2

For Connoisseurs & Conscious Living

This magazine is called

TWELVE to note its

monthly presence, only

TWELVE times a year.

Also, and more impor-

tantly, TWELVE is a symbol

of time. So it represents

timely information and the

central point by which life

events are measured. And

of course, timepieces are

part of the finer things,

perfect for our core read-

ers in pursuit of sophisti-

cated living.

Welcome to TWELVE.

3

Welcome to No. IX!

Who’s #READY for some football? I know

Kansas City is ready. You won’t find a

stronger fan base in the nation than Chiefs

fans. With that in mind, we’ve created this

issue, the RED Book, as a salute to the Chiefs

and an aide to fans nationwide.

In this issue, we also reveal some of the

TWELVE magazine team, the folks that bring

you KC each month, in vivid color. Also, as

we approach the new Fall season, we brought

KC’s style community together as a resource

for those planning those new school and

work looks.

As always, we highlight the people to watch,

key tips and places to go. So enjoy the features.

Remember, this is your magazine. You have an opportunity to contribute to the content by

writing, submitting story suggestions, and of course, attending the launch events and more.

Contact us at twelve@kcsoul.com to get involved and send us feedback, too!

Sincerely,

Ken L

KC CHIEFS ARE #READY

COVER

KC Chiefs

DON’T MISS

Chiefs Schedule pg. 50

INSIDE

Ted McKnight 10

Football Guide 14

Dexter DMC 16

12 Team 27

EXEC Feature 30

DBowe 68

CHEER 76

SEPTEMBER 2013 Volume I, Issue IX

Though a lifestyle publication isn’t unique, TWELVE evolves the genre. It’s the only magazine

that you both read and live. We set out to create more than a literary piece. We’ve merged

both the online world and the live event into the “magazine experience”. Once a month, we

release a new issue of the magazine. The release is paired with a live launch event on First

Fridays, where the feature elements and characters of our magazine are brought to life for

you to touch, taste, feel and experience. The live experience becomes part of gathering

ground of additional stories, photos, and more for the final written magazine.

What’s Different? Read It & Experience it Live

kcsoul.com @TWELVEKC

TWELVE Magazine is

part of the KCSoul.com

network. Owned by

H.G.E. Marketing, LLC.

(H.G.E.). Views & opin-

ions expressed here

are not necessarily

those of H.G.E. or

contributors.

4

5

SPECIAL THANKS

To all of Our Writers, Designers,

Planners, Contributors,

Advertisers & Supporters of Xii.

Ken L.

Join the team: Email: twelve@kcsoul.com

Tierra Allan

Shemeka Cockrem

H. Ervin Photography

W. Sarah Fletcher

DJ Franklin

Antisha Gaitan

Eric Harland

Andre Hayes

Rhenate Hodges

Jasmine Jackson

Raye Jackson

Stefan Jones

Katrina Leonard

Clarence Lomax

Iman Lott

Sherry Lumpkins

LeAndrea Mack

Randi McCreary

Carlanda McKinney

Gary Mitchell

Casie Murff

Tiffaney Oakes

Corey Phillips

Miko Richardson

Earl Smith

LaToya Traylor

Tony Van Trece

Michele Watley

India Williams

Jessikha Williams

Christopher White

twelve@kcsoul.com

RED BOOK SPECIAL THANKS:

Ambassador Hotel

Co-Ed Inc

Fly Society

LJ Plan for Me

Wall Street Group

6

7

8

hen we think about getting fit, what

enemy comes to mind? Fat, right?

How did it get here? How is it affect-

ing me? How in the world do I get rid of it? These

questions constantly bombard those of us who strive

to be healthy, long, and lean. Is the solution as simple

as eliminating fat? Are all types of fat bad? Despite

negative reviews, critics, statistics, and the all around

bad rap fat gets, the reality is that all fat is not created

equal. Killer fat is where we need to focus the fight.

According to the new report from the United Nations,

America is the second fattest country in the world,

with over 31% of adults classified as obese. Here in the

Kansas City metro, 29.5% of adults are classified as

obese. Why is fat such a problem in our country, and

more specifically, in Kansas City? Some blame fast-

food, some point at heredity. Whatever the culprit, we

are better equipped to manage it if we know what

we’re dealing with. Our goal is to expose readers to

the different types of fat content that grow in the

body.

We have three types of fat. The first type of fat is sub-

cutaneous which can be found just below the surface

of the skin in the human body. The second type of fat

is intramuscular fat which lies within muscular tissue.

Usually during exercise, it’s this type of fat that serves

as an energy source. The third type, visceral fat, is the

most deadly of them all. Known as toxic fat, it’s the

internal fatty tissue which surrounds vital organs like

the heart, liver, kidney and pancreas.

While the presence of excess fat under the skin

(subcutaneous fat) is often the most visible, toxic fat is

buried deep within us, making it harder to gauge how

much fat we really carry. Scientific studies have shown

that toxic fat is more dangerous than the fat near the

skin due to its release of dangerous levels of chemicals

into the body. This is what leads to heart disease, type

2 diabetes, and many forms of cancer.

So how do we get rid of visceral fat? Here are four

tips to help you combat toxic fat: Eat healthy; include whole grains, fruits, and vegeta-

bles and lean protein

Establish a weekly aerobic exercise routine

Tone your abdominal muscles

Combine strength training with toning exercises

If you’re like many and hate to embark upon the fitness

journey alone, contact Trilogy Sports & Fitness of Kan-

sas City at www.trilogyexplosion.com.

