Special Edition 2023
Fashion | Beauty | Lifestyle | Food | Finance | Fitness
7 Retirement Real Estate Investment FAQ’s
Beard Game
Putting on your protection gear for the season
Chef Jernard and Keena Wells
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POWER COUPLE JERNARD & KEENA WELLS TAKE ON THE 4 F’S: FAITH,FAMILY, FOOD AND FUN
Wanderlove: Marquise And Desiree Burns are a “SERENDIPITOUS” force to be reckoned with
CONTENT
InSight Magazine
INSIGHT Magazine 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 savvy and serene lifestyle for all.
Editor -In-Chief Curtis Lawrence Sr.
Food Editor Chef Monica
Financial Director Shelton Brown Hair & Makeup Jozette Cooper Photography Team Marlon Griffith Curtis Lawrence Sr. Cato Pinckney Creative Writers Kamaya Tarpley Chef Monica Jozette Cooper Lesley Logan Devona Keel
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MEET VISIONARY ARNITA CHAMPION, GAME CHANGER IN WELLNESS & BEYOND
BEARD GAME
AFTER YOU SAY I DO: READERS ADVICE FOR STAYING IN LOVE.
Arnita stands by 4 key F’s: Faith, Fitness, Food, and Fashion
Putting on your protection gear for the Winter Season
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FOOD RECIPES by Chef Monica
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INSIGHTS TOP ROMANTIC COUPLES GETAWAY FOR SEASONS
Social Media Content Director Curtis A. Lawrence Jr. Lakia Cooper-Staton INSIGHT Magazine Letters to the Editor: 3340 Robinwood Road STE. 100-517 Gastonia, NC 28054 Attn: Curtis Lawrence www.theinsightmag.com contact@theinsightmag.com
Insight Magazine
BMHS 10
Special Edition / 2023
Meet the Mastermind behind the Styled by Linwood brand
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REAL ESTATE INVESTING 7 Retirement Real Estate Investing FAQs by Shelton & Tiffany Brown
COUPLES Wanderlove: Marquise And Desiree Burns are a “SERENDIPITOUS” force to be reckoned with
GIFT GIVING INSIGHT MAGAZINE 2023 ULTIMATE GIFTING GUIDE
PASTORAL INSIGHT Going Beyond the Bricks: Get to Know Bishop Vance & Lady Oldes
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Special Edition / 2023 / Volume 4
Insight Magazine
Letter from the Publisher
ARCHIVE PUBLICATIONS
Fashion | Beauty | Lifestyle | Food | Finance | Fitness
April 2021
Bourbon Blow Cocktail
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Tantilizing your Taste Buds With Sultry Spirits
Harvesting Habits Managing the Fruits of Your Labor
FRUITY BENEFITS FOR NAP’TURAL HAIR
EXCLUSIVE
Maria
Howell
The Songstress, the Actress, the Advocate, the Artist Maria Tells How She Went from The Color Purple to Glistening Gold.
Winter Issue
Fashion | Beauty | Lifestyle | Food | Finance | Fitness
Tilted Cocktail Chef Monica Levels-up your New Year beverage recipes
Taking your beard to the next level
Curtis Lawrence
As a business owner, there’s nothing better than having a partner who has your back when things get challenging, and is able to join you in celebrating victories when things are going great.
Cocoa
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Celebrity Chef Jernard Wells and wife/fellow foodie Keena Wells Marquise and Desiree Burns, Love Story, Lifestyle and Travel
The experience can be even more special when a business partner is also your life partner.
Don’t forget the fitness spotlight featuring Arnita Champion, and our favorite celeb wardrobe stylist Leslie Linwood.
In this issue, we’ll take a closer look at some “Power Couples,” including how they run their business and balance work and home life. These husbandwife duos share the ups and downs of working and living together. Is it double the fun or too much of a good thing?
If you’re reading the electronic version or on social media, you can learn a few more details of the people we’re profiling such as @beachamp_ifbbpro to learn more about Arnita and @stylingwithlinwood to get the skinny on Leslie.
Our salute to Power Couples this issue includes dual profiles of:
Be sure to grab a cup of coffee and your snuggle blanket, because you won’t want to miss anything in this issue. Make sure to follow us on social media @_insightmagazine.
