Sports with Will Shields
Hands-on training
41
magazine
42
HUDSON & JANE
Velvet Blazer, Pants,
Shirts, and Pocket Square.
BANANA REPUBLIC
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Kansas City’s Barbers and Stylists Keep KC Looking Their Very Best.
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Judah Fitness, LLC
Amber D. Smith
Owner & Zumba In-
structor
816.974.7107
Twitter: @judahfitness Facebook:
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Tovah's Therapeutic Bodywork
Located in the Heart of Westport
4010 Washington St., Ste 110
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Trilogy Sports & Fitness, Inc. is dedi-
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both personal fitness needs and/or
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Aisha Ogletree
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The Annex by AO
236 NE Chipman Rd
Lee’s Summit, Missouri 64063
816.525.4247
Hot Spot GUIDE Arica Lynn
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Salon TCB
4405 E. Blue Parkway
Kansas City, Missouri 64130
816.382.8257
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Champu Hair Design
Keara Austin
313 SE DOUGLAS
Lees Summit, Missouri 64063
816.213.9380
816.246.5533
champuhair.com
Draque's Barbershop
Kansas City's Premier Barbershop
Draque Murff
106 ½ W. 39th St.
Kansas City, MO 64111
913.375.7311
Like us on Facebook
Headz-Up Beauty & Barber
Supply
Now with a full-service Salon.
Delivery Available in KC, Raytown &
Surrounding Areas
816.313.5284
6233 Blue Ridge Blvd
Raytown, MO 64133
JoeyCuts.com
Kansas City's very own Award Win-
ning beauty and barber salon.
1805 Vine St.
Kansas City, MO 64108
816.309.9411
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ment Group
Pageant and runway train-
ing, portfolio building, elegance, and
etiquette training, modeling work-
shops and much more.
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Chinda's "YOU" Nique
Jewelry & Boutique
Jewelry designed especially for the
Unique "You"
Rochinda Chism
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816.924.2675
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Jewelry & Accessories
Lesa Montgomery
816.313.5344
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Raytown, MO 64133
Hand Bags and Accessories
lesasexquisitepieces.bigcartel.com
MAC Salon
Terra Merriwether
Body, Face & Brazilian
Wax Ser- vices; Nova Lash, Make
-Up Services
202 Admiral Blvd and Grand
816.813.5667 Mobile
816.926.9706 Salon
Nails & More Just for You
Audrey Cutts
Master Nail Artist/Technician
Located Inside
Headz-Up Barber & Beauty Supply
6233 Blue Ridge Blvd
Raytown, MO 64133
facebook: nails&more "justforyou"
Isaac Cates and
Ordained Gospel
Ensemble
A gospel ensemble for
hire. Our music is played on KPRS
and 1590 "STRONGTOWER"
Contact: Kendon McClaine
816.896.8317
www.isaaccatesmusic.com
Midwest Spartans
The new youth football and cheer
organization making strides in Kan-
sas City! They are a not-for-profit
organization dedicated to providing
organized competitions in a safe
environment.
SPONSORS NEEDED
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(816)986.0729
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Ages 4-14
Neo Natural Soul
Want to mingle? Neo Natural Soul
is a re-occurring natural hair social
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Performance Packag-
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FASHION
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56
2013 Family Day at Chiefs
Training Camp at MO Western
State University in St. Jo-
seph,MO.
57
58
59
60
R
E
A
D
Y
TWELVE MAGAZINE issue preview event, #READY, September 6th, at the Ambassador Hotel,
featuring the Kansas City Chiefs-former and current players. (l. To r. Nate Eachus #45; Dwayne Bowe
#82; artist, Stefan Jones; Dexter McCluster #22; Sean Smith #27; Samie Parker #18)
61
Some of the ladies of TWELVE MAGAZINE
62
#READY | 9.6.13 | TWELVEKC.COM [continued]
63
R
E
A
D
Y
64
Coach Smith
Kolby Smith Still in the Game
Words, Iman Lott
Photo, H. Ervin
TWELVEKC.COM
65
alented, young hopefuls have less than a one percent chance of making it to the NFL.