Be Unique

Trilogy Sports & Fitness (l) Chris Westmoreland, Master Fitness Trainer (r) Corey Phillips Founder / Elite Sports Performance Trainer

FAT: The Killing Facts by Gabrielle Phillips

W

9

Lee Langston One of KC’s Top Voices

twelvekc.com

UFFKC

10

I

FANtastic Memories

t’s not hard to identify a true-grit, die-hard

football fan: The painted face masks, and tailgate ses-

sions; the concentration on the screen at all times during the

last few moments of the game; the ability to rattle off a key stats and

scores; and sometimes, there is this--the rare opportunity to sit down

with one of your all-time favorite players and do something that all

fans dream of doing….asking the questions.

Dr. James McCreary, a Kansas City native, has been a Chiefs fan for

as long as he can remember. In his thirties and forties he made a tradi-

tion of going to the games with his father, sisters and brothers. It was

never too cold cheer in the stands of Arrowhead, or too early to tune

into his favorite radio station for the latest highlight commentary. As a

Chiefs fan, James has studied many players over the years, but, when

I

Ted McKnight One-on-One with one

of KC Chiefs Top Running Backs

Story By:

Randi McCreary

Photo:

Antisha Gaitan

Bluvision Photography

11

McKnight: It wasn’t until after high school. I was fast so

they had me as a wide receiver. No one could catch me

due to my speed. As a freshman in college I got beat up

on the field. As a sophomore I began to know my role

and what I could do. That year, I decided to make a

change. No one was going to hit me anymore. When I ran

opposition play, I outran the number one defense and the

coach was furious.

McCreary: When you started with the Chiefs, how did

you know you were better than the average player?

McKnight: The moment I made the team. Because you

don’t make the team if you are an average player. I knew

I had potential to be a workhorse. I wanted to be known

to be counted on no matter what. A work horse. That’s

when I knew that no matter what happened, I was going

to get it down. Mentality.

McCreary: Which is the best quarter of the game?

McKnight: The third. You are coming back fresh. It’s

like a chess game. In the first quarter you sacrifice the

pawns. Fourth quarter is just like a flat battle. If we domi-

nate third quarter, we can win. Everybody is tired.

McCreary: Do you remember your first pro touch down?

McKnight: I don’t remember my first, but I remember

one that became a highlight: Playing against Colts in KC,

one yard play. I went off-tackle and ended up 70 yards to

break a long distance record. My first pro carry of the

football. I was scared to death. It was the Raiders vs. the

Houston Oilers. It was so loud I was wondering how I

was going to hear the cadence. That’s where the training

comes in. You don’t think. You just react. After the first

hit, I was ok.

McCreary: What was your hardest hit by an opponent?

given the chance to sit down with one of his favorite

players, it was Ted McKnight that came to mind.

Ted McKnight is no stranger to the impact of a fan. In the

early stages of his career, he recalls the moment that he

knew he had gained recognition.

“ I had just come from the Raiders, shortly after the Su-per Bowl. I was asked to play a pickup game of softball. When I got there, I figured there had to have been a traf-fic accident due to the squad cars and police officers…but it was ten thousand people ready to watch a game between the Raiders and local teachers on the softball league. That showed me hardcore fans.”

McKnight recalls moments on the field as well, when

fans were so loud he could hardly hear the play. In fact,

McKnight believes fans can be so dedicated that they can

actually change a game plan.

Ted McKnight, running back for the Kansas City Chiefs

from 1977-1983, was known as a powerhouse for the

Kansas City Chiefs during his reign. His combination of

force and focus are what make him noteworthy for

McCreary.

The two men, McCreary the fan and McKnight, the for-

mer player, had a chance to sit down and converse:

McCreary : You were drafted by Raiders. How did you

come to Chiefs?

McKnight: I was competing against men that had just

won the Superbowl. This included Terry Robiski. You

know, you had the who’s who of the NFL. I came in as a

speed merchant, very fast. I’d injured my shoulder and

got waived to Kansas City, Missouri.

McCreary: When did you find out you could really put a

move on someone and they couldn’t hold you?

Classic Chiefs vs. Raiders match-up. Ted, #22; #65, Tom Condon; Raider Rod

Martin; and the Chiefs Arnold Morgado, #21.

12

McKnight: We played against the Denver Broncos. It

was when Tom Jackson was announcing. I remember

playing in Denver. I got ball it was off-tackle play, and

like my uncle said, “green lights and blue sky” I was go-

ing for it. All of a sudden, I remember falling down and

bouncing up, running for five or ten yards and collapsing.

Jackson hit my ribs so hard I had no idea where the foot-

ball was and I collapsed. It was a hard hit.

McCreary: And what about your best hit on another

player?

McKnight: The Raiders. Mike Davis. I ran over him like

a truck coming into a kid’s playground (smiling)

McCreary: Receiver or Rusher?

McKnight: Rusher

McCreary: Shake and Bake or Straight Ahead?

McKnight: Both. Straight Ahead. Tony Reed was a shake

and bake guy. He could give you a move and come back

later and help you. Making moves so quick you don’t

know unless you watch the film. It’s like George Brett

being able to see a fastball. I have same mentality with

football. If a play was called off-tackle, the center pushed

his man away. I could see that hole and push immedi-

ately. Shake and Bake. For every action is a reaction. Bill

Kenny would laugh because I ran track. I‘d get there so

fast he’d throw ball. The objective is to go first three

steps and be at full speed. Be there at collision. My suc-

cess was to be there at collision.

