FoundersLydia Marie King and Kevin King

EDITOR IN CHIEFLydia King

MANAGING EDITOR

Kevin KingAssignment Editor(Atlanta Office)

Keith KingAssignment Editor(Mpls Office)

Matthew Fleegel

International Correspondent Maurice Hoover(Germany)Sohaib Siddique( London)

Assistant EditorKaren J. Larson and Meghan Stein

Project ManagerDerrick Parker

Assitant Project ManagerEberi Mancini- Cruz

DIGITAL CONTENT AND ART DESIGNKevin King Donna Osborn Clark

CORPORATE BRANDING AND STRATEGYLydia King and Kevin King

Ad Sales ManagersLydia King

Derrick ParkerBrooklyn Saunders

Public RelationsElectric Heart Media

STAFF REPORTERS & NEWS CORRESPONDENTSLydia Marie King

Keith KingMathew Fleegel

Brooklyn SaundersKaren Larson

Junior ReportersHaley Smillow

Just JustinChristian Lee

UniqueFranky D

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Keith Murphy, Angel Richards,Mike Smoove, Sharon Fox,

Preston Stockert, George Aja,Nicolas Smith. Keith KingTyra Herandez, Rickey Young, Andrea Ashmore

Meghan Stein. Lady Williams, Danielle Svobodny

PHOTOGRAPHERS & VIDEOGRAPHERSKevin King, Mathew Fleegel. Keynon Starks

Lydia King, David Booker, Just Justin, Keith KingChris Holden

CONTENT

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Mission StatementFounded in 1926, the mission of the Minneapolis Urban League is to link African descendants and other people of color to opportuni-ties that result in economic success and prosperity, and effectively advocate for policies that eradicate racial disparities.

Who We AreThe Minneapolis Urban League, a community-based nonprofit or-ganization, is embarking on historic change as the Urban League movement reaches its 100th anniversary. For a century, the Urban League has played a role in the great transitions in our country. We have moved from survival to civil rights to national office. To-day, the Minneapolis Urban League, which was founded in 1926, is one of the top ten affiliates of the National Urban League based in New York, NY.

Despite this progress, we can see that the fundamental struggle remains for many people. Each year, we provide direct service for nearly 4,000 people and 20,000 more look to us to for public advocacy. At the 100 year mark, we are staking a claim to building the human and material infrastructure of the community of people of African descent in Minnesota.

Our mission is to reestablish the Juneteeth film festival under the heading of The Juneteenth Film Initiative (JFI). The JFI’s focus will be on youth, art, empowerment, and cultural support. We will pursue these opportunities while

working alongside the Minneap-olis Juneteenth Festival to create a powerful weekend of commu-nity and film which educates and celebrates diversity and freedom in filmmaking. In order to rees-tablish the film festival under the new name, The Juneteenth Film

Initiative, will work with the leaders of both the Juneteenth committee and the film festival making sure to uphold the high standards that have been set before us. Our goal, also, is to garner films that portray the above focus and reflect the action and causes of the current times while not forgetting our rich history.

Juneteenth Film InitiativeMinneapolis Urban League

www.juneteenthfilminitiative.org/

Alaina L. Lewis/ Dir. of Acquisitions

1 love 1 Mission

Toy JamesFounder / Executive DirectorInspirations for Women, Inc.Visionary of LIVE Suicide & De-pression Campaign

Cities Best Looking Sounds!

B M A D I G I TA L C H A N N E L 9 3 7 - M I N N E A P O L I S / S T. PA U L , M NBMA Digital Channel 946 - L O N G B E A C H , C A

E N T E R TA I N M E N T C H A N N E L S

A D i v i s i o n o f T h e U r b a n M a s s M e d i a G r o u p

http://www.bachelorboyent.com

WELCOME

http://www.thepartier.com

WELCOME

Since 1932 the International Institute of Minnesota has sponsored the Festival of Nations held annually at the Saint Paul Rivercenter. The Festival itself is a celebration of the unique aspects of different cultures, as well as the behaviors that unite us as people.

The Festival featured cuisine, ethnic dancing, exhibitions, and demonstrations from the various countries. The performers, chefs, and many of the shopkeepers adorned the clothing of their cultural heritage throughout the event creating a massive collage of colors and faces. Smiling and dancing, eating and singing, all while listening to the music coming from one of the

three entertainment stages that spanned two levels of the Rivercenter.

The Festival of Nations is the longest running multi-cultural annual event held in Minnesota, and is on Discover America’s list as “…one of the top 200 events in America.”

Their mission: “Helping New Americans achieve self-sufficiency and full membership in American life.”

Their vision: “We seek a community where New Americans can find respect, support, and safety, and where they can achieve their full potential in their new lives.”

It’s this unifying spirit, as well as the fact that the event is open to the public, that makes the Festival of Nations truly an inspiring event. In addition to the exhibitions, there was a multitude of shops containing many handcrafted items created by the various cultures in attendance.

The folk art demonstrations covered a variety of topics and crafts. Whether learning American Indian silversmithing, trying on a Japanese Kimono, practicing Ghanaian hair braiding, observing Ukrainian egg decorating, or receiving an Indian henna tattoo, becoming immersed in foreign life without leaving home has never been easier.If you aren’t one for dancing, learning, or listening to music from around the globe…there is still a place for you at the festival, it’s called the Ethnic Café. The Café features food and drink items from more than 37 countries. From Danish

TRU. Diversity

BY: Matthew Fleegel

aebleskiver (pancake balls), to Nepalese kokhura ko masu (chicken curry), or maybe a Greek gyro with a Columbian empanada. There is definitely some-thing for everyone.

For desert there were more pastries and chocolate treats than one person could possibly have in one trip. French strawberry tarts, Polish cheesecake, Dutch moorkoppen (cream puffs), African chocolate chunk cookies, Filipino sagoc (tapioca pearls with strawberries), Italian tiramisu, and much more.

To wash it all down the festival contains a plethora of beverages from all over the globe. Cambodian coconut juice seemed to be pretty popular, as was the Tibetan Jha (spiced tea). Swiss hot chocolate is always a safe bet, and those looking to try something new might enjoy an Egyptian hibiscus tea, or a Pakistani mango shake.

The musical acts featured a barrage of different instruments, and many talented performers skilled in their use gave them life. The waves of people cascading through the venue created an ever changing dynamic were people allowed them-selves to relax and take pride in their heritage while simultane-ously absorbing the culture of others.

One of the two headlining musical performances featured the elegant and intricate oud strumming of Rahim Alhaj. Born in Baghdad, Iraq, he started learning the oud at the age of nine. During his youth his studied with oud mas-ter Munir Bashir at the Institute of Music in Baghdad.

Rahim Alhaj graduated in 1990, and in addition earned a degree in Arabic Literature from Mustunsariva University in Baghdad. He was exiled from Iraq in 1991 as a result of playing an activist role against the Saddam Hussein regime, and spent most of the next decade in Jordan and Syria.

In 2000 Rahim Alhaj moved to Albuquerque, NM as a political refugee and he has resided in the United States ever since. He became an official US Citizen in 2008, and has attained many awards and nominations including two Grammy nominations.

The time spent honing his craft and the elaborate nature of his compositions show to prove that Rahim Alhaj’s dedication to his music is profound. That dedication was evident during his performance at this year’s Festival of Na-tions, and it was an honor being able to listen.

During an interview with the Institute for Cultural Diplomacy Rahim Alhaj was asked about the connection between his music and his politics as it related to his exile from Iraq.

“The minute I started thinking about justice I found my instrument was a way to speak out. I let my music be heard for a lot of people and be their voice because, we lived in a dictatorship. It was really hard to speak out…So we would basically compose music or some songs that would criticize

the government, but not directly. That way the people could listen to it and interpret the songs to the correct time, and without saying anything to directly criticize the regime at that time.So, it was a great tool, a great voice, for speaking out and criticizing the environment of that time. So I let it be, I felt like now I had a voice. I could send it to a lot of people and let people understand how miserable and how horrible this war was and that it was not really justified. And

that it was just killing us, just taking all our energy away from us…” Rahim Alhaj

In addition to the dreamscape melodies of Mr. Alhaj, the Festival of Nations also featured an energetic show from the Sierra Leone’s Refugee All Stars. Their album “Radio Salone” was just named World Album of the Year by the CBC, and after watching them excite the crowd at the festival I understand why.

The Sierra Leone’s Refugee All Stars were born out of strife. Living in Sierra Leone during and after the horrific civil war that cost the lives of more than 200,000 between 1991 and 2002, the All Stars use soul to elevate their sound, and hope to fight against the oppressors.

The members had known each other prior, but came together at Kalia Refugee Camp in1997 after fleeing the capitol city of Freetown as a result of rebel attacks. Knowing that they shared musical inclinations, Ruben Koroma (vocals), Idrissa Bangura (bass), and Francis John Langba (guitar), took it upon them-selves to rise above their situation and create joy by entertaining the other individuals living in the refugee camp.

After a donation of some outdated instruments and equipment from a Canadian relief agency, the All Stars were able to create a new passionate sound intended to inspire hope, and encourage perseverance.

Following an encounter with American filmmakers Zach Niles and Banker White in the Sembakounya Camp, the All Stars became a three year project for the filmmakers as they directed the focus of their documentary to this group of musicians traveling from one refugee camp to the next spreading a message of joy and hope.

After the documentary entitled simply, “Sierra Leone’s Refugee All Stars” came out in 2006, the band found a larger fan-base and a new mission. In addition to raising morale of the ones who are suffering, the band chose to make a point

to raise awareness about social and political injustice in their homeland and throughout the world while maintaining a positive outlook, an upbeat sound, and a reverence for the gift of life.

During the documentary Ruben Koroma was asked by the documentarian how the band came about, their return to Sierra Leone in 2002, and what their music represented.

“Some people got courage, and we in particular got courage. Because in a refugee camp there’s nothing to do, so at least we could sit together and meditate. We sing and we practice and we make songs there.”

“We didn’t know what to expect when we arrived in the country to tell the truth. But we found that the country in lively. We see that home is still home.”Ruben Koroma

Niko, one of the percussionists made a statement which clarifies the mission of Sierra Leone’s Refugee All Stars.

“I don’t joke with my instrument. I will never forget my pen(instrument). These are my pen (holds up drum-sticks), the key to heaven. You cannot compare this with a gun. This cannot kill, it can make you happy. When I play with it, you love it, and then you love me too.”Niko

It makes no difference whether playing in front of tens, or tens of thousands, Sierra Leone’s Refugee All Stars want to emphasize that just because life is difficult, and full of strife, doesn’t mean that each breath isn’t a blessing.

That’s the story here at the International Institute of Minnesota’s Festival of Nations, where once a year cultures gather to celebrate life, diversity, some pretty amazing food, and the multiple talents we as a globe have to offer.

…And that’s the Tru.th

to raise awareness about social and political injustice in their homeland and throughout the world while maintaining a positive outlook, an upbeat sound, and a reverence for the gift of life.

During the documentary Ruben Koroma was asked by the documentarian how the band came about, their return to Sierra Leone in 2002, and what their music represented.

“Some people got courage, and we in particular got courage. Because in a refugee camp there’s nothing to do, so at least we could sit together and meditate. We sing and we practice and we make songs there.”

“We didn’t know what to expect when we arrived in the country to tell the truth. But we found that the country in lively. We see that home is still home.”Ruben Koroma

Niko, one of the percussionists made a statement which clarifies the mission of Sierra Leone’s Refugee All Stars.

“I don’t joke with my instrument. I will never forget my pen(instrument). These are my pen (holds up drum-sticks), the key to heaven. You cannot compare this with a gun. This cannot kill, it can make you happy. When I play with it, you love it, and then you love me too.”Niko

It makes no difference whether playing in front of tens, or tens of thousands, Sierra Leone’s Refugee All Stars want to emphasize that just because life is difficult, and full of strife, doesn’t mean that each breath isn’t a blessing.

That’s the story here at the International Institute of Minnesota’s Festival of Nations, where once a year cultures gather to celebrate life, diversity, some pretty amazing food, and the multiple talents we as a globe have to offer.