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Bishop Vance Oldes and Nicole Oldes from Liberty House International Ministries
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Beard Game
Brown Exclusive interview with Comedian/ Actress
Fashion Stylist & Designer T Shanell
Fall Issue 2022
Level Up Your Finances
Fashion | Beauty | Lifestyle | Food | Finance | Fitness
Geoff Duran Geoff Duran Luxury Menswear Made to Fit
Design My Investment
Atlanta’s Hottest Interior Designers
Beard Game
Taking your beard game to the next level
Ceelo Green Talks New Music Journey and More
Special Edition / 2023 / Volume 4
MEET VISIONARY ARNITA CHAMPION, GAME CHANGER IN WELLNESS & BEYOND Arnita stands by 4 key F’s: Faith, Fitness, Food, and Fashion By Lesley Logan Photo credit : Michael Roud Photography
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When Maya Angelou created the poem “ Phenomenal Woman” one of those women best describes Arnita Champion who has changed the barriers for women in wellness and in the philanthropy space. Becoming a fitness expert and motivational speaker came naturally to Arnita Champion. She has dedicated her life to showcasing her levels of fitness while helping others reach theirs. The key to her success is her love for the act in itself. She has found a passion in using her body to the best of its ability. It was up to her to turn her hobby into a thriving business and that’s exactly what she’s done. The Janet Jackson doppelganger happily shares her fitness services with a wide variety of people no matter if you are a man or a woman. If you are looking for inspiration, look no further than a true Champion of her field. Arnita grew up in the wooded east coast city of Norfolk, Virginia. Her first experience with embracing the athlete within was when she won a race in kindergarten. That moment changed the trajectory of her life and a surprising new love was born. As the years progressed, she channeled her ability to run from her bullies into running towards a winning ribbon. Arnita was awarded a full scholarship for her athleticism for Texas Southern University. From 1984-1992, she was listed as a finalist for the 100-meter hurdles for the Olympic trials. Unfortunately, she suffered an injury prior to attending but ever the optimist, she used the shortcoming to shift her sights in another direction. This is where the notion to become a personal trainer was manifested. Champion earned a certification in personal training and made it her personal mission to provide mental
and physical health to all of her clients. While training, a challenge that has remained consistent is remembering to workout within your limits. As a trainer, she eagerly anticipates providing new moves but one to always put her client first, she only gives instructions that will keep them both safe. This empowers all parties because at the end of the day, she knows that she has one body and any decisions are up to her. Arnita remains in control of her life, body, and destiny. The pandemic affected her business positively as she was encouraged to create a larger reach. She finds that accountability is more attainable when you commit to zoom meetings, facetime, and social media. Speaking of, Champion is looking forward to revamping her website so that it focuses on her 4 key F’s: Faith, Fitness, Food, and Fashion. The expenditure on social media has helped in that audiences are comfortable with sharing what they would like to see from the fitness guru. In the upcoming future, she is looking forward to retiring from her current position as a faculty counselor and trying her hand at acting as well as modeling.
Alexander Evans MD, MBA FACS, Current title: Trauma Medical Director, Central Florida Regional Associate Professor of Surgery, University of South Florida
BEARD GAME Putting on your protection gear for the Winter Season by Jozette Cooper Your beard protects your skin from the follicles will close up in order to prevent your elements all year round. Depending on where body from absorbing more cold air than the Making your beard ready for the changing you live. Exposure to the wind and the snow, body needs. This can cause the hair growth to weather can be as simple as changing your your beard protects your skin from drying out, slow down and look dull. Because of the cold beard routine. chapping, being irritated and brittle. If the tem- temperatures the decreasing flow of blood in peratures get low enough, your skin and hair the beard area.
2. Try co-washing instead of your normal washing routine. Co-washing means you don’t use shampoo at all. Instead wash your facial hair with a beard conditioner. The conditioner has a small amount of detergent, so it will not strip the natural sebum oils from your beard. Meaning the glycerin, carrier oils and buttery fats formulated in the conditioner will help soften and nourish the beard while keeping your skin moist.