McCreary: Do you have any running back favorites? McKnight: Marcus Allen, Barry Sanders, Walter Payton,

Jim Brown, first great black players.

Fullback or running back: I was a running back. All pur-

pose.

McCreary: Tell me about the “Class Act”. A lot of people

want to know about that.

McKnight: (Laughing) It was the four of us. Tony Reed,

Walter White, Bobby Bell, myself. We were trying to do

something special for alumni dinners. Linda Bell, went to

Walter and said ‘can you think of some guys that would

put on a dance routine like temptations?’ We went

through the guys that could dance. Bobby Bell was asked

to be a part of it and Linda got the Temptations music.

Everyone had their own piece where they got to break out

like soul train. We wore tuxedos and the group was

called The Class Acts. We ended up doing it twice.

McCreary: Was it hard to leave football?

McKnight: Yes. It was more than a game. It’s a culture

and lifestyle. You become a frat. You fight, bleed, to-

gether. You are tough guys that are very emotional. I

remember seeing some of the biggest men (get emo-

tional). July is hardest because they go back to camp.

Some never get over it. Some take three years.

I played hard and I was a good guy. I still appreciate fans

and the cards to sign. If people could remember that I

played the game. I’d like to be remembered as a class act.

13

14

Today, you’ll find both

men and women who

enjoy football. Still, oth-

ers see it as a complex

game with several lay-

ers of rules that make it

difficult to follow. For

the woman who’d like

to take an interest and

learn the game and

even for the men, who

could use a tune-up to

have a better conversa-

tional knowledge of

football, this is for you.

Overall Concept The team that is trying to score

has “possession of the ball” and is considered the offense. The other team, which is considered defense, is trying to stop the offensive team

from scoring.

Sounds easy enough, but in foot-ball, there are offensive, defensive, and special teams which are all

part of the same team. These teams handle different situations on the field so each time the ball

moves to their opponent, a differ-

ent team is needed. For instance, when the KC Chiefs are trying to score a touchdown,

they utilize their offensive players

like Jamaal Charles, Dwayne Bowe or Alex Smith. When the Chiefs are trying to stop the other team

from scoring they utilize their de-

fensive players like Derrick Johnson and Brandon Flowers. If this isn’t confusing enough, they have a spe-

cial team that comes in to kick

field goals and punt.

Scoring The team that gets their ball into the “End Zone” gets a touchdown which earns them 6 points. This

happens by either running the ball into the end zone or by catching the ball in the end zone. After a

touchdown, the team has the choice of either kicking the ball between the goal post (located at

the end zone) or they can line up at the 2 yard line and run or catch

the ball in the end zone for 2 extra

points(Two-Point Conversion).

(Continued on page 22)

Terence Berger

Live at the IMPROV July 11, 2013

Football

Quick

Guide

Tired of watching a

game without having

a clue about what’s

going on?

LeAndrea

Mack

15

16

READY

Dexter McCluster #22 KC Chiefs.

Words, LeAndrea Mack

Pics, Raye Jackson

TWELVEKC.COM

17

18

A Veteran Dexter McCluster figured out pretty quickly that

Kansas City loves football and is loyal to the home-

team, The Kansas City Chiefs! Since joining the or-

ganization in 2009 as a rookie, the well-rounded

Running Back, Return Specialist and Wide Receiver

soaked up the culture and fell in love with the idea

of being a KC Chief! At the start of his 4th season

with the Chiefs, he exclaims, “I feels like a veteran

in this game and am psyched and ready for the

2013 season!”

New Beginnings There have been many obstacles and a number of

significant changes to mark the new season; a

new general manager, the tragic losses surrounding

a teammate, and the trades and new faces on the

team. Yet, with positivity vibrating visibly through

him, McCluster states that he is motivated by the

changes and excited about the new beginnings that

this season will bring.

KC Chiefs Fans--The Best Fans Walking onto the field at Arrowhead Stadium in

Kansas City and hearing the thunderous volume of

eager, excited, and vociferous fans is one of

McCluster’s favorite things about Chiefs fans. He

says, “Chiefs fans are very loud and hype. They

make sure that our opponents can hear them. I

love the enthusiasm because it spills onto me.”

Preparation

To prepare in the off-season, McCluster kept his

body in shape and began a “healthier liv-

ing” regimen. He explains that his mindset has ma-

tured for a variety of reasons and with the birth of

his second child, he is more motivated and deter-

mined than ever. He also shared with Twelve Maga-

zine that if he got another contract with the Chiefs

he would even contemplate cutting off his dread-

locks!

Eagerness and Anticipation McCluster is extremely optimistic about the out-

look for the team this year. He feels that the fans

will see a team that is ready to win and highly capa-

ble. His smile revealed his eagerness and anticipa-

tion as he discussed his excitement to show the

world his development and dedication this season.

DMC Style

19

MAGAZINE

DMC Style

20

DMC, The

Other Side We all know that

he is a great offen-

sive weapon that

will inch our KC

Chiefs to victory…

but did you know

he has other tal-

ents?

In addition to his

athletic prowess,

McCluster can

croon. He’s been

singing since he

was about nine

years old. Even as

he determined that

football gave him

more opportunities

and, thus, became

his focus, singing

remained a passion.

