Insight Magazine April 2021 by Insight Magazine

April 2021

Bourbon Blow Cocktail Tantilizing your Taste Buds With Sultry Spirits

Harvesting Habits Managing the Fruits of Your Labor

EXCLUSIVE

Maria

Howell

The Songstress, the Actress, the Advocate, the Artist Maria Tells How She Went from The Color Purple to Glistening Gold.

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FRUITY BENEFITS FOR NAP’TURAL HAIR

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CONTENT

42 A Fruitful Flare

Happiness comes in pineapples

A Dai at Sunset

52 Runway Trends

Meet Emerging Designer: Daina Elyse

Fashion Wear For Any Occasion

FEATURES

FUN STUFF

14 Fashion

10 Beard Games

Fashion Models shot by Curtis Lawrence

What does fruit have to do with growing a great beard?

26 Finance Tips to Prepare for Tax Filing Season

30 Food

Making Memories

34 Entertainment The Multi Talented Maria Howell

44 Health and Beauty

GOOD STUFF

Five Fruitful Benefits for the Hair

46 Lifestyle Spending Quality Time: with kids During Summer

8 Ministry Minute Benefits and Blessings of First Fruits

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INSIGHT Magazine is a print and digital publication that highlights insightful views on social events, fashion flares, healthy cuisine, and beauty tips to maintain a saavy and serene lifestyle for all.

Editor -In-Chief Curtis Lawrence Sr.

April 2021

Marion Nathan Summers

Editing Director Krystal Carr Sancho

Bourbon Blow Cocktail Tantilizing your Taste Buds With Sultry Spirits

Harvesting Habits Managing the Fruits of Your Labor

EXCLUSIVE

Maria

Howell

5 +

FRUITY BENEFITS FOR NAP’TURAL HAIR

The Songstress, the Actress, the Advocate, the Artist Maria Tells How She Went from The Color Purple to Glistening Gold.

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West Coast Operations Director Kenneth Friday Creative Director Tricia Milward Chief Finacial Officer Shelton Brown Stylist Tricia Milward Latoya Guest Jozette Cooper MUA/Hairstylist Director of Photography Jeff Leonard Writers Lauren Kelley Krystal Carr Sancho Devona Keel Joylette Hilliard Monica Smith Retina Hogue Contributing Writer Tammie Tolbert Jozette Cooper Leslie Logan Marketing Director Kenneth L. Nichols Sr.

Graphic Design David Johnson Social Media Content Director Curtis A. Lawrence Jr. Public Relations Director Kenneth L. Nichols Sr. INSIGHT Magazine Letters to the Editor: 3340 Robinwood Road STE. 100-517 Gastonia, NC 28054 Attn: Curtis Lawrence www.theinsightmag.com connect@theinsightmag.com

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FROM THE EDITOR Curtis Lawrence Sr., is a native of Gainesville, Florida. Upon graduation from high school he enlisted into the United States Army. He served honorably for 24 years. He toured Germany, Saudi Arabia, and Panama. He retired as one of the top Recruiters in the Raleigh Battalion as On Campus Recruiter for University of North Carolina at Charlotte Army ROTC. Curtis is married to his lovely wife Tonya, a native of Gastonia, North Carolina. Following the birth of his daughter, Curtonia, the realization that he would not be able to share precious memories of her grandmother with her greatly impacted him. In addition to this he realized he only had a few photos of his mother, and the quality wasn’t the best. Thus, his passion to provide quality photos for his family and others was birthed. He has since provided quality images for generations to come. His portfolio contains many celebrities, athletes, chefs, ministers, and authors. Yet, he cherishes photos of his daughter, and sons, Curtis Jr, and Marcus, last but not least his four grandchildren the most. His first booked event was a family member’s wedding, using only a pocket camera The outcome inspired him to pursue and improve his craft. A special thank you to Tracey and Debra for believing in him. Curtis realized he had an eye and natural talent to create beautiful memories. He developed his talent through mentoring and training with professional photographers.

