twelve kc magazine six

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 SIX

Halfway through the year! Welcome to SIX.

We call this one the SUCCESS GUIDE 2014.

Paired with our 3rd Annual NETWORK with

the 100 event, this issue features a Who’s

Who line-up delivering on topics of Career

and Business growth.

SUMMER IN THE CITY! Get ready for a

unique experience with TWELVE this Season.

Be sure to post your events on kcsoul.com for

a chance to be featured along our Hot Spot

tour.

Remember, beyond the digital or print experi-

ence, TWELVE is interactive, so get involved

and engage at our live events too!

You have an opportunity to contribute to the

content by writing, submitting story sugges-

tions, and of course, attending the launch

events and more. Contact us at

[email protected] to get involved and send us feedback, too!

Sincerely,

Ken L

COVER

Hallmark EXECS

DON’T MISS

Calendar 52

INSIDE

Fred Wise 6

Shannon: Fashion 12

Brian: Father

Knows

14

CAREER: Brief 18

SALES PRO 40

Black MBAs 42

Michele: Biz Setup 46

JUNE 2014 Volume II, Issue VI

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 net-work. Owned by H.G.E. Marketing, LLC. (H.G.E.).

Views & opinions ex-pressed here are not

necessarily those of H.G.E.

or contributors.

5

SPECIAL THANKS

To all of Our Writers, Designers,

Planners, Contributors,

Advertisers & Supporters of Xii.

Ken L.

Lena Banks

Shemeka Cockerm

Eryn Davis-Hayter

DJ Franklin

Jasmine Jackson

Raye Jackson

Katrina Leonard

Clarence Lomax

Iman Lott

Sherry Lumpkins

LeAndrea Mack

Marlo Marable

Randi McCreary

Carlanda McKinney

Gary Mitchell

Casie Murff

Tiffaney Oakes

Corey Phillips

Earl Smith

Anna Thomas-Rios

LaToya Traylor

Tony Van Trece

A’Yanna Gilmore Webster

Jessikha Williams

Christopher White

twelvekc.com

[email protected]

@twelvekc

6

Finds Talent for Hallmark, One of the World’s Leading Brands!

FRED WISE

CAREER

Photo: Jessikha Williams

7

Fred Wise is the Human Resources Direc-

tor for the corporate recruiting, diversity

and inclusion groups for Hallmark Cards. He is a graduate of the Olin School of Business from

Washington University in St. Louis with a BS degree in Business Administrations (1989); and holds an MS degree in Organizational Development from Ameri-can University & NTL Institute in Washington, D.C.

(1996).

Fred’s human resource experience spans 25 years in both HR generalist and functional areas at the Pepsi-Cola Company, Nabisco and Hallmark. His exper-

tise includes: recruiting, talent management, leader-ship development; workforce planning; succession

planning; organization development; executive and

international compensation; and H.R business part-nership. He is a member of the University of Mis-souri- Kansas City Bloch School of Management Ad-visory Board and the 100 Black Men’s chapter of

Kansas City.

In this article, Fred provides #12MAG readers

with career guidance to give them an edge.

What makes a candidate positively stand

out?

Demonstration of work leadership and col-

laboration skills. Individual uniqueness and

ways of showing (versus just talking about)

their results. Also, leadership and involve-

ment in the community.

What are the key questions a candidate

should be able to respond to most effec-

tively in an interview?

What do you know about the organization?

The leaders, culture? The industry? Compe-

tition?

What are your strengths and how would

you leverage them to bring value to this

role?

What are your areas of improvement? How

have you improved in those areas?

How does this opportunity fit into your

short and longer term career goals? Why

this role?

Even with a solid education, what are

some common pitfalls candidates make

that eliminate them from consideration?

Spelling errors or unexplainable work gaps

on resumes

Shallow, cliché or contradictory responses

to interview questions

Misused words, to impress versus effectively

express one’s ideas.

Any kind of interview distractions – digital

or otherwise

Lack of interviewing confidence - poor eye

contact, weak handshake, speaking volume

Lack of professionalism – lateness, inappro-

priate dress, out-talking interviewers, ex-

cessive name-dropping , or no post-

interview follow-up (e.g., Thank you note)

After securing the job, how do you best

sustain a career—considering layoffs and

reorgs can impact any business?

Continue to broaden your skills and look for

ways to increase your value to the organiza-

tion.

Stay abreast of trends in your business in-

dustry. It will help you better navigate your

career.

It’s a “Who You Know” world. How does

one network or start developing a rela-

tionship with Hallmark staff? Are there

certain events, forums?

LinkedIn requests and occasional LinkedIn

follow-up messages to staff in your areas of

interest.

(Continued on page 8)

8

Meet and introduce yourself to Hallmark

leaders or recruiters at local community

events (e.g., KC Black MBA meetings, KC

Area Development Council workshops,

area professional or campus recruiting

events, etc. )

Try to build a relationship with more than

one individual over time.

Ensure that the relationship offers mutual

benefit versus only being one way.

Any format recommendation tips for to-

day’s resume?

The standard format with a clearly stated

objective, highlighted skill areas, chronologi-

cal work experiences with the key bulleted

accomplishments( not a laundry list of job

responsibilities).

(Continued from page 7) Classes that matter. Thinking of the di-

rection of business, what are skill sets

that today’s college student should learn

or today’s professional should consider

learning?

While this will vary based on the student’s

major, a few courses in key business topics

like marketing and accounting can prove to

be helpful in the business environment.

Also, topics that cover innovation, entrepre-

neurship, technology and more common

foreign languages will reflect a student’s

business learning agility and cultural diversity

– both important in a rapidly changing work-

force of the future.

Thanks to Hallmark and Mr. Wise for your in-

sights. #12MAG Readers, put these steps into

action. Success Guide 2014!

Just a few of Hallmark’s Heavyweights (l. to r.) Kim Newton , VP North American Strategic Planning; Fred Wise, Human Resources Director for Corporate

Recruiting, Diversity and Inclusion; James Seay, VP -HR for Crown Center; Pete Burney, Sr. VP - Supply Chain and Business Enablement

10

Darius Jackson

UMKC’s Men of Color

Class of 2014

11

SCENE

Club Kouture presents

4th Fridays at Qudos.