So, this year we

will get to experi-

ence this other

talent as he de-

buts DMC, the

other side, an R&B

collection of sexy

ballads about love,

life, and relation-

ships. Music is a big

part of McCluster’s

life and he wants

his fans to know

this side of him,

too.

Twelve Magazine

wishes Dexter

McCluster all suc-

cess in his future

endeavors and

can’t wait to see

what he does

on and off the field

this season!

TWELVE MAGAZINE

21

DMC | MUSIC

By Iman Lott

Entertaining, talented, multidimensional are all

words that describe Dexter McCluster’s skills on

the field but soon these phrases will be as-

cribed to his off field efforts, as well. Dexter is

pursuing a music career and I was fortunate

enough to preview some of the songs that

comprise his first project.

The smooth vocals and amazing production

collaborations will surely earn Dexter legiti-

macy and acclaim in the music industry. His

vocal energy is undeniably compelling and

his wide range draws you into the lyrics. From

what I’ve heard, he has nowhere to go but up.

Stay tuned.

22

If a team doesn’t think they will make the touch-

down they also have the option to kick a field goal (kicking the ball in between the goal post located

at the end zone) which will give them 3 points.

Downs Downs are the length of one play: a start and stop. The offense (team with the ball) has 4 chances (or downs) to move the ball 10 yards toward the end

zone. If they get 10 yards in a single play then they

earn a first down (4 more chances or downs). However, if they don’t get “a first” (10 yards in a

single play), they are down a chance and have 3 or

the remaining number of plays left.

Remember, the defensive team will be working to prevent the opponents from moving the ball

down the field.

Here’s a little more detail on downs to clarify

downs and some of the terms you’ll hear like 3rd

and 8, or 2nd and 3 means?

3rd is the number of downs and 8 means the num-

ber of yards to go to earn another first down.

If the team doesn’t move 10 yards in 4 downs then

the other team automatically gets the ball. Usually once a team gets to their 4th down, they either kick a field goal for the 3 points or they punt the

ball so that it is further away from the other

team’s end zone.

THE TEAM There are 11 men from each team allowed

on the field at one time. Here are their posi-

tions:

Offense

Center: In the center of the offensive line. Starts the play by “hiking” the ball to the quarterback. This position places the ball on the ground be-

tween his legs and passes it backward, which is

called the “snap”. Quarterback: Very important player to re-member because he executes the plays the coach decides, or calls an “audible” if he thinks he needs

(Continued from page 14) to change the play on the field. He’s the guy

that catches that snap from the center. He ei-

ther runs, throws, or hands off the ball.

Offensive guard: A blocker, positioned on

either side of the center.

Offensive tackle: A blocker, positioned on

either side of the guards.

Tight end: Plays next to the tackle. Hybrid

player—used as a blocker or wide receiver

Wide receiver: Receives a pass down the

field.

Running back: Runs the ball down the field.

Fullback: Does everything! Runs, blocks, AND

they receives. (Talented guys aren't they?)

Defense Nose guard: Positioned across from offensive

team’s center and blocks plays down the center

of the field.

Defensive tackle: Rushes the passer.

Defensive end: Blocks plays on the outside

edges.

Linebacker: Covers the receivers and rushes

the passers .

Cornerback:: Blocks the wide receivers.

Safety: The defensive team’s last line of de-

fense! There are usually two safeties: Strong safety: He is the stronger of the two and

blocks runs. Free safety: He is the faster of the two and he

blocks passes.

Special teams Used on kicking plays, this team comes out to

kick, punt, get extra points, field goals, etc.

Overloaded? There is so much to the exciting word of foot-

ball that we couldn’t fit it all on these pages but

Xii Magazine hopes that you will be able to use

this as a foundational reference to follow along,

cheer, and celebrate with our KC Chiefs

23

24

25

26

#12MAG | FAMILY PHOTO

27

B ack in it’s hey day, KC was IT! 12th St to the 18th & Vine District were known worldwide-music,

business, nightlife. This is our tribute to what KC was,

can and will be...As a magazine, we’ll cover it. As a

movement, we’ll create it. TWELVE.

Photo, Raye Jackson

28

twelvekc.com

KC’s Own

29

LeAndrea Mack

Eric Harland, photo

WRITE It

30

TED CREWS VP of Communications

KC Chiefs

THE EXEC SUITE

31

ne day I’ll make it to the NFL. It’s a dream among many. Though it

means jerseys for some, it trans-lates suits for others.

There’s a reason we know the Chiefs so

well: Ted Crews. As Vice President of Communications, he leads the office respon-

sible for coordinating the communications from public relations to media, locally and

nationally for the Chiefs. His communica-tions responsibility extends beyond the play-

ers to all organizational and Arrowhead needs. He’s well-seasoned with 16 years of

experience under his belt having served the St. Louis Rams, Atlanta Falcons, and Carolina Panthers. He’s been selected by the NFL to

direct publicity for the Pro Bowl, in Hono-

lulu on five separate occasions and even worked the Super Bowl in 2010 and 2011.

Is your job challenging? “You’ve got a 53

man roster, 20 other personnel, coaches, owners and media to work with and you

have to help blend those separate personali-ties and understand everyone to do your

job. There are challenges, but I enjoy it.”

Getting into the Big Leagues. A corporate position in the NFL is a prize.

“I’m extremely blessed. I get that there are only 31 other people that have my job. I

never lose sight of that.” Crews found his way into this elite fraternity through a solid education from HBCU, South Carolina State

University, and choice summer internships.

What does it take to survive on this level?