Today, he is a highly sought after photographer. Through the encouragement and support of family and friends, Curtis founded Insight Photography, Gastonia, N.C., where he provides an array of services such as family portraits, weddings, and private and corporate events. Curtis inspires himself to focus and go forth, by reciting his favorite quote “ Faith don’t fail me now.” His firm foundation and faith have allowed him to not only become the founder of Insight Photography, but to become editor and chief of INSIGHT Magazine. Curtis continues to believe in the power of the team, and uplifting his community. He is excited and proud to present this issue, against all odds as it focuses on your total well-being, mind, body, and soul.

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The Benefits and Blessings of First Fruits Giving

By Bishop John McCullough III

ost people seek to find some means that will cause them to develop, progress, and advance in life. Depending upon one’s values, vision, and spirituality as to the choices one chooses as the means to achieving and aspiring toward success.

There perhaps is not any one particular thing that one does that will help one achieve all goals. With education, natural intellect, and opportunities as well as many other aspects together, one can experience new levels of living. For those who are spirited there are methods of reaching out to forces and entities that are personal means of achievement. While spirituality, religion, and man’s reaching outside of self is personal, there are many people who are guided by the principles and practices of the Bible. In it there is a plethora of directives for living and growing in every aspect of life. As it relates to progressing, achieving, and advancing in life, those who adhere to the principles of the bible follow closely its instructions. There is a concept in the bible called first fruits giving. Jesse Wisnewski a writer and marketer for get.tithe.ly speaks to the advantage of believers in the words of the bible as a means for blessing, he states” The concept of first fruits is rooted in biblical times when people lived in an agrarian society. Harvest time was significant because that was when the hard work the farmers had poured into their crops all year began to pay off. They were literally reaping what they sowed.” In the bible book of Leviticus 23:10, it states “When you come into the land which I give you and reap its harvest, then you shall bring a sheaf of the first fruits of your harvest to the priests.” Wisnewski states further,” God called His people to bring the first yield, the first fruits from their harvest to

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Him as an offering. This was to demonstrate the Israelites obedience and reverence for God. It also showed that they trusted God to provide enough crops to feed their family.” The agrarian days are gone but the concepts and principles are still in place. Persons who look outside of themselves and seek the blessings of God for prosperity, advancement, and promotion still practice and participate in first fruit giving. According to another book of the bible, Proverbs, in the third chapter and verse nine it says, “Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the first fruits of all your crops” The promise of blessing comes in the next verse number ten, it states “Then He (God) will fill your barns with grain and your vats will overflow with good wine.” This speaks of the honor that one gives to God by giving will cause God to see that person as one worthy of favor. Believers are in no way naive to think that by bringing first fruits to God there is a special magic that accompanies it. No, the wisdom is that one must continue to envision, pursue goals, and work by faith in order to continue to experience the blessings of God. First fruit giving is the response to God for all that He has done and promises to do. In these days where it appears that people no longer have an honor and reverence for God, many people would see first fruit giving as a ridiculous practice. However, if one wants to continue operating in business, entrepreneurship, functioning in careers, leading families, and desiring to do so in success would do well to investigate the practice of first fruit giving. There are blessings and benefits to this level of trust in God. Work hard, enjoy life and all that it has to offer. Continue to envision, pursue goals, and work by faith. But for added favor in your efforts invite the favor of God in by honoring Him with your first fruits. Watch God do it!

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BEARD GAME What does fruit have to do with growing a great beard? Surprisingly, a lot! by Jozette Cooper

e’ve all heard that greatness comes from within, and we’ve also been told that eating fruit regularly helps our bodies in many ways. So it makes sense that eating certain fruits can help the health of your beard. Even better, natural ingredients in your beard oil and beard care products that contain fruits, vitamins and other minerals can provide even more benefits to your beard and skin. Want the best beard around? Try these combinations of tasty natural treats:

DERRICK J. DENNIS CEO of DZ AFFECT PREMIUM BEARD OILS AIR & EARTH website: dzaffect.com Instagram: @dzaffect

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Oranges

Apples

Oranges include beta carotene and magnesium. They’re a great source of Vitamin C, which help the structure of your hair, plus Vitamin E, which helps provide natural vibrance. Citrus fruit are recommended to help fill in patches, which can be a challenge for people just starting their beard journey.

