Huami Magazine May 2013

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May/June 2013 Volume 3 Issue 2 FREE

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Letter From the Editor/Founder

A Priceless Original, or A Cheap Copy Are you a priceless original, or a cheap copy? That was a question asked by a minister during one recent Sunday morning service at church. To be quite honest, I didn’t have a ready answer. Maybe because I didn’t know for sure. Not wanting to sound too self centered, I have always considered myself unique, original, and even once boasted that God broke the mold after He created me. Without question, I love my twin brother, but I still strive to be original. I admit that I have been a follower and tried to look a certain way while in search for acceptance. Those were childish ambitions, so long ago and forgiven. But on that morning I wanted to know my own self value and worth.

www.huamimagazine.com Editor In Chief

Terry L. Watson Writers

The answer falls between who and what impresses me the most and my biggest influences. The things that I surrender to or answer during my most trying moments. I’m definitely not a cheap copy, at least I can say that out loud. However, I’ve learned that whatever I take in, will come out. If I am influenced by something positive and yield positive actions, I am commended. But when my behavior is less favorable, it too is rooted in something that I have allowed to pierce my soul. Too much exposure to negative influences can diminish our self-worth and make us feel and appear cheap.

I continued to ask myself questions. When you look in the mirror what do you see? When you walk throughout your home or look at the car you drive, what do you see? Is it someone or something you saw on television, heard on the radio, noticed online, or passed along during your day? Is it a reflection of you? Am I untainted and uninfluenced? Innocent or guilty of committing lifes’ common and ordinary sins. Do I look and sound like someone I admire?

If you have something good, you will eventually impress someone and chances are it will be copied. Still, I want to see myself as a priceless original. I want to let my light shine on everyone that God has placed along my path. I want to use my gifts and talents to help make the lives of others better. To accomplish this, I must realize my own value. I can’t sell my soul to worldly riches and temptations. When the world looks at me, I want them to see my originality and not an impersonation. God made me just as He saw fit. He wants the best for me and in knowing that, I must work hard each day to be original, a priceless original.

Tonya Dixon Terry L. Watson Alana Allen Photographers

Howard Gaither Dr. Tiffany Fuller Perfect Lenz Photogrphy Charles Media Photography Still Shots Photography Layout

Mykel Media Company Linda Bennett

mykelmedia@yahoo.com (336) 340-7844 HUAMI MAGAZINE is published quarterly by the Mykel Media Company. Any reproduction of any portion of this publication is prohibited without written permission from the publisher prior to doing so. Mykel Media doesn’t accept responsibility for statements made by individuals featured or advertisers. Comments concerning this publication may be submitted to the editor by E-mail at terrywatson@huamimagazine.com terry.editor@yahoo.com or to Mykel Media Company P.O. Box 20102 Greensboro, NC 27420 HUAMI MAGAZINE 2013 All Rights Reserved SUBSCRIPTIONS AVAILABLE Have Huami Magazine delivered to your home or office. Send Money Order for $16.00 for 4 issues to our P.O. Box, and allow three weeks before first issue is delivered. Include subscriber contact information with phone number. No Refunds Allowed.

Terry L. Watson 4

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On The Cover Photo by Still Shots Photography

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CONTENTS

A Dominion Authority

18

May/June 2013

The Upholstery Doctor

12

New Faces of Mt. Zion

16

Also Inside..........................

8

Educational Playtime Too, Inc.

Lei Lei’s Cuisines

20 May/June 2013

Shayla Thompson

Golf Tournament NC A&T Sports HOF

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Community Pet Supply Store Proformance Pet Supply Living Healthy EM Creative Fitness Babrber & Cosmetology Forum Salons Services Three Year Anniversary Kotur Kutz Hair Salon Bright Glossy Lips Bovanti Cosmetics & Spa Cutest Baby Contest Sumbit Your Photo

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Body & Soul

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Community Connection

GREENSBORO

By Terry L. Watson Photo by Mykel Media Company

7th Annual Golf Tournament NC A&T State University Sports Hall of Fame have fun and compete against others who share the same passion.

Scheduled for September 13th, 2013, the tournament will take place at Crooked Tree Golf Course in Browns Summit, N.C. Event organizer Richard Lide expects this years tournament to surpass all previous ones in regards to attendance, participation, and fun.

The purpose of this event is provide financial assistance to the NC A&T Athletic Department and promote the rich Aggie heritage of athletic excellence in all sports.

This Aggie SHOF is a non-profit organization and all proceeds will support scholarship efforts.

You don’t have to possess the skill set of professional golfer to participate and enjoy the experience that the 7th Annual Golf Tournament presented by the NC A&T State University Sports Hall of Fame. All that is required is a desire to

Format is Captains Choice. Beginning at 7:00am with on site registration, Tee time will take off at 8:00am sharp. Prizes include 1st, 2nd, and 3rd & 4th Place Awards. (Longest Drive - Men & Women, Closest to the Pin Par 3 - Men & Women). The cost to participate is $85 (per Golfer), or $340 (per four person team).

There are sponsorship packages available for groups and organizations. Sponsorship packages are available. They include a Title Sponsor for $5000, company name and/or Logo on site at all HOF Events, VIP entrance to Reception, Luncheon and Hospitality Activities, and four (4) HOF Game tickets. Gold sponsorship for $3000 offers a One Half Page Ad in Souvenir Booklet and four (4) HOF tickets.

Blue Sponsorship for $2000 offers two (2) HOF Game Tickets, and logo in HOF brochure.

The NC A&T SHOF is lead by President Garry Blackwell, Golf Chairperson Richard Lide, Golf Committee members Ralph Brown, Vern Stallings, Levarry Covington, Craig Thompson, Jerry Kimbrough, and Patricia Wall.

For more information please contact the event organizers office at 336-455-9915. h

Open Sundays 12pm - 6pm

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Spend Mother’s Day and Father’s Day with us. We are also available for Family Reunions and other Celebrations

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2006 W Vandalia Rd, Greensboro, NC 27407 www.SundaysDinner.webs.com (336)855-0204

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Community Connection

GREENSBORO Terry L. Watson Photo by Mykel Media Company

Proformance Pet Supply A Community Based Pet Store Proformance Pet Supply is committed to providing quality products at affordable prices.

Their goal is to make pet health care affordable to all pet owners.

Food, a raw dog food made in North Carolina, that offers several different formulas made from all natural, hormone-free chicken and beef.

The store carries Thomas Lab Supplements, all of which are human-grade and cannot be found in any other retail store in the state.

In addition to the impressive list of dog food and supplements, Proformance Pet Supply provides all the everyday necessities such as vaccines, shampoos, collars and leashes at very low prices.

Proformance Pet Supply carries a wide range of products to promote optimal dog health.

Their product line is carefully selected to ensure quality and tailored to suit the needs of their valued community. Many brands offered are exclusive and cannot be found anywhere else in Greensboro, and even some places throughout North Carolina.

Proformance Pet Supply is a community-based pet store, catering to dogs of all breeds from the everyday pet to the working dog. Based in eastern Greensboro, they’re conveniently located and easily accessible from Wendover Avenue.