“You have to be an effective communicator and if you can’t write, you won’t make it.

That’s the foundation.” A solid education boosts your potential, but Crews believes to

really thrive, you must possess a certain natural talent. “There’s an innate part of

this. The ability to react to people and situa-tions, to be able to script for people and

situations when needed.

Be forewarned that this job never stops. Sure, Chiefs have an off season, but Crews

must manage year-round. “There are early

mornings and late nights. Free agency to OTAs. I work Thanksgiving Day, Christmas

Day. My family knows on those days, we’re going to eat a little later. I also travel with

the team.

Though Crews has spent time with a variety of Clubs, he thinks the Chiefs organization is

special. “We’re at a club that’s a charter franchise member of the league. So when

you have that, you know you’re with a proven brand. You’ve got the Clark family

that has a true passion for this city and team. Mark Donavan and the office staff are sec-

ond to none. Andy Reid is a proven head coach and first class. Even more, the Chiefs organization has a true commitment to com-

munity. I can only say, it’s a great place to be and a great time to be here.”

O

32

“At this time, we ask that you return your trays to the upright position to prepare for landing. Whether business or pleas-ure, we hope you enjoy your stay in Germany.” Just when you thought TWELVE was about Kansas City, we’ve got to go where the passport takes us and we caught up with Brian “BK” Kennedy, across the seas. Brian Kennedy’s name quickly rises to the top among en-tertainment aficionados and industry professionals when you rank the most impressive in music today. And for those who don’t know the name, you’re familiar with his work. He’s a superstar producer having worked with the likes of Ciara, Brandy, Chris Brown, Jesse McCartney, Rihanna, Natasha Bedingfield, BoA, Cheryl Cole, Backstreet Boys, Jamie Foxx, Nelly, Westlife, Joe Jonas, Kelly Clarkson, and Rascal Flatts. With a catalog of music in pop, rock, and country genres, it’s difficult to categorize him or his style. “My style is kind of electronic contemporary, world” he says. But who really needs a genre classification when you’ve got results? BK’s work has garnered him two Grammy awards. Chances are, you’ve danced to his chart-topping hits like "Disturbia" by Rihanna on the "Good Girl Gone Bad: Reloaded" album, or grooved to "Forever," from Chris Brown’s "Exclusive: The Forever Edition" album. He earned his first Grammy in 2009 for his contribution to Oscar winner Jennifer Hudson's self-titled debut album, which earned honors such as Best R&B Album. He’s now working with Cee-Lo, and new artists 2 B 1 and even has his own new project in the works, Digital Love Affair. Most would retire satisfied with such a stellar career. But for Brian, his current success is just the beginning. He continues to evolve. His growth is about diversification. It’s about building an enterprise – no – a brand. “I’m working on taking my ca-reer to the next level, having that Steve Jobs vision.” He says his current success is not even half of what’s in store. He’s building a brand known for talent and success. He founded a publishing company, Team BK. Part of that company includes writers like Dewain Whitmore. “Dewain is one of the top five writers out right now”, says Kennedy. BK is also a real estate owner with his own studio, the Ken-nedy Compound, and leases studio space to the likes of other superstars, like Cee-Lo and Kanye. His name will be synonymous with legends among the annals of music his-tory. If you’ve seen him play, there’s no doubt about what he can create, and thereby, achieve. People like BK estab-lish new boundaries. His passion is about delivering a unique musical experience that stands the test of time. As he describes it, he wants to “mimic the genius” of the greats. It’s even more impressive that he’s not selfish. His

ambition is balanced with character. He wants others to experience success and be an inspiration to those signed to his enterprises and artists worldwide. He’s already launched his “You can do it Too” education series with workshops on the music business and offers his time and expertise for free. His music and praises will be sung for generations. His suc-cess will be a guide book. His travels…well, they will be unceasing and as fellow Kansas Citians, we can always be proud to have been part of the flight.

BK Worldwide

33

Brian Kennedy The Places He’s Been.

The Heights He’ll Achieve.

Watch...No Listen.

34

Sarah Fletcher

CREATE It

35

Shemeka Cockrem

STYLE It

36

By Randi McCreary | Photo: Raye Jackson

ill Shields was known in the NFL as the man

who knew how to outsmart his opponent

like no other. It was not a skill simply ac-

quired on the football field, but an early

understanding that the best games are played with a

strategy. As a player, Shields was strategic, not relying

solely on his physical strength to make things happen,

but also his knowledge and tactical planning.

There is no argument that Shields has a strong, physical

presence, but that isn’t what defines him. “I don’t bench

press 1000 pounds,” Shields admits, ”but when you aren’t

physically gifted, you have to find the intellectual strengths.

The right angles. Physical or mental.”

Shields, an offensive right guard for The Kansas City

Chiefs and twelve-time Pro-Bowler, has seen his share

Will Shields Giving Back

W

37

of reward and success in the NFL. The former right

guard graced the field for a total of two hundred and

forty games. But, a player’s success doesn’t necessarily

have to end when he leaves the professional field. For

Shields, the same passion and drive that it took in the

game, is what it takes to make a meaningful transition

into the next chapter of life.

After leaving the NFL, Shields wanted to continue serv-

ing the community. Already having spent years working

with various charitable founda3.25tions such as The Will

To Succeed Foundation, he knew that there was a need as

(Continued on page 40)

38

Christopher White

STYLE It

39

Gary Mitchell

PROMOTE It

40

Read It.