Besides keeping the doctor away, they also keep beards from looking patchy by strengthening beard hair roots and promoting fuller hair growth. They provide plenty of fiber plus all sorts of healthy vitamins and antioxidants.

Raspberries

Grapes

These fruits include a distinctive type of antioxidant plus certain minerals and vitamins that help your beard grow well. They’re a great source of Vitamin C, which produces collagen, a material that’s good for your skin, absorbs nutrients, and enhances the speed that your beard grows.

These lovely fruits are known for slowing digestion and boosting fatigue. Besides being one of the more fun fruits to eat, they also have all sorts of antioxidants, which help cut down on hair loss and promoting the growth of new hair.

Blueberries Reduce hair loss and better growth? What a combo! That’s what you’ll find with these berries that naturally include all sorts of minerals such as Vitamins A, B5 and E. Vitamin E is also known to boost hair growth while encouraging follicle stimulation.

Plums Plums aid blood circulation and protect hair structure from damage along with the skin around where beard follicles emerge. They also have plenty of Vitamins A, C, K, and B1, plus folate, magnesium, zinc, calcium and phosphate.

Prunes Many of us already know that prunes can give extra umph to our digestion. But they also can cut down on hair loss, stimulate new hair growth, make beards shiny, and slow down the process of going gray. Even better, they’re loaded with Vitamins B, C, and K plus lots of good iron.

Strawberries So many people love these because of the sweet-yet-tart taste. As a snack they are great and provide all sorts of good benefits for beard growth, including Vitamins B and C that help follicle production, hair elasticity and overall strength.

Kiwi This exotic fruit offers plenty of zinc, which helps growth and keeps away dryness and flaking. Plus there’s Vitamin C, E and phosphorus to help your overall circulation.

Avocado Avocado. Another super food with super powers gives protein, Vitamins C and K, folate and omega-3s. They repair damage, cut down on thinning and jump-start nutrients.

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A Dai At Sunset

eet New York based wunderlust Daina Elyse of the Elyse Dai Brand. This emerging designer recently sat down with Insight Magazine and gave us prescience into her upcoming collection. With the desire to make women of all shapes and sizes feel confident and beautiful, Daina has pulled inspiration from her past designs, mistakes, fears, and strength and has embodied them into this elegant chassis entitled “A Dai at Sunset”. “A Dai at Sunset” was inspired by the most brilliant illusions of the setting of the sun. Daina Elyse expresses, “I am in a very transitional period in life and I look at sunsets and believe they represent transition- the transition from day to night. I, personally, love the hues, colors and gradients of a beautiful sunset. The lighting is always beautiful, as all things are, at sunset, no matter where you are or what you are doing. My overall goal as a designer is to create timeless fashion. To create garments that will transition over time and through season. This collection was about creating pieces that are timeless, transitional and beautiful, very much like your every ‘dai’ sunset.”

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Neveah All Yours

ntroducing Neveah! She is such a talented artist that has everything it takes to make it in this industry. She has the look, passion, drive, voice and her sound is unmatched. Neveah has accomplished so much throughout her career:

Neveah began her career in 2006 and has since shared the stage with well accomplished artists such as; Legendary “Keith Sweat”, “H-Town”, Keisha Cole, 112, Ying Yang Twins and Bobby Valentino. Neveahs stage presence electrifying when she performs. She has built up a performance repertoire that combines her passion, persistence and underlying drive for success. She is definitely a well accomplished artist. Neveahs' EP “All yours” Was re-released in 2014. The EP consisted of 4 tracks. Two tracks were pulled from the project as lead singles. The 1st single “Boom” was re-released at the end of 2015 and the video was completed in 2016. The video gained national recognition and won best R&B video at the Carolina Music Video Awards. Her single was also picked up for a movie soundtrack entitled “Go Hard” To be released at the end of 2022 in association with“Gaimchng3r ENT”. Neveah also won best R&B artist of the year in 2019 at the Queen City Music Awards. These are some really great achievements by an independent artist, that many have found difficult to attain so early in their career. Neveah Has collaborated with Top Producers to create that perfect tone Neveah is such a great talent. She makes the right choices as to whom she will work with. Her sound is so unique and different than other R&B artists. She combined her sound with top producer “Krazy Figz." This made a phenomenal sound that later turned into a phenomenal records. Neveahs' production team is outstanding. She has worked with a production team out of “Wealthy Studios” Located in Charlotte, NC. She has also worked with an outstanding production team at “Playground Studios” located in Durham NC, as well as Grand Hustle producer Elliot Stroud in Atlanta GA.