…And that’s the Tru.th

Run Away With MeRio de Janeiro, BrazilThere are very few “bucket list” places that I will travel to more than once due to having such a long list of exotic vacation locales to experience. I’ve been to Rio de Janeiro twice and plan to visit again soon due to the

breathtaking harbor, expansive beaches and local Brazilian flavor.

Aside from traveling the Pacific Coast Highway in California, I’ve never witnessed a more awe-inspiring natural sight than Rio’s beautIful harbor which includes Sugar Loaf and Corcovado peaks. Sightseeing in this large city of 6.3 million people offers something for everyone: the famous beaches of Copacabana and Impanema, Christ the Redeemer statue atop Corcovado mountain (a World Wonder), Sambodromo and Maracana Stadium (hosts for Carnival and soccer, respectively), Biblioteca Nacional (national library of Portugal), cable car rides through historic Santa There-sa, a tour of Beija Flor Samba’s storage of previous Carnival floats, nu-merous museums, theaters, churches and a botanical garden.

Portuguese is the spoken language in Brazil, and most people understand and speak Spanish, and some En-glish. The Real is the currency in Rio (currently one Real = .49 U.S. dollars), and bargains can be found in many street markets. Seafood, roasted meats and other Ca-rioca dishes made with black beans and rice are very good. My favorite meal is the shrimp risotto at Siri da Ilha, followed by coffee and desserts at Confertaria Columbo downtown, washed down with fruity caipirinhas, Brazil’s famous alcoholic beverage made with cachaca.

Nightlife in Rio offers all of the sights and sounds you can imagine! Quaint clubs in Santa Theresa, downtown, Leblon, or along the waterfront provide live music of Afro-Brazilian jazz, bossa nova, lambada, samba, rock, etc.You can learn the samba or sit back and watch the action. Crime is a reality in Rio, as in most large cities, so be very conscious of your wallet/purse, stay aware of groups of children/people, and don’t venture into favelas (crowded poor areas) without a guide or escort. But most-ly, enjoy all that this exciting and fun city offers!

By:Travel Coorespondant, Andrea Ashmore

Portuguese is the spoken language in Brazil, and most people understand and speak Spanish, and some En-glish. The Real is the currency in Rio (currently one Real = .49 U.S. dollars), and bargains can be found in many street markets. Seafood, roasted meats and other Ca-rioca dishes made with black beans and rice are very good. My favorite meal is the shrimp risotto at Siri da Ilha, followed by coffee and desserts at Confertaria Columbo downtown, washed down with fruity caipirinhas, Brazil’s famous alcoholic beverage made with cachaca.

Nightlife in Rio offers all of the sights and sounds you can imagine! Quaint clubs in Santa Theresa, downtown, Leblon, or along the waterfront provide live music of Afro-Brazilian jazz, bossa nova, lambada, samba, rock, etc.You can learn the samba or sit back and watch the action. Crime is a reality in Rio, as in most large cities, so be very conscious of your wallet/purse, stay aware of groups of children/people, and don’t venture into favelas (crowded poor areas) without a guide or escort. But most-ly, enjoy all that this exciting and fun city offers!

ORANGE VANILLA CHEESECAKE Crust Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups fresh graham cracker crumbs 1/3 cup sugar 1/3 cup melted butter

Filling Ingredients: 3 packages (24 ounces) Philly cream cheese, softened 1 1/4 cups sugar 2 tablespoons corn starch 4 eggs 8 ounces sour cream 2 tablespoons vanilla 2 egg yolks 1 tablespoon orange extract zest of 1 orange 3 drops red and 12 drops of yellow food coloring

To prepare crust, combine graham cracker crumbs and sugar in a bowl. Melt butter and stir thoroughly into crumb mixture.

Lightly grease a 9-inch spring-form pan with butter. Press crumbs into bottom of the spring-form pan, working them up the sides if desired (press with the bottom of a 1-cup measuring cup).

Bake crust at 325 degrees for 8-10 minutes. Cool completely.

Begin making the cheesecake filling by placing softened cream cheese into a large bowl. Using a wooden spoon, mix sugar and corn starch in a bowl and then add to cream cheese; stir until smooth. (You can also use an electric mixer on the lowest speed, but doing so will add extra air into the cheesecake and increase the chance of cracking during baking.)

Add 4 eggs one at a time to the filling mixture and stir, scraping down the sides after adding each egg.

Stir in sour cream.

Put two cups of cream cheese mixture into a second bowl.

In the original bowl, stir in vanilla and set aside.

In the second bowl, add 2 egg yolks, orange extract, orange zest, and the food colorings, and stir.

Using a 1-cup measure, pour mixtures into the center of the spring-form pan by alternating white and orange filling. (To create a “perfect” swirl, pour batter directly into the middle of the pan. Each additional pouring will form a new circle inside the last.)

If desired: When finished pouring fillings into the pan, very slightly swirl the top of the cake with a knife to achieve a gentle marbling effect.

Place into preheated oven (325 degrees) and bake for 80-90 minutes or until almost set. Sides should be set with a slight rippling effect at the center of the cake (the cake will completely set as it cools and is refrigerated).

Remove from oven and place on a cooling rack. After about 1 hour you can remove the outside of the spring-form; you may need to run a knife around the edge of the cheese cake to loosen the sides before removing the spring-form.

After cooled, place uncovered cheesecake in the refrigerator for 6 hours or overnight before serving. Slice into 12-16 slices.

IN THE KITCHEN WITH SHARON FOX

To prepare crust, combine graham cracker crumbs and sugar in a bowl. Melt butter and stir thoroughly into crumb mixture.

Lightly grease a 9-inch spring-form pan with butter. Press crumbs into bottom of the spring-form pan, working them up the sides if desired (press with the bottom of a 1-cup measuring cup).

Bake crust at 325 degrees for 8-10 minutes. Cool completely.

Begin making the cheesecake filling by placing softened cream cheese into a large bowl. Using a wooden spoon, mix sugar and corn starch in a bowl and then add to cream cheese; stir until smooth. (You can also use an electric mixer on the lowest speed, but doing so will add extra air into the cheesecake and increase the chance of cracking during baking.)

Add 4 eggs one at a time to the filling mixture and stir, scraping down the sides after adding each egg.

Stir in sour cream.

Put two cups of cream cheese mixture into a second bowl.

In the original bowl, stir in vanilla and set aside.

In the second bowl, add 2 egg yolks, orange extract, orange zest, and the food colorings, and stir.

Using a 1-cup measure, pour mixtures into the center of the spring-form pan by alternating white and orange filling. (To create a “perfect” swirl, pour batter directly into the middle of the pan. Each additional pouring will form a new circle inside the last.)

If desired: When finished pouring fillings into the pan, very slightly swirl the top of the cake with a knife to achieve a gentle marbling effect.

Place into preheated oven (325 degrees) and bake for 80-90 minutes or until almost set. Sides should be set with a slight rippling effect at the center of the cake (the cake will completely set as it cools and is refrigerated).

Remove from oven and place on a cooling rack. After about 1 hour you can remove the outside of the spring-form; you may need to run a knife around the edge of the cheese cake to loosen the sides before removing the spring-form.

After cooled, place uncovered cheesecake in the refrigerator for 6 hours or overnight before serving. Slice into 12-16 slices.

IN THE KITCHEN WITH SHARON FOX

Crust:2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 3 tablespoons white sugar 1 teaspoon salt 1 cup shortening 1 egg 1/4 cup cold water

Filling: 3 pounds fresh peach-es - peeled, pitted and sliced 1/4 cup lemon juice 3/4 cup orange juice 1/2 cup butter 2 cups white sugar 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1 teaspoon ground cin-namon 1 tablespoon cornstarch 1 tablespoon white sugar 1 tablespoon butter, melted

In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, 3 tablespoons sugar, and salt. Work in the shortening with a pastry blender until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and cold water. Sprinkle over flour mixture, and work with hands to form dough into a

ball. Chill 30 minutes.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Roll out half of dough to 1/8 inch thickness. Place in a 9x13 inch baking dish, covering bottom and halfway up sides. Bake for 20 minutes, or until golden brown.

In a large saucepan, mix the peaches, lemon juice, and orange juice. Add 1/2 cup butter, and cook over medium-low heat until butter is melted. In a mixing bowl, stir together 2 cups sugar, nutmeg, cinna-mon, and cornstarch; mix into peach mixture. Remove from heat, and pour into baked crust.

Roll remaining dough to a thickness of 1/4 inch. Cut into half-inch-wide strips. Weave strips into a lattice over peaches. Sprinkle with 1 tablespoon sugar, and drizzle with 1 tablespoon melted butter. Bake in preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until top crust is golden brown.

old fashioned peach cobbler

JAMAICAN MEAT PIES (PATTIES)

Pastry: 2 cups all-purpose flour 1/2 Tablespoon curry powder 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 cup solid shortening 1/4 cup (1/2 stick or 4 Tablespoons) cold margarine 1/3 cup icy cold water

Meat Filling: 2 Tablespoons margarine 1 small white onion, finely chopped 1/4 teaspoon chopped Scotch bonnet pepper 1/2 pound lean ground beef 1/2 teaspoon curry powder 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme, crushed 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 1/4 cup breadcrumbs 1/4 cup beef or chicken stock 1/4 cup water 1 egg, beaten

For the pastry:

Whisk together flour, curry powder, and salt in a large bowl. Place in the bowl of a food processor fitted with the metal blade. Add shortening and margarine. Pulse until mixture is crumbly. Add cold water and pulse just until a dough forms. Do not over-process.

Roll dough on a floured wooden cutting board to 1/8-inch thickness. (At this point, you may cover the dough ball in plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. Let rest at room temperature for 15 minutes before proceeding.) Cut circles 6-8 inches in diameter. Cover circles with plastic wrap until ready to use.

For the filling: In a heavy skillet over medium heat, saute onion and Scotch bonnet chile peppers in margarine until softened. Add ground beef, curry powder, thyme, allspice, salt, and pepper. Saute, stirring often, until beef is browned and broken apart, about 10 minutes.

Stir breadcrumbs and beef stock into the ground beef. Cover and simmer 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until all the liquid has been absorbed. It should not be watery, yet still remain moist. Remove from heat and let cool for 10 minutes.

Preheat oven to 400 F. Line baking sheets with parch-ment paper or grease pans.

Place 2 to 3 tablespoons of the meat filling in the center of each pastry circle. Moisten the edges of the circles, fold in half, and seal edges with the tines of a fork. Mix remaining water with the egg. Brush the tops of the pat-ties with the egg wash.

Bake 30 to 40 minutes until golden.

Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Whisk together flour, curry powder, and salt in a large bowl. Place in the bowl of a food processor fitted with the metal blade. Add shortening and margarine. Pulse until mixture is crumbly. Add cold water and pulse just until a dough forms. Do not over-process.

Roll dough on a floured wooden cutting board to 1/8-inch thickness. (At this point, you may cover the dough ball in plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. Let rest at room temperature for 15 minutes before proceeding.) Cut circles 6-8 inches in diameter. Cover circles with plastic wrap until ready to use.

For the filling: In a heavy skillet over medium heat, saute onion and Scotch bonnet chile peppers in margarine until softened. Add ground beef, curry powder, thyme, allspice, salt, and pepper. Saute, stirring often, until beef is browned and broken apart, about 10 minutes.

Stir breadcrumbs and beef stock into the ground beef. Cover and simmer 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until all the liquid has been absorbed. It should not be watery, yet still remain moist. Remove from heat and let cool for 10 minutes.

Preheat oven to 400 F. Line baking sheets with parch-ment paper or grease pans.

Place 2 to 3 tablespoons of the meat filling in the center of each pastry circle. Moisten the edges of the circles, fold in half, and seal edges with the tines of a fork. Mix remaining water with the egg. Brush the tops of the pat-ties with the egg wash.

Bake 30 to 40 minutes until golden.

Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.

George Aja Public Speaker, Author, President of Enjoy Life Movement, LLC george.aja.564@facebook.com

Defeating DiscouragementsI have often heard statements like: “when life gives you lemons, you make lemonade” or “when things get tough the tough get going”, these are only but a couple of the statements we hear when going through a rough phase in our lives. What is interesting to me is that most people mean well when they almost instinctive-ly give these answers, however we all know it takes much more than some old saying that

may or may not be true. I mean, what if you do get some lemons and you realize you have no sug-ar; there goes that theory! By the way, when things get tough where in fact are they going? No one tells you, they just say get going!