5.23.14.

Millionaire Ent.

12

ad passion, mad artistry, and mad love are the

elements that developed M.A.D House, the nail

lacquer line born out of Kansas City, MO. The

launch event for M.A.D House was held April

28th, 2014 at Firefly Lounge on Westport. The

speakeasy atmosphere was the perfect ambi-

ance for the eclectic urban crowd that gathered

to view the showcase. Displays of the nail lac-

quers were placed throughout the venue while

portraits of models wearing the polish graced

the walls. The level of artistry of the décor

foretold of a night of colorful and lively debut.

The founder of M.A.D House, Je’Ree Hamby,

created the House of Mothers and Daughters

(M.A.D), in honor of her late great-

grandmother, Marion Waters. As a bonding

mechanism, Hamby recalls the women in her

family from her great-grandmother on down,

coming together for fellowship and comfort

over bottles of nail polish. Hamby states this

line is not only about promoting unique style

but the underlying mission of M.A.D House,

which is to “help other mothers and daughters

find a new route of communication”.

The launch event was hosted by KC’s own Ray

Tha Jerk and Jasmine Jackson. The event was a

showcase of talented performers and models.

The opening act, Precious Nichole, performed a

beautiful cover of “1+1”and the dance group

Poison moved the crowd with their routine to

a Beyoncé medley. Two M.A.D House lines

were presented during the showcase, the Clas-

sic line and the Rebellious Glam line. Models

strode through the venue donning the different

polishes with names such as, Boy Bait, Ex-

boyfriend, and Cocaine. The lacquers’ audacious

names aren’t the only thing that sets them

apart. M.A.D House uniqueness relies on its

natural components, excluding three main

chemicals found in most nail lacquers on the

market. It is also true to color on the first coat

and no top coat is needed.

As the event concluded Hamby was emotional

as she thanked her own mother and reflected

on thoughts of her daughter, these relationships

are what helped inspire her line. Hamby hopes

her vision helps inspire others to build healthy

relationships as well.

BUSINESS

Words: Lena Banks

Photos: Raye Jackson

Fashionable in Black. Je’Ree Hamby flanked by guests at the M.A.D. House launch at the Firefly in Westport

nline shopping has become the new wave for many working

adults, and Amour Collections

adopted the new era of retail therapy in May of 2013, officially marking its one year anniversary. This online bou-tique serves women that possess pro-fessionalism, modern style, class, and a hint of sexy. What sets this store apart from the other hundreds of nationwide bou-tiques is its reasonable pricing. The owner prides herself on providing af-fordable clothing to women without compromising on quality. Connois-seurs can enjoy the luxury of nice ap-parel without breaking the bank. Shannon Marie Strong’s desire to cre-ate a boutique derived from her love of fashion as a child. At an early age her mother adorned her in the finest attire: fashionable dresses, trendy hair ornaments, stylish sunglasses, shoes, and topped with flashy purses to match. Fashion is second nature to Ms. Strong but her desire to learn more about the

Look of Success

FASHION

O Shannon Marie Strong

Photo: Wizard PhotoGraphx

13

fashion industry intensified later in life, prompt-ing her to take her love for fashion to the next level by using it as a platform for awareness of women’s health. A percentage of each sale is donated to the National Breast Cancer Foun-dation. Amour Collections has been showcased throughout the Kansas City metropolitan area. Those events, highlighting women’s health, included the Women’s Bazaar, Sounds of Mu-sic Fashion for Breast Cancer, and Beauty and Bowties Fashion Show. As Amour Collections extends its product line, it will also expand into styling services soon. In fact, Shannon has been selected to partake in celebrity stylist J. Bolin’s Boot Camp in Dallas,

Texas this month and will be officially in the market for personal styling or personal shop-ping. As of now, the store is solely based online at www.myamourcollections.com, where shop-pers can find the newest collections and helpful health tips. Shannon has future plans for a Kansas City, Missouri store front location within 3-5 years. For updates and reminders, shoppers can follow the Amour Collections on twitter @amourcollection, be friends on Facebook at www.facebook.com/pages/Amour-Collections and check out the Nations Breast Cancer Page for Amour Collections at www.stayclassy.org/amourtogive


http://www.myamourcollections.com

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Amour-Collections

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Amour-Collections

14

LIFE

w hether or not we’re comfortable admitting it,

race is a central factor in our society. Many countries’ citizens identify themselves with their country of origin alone (German, Cuban,

Japanese, etc.); then, perhaps, they might sec-

ondarily include some other factor to enhance their primary designation. In the United States, race is at the forefront of our self-

actualization. I learned this at a very young age from my father, Harold Foster. After receiving a heavy dose of “Black Pride” as a student at

Tuskegee Univer-sity, he was one the first four black

students to inte-grate Oklahoma City University.

That experience,

coupled with the overt bigotry he faced during his

military service, shaped his outlook on race. He didn’t

exactly hate white people…he just didn’t trust many of them. My father had a television repair business in

the early ‘60’s. His customers were from all

walks of life: Black and non-Black, rich and non-rich. He was very busy in those days; occa-

sionally, he’d take me on his house calls. On one particular visit, during the summer after I’d completed the 2nd grade, we went out on

a call. The family happened to be white. It was apparent that this family was not among my father’s wealthy clientele; the screen door was

torn, dirty clothes everywhere, and the TV was sitting on top of a rusty file cabinet. As my Dad began working on the set, this little kid – no more than three years of age – came tod-

dling into the room, wearing nothing but a dia-per. This kid took one look at my father,

pointed at him, smiled, and said, “Nigger!” The

kid did that about 4-5 times. To his credit, he responded with cool; Dad

said hello to the kid and kept working, as the kid left the room. I stood there, stunned, say-

ing nothing. After about 30 minutes, the job was done, the family paid Dad, and we left. On

the ride home, I asked my father why he didn’t get upset at that little kid. He informed me that he was upset…at that kid’s parents, be-

cause that’s the only way that kid could have learned that racial epithet. He grew up hearing that word being directed at him all his life, and

that his “making a scene” wouldn’t solve the problem. Then, he taught me one of the most important lessons of my life:

Never let others define who you are. You have to look in the mirror and like what you see. Others may or may not respect you, but

you must respect yourself. I remember Dad telling me there were many

black people fighting for civil rights on our be-half, and that we should respect that effort. But I’m not sure he believed in the move-ment’s tactics, or its demand that white people

treat blacks with dignity and equality would ever come to fruition. His position: it’s up to

us to carry ourselves with dignity, rather than

expect others – even our “own” people – to bestow dignity upon us. Whenever I got into trouble (more often than I’d like to admit)

he’d say, “Hold your head up, son; if you were man enough to do it, be man enough to face it!” I say the same things to my own kids to

this day, and to other young people who I mentor. I believe that the only way one can help others is to have a true sense of self-respect.