3. Hydration: One of the most important things you can do for the summer and the winter is keeping your skin and facial hair hydrated. Increasing your water intake will help in preventing your skin and facial hair from drying out. Drinking that extra glass or glasses of water will help moisturize your beard, skin and body. Adding a humidifier can add moisture back into your home or office, or where ever your heat is blasting. This keeps your body and beard healthier.
4. Remember brushing your beard keeps its clean, it distributes the beard oil evenly into your beard, keeps it tidy and in good form. It stimulates healthy beard growth.
5. 1. Using cool or warm water on your face or while taking showers. Hot water can strip your natural oils from your hair and skin. It is best to use a moisturizer on your skin and beard. Take advantage by applying Beard Oil after your shower while the skin is still moist. Depending on how dry your bread may be, apply the beard oil in the morning, reapply once during the day. A Beard Balm should be applied after the beard oil, it adds extra moisture to your beard.
Trimming your beard when needed. Trimming your beard on a regular bases will keep those split ends in control and keeps your ends healthy enough to avoid damaging due to the extreme temperatures.
6. Wiping off any rain, snow or ice from your beard keeps it from drying out. Covering your beard with a bandana, scarf or mask. Helps protect it from the weather.
Remember moisturizing your facial hair and skin, trimming your beard when needed and the right beard oil will keep your beard looking healthier and feeling great all year round. The advantage of making your own beard oil recipe can better accommodate your needs for your beard.
Here are a few recipes to get your started: Fresh and Clean Beard oil recipe ½ oz jojoba oil ½ oz argan oil 5 drops lemon essential oil 5 drops eucalyptus essential oil 2-3 drops tea tree oil Smells like a fresh morning breeze Help you sleep beard oil recipe ½ oz argan oil ½ jojoba oil 5 drops Lavender essential oil 2-3 drops lime essential oil 2-3 drops bergamot essential oil Smell nice to help you sleep after a long day. The Bold Man Beard oil recipe 1/2/ oz jojoba oil ½ oz argan oil ¼ oz grape seed oil 3-5 drops tobacco essential oil 2-3 drops cherry essential oil 2-3 drops amber essential oil Smells like a bold masculine cigar.
Insight Magazine
Meet the Mastermind behind the Styled by Linwood brand
by Lesley Logan
At some point in my life, that poor kid from Lockhart, South Carolina knew that he had a feel for clothes. All around me, each and every day, I collect snapshots of silhouettes and colors and textures, all of them into the folder of my brain that houses fashion. There are days where I sit and people-watch for inspiration, and into the folder it goes. If you want to be sentimental, it truly started in high school where I bought my clothes from thrift stores, searching for those hidden gems that the rich gave away for free. I’d look for quality, cashmere, wool, 100% cotton, anything that made it seem as if I had the money to buy from the mall like everyone else. I’ll admit, even sometimes I’d take something here and there from my Uncle Bill’s smokeshack (full of clothes) to add an accessory or two if I needed it. Every once in a while I was given something nice from my favorite cousin, Candy Gore, and man was he something out of a classic magazine. He gave me my love for sharkskin suits. He’s one of those well dressed men that resonated with me and still inspires me to this day.
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Special Edition / 2023 / Volume 4
Once I got older I started to forget my love for clothes, my business with landscaping got steady, and I had a daughter to take care of. For a while I dressed simply, in fact, most wouldn’t recognize the Leslie back then knowing the Leslie they see today, and then one day it was as if a gate opened inside of me that hadn’t been opened in a long time. Here and there I began collecting clothes, hats, shoes, items that made me feel good- and truly that’s what it’s all about, feeling. Quite literally, my true colors came out, and boy were they bold. I began wearing our parrots feathers on my hats, or buying feather bundles from Michael’s to add a little something extra. I developed relationships with the owners of suit shops, most notably my buddy down at Why Not Fashion where I bought items and accessories. I even broke the lines of gender, wearing women’s brooches on my lapels, and other womens accessories. Whatever I felt good about, I got it, and I rocked it, and don’t think I forgot about my roots at thrift stores. It was like an itch for me. Not only did I love dressing myself, but I liked helping others feel good. Something about colors has always gotten to me. The way they work with skin tones, the way they compliment the seasons, the crazy combinations, I’ve never shied away from them. No one should. Something was telling me that I should get into fashion, and for a while I doubted myself, but that’s where my daughter came in. She told me that if I loved it, then there was nothing I would regret more than a life unlived, thus, passion unpursued, and that was the kick I needed. I started out styling men in downtown Charlotte on the weekends, and eventually got some business cards printed out. My daughter
and I decided on the name “Styling With Linwood”. From there I even got involved in a little bit of modeling down in California and other places, making connections along the way. My first fashion show was with Charlotte Seen in November of 2021, and truly, I was in my element. Since then, my reach into the world of fashion has grown deeper and deeper, and I can confidently say that the old Leslie was destined to have his revelation. Nothing forwardly defines a person more than the clothes they lay on their bodies.