Owners Antonio Duggins and Carlton Bryson are happy to provide their products and services as they love animals are share a concern for the overall welfare and health of them. “As breeders and pet owners we can take love and expertise of animals and share it with the community. It’s great when you can take something you have passion for and turn it into a profitable business also,” they say. h

The store is proud to carry the full line of Victor dog food, which acquires all of its ingredients from the USA, and is gluten and grain free, containing no corn, soy, or wheat.

Proformance Pet Supply also offers Prey Pet

The Sweet Shop Homemade Pound Cakes by Margaret Elaine Designs, LLC. 631 S. Elm Street Suite A Greensboro, NC 27401 (336)790-0242

May/June 2013

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Tanika

Her Voice and Vision

By Tonya Dixon Photos by Still Shots Photography

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hankful, humble, and loyal. Three words that accurately describes the feeling Ms. Tanika has every morning when arriving at her child care center, Educational Playtime Too! Inc. Over the past few years Ms. Tanika has moved and expanded her educational facility multiple times. The constant growth and prosperity comes from not only providing a safe and nurturing environment for all children, but it also comes from having an astute knowledge of how children learn, grow, and develop. While her parents are pleased with the love their children receive, she says it’s about the success of the children, and maintaining a happy staff and a strong support system.

In 2011, she decided to move her business to its current location with a small number of children under her care, to a larger facility that has eight classrooms and a indoor recreation room. “The initial thought of growing to that size was scary for a short moment. After thinking about how much I had been blessed with constant enrollment, I felt at ease and ready for the challenge,” she says. The size will not determine the success of her business. Ms. Tanika says the services and love that she puts into it will. The support of families, those that were enrolled then and even now continues to fuel her passion.

“Ninety-five percent of the children enrolled came from referrals by our current and past families and other supporters in the community,” Ms. Tanika says.

“Educational Playtime Too! has a great reputation and I am committed to maintaining the image and integrity of my company. When potential clients come to visit the facility, they always leave feeling very pleased with our developmental plan and services.”

Ms. Tanika has made a host of significant changes, additions and upgrades that makes not only the children happy, but her parents and staff remain loyal. If one great facility was not enough, she has made the genius decision to franchise her brand and make it available for others who are qualified to buy in. In the Summer of 2013, a second center is scheduled to open on East Wendover Avenue in Greensboro. She says she is excited to be able to serve a different area of the triad. The facility will be mirrored just like the flagship center but it will offer much needed care for special needs children. The second facility will serve children 6 weeks- 12 years of age. In addition this facility will also offer before and after school care for children, including those that have special needs that might attend Gateway Education Center, which is less than a mile away.

All teachers at the second facility will also have degrees in Special Education and Early Education. She believes her decision to expand into other locations will allow other families the opportunity to have access to more and better quality childcare. She whole-heartedly stands behind her facility and her approach to early childhood education and a higher standard of learning.

“Educational Playtime Too! has a great reputation and I am committed to maintaining the image and integrity of my company”

Continued on page 11

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Continued from page 9 The premise and success behind Educational Playtime Too! is that children flourish when they receive more individualized care and attention. It’s the exact reason why Ms. Tanika purposely keeps her student and teacher ratio lower than the state maximum. Everyone is extremely hands on at the center, including Ms. Tanika and the parents. She knows them all by first and last name as well as their parents, grandparents, and siblings. The parents are also heavily involved and it’s something the staff really encourages and stresses as being vitally important to their child’s overall development. “I don’t even have to make it a requirement,” she says. “The parents want to participate because we teach the families about developmental milestones, so they know what to expect for their children to be successful. If the parents know in advance then they can assist with the teacher’s overall objectives—we’re bridging the gap for our students.”

The center regularly has family fun nights, providing school information, food and beverages, games and much more. It’s a perfect way for everyone to get involved. In addition, there are scholastic book fairs, which provide great opportunities for parents to purchase materials for home, as well as introduce students to activities they should expect when entering the school system. Newsletters also go out on a regular basis to keep parents updated with all things regarding the center.

Ms. Tanika is dedicated to making sure her centers are safe for students and staff and has implemented a strong security presence. Parents are given codes to use, which correspond with their child. In addition to cameras, Panic buttons are installed in every classroom which goes directly to emergency services thereby decreasing response times. The protection the children are given is immeasurable especially in light of recent tragic events involving schools.

Educational Playtime Too! Inc. strives to offer many services to accommodate the growing needs of working families in our community. When traditional pre-kindergarten programs end for the year, many parents are left trying to find places for their rising five-year-olds to go. Unlike any other center in Greensboro, Educational Playtime Too! offers a competitive preschool summer camp. Each classroom does regular assessments for each child to make sure they are meeting their developmental milestones. There are specialists that come to the facility to screen children beginning at the age of two. Additionally, therapist and specialist in all areas come weekly to provide services for children that qualify. This is an extra measure taken by Ms. Tanika to ensure her center is reaching each child and providing them with everything that is needed during their early years.

Ms. Tanika also strives to employ individuals who have a degree in Early Childhood Education, or on target to obtain one. It is also a goal for her to have 100% of her staff to be at the highest level of education that is possible. She emphatically states that her center is on target to reach that goal having multiple staff members graduating from NC A&T State University and Guilford Technical Community College in Spring. Many of those graduating will also have their NC Birth – Kindergarten Teaching License. “Being a graduate of NC A&T myself, with a Early Education Degree and teaching license, I know the importance of each staff member getting that foundational knowledge. It is required to help our children be successful in the classroom,” she says. In addition the staff attends on going training and workshops to sharpen their skills and knowledge of early education. h

May/June 2013

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GREENSBORO

Eugene Fewell

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The Upholstery Doctor

By Terry L. Watson Photos by J. Harris Photography

T

he next time you decide to redecorate your home you may want to think twice about placing your old and used furniture by the curb side. There is someone who is capable of bringing life back into your ill-fated discards.

Eugene Fewell is known by many as the “Upholstery Doctor.” Selfdescribed as a creative, religious and family man, he was born and raised in Greensboro, N.C. and graduated from Walter H. Page High School.

While there he developed a love for upholstery. After high school, he attended GTI (now Guilford Technical Community College) and obtained a degree in upholstery and acquired additional skills to upholster cars and boats.

Before

The first item he ever made with his own hands was a bedroom set for his parents wedding anniversary. He was the first African American to receive a G.S.A. contract to reupholster furniture at Fort Bragg, Pope Air Force Base, Camp Lejeune and Shaw Air Force Base. He has also taught the craft of upholstery at Fayetteville Technical Community College. Fewell says he started his business because he loves his craft. “Nothing is more beautiful than taking a badly damaged item and rescuing it. Watching it being restored, layer by layer, to its original or even better condition is what makes my job all worth it,” he says. He is able to recycle old furniture by recovering it with new fabrics, leathers and cushions. “Whatever the costumer needs to make the furniture look better than new,” he says.

Just like the rest of the furniture industry, the upholstery segment has suffered their share of blows from an unstable economy. Fewell says he’s also challenged by overseas imports. “People buy these pieces because of their low cost. However, their frames, fabrics, and paddings are of poor quality,” he says.