I have lived long enough to experience pain, both physically and emotionally, that can bring about these feelings of discouragement. I have found that there is no easy remedy for these things. I do not feel that these emotions and feelings are all together harmful but if one gets stuck there, that’s when things can get really dark and negative. I know what it is like to be betrayed, to watch a child struggle with a physical ailment, to lose someone close, to watch dreams go up in flames and re-lationships fall apart. Yes people, life can get a bit hairy for sure! But do not throw in the towel just yet! You have a lot of living to do and I want to help you realize that you have gained more than you think you have lost.

Through it all, I have learned a few personal truths that might be of a benefit to you if you ever find yourself struggling with discouragement.

One of the first things we lose when we enter the realm of discouragement is our:

Perspective

It is amazing how quickly we can lose sight of reality and slip into this emotional and mental position that blurs the facts. Perspective is important because it means to have a full view of something or as defined by dictionary.com, “The state of one’s ideas, the facts known to one”When someone has encountered enough pain they can begin to view things from a victim mentality; the genesis of this paradigm comes from a point of a historical wound. I have seen many hurting people over the years be blinded by their own pain; which is actually keeping them from their emotional restoration.

The Enjoy Life

Movement

Think about how easily we encoun-ter feelings and see things from a blurred position. When going through the process of coming out or through discouragement don’t lose your full view about what is re-ally going on. You may feel like you have no one to talk to but the truth is maybe all you have to do is pick up the phone and dial some digits.

Talk to someone you trust and who has your best interest at heart.

Do not let your mind run away from you by creating mental pictures that aren’t real. At all cost, hold on to your balanced perspective: “The facts known to one”. By doing so, you will save yourself a lot of time and minimize internal and external conflicts. Keep your head in the game!

Rest

Is a very important component to aiding us in defeating discouragement in our lives. Life is always demanding our time and energy so if we make the mistake of always giving, working and never taking the time to rest, well it can prove to be physically and emotionally fatal. The majority of pro-fessionals recommend a solid 8 hours of sleep.

Allow me to list some benefits of sleep:1. Sleep helps the body make repairs2. Sleep can reduce your risk of depression3. Sleep can improve memory; cognitive function and mood.4. Sleep can make you more alert.5. Sleep reduces inflammation.6. Sleep reduces stress.7. Sleep keeps your heart healthy.

Take some time, get some rest and feel the immediate benefits it brings. Our lives should be lived in balance as we give our bodies the time they need to refuel and be prepared to re-engage, fully energized to fulfill our life assignments.

Recreation

Is another important component to overcoming depression; So many of us take no time at all for our-selves when it comes to some good old recreation, fun, having a good time. Some of us are so busy trying to help everybody else have some recreation that we take no time for our own needs.

It is imperative to get out of the house, take a walk, play some type of sport and get those juices flow-ing!

The Mayo clinic has listed 7 benefits to exercise:

1. Exercise improves your mood.2. Exercise combats chronic diseases.3. Exercise helps you manage your weight.4. Exercise boosts your energy levels5.Exercise promotes better sleep.6.Exercise can put the spark back into your sex life7.Exercise can be fun!

I can tell you for sure, if it wasn’t for physical rec-reation I think I would have blown a gasket a long time ago. So my friends, let’s get off our butts get moving and enjoy the benefits.

Refueling

Refueling is crucial in overcoming discourage-ments. When I speak of refueling I would like to use a simple analogy of a cup that is full and always pouring out to others; eventually the cup runs dry and you have nothing to give to anyone, even yourself.

Some of the ways that I have refueled are as fol-lows:1. Meditation.2. Music that soothes and heals the soul.3. Finding a quite place.4. Reading a book that encourages or inspires me.5. Using the power of imagination to see a brighter day.

Take the time today to implement these proven techniques along with whatever works for you. Remember: the point is we all must refuel, not only for our own sakes but for the sakes of those we love.

Tyra HernandezTwitter: @RealityTvBlogr https://twitter.com/RealityTvBlogrFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/insanityisreality08Instagram: Proudmommie08email: Insanity7612@gmail.com

My name is Tyra Hernandez, best known as ‘INSANE BLOGGER’. Owner of Insanity IS Reality, Mother of 2 beautiful Boys. I am originally from Chi-cago, Illinois who has a drive to create an Empire.

About lil’ ol’ me:I love music, I cant breathe sometimes without it, its the weirdest feeling. I like to scrapbook (I love pictures in general) my home is ‘picture’ perfection! I am a stay home mother with 2 boys, ages 12 and 1. I know right, who has another one after 12 years! I enjoy being a mommy all over again. I do watch too much TV but I have to do something when I’m not cooking, cleaning, laundry, food shopping, baths, etc I do catch them, I DVR everything I’m really bad. I usually have a good nap window with lil’ man to catch up daily. Being a mother is something I take pride in and I am proud of!! A woman in general who is strong and has overcome so much. I would not be the woman I am today without all of the ‘bad’. I have an obsession with ‘Heels’ and I love taking pictures.

I’m too strong minded for my own good. Far too real and its hard for people to accept the truth. It’s hard to hold relationships with people when you don’t trust easily. I’ve loved and lost, I’ve fought and lost, I’ve cried and didnt get my way, I’ve ran and never made it to the finish line, but I am a great person, I love with my whole being, but I hate with my soul. I’m a hermit and a people watcher. TV, Social Me-dia, or in the Walmart, I pay close attention and this world is full of mental patients... Welcome to my In-sanity, my Reality! I always have a reason for every decision I make and I will always be 2 steps ahead of anyone who is out for Blood! Enough about me, welcome to the INSANITY that IS REALITY!!

Insanity IS Reality...where reality BITES!

Insanity IS Reality

OK, I learned more about these women in this two part reunion than damn near the whole season. For some reason everyone was so raw & transparent. Maybe the way this group of ladies reaches a boiling point and the fact that it appeared to be uncensored made is such a good RE-UNION! I also came to an official conclusion regarding Toya and Mariah. I was on the Fence with it all since the fight happened. I have a lot to

say about that now. Keep reading, we are about to get dirty!

Dr. Jackie AKA ‘Dr. Diva’ is a pure woman with a heart of Gold. She is the voice of reason and she is a great example in her community. She is some kind of Superwoman when we consider the fact that she is; battling cancer, dealing with infertility, and she also manages to be a Doctor. But, she’s also iBOOSHIE and over the top. I think she needs to stay in her lane most of the time, but she is a big part of the CAST rather than the actual story line.

Oh how I adore Miss Quad. HELLO now does she not look absolutely gorgeous for this Reunion!?!? From the makeup to the shoes, from her hair to her dress-wow HUNTY! She threw shade like the pro that she is. As always she is someone I love to watch and you just never

know what she will do EXTRA next!! Her wooden shade throwers were absolutely GENIUS. This Reunion was not like any other. These women took classy to the full extent of ‘Street’. Quad is one of the most ‘Ghetto Fab’ Classy, intelligent, and beautiful women I know (on TV). She brings something to this show that no one else could. She and Mariah being so similar in personality, are, and always will be the Dynamic Duo in this show. I know for a fact a Season 2 will take place (you heard it here) and I would be excited to see how she and her husband interact later in a new marriage with all of this talk of babies and where she is with what she is trying to accomplish. She is a star hunnie, and she was meant for the TV. She seems like a very real person too. She is very passionate about people who do ‘dirty’ things and if you add in someone she cares about she will be out for the kill. I know that her confronting Toya was only to ‘throw in her face’ the fact that she is not perfect. She did not tell her hairdresser, she told Toya out of her own mouth. Quad exaggerated the story to prove a point and of course for shock value (that’s QUAD) lol. Only Quad knows why she played that chess piece, and while her motives are unknown, she was still able to show Toya that she is not allowed to throw stones. She took Mariah’s pain on as her own-loyalty at its finest. I am not 100% convinced that her friendship is pure and not given in the interest of shock value itself, but nonetheless, she plays it well.I am sure she is a LOVELY person in every day life, well liked and well respected, but, she is the most uppity bi%^ch I have ever seen! She takes this “I am better then you” attitude to some sort of movie star level. She and Mariah are ALWAYS doing the “no that is a LIE” to each other and based upon what I see, she is the one who invents stories and spends too much time allowing Mariah to live ‘rent free’ in her ‘Free Spirit & Perfect’ head. I truly think she is some sort of upset that Mariah took the “Queen Bee” spot. I have never heard an objection to Mariah holding

Insanity IS Reality

OK, I learned more about these women in this two part reunion than damn near the whole season. For some reason everyone was so raw & transparent. Maybe the way this group of ladies reaches a boiling point and the fact that it appeared to be uncensored made is such a good RE-UNION! I also came to an official conclusion regarding Toya and Mariah. I was on the Fence with it all since the fight happened. I have a lot to

say about that now. Keep reading, we are about to get dirty!

Dr. Jackie AKA ‘Dr. Diva’ is a pure woman with a heart of Gold. She is the voice of reason and she is a great example in her community. She is some kind of Superwoman when we consider the fact that she is; battling cancer, dealing with infertility, and she also manages to be a Doctor. But, she’s also iBOOSHIE and over the top. I think she needs to stay in her lane most of the time, but she is a big part of the CAST rather than the actual story line.

Oh how I adore Miss Quad. HELLO now does she not look absolutely gorgeous for this Reunion!?!? From the makeup to the shoes, from her hair to her dress-wow HUNTY! She threw shade like the pro that she is. As always she is someone I love to watch and you just never

know what she will do EXTRA next!! Her wooden shade throwers were absolutely GENIUS. This Reunion was not like any other. These women took classy to the full extent of ‘Street’. Quad is one of the most ‘Ghetto Fab’ Classy, intelligent, and beautiful women I know (on TV). She brings something to this show that no one else could. She and Mariah being so similar in personality, are, and always will be the Dynamic Duo in this show. I know for a fact a Season 2 will take place (you heard it here) and I would be excited to see how she and her husband interact later in a new marriage with all of this talk of babies and where she is with what she is trying to accomplish. She is a star hunnie, and she was meant for the TV. She seems like a very real person too. She is very passionate about people who do ‘dirty’ things and if you add in someone she cares about she will be out for the kill. I know that her confronting Toya was only to ‘throw in her face’ the fact that she is not perfect. She did not tell her hairdresser, she told Toya out of her own mouth. Quad exaggerated the story to prove a point and of course for shock value (that’s QUAD) lol. Only Quad knows why she played that chess piece, and while her motives are unknown, she was still able to show Toya that she is not allowed to throw stones. She took Mariah’s pain on as her own-loyalty at its finest. I am not 100% convinced that her friendship is pure and not given in the interest of shock value itself, but nonetheless, she plays it well.I am sure she is a LOVELY person in every day life, well liked and well respected, but, she is the most uppity bi%^ch I have ever seen! She takes this “I am better then you” attitude to some sort of movie star level. She and Mariah are ALWAYS doing the “no that is a LIE” to each other and based upon what I see, she is the one who invents stories and spends too much time allowing Mariah to live ‘rent free’ in her ‘Free Spirit & Perfect’ head. I truly think she is some sort of upset that Mariah took the “Queen Bee” spot. I have never heard an objection to Mariah holding

the Title so I have to assume the BS she caused was all to WIN IT for herself. She tried all Season to prove Mariah was not a good example and a disgrace to ‘Doctors Wives’. She ‘teamed up’ with Toya at the perfect time, that fight was the HUGEST deal, so to take a side, why not someone who really dislikes her? I think she is a bad liar. For the record, I believe Mariah held up Pay Pal money and once EXPOSED like that she did not know how to say that she had.When Mariah reminded her that Dr. Wells had the hots for her... oh god, she did not know how to explain herself! That MADE the whole damn Reunion for me!! Then, in the dressing room, she claimed Mariah had always had a CRUSH on him! Mariah is on top, exact-ly where Miss Priss wants to be. I like Toya a lot!! She stays true to who she is at all times and I admire that in anyone. She was quite the mess start-er this Season and whether malicious intents at all times or not, she knew the key to relevance. She went hard to get camera time and wasn’t prepared for the damage to others or herself. She supports her husband’s endeavors every step of the way and is a great housewife. I think in general she is just a strong personality and street to the core. I do not care who she is married to, she

has 2 Toya’s inside her and playing victim with one of them is what made me say that her gossiping and affecting the child was done with Malice. I am certain she did not say “I want to hurt Lauren”. She was sitting there gossiping about why she is better then Mariah. She said in the Interview, “she did it she right way by getting married and having children”. She forgets where she comes from, but then shows her ass. I cannot follow her personality so in general that screams SHADY. She is great for the show for sure. She belongs on another Season & I am certain her and Mariah can get past it all, but, Toya has to take responsibility to the fullest. She owns next to nothing, that is a problem. To be a real friend, you have to know what YOU want in one.-and she doesn’t seem to care!!!