Insight Magazine
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Special Edition / 2023 / Volume 4
BLACK MENTAL HEALTH SYMPOSIUM
SEPTEMBER 28-29 2023 Hyatt Regency Riverfront 9am - 5pm EST Jacksonville, FL
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The professionals at Summers Home Group are dedicated to making the home buying process as smooth as possible for you. You can depend on us to provide expert advice and guidance through every step of the process, from finding your perfect home all the way to the closing table. With our extensive knowledge of the Florida real estate market, we’ll help you find your dream home – even in today’s competitive market. Let us show you what the path to homeownership looks like in the Sunshine State!
Scan QR Code To search property from your mobile phone.
7 Retirement Real Estate Investing FAQs by Shelton & Tiffany Brown We’ve all heard the worst-case scenarios: pensions and Social Security benefits are on less-than-solid financial footing, and they may not provide the steady retirement income needed for your golden years. You might even be considering an alternative approach to retirement income and thinking about devising a retirement real estate investing strategy to give you solid streams of passive income — and avoid the roller-coaster of 401(k) plans which may or may not provide the financial foundation you need later in life. You might also be wondering what exactly retirement real estate investing looks like. What are the pros and cons? And how can investors develop an effective strategy to prepare for retirement, especially when it comes to finances? Here are four retirement real estate investing strategies to consider in this often lucrative (though somewhat intimidating) form of passive income generation.
Retirement Real Estate Investing Made Simple What the heck is retirement real estate investing? Retirement real estate investing is simply the process by which you accumulate real estate assets for the purpose of providing streams of passive income before or during your retirement years.
Which types of real estate investments are available to supplement your retirement income? We are glad you asked! Contrary to what many people think, retirement investing with real estate is not limited to acquiring single-family homes. There are other options used to build passive income wealth for retirement. Other types of real estate such as commercial properties, multi-family units, apartments as well as real estate investment trusts make for an awesome addition to your portfolio. The key, as with all areas of investing, is to diversify your assets and ensure you keep an eye on all the areas of your financial operations. With any of these options, you should work with a trusted real estate professional. Let’s talk about the most popular one first, single-family homes. You can reap the benefits of owning a home in two ways: •
Fix and Flip: This is a very popular method to quickly collect funds for your retirement. It involves the purchase of a home, making repairs and updates, then selling it for a profit. Repairs may take several months to complete, but once your sale is done, the proceeds are paid to you in one lump sum. You can save the money or reinvest it into another deal to grow your retirement nest egg.
•
Rental Property: It’s no secret that real estate continues to appreciate or increase in value over time. That means that what you buy today should be worth more tomorrow. If you choose to buy property and lease it out, you can price it to cover the mortgage expenses plus an additional income for yourself. Instead of receiving one big payout, you would be receiving monthly payments from your tenant(s).
How does this approach differ from typical real estate investing? While real estate investing as a wealth-building strategy on the whole focuses on different areas of cash generation — such as wholesaling, rehabbing, and the acquisition of rental properties — real estate investing in a retirement context usually is centered on just one branch of this technique: the accumulation of buy-andhold rental properties that bring in consistent cash flow (without having to expend any additional effort).
Insight Magazine
Finance
Commercial property is also becoming a popular tool in real estate investments. Acquisition of the property can be similar to residential, but there are some differences.