Wear It.

Dream It.

a father himself, to have a place where his own

children could stay in shape and have fun.

“ I liked the challenge of being on field. Testing

myself,” says Shields. “ I wanted to give others a

chance to bridge together and make things happen.

Give that gift of opportunity to the kids.”

During his thirteen year span playing for The

Kansas City Chiefs, Will Shields made a recog-

nizable name for himself. Today, his goal is to

create an atmosphere that brings athletes to-

gether for a place to embrace health, family and

fitness. For the youth, it was important to give

back. For the community, it was a place that

made it possible to stay in tune with their bod-

ies and minds. This is how 68 Inside Sports be-

came what it is today.

68 Inside Sports, located in Overland Park, Kan-

sas, offers itself to the community as a fitness

and training facility with over fifty classes. From

yoga, pilates, and tai chi to private kick boxing

lessons with a personal trainer, there is some-

thing for everyone.

(Continued from page 37) “It really began with three dads wanting their kids

to have a place to play ball,” he explains. “This is

not just for athletes. It is for all walks of life. Every-

one should be strong. It’s in our innate ability to

become strong. Mental and physical strength offer

different outlets.”

When asked what legacy he would like to be

remembered for, Shields reflected on what it

means to see struggle and help where you can.

“I build on my legacy every year. Now that I’m re-

tired, the philanthropy is having passion and a goal

to help others. The legacy is everything you’ve done,

and you keep building on it.”

With that in mind, Shields continues to build on

new strategies. He would like to expand 68

Inside Sports in the future to four new quad-

rants; acting as smaller versions of the original

facility.

Will Shields had some of his most memorable

moments on the field as a Kansas City Chief,

but proves that beyond your best accomplish-

ments, are still more waiting to be discovered.

Dexter McCluster,

training off-season at

68 Sports with Will Shields

Hands-on training

41

magazine

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2013 Family Day at Chiefs

Training Camp at MO Western

State University in St. Jo-

seph,MO.

57

58

59

60

R

E

A

D

Y

TWELVE MAGAZINE issue preview event, #READY, September 6th, at the Ambassador Hotel,

featuring the Kansas City Chiefs-former and current players. (l. To r. Nate Eachus #45; Dwayne Bowe

#82; artist, Stefan Jones; Dexter McCluster #22; Sean Smith #27; Samie Parker #18)

61

Some of the ladies of TWELVE MAGAZINE

62

#READY | 9.6.13 | TWELVEKC.COM [continued]

63

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64

Coach Smith

Kolby Smith Still in the Game

Words, Iman Lott

Photo, H. Ervin

TWELVEKC.COM

65

alented, young hopefuls have less than a one percent chance of making it to the NFL.

Kolby Smith beat the odds. In 2007, he was drafted by the Kansas City Chiefs in the 5th round.“I liked the organization. If I wasn’t hurt, I believe I would still be in Kansas City as a starter”. The average length of the NFL career is about three and a half seasons. Players leave the game because of injury, voluntary retirement, or after being cut by the team. In the summer of 2010 Kansas City released Smith due to injuries. “I stopped playing because of a torn quad and a torn ankle ligament. With these injuries, I can’t perform at the level the NFL re-quires you to play, to be successful. I was tired of being hurt and ending each year on crutches”. Injuries like these might end most players’ careers,

(Continued on page 67)

Over 1 million people

every year set their sights

on becoming an NFL

player, however, only a fraction

of them will make the cut. “Statistically of the 100,000

high school seniors who play

football every year, only 215 will

ever make an NFL roster. Of

the 9,000 players that make it

to the college level only 310 are

invited to the NFL scouting

combine, the pool from which

teams make their draft picks”.

(NFL Hopefuls, 2013)

T

Kolby Smith, training the next generation.

66

September The Tallest Tree In the Forest Event type: Play Venue: Copaken Stage 13th & Walnut, KCMO Kcrep.org Sat 9/21 Niles Homecoming Through The Decades Event type: Fundraiser Venue: Arrowhead Stadium: 1 Arrow-

head Drive Kansas City MO Time: 7:00 PM - 11:00 PM Producer: Niles Home for Children Contact: Margaret Climie Email:

mclimie@nileshomekc.org Phone: 816-241-3448 Web: www.nileshomekc.org Sat 09/28 Women of Worth (WOW) Conference Event type: Conference Venue: Kauffman Foundation Confer-ence Center: 4801 Rockhill Rd Kansas

City MO Time: 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM Producer: Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority,

Inc., Xi Tau Omega Chapter & Con Contact: AKA - Xi Tau Omega Chapter

Email: aka.xtochapter@gmail.com Fri 10/04 14th Annual WINNING WAYS Event type: Forum/symposium Venue: Gem Theater, Kansas City MO Time: 5:30 PM - 8:30 PM Producer: HGE Fri 10/25 Ruby Red Slippers Gala Event type: Community Action Venue: Grand Street Cafe: 4740 Grand

Ave Kansas City MO Time: 6:00 PM - 11:00 PM Producer: R.U.B.I.E.S., Inc. Contact: Chantell Garrett Email: chantell@rubiesinc.org Phone: 816.607.1031 Web: www.rubiesinc.org Sat 10/26 ICE SCREAM 2 Event type: Party Venue: Uptown Theater: 3700 Broadway

Kansas City MO Time: 8:00 PM - 1:30 AM

Contact: Email: Phone: 816-921-6161 Icescream2.kcsoul.com Sat 11/09 New Dinner Theatre - Never Too Late Event type: Comedy Venue: New Theatre Restaurant: 9229

Foster Overland Park KS Time: 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM Contact: Tracy Ivy Owens Email: towens865@gmail.com Phone: Sat 12/14 A DEBONAIR AFFAIR Event type: Fundraiser Venue: Holiday Inn CoCo Keys: Kansas

City MO Time: 6:00 PM - 11:30 PM Producer: KTK Just for You Events for

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. Contact: Charles Lambert Email: debonairball@gmail.com Phone:

kcsoul.com KCs Urban Source. Add Your Events!