In other words, it makes more sense to buy furniture that is made in America, or reupholstered by him than from outside our borders. Fewell says his greatest joys come from his family involvement within the business. “When my wife Christine assists me, and also when my son, Gene and my daughter, Tonya allow my grandchildren to help in the shop, it strengthens our family bond,” he says emphatically. “I am blessed to be able to teach them a trade and also a lesson in pride.”

After

Additionally, he says customer satisfaction is the most important thing he can offer to anyone. He is inspired by other design companies, artwork that has various styles, and also patterns. The typical cost of a restored piece by the Upholstery Doctor depends on the piece itself, materials and labor. The turnaround time is usually three to four weeks. h

Before

The Upholstery Doctor 1601 Yanceyville Street Greensboro, NC 27405 (336)314-9027 After

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GREENSBORO

Kotur Hair Kutz Salon

Latonya Cunningham can be described as a seasoned stylist. With over 21 years of experience, she’s inspired by powerful women such as Michelle Obama and Maya Angelou. Styling hair is something she always wanted to do. After graduating from Carolina Beauty College with her professional styling license, her career began.

Taking the advice given to her by her instructor, she has continued to polish her styling skills by looking for new and innovative methods for creating spectacular styles. Making individuals look and feel beautiful about themselves is what she loves most about being a stylist.

Regina Mumford offers personality, superior customer service, and takes pride in being a team player at Kotur Kutz. She simply loves styling hair and everything that it encompasses. “The way a client feels and looks after receiving my services, from start to finish is very important to me. I strive to make them happy and it is easier when they look and feel beautiful,” she says. After receiving her professional license in Danville, Va., she has enjoyed a career that has lasted nearly 20 years. She says she was inspired by her mother and grandmother who were both hair stylists.

“They really laid some hair in their day and made it shine. I wanted to do that too as I watched them.”

Amber Foster has been styling hair for five years and specializes in quick weaves and sew-ins. What she loves most about styling hair is the transformation experience, seeing her clients come in one way and leave feeling more beautiful and excited about the services she has provided them with. She is a graduate of S&E Neal’s Beauty School in Reidsville, N.C. She is inspired by the entire Kotur Kutz styling team and the pleasant and encouraging work environment it provides. She says her son and mother have impacted her life and career the most and serves as the most important reasons why she strives to be a better stylist today, than she was yesterday. h

Kotur Kutz Hair Salon 1042 Westside Drive Greensboro, NC 27405 (336)412-5959 www.koturkutz.com

Regina Mumford Tamica Fuller

A native of Greensboro, Fuller graduated from Ragsdale High School before attending Guilford Technical Community College. She later received her professional styling instruction from Dudley’s Advance Training. She says her number one motivator has always been Douglas. “He pushed me to be the leader that I am. He believed in me when I didn’t believe in myself,” says Fuller. Her goal as a stylist is to be creative and give her clients a look they will want to come and get again. For anyone interested in sitting in Fuller’s chair, she encourages you to be on time.

Fuller is a passionate educator, stylist and salon owner that’s committed to raising the standards in the hair industry. She will educate, motivate, and teach new weave techniques, and also share her salon team building and ownership skills. She has published hair styles featured in Hype Hair Magazine, Fabulous, and Universal Salon and also served as a traveling stylist/platform stylist for Harlem 125.

Latonya Cunnigham

I

t is a vision that most stylists share, to own and manage their very own salon. For many, it gives them independence and validates their existence in a profession that is forever changing. Tamica Fuller was fortunate to experience ownership when she opened Kotur Kutz Hair Salon nearly three years ago. All she had was a vision, and all she relied on was her faith in God and an unwillingness to be denied.

She had already accomplished a great deal. She had managed and worked in other owners establishments during her 17 years as a stylist. Still there was a feat and desire that she had to satisfy, and the answer was Kotur Kutz.

Amber Foster

By Terry L. Watson Photos by Howard Gaither

15

Bryan & Debra

Pierce

The new faces of Mount Zion Baptist Church

By Tonya Dixon Photos provided by Mount Zion Baptist Church

D

uring the month of March 2012, Pastor Bryan J. Pierce and Minister Debra A. Pierce accepted the leadership reigns and became installed as the new pastor and first lady of Mount Zion Baptist Church of Greensboro, Inc. Pastor Pierce serves as the senior pastor and chief executive officer, and First Lady Pierce works diligently in the service of the Lord with her husband. The Pierces’ are not new to Greensboro or the Mount Zion Baptist Church family. In 1996, they relocated to Greensboro and served the Mount Zion family faithfully for three years as the first full-time pastor of evangelism and arts and drama. The majority of the Pierces’ lives have always revolved around service and ministry. Pastor Pierce dedicated himself to the Lord at a very young age.

The New Orleans, LA native, was baptized at five-years-old, began preaching at the age of six, licensed at nine years old and ordained when he was 19.

His young ministry innocently began as he played with his schoolmates. He would quote scriptures and tell them about God. It wasn’t long before he was accepting invitations to speak at other churches throughout his hometown and traveling with his parents throughout Louisiana and Mississippi. It was an amazing sight to behold. Barely tall enough to peer over the pulpits and lecterns, he would deliver powerful 15 to 20 minutes sermons to awe-struck congregations, mesmerized by the sheer power of God revealed through such a young vessel. He was willing and excited to do whatever he understood

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God wanted him to do. He remained faithful to his local church assembly and continued to grow in God. He eventually joined the Greater Saint Stephens Full Gospel Baptist Church in Louisiana. There he was ordained

by Bishop Paul Morton, Sr. and subsequently served as the church’s youth pastor. First Lady Debra Pierce, also a licensed minister was raised in New York, in a Christian home and learned at a very early age to be a woman of God and walk in unity and love.

Pastor Pierce and First Lady Pierce bring a unique aspect and add a distinct prospective to the ministry at Mount Zion. They never interviewed, jockeyed or solicited for the positions they now humbly hold.

The couple always trusted God to make their path plain before them to walk into. God again showed himself faithful to the Pierces’ when they were asked to prayerfully consider returning home and serve God by serving the people. Pastor Pierce says it was as simple as the request presented to him and First Lady Pierce. Long time pastor of Mount Zion told Pierce, “God showed me you; please pray about it.”

“We’ve been commissioned to serve at the kingdom level. Our motive is to give people God and give them love”.

First Lady Debra Pierce

“It pays to be in a great place to serve and I know the reason why God has promoted us and elevated us was because we were always serving,” says Pastor Pierce. “We were never looking for anything. People found us, because we were always doing what we were supposed to be doing.

We have never had to put out any resumes or ask to fill any vacancies or promote ourselves. It has always been by the hand of God. I believe just like the Bible says. Your gift will make room for you and bring you before mighty men. That’s been the story of our lives and we are humbled that God would choose us.” The Pierces’ prayed and believed God was opening the door to their next kingdom assignment. It was the logical next step and the congregation had opened their arms and welcomed them back home as only a parent would do.

While there has been a leadership changing of the guard for Mount Zion, the mission and purpose has and will always remain the same.