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What you can expect Neveahs' latest project named ” Yours Truly" was soft launched in 2019. Her single off this EP is called Someone Real. This single has catipolted Neveah to a global audience and is currently still available on all digital platforms so go get it! Neveah is currently working on a new EP with the lead single dropping this SUMMER! Stay tuned for live performances and new releases to come!

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Lifestyle

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BANDEAU

VIBES SHOP TODAY! WWW.RIVER5IVE.COM INSTAGRAM/FACEBOOK @RIVER5IVE RIVER 5IVE®

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Tips to Prepare for Tax-Filing Season

As the start of a new year in ushered in, it is a good idea to start thinking about how to handle federal and state tax returns. The IRS begins accepting 2020 returns on Jan. 27, 2021. Even if financial situations are simple and straightforward, it pays to make sure to be up-to-date and actively working to reduce tax bills, thus reducing anxieties associated with tax seasons.

DOUBLE CHECK YOUR PAYCHECK If an insufficient amount of taxes are deducted from your paycheck, it’s a possibility to be required to invest a little more into Uncle Sam at tax time. If your contribution is excessive, a refund is the rewards — but, maybe a little money in your pocket every week is more sufficient than an annual repayment.

DECIDE WHO WILL PREPARE AND FILE YOUR TAXES If major changes occurred in 2020 —marriage, divorce, or business startup—taxes may be more complicated and time consuming. As a result, the need to hire a CPA or other tax professional to prepare and file your taxes may be necessary. Make provisions and decisions early on. Waiting until April could mean penalties.

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Shelton Brown, CPA, MBA Chief Executive Officer ACTHR

Finance

SHIELD YOURSELF FROM TAX SCAMS AND FRAUDS

MAKE SURE BENEFITS DESIGNATIONS ARE UP-TO-DATE

CONSIDER “BUNCHING” DEDUCTIONS

As tax season approaches, many people start receiving phone calls, emails and text messages from entities claiming to be the IRS. The most important thing is to disregard telephone calls or emails from those who pretend to be the IRS or the U.S. Treasury, governmental organizational entities such as these will send mailed correspondence rather than make direct phone contact, unless litigation is in order.

Beneficiary designations won’t affect taxes as of right now, but they will affect the taxes of heirs in the future.

The standard deductions are nearly double what they were in times past, making it hard to itemize. The 2020 deductions are: $12,400 for individuals, $18,650 for heads of household, and $24,800 for married couples filing jointly. Taxpayers who don’t have enough deductions to surpass those thresholds take their standard deduction.

I warn against “shopping a refund” to find a preparer who promises a bigger refund. The tax preparer who makes that promise is likely to be unscrupulous and can cause trouble for both parties.

The end of the year is a great time to review beneficiaries and make any changes that are needed. Why is that important? Down the road, it will help minimize the taxes beneficiaries and heirs pay on assets after a death.

“Bunching” deductions is recommended to exceed the thresholds, if possible. Bunching is when timed expenses are pushed into the same calendar year as deductible expenses. This can be achieved by moving certain deductions, such as charity donations, or prepaying January’s mortgage payment forward in the current year.

DON’T IGNORE THE IRS! Taxpayers that don’t file returns and owe taxes, or that file but don’t pay taxes on time are at risk for serious penalties. The IRS can seize assets if necessary. If the IRS has been sending you letters due to errors on a return or claim back taxes are owed, respond in writing — and don’t delay! If correspondence is not received to IRS; it’s a loss, as simple as that. The IRS has strong lien and levy powers. Don’t be surprised if wages are garnished or a lien is ordered at a residence. It is very important to respond to all notices in a timely manner to avoid any mishaps.