Add your upcoming events and more to kcsoul.com. Just create a login or use your Facebook log-in.

Alpha Phi Alpha on the scene at Xii Magazine’s event, #READY, 9.6.13, at the Ambassador Hotel. They’ve

got a BIG plans for KC. Visit kcsoul.com for all the haps. You don’t want to miss this.

Photo Eric Harland

67

but Smith’s is just getting started. In 2012 he was asked by the University of Arkansas’, then head coach, Bobby Petrino, to be the assistant strength and conditioning coach. “Coaching was never a plan but sometimes God see’s things differently”. Petrino was released from the coaching staff at UA and moved on to be the head coach at Western Kentucky in December of the same year, eventually asking Smith to join him as his running back coach.“He gave me a chance to continue my career in foot-ball on a collegiate level. He offered me a scholarship. He made me a better student and player and now I’m coaching because of him. I know he will make me a better coach”. When asked whether he likes playing or coaching, more, Smith had this to say, “I enjoy playing the game and nothing will ever compare to that, however, what I like most about coaching is helping men excel

(Continued from page 65) as players and as human beings. I enjoy giving back and sharing what was once given to me.” Recently married, Smith and his wife still visit Kansas City at least three times a year to see friends and family.“Kansas City is a sec-ond home to me. I always go back”. The former Chiefs player says he also plans to see a few games on his visits since his protégé, Niles Davis, has recently joined the club as a running back. “I coached him down in Arkansas. I think he will be a good addition to the team and help the Chiefs do well this season. The new coaching staffs are proven winners and players do well under that type of leader-ship”. Looking toward the future, Smith says his ulti-mate goal is to be commissioner of an ath-letic conference or athletic director of a Uni-versity.

68

wayne Bowe realizes he didn’t make it to the top on his own. His grandpar-ents had a lot to do with it. He’s now working to pro-

vide support through his foundation. The Dwayne Bowe Foundation, a chari-table organization located in Kansas City, MO serves as a support system for grandparents raising grandchildren. The foundation will raffle off a specially cus-tomized Dodge Charger granted by Dwayne Bowe in effort to raise funds and awareness for his charity. This raffle started July 2013 and will run through December 2013. The mission of the Dwayne Bowe Foun-dation is to provide support services to preserve the well being of families where the children are being raised by

(Continued on page 70)

Dwayne Bowe Helping Kids Get

The Family Support

They Need!

D

Photo: Justin Olson WPI

69

Enter the raffle to win Dwayne Bowe’s customized Dodge Charger while supporting his foundation.

70

What caused you to start the foundation?

I was raised by my grandparents and I

found away to take the negatives and turn them

into positives. My grandparents were huge influ-

ences throughout my life and such a strong support

system. I want children who are raised by their

grandparents to see that they can overcome the

negatives and achieve all their dreams and aspira-

tions.

What do you think the role of a grandparent is,

even for those who have parents?

I think a major role of a grandparent is to

instill love and values to their grandchildren.

Grandparents have a unique way of showing us

love and always seem to know the right things to

say without saying much at all.

What's the best piece of advice you received from

a grandparent?

The best advice I received was from my

grandfather. He told me the smallest things make

a BIG difference. Keep doing the little things by

respecting your elders and keep your trust in GOD.

Where were you raised--city/state?

Miami, Fl

How often do you talk to your grandparents?

I talk to my grandma more than once a

day...always the first person I call on my way to

work and the last person I call before I lay my

head down.

How will funds be used for the foundation?

In order to qualify for funds, families

must consist of at least one grandparent raising a

grandchild with low or restricted income levels.

The application must be completed by caregiver

and assistance will be based on individual needs

after board review.

GRANDPARENTS RAISING GRANDCHILDREN their grandparents. DBowe gave us some background on this en-deavor:

(Continued from page 68)

The winner of DBowe’s Dodge Charger raf-

fle will be announced December 20,2013 at

the Dwayne Bowe First Annual Reception

hosted by Molle Audi located Kansas City,

MO. This will be a ticketed event open to

the public where they see Dwayne and his

grandmother as they reminisce over his

childhood and why he has dedicated himself

to this purposeful foundation.

For more event details, visit the website

www.db82.org

71

72

t the opening of the NFL pre-season, I met with Samie Parker at a sports bar where a commercial advertising the first pre-season game aired on the 70-

inch TV screen in front of us. His in-stant interest and focus on the commercial was proof of his continued love for the game of foot-

ball. Samie Parker was a 4th round draft pick out of the

University of Oregon and joined the Kansas City Chiefs in 2004. He says, “I was loved and accepted from the first day I came to Kansas City. The team was very family-oriented and we spent a lot of time

together on and off the field. I think this was how we were able to win a lot of games. We just understood

each other.”