For those who think Dad was a saint: he charged that family an extra five dollars

for every time the kid said that word to him!

FATHER KNOWS BEST

RACE. Yesterday and STILL

This kid took one look at my father, pointed at him, smiled, and said,

“Nigger!”

By Brian Foster

15

Mark Lovelace of

the KC Swingers, Shows off his putt

technique.

Brian Foster President, 100 Black Men of KC

Photo:

Jessikha Williams

18

LEVATION! That’s the

goal. Whether beginning your

first job or you’re a seasoned

professional, with a long-term

career, advancement should

be in your plans. Sure. A position in

management may not necessarily be your

end goal, but building knowledge, growing

your network

and your skill

set should

always be

among your

highest considerations.

We grabbed a few EXECUTIVES

at the water cooler, from our Network

with the 100 photoshoot to provide a

few gems for our readers. Use these

kernels of wisdom to help navigate your

career course.

Executive Brief:

Problems Moving Up?

E

CAREER

“Search and seek out mentorship that can

bring them up and bring them along the way,

whereby the mentor can show the process

that allowed them to get where they are in

their career. “

“LISTEN! One of

the key challenges of younger and newer

colleagues is that because there is so much

information available they mistake the in-

formation for knowledge. So listen to more

seasoned colleagues and be open to learn.”

“Continuous learning... Once you

graduate from high school or college or, as

you continue on your journey, never stop

learning. If you stop learning you stop living

and continuing your career. So continuous

learning, reading books, latest newspapers,

and articles to stay abreast of current

events and career matters. Secondly, be-

cause of the changing demographics, it is

important to learn to work with others in

different perspectives, not just from a race,

sexual orientation or gender, otherwise a

person will hinder themselves from being

able to become a manager or supervisor in

a company. Embrace diversity! “

SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR EXECUTIVES:

Andrea Hendricks

SVP of Diversity and Inclusion, UMB Financial

Kimberly Newton

VP of Strategy for North America Hallmark Cards

Kelvin Simmons

Principal, Denton

Willetta Willis-McGhee

SVP and Partner Fleishman Hillard

CAREER

GROWTH

On the Scene

Katrina Leonard

Andrea Hendricks




Andrea Hendricks


CONTINUED ON PG 20

19

GIVE

twelvekc.com



JUST A FEW OF THE FEATURE EXECS FOR NETWORK WITH THE 100 (l. to r.) Kelvin Simmons, DENTONS; Willetta Willis-McGhee, Fleishman-Hillard, Mark Watson,

Federal Reserve Bank, Niki Donawa, Truman Medical Center, Andrea Hendricks, UMB

20

WANT TO MAKE IT? COME TO THE TABLE WITH

MORE THAN AN APPETITE

You need to find someone who can re-

spond to your need instead of looking on

your own. There are organizations and

agencies that have leaders, head hunters,

mentors, advisors, individuals that have

access to the right people. And if you can

build a relationship with such a person who

can open the door for you via sponsorship

and speak on your behalf and also write

letters of recommendation you will see a

major difference in your search.

My son had this same issue. He came out of

school wanting to get into the digital field but

needed experience to be considered a candidate

in the position he was looking for. I praise him in

this time period of his life. He worked nights to

pay the bills and took internships, part-time posi-

tions, contract positions etc., anything to get the

work experience. It took him two years and now

he holds a management position and is in the role

he wants to be in.

So I think if you have a job and are at a standstill I think it’s

really important to make sure that you have an understanding

as to what the “news is on you”, so stepping back and assessing

what your brands stand for. And then you’re assessing it objec-

tively to know what the two or three things are you’re going

to change. Somebody, somewhere shared with me that it takes

three different interactions with someone to change someone’s

mind about you after they have formed an opinion. So it’s im-

portant that you develop that brand that you’re interested in

by focusing on the few things you need to change.

LIMITED

EXPERIENCE

REBRAND FOR NEW

OPPORTUNITIES

EXECUTIVE BRIEF:

Continued from pg. 19

Andrea Hendricks




Kimberly Newton

VP of Strategy for North America Hallmark Cards

21

SCENE

24

www.ThinkLikeAManToo.com

25

SCENE For a chance to get featured in TWELVE, Add your events to kcsoul.com

26

YOUTH

LeAndrea Mack

Extra-curricular activities build confi-

dence,

character

and cama-

raderie.

Failing to

discover

and culti-

vate your

child's

strengths

and inter-

ests could

poten-

tially limit their ac-

cess to

future

careers,

pursuits and passions that give them great

joy. Often times, passions are revealed and

honed during grade school years and, while

parents cannot choose their child’s passion

and purpose, you can help them realize

their potential by giving them the tools they

need to safely explore what the world has

to offer.

One of the best methods of exploration

for students is extracurricular activities,

which offer students with physical, crea-

tive, social, political or career-oriented

experiences. These opportunities can

heavily influence self-worth, aspirations,

and life choices.

So what are the disadvantages of extracur-

ricular activities?

Sometimes students can become over-

whelmed with the responsibility of bal-

ancing extracurricular activities, school-

work, and chores. Learning time manage-ment skills are great lessons for students

but parents must also monitor children’s

schedules to ensure they’re not over-

come by unmanageable pressures.