Mariah... she is EXTRA all day, but that is why we all love her!! She is a great represen-tation of Doctors Wives, I believe that! She is so honest and even when she ‘Throws Shade’ she keeps it MARIAH! I know in my soul that she would not have put her hands on Toya if she had not thrown the drink. I really feel horrible that something became so public and what they had to tell to an 8 year old child. She has every right to be so

has 2 Toya’s inside her and playing victim with one of them is what made me say that her gossiping and affecting the child was done with Malice. I am certain she did not say “I want to hurt Lauren”. She was sitting there gossiping about why she is better then Mariah. She said in the Interview, “she did it she right way by getting married and having children”. She forgets where she comes from, but then shows her ass. I cannot follow her personality so in general that screams SHADY. She is great for the show for sure. She belongs on another Season & I am certain her and Mariah can get past it all, but, Toya has to take responsibility to the fullest. She owns next to nothing, that is a problem. To be a real friend, you have to know what YOU want in one.-and she doesn’t seem to care!!!

Mariah... she is EXTRA all day, but that is why we all love her!! She is a great represen-tation of Doctors Wives, I believe that! She is so honest and even when she ‘Throws Shade’ she keeps it MARIAH! I know in my soul that she would not have put her hands on Toya if she had not thrown the drink. I really feel horrible that something became so public and what they had to tell to an 8 year old child. She has every right to be so

angry. She has forgiven Toya and that is always a good thing. I think she is feeling many kinds of betrayed and when that happens, the human reaction may lead to ‘Paranoia’. No one can diag-nose her with Multiple Personalities, etc., she is Mariah always! She may catch you off guard but she keeps it funky all day. She may have an attitude while doing it, but she admits her wrongs. She took her own blame from jump on that fight, that should have been a sign for me!! She is the QUEEN BEE and she is so aware. The more that things unraveled she just realized what I had always known & said about Kari. She now knows what she is really up to and SHE IS NOT HAV-ING IT HUNNIE! She takes Boss to the level it needs to be. She is honest, loyal, real and Street... perfect for TV!

I cannot say goodbye to the Season unless I literally saved the BEST for Last.! She wins the ‘In-sane Blogger’s Realest -Reality TV- personality’ Award!! The Reunion just topped ALL of her off. She owns her stuff, even as a mother and as a wife. She apologizes when she is wrong, even if she is late about it. She is a Doctor who curses and drinks Vodka. She is unhealthy and delivers babies all day & night. WHAT??!! She is funny and knows when to be serious. If I could pick the

perfect friend it would be Dr. Bit&*!! I know her relationship with Dr. Jackie is a close one and I really loved watching their friendship play out. Dr, Jackie IS THE ONLY person who can (secretly) chin check her! Dr. Simone respects people at all times but never takes the crap. Many do not dare dish it either, and I can see why. She is the most ‘odd’ representation of a Doctor I can imagine, but I love her. She makes me want to move to Atlanta and make more babies. If I had a Dr. like her, I would be healthy as a horse today! I love this lady for real. She is a personality all in herself. She was transparent the whole show, family, work, play and relationships. It was a fun ride with her!!! I have to see her on my TV again, I will miss her! ((for now))

A Tweep introduced me and told me I HAD to watch this Show, I caught up with the few I had missed and I have been in love with these ladies ever since! It was a great journey and they covered SO much of their lives that it has definitely won over the viewers and I anticipate a Season 2, Drama or not I AM PREDICTING that Dr. Jack-ie will not play a role in the next one. Great season ladies, especially for First Timers! I have one more thing I HAVE to talk about... smdh!!!I felt a little angry honestly, when this came up in Google images. When someone finds dirt on another person in a game of ‘I know your sh*%$ too’, what you do with it

is a choice. Quad went to Toya and kind of did that “Na na I KNOW’, but to her FACE. Toya and Kari put this out there even though they knew there was embarrassment to be felt. That is so wrong on so many levels. I did not hear anyone talk about this exchange much, but Toya & Kari were SO FOUL! It was clear that it was a dispute with her husband, not a drug ring.

Foul. So damn out of pocket!! IJS

Finding PuposeAfter freshly graduating from the University of Minnesota with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance, I am faced with a serious question. How am I going to make this work? Not only that, but will I be able to support myself in the process of me doing my own thing? I know that I’m fresh, and I’m new to the professional world, but that doesn’t mean that I already haven’t experienced the turmoil and struggle that artists often experience when trying to carry out a career.

From the struggles that I had as a child, moving from studio to studio simply because of the fact that either my hometown couldn’t support the business, the business was ran poorly, or one of my instructors happened to commit a felony in the act of “paying rent”, I am able to say that life won’t change. Not in a depressing bleak way, but in a way that prepares me for the worst, and in a way that is strangely familiar to my history in North Dakota as a male dancer. So what does that mean for the future? What does that mean for the aspiring choreographer and concert dancer? It means that in times of difficulty, I can look back at the days in which I danced on my front lawn to continue my craft rather than to fall backwards at a time when my family was socially outcasted from the only mediocre studio in the area for “hugging” and loving each other too much. It means that I can look back at the days in which I danced on carpet in an elementary school cafeteria with my sister and my future dance instructor and colleague in order to keep our performance obligations fulfilled. It means that despite hard times, I will be able to look back at the sacrifices I had to make in the past in order to carry on and prevail in the most favorable way.

Do I worry about my future as a performing artist? To a slight degree, I do worry about my career as a performing artist. However, I look back at the experiences that I had, and the sacrifices that I had to make AS A CHILD, and I realize that I am a fully equipped adult, and I am more than capable of making this life happen for myself. In the past, I had a strong foundation of support and love from my family. Because of that love, and because of the integrity behind the way my family raised me, I’m confident in the fact that I can stand up for what I want with myself and my career, because I find an honorable purpose behind what I do. I don’t just dance, choreograph, teach, and deliver pizzas on the side. I inspire oth-ers, I look at social issues on our world through movement, I give children a solid base to succeed later in life, and I get people their food pretty damn fast. I have a purpose, and I believe strongly in that purpose. Yes, that belief my not always shine brightly at 2,000 Watts, but it continues to be fueled, and it continues to sustain over time. Do I find myself invincible? With this much purpose,

By: Preston Stockert

After transcending a broken relationship, long or short term, married or just committed; starting and maintaining a new one can be just as difficult as the last one was. The biggest reason, in my humble opinion, is that we forget about the “transition period”. Hence, affecting transformation into the “new” person you need to be. Transitioning is indeed a two-part transaction. The first is when the previous relationship ends; we go through a transition from hurt to healed, sad to happy, or at least to okay; or from angry to forgiving, or forgetting…melancholy to much better The second is transforming; building, maintaining and blossoming the “you” for a relationship, specifically marriage. Well actually, it happens before that. Transitioning and transforming from connected to disconnected, attached to unattached.

The transition period of a relationship takes place when two separate personalities merge, or try to merge as one. Trans-formation is after going through transition. Throughout these segments, trials, challenges, and other adverse opportunities arise that you must work through. Some of them are merely the work of devil, but some of them will be you or your candi-date for a mate. The problem is that most don’t go through a long enough or effective enough transition to eliminate self as a problem. Then, they go into the transforming stage of the transaction unprepared. ill-prepared, ill-equipped and expect to merge as one as smoothly as making a lane change.

The biggest problem for that failure is due mostly to “not enough”; not enough self-inspection, not enough retrospection, and not enough personal growth and development from previous relationships that failed. You did not untie the knots. You did not learn to separate standards and expectations. Expectations are not criterion to measure a continued relationship. And that is what people focus on, unfortunately, the expectations. The standards are what are important. I’m not talking about basic standards like being employed or having an income to contribute to household and living expenses; nor things such as personal hygiene, grooming, etc. I’m talking about expecting one to completely understand, accept, adjust and acclimate to moving from independent to interdependent, from solo to team member. Untie the knots.

Often it becomes partners just wishing it; the union, the joining, the partnership, the relationship, the marriage to work. Hop-ing it works. Praying it works. But what will make it work is work. You…must make it work. Work makes it work, every day, every hour, every minute, every second of selfless work. Tie the knots. First, you need to work on you!

Alright people, I think that is enough for you to marinate on for a while.

For more “Keith isms” you can join me on Facebook by logging in searching THE KEITH DON’T KNOW GROUP. Believe me, you’ll be awfully glad you did! This is The Colonel Keith V. Murphy signing out ‘til we meet again.

Thanks for reading “Kickin it with Keith”

TRANSITION, TRANSFORM…UNTIE THE ‘NOT’…TIE THE KNOT!

“Kickin it with Keith” the Relationship Doctor

Keith V. Murphy Author, Motivational

speaker and Relationship Counselor Contact: www.keithvmurphy.com or

itskvm@facebook.com

The Place Beyond the Pines”is divided into three parts which segue into unequal sequences among the three.But it’s Ryan Gosling’s character Luke sending off Der-ek Cianfrances’s “Pines”on a chilling and strongest path than what follows(not bad at all just falters to a fault). “Pines starts off with Luke,a motorcy-cle stuntman(remember Ryan Gosling in “Drive”)in various state fairs,quits his job only after while working in Altamont,New York,he visits ex-girlfriend,Romina(Eva Mendes),telling him he is the father of her son.He wants to be next to his son and wants to stay in town,but Romina doesn’t want him in his child’s life.She’s presently with a Black man,Kofi(Mahershala Ali),a decent gentleman who Luke resents.Luke’s resentment toward Kofi is not because he’s Black, it’s because another man has stepped in the way of his duty as a father.Frustrated,out of work Luke resorts to robbing banks teaming up with a self-employed mechanic Robin(Ben

Mendelsohn).Luke’s androgen gets ahead of itself robs one bank too many leading to police officers,namely,Officer Avery(Bradley Cooper)pursued Luke fatally shooting him.Avery is praised for “good police work” by his department in Schenectady,New York,all from the time he’s hospitalized from Luke’s Saturday Night Special. Then,before all is said and done,Avery’s so-called good police comes into scrutiny by fellow officers determined to stage a cover-up.(Part 2 is moving in the direction of the movie”Cop Land”.) As the second story sprawls before our eyes,there’s such insufficient cause for a deemed cover-up much less the characters involved thereof do not get developed much through this sub rosa ordeal.Ray Liotta’s character Deluca is on of those characters that should have been explored a lot better.The character Cooper plays well enough on its own,but his character doesn’t mesh well against the first part and lumbers along almost ridiculously in the third part. Cianfrance’s third part where Avery’s son A.J.(Emory Cohen)and the son of Luke(R.I.P.),Jason(Dane DeHaan)conve-niently are attending the same school.Predictably the two team up but when Jason discovers that A.J.’s father Avery killed his father things change for the worst. To summarize,the ending I cannot quibble with it has a “sunny” exist following a manifest predictable and under-whelming part 3.Cianfrances used Ryan Gosling in “Blue Valentine”(2010)all the way through.Killing off Gosling is no problem:but is it too soon?Cast:Ryan Gosling(Luke),Eva Mendes(Romina),Mahershala Ali(Koki),Emory Cohen(A-J),Dane De Haan(Jason),Ray Liotta(Deluca),Bruce Greenwood(Bill Killcullen),Ben Mendelsohn(Robin),Rose Byrne(Jen-nifer),Harris Yulin(Al Cross),Bradley Cooper(Avery),Craig Van Hook(Jack).Running time::140 minutes.(R)Director:Derek Cianfrances.