What makes real estate investing such a powerful retirement strategy? Aside from the expected passive income cashflow — which we will tackle in just a moment — there are three key advantages that retirement real estate investing has over other investing strategies, such as investing in the stock market or building up the coffers of your 401(k). •
There are huge tax advantages with owning rental properties, including the cost of repairs, depreciation, interest and travel. If set up properly, your real estate investing business can help reduce your tax liability in the form of write-offs and can save you from many of the needless fees that accompany many other forms of generating income for retirement, such as investing in the stock market or contributing to a 401(k).
•
Pay off the mortgage of your rental property — with other people’s money! Namely the rent paid by a tenant. The patient real estate investor realizes if they plan accordingly, and let simple compound interest take over, that they can (over the course of a few years) acquire a powerful passive income stream, with little or no money out-of-pocket.
•
Real estate appreciates in value. It is not 100% guaranteed due to unpredictable fluctuations in market value, but if you choose a suitable, and invest in a solid property with potential, then you are more than likely to not only see an increase in cash flow, but also, net worth.
How is somebody supposed to live in retirement on $200/month? There are two key things to keep in mind about passive income retirement investing from a real estate perspective:
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•
That $400/month approximation is based on a per rental unit basis, not per property. Meaning if you have a commercial property or apartment complex you own, with multiple units, then you have potential for much more than $400/month in passive income.
•
The goal is to acquire a portfolio of rental properties that provide retirement income that in the aggregate will help you reach your retirement income goals. This not only keeps you diversified financially, but helps make the goal much more attainable.
What is the best way to get started with retirement investing in real estate? There is a simple answer: Prepare yourself. Develop your knowledge and skill set as a real estate investing entrepreneur. Make sure you have access to the funds that you will need to get started. Talk to a lender and find out what their requirements are before you retire if you plan to finance the deal. You may need to show a solid employment history and proof of income to qualify for a loan. When you are ready, and you feel you have the requisite resources, dip your toe in the water. While there is no guarantee of return with any type of investing, but if you stick with it — and remain patient until your abilities match your ambition — realizing your dream of steady, predictable income might be closer than you think.
Written by Shelton & Tiffany Brown ACTHR, Inc. The Legacy Resource Group sheltonbrown@acthrinc.com thelegacyresourcegroup@gmail.com
Special Edition / 2023 / Volume 4
Wanderlove: Marquise And Desiree Burns are a “SERENDIPITOUS” force to be reckoned with by Kamaya Tarpleyy
2016 was the year that a miracle happened over social media and Facebook brought two unexpected lovers together. After hopping jets as flight attendants, Marquise added Desiree as a friend on the platform and when the two eventually met, sparks flew. Desiree affectionately calls Marquise her “Serendipity” when the phrase “love at first sight” was brought to fruition. Their first date was at the Redondo Beach pier in California where they partook in seafood, funnel cake, and paddle boats. Seven years later, they are going strong as partners in business and partners in marriage. At the start of their relationship, things were long distance, but they kept the tether strong by keeping communication flowing. A year into the relationship, Marquise knew it was no question that Desiree was the one for him. As flight attendants, they naturally have the propensity to travel but made it a formal tradition within their relationship to take a list of two trips every year. They found excitement in applying their markers as opposed to forming their marriage around anyone else’s expectations.
Both Marquise and Desiree found the pandemic to be one of the most challenging but also rewarding times in their relationship. During the Pandemic, they were able to focus on Marquise’s business “Burns Brims” and their shared YouTube channel, “Desi & Quise Wanderlove”. Through their channel, we can see the joy and love that comes from the Burns as they travel from the states to varying countries. Desiree says that her favorite qualities in Marquise are his levels of communication, his unbridled confidence, and his ability to remain to understand. Marquise says that Desiree’s loving and nurturing nature is the
main reason why he fell so deeply in love. They both say that the most thrilling thing about marriage overall is having another person create adventurous memories and to grow old with. With time, they see respect for one another as an essential to applying boundaries that keep their foundation stable.