Parental guid-

ance is also

critical for

ensuring that

students

maintain disci-

pline when

pursuing ac-

tivities they

love, other-

wise, students

may be

tempted to

intentionally

ignore other

responsibili-

ties like

homework in

favor of “just one more” game, round,

lap, song, dance, etc.

The number of different activities a stu-

dent is involved in makes a difference,

also. An excess of activities can consume

valuable time that could be more wisely


Summer

Break Keep ‘Em Active

28

FEATURE

29

Lessons Learned

NOW That School is over, 2014 graduates have

matriculated and walked across the stage with brand

new degrees. We wondered, what have they really

learned? After all, there has to be a benefit from a

college education—mastering a discipline, a skill, and

even broadening one’s perspective and understanding

of the world. A portion of the learning experience

would inevitably be self-discovery, including the aware-

ness of newfound personal capabilities and limits.

So class of 2014, what have you learned from your

education or experience? Please share with those who

may soon follow your path...or helped pay the bills:

Kristan A Shelton Master of Public Administration

Texas Southern University

I learned a few things in my educational journey but

one thing that kept me going is

not letting my failures keep me

from my success. Use that low

test score or assignment grade

as motivation to go harder and

adopt new approaches to bet-

ter create or understand what

the professor is looking for to

obtain the grade you desire.

Also, if you chose to focus on the nonprofit and ser-

vice field, as I did with my Masters in Public Admini-

stration, I encourage you to make sure you have a

heart and desire to help the people you will serve.

Empower yourself by serving others. My favorite

quote: "You can't lead the people if you don't love the

people; you can't save the people if you don't serve the

people." -Dr Cornel West

Samara Molix Master of Business Administration

Park University

True learning is not limited to the classroom. Be sure

to supplement your education with real-world knowl-

edge by staying abreast of world news, reading re-

spected newspapers and professionally relevant peri-

odicals.

Katherine Williams Masters in Higher Education Admini-

stration with a emphasis in Sports Ad-

ministration & Exercise Science

University of Missouri - Kansas City

My advice for a student would be to search and or

create opportunities for yourself to gain knowledge,

skills, and competencies essential to your career and

professional development.

As a former Division I track and field Athlete my area

of study in Sports Administration and Exercise Science

will enable me to prepare for leadership positions in

different sports related division. I learned the basics of

the organization and administration of sports pro-

grams, including coaching, athlete support services,

recreation, facilities management, and sports market-

ing. I also was able to study and engage with fellow

students on topics related to the psychol-

ogy and sociology of sports and athletics.

My graduate assistantship allowed me to

be creative and independent by creating a

sports show called 'The Kangaroo Sports

Update ' for the athletics department for

UMKC. I was the host, reporter, pro-

ducer and editor for the show. The show

tied in my undergraduate degree in communications. I

am truly excited to start my career in sports because I

have such a passion for it.

Lover Chancler Ph.D. Ecology

Kansas State University

I earned a doctorate in human ecology from the family

studies department. My research was qualitative study

on the Role of Black Grandmothers in the Racial So-

cialization of their Biracial grandchildren.

Words of Wisdom. Find a cohort and stick with them.

They will help you study and proof read your work.

They are also your sounding board. They will become

your friends for life.

not letting my failures keep me from my success.

31

ONE LOVE See our next featured couples on the following

pages. For a chance to be featured, email [email protected]

WEDDING

32

LOVE

twelvekc.com

Photos By Mojica Photography

mojicaphotography.com

33

One Love. Kristin Lambert and Joseph Jones

Wedding Date

June 20, 2014

Engaged

August 29, 2013

The Proposal

Joseph proposed in a private suite at the

Chief’s last home pre-game. I don’t remember

a word of what he said except "Will you

marry me?" LOL!

In the Beginning

We met at a birthday party for the bride's

best friend 7 years ago this June...we've been

hanging out ever since!

The ONE

We are truly best friends. We couldn't imag-

ine not sharing our life together or with any-

one else.

Wedding Planning

If you’d asked us four months ago we'd have

said it’s been a breeze! But now that we're

less than 30 days out, we can relate to why

so many couples say they should have

eloped! We wouldn't trade any of this

though. We're celebrating our Forever and

we think that deserves the extra time & at-

tention.

What will sustain your marriage?

God is first in all things. Add friendship and

open communication to the pot and we be-

lieve you've got a good recipe. We have

good family and friends who have always

prayed with us and supported us through

good and bad, but ultimately we've always

leaned on God and our friendship and that

has continuously carried us through.

Advice to others?

Honestly, neither of us are big on seeking

out dating or relationship advice or giving it

to others too much. Every person and rela-

tionship is different. You just have to pray

God will lead and protect you in any rela-

tionship.

Kristin & Joseph

34

LOVE

twelvekc.com

35

One Love. ShaQualyn Stone and Tarick Earle

Wedding Date

October 15, 2015

Engaged

October 15, 2013

The Proposal

“We kinda had to do a redo,” says ShaQua-

lyn. “I was watching ESPN.” Tarick was just

off of work and here’s ShaQualyn, distracted

by the game.

In the beginning

Houston TX born, but Tarick moved here

about the same year he met ShaQualyn,

which was in middle school , in the late

nineties. They grew up in the same

neighborhood. Over a span of fifteen years,

they’ve been off and on, but their bond was

inevitable.

When you knew

Tarick says, “I just had that feeling. I never

wanted to propose to anyone else. She’s

smart, beautiful, a wonderful mother and a

great partner.” ShaQualyn stated, “I’m a

planner. If I’m going date you, I’m going to

date you for a reason. He’s funny. Always

leaves a smile on my face. Boring doesn’t

work for me. I’m spontaneous, but he’s

more spontaneous. He puts up with my

attitude.”

Relationships. Where to find love?

Websites are impersonal. They suggest

social events, but not really clubs. Net-

working events, and the grocery store are

other options they’d recommend.

Wedding planning

Most of the planning ShaQualyn handles.

Tarick states, “It’s her day, but I’ve got the

say so in the money aspect.”

What’s the key for a lasting relation-

ship?

In a world of breakups. ShaQualyn has an

answer ready. “Communication, compro-

mise, patience and understanding.”