Pastor Pierce insists there is still so much more to do at the church, but the agenda has not changed. He and First Lady Pierce are intent on preserving the legacy and compelling others to pursue destiny. Within the first quarter of their new community, their vision is already starting to come to fruition. Pastor Pierce says God told him the ministry must be about serving; not just serving the church but serving the community. His God-given slogan says, “He who serves the city, wins the city.” Pierce says he heard God speaking that to him while in prayer for the ministry. He took it to be just as literal as it sounds. “Mount Zion doesn’t want or need anything from the city except to serve the city. We have to get in to the community and get to the people that won’t come to where we are; we have to go to them.”

Pierce has already met with city officials and laid out his vision. The ministry will commit a set amount of man hours to assist throughout the community. Volunteers will operate as needed, wherever needed.

Many of the projects and opportunities to spread love within the community have already begun and emerged as great successes. The ministry recently had a gas and grocery giveaway. The response was overwhelming and greatly appreciated. The outreach ideas were never about gaining members or even a good name. It has always been about showing the love of Christ and to put into action the historical mission of Mount Zion; to reconcile the world to God through Jesus Christ.

“We’ve been commissioned to serve at the kingdom level. Our motive is to give people God and give them love. It’s not a campaign, membership drive or an attempt to get them in the church, as much as we would love for them to come here,” says First Lady Pierce. “It’s about making sure they feel the love of God and get them into the Kingdom.

We are here to help.”

Obviously, the Pierces’ have not come to change the Mount Zion mission or message, but the method must almost certainly change and evolve. The couple agreed the one thing the church must not do is become irrelevant and boring. People are surrounded by an overwhelming amount of outside influences that are vying for their time and attention from Facebook to Sunday night football. The premise is that the Word of God must become just as real to people as all of those

May/June 2013

other influences. Pastor Pierce says if people are online then the church must also be online. It’s all about breaking the massive aspects of ministry down into bit size pieces so that people can relate and digest it.

Often people can’t quite pin down the exact reason they are drawn to them. The fact is that the Pierces’ are so unpredictable yet very relatable. They refuse to be boxed into categories and bound by traditional schools of thought for a pastor and first lady.

They agree you may see them wearing t-shirts and jeans one Sunday and three piece suits and church hats the next. “You just can’t predict the Pierces’. You can’t lock us in or pin us down as modern, traditional or contemporary,” says First Lady Pierce. “Our God is unpredictable, so are we. We’ve got humor and the anointing. It’s freedom being led by God and open to the move of God. That’s why we connect to all generations.”

It’s that freedom that has compelled First Lady Pierce to write her own blog dealing with all aspects of being a first lady. It’s a sort of gumbo with humor, self-reflection, personal experiences and the Word of God. She is extremely transparent and gives herself permission to be her true self--flaws and all. The Pierces’ just have a heart for God and a heart for people. It has always been the driving force behind everything they have done and will continue to do.

Pastor Pierce puts it best, “it’s not about a religion, but about having a real relationship with God.” h

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Newport News, VA

Raneisa Gray Johnson

A Dominion Authority 18

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By Terry L. Watson Photos by Raneisa Gray-Johnson

he loves people and she loves helping people find solutions to their problems.

Raneisa Gray-Johnson of Newport News, Va. believes her purpose in life is to be a connection between people and resources. “The bible says that my people perish from their lack of knowledge. My goal is to be a resource to increase the knowledge of the people of God so they can walk victoriously in God’s plan for their lives,” she says.

At the age of 17, she married her first love. Before they made it out of the honeymoon phase of marriage, he was gone; killed in a car accident in just five months.

With him, died her trust in God and men. She was a new soldier in the United States Army, 300 miles away from any friends and family. “I wanted nothing to do with God or anyone who knew Him,” she says. During this time, she dealt with the loss of her husband the only way she knew how; by burying all of her feelings deep inside. She decided that if she never felt anything ever again, then she would never have to worry about being hurt again. Although that worked, it did nothing to fill the empty space in her heart that her husband once occupied. “I began to live recklessly and carelessly. It wasn’t until after my second child was born that I started to calm down and go back to church,” she says. Not fully connected she still blamed God for taking away her husband.

Eventually she came to a place where she was able to help other people with their problems which allowed her to take her mind off of her own. She masked her pain by throwing herself into the service of others hoping that she would never have to deal with herself. “For years, I never thought about my own happiness or deliverance. I felt I didn’t deserve it and I surely wasn’t worthy. I shied away from prophecies and any position or leadership because I didn’t want anyone to look up to me,” she says. It was easier for her to hold on to the pain and the hurt; too scary to let it go. If someone started to get too close to her, Johnson would sever the relationship, regardless of the capacity. No matter how far or how fast she ran, God caught her. He worked it out so that she could not run any longer. “God placed me in a ministry that accepted me for who I was and never tried to force me to be something I wasn’t ready to be or could even see myself be. They prayed me through my anger, my hurt and my fear. Through God, they have lovingly walked with me through my season of healing.

Johnson launched RAM Legacy, LLC in 2012. She had always been able to connect people with resources, and began to think of ways to use her God-given talents to help others. She began by hosting an empowerment seminar for women called “What Makes Me Beautiful”. This platform allowed participants an opportunity to discuss various topics including HIV awareness and prevention, suicide awareness, depression, healthy eating and much more. The turnout and the information was great, but she knew that there was more that she could and should be doing. “I knew that there had to be a way to reach more people. There has to be a ram in the bush for God’s people.

Out of that desire to reach more people, Dominion Authority Magazine was born.

Dominion Authority Magazine goal is to empower believers to walk in dominion in every area of their lives while also being a resource to encourage, educate, and empower all people by providing information and resources to broaden their understanding of the word via practical application. In other words, share the testimony of one person to encourage another. Johnson says she truly believes that knowledge and understanding is what will break the bonds and set the people of God free. The idea to start her business and magazine was birth almost 2 years before she actually started it. She came up with every excuse about why it would never work and why she was not qualified to do this. “I let my inner me tear me down way before the enemy had a chance,” she says. This was not the first business that she had started, but those did not prosper, mainly because she let fear have a larger voice than her faith. “I didn’t believe that I was good enough or worthy to talk to God’s people because of her past. I finally realized that my past is exactly what qualifies me to do this,” Johnson explains.

Her life has been most impacted by her children and pastors. “It is important to me that I am the role model that my children look up to, so everything that I do is done with the expectation that my children are watching me,” she says. “I don’t ever want them to be ashamed or embarrassed to call me mom”. She’s a member of a church family where the leaders lead by example. Even on difficult days and through frustrating times, she declares that her pastors exemplify what a genuine relationship with God looks like.

It’s not about being perfect, crossing all t’s and dotting all i’s, but continuing to trust and relying on God through every circumstance, and recognizing that without Him, nothing is possible. “They have taught me that God is love, and His love for us never fails and comes without condemnation. They have helped me to understand that it is ok to be who I am, and to walk boldly in my calling,” she says. “Every day I find myself seeking God more and more; drawing closer to Him. I may never understand why my husband had to die, but I understand that even though he died, God was there to carry me through it all. Even when I didn’t want to be kept, He kept me.” h

Raneisa launched her magazine, Dominion Authority Magazine in 2012. www.dominionauthoritymagazine.com

Polly wants a cracker

Conquering Your Inner Foodie

WWW.DOMINIONAUTHORITYMAGAZINE.COM

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Lei Lei’s

Cuisine 20

By Tonya Dixon Photos by Still Shots Photography

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eisha Patterson’s red velvet cakes taste like no other; or so she has been told. Her take on the classic dessert sells out every day.