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Eric and Dena Brice 1132 S. Main St. Mount Holly NC 28120

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Tiffany Dunn, Broker/Realtor Licensed in NC and SC Mathers Realty 11535 Carmel Commons Blvd #102 Charlotte, NC 28226 980-999-1107 dunndeal@mathersrealty.com

Living in the Carolinas Why Wait? The housing market has remained strong during this pandemic. While safety measures and precautions continue to be a priority, the dream of home ownership is becoming real every day. With interest rates being at historical lows, consumers are taking advantage of increased buying power in the real estate market. The demand for homes and low inventory creates the perfect scenario for sellers to benefit as well. Contact Tiffany Dunn Experience The “Dunn Deal”! 980-999-1107, dunndeal@mathersrealty.com

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Chef Monica

FOOD

Making Memories

ven at an early age, Chef Monica loved being in the kitchen. She and her brother also always talked about how much fun it would be to cook professionally and maybe own a restaurant.

But it took the tragedy of his death to push her to make these culinary dreams a reality. She went back to school to not only learn how to make great food but make it look wonderful. Today she’s considered a celebrity chef known for creative – and healthy -- variations on Southern cooking. She also has her own line of spices, Chef Monica Blends. Her brother’s legacy has led to other positives. She’s even more conscious that life is short, tomorrow isn’t promised, and it’s so vital to value everything that life gives you. Chef Monica enjoys encouraging others to feel the same and find opportunities to connect and experience wonderful things together, an approach that can lead to a lifetime of good memories rather than regret. You don’t have to necessarily go big either right away. Simply start by having a meal together as a family. Bring together brothers and sisters, parents and children, grandchildren and grandparents, close friends, neighbors and anyone else close to you. Share favorite family dishes and the traditions and stories behind them. Put aside any past grievances for a meal together at least.

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She dedicates an upcoming issue of Insight magazine to “Firstfruits,” and encourages readers to take the initiative to start the process of bringing their loved ones together rather than waiting for someone else to do it or until it’s too late. Chef Monica believes that someone needs to be the keeper of generational secrets – especially the recipes – and make sure they’re properly passed down to the next generation. This process can help keep family bonds together over the years and also can provide a strong sense of identity and a circle of support for everyone. The concept of Firstfruit has taken on new meaning due to all the social changes from the COVID pandemic. Many of us had to be so isolated and lonely for so long, but now there are more opportunities to get together safely and start making memories again. Chef Monica invites us all to take advantage of this time, whether it’s taking vacations together, planning meals or even starting new traditions together.

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Bourbon Blow Cocktail Prep Time: 12 mins Yields: 1 Ingredients • • • • • • • •

1 Cinnamon Stick, roasted (optional) ½ tsp. minced ginger 8 mint leaves 2 pineapple wedges for garnish 2 ounces of Jack Daniel’s ® Apple Bourbon 1 oz. of simple syrup ¼ cut of Gala Apples, thin sliced 3 cups of Ice

Preparation 1. Heat oven to 350°F. Roast cinnamon stick on a single sheet layer of foil, in oven for 5 minutes until fragrant; then set aside. 2. In a shaker, muddle the ginger, 5 mint leaves and 1 of the pineapple wedges to release the juice and flavors. 3. Next, add the Jack Daniel’s ® Apple Bourbon, simple syrup and then ice. 4. Cover the top and shake vigorously for about 3-5 minutes. 5. Strain the drink into a high-ball glass filled with remaining ice and garnish with apple slices, leftover mint and cinnamon stick. 6. Serve over Ice and drink responsibly; 21 and over.

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Entertainment

The Multi Talented Maria Howell by Joylette Hilliard

ndeniable passion and raw talent, often tug at the hearts of human nature causing us to marval at the wonder of others and find ourselves captivated by their creativity. Before Gastonia, N.C. native Maria Howell even opens her mouth, her presence draws you in creating a magical experience from the onset.