Howard McQuitterMovie Criticshowardmcquitterii@yahoo.

TRU. MOVIE REVIEW

A TRU Entreprenuer,Up close with Event Promoter,

Soda PartierSoda Partier was Born in Ubon, Thailand. He started loving music as a young boy and one of his favorite songs was “Country Roads” by John Denver. Growing up around par-ents who managed local bands and hosted concerts his interest in the business of music began to peak at a very early age.

Soda couldn’t really sing or rap so he decided upon throwing events instead. The first event he threw was

on New Years Eve in 2002. His first national act was Digital Underground back in 2007 and to date his promotion company The Partier Live has brought numerous artists to the twin cities ranging from Snoop Lion to Wu Tang and George Clin-ton. Soda and his wife just had a baby girl so that might slow him down a bit, but he says that Minneapolis always has something going on so we don’t expect him to slow down too much!

In a recent interview with the Events Promoter extraordinaire we chopped it up about his work, his life, the obstacles he faces on a regular basis, and the path he chooses to tread;

THE INTERVIEW

TRU: Being in music promotions is a difficult field, what sorts of problems do you deal with on a day-to-day basis?

A: For the most part, there aren’t a lot of problems. Find-ing the right people (promoters) that you can trust was tough but I think we got it right.

TRU: How do you prepare for those situations?

A: Faith in people. Try to get the best feel for who is helping you, and what they are like, and then hope my instincts are good.

TRU: What is your earliest memory of taking part in pro-moting an event?

A: My earliest memory was handing out my first flyer and the person said no thanks. I thought I was doomed.

TRU: Were you able to learn from that experience?A: Yes, I learned that people will say no but the important thing is getting the word out to the right people. If you’re not out there face-to-face it’s hard to gain an audience.

TRU: When did you begin to work professional level promotions, and what did you do to prepare yourself for that field of work?

A: I started throwing events in high school. My first professional event was organiz-

ing a student vs staff basketball game fundraiser as a senior. I didn’t have to prepare much it was kind of taught to me by my dad. He was also a concert promoter in Minneapolis for local Laotian/Thai bands. I just knew what to do in a way. Of course, I probably did some things wrong, and still do, but it came natural.

TRU: Are there any individuals that you would consider a mentor or inspiration to you personally?

A: My boy Jason Aukes, who just passed away. Beecher Villaincourt, Kim King, Zak Koutersky (aka DVS 1), and Yoni Reinharz helped me out a lot. The most significant person of course is my late father Moot Rajsombath.

TRU: What do you have on the ticket currently?

A: Right now we have 112 coming June 9, Baby Bash July 21, Naughty by Nature coming August 2, and a show we booked on September 14th that we will announce in July.

TRU: How do you feel about the reaction to those events?A: The reaction has been great so far. I think it will continue to be fun.

TRU: Is it tough to work with multiple levels of talent?A: It’s very tough. You have lots of different personalities to deal with, but most of them are cool.

TRU: Do you have a team of people who assist you, or do you ride solo?A: We have a team. My wife helps me a ton, and we have a solid street team.

TRU: What is the most fun you’ve had promoting an event?A: It had to be Snoop Dogg at Cabooze. That was an honor to me, and the show was sick!

TRU: You recently became a father, do you believe that will change the way you see the world?

A: I already see the world differently. My daughter is already everything to me. The whole experience was life changing, but I think you can have a balance. I can still do shows and be a good father. I hope.

TRU: “Do you have any advice for those young cats out there looking to get into promotions?

A: My advice is “be prepared to fail”. You’re not gong to be an overnight success. If you are, please come help me. LOL…It takes hard work and you must be involved in every aspect. That means you will have to handout flyers, walk the streets, go out to shows and spend the time.

That’s it from the ground level. You gotta put in the work if you’re going to play the game…and that’s the TRU.th!

By. Matthew Fleegle

ing a student vs staff basketball game fundraiser as a senior. I didn’t have to prepare much it was kind of taught to me by my dad. He was also a concert promoter in Minneapolis for local Laotian/Thai bands. I just knew what to do in a way. Of course, I probably did some things wrong, and still do, but it came natural.

TRU: Are there any individuals that you would consider a mentor or inspiration to you personally?

A: My boy Jason Aukes, who just passed away. Beecher Villaincourt, Kim King, Zak Koutersky (aka DVS 1), and Yoni Reinharz helped me out a lot. The most significant person of course is my late father Moot Rajsombath.

TRU: What do you have on the ticket currently?

A: Right now we have 112 coming June 9, Baby Bash July 21, Naughty by Nature coming August 2, and a show we booked on September 14th that we will announce in July.

TRU: How do you feel about the reaction to those events?A: The reaction has been great so far. I think it will continue to be fun.

TRU: Is it tough to work with multiple levels of talent?A: It’s very tough. You have lots of different personalities to deal with, but most of them are cool.

TRU: Do you have a team of people who assist you, or do you ride solo?A: We have a team. My wife helps me a ton, and we have a solid street team.

TRU: What is the most fun you’ve had promoting an event?A: It had to be Snoop Dogg at Cabooze. That was an honor to me, and the show was sick!

TRU: You recently became a father, do you believe that will change the way you see the world?

A: I already see the world differently. My daughter is already everything to me. The whole experience was life changing, but I think you can have a balance. I can still do shows and be a good father. I hope.

TRU: “Do you have any advice for those young cats out there looking to get into promotions?

A: My advice is “be prepared to fail”. You’re not gong to be an overnight success. If you are, please come help me. LOL…It takes hard work and you must be involved in every aspect. That means you will have to handout flyers, walk the streets, go out to shows and spend the time.

That’s it from the ground level. You gotta put in the work if you’re going to play the game…and that’s the TRU.th!

Your glow might be faux, but your goal is for no one to know. Stop stressing about streaking, thanks to these products and tips.

For face:Olay Total Effects CC Cream. This much-buzzed-about formula acts as an anti-aging moisturizer, an SPF 15 sunscreen, and an illuminating sheer tint, making it summer’s ultimate triple threat. Meanwhile, in true Total Effects fashion, it also fights seven signs of aging to help correct everything from dry, patchy, saggy and dull skin to fine lines and wrinkles to age spots and open pores.

TIP: Keeping your makeup summer-simple by just wearing a bronzer? Apply a moisturizer, even a lightweight one, beforehand to prevent color from collecting on dry areas.

Maybelline Fit Me! Bronzer. For a fresh, natural look, dust a little of this powder all over the face. Lightweight pigments provide fade-proof bronze color that also enhances an established tan. Available in three shades: light bronze, medium bronze and deep bronze.

TIP: How much glow is too much? If you’re faux tan faux-bic, apply bronzer only on the apples of the cheeks, chin and fore-head, all spots where the sun naturally hits, to avoid an overload of color.

For body:L’Oreal Sublime Bronze Towelettes. For those who lack confi-dence in their lotion-application skills, these easy-to-use tow-elettes offer an alternative. As you run one over the body, a color-creating combination of self-tanner, vitamin E, and gentle alpha hydroxy acids are left to absorb into the skin, streak-free. Within a few days, your skin tone is darkened by a very natu-ral-looking two shades!

TIP: Leave knees, elbows, and ankles for last, when the towelette is less damp. The thicker the skin, the more tanner it collects, so by applying a little less in these areas, you help ensure that the color develops evenly.

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Italiano CalabreseWord has it that the homeboy, Rap/Hip Hop Producer; Italiano Calabrese has produced a theme song for a new reality show headed to T.V. land; Bo$$ Ladies. Rumor has it he’ll make a cameo appearance on the show as well. Italiano is Leah DeSimone’s boy from the East Coast. They’re Makin moves baby! Here’s the blast...

Tru: You’re from the East Coast and you’ve been in the biz for over 20 years. So how did you break into the Rap/Hip Hop Game?

A: I broke into the music business about 3 years ago after a long struggle and relentless grind. Fi-nally I came into contact with a man named Jesse Jess from Urban Threshold from the Bronx, NY. Tru: We see that you’re an Italian Writer Producer who wears it proudly, and works predominantly with the Black community of Rappers. How’s that working for you? Do you ever have issues and/or get flack because of your ethnicity?

A: I am constantly writing and creating new music on a daily basis. I have earned my respect in the hood. How do you earn it? You simply show your face and your loyalty for over 20 years in the game. Being a white/Italian MC has not always been easy, but being Italian is something that everyone could relate to. The culture is actually very similar in a lot of ways with that of the African

American culture. Hip Hop is universal and when you have true skills and stay true to who you are; it is always going to be a win- win. I grew up with all races and colors and have never judged nor never will judge anyone based on skin color. Tru: You were up for an award for “the most original male hip hop artist in 2012” who was giving the award and how did your nomination come to be?

A: I was performing at a Faces in the Crowd show-case at SOB’s in Manhattan, NY, and met Jesse Jess from urban Threshold. He really saw something in me and asked me to partake in the AR Power Sum-

BBy Lydia King

mit in South Beach, Miami Florida. I went out to Miami last June and did a couple shows out there and Jesse Jess who runs the Underground Music Awards nominated me for Most Original Male Hip Hop Artist 2012. The award show was at BB Kings in NY and was an amaz- ing experience.

Tru: Quite a few of the most popular Rappers come from an “interesting” background. Is that true for you too? Tell us about your former life before music production became your thing.

A: Honestly, like so many rappers of today and in the past, street life and making money from the street is what started me in the game. From run-ins with the FEDS to booking sports, and a lot of other things I am not proud of, I was no stranger to crime and that way of life. I grew up in it all my life and from that I began to write raps about true life experiences. I went to the University of Connecticut, and when I got out I began working on my music and working the streets. I have my own construction business and do millions of

dollars in that, but music will always be what I love. Tru: Who are some of the established artists/producers you’ve worked with and which were your favorite projects to work on?

A: I have worked with some great producers, engineers, and artists in the past 20 years. Doing shows with the likes of Eric Sermon, and doing singles with the likes of Beanie Sigel and Brian Angel (formerly of Day 26) ,my boy G-Fella, just to name a few. I have to say that my favorite project of all would be with Beanie Sigel. I opened up for him a couple years ago and we hit it off right away. We went straight to the studio at 2am after the club and worked until it was light outside. We made a banger called CONNECT. It got rave reviews but was silenced because Beans got locked up and we were not able to really push the project. The joint called ‘My Number One’ with Brian Angel is a hit and a half, and we are trying to get both camps to agree on terms for a video. Mike Mass from massbeats.com had a great influence on my music ca-reer as well. Tru: We know that you produced a couple of songs for reality T.V. personality, Leah DeSimone how did you two meet and do you plan to do any future work together?

A: First of all, I want to say that I absolutely love Leah. She is like family to me and is one of the most caring, respectful people

I have ever met. She is definitely like the sister I never had. We met in the Bronx, NY at my boy Salese album release party. I loved her swag and got at her a

couple days later when she was back in Chicago. We spoke a little bit about her career and the show she was doing at the time, Mob Wives Chicago. I decided I would do a song for her and when it was done I blew her away. The song is titled, ‘She My Leah DeSimone’. My boy Serafin produced the track and I put together a montage on YouTube. Go check it out!!!! The Italians loved it and that’s how I built my fan base in Chicago; along with the single I did

with “$wagg”, a rap artist from Chicago, Lil Jojo’s brother who was murdered recently in a senseless shooting. Leah and I are working together again as we speak. I wrote and co- produced with Serafin the theme song for her new show, coming this summer called, Bo$$ Ladies. My boy MPH is on the hook and its Very hot, look out for that soon. Tru: What projects do you have coming up and where can we find your music or find you performing at?

A: I recently put an album out in January titled ‘Now Or Never’. You can go buy that on Itunes for $9.99. It’s a bargain. It really is a classic in so many ways. If you want to check for me go to my twitter page Italiano203, or my Facebook page Italiano Calabrese. I will have show dates posted in June. I just record-ed a new single called ‘Fry Fish’ and will be shooting a video in June. If you want to check out some of my music go to my Soundcloud ‘Italianodc.’