38

uccess. Many times the word itself is tossed around loosely. Why is success important? What are the critical elements that make up the mix of success? How might success be defined? Let’s agree on this working definition of success: “To

succeed within an area of focus achieving one’s goals”. It would seem that no matter the ambition, the goal, or the level of suc-cess one achieves while ascending the pro-verbial ladder, success points back to one critical element, its very make up: founda-tion. No matter the mix; background, social economic status, geography, trials, adversities, joys and triumphs; the founda-tion seems to always rise to the top of the success formula as a key ingredient. Whether in leadership or achievement, a solid foundation is the anchor of success. One might further ask, why, then,


YOUNG LEADERS. START BUILDING

A SOLID FOUNDATION

s

39

INSPIRE

YOUNG LEADERS. START BUILDING

A SOLID FOUNDATION

W.Sarah

Fletcher

40

YOUTH

magazine

SALES

Keith Antone Willis, Sr. aka, KeithSalesPro, joins

Twelve Magazine with his Career / Sales Blogger

Column, "MAKE IT HAPPEN". KeithSalesPro will

provide career and sales tips for Twelve. Selling

since the age of 12 (candy door-to-door) Keith-

SalesPro has sold everything from newspapers to

corporate sponsorships. His soon to be released

(Summer 2014) "10 Laws of the Ultimate Rain-

maker" combines his knowledge and superior

sales skills and techniques in 10 essential Laws

that any sales professional must master to become

the sales leader for their organization.

KeithSalesPro also started "The Ultimate Sales

Academy" to teach the 10 Laws to newcomers and

those who want to sharpen their sales skills. Keith

is a proud member of the National Sales Network,

St. Louis Chapter and current Director of Sales &

Marketing for Who's Who in Black Kansas City.

"Each column will have useful tips & techniques for all career professionals, not just folks in the sales industry" KeithSalesPro says. You can also hear KeithSalesPro weekly audio blog on Gospel 1600, I-heart Radio and One RareGem Productions internet site. Follow KeithSalesPro on twitter and facebook @KeithSalesPro or visit his website at www.KeithSalesPro.com and http://www.fiverr.com/

gokeithsalespro

10

by KeithSalesPro

BELIEFS OF

TOP SALES PRODUCERS

http://www.fiverr.com/gokeithsalespro

http://www.fiverr.com/gokeithsalespro

41

while back, I read an article on Tom Black,

author of "The Boxcar Millionaire." He

shared his list of personal beliefs that he's ob-

served in top salespeople and not surprisingly

"having the right attitude" is crucial to being Top Sales Pro-

ducers (T.S.P.). Here is a summary of 10 of his beliefs (in

no particular order) typified by my personal experience.

Top Sales Producers believe that

people are as happy as

they want to be.

T.S.P. have very positive

attitudes and can usually

bring out that same spirit in

others we come in contact

with. We believe that you

choose to either think posi-

tive or negative thoughts.

Top Sales Producers are per-

sistent even in the face of

disappointment.

T.S.P. realize that every sales call

won’t result in a close, but we count

take-aways such as getting a referral or scheduling a

second meeting as progress towards the win. We

don’t have Wins and Losses. We have Wins and

Learns!

Top Sales Producers constantly seek to im-

prove, acquire knowledge, and learn new

skills.

T.S.P. are always, always looking for an edge, buying

books, attending seminars and webinars. American

companies last year spent 7.1 billion dollars on sales

training alone. EVERY DAY seek to learn something

NEW.

Top Sales Producers think BIG even when

dealing with the small-minded.

T.S.P. are always looking for the next BIG close,

meeting or opportunity. We always surround our-

selves with other positive thinking people. We be-

lieve in ourselves even when those closest to us

can’t see or share our VISION!

Top Sales Producers are truly committed to

being of service to others.

T.S.P. have a “What have I done for YOU lately?”

attitude. We are always looking for ways to pay it

forward. When we make service to others a part of

our daily routine, our relationships and ultimately

our sales will increase.

Top Sales Producers are willing to leave their

comfort zones.

T.S.P. are risk takers, period.

We know to get what you

never had, you have to do

what you have never done.

This may be the most diffi-

cult belief for most to em-

brace and achieve.

Top Sales Producers

are consummate pro-

fessional and behave

accordingly.

T.S.P. know that the sell-

ing profession is a 24/7 LIFE-

STYLE! We are always out selling,

otherwise, we are getting outsold!

Top Sales Producers accept change as a part

of life, willingly and completely.

T.S.P. expect that something will go wrong, so we

anticipate all scenarios going into a meeting or pres-

entation. We are always extremely flexible.

Top Sales Producers make decisions quickly

and then take immediate action.

T.S.P. are not procrastinators. We know that time

is money, OUR money. Our motto is “It happens

today or it happens tonight”

!

Top Sales Producers take full responsibility

for their performance.

T.S.P. will NEVER point the finger at someone else

on the team. If it is to be it is up to me. That’s

how we stay sharp and focused on our GOALS!

Top Sales Producers are persistent even in the face of disappoint-ment.

A

42

ELEVATE

he Kansas City Chapter of the

National Black MBA Association is an integral part of the Kansas City Community. With over 20

years of creating educational programs, building relationships, connecting peo-ple and businesses in the community, the organi-zation looks toward its future with relentless op-

timism and commitment. Considering the humble beginnings from which this organization ema-

nated, it stands as an exemplar of excellence.

There have been several changes, occasions for professional growth, and its members have re-ceived multiple opportunities to experience suc-

cess. The chapter continually seeks mutual col-laboration from other like-minded professionals and strives to increase membership. As their moniker states, their desire is to “empower vi-

sionaries” and anyone who is a member of this organization will obtain access to a realm that will cause them to perform better in the workplace,

be more civically aware, culturally conscious and

socially active.

T MASTER

CLASS KC’s Black MBA Association

Provides Insights for Today’s

Leaders!

(l. to r.) Kristi Gaylord Lacy, Vice-President Administra-

tion; Fred Phillips, Past President., Janine Wilson, Vice-

President Records; Lori Watson, Vice-President Opera-

tions; Mozella Dyer, President.