People have been known to purchase three to four slices at a time. Red velvet cake is not the only delicacy that Patterson has perfected. She has become quite the connoisseur of all desserts, baked goods and even full course meals. Leisha Patterson, or Lei Lei as she’s known to most people, is the founder, owner, director, head chef, operator and practically everything else of Lei Lei’s Cuisine.

During the 2001 Christmas season, the Winston-Salem native randomly decided to cook a big family dinner. Her endeavor was a huge success, so great in fact, that it compelled her husband (then fiancé), Timothy Patterson to gift her with a personalized apron emblazoned with the phrase, “Lei Lei’s Cuisine”. The gift was almost

“When I get in my zone of baking I get a certain peace in my spirit. I listen to my gospel music while baking and it helps with the love and care that I put into each cake, cupcake, cookie, cake pop and everything else that I make”.

Lei Lei’s Cuisine offers various baked goods including cakes for birthdays, weddings, and celebrations. Their menu also includes cupcakes and lollipop cakes.

certainly meant to be a loving, complimentary gift, but resulted in being the symbolic main ingredient, which over the course of four years, combined with a generous dollop of prayer, a pinch of sincere thought, an ounce of consideration, pages of recipe ideas, dozens of cracked eggs, and countless perfecting taste testes to create Lei Lei’s Cuisine.

Within no time, the business exploded. “Although that apron is very well used, I still have it,” Patterson laughs. “Fast forward to 2005, I became interested in providing culinary services and when my husband suggested that I sell some of my desserts, 40 cakes later in a month’s time Lei Le’s Cuisine was created.”

Lei Lei’s Cuisine is overwhelmingly known for all things dessert and baked goods related, but is notably just as adept for providing exceptional services for ALL culinary needs. From start to finish Lei Lei’s Cuisine can handle everything from the wedding cakes and dessert buffet bars to invitations, matching paper products and unique dessert displays. Patterson and her crew deliver, setup and will even stick around and assist with service to lessen the burden on the host.

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Continued from page 27 For Patterson, the experience of making the food and pleasing the clients are equally as important as the actual presentation of the food. “When I get in my zone of baking I get a certain peace in my spirit. I listen to my gospel music while baking and it helps with the love and care that I put into each cake, cupcake, cookie, cake pop and everything else that I make,” says Patterson. “I have a history of tossing desserts or foods out if it does not meet my expectation. I want it to taste amazing as well as look eye appealing. I have come through many trials and tribulations by getting in my zone and working everything out in my head through baking. I guess you could say it’s very therapeutic for me spiritually and to the customer it’s like a bite of heaven.”

Although she is a registered nurse by trade, Patterson spends a lot of her free time surfing the internet and watching various television programs finding recipes. She has become an expert at deciphering and duplicating ingredients in dishes and adding her own special touches giving them the unique Patterson seal of approval. She is absolutely self-taught, so she has no fear of trying different things and makes it a point to listen to what her customers are saying and what they want. Her husband and eldest son, Teddy, have even gotten in on the fun. While they all enjoy getting their hands dirty in the kitchen, her husband has been the business guru behind the scenes and has a great visual eye and secretly her son can make the coveted red velvet cake as well as her and makes his own Rollo brownie that is also a customer favorite.

Pictured above is the team of Lei Lei’s Cuisine. From left to right: Teddy, Tp, Tim and Lesha. They are currently expecting twins.

Lei Lei’s Cuisine has garnered a hard core following who fawn over basically all of Patterson’s desserts, but especially her signature red velvet and Italian cream cake. Those two flavors alone have increased her business by huge margins.

Patrons can purchase Lei Lei’s Cuisine sweets in Winston Salem inside the Popcorn Fanatic, where Patterson leases a small area. Additionally, Patterson has a fantastic website that covers everything about her business and customers can conveniently place online orders. However, she hasn’t stopped there, Patterson has teamed up with the Wedding Galleria by Bella in Greensboro; there she is able to display her creations and customers can obtain more information.

The food is obviously very important to Patterson, but she is also just as inspired and interested in building up the surrounding community. She takes every opportunity possible to give back through her business and good food is something everyone can appreciate and rally around. She was recently involved in a charity event last fall called, The Bridesmaids Ball, which raised money for lymphoma; she plans to participate again this year. Additionally, she regularly donates cakes and desserts. Amazingly, she says she usually receives two to three additional orders from each donation.

Patterson believes Lei Lei’s Cuisine will continue to grow beyond her wildest dreams. As a matter of fact she dreams big and is absolutely confident they will come to pass. “I have been praying bold prayers that one day soon I will be able to run Lei Lei’s Cuisine full-time,” she says. “I really want my own storefront, with my own space to do the things that I know I am capable of doing and turning Lei Lei’s Cuisine into a multi-location business that’s very profitable and will help other’s along the way.” In the meantime, Patterson will simply continue to serve up the delicious delicacies that customers can’t seem to get their full. h

Lei Lei’s Cuisine (336)794-6511 www.leileiscuisine.com

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inspire

Lady Shae’s Hair Salon

dream 1025 Homeland Avenue Greensboro, NC 27405 336-333-3222 wwww.ladyshaes.com

Dream Big

SetTakeGoals Action

BRIGHT GLOSSY BOVANTI C O S M E T I C S

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By Beauty Experts Marquel & Marquis Bohannon

S P A

Bovanti Cosmetics & Spa 219 Four Seasons Town Center Greensboro, NC 27407

Facebook.com/bovanticosmetics Twitter @bovanti Phone: 336.299.0109 bovanticosmetics.com

This season is about cranking up the volume with bold bright lips. We love to Show off our Bright, glossy lips during the summer. Here are five hot tips to get your pretty kisser primed and ready to glow!

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Stop glosses from drifting past your natural lip line

Everyone I’m sure has experienced the glosses that smear above and below your natural lip line. It seems like the glossier your lips are the more the gloss tends to gravitate elsewhere. It is now time to stop glosses from doing their own thing and take control! To stop the glosses from migrating use a neutral lip liner that is closest to the bright gloss you have chose. Choose a neutral color like Bovanti’s Mocha Mauve Lip Liner to give the softest less noticeable lip line.

Protect your pucker by adding SPF! To prevent your lips from aging and the harmful rays of the sun, try Bovanti Vitamin C Lip Treatment with SPF 15. This will give your pout that added moisture and protection you have been wanting. In addition, try prepping your lips for added color layer with our SPF lip treatment. It’s a non-sticky balm that stays put all day long and even adds a little color.

Add your Boldest Lip Color First, turn up the color by lining and filling in your lips with a lip pencil in a coordinating shade. Next, apply the color on top of the liner, beginning at the center of each lip and feathering out. This technique allows your bold color like Bovanti’s Magenta Pop Matte Lip Stick to stay put and gives you bright bold lips!

I T N A V O B E T I C S C O S M

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S P A

es and Techniqu s ip T p u e k a lass Learn More M ly Makeup C at our Month May 18th !