Tru. is looking forward to whats next with Italiano, make sure you follow him and check out “Now or Never”, it’s The TRUth

facebook.com/italianocalabrese

The Kings of the Mic Tour made its way to the Target Center in Minneapolis on Thursday, May 30, 2013, and showcased a variety of acts which included old school rap and hip-hop royalty. The show kicked off as De La Soul took the stage at 8pm followed by killer perfor-mances by Public Enemy, Ice Cube, and closed out by none other than LL Cool J himself. The mixed-age, predominantly White audience were clearly enjoying themselves. For those of us in the 35+ crowd, the show was nostalgic as it brought us back to our high school and college days. De La Soul really got the party started by get-ting the crowd turnt up and out of their seats, hands in the air. They were only on stage for about 20 minutes, but managed to perform notable hits such as “Potholes In My Lawn” and

“Saturdays.” I was kinda hoping they would close with “3 Feet High and Rising” but another time, I guess. Twenty five years after releasing their first album, Public Enemy is still one of the greatest live acts in the busi-ness. The group, all in their early fifties brought high levels of energy to the stage at Target Center. If I didn’t know better, I’d swear they were still in their twenties. Chuck D, Flavor Flav, and Professor Griff really know how to put on a show! Of course they were not alone. DJ Lord, along with several musicians and S1W accom-panied them on stage. Flav opened by announcing that he’s been wearing a giant clock around his neck since 1987 and swore he wouldn’t take it off until they were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, which they were this past April. And then said ‘Now we’re gonna show you why!’ With DJ Lord on the 1’s and 2’s, Chuck D spit rhymes on a mission and Flav bounced around the stage so much, I was sweat’in for him. And real talk, I have never seen anyone make one-armed push ups look as effortless as Professor Griff did. They performed fan favorites such as “Don’t Believe The Hype” and “Shut ‘em Down”. Public Enemy rocked the Minneapolis crowd before closing out hard to 1989’s “Fight the Power.”Ice Cube took the stage with Dub C and DJ Crazy Tunes in true gangsta fashion as he opened with “Natural Born Killers.” Showing his softer side, Cube did a dedication to the late Nate Dogg which went a lil something like this, “hey hey hey hey - smoke weed every day” (4x), then said “R.I.P. Nate Dogg. We love you.” Cube also performed “Westside Connection” with his signature hardcore flow and even had inflatable hands repp’in the westside symbol. He performed fan faves such as “Check Yo’self”, “You Can Do It”, and closed out his 40 minute set with my personal favorite, ‘It Was A Good Day.”As the headlining act, LL Cool J literally rose up as he took the stage from a raised platform dressed in a red tour t-shirt, Yankees cap worn backwards, jeans sagg’in, and a blinged out gold mic in hand. LL opened with “Jack The Ripper”. Then with DJ Z-Trip spinning and scratching old-school, Chuck D joined LL for a lyrical exchange of “Whaddup.” The lip-licking sensation took the audience down memory lane with songs like “Momma Said Knock You

Concert Review

Kings of the Mic Tour

By Karen J. Larson

Out,” and “Going Back To Cali.” As an added touch, LL gave a shout out to the Minneapolis scene stating that it needed to be recognized and then invited Atmosphere up for a playful version of “Big Ole Butt.” He even gave out red roses and towels to the ladies during his more sensitive tracks such as “I Need Love.” To round out the celebration of old school, LL mixed in tracks like Biggie’s “Big Poppa” and closed out the hour long set with his biggest hits including my favorite “Around The Way Girl.” Overall, Kings of The Mic was a great concert! The only thing that would have made it better, you ask? Obviously, if LL Cool J had taken off his shirt and given it to me. Am I right? *wink

Kings of the Mic Tour dates:Jun. 12 -Baltimore Jun. 14 -Simpsonville Jun. 15 -Portsmouth Jun. 16 -Durham Jun. 18 -Newark Jun. 19 -Boston Jun. 20 -New York Jun. 22 -Canandaigua Jun. 23 -Mount Pleasant Jun. 25 -Cleveland Jun. 26 -Clarkston Jun. 27 -Cincinnati Jul. 1 -Grand Prairie Jul. 2 -Austin Jul. 3 -Houston Jul. 7 -Los Angeles

The month of June is full of exciting news in the world of reality and the new show we’ve been talking about in the works; Bo$$ Ladies!First off, the cast of the new bar staff has just been announced and WE have the exclusive! We can report that plans are underway to search for the new location for Bo$$ Ladies VIP EXCLUSIVE, the hot new bar that the ladies are opening up and the hiring has begun! Bartenders; Giovanni Davero, David Andreiw and Antonio Ciancilo join co-stars; Dana Marie, Natalie Gerasimchuk and Eddie Strong to run the bar. According to insiders who know the cast intimately this group of wild n crazy “twenty-something” year olds will be all about the drama, and we, for one, are excited to see it all unfold! Let us not forget to mention that they are all very easy on the eyes ladies (and gents), that alone plus this exciting mix of personalities is bound to keep us on the lookout for the much anticipated newcomer to the world of reality TV! We’ve also learned that there is a gorgeous new sultry singer that has been brought in by club investors, by the name of Wendy Valasso George. We’ve done our research and ‘George’ is well known all around the Chicago club scene for burning up the stage with her exotic beauty, dynamic voice and soulful moves. She is also rumored to be considering eventually going into co-ownership of the bar with the original Bo$$ Ladies; Leah DeSimone, Michele Luciano and Franky Forliano. Also new to the cast is business investor Christine Nicole, a close friend of Michelle’s who brought into ownership of the bar last month. Christine’s in laws have owned a very popular Italian Restaurant in the Chicago area for years so she knows the bar/restaurant business inside and out and she promises to bring her expertise and shake up whatever may be out of place. We just bet-SHE will!There are plenty of headstrong women in the mix of this show, so we have no doubt that BL is gonna bring it! Be on the lookout for more juicy details Tru. fam! If it’s reality news- we’ll bring it to you too!

Bo$$ Ladies stars, Leah DeSimone, Michelle Luciano and Franky Forliano have all been very busy this month!Leah is working on a “Special Love 4 Special People” column for Tru. Magazine that will put the spotlight on some truly amazing people with special needs. Leah will be sharing their stories from all around the world. Last month she brought Derich Manz to our attention. An incredible young man whose dreams she made come true when she showed up for his surprise birthday party in Chicago. Too cool!Next up we have Michelle Luciano. The Bo$$ lady and stay- at- home mother of three boys has teamed up with Fitness Instructor, Hip-Hop Producer and actor on NBC’s Chicago Fire, Eugene Hicks to produce a series of exercise video’s for busy moms. Michelle and ‘Gene have promised to give us the exclusive on their new project and to share tips on staying fit for mom’s on the go. #We’re excited! Franky Forliano, daughter of the infamous lead-er of the Chicago Outfit; Harry Aleman is working on a book about the story of her life with her father. “They can’t hurt him anymore” is the name of the soon to be released blockbuster book which chronicles her life with Harry. Double jeopardy, bribes, murder and the man she only knew as “dad” will all be revealed for the first time ever in the ONLY book written by his daughter. As Franky tells the twisting tale of her life with one of America’s Most Wanted we’ll show you the first ever excerpts from the new book starting next month. As always, WE keep it TRU!

BO$$ BLAST REALITY NEWS UPDATE !

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The month of June is full of exciting news in the world of reality and the new show we’ve been talking about in the works; Bo$$ Ladies!First off, the cast of the new bar staff has just been announced and WE have the exclusive! We can report that plans are underway to search for the new location for Bo$$ Ladies VIP EXCLUSIVE, the hot new bar that the ladies are opening up and the hiring has begun! Bartenders; Giovanni Davero, David Andreiw and Antonio Ciancilo join co-stars; Dana Marie, Natalie Gerasimchuk and Eddie Strong to run the bar. According to insiders who know the cast intimately this group of wild n crazy “twenty-something” year olds will be all about the drama, and we, for one, are excited to see it all unfold! Let us not forget to mention that they are all very easy on the eyes ladies (and gents), that alone plus this exciting mix of personalities is bound to keep us on the lookout for the much anticipated newcomer to the world of reality TV! We’ve also learned that there is a gorgeous new sultry singer that has been brought in by club investors, by the name of Wendy Valasso George. We’ve done our research and ‘George’ is well known all around the Chicago club scene for burning up the stage with her exotic beauty, dynamic voice and soulful moves. She is also rumored to be considering eventually going into co-ownership of the bar with the original Bo$$ Ladies; Leah DeSimone, Michele Luciano and Franky Forliano. Also new to the cast is business investor Christine Nicole, a close friend of Michelle’s who brought into ownership of the bar last month. Christine’s in laws have owned a very popular Italian Restaurant in the Chicago area for years so she knows the bar/restaurant business inside and out and she promises to bring her expertise and shake up whatever may be out of place. We just bet-SHE will!There are plenty of headstrong women in the mix of this show, so we have no doubt that BL is gonna bring it! Be on the lookout for more juicy details Tru. fam! If it’s reality news- we’ll bring it to you too!

Bo$$ Ladies stars, Leah DeSimone, Michelle Luciano and Franky Forliano have all been very busy this month!Leah is working on a “Special Love 4 Special People” column for Tru. Magazine that will put the spotlight on some truly amazing people with special needs. Leah will be sharing their stories from all around the world. Last month she brought Derich Manz to our attention. An incredible young man whose dreams she made come true when she showed up for his surprise birthday party in Chicago. Too cool!Next up we have Michelle Luciano. The Bo$$ lady and stay- at- home mother of three boys has teamed up with Fitness Instructor, Hip-Hop Producer and actor on NBC’s Chicago Fire, Eugene Hicks to produce a series of exercise video’s for busy moms. Michelle and ‘Gene have promised to give us the exclusive on their new project and to share tips on staying fit for mom’s on the go. #We’re excited! Franky Forliano, daughter of the infamous lead-er of the Chicago Outfit; Harry Aleman is working on a book about the story of her life with her father. “They can’t hurt him anymore” is the name of the soon to be released blockbuster book which chronicles her life with Harry. Double jeopardy, bribes, murder and the man she only knew as “dad” will all be revealed for the first time ever in the ONLY book written by his daughter. As Franky tells the twisting tale of her life with one of America’s Most Wanted we’ll show you the first ever excerpts from the new book starting next month. As always, WE keep it TRU!

REALITY NEWS UPDATE !

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1) Christine 2) Giovanni3) Wendy4) David 5) Antonio 6) Leah7) Michelle8) Franky9) Eddie 10) Natalie 11) Dana

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Ashley DuBose is a budding singer/songwriter, based in the Twin Cities. She released her debut album, Something More™ in May 2012, and has been performing heavily ever since. Ashley’s musical style is very eclectic, soulful, and appeals to a variety of audiences. Ashley graduated from St. Catherine University with a Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics, a day after her album release in May 2012, and is currently employed as a programmer analyst in the IT department of a prominent financial institution. With a precious three year old daughter to love and care for, in addition to work and a music career, the challenge to manage it all is where Ashley draws a lot of inspiration for the songs that she writes. It’s no secret that Ashley credits God for her musical accomplishments and for great opportunities such as having her music played on local radio stations and singing at Minnesota’s NFL, MLB, NBA, and WNBA team games.Get to know more about this ‘next to blow’ artist by checking out what she had to say when Tru. reporter, Karen Larson sat down with her for a candid behind-the-scenes interview.

TM: When did you first start singing and how did you get started?

AD: I started singing as a kid about age 6 or 7. I remember singing along to songs on the radio or tapes/CDs that my mom would have playing in the house. I performed for the first time when I was in sixth grade; me and a friend sang “Where My Girls At?” by 702 in the school talent show. I wrote quite a few songs in my preteen and early teen years which I would sing in my room, but I never record-ed or performed them. I also participated in a few talent shows at my middle school and at the Boys and Girls Club that I was a member of. I started doing paid performances when I was in high school. I performed with two groups during my senior year -- “Imani, Mommy and Company”and a Christian hip hop group that my friends and I created called “Sky Hye”. I did some very amateur recording in high school and college, as well. My most recent musical activity really branched from featuring on a few songs for a fellow local artist named Mike Dreams. I linked with the producers of his first two albums, which eventually lead to the creation of my debut album, Somethin’ More.