43

The National Black MBA Association®

The founders of the organization envi-sioned that African Americans were not only es-sential to diversity in the business world, but were

key to changing the landscape of their communi-ties’ economic and intellectual wealth.

Established in 1970, the National Black MBA Association® (NBMBAA®) is dedicated to

developing partnerships that result in the creation of intellectual and economic wealth in the black community. The growth of NBMBAA® is evident

with 46 chapters, 28 collegiate chapters, a mem-bership base of more than 9,500 and more than 450 corporate partners.

Today, the KC chapter is an avid partner in the

Leaders of Tomorrow (LOT) program and works with

high school students to help them focus on and acquire

access to a college education. Theresa Trussell was the

Kansas City Leaders of Tomorrow (LOT) program’s

first chairperson. The program has grown since then

and is currently chaired by Tina Saulsbury. The Greater

Kansas City YMCA Young Achievers Program will part-

ner with the Kansas City Leaders of Tomorrow. This is

another landmark occasion. On June 20, 2014, the

Kansas City chapter’s LOT students will participate in

the NBMBAA Success Boot Camp at Ohio State Uni-

versity. The participants have an opportunity to win

scholarships toward their future undergraduate educa-

tion.

We are a self-selected affinity group

dedicated to empowering visionaries through

five channels of engagement:

Education: Building a Solid Pipeline

Career: Commitment to Measurable Success

Leadership: Building Core Competencies

Entrepreneurship: Creating Wealth and Value

Lifestyle: Meaning, Balance, and Sustainability

Upcoming Events The chapter has two upcoming events. The

first will be June 18, 2014 when the topic for conver-

sation is work-life balance with panelists Portia Kibble

Smith, CEO and President, PKS Executive Search and

Consulting; and Dave Smith, President, Boys & Girls

Club of Greater Kansas City. Also, on July 29, 2014,

in collaboration with the Greater Kansas City Chamber

of Commerce and the Kansas City Chapter of the Na-

tional Society of Hispanic MBA’s, we will be hosting an

event in the Board Room at Union Station.

5 By KC Black MBA Association

LEADERSHIP

The Essential Five After perusing John Maxwell’s book, The 21 Indispensable

Qualities of a Leader, it can be duly noted that five of the

most essential qualifications businesses are looking for today

from its leaders are:

CHARACTER How a leader deals with the circumstances of life

tells you many things about his or her character. Crisis

doesn’t necessarily make character, but it certainly does

reveal it. Adversity is a crossroads that makes a person

choose one of two paths: character or compromise. Every

time a leader chooses character, he or she becomes

stronger, even if that choice brings negative consequences.

The development of character is at the heart of our devel-

opment not just as leaders, but as human beings.

COMMITMENT If you want to be an effective leader, you have to

be committed. True commitment inspires and attracts peo-

ple. It shows them that you have conviction. They will be-

lieve in you only if you believe in your cause. As the Law of

Buy-In states, people buy into the leader, then the vision. Commitment starts in the heart. If you want to

make a difference in other people’s lives as a leader, look

into your heart to see if you’re really committed. The only

real measure of commitment is action. And there will be

times when commitment is the only thing that carries you

forward.

POSITIVE ATTITUDE If you desire to be an effective leader, having a

positive attitude is essential. It not only determines your

level of contentment as a person, but it also has an impact

on how others interact with you. Your attitude is a choice.

No matter what happened to you yesterday, your attitude is

your choice today. Your attitude determines your actions.

You can choose your attitude, you can change it.

SELF-DISCIPLINE No one achieves and sustains success without self-

discipline. It positions a leader to go to the highest level and

is key to leadership that lasts. If you can determine what’s

really a priority and release yourself from everything else,


www.kcblackmba.com More on Page 50

http://www.kcblackmba.com

44

is such emphasis placed on the attainment and achievement of one’s success? Quite simply, in our culture and time, success is linked strongly to one’s purpose, especially as development and life progress. To succeed in life creates a context around the realization of one’s pur-pose to some degree.

But even after debating the correlation between success and purpose, they both point back to a foundation, a strong foundation to realize one’s own greatness and purpose. A foundational mix can include a great deal; families, friends, opportunities, various experi-ences – both positive and negative – formal education, trainings, seminars, and other tools and resources. One resource we found for enhancing the foundation of success through training and development is the Institute for Greatness. The Institute For Greatness focuses on the training and development of Young Modern Leaders, equipping and empowering them to be both seen and heard as effective leaders today. While their current offerings include online leadership training and development for Young Modern High School Leaders, they will be re-leasing training products for Young Modern Leaders at the collegiate level and Young Mod-

(Continued from page 38) ern Leaders in the professional arena as well. The Institute For Greatness champions

leadership and the uniqueness in all of us that qualifies us to be great; to achieve our various callings and purposes; to succeed. To succeed or not to succeed should never be a question in the time and landscape in which we live. With this perspective, the Insti-

tute For Greatness team works to create materi-als and products that are simple, practical, and easy to digest for the trainee, creating the maximum learning im-pact and retention level. Trainings are de-livered through a mix of proprietary methods and models that en-hance preparation for both college and career. Current tools and resources offered by the institute include an online leadership

training and development course for high school students (offered only in the summer), goal planning sessions, and individual and group suc-cess coaching which run parallel to the academic calendar for optimal achievement. As the conversation for success, achieve-ment, and purpose continue, it is important to interject into the conversation tools and re-sources that support these aims. That support reinforces the foundation. The foundation for success is critical. As growth and development occur, the foundation is magnified as weight and pressure of achievement, purpose and success solidify it. How we lay, enhance and fortify the foundations of our goals and aspirations today, will be seen and reflected in our successes and achievements tomorrow. To learn more about the Institute For Greatness visit www.instituteforgreatness.com

http://www.instituteforgreatness.com/

45

[email protected]

46

BUSINESS

magazine

MICHELE WATLEY

TAKING

CARE OF

BUSINESS

47

Over 200,000 Missourians are self-

employed small business owners. Missouri

Secretary of State Jason Kander is one of

them and knows what it is like to sort

through a lot of bureaucracy and paper-

work to get things done with state govern-

ment.