After his last season with the Chiefs in 2007, he remained in the NFL as a free agent with the Den-

ver Broncos, Oakland Raiders, Seattle Seahawks and a quick stint with the Carolina Panthers. He found a home with the Las Vegas Locomotives, part of the United Football League (UFL), for 4 years where he

won 2 championships. He also played in the Arena Football League (AFL) with the Chicago Rush and Kansas City Commands.

Samie Parker admits, “I love to compete against other great athletes from around the world and being able to work with others to achieve one common

goal…WINNING!” At 32, Samie Parker’s passion for football has car-ried him to endeavors beyond the field and has

paved the way for a promising future. Today, one of his newest endeavors includes football, but he’s

not competing on a field. Parker was cast as the

stunt double for Morris Chestnut’s football scenes in the upcoming sequel, The Best Man Holiday, scheduled for release on November 15 of this

Samie Parker

Still The Best Man A

TWELVEKC.COM

73

year. He stated ex-

citedly, “I got a chance to interact with all the male

cast members in-cluding a lot of in-teraction with Mor-ris since I was play-

ing him in the foot-ball role. They were all great, down to

earth people and it was a great experi-

ence!”

Parker has also worked with USA Network’s hit show

Necessary Roughness for an episode that aired August 21,

2013. In addition to work

in Hollywood, he is

currently discussing a coaching position with the newly

formed National Spring Football League (NSPF), a league of

professional players who will begin play-ing in Spring 2014.

For Parker, this is a huge stepping stone

to achieve his ulti-

mate goal of being a NFL or CFL coach. Currently residing in

the Kansas City area, he is excited to see what Andy Reid will

do as the head coach of the Kansas City Chiefs. With his ex-

perience, passion and

love for the game, we’re sure to see Samie soon coaching

his own team. All the best, Coach Parker.

“I got a chance to

interact with all

the male cast

members includ-

ing a lot of inter-

action with Mor-

ris since I was

playing him in the

football role. They

were all great,

down to earth

people and it was

a great experi-

ence!”

Morris Chestnut and Samie Parker on the set of The Best

Man Holiday.

Samie, with more of the cast including Terrence Howard.

74

READY

TWELVEKC.COM

75

I know what you’re wondering...and the answer is Yes. It IS that serious. What we do is really not a game. We don’t mind having fun,

but we’re here to work and we do it well. 100 Years and counting, there’s

really nothing left to prove. Don’t mind if you tell someone, cause it’s REDZ

against...whoever, whatever and whenever. Yeah, “WE #READY”

Thanks to KCMO Alumnae Chapter of

Delta Sigma Theta, Sorority, Inc.

Photo, AEH Photography

76

he venerable qualities of cheerleading

aren’t the focus of traditionally stereo-

typical portrayals, but the world of

cheerleading is brimming with character-building,

life-enhancing experiences.

As a member of the Junior Chiefs Cheerleaders, 7

year old Aubree Herron says she “laughs, learns, and

has made new friends.”

This non-competitive and self-esteem building pro-

gram is taught by the Kansas City Chiefs Cheer-

leaders and is available for girls ages 6-12. In addi-

tion to the Junior squad, they also have a Teen squad

for ages 13-17 and even an Angel squad for little

girls ages 3-5.

The program offers a rare opportunity for young

girls to perform during a halftime show for over

78,000 Kansas City Chiefs fans at Arrowhead Stadium.

T

Aubree Herron, one of Kansas City’s

Youth Benefitting from Cheerleading

TWELVEKC.COM

77

This year they are scheduled to perform at the

October 27th game when the Chiefs beat the Cleve-

land Browns.

The self-esteem boosting power of cheerleading

can play a major role in how your child interacts

and relates to others and her surroundings. Team-

building exercises and lessons on how to encour-

age others, as well as themselves, build strong and

confident individuals. Pairing the training with the

excitement of cheerleading helps cement these

lessons into lifelong character traits.

Cj Nash, co-owner of Nash Jem Elite All Stars,

agrees that cheerleading helps raise self-esteem,

self-discipline, and self-worth. In October of 2000,

Nash along with her sister Jamishia Miller opened

the doors to a primarily African-American all-star

gym. Striving to make a difference in their commu-

nity and to build up future leaders, they empower

and encourage girls through competitive cheerlead-

ing. Nash Jem grooms and trains their cheerleaders

at a caliber that has afforded opportunities for their

students to compete at the collegiate and profes-

sional levels.

Nash says, “We started with 18 members and today

have over 150 athletes from ages 3 to 18 years old

with eight competitive and two non-competitive teams.

We coach athletes in tumbling, stunts and cheer from

basic level 1 up through advanced level 5.”

Nash Jem is one of the only predominantly African-

American gyms in the region and last year won a

host of competitions including the Live Champions,

America Best Champions, and JamFest Cheer Super

Nationals.

Cheerleading has become an avenue through which

we cultivate new leaders. It is a sport that can be

leveraged to build your child’s self-esteem, confi-

dence, discipline, and respect. We congratulate

these organizations on their efforts to groom our

leaders of tomorrow.

Nash Jem Elite All Stars, Champion Cheerleaders

78

SCENE

Photos: JW Edwards

Thursday, August 15th, the Greater

KC Chapter of the Links, Inc.

hosted a pre-screening of the new

movie, The Butler, as a scholarship

fundraiser.

Movie critic, Shawn Edwards and U.S. Congressman Emanuel Cleaver, II

Tammy Edwards, President of The Greater KC Links, Inc.

79

SCENE

80

Twelvekc.com