Kolby Smith beat the odds. In 2007, he was drafted by the Kansas City Chiefs in the 5th round.“I liked the organization. If I wasn’t hurt, I believe I would still be in Kansas City as a starter”. The average length of the NFL career is about three and a half seasons. Players leave the game because of injury, voluntary retirement, or after being cut by the team. In the summer of 2010 Kansas City released Smith due to injuries. “I stopped playing because of a torn quad and a torn ankle ligament. With these injuries, I can’t perform at the level the NFL re-quires you to play, to be successful. I was tired of being hurt and ending each year on crutches”. Injuries like these might end most players’ careers,
(Continued on page 67)
Over 1 million people
every year set their sights
on becoming an NFL
player, however, only a fraction
of them will make the cut. “Statistically of the 100,000
high school seniors who play
football every year, only 215 will
ever make an NFL roster. Of
the 9,000 players that make it
to the college level only 310 are
invited to the NFL scouting
combine, the pool from which
teams make their draft picks”.
(NFL Hopefuls, 2013)
T
Kolby Smith, training the next generation.
66
September The Tallest Tree In the Forest Event type: Play Venue: Copaken Stage 13th & Walnut, KCMO Kcrep.org Sat 9/21 Niles Homecoming Through The Decades Event type: Fundraiser Venue: Arrowhead Stadium: 1 Arrow-
head Drive Kansas City MO Time: 7:00 PM - 11:00 PM Producer: Niles Home for Children Contact: Margaret Climie Email:
[email protected] Phone: 816-241-3448 Web: www.nileshomekc.org Sat 09/28 Women of Worth (WOW) Conference Event type: Conference Venue: Kauffman Foundation Confer-ence Center: 4801 Rockhill Rd Kansas
City MO Time: 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM Producer: Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority,
Inc., Xi Tau Omega Chapter & Con Contact: AKA - Xi Tau Omega Chapter
Email: [email protected] Fri 10/04 14th Annual WINNING WAYS Event type: Forum/symposium Venue: Gem Theater, Kansas City MO Time: 5:30 PM - 8:30 PM Producer: HGE Fri 10/25 Ruby Red Slippers Gala Event type: Community Action Venue: Grand Street Cafe: 4740 Grand
Ave Kansas City MO Time: 6:00 PM - 11:00 PM Producer: R.U.B.I.E.S., Inc. Contact: Chantell Garrett Email: [email protected] Phone: 816.607.1031 Web: www.rubiesinc.org Sat 10/26 ICE SCREAM 2 Event type: Party Venue: Uptown Theater: 3700 Broadway
Kansas City MO Time: 8:00 PM - 1:30 AM
Contact: Email: Phone: 816-921-6161 Icescream2.kcsoul.com Sat 11/09 New Dinner Theatre - Never Too Late Event type: Comedy Venue: New Theatre Restaurant: 9229
Foster Overland Park KS Time: 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM Contact: Tracy Ivy Owens Email: [email protected] Phone: Sat 12/14 A DEBONAIR AFFAIR Event type: Fundraiser Venue: Holiday Inn CoCo Keys: Kansas
City MO Time: 6:00 PM - 11:30 PM Producer: KTK Just for You Events for
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. Contact: Charles Lambert Email: [email protected] Phone:
kcsoul.com KCs Urban Source. Add Your Events!
Add your upcoming events and more to kcsoul.com. Just create a login or use your Facebook log-in.
Alpha Phi Alpha on the scene at Xii Magazine’s event, #READY, 9.6.13, at the Ambassador Hotel. They’ve
got a BIG plans for KC. Visit kcsoul.com for all the haps. You don’t want to miss this.
Photo Eric Harland
67
but Smith’s is just getting started. In 2012 he was asked by the University of Arkansas’, then head coach, Bobby Petrino, to be the assistant strength and conditioning coach. “Coaching was never a plan but sometimes God see’s things differently”. Petrino was released from the coaching staff at UA and moved on to be the head coach at Western Kentucky in December of the same year, eventually asking Smith to join him as his running back coach.“He gave me a chance to continue my career in foot-ball on a collegiate level. He offered me a scholarship. He made me a better student and player and now I’m coaching because of him. I know he will make me a better coach”. When asked whether he likes playing or coaching, more, Smith had this to say, “I enjoy playing the game and nothing will ever compare to that, however, what I like most about coaching is helping men excel
(Continued from page 65) as players and as human beings. I enjoy giving back and sharing what was once given to me.” Recently married, Smith and his wife still visit Kansas City at least three times a year to see friends and family.“Kansas City is a sec-ond home to me. I always go back”. The former Chiefs player says he also plans to see a few games on his visits since his protégé, Niles Davis, has recently joined the club as a running back. “I coached him down in Arkansas. I think he will be a good addition to the team and help the Chiefs do well this season. The new coaching staffs are proven winners and players do well under that type of leader-ship”. Looking toward the future, Smith says his ulti-mate goal is to be commissioner of an ath-letic conference or athletic director of a Uni-versity.