When Secretary Kander took office in January of

2013, he started the Business Outreach Office

to help entrepreneurs and small business owners

navigate the process of registering their compa-

nies with state government. He strives to main-

tain an office that can assist business owners by

reducing red tape and offering commonsense

solutions to help small businesses grow.

The Business Outreach Office also serves as a

resource to connect business owners with or-

ganizations and other governmental agencies

that may help them begin and maintain successful

businesses.

The Business Outreach Office has representa-

tives in Kansas City, St. Louis and Springfield.

These individuals, like Michele Watley, meet

with local business organizations, service and

leadership groups, and attend community events.

A Kansas City native, Michele L. Watley serves

as the director of the Kansas City branch office

for Missouri Secretary of State Jason Kander. In

this role, she works to develop key relationships

and partnerships that will allow us to better

serve Missouri business owners.

She provides constituent services while oversee-

ing the daily office operations and personnel. In

this capacity she also serves as Legislative Staff

for Secretary Kander, providing briefs on sched-

uling activities and recommendations for future

outreach opportunities.

By connecting business and government, the

Business Outreach Office aims to provide assis-

tance and information to entrepreneurs who are

working to expand business growth and creation

in Kansas City and throughout the state.

The following list includes some basic steps for

starting your business in Missouri. For additional

information, please consult http://

www.sos.mo.gov/business/corporations/

startBusiness.asp.

STEP 1: Consult with professionals, such as an accountant, attorney, financial adviser, and other experts for

advice regarding your small business.

STEP 2: Create a business entity and file a creation docu-ment with the Secretary of State, if needed. Busi-

ness entities include:

Corporation — Articles of incorporation General Partnership — No creation docu-

ment required, but fictitious name filing may be necessary

Limited Partnership — Certificate of lim-

ited partnership Limited Liability Company (LLC) — Arti-

cles of organization Fictitious Name Registration — A ficti-

tious name is commonly referred to as a “DBA,” an acronym for “doing business as.” If the business will operate under a

name other than your own or the exact name of the entity, you must register that different name.

You can access many of these filings elec-tronically through the Secretary of State’s Online Services at http://www.sos.mo.gov

STEP 3: Register the business for required state taxes, if appli-

cable with the Missouri Department of Revenue.

STEP 4: Register with the Missouri Division of Employment

Security for unemployment tax purposes through the Missouri Department of Labor & Industrial

Relations.

STEP 5: Apply for a federal employer identification number

(EIN) through the Internal Revenue Service.

STEP 6: Register with other Missouri agencies if required in

your industry.

STEP 7: Register for a business license and other necessary

permits (if any) with local city or county.

SETTING UP YOUR BUSINESS

48

YOUTH

By Shemeka Cockerm

magazine

twelvekc.com

49

he people of Texas are informed that in ac-

cordance with a Proclamation from the Ex-ecutive of the United States, all slaves are

free. This involves an absolute equality of rights and rights of property between former

masters and slaves, and the connection heretofore existing between them becomes that between em-

ployer and free laborer." Executive Order Number 3.

On June 19th, 1865, with these words, Major General Gordon Granger announced to Galveston, Texas that

slavery had ended. Although the Emancipation Procla-mation abolished slavery in January of 1863, Texas

had so few Union troops, that the Executive Order initially went unheeded

and without enforce-ment. Major General Granger’s announce-

ment, which came al-most three years after

the Emancipation Proc-lamation was issued,

finally allowed slaves in Texas to become freed-

men. Many of these newly freedmen immedi-

ately left the plantation for the northern states

in further pursuit of their freedom and many

went to neighboring states in search of the family slav-ery had separated them from.

As they established their freed lives, they recognized the need commemorate this triumph in history, to

relive the moment they found out they were freed and consider all that could entail. To celebrate, a re-

turn to Galveston to gather with family and friends became an annual event known as Juneteenth. These

first Juneteenth celebrations were not much different from how Juneteenth would become celebrated

around the country: bar-b-ques, educational events, and prayer gatherings. Over time, the tradition of

Juneteenth evolved into a focus on self improvement.

Cultural and economic forces brought the early cele-brations of Juneteenth to a slow end. In school, chil-

dren began learning only about the Emancipation Proclamation itself, and not of the importance of Ma-

jor General Granger’s arrival in Galveston. With the Depression, many people were forced to leave their rural homes and find work in urban factories. Their

new employers were less willing to consider allowing

time off for the traditional pilgrimage to Texas and

Juneteenth celebrations became antiquated.

The Civil Rights Movement brought a renewed inter-est in Juneteenth and its place in history. During the

1968 Poor People’s March in Washington, D.C., Rev-erend Ralph Abernathy encouraged participants to

return to their home states and initiate local Juneteenth celebrations. Eventually a group of local

Louisiana leaders took on the challenge to make Juneteenth recognized nationally. This was a catalyst

sparking Juneteenth celebrations throughout the country and the world, including locally, in Kansas

City, MO.

In the 1980’s, Mr. Horace Peter-son, founder of the Black Ar-chives of Mid-America in Kansas

City, Inc, helped create Kansas City’s first Juneteenth celebra-

tions in the Historic 18th and Vine Jazz District. Part of Mr.

Peterson’s mission of sharing the history of Juneteenth and the

African American experience was to see a reinvigorated 18th

and Vine, including the Kansas City Jazz Museum, the Negro

Leagues Baseball Museum and the Gem Theater. His passion

and presence can still be felt today as the Black Ar-chives prepares this year’s Juneteenth festivities at

18th and Vine, continuing with the emphasis on self improvement.

On Saturday, June 14, 2014, the JuneteenthKC Plan-ning Committee and its partners will host

JuneteenthKC 2014: Picking up the Torch, a heritage festival in the 18th & Vine Historic District. The

event will include youth development and educational activities, adult workshops, community service

awards, musical entertainment, food and other activi-ties sponsored by Black Archives of Mid-America Inc.,

TWELVE Magazine, Full Employment Council, Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, KC Greek Picnic, Never Give Up

Foundation, Know Joey and other organizations.