Her daily mantra is to reflect on what she can do to make the current day better than yesterday. In order to handle her hectic, yet rewarding career, she relies on her to-do list. This includes phone calls, replying to text messages, sending and responding to e-mails and doing interviews, as well as recording voiceovers. Let’s not forget her singing gigs, both public and private. She is often booked beyond her human capacities.   In order to maintain her peaceful place, she always tries to attend church on Sunday, no matter what city she’s in at the time. Her guilty pleasures are her love of cartoons, and reading a good book. Her family is her number one priority and she intentionally finds time to call loved ones and tell them she loves them. The Vocalist The path of her singing career began as a child, in her church choir, St. Paul Baptist Church in Gastonia. Some of her musical influences include Nancy Wilson,  Billie Holiday , Ernestine

MH Anderson, Sarah Vaughn, Carmen McRae and Ella Fitzgerald. All these great women impacted  the great artist she is today.  Maria has shared the musical stage with such artists as Ray Charles, Ronnie Laws, George Benson, Earl Klugh, and Nancy Wilson. She recently did a virtual concert with Mavis McCready, the pastor from Greenleaf.  Her gift has opened many doors for her, she spent six years abroad in Asia. She recently returned to N.C. after residing in California for years.

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The Thespian Maria is a graduate of Winston-Salem State University where she majored in Biology and minored in Chemistry and a proud member of (Gamma Phi Chapter) Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. Spring '81. “However she said, “from the age of 6 years old, I knew I was going to sing and act”. Often our passion will lead us into unknown territory. A recent college graduate Howell heard about a casting call for The Color Purple. Her passion overruled her fear and she took a chance. Upon arrival she was met by 3,000 others pursuing their dreams as well. Howell wasn’t selected for the role, but her courage led her to approach the casting director, to ask if her headshot be kept on file. Still motivated she took another risk, and informed him that she could sing. The casting director, asked, “What song do you know?”. She responded, “God Bless the Child”. Well, how about she sang the song in his ear!!! This bold chance led to a screen test, and the rest is history.  The Color Purple is a classic movie, and you can view Maria singing the song, “God Is Trying to Tell You Something”. This movie advanced  her career and opened many doors for her.  Maria’s TV appearances include Army Wives, Devious Maids, Revolution, Aquarius, Criminal Minds, Saints and Sinners,The Resident, and most recently Judge Adora Morrison on the new hit TV show  “Delilah”.  Her film credits include The Blind Side, Addicted, Hunger Games, Catching Fire, and Christmas Wedding Baby, and Hidden Figures.  Maria, continues to humbly acknowledge that all good and perfect gifts come from the Lord.  The Voiceover Artist Maria is a sought-after voiceover artist. Voiceover work is highly prized, and quite competitive in the entertainment industry. Maria  loves this challenge, as it provides her with the opportunity to play different characters.  Her voiceover credits include commercials for Nike, McDonald’s, Story Mode video games, several book narrations, and trailer promotional spots for Turner Classic Movies. The Community Advocate Maria has a heartfelt affinity to help others. She expressed that she has a calling to help others, especially the next generation. She currently serves on the Advisory Boards of www.studentswithoutmothers.org and www.toscomusic. org, a non-profit organization that presents a wide variety of music through performances and outreach programs. Her most recent partnership is located in her hometown of Gastonia, NC, with the Gaston Arts Council and www. legacymusic.co where she continues to coach and mentor rising artist, in the areas of singing, acting, and voiceover. Maria, believes that all her life accomplishments are attributed to her parents William “Buddy” and Virginia Howell. They lived to see her dreams come true, and today as they both rest in peace, Maria continues to honor them, and relish in all the values, prayers, and support that they shared with she and her siblings.   Maria is an amazing talent, she exhibits her faith daily, and continues to excel in her calling! Keep your eyes open, because you never know what’s next for this great talent.

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Chef Alisha Pierri

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A Fruitful Flare by Raegan Dennis