Uptown & Around the World,by: Karen Larson

TM: Who are your musical inspirations (as in other artists)?

AD: I admire so many known and not-so-well known artists. I am inspired by the wonderful voices and songwriting of India Arie, Lauryn Hill, and Alicia Keys, to name a few. I admire the poise, strength, and incredible vocal ability of Beyonce and Pink. I grew up lis-tening to Alanis Morrisette, Brittany Spears, Destiny’s child, and Will Smith. I mean, my musical inspirations and influences range a wide spectrum of genres and styles.My music peer and friend, Mike Dreams, is a huge role model for me. I am inspired by his creativity, clever lyricism, his incredible work ethic and his persistence in putting out great music time after time -- I want to be like Mike!

TM: What kind of music do you listen to today?

AD: It really depends on the day. I listen to everything from Christian alternative rock to independent hip hop. I usually turn on the radio and skim until I hear something that nurtures my mood -- whether I’m in a good or bad mood. I also like to vibe out to smooth jazz and even classical music. Really, I listen to it all...except for Heavy Metal.

TM: Where would you most like to perform?

AD:If I could choose anywhere in the world to perform, it would be on the stage at the

Grammys after accepting my first Grammy award! (Hey, gotta dream big, right?)

TM: Who would you most like to open for?AD: I would LOVE to open for Bruno Mars. It’s not as ran-dom as it sounds. I often think to myself, if I had to choose a pop image, I would be a female Bruno Mars!

TM: What genre of music can’t you stand to listen to?AD: Heavy Metal -- like death metal music. Not sure if I am naming the style of music correctly, but the screaming and all -- I just can’t enjoy it.

TM: What hidden talents do you have?AD: (Thinking hard)... I don’t have any hidden talents... Dang, why you gotta call me out like that in an interview, cuz? (lol).

TM: What do you enjoy most about writing music and/or lyrics?AD: I enjoy word play, telling stories, including subtle mean-ing that only I am aware of, creating melodies, and writing about certain topics that aren’t oftern found in popular music, but conquering the challenge of still making it catchy and relevant to today’s listeners. A beauty of songwriting which I appreciate is that there is an infinite set of emotions that hu-mans experience, but an inifinite number of songs that can be created, all conveying one (or more) of these emotions. So basically I enjoy finding new ways to express age-old emotions.

TM: Explain the biggest difference between an artist such as yourself and cover artists?

AD: Well, I do perform covers of other artists’ songs in my live performances -- which I enjoy doing very much! If I am

understanding your question, though, I would say the difference between an artist like myself who writes, records, and performs her original music, and a cover artist who mainly records/performs others’ original music is that I have the freedom to do what I want with my music. I can sing the lyrics however I want, and change the style up whenever I want to and it’s ok. I cannot rightfully be criticized about my choices because I AM the originator of the song. I cannot be compared to someone who sang it “better” because if they did, they were probably singing it wrong (lol).Cover artists have the challenge of remaining true to the original while making it their own at the same time -- crazy right? They also have to be able to relate to the lyrics and emotional source of any songs that they did not create, so that they can realize/relay the same emotion that was conveyed in the original song. I commend those artists who are able to do this.

TM: What else can we expect from you in the future (upcoming performances, album releases, etc)?AD: I am in the process of completing an acoustic/un-plugged version of my Somethin’ More album, which is scheduled for release on Thursday, June 20. It will be available for download at http://www.ashleydu-bose.com/.Upcoming Performances:Friday, June 7 - KMOJ’s Tite@Nite presents Ashley DuBose and The Lioness! At The Cabooze in Minne-apolis. Doors open at 9pm, music starts at 10pm.Saturday, June 15 - Performing at The Cedar with Manifest (I will be opening the show!)Friday, June 21 - Performance at the Amsterdam Bar in Downtown St. Paul, MN. Doors open at 8pm, show starts at 10:30pmIf you haven’t already done so, y’all need to check out this talented up and coming artist, Ashley DuBose, online and via her youtube channel. YouTube Channel (3 music videos) http://www.you-tube.com/missashleyduboseTwitter: http://www.ashleydubose.com/ashleyduboseFaceBook: http://www.facebook.com/ashleydu-bosemusicListen and download album at http://www.ashleydu-bose.com

Matthew Schultz

Matthew Schultz is making major moves in the music industry! He is Ranked #1 in the US on the Reverbnation Charts and #2 in the world! He was recently featured on Kendrick Lamar’s Mixtape and has com-pleted his new hit single with Hip-Hop legend, Jim Jones! His EP was just included in lavish gift baskets for both 2013 Grammy Awards, MTV Video Awards the Oscars..Raised in Jersey and earlier in his career Matthew hooked with former

American Idol contestant and close friend Chris Daughtry to form a band. He attended Montclair University and graduat-ed with an award for the highest grade point average in all division sports in 2003. He then pursued a career in financ-ing and became a Vice President of the largest independent banks in New Jersey! Crazy right?! How many musician/artists are Bank Presidents? I don’t know any-IJS! Matthew’s musical style is most definitely cutting edge fusing a hypnotic hip-hop groove with his own unique

trademark guitar sounds. Listening to his sound we get why many of his fans think his vibe is like a new age/hip hop John-ny Cash.We’d be the first to agree. Let’s check in...

Photographer: Lucas John Apice

Matthew Schultz, from playing with Chris Daughtry to Hip Hop? Yep!By Lydia King

Photographer :Lucas John Apice

TRU: Matthew, I have to say I’m really digging that new joint with Jim Jones “Money or Me”. You’ve got this certain “swagger” about you. Kind of a James Dean meets Thicke, and it’s kind of crazy but you even remind me of a new school Adam Ant (I’m old school).Your sound is totally unique. I can see why they are having a hard time putting you into a box. What do you attribute this abstract musical style of yours to? A: I love and respect James Dean and Robin Thicke so much, that is quite a compliment. I have such a genuine love for all music. When I was young I fell in love with the guitar and loved playing with my uncles at family functions. I also grew up listening to rap and hip-hop. When I was a little older I played in a Rock band with Chris Daughtry. This combination of musical styles, plus my passion for all music, really shaped my musical style today. TRU: How did you happen to get the Kendrick Lamar mix tape gig? A: I got voted to be on the mix tape by my fans, I was extremely excited that I was selected and featured on the mix tape that Kendrick hosted. Since then I was also selected to be on Mac Millers new mix tape, featured with some of the biggest artists in the industry on that mix tape as well. TRU: Do you write most or all of your own music? A: Yes, I write most of my music in collaboration with my amazing producer Armando Guarnera and his talented daughter Alessia Guarnera. TRU: What do you like to write about, what’s the message you want fans to derive from your music? A: I write about real life stuff like relationships, love, financial struggle…Things everyone can relate to! I just want my music to be felt. If my music can help people relate or escape, that really means a lot to me, and means that I am really touching my fans. TRU: What has inspired you to fuse your sound with Rap and Hip Hop? A: I grew up listening to rap and hip hop and I loved it. All the songs that I started writing with my producer Armando is rock sounding- with catchy guitar riffs and solo’s, but they have this Hip-Hop groove and beat. This makes it ideal for Hip-Hop artists to feature and rap on. I love that I am able to create that sound that can feature so many amazing artists. TRU: So, do you feel as if you are openly “accepted” in the Rap/Hip-Hop community, or do you feel there is a bit of separatism due to the style of music you’re bringing to the scene? A: I think that I am accepted, not as a Hip-Hop artist per say, but I feel that I am accepted in the community overall because of the music that I am putting out there. Along with the collaborations I have with some of the biggest legends in the Hip-Hop industry, like Jim Jones. My music has been very well received and I have been blessed with positive reviews and feedback on the music I am creating. TRU: Thats a good look! If you could team up to do a collaboration with any other artist in the industry who would it be and why?A: Drake or Lil Wayne, those are two of my favorite Hip-Hop artists in the industry, and I think their style and brilliant creativity would be a perfect fit for my style of music! TRU: Hmmm, yeah I can see that. O.K. so while doing my research I found that you have some film and video work on your resume, what’s next on the agenda?A: My main goal right now is to finish my full album this year. Other than that, I am hopeful that my music will also open the doors overall for my acting and entertainment career. TRU: That’s whats up! How else can we keep up with you?A: Follow me on twitter @mschultz33 and like my Facebook fan page under Matthew Schultz. Be sure to check out my Reverbnation page and download exclusive new releases; http://www.reverbnation.com/matthewschultzofficial TRU: When is the next video coming out and where can we see you perform at?A: I am looking forward to shooting my new video for my next single “Right Heart, Wrong Time” along with the remix from Pitbull’s camp, with a feature from Mr. 305 Records artist David Rush and producer Pointblank. I am working on finishing a full album over the next several months, but I will keep everyone posted on any videos, performances, and appearances.

What a charismatic guy. We like Matthew. He’s The TRU.th. Go check him out and see for yourself!.

TRU: Matthew, I have to say I’m really digging that new joint with Jim Jones “Money or Me”. You’ve got this certain “swagger” about you. Kind of a James Dean meets Thicke, and it’s kind of crazy but you even remind me of a new school Adam Ant (I’m old school).Your sound is totally unique. I can see why they are having a hard time putting you into a box. What do you attribute this abstract musical style of yours to? A: I love and respect James Dean and Robin Thicke so much, that is quite a compliment. I have such a genuine love for all music. When I was young I fell in love with the guitar and loved playing with my uncles at family functions. I also grew up listening to rap and hip-hop. When I was a little older I played in a Rock band with Chris Daughtry. This combination of musical styles, plus my passion for all music, really shaped my musical style today. TRU: How did you happen to get the Kendrick Lamar mix tape gig? A: I got voted to be on the mix tape by my fans, I was extremely excited that I was selected and featured on the mix tape that Kendrick hosted. Since then I was also selected to be on Mac Millers new mix tape, featured with some of the biggest artists in the industry on that mix tape as well. TRU: Do you write most or all of your own music? A: Yes, I write most of my music in collaboration with my amazing producer Armando Guarnera and his talented daughter Alessia Guarnera. TRU: What do you like to write about, what’s the message you want fans to derive from your music? A: I write about real life stuff like relationships, love, financial struggle…Things everyone can relate to! I just want my music to be felt. If my music can help people relate or escape, that really means a lot to me, and means that I am really touching my fans. TRU: What has inspired you to fuse your sound with Rap and Hip Hop? A: I grew up listening to rap and hip hop and I loved it. All the songs that I started writing with my producer Armando is rock sounding- with catchy guitar riffs and solo’s, but they have this Hip-Hop groove and beat. This makes it ideal for Hip-Hop artists to feature and rap on. I love that I am able to create that sound that can feature so many amazing artists. TRU: So, do you feel as if you are openly “accepted” in the Rap/Hip-Hop community, or do you feel there is a bit of separatism due to the style of music you’re bringing to the scene? A: I think that I am accepted, not as a Hip-Hop artist per say, but I feel that I am accepted in the community overall because of the music that I am putting out there. Along with the collaborations I have with some of the biggest legends in the Hip-Hop industry, like Jim Jones. My music has been very well received and I have been blessed with positive reviews and feedback on the music I am creating. TRU: Thats a good look! If you could team up to do a collaboration with any other artist in the industry who would it be and why?A: Drake or Lil Wayne, those are two of my favorite Hip-Hop artists in the industry, and I think their style and brilliant creativity would be a perfect fit for my style of music! TRU: Hmmm, yeah I can see that. O.K. so while doing my research I found that you have some film and video work on your resume, what’s next on the agenda?A: My main goal right now is to finish my full album this year. Other than that, I am hopeful that my music will also open the doors overall for my acting and entertainment career. TRU: That’s whats up! How else can we keep up with you?A: Follow me on twitter @mschultz33 and like my Facebook fan page under Matthew Schultz. Be sure to check out my Reverbnation page and download exclusive new releases; http://www.reverbnation.com/matthewschultzofficial TRU: When is the next video coming out and where can we see you perform at?A: I am looking forward to shooting my new video for my next single “Right Heart, Wrong Time” along with the remix from Pitbull’s camp, with a feature from Mr. 305 Records artist David Rush and producer Pointblank. I am working on finishing a full album over the next several months, but I will keep everyone posted on any videos, performances, and appearances.