More information can be found at

www.juneteenthkc.com

JUNETEENTH CELEBRATE

FREEDOM

By Anna Thomas-Rios

http://www.juneteenthkc.com

50

used for studying and attending to other re-

sponsibilities. Stretching the child too thin can

put stress on the entire family, even with just

managing transportation to various activities

for overcommitted students.

Another potential pitfall with extracurricular

activities that parents, coaches, and other in-

structors are subject to is trying to live vicari-

ously through the child, pushing the child to

be passionate about an activity that the adult is

passionate about. This is often done with good

intentions because one can see their student’s

potential, but the adults must be cognizant of the difference between strong encouragement

and brute force.

The advantages of extracurricular activities for

most students far outweigh the potential risks

and an attentive parent, coach or teacher can

usually spot the signs of any issues and resolve

them before they become a real problem.

Unfortunately budget cuts, school funding re-

ductions and other community cutbacks has

forced many area schools to reduce or dis-

continue the amount of free activities that are

available for students, but places like Kansas

City Young Audiences, Boys and Girls Club,

and the YMCA continue to offer scholarships

to help defray costs. There are many free and

low-cost activities still available in the Kansas

City area and Twelve Magazine encourages

you to get your student involved!

Benefits of extracurricular activities:

Expands knowledge

Teaches time management

Productive use of free time

Improves social development

Builds relationships

Diversifies and broadens life experience

Raises self-esteem

Boosts college admission chances

(Continued from page 26)

it’s a lot easier to follow through on what’s important. And

that’s the essence of self-discipline. Self-discipline can’t be a

one-time event. It has to become a lifestyle. To develop a

lifestyle of discipline, one of your tasks must be to challenge

and eliminate any tendency to make excuses. The next time

you’re facing a must-do task and you’re thinking of doing

what’s convenient instead of paying the price, change your

focus. Count the benefits of doing what’s right and then dive

in.

TEACHABILITY Leaders face the danger of contentment with the

status quo. After all, if a leader already possesses influence

and has achieved a level of respect, why should he or she

keep growing? The answer is –– your growth determines

who you are, and who you are determines who you attract,

and who you attract determines the success of your organi-

zation. If you want to grow your organization, you have to

remain teachable. Some people mistakenly believe that if

they can accomplish a particular goal, they no longer have to

grow. It can happen with almost anything: earning a degree,

reaching a desired position, receiving a particular award or

achieving a financial goal. But effective leaders cannot afford

to think that way. The day they stop growing is the day they

forfeit their potential— and the potential of the organiza-

tion. These characteristics will benefit every professional

in the corporate arena.

It is our mission to continue to lead in the creation

of economic and intellectual wealth by empowering minority

business professionals through a wide range of business

forces, including career and educational programs, entrepre-

neurship, lifestyle, and leadership. At our core value is the

empowering of minority business professionals by commit-

ting to make a sustainable and impactful difference in the

communities we enrich, work, and serve in. The footprint

we will strive to leave in the community is only accom-

plished when we have successfully eliminated impoverish-

ment in terms of education, economic opportunities and

personal improvements. The organization remains relevant

today because when predominantly African American com-

munities are successful, the community in whole benefits

from that success. It is in part the needed leadership from

African American professionals to continue to serve their

communities and honor the legacy from which we can ill

afford to allow to fade from memory. For more information regarding the association and

future events, visit our website at www.kcblackmba.com.

(Continued from page 43)

KC BLACK MBAS

http://www.kcblackmba.com

52

Tues 06/10 3rd NETWORK with the 100 Sat 06/14 JuneteenthKC Event type: Community Action Venue: 1616 E. 18th Street : KCMO Time: 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM Producer: Legacy Development, Contact: Makeda peterson Email: [email protected] Sat 06/21 Big Hats & Bow Ties Scholar-ship Affair Event type: Fundraiser Venue: Wine Barn Winery & Vineyard: 2850 N 119th St Kansas City KS Time: 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM Producer: AKA-URO Contact: Courtney Wills Email: Phone: 913.667.9038 Sat 06/21 Christian Women of the Year Event type: Community Action Venue: Jack Reardon Convention Ctr Time: 11:00 AM - 2:30 PM Producer: Alpha Epsilon Zeta Contact: Shellie Stallings Email: [email protected] Sat 06/21 Begin to Evolve, Zeta & Sigma

Blood Drive and Health Fair

Event type: Community Action Venue: Niles Home for Children -Dining

Room: 1911 E. 23rd Street KCMO Time: 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM Producer: Begin to Evolve Contact: Danience Moreland Email: [email protected] Phone: 816-726-

8770 Web: www.redcrossblood.org Thu 06/26 Kansas City Greek Picnic

2014 -Kick Off Event type: Networking Venue: TBA: TBA Kansas City MO Time: 9:00 PM - 12:00 AM Producer: I'm Greek and I'm Proud Contact: KC Greek PIcnic Email:

[email protected] Phone: Web: www.kcgreekpicnic.com Fri 06/27 Stomp Down Step Show - Kan-

sas Greek Picnic 2014 Event type: Community Action Venue: TBA: Kansas City MO Time: 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM Producer: Im Greek & Im Proud Contact: Email: kcgreekpic-

[email protected] Phone: Web: http://kcgreekpicnic.com/

Sat 06/28 Kansas City Greek Picnic 2014 Event type: Community Action Venue: Swope Park: Kansas City MO Time: 12:00 PM - 6:00 PM Producer: I'm Greek and I'm Proud Email: [email protected]

Web: www.kcgreekpicnic.com

kcsoul.com KCs Urban Source. Add Your Events!

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

CALENDAR

[email protected]

#NEW BLACK NON-

PROFITS

SIGN-UP FOR OUR

#12MAG EXCLUSIVE TO

BUILD YOUR AD REVENUE. POST YOUR EVENTS ON

KCSOUL.COM & RAISE DOLLARS EACH

MONTH TO PROMOTE

YOUR ORGANIZATION

EVENTS. Email:

[email protected] for de-

tails

#12MAG JOIN THE TEAM

Writers graphic artists photographers

event planners promoters stylists

#ISKC

@twelvekc

54

SCENE

56

Twelvekc.com

twelve kc magazine six

Documents