Lifestyle
INSIGHT MAGAZINE 2023 ULTIMATE GIFTING GUIDE
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nniversary can be a stressful time when trying to decipher what your partner wants the most. Some may even be stunted in coming up with ideas even though they know their better half more than they know themselves. For that, we have a few suggestions that will make gift giving that much easier. These recommendations meet even the most honest of budgets - making sure you don’t break the bank. Make your gift an epic one with the following suggestions for the one you love. For the technology lovers, the Roku Ultra comes with the option to connect your wireless or wired headphones, to give your partner privacy and yourself some well-needed sleep. Uncommon Goods currently has their Personalized Mixtape Pillow on sale; the ideal fit for a couple with hours of songs on their playlists. One of the most fun things on this list would be the Sprocket Portable Instant Photo Printer by HP. Keep those memories on hand or frame them immediately for a daily reminder of your union. www.roku.com/products/roku-ultra
If your lover has a taste for good old fashioned home cooking, then surely they will adore Chef Jernard’s cookbook, Southern Inspired: More than 100 Delicious From My American Table to Yours. In it, your partner will find mouth watering recipes that will leave you both salivating for more. In a way, it’s a present for you both! On the food note, the Wine & Cheese Engraved Slate Coaster Set by Personalization Mall is a cute yet elegant way to leave your personal touch on your home. https://www.amazon.com/SouthernInspired-Delicious-Dishes-American/
The Scavenger Box: Romantic Scavenger Hunt Kit is perfect for the adventurous couple to partake in. For the sentimental, Beating 50 Percent has put their Memories of Us: An Anniversary Journal on sale so you can store each and every precious memory. Never let your partner go a day without knowing they are loved with the Lovebox. In it, you can leave a note inside and it lets your partner know there is something waiting for them. Any of these precious choices would be good ones but the most important gift of all is the one you have chosen to spend your life with. Website: www.thescavengerbox.com
Going Beyond the Bricks: Get to Know Bishop Vance & Lady Oldes By Kamaya Tarpley
Bishop Vance R. Oldes and his wife, Lady Nicole Oldes are two of the most soughtafter Baptist leaders out there. The two have come together to get the good word of God out into their community and the world overall. From TikTok to YouTube, they have been seen on social media embracing trends but establishing their platforms as religious havens. Bishop Oldes communicated with his followers through spoken word and music. With the support and wisdom of Lady Nicole Oldes, a mission to help all is obtainable. Both Bishop and Lady Oldes spent their childhood years in Washington D.C. The Bishop was initially a troubled teen, something many can relate to. It was in 1975 that he found Christ and then in 1994 when he began to preach. Come 1998, the Bishop was officially ordained through the Baptist Church,v establishing him as a powerful voice in the community. Fast forward to the year 2019, Vance was consecrated as a Bishop by Bishop Glen A. Staples of the Temple of Praise International Fellowship of Churches. Lady Nicole Oldes was on a much different path, spending her career as a nurse for over 20 years. Already one who believed in the power of virtue, she found a home on the Board of Directors for Liberty House Bed Space Fund. She has shown that she is more than willing to put her intelligence to use when in 2017, she partnered with Business 4 Billionaires. Do not let the name fool you, they graciously provide safe havens that function as a refuge for those who wish to improve their livelihoods.
Nicole currently serves as the Chief Administrative Officer of Liberty House International Ministries. Bishop and Lady Oldes both review the accounting, scheduling, maintenance, ministry operations, and more of the church. The wheels of the church are rolling and rolling quickly with two impressive minds and open hearts on the scene. In addition, they provide an example to others of what true teamwork looks like amongst a married couple. Bishop Vance lives his life to his own motto ”‘Going Beyond the Bricks” in which he takes his message to those outside of the church. Ultimately, he and Lady Oldes look forward to continuing to preach and uplift communities across the nation.
“ Bishop Vance lives his life to his own motto ”‘Going Beyond the Bricks” in which he takes his message to those outside of the church. “
Chef Monica ® Blends, Sweet & Savory Curry Holiday Vegetable Roast
FOOD
Written by Chef Monica
Roasted Brussel Sprouts & Cinnamon Squash Prep Time 35 mins
Cook Time 25 mins
6.