Sign Up NOW to 9 0 1 .0 9 9 Call 336.2 May/June 2013

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Bright Glossy Lips

5

Dot of Shimmery Shadow

We all love glosses that have color, Right? Bovanti has the perfect gloss to add to your pout like Bovanti’s Vivid Energy Luxury Lip Gloss. This gloss is full of energy and can make your lips pop and shine. With its infused Argan oil, it fully moisturizes your lips and gets them ready for kissing.

Give dimension to your bright, glossy lip look by dotting a spot of a shimmery golden eye shadow like Bovanti’s Butterscotch Pigment Shadow in the center of your bottom lip with a finger. The concentrated shimmer acts like a spotlight shining on your lips.

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& Cosmetologist The Professional

Barber

Business Forum

There are those times in life that a little guidance can go a long way. So why should hair and body care be any different? For this very purpose, we have compiled a list of some of the most reputable salon/barber venues, which are sure to cater to your uniquely specific needs. For certain, this will prove to be a task that you can promptly mark off your to-do list!

MASTERMINDS DESIGN STUDIO: Unparalleled Excellence 309 W. Lee Street, Suite A, Greensboro, NC 27265 336.370.0791

If excellent service is what you expect, try visiting Masterminds Design Studio. Boasting decades of hair care experience, Sherelle Wofford and her staff professionals are sure to make your salon experience exceed your expectations. Coupled with a relaxed atmosphere and choice music, Masterminds Design Studio also offers complimentary wifi access and other regale amenities including wine, Keurig teas, and coffee.

Contact Masterminds Design Studio and allow Sherelle & her staff to earn your business.

SHARPER IMAGE HAIR STUDIO: Multi-Cultural Services 4401 W. Wendover Avenue, Suite 107, Greensboro, N.C. 27407

336-854-1148

If getting the full multi-cultural experience tops your must-haves, then Sharper Image Hair Studio is the place for you! Sharper Image Hair Studio specializes in multi-cultural barber & hair styling services. From kinky-curly to straight and limp, no hair texture is too complex for Sharper Image Hair Studio staff to tame. Backed by the extensive experience of Ramon Mason and his talented staff, Sharper Image Hair Studio features professional brands from Influence Hair Care and Nu Expressions to Paul Mitchell and Nairobi. Apart from such care brands, Sharper Image Hair Studio also maintains high standards providing unlimited services in the cosmetic field including waxing, makeup artistry, and beyond. If these standards line up with your own then look no further, Sharper Image Hair Studio is ready to schedule you in.

PROSPERITY STYLES SALON: Healthy Hair & Holistic 2416 A High Point Road, Greensboro, N.C. 27403 336.851.0012 Searching for a distinct venue that will also cater to your mind, body and soul? Then be sure to seek out the specialized talents of Prosperity Styles Salon. Implementing a warm and welcoming atmosphere, the goal of their accomplished staff is to revitalize you both mentally and physically, ensuring that all clients are satisfied from the moment they enter the doors. Prosperity Styles Salon specializes in healthy hair and consistently cultivates their craft through education in keeping with the latest hair trends. So the next time you are ready to escape your daily routine, set a visit with Prosperity Styles Salon and experience an ultimate holistic experience.

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HEADS UP BARBER & BEAUTY: Unbiased Barber, Salon and Legal Services 2801 Pinecroft Road, Greensboro, NC 27407 336.299.6238 Some of us require a little more than others. Whenever legal matters arise, looking our best can nearly conflict with taking care of the legal issues in life. This is when you require the unbiased barber, salon, and legal services of Heads Up Barber & Beauty. They offer a professional atmosphere with unmatched hair cutting & hair care skills, as well as legal service. This group of individuals represents being a highly trained barber/salon professional and ethically sound legal entity that are confident and will exceed your every expectation. Their concepts for success are based on understanding their client’s needs while fulfilling and exceeding their overall expectations. Contact Heads Up Barber & Beauty and get the most for your professional needs.

KOTUR KUTZ: Professional & Catering to Family 1042 Westside Drive, Greensboro, NC 27405

336.412.5959

Don’t have time to search high & low to cater to every member of your family? Then look no further! Allow Tamica Fuller & her team member professionals to address your family’s salon needs. Kotur Kutz ensures a welcoming atmosphere for the entire family. And concerning interacting with the least to the most, Tamica and her team maintain the highest in standards for a family setting that is peaceful, pleasant and, most certainly, professional. Find out how Tamica and her staff can best meet your and your family’s salon care needs.

PERFECTIONS, INC.: Signature Services, Diverse Quality 4719 High Point Road, Suite F, Greensboro, N.C. 27407 336.851.0045 Unique lounge setting, upscale, family-friendly, diverse quality… Looking for a unique place that will set your barber, salon, and refining needs apart from the rest, then Perfections, Inc. is sure to be your match. Anchored by Clyde Brown and his talented barber and styling professionals, they are committed to delivering diverse quality designed to cater to every client who comes through their doors. Providing signature services such as their men’s hot towel shave, women’s silk wrap, and indulging massages, to name a few, Perfections, Inc. yet extends beyond in creating a relaxed lounge setting aimed at strengthening the well-being of your body and mind. Relish in quality every time with the Perfections, Inc. difference.

NEXT LEVEL BARBER SHOP: Appointment-Only, Private 1025 Homeland Avenue, Greensboro, NC 27405 336.707.7440 E-mail: Tufcut@gmail.com If you believe in one-on-one, personal attention and enjoy a private setting, then perhaps Next Level Barber Shop is your place. Yolanda Smith and business partner, Saeed Newkirk, have made it their mission as master barbers to provide top-notch, one-on-one “personal barber” services to their clientele. In addition to providing services such as fades, tapers, eyebrow arching and a variety of hair care products, they also offer complimentary razor work on edge ups and temporary color. Talk about service! And no need to stress about time, Next Level Barber Shop is an appointment-only venue that values your time as much as you do. Promising to make your experience reach “The Next Level”, consider the unique services of Yolanda Smith and Saeed Newkirk by contacting them today.

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Living Healthy Getting Fit in 2013 with EM Creative Fitness Two years ago, Motley was almost 100 lbs. heavier and started out with zumba and fell in love with it. Zumba is a Latin inspired dance fitness program that everyone can do that keeps the body moving. “With zumba, you are dancing and everyone is trying to get the steps so it makes it a comfortable environment because nobody has time to watch you”, says Motley. “They are focusing on their steps and trying to get their work out on.”

To some exercise is a routine of cardio and to others its strength training, but to Erica Motley it’s so much more. Exercise relieves so much stress, not just for the body but the mind and soul as well. The more active a person is the better they feel about their selves. Exercise can help people maintain a healthy weight and live a better life. Some of the great health benefits of exercising helps with delaying or preventing diabetes, some cancers and heart problems.

Most people think when they hear “exercise” they have to automatically run and join a gym or spend money that they may or may not have. However, working out does not require people to spend too much money.

For examples, people can start walking in their neighborhoods, dancing, swimming for recreation or bicycling. In addition, stretching exercises such as yoga and weight training can also strengthen the body and improve one’s fitness level and immune system.

someone has been inactive for a while, they can use a sensible approach and start off slowly— walking, swimming or zumba are just a few great ways to start moving.