ark spots, age lines, breakouts, and the modernistic mask face are undoubtedly the signs of the times. The attention given to these irritating imperfections can cause a great wave of online scouring to procure the latest greatest skincare fad to remedy what’s ailing our skin. The angst and anticipation can become overwhelming as a rush of excitement overtakes the wishful women that invest in new cleansers, toners, moisturizers, and serums in hopes to rejuvenate and revitalize their appearance. These newly found products are often used consistently for a few days and the test of effectiveness lies within the guileless mirror on the wall. The wish is that this magic mirror will give the instant results we want to see. However, peeking into the glass encasement of our faces only solidifies the reality that the skin looks exactly the same, or worse. With the worsening condition of the face, this may be the one time to be thankful a mask will camouflage any breakouts, blemishes, or blotches. Before purchasing another set of genie bottles that rub you the wrong way, you should consider perusing the kitchen. This is where the real skin heroes reside. If you happen to be running low on fresh fruits, a quick trip to the local grocers market will remedy that. Here are 6 fruitful restoratives that will have you glowing from the inside out. Oranges Orange you lovely… Oranges are filled with Vitamin C, a fiber which helps with collagen production that keeps the skin firm. The natural oils and antioxidants in oranges keeps the skin hydrated and prevent signs of premature aging. Strawberries Strawberry kisses…Strawberries are also rich in Vitamin C and contain ellagic acid which is a natural protector from UV rays and an effective agent in reducing visible signs of aging. One of the more

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popular ingredients in facial products, salicylic acid, is found in strawberries. Acne-prone skin will not stand a chance against its antibacterial and antiinflammatory agent. Have no fear strawberries are here to save the skin. Avocados Buy me an avocado and tell me I’m pretty…This Vitamin A, E and C -rich fruit is a fan favorite that has many benefits for the skin. Among the many advantages, avocados prevent breakouts, speeds up the healing process, and naturally moisturizes the skin while it helps to maintain the health of the two main layers of the skin. The fats and nutrients found in avocados help the skin remain flexible and protects the skin from environmental damage. Watermelon It’s all in the name. Watermelon is 92% water which is key in keeping your skin hydrated. Hydrated skin is soft skin. The texture of your skin can be improved by the antioxidant, lycopene, by reversing damage to collagen, prevent discoloration and prevent fine lines that lead to wrinkles. Pineapples Happiness comes in pineapples… Pineapples offer a great source of Vitamins A and C. This fruit has a secret ingredient that your skin will love. Bromelain, a natural anti-inflammatory that can assist in healing, skin texture, and reducing acne symptoms. Bananas It’s banana’s… b.a.n.a.n.a.s. Are vitamin-rich containing Vitamins A, C, E, and K. Vitamin K is essential for clotting blood and has been known to minimize the appearance of spider veins and stretch marks. The real star of this particular fruit is folate. Folate regenerates cell growth within the skin tissues and keeps red blood cells healthy. Bananas are also a good source of natural moisture.

MEET ANITA Philanthropist Entrepreneur Model

Skincare begins with clean eating. Remember the old saying, “You are what you eat”, and who doesn’t want to be fruitful and multiply? If you want that natural glow, try adding these delectable delights to your diet. Whether you have a bowl of fruit as a snack, add a few slices to your salad, or make a smoothie, your skin will thank you.

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e’ve all heard that greatness comes from within, and we’ve also been told that eating fruit regularly helps our bodies in many ways.

So it makes sense that eating certain fruits can help the health of your beard. Even better, natural ingredients in your beard oil and beard care products that contain fruits, vitamins and other minerals can provide even more benefits to your beard and skin. Want the best beard around? Try these combinations of tasty natural treats:

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Tutti Fruity Five Fruitful Benefits for the Hair by Shatavia McBride

Oranges: Prevents Hair Loss This fruit is rich in Vitamin C and also have antioxidant and antibacterial properties. Vitamin C deficiency can cause hair loss or damage and it is critical in production of collagen, which strengthens the hair.

Peach: Keeps Scalp Healthy Peaches are a chocked full of vitamins and mineral. Vitamin A & C, potassium, and fiber to name a few stimulates growth by keeping the scalp nice and healthy.

Banana: Strengthens Hair

Bananas have been proven to be hair growth promoter also as well as to prevent hair loss. It is also known to improve the health of your scalp. Bananas have Vitamin B and can cause relief from split ends and hair breakage. Bananas are also a great agent in soothing your hair from damages caused by sun exposure, dust and pollution.

Lime: Stimulates Hair Growth Reduce hair loss and better growth? What a combo! That’s what you’ll find with these berries that naturally include all sorts of minerals such as Vitamins A, B5 and E. Vitamin E is also known to boost hair growth while encouraging follicle stimulation.