Ingredients: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
1 lbs. Bag of Brussels Sprouts, ends cleaned and roots trimmed away 1 medium Red Onion, Julienned 1 ½ Tbsp. Grapeseed Oil ½ Tbsp. of Red Wine Vinegar Kosher Salt and Black Pepper, to taste 1 lbs. Butternut Squash peeled, seeded, and cut into 1-inch cubes (uncooked) 1 Tbsp. of Chef Monica ® Sweet & Savory Curry Blend 2 Tbsp. Olive Oil 1 Tbsp. Organic Maple Syrup 1 ½ tsp. of Fresh Ground Cinnamon .5 lb. of Pecan Halves, salted and roasted ½ cup Dried Cranberries ¼ cup of Organic Maple Syrup, as needed Juice of 2 Fresh of Oranges and Zest
Instructions: 1. 2. 3. 4.
5.
Follow the instructions below for toasting your pecans. Preheat oven to 375℉. Lightly grease a baking sheet with 1 Tbsp. of olive oil. Slice Brussels sprouts in half and toss with red onions, red wine vinegar, kosher salt, black pepper and olive oil Place onto a baking sheet. Turn Brussel Sprouts cut side down, and roast in the oven at 375°F for about 20 minutes. During the last 8 minutes of roasting, turn sprouts over for even browning on the opposite side. In a medium bowl, combine cubed butternut squash 2 Tbsp. of Olive Oil, Chef Monica ® Sweet & Savory, maple syrup, and cinnamon, and toss to mix.
7.
Lightly grease another baking sheet with 1 Tbsp. of olive oil. Place squash in a single layer on the baking sheet in the oven. Bake for 25 minutes, turning once half-way through baking, until softened. Combine all ingredients together and serve immediately. Taste and correct for seasoning.
Toasting Pecans: Heat a large sauté on the stove top to medium. Add pecan halves, season with salt and toast pecans until they turn slightly brown and begin to smell toasty. Toast pecans for about 3-5 mins on both sides until browned. Do not leave the burner unattended or they will burn. Remove when done, set aside and allow to cool. Add to root veggies, toss and serve.
Assembly: In a large bowl, combine roasted Brussels Sprouts and red onions, oven roasted butternut squash, toasted pecans, and cranberries, and mix to combine. Next, toss in dried cranberries, organic maple syrup to taste, and juice of fresh orange juice as needed and serve warm or cold. Talking Points: Chef Monica demonstrates how to use our least favorite childhood green vegetable; the Brussel Sprout and turn it into a family favorite side dish for the holidays A beautiful side dish that can be served warm or cold Very versatile, can be turned into a salad or simply a hearty side dish This recipe is gluten free, vegetarian-friendly and rich in fiber. Something great for everyone to enjoy during the holidays
Chef Monica ® Blends Smoky Cafe Chocolate and Peppermint Bark Ingredients: •
2 cups crushed chocolate cookies, crushed
•
2 Tbsp. Chef Monica ® Espresso BBQ Blends
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4 Candy Canes, broken into small pieces
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1/4 cups Unsalted Butter, melted
•
1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
•
8 oz. White Chocolate, chopped
Instructions: 1.
Line a 9x9 pan with foil. Set aside.
2.
Reserve 2 Tbsp. of crushed Oreos and 1 Tbsp. of crushed candy canes. Mix together the rest of the crushed cookies, Chef Monica ® Espresso Blends and melted butter. Once combined, press the crust into the bottom of the pan in an even layer. Set aside.
3.
Over a double broiler, melt semi-sweet chocolate chips.
4.
Over a double broiler, in a separate bowl melt white chocolate.
5.
Pour semi-sweet chocolate over the crust and spread in an even layer.
6.
Pour the white chocolate over the semi-sweet chocolate, then with a butter knife, swirl the chocolates together.
7.
Sprinkle with 2 Tbsp. of crushed Oreos and crushed peppermints.
8.
Refrigerate until firm, serve and enjoy
Chef Monica ® Blends Kiplon Post-Turkey Potato Holiday Salad Ingredients: •
1 ½ lb. of leftover Turkey
•
2 Tbsp. of Chef Monica Blends ® Herbed