EM Creative Fitness offers the first class free to anyone willing to join the fitness program.

Motley says, she was once that person who tried and now with her effort and strong will she is down from a 28/26 to a 16/18. In her program, the company has a10 lbs. a month challenge and focuses more on the inner person that provides nutritional tips, private workout sessions, and buddy workouts. h

The key is to find the right exercise program that is fun and also rewarding to keep a person motivated for their goals. Most trainers suggest working out with a friend or group to help maintain commitment. In addition, if

Connect with EM Creative Fitness @ Call (336) 554-4014 FaceBook.com/emcreativefitness Schedules and events also on Meetup.com/emcreativefitness

Huami Magazine Business Forum on Facebook Member Spotlight

Ange’le’s Floral Designs and Event Planning

Angele N Simpson Making that Day A Dream...With Your Vision in Mind! 10 years of Services Ange’le’s Floral Designs is focused on providing high-quality service and customer satisfaction - we will do everything we can to meet your expectations.

We specialize in enhancing and designing your holiday and everyday decor. We design that special day of every couple’s life by providing floral and design services. Let us build your Dream.

Serving the Communites with over 10 years of experience.

(336) 255-2240

Member Spotlight

www.angelensimpson.vpweb.com

DualVision Inc. www.dualvisioninc.com

We are experienced in tax preparation, IRS problem resolution, estates/trust, business formation, financial planning and investment real estate.

Their encompass nearly every aspect of financial life. They are experienced in tax preparation and taxation, IRS problem resolution, estates and trusts, business formation, financial planning and investment, real estate and business sales.

They now have their Health Insurance certification to better serve their growing number of clients. Be sure to call and schedule an appointment about your health insurance questions and concerns.

336.229.5545 info@dualvisioninc.com

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Fine Dining Environment for a Low Price

Lunch

Friday & Saturday 11:30am till 2:30pm

Dinner

Friday & Saturday 5:30pm till 10:00pm

All You Can Eat Buffet $12.00

Sundays

12:00pm till 6:00pm ToGo box available for additional charge

Baby Showers, Bridal Showers, Corporate Events, Family Reunions, Receptions, Fundraising Galas, Rehearsal Dinners, Weddings, and much more!

Linease Washington - Event Planner

(336)298-6885

www.acreamaffair.com

Available for All Occasions

RON

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Ms. Black Triad USA LaVonne D. Rosbor

By Terry L. Watson Photos by Mykel Media Company

L

aVonne D. Rosbor is a first generation college graduate, seasoned professional who loves Christ, children and the Dallas Cowboys. A native North Carolinian, she was raised in Greensboro, N.C. and is the daughter of Mr. William and Diana Rochelle.

She is a graduate of Walter H. Page High School and proud parent of Tyler J. Rosbor, who is an athlete, honor student at Page High School and chief executive officer of I AM Legacy, an African American male youth mentoring organization. The 14 young men selected have at least a 3.0 G.P.A. and are active in their school, church and communities, and will make a lifetime commitment to becoming a legacy. Their primary mission is to “take back their communities one male at a time”.

She says she never considered herself beautiful. The spiritual thought of a beautiful and successful woman reaching out, sharing her story and experience, Rosbor says was enough for her to enter the competition for Ms. Black Triad USA. “Many people are unaware like myself that millions are suffering with depression deep within but smiling on the outside. Every moment of my life, that I am complete, and every hour of every that I am healthy and happy, is a gift from God,” she says.

There are many things Rosbor has been blessed to accomplish. Most importantly she acknowledges becoming a woman of God. She has earned two master degrees, a bachelor, and specialist degree; all focused around education and is an active member of the High Point Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. She also started a city-wide summer reading program in the city of High Point of which students read over 5,000 books online. Rosbor says the real crown is the opportunity to advocate for the youth, her community, and outside of her career.

With 20 years of experience within the field of education, she has noticed parental involvement has steadily declined and youth becoming deeply disconnected from their culture and communities. “The school system alone can no longer be responsible for raising and grooming our children. We must take back

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our kids and our community,” she says.

As Ms. Black Triad USA, Rosbor says she plans to advocate and bring awareness to “I AM Legacy” everywhere. She is currently completing her dissertation and has set a personal goal for degree number five at Cambridge College of Cambridge Massachusetts. When it is all said and done, she hopes to have realized all of her dreams. This includes becoming a college or university chancellor or provost. She also plans to publish a few articles and write a book for youth and parents. “Simply, I want to enjoy life every day as a testimony and promote her son’s organization “I AM Legacy” as a motivational speaker. “My life must have meaning, value and purpose,” she says. h

For more information about I Am Legacy, please visit www.iamlegacygroup.com

Want To Advertise? Call (336)340-7844

Personal Shopper Designer Ladies Shoes

336-402-2858

1.888.631.4666

SWEET Skin is our Business!

We are available online 24/7 to accommodate all of your fashion needs.

Gifted Baskets Boxes & Bags Custom Gift Baskets, Handbags & Accessories

“Where Giving Is Special”

IMagine ME!

Accessories Boutique & Consulting Services

www.imaginemeboutique.com

Jewelry for every occasion and any look “Always be a 1st rate version of yourself and not a 2nd rate version of someone else!” ~Judy Garland (336)257-9646

Need a F.A.B.ulous custom gift made for you to give to someone special?

Give a Gift Basket, Gift Box or Gift Bag!! www.giftedbasketsboxesbags.com

336-317-3663

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I Am Just

Shayla

By Terry L. Watson Photos by Still Shots Photography

S

he’s a woman that’s big on talent but not on titles. Life itself means a whole lot more to the spunky and extremely gifted southern girl from Hickory, N.C. She holds two degrees, one in Theatre and the other in Elementary Education, but Shayla Thompson’s passion is acting and everything it has to offer. Her love is teaching and as a science teacher and Magnet School coordinator she utilizes her animation and acting skills to assist with keeping her students engaged.

Thompson is the daughter of Laletha and Douglas Thompson and was molded in the church where she was disciplined to perform.

Her acting journey began at the Tammy Lunsford School of Dance. She then attended the Hickory Performing Arts Center where she later teamed up with Synil Lee, the lead from the production “A Good Man is Hard to Find”. She showed her the ins and outs of theatre and took Thompson on the road with the show. Touring while in high school taught her a lot as she soaked up the business aspect of theatre as well as performing. Thompson wrote and directed her own shows to pay for her first two years of college. Her mentor Claudia Teague helped to produce her shows and guide her on her mini touring adventures with a cast of 70 kids.

She chose theatre because that’s what she knew best and figured out how to change lives and make people happy with her entertaining gifts. “I love being able to change lives through theatre. I love creating memorable moments for others,” she says.