68
wayne Bowe realizes he didn’t make it to the top on his own. His grandpar-ents had a lot to do with it. He’s now working to pro-
vide support through his foundation. The Dwayne Bowe Foundation, a chari-table organization located in Kansas City, MO serves as a support system for grandparents raising grandchildren. The foundation will raffle off a specially cus-tomized Dodge Charger granted by Dwayne Bowe in effort to raise funds and awareness for his charity. This raffle started July 2013 and will run through December 2013. The mission of the Dwayne Bowe Foun-dation is to provide support services to preserve the well being of families where the children are being raised by
(Continued on page 70)
Dwayne Bowe Helping Kids Get
The Family Support
They Need!
D
Photo: Justin Olson WPI
69
Enter the raffle to win Dwayne Bowe’s customized Dodge Charger while supporting his foundation.
70
What caused you to start the foundation?
I was raised by my grandparents and I
found away to take the negatives and turn them
into positives. My grandparents were huge influ-
ences throughout my life and such a strong support
system. I want children who are raised by their
grandparents to see that they can overcome the
negatives and achieve all their dreams and aspira-
tions.
What do you think the role of a grandparent is,
even for those who have parents?
I think a major role of a grandparent is to
instill love and values to their grandchildren.
Grandparents have a unique way of showing us
love and always seem to know the right things to
say without saying much at all.
What's the best piece of advice you received from
a grandparent?
The best advice I received was from my
grandfather. He told me the smallest things make
a BIG difference. Keep doing the little things by
respecting your elders and keep your trust in GOD.
Where were you raised--city/state?
Miami, Fl
How often do you talk to your grandparents?
I talk to my grandma more than once a
day...always the first person I call on my way to
work and the last person I call before I lay my
head down.
How will funds be used for the foundation?
In order to qualify for funds, families
must consist of at least one grandparent raising a
grandchild with low or restricted income levels.
The application must be completed by caregiver
and assistance will be based on individual needs
after board review.
GRANDPARENTS RAISING GRANDCHILDREN their grandparents. DBowe gave us some background on this en-deavor:
(Continued from page 68)
The winner of DBowe’s Dodge Charger raf-
fle will be announced December 20,2013 at
the Dwayne Bowe First Annual Reception
hosted by Molle Audi located Kansas City,
MO. This will be a ticketed event open to
the public where they see Dwayne and his
grandmother as they reminisce over his
childhood and why he has dedicated himself
to this purposeful foundation.
For more event details, visit the website
www.db82.org
71
72
t the opening of the NFL pre-season, I met with Samie Parker at a sports bar where a commercial advertising the first pre-season game aired on the 70-
inch TV screen in front of us. His in-stant interest and focus on the commercial was proof of his continued love for the game of foot-
ball. Samie Parker was a 4th round draft pick out of the
University of Oregon and joined the Kansas City Chiefs in 2004. He says, “I was loved and accepted from the first day I came to Kansas City. The team was very family-oriented and we spent a lot of time
together on and off the field. I think this was how we were able to win a lot of games. We just understood
each other.”
After his last season with the Chiefs in 2007, he remained in the NFL as a free agent with the Den-
ver Broncos, Oakland Raiders, Seattle Seahawks and a quick stint with the Carolina Panthers. He found a home with the Las Vegas Locomotives, part of the United Football League (UFL), for 4 years where he
won 2 championships. He also played in the Arena Football League (AFL) with the Chicago Rush and Kansas City Commands.
Samie Parker admits, “I love to compete against other great athletes from around the world and being able to work with others to achieve one common
goal…WINNING!” At 32, Samie Parker’s passion for football has car-ried him to endeavors beyond the field and has
paved the way for a promising future. Today, one of his newest endeavors includes football, but he’s
not competing on a field. Parker was cast as the
stunt double for Morris Chestnut’s football scenes in the upcoming sequel, The Best Man Holiday, scheduled for release on November 15 of this
Samie Parker
Still The Best Man A
TWELVEKC.COM
73
year. He stated ex-
citedly, “I got a chance to interact with all the male
cast members in-cluding a lot of in-teraction with Mor-ris since I was play-
ing him in the foot-ball role. They were all great, down to
earth people and it was a great experi-
ence!”