Cherry: Prevents Breakage

Cherries are packed with Vitamin B and Vitamin C that helps prevents breakage along with keeping your scalp moisturized, healthy, lustrous and soft. Cherries also contain melatonin which helps treat sleep deficiency, jet lag and have antiinflammatory properties.

So the next time you think about spending a lot of money on hair treatments, pay attention to your diet which is the first step towards your goal of healthy hair. INSIGHT MAGAZINE

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Spending Quality Time with Kids During Summer

by Cherie Feemster

chool is out, which means no assigned homework, extra free time, and more time to relax! These are some of the first thoughts that come to mind for parents and children when the word “Summer” is stated. As a parent I look forward to moments to enjoy more family time, family activities, and simply more opportunities to really take things easy and do FUN things uninterrupted. Summertime creates time and space for bonding with children. It’s an opportunity to learn more about their interests and also simply to listen to their thoughts, which promotes and establishes positive relationship moments! Not only does summer provide more family time, but also a word that we sometimes may fear: PLANNING! To ensure your summer is spent productively, positively remembered, and things are done in balance between what both you and your children enjoy doing, it’s vital to allow yourself time to create and execute these plans. As parents our minds sometimes run faster than our feet. Therefore, we have to be sure a plan is in place. It should include the ideas and thoughts of everyone within the family. I once thought of 10 things I believed my children and family wanted to do. To my surprise they only wanted to do only about TWO! To help make the most out of quality time with family, try these simple tips! Make a list of places or activities to do as a family Be sure EVERYONE is involved in contributing ideas. You can create your own list as a parent but also allow your children to come up with their own ideas of how to spend summer quality time. This way you can start by identifying the ones you all have

in common, which can reduce ‘debate’ time! Include home activities With where we are in our society, including the COVID pandemic, we’re not back to normal just yet. So planning stay-at-home activities may be necessary. They can include a weekly movie night, a cooking project, a family paint night, a game night or Family Olympics. I have also included a link for other fun family Olympic ideas! (https://www.pinterest.com/gameonfamily/ family-olympics-games) Have fun When planning your lists, be sure that you have FUN! Spending quality time means enjoying everyone’s company while strengthening family bonds. FUN is The one thing that is remembered the most when memories are made during quality time together! Hopefully with these tips you will begin to strategically plan quality family time. Summer is not just time for sun but time to bond, and for intentional quality time to be spent and made memorable. About Cherie Feemster As an educator for more than 13 years, Cherie Feemster has a strong passion to motivate and inspire students, families, and communities to cultivate positive relationships within their homes and environments. She is an Educational Advocate and Regional Director of the North Carolina Association of Educators where she trains educational leaders to grow their leadership skills, as well as supporting them in leadership roles. Cherie graduated from Ashford University with a degree in Early Childhood Education and North Carolina A&T State University with a Master of Arts in Teaching. Cherie’s continuous goal is to impact and empower all those she may encounter. INSIGHT MAGAZINE

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s we continue to adapt to a world interrupted by a global pandemic, it was a beautiful sight to attend the Melanie Caballero Runaway Collection Show and The Fashion Show hosted by Charlotte Seen. Insight Magazine was on the scene for both. The three o’clock show featured twelve designers and was inspired by the movie The Lion King. The lobby was filled with vendors and patrons of the show. Backstage the children were getting their hair and makeup done. Some were practicing their walks, and some were discombobulated and looked confused about where they were supposed to be. Nevertheless, the show went on. The children executed each designer’s outfit with such grace and swag. The designers embodied the theme very efficiently. They opened the show with a tribal dance that captivated the audience. The models really took their roles seriously. I could not pick a favorite. The seven o’clock show started a little late, however, it made cocktail hour that much more fun. Cocktail hour started at 6:30pm. Guest were encouraged to mingle and that is exactly what happened. The evening show was a full house that included several VIP guests that were front row and centered. The fashion was impeccable all around. This show featured fifteen designers and they were all absolutely, stunning as well. This was my first Charlotte Seen Event, but it most definitely will not be my last.

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Insight Magazine April 2021

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