After seeing The Black Nativity at North Carolina A&T State University as a high school student, she decided that’s where she

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Whatever is in

God’s Plan works for me

belonged. “Under the leadership and teaching of Miller Lucky, Frankie Day, and Donna Bradby was life changing. They poured into and showed me what is required to be a well rounded actress, an Aggie Actress,” she emphatically says. Since then she has worked with musical director Ricky Minor on the set of the first annual Bet Music Awards. Another great achievement was getting nominated for a Regional Emmy after starring in promo commercials for TV-64/ WSOC TV in Charlotte. She has also directed and produced several productions in Hickory and Greensboro including Lights out Lights out y2k Soul Sistas, Langston Hughes Black Nativity, The Journey (created & directed) and Journey 2, Fulfilled Prophecy, and The Blood.

In addition to thanking her parents and sister Crystal, she also acknowledges those who have supported and poured into to her life and career. This includes her grandmother Hattie Adams for touring with her as a minor, Bishop Brooks and Pastor Bryan Pierce of Mt. Zion Baptist Church of Greensboro, who has provided her with a venue to just share her gifts and talents as the artistic director in the arts and drama department. She also thanks First Lady Edna Brooks, First Lady Debra Pierce, Pastor Deon Clark, Andre Brinson, Pastor Gralin Bryant, Keva Brooks Napper, Diatra Langford, Dominique Wharton and many others.

In the future Thompson says she hopes to own a production company. “My goal is to have a road manager booking shows and scheduling performances that I will be in or directing. I want to be the next Tyler Perry, the next Oprah, the next Steven Spielberg, the next Spike Lee, the next trail blazer, blazing the trail for other African Americans who have a passion for the arts,” she says. h

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Cutest Baby

Images provided by TMFPhotography

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Photo Contest Jayden Allen-Michael Fuller Son of Dr. Tiffany M. Fuller

To enter your child’s picture into the Huami Magazine Cutest Baby Photo Contest please send a e-mail to mykelmedia@yahoo.com

Serving All of God’s Children Information provided by Tamara Chatman Greensboro Chapter Director/President www.newbornsinneed.org/greensoro

N

ewborns In Need (NIN) is a special family of volunteers bound by a mission to help the most vulnerable in our society: sick and needy babies. Founded in 1992, thier goal is to respond to the needs of premature and/or newborn babies that are sick, abused, in crisis, or have died. NIN became a registered non-profit 501(c) 3 charity in 1998. Mother Theresa is quoted as saying, “If you can’t feed 100 people, then feed just one.” Surrounded by wide-spread hunger and poverty, she focused on each soul, not the sheer size of the problem. NIN volunteers work under a similar guiding spirit.

As of 2013, NIN has over 60 chapters in the U.S. and has added a diaper bank initiative. NIN is an incorporated entity with chartered chapters throughout the U.S. The goal of NIN is to help as many babies as possible through the growth and training of new volunteer chapters, which provide care necessities to agencies and hospitals free of charge throughout the U.S. NIN functions under the principles of love and acceptance to help those in need. For this reason, the organization’s fundamental, guiding belief is: One Heart, One Mission, Serving All of God’s Children.

Who We Are & What We Do

We are a 501(C) 3 Non Profit Charity We provide customized clothing and items for premature babies We provide essential baby items for the economically disadvantaged We provide bereavement burial layettes for infant and fetal demise

“We are always looking for individuals to volunteer”

The NIN National Office is located in Pfafftown, North Carolina. The governing arm of NIN is the National Board of Directors. No individual or chapter financially benefits from any donations received. NIN does not provide financial assistance to any person or agency, but may provide published information to needy families concerning newborn care. NIN does not typically make donations directly to families or individuals. Most donations go through an agency and/or approved organizations.

The Greensboro Chapter is considered an Essential Chapter. An Essentials Chapter provides basic items for the newborn. The Greensboro Chapter also focuses on fund-raising initiatives to raise money to purchase needed baby items for newborns. Some of the items, such as those for the bath, are donated while others can be donated or handcrafted by NIN volunteers, such as baby booties and hats. Essential items are basically any item needed by a newborn including, but not limited to clothing, blankets/afghans, bath items, infant thermometers, comfort toys, diapers, safe sleep furniture, bottles, etc. Due to liability concerns, NIN does not accept used car seats or cribs. h

Tamara Chapman, Chapter Director Newborns In Need, Inc. - Greensboro Chapter Director PO Box 702 - Colfax, NC 27235 919-225-5619 greensboro@newbornsinneed.org www.newbornsinneed.org/greensboro

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WINSTON SALEM

Dana Suggs

Body and Soul 44

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By Terry L. Watson Photos by Mykel Media Company

L

ocated in the Arts District of downtown Winston Salem, Body and Soul is four Afrocentric stores in one, paying tribute to the beautiful culture of African-Americans. The first part is a boutique that offers jewelry from around the world including Fashion, Scarves and Bags, Greeting Cards, and a listening station for Putumayo’s World Music.

The second part houses a book room that has all the latest, current and popular books in a variety of categories, primarily by African-American authors.

The third part provides popular skin care Aromatherapy. According to co-owner Dana Suggs, this is where the action begins. Body and Soul is the largest seller of the entire Nubian Heritage Skin care line. They offer 13 flavors available in soap, lotion, body wash and hand cream. In addition to hair care products, they also sell incense, fragrance oils, and burners. The fourth and final part is their Gallery where unique offerings are available from different parts of Africa. On display are masks, furniture, paintings, home furnishings, and a few items inspired by the continent. The Gallery also sells African American Tapestries that are beautifully woven works of art and proudly made by American Craftsmen.

Coming from a larger city, Suggs had access to ethnic products that she considered important to her lifestyle and well being. These included Shea Butter products, literature, jewelry, home furnishings, and more. “These products were not readily available at major retailers and smaller stores.

However, to get them I would have to wait for special events like HBCU homecomings, the CIAA tournament, and the Black Theater festival where vendors would come with these “specialty” items. I knew there had to be others like me that wanted these products available on a regular basis and not just at special events,” she says.

Suggs says her father walked with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. during the March on Washington, and her mother’s parents were behind Marcus Garvey’s Black Star Line. Growing up, her entire house was completely decorated in African-American décor. Her father was a designer and artist and only featured African & African-American art work on their colorful painted walls. Her father is currently the curator of their Gallery’s history.

He also designed the layout of Body and Soul and selected the wall colors.

Her mother, an educator who also loves making jewelry and fine things, is a heavy reader of African-American authors and others. “My parents truly instilled in me a sense of pride, dignity and respect for our people and that those qualities should be shared with others,” Suggs says.

“Body and Soul is simply an extension of how I was raised with having parents that were very proud of their African American history and Culture. God inspires me to be better, do better, and share love and give joy. He makes it all possible. This is God’s plan for my life and others,” Suggs says. She describes herself as a proud African American woman who thinks very highly of her history, her culture, her people and herself.

Co-owner and husband Michael says she is an intelligent business woman that truly believes in the products that she sells and knows the importance of customer service.

This year, Body and Soul celebrates 10 years of being in business. They have established a credible reputation for providing their customers with quality products at a good value. However, in order to do so Suggs says she has learned that a smart girl has to not only have a plan A, but a backup plan B and plan C. Staffing at times can be challenging as it is extremely important to find the right fit for the store and their diverse customer base. h

Body and Soul www.bodyandsoulnc.com 545 N Trade Street - Suite 1H Winston Salem, NC 27101

(336) 723-SOUL (7685)

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