Parker has also worked with USA Network’s hit show
Necessary Roughness for an episode that aired August 21,
2013. In addition to work
in Hollywood, he is
currently discussing a coaching position with the newly
formed National Spring Football League (NSPF), a league of
professional players who will begin play-ing in Spring 2014.
For Parker, this is a huge stepping stone
to achieve his ulti-
mate goal of being a NFL or CFL coach. Currently residing in
the Kansas City area, he is excited to see what Andy Reid will
do as the head coach of the Kansas City Chiefs. With his ex-
perience, passion and
love for the game, we’re sure to see Samie soon coaching
his own team. All the best, Coach Parker.
“I got a chance to
interact with all
the male cast
members includ-
ing a lot of inter-
action with Mor-
ris since I was
playing him in the
football role. They
were all great,
down to earth
people and it was
a great experi-
ence!”
Morris Chestnut and Samie Parker on the set of The Best
Man Holiday.
Samie, with more of the cast including Terrence Howard.
74
READY
TWELVEKC.COM
75
I know what you’re wondering...and the answer is Yes. It IS that serious. What we do is really not a game. We don’t mind having fun,
but we’re here to work and we do it well. 100 Years and counting, there’s
really nothing left to prove. Don’t mind if you tell someone, cause it’s REDZ
against...whoever, whatever and whenever. Yeah, “WE #READY”
Thanks to KCMO Alumnae Chapter of
Delta Sigma Theta, Sorority, Inc.
Photo, AEH Photography
76
he venerable qualities of cheerleading
aren’t the focus of traditionally stereo-
typical portrayals, but the world of
cheerleading is brimming with character-building,
life-enhancing experiences.
As a member of the Junior Chiefs Cheerleaders, 7
year old Aubree Herron says she “laughs, learns, and
has made new friends.”
This non-competitive and self-esteem building pro-
gram is taught by the Kansas City Chiefs Cheer-
leaders and is available for girls ages 6-12. In addi-
tion to the Junior squad, they also have a Teen squad
for ages 13-17 and even an Angel squad for little
girls ages 3-5.
The program offers a rare opportunity for young
girls to perform during a halftime show for over
78,000 Kansas City Chiefs fans at Arrowhead Stadium.
T
Aubree Herron, one of Kansas City’s
Youth Benefitting from Cheerleading
TWELVEKC.COM
77
This year they are scheduled to perform at the
October 27th game when the Chiefs beat the Cleve-
land Browns.
The self-esteem boosting power of cheerleading
can play a major role in how your child interacts
and relates to others and her surroundings. Team-
building exercises and lessons on how to encour-
age others, as well as themselves, build strong and
confident individuals. Pairing the training with the
excitement of cheerleading helps cement these
lessons into lifelong character traits.
Cj Nash, co-owner of Nash Jem Elite All Stars,
agrees that cheerleading helps raise self-esteem,
self-discipline, and self-worth. In October of 2000,
Nash along with her sister Jamishia Miller opened
the doors to a primarily African-American all-star
gym. Striving to make a difference in their commu-
nity and to build up future leaders, they empower
and encourage girls through competitive cheerlead-
ing. Nash Jem grooms and trains their cheerleaders
at a caliber that has afforded opportunities for their
students to compete at the collegiate and profes-
sional levels.
Nash says, “We started with 18 members and today
have over 150 athletes from ages 3 to 18 years old
with eight competitive and two non-competitive teams.
We coach athletes in tumbling, stunts and cheer from
basic level 1 up through advanced level 5.”
Nash Jem is one of the only predominantly African-
American gyms in the region and last year won a
host of competitions including the Live Champions,
America Best Champions, and JamFest Cheer Super
Nationals.
Cheerleading has become an avenue through which
we cultivate new leaders. It is a sport that can be
leveraged to build your child’s self-esteem, confi-
dence, discipline, and respect. We congratulate
these organizations on their efforts to groom our
leaders of tomorrow.
Nash Jem Elite All Stars, Champion Cheerleaders
78
SCENE
Photos: JW Edwards
Thursday, August 15th, the Greater
KC Chapter of the Links, Inc.
hosted a pre-screening of the new
movie, The Butler, as a scholarship
fundraiser.
Movie critic, Shawn Edwards and U.S. Congressman Emanuel Cleaver, II
Tammy Edwards, President of The Greater KC Links, Inc.
79
SCENE
80
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