What a charismatic guy. We like Matthew. He’s The TRU.th. Go check him out and see for yourself!.

I have just finished a wonderful book about the pressures faced by minorities (particularly blacks) in American society today. I first noticed the book while in my Multicultural Literature class. The title “Why Are All the Black Kids Sitting Together in the Cafeteria” really stuck out.

The book is written by an African American female by the name of Beverly Daniel Tatum. Tatum majors in psy-chology and has even taught a college level class on the very subject in this book.

I found the books content to be enlightening and very interesting. It makes you think about things that never occurred to you before such as racial identity and how it affects the choices you make daily. The book focus-es heavily on parallels between primarily black and white U.S citizens. In addition this piece of literature also takes a few chapters to address other issues facing other minority groups such as Latinos and Pacific Island-ers.

Though this book may seem initially targeted at college level minority students I believe that Caucasian/ White students will benefit the most from the book’s contents. One of the books main focuses is “White Privilege”. For those of you that do not know “White Privilege” is a term used to define the benefits that whites receive simply because of their skin color. Some of these privileges are subtle and the majority of whites don’t seem to be even aware that they receive any kind of special privileges. That is why I believe this book would benefit members of the white community the most. Though there is plenty of material in the book that is equally insightful for minority readers such as the chapter on Affirmative Action and the affects of having a biracial household.

This book has affected my life a lot. It’s made me think about things that have never truly occurred to me. I must stress that this book is not an easy read. I would only recommend it to college level individuals and above due to the books use of complex language and higher thought process. It is highly recommend for those that wish to become more proactive in changing the way minorities are treated in American society.

If you are interested in getting a sneak peak at the book I have included a link below. This book is a worthwhile read for any individual and I hope you get as much out of it as I did.

Book ReviewChristian Lee Age 18College StudentVeterinary Science

“WHY ARE ALL THE BLACK KIDS SITTING TOGETHER IN THE CAFETERIA'

Can you share with us your first memory as a professional? My first memory as a professional was in Yakima Washington. I gave up an 0-2 double off the wall to start off the inning but proceeded to strike out the side after that. I was a reliever my first half season to keep my innings down, it was a lot of fun.

Do you have any rituals or superstitions before or during a game? I don’t really believe in Supersti-tions. I just have my routine. From warming up to throwing I find something that gets me ready for the game and stick with that.

What pitches are in your throwing rotation? I throw a 2 Seam, 4Seam FB, Changeup, Slider, and Curveball

What did you do during the off-season? I worked out hard this off-season. We had out workouts at the stadium in Scottsdale and 4 times a week I would do “two a Days”. This is a big year for me.

What players inspired you as a kid? Loved watching Roger Clemens and Pedro Martinez. I was a Big Red Sox fan and those were two of the best.

At what age did you start playing baseball? And did you play on any travel teams. I started playing at the age of 3 but played most all sports. I started playing travel ball around 13.

What part of your game do you feel like you need to improve upon? I learn something new every year. When you think you know it all you are sure in trouble haha. For me it’s refining the pitches I have and controlling every one of them. Last year my control wasn’t what it should have been. It’s back now tho!

What is your favorite movie? My favorite movie is Boondock Saints

What is your favorite candy? My favorite Candy is a Snickers. Why wait?

When you were a rookie with the Diamondbacks did they have any hazing rituals for pitchers? Rookies usually dress up the last road trip of the year. I was lucky enough to show my bod off in a speedo.

I heard you have a dog name Rawlings, what type of dog is it? Rawlings is a Pitbull/Boxer crazy dog.

Favorite ballpark food? Probably the Garlic Fries at AT&T.

Favorite restaurant in Stockton, and in Phoenix? And what do your order? In Stockton my favorite restaurant is probably BJ’s and in Az it’s in Scottsdale called Sapporo. It’s a sushi spot. AWESOME..

Name 5 songs in your Ipod that you have on repeat right now? I’m terrible with song titles but I’m hooked on Avicii & have always listened to Eminem. I listen to pretty much anything though.

Do you like any other sports besides baseball? I love all sports but two favorites are probably golf and football. I miss my football days but get plenty of time on the golf course.

Barry Enright was drafted out of Pepperdine University by the Arizona Diamondbacks in the second round of the 2007 draft. The right-handed pitcher made his major league debut on June 30, 2010, pitching five innings earning a win against the St. Louis Cardinals.

Enright, started his second season with the Reno Aces, the Diamondbacks’ Triple-A affiliate. While playing with the Aces, Enright had a good season earning a record of 9-5 last season. On July 24, 2012, Enright was traded to the Los Angeles Angels. Enright made his first start with Angels on April 30, 2013 surrendered a two-run walk-off home run to Oakland Athletics slugger Brandon Moss in the nineteenth inning. Enright started the 2013 season appearing in two starts and two relief appearances for the Halos. After a disappointing start to the season was assigned to the club’s Triple-A affiliate.

As a kids reporter I think it is very important that you understand the game and statistics of the sport and each player. This information is generally cov-ered by many adult reporters and broadcasters so I have personally chosen to focus my interviews on the more personal parts of a players life. I want to ask the questions that other kids my age want to know along with questions that I think my reader might be interested in. So I am proud to share my interview with Los Angeles pitcher Barry Enright.

Haley SmilowTru. Magazine Jr. Sports ReporterAge 11 One on One

with Barry Enright

Sports Wrap-up with Haley

Can you share with us your first memory as a professional? My first memory as a professional was in Yakima Washington. I gave up an 0-2 double off the wall to start off the inning but proceeded to strike out the side after that. I was a reliever my first half season to keep my innings down, it was a lot of fun.

Do you have any rituals or superstitions before or during a game? I don’t really believe in Supersti-tions. I just have my routine. From warming up to throwing I find something that gets me ready for the game and stick with that.

What pitches are in your throwing rotation? I throw a 2 Seam, 4Seam FB, Changeup, Slider, and Curveball

What did you do during the off-season? I worked out hard this off-season. We had out workouts at the stadium in Scottsdale and 4 times a week I would do “two a Days”. This is a big year for me.

What players inspired you as a kid? Loved watching Roger Clemens and Pedro Martinez. I was a Big Red Sox fan and those were two of the best.

At what age did you start playing baseball? And did you play on any travel teams. I started playing at the age of 3 but played most all sports. I started playing travel ball around 13.

What part of your game do you feel like you need to improve upon? I learn something new every year. When you think you know it all you are sure in trouble haha. For me it’s refining the pitches I have and controlling every one of them. Last year my control wasn’t what it should have been. It’s back now tho!

What is your favorite movie? My favorite movie is Boondock Saints

What is your favorite candy? My favorite Candy is a Snickers. Why wait?

When you were a rookie with the Diamondbacks did they have any hazing rituals for pitchers? Rookies usually dress up the last road trip of the year. I was lucky enough to show my bod off in a speedo.

I heard you have a dog name Rawlings, what type of dog is it? Rawlings is a Pitbull/Boxer crazy dog.

Favorite ballpark food? Probably the Garlic Fries at AT&T.

Favorite restaurant in Stockton, and in Phoenix? And what do your order? In Stockton my favorite restaurant is probably BJ’s and in Az it’s in Scottsdale called Sapporo. It’s a sushi spot. AWESOME..

Name 5 songs in your Ipod that you have on repeat right now? I’m terrible with song titles but I’m hooked on Avicii & have always listened to Eminem. I listen to pretty much anything though.

Do you like any other sports besides baseball? I love all sports but two favorites are probably golf and football. I miss my football days but get plenty of time on the golf course.

If you weren’t playing baseball what else could you see yourself doing? I probably would be coaching somewhere or doing something that helps younger kids out.

At Pepperdine University you have the record for fewest walks allowed per nine innings with 1.58, what are some of your other accomplishments your proud of? There are a few. A lot have to do with my team also. I was fortunate to have a lot of Wins there but to me that’s a team accomplish-ment, which makes it even better.

Do you have a nickname that teamates/fans call you? Usually Red, Big Red or Ginger, they all work for me haha.

What advise would you give to today’s youth? I would tell the youth to play as many sports as possible growing up until you HAVE to decide on one. Playing everything growing up really helped me become a better athlete.

One on One with

Barry Enright

Sports Wrap-up with Haley

A young super hero is taking the world by storm and he goes by the name of Supa Chad. His super powers consist of providing energy for all those who want to sing, rap, dance and have fun while doing so. Supa Chad’s mission is to bring peace to the world by way of music, letting everyone in the world know that it’s okay to be a kid.

Chadarien Daniels, known as “Supa Chad” is a 9 year old child prodigy from Tyler Texas. Performing since the age of 7, his musical talent was noticed at his local community church, which led to performing at community talent shows and school performances. Word begin to spread about the talented young phenomenon who could sing, rap and dance which lead to a national television spot on BET’s 106 & Park in May 2012, debuting his music video “I’m A Kid” as the new joint of the day.Follow-ing his introduction on BET’s 106 & Park, “Supa Chad” has over 85,000 followers on twitter and his music video for “I’m A Kid” has over 100,000 views on YouTube and opening for superstars like “Mindless Behavior” is positive proof that “Supa Chad” is linned up to be the world’s next kid super star!

Here’s Chadarien......

Q: Supa Chad is quite a name. How did it come about?A: Supa Chad name came about. Well I have a song called Super Chad. My aunt thought it would be a good ideal to change it one day she was siting in a airport in Atlanta. So she call my producer and asked him what he thinks.He was like Super Chad he said it was corny. She said no if you spell it Supa Chad it’s hot. He was like cool. But I was still Lil Chad to him. By the way his name is Yung Chill.And the Supa Chad name was bornQ: How are you keeping good grades up with such a busy schedule?A: I really pay attention in class for the good grades and I read a lot.

Q: We understand you’ve got over 85,000 followers on twitter and over 100,000 views on YouTube. Wow, that’s impressive. How did you become so popularA: I became popular by staying humble, being nice to people, working hard and put-ting out good music.Showing up for my shows and showing out

So what’s up with this Super Kid named Supa Chad?

Cont’ on pg 68

Q: Chad, you sing, rap and dance, what inspired you to become an artist and how do you get prepared for your performances? A: Disney just watching those kids on there made me think like I can do that. I jump around get in my zone that’s how I get prepared for performances Q: What projects do you have coming up?A: The projects that I have coming up is the Bully project . I have this really hot Bully song to stop bulling its an issue that I’m taking a stand for. Supa Chad takes a stand for the kids. My aunt book my shows, I just open up for the OMG Girls before that Mindless Behavior . I will be posting for my up coming shows. We are out here in LA to-day so the People will get to know who Supa Chad is

Q: Where and when can we see you perform and find your music at?A: As for as finding my music you can get it on iTunes , Music Choice, YouTube and follow me on Twitter @SupaChad my website is www.SupaChad.com you know that I must say thanks for having me True

NAMED SUPER CHADCONT FROM PG 66

Just JustinJr. ReporterTrumagazine.comAge 15

Striving to be your best at everything can be a tedious and monotonous task,but in the end the reward can be pretty great. some things you will find out is that your peers or guardians will regard you with a some-what higher standard. Another thing to expect to notice for yourself is that you’ll accomplish tasks faster, more efficiently and overall.. better

Yeah, we all know that sounds good in all but, when it comes down to it how many of us teenagers are willing to do more than play video games, eat and talk to our friends, right? Well of course, that’s the way we wish it would be.

But then theirs parents. yes those people you sometimes less consider them to be guardians, but more along the thought of random annoying nats who stay on your back JUST because they can. While when you just sit down and think about it, what are they usually saying to us?1:Do it over2:Not good enough3:I could of down it better if I had just done it myself

When you really think about that message when you hear those words what is it saying? TRY YOUR BEST. and I know how us teenagers think they dont know what their talking about and just babble about, but it does seem they have the best interest for us.(As seen in paragraph 1)

The overall moral of the story is just to...yea wait for it.... TRY YOUR BEST! It will eventually pay off.

And just remember- I’m not a psychologist but I try~ Just Justin

PUT YOUR BEST FOOT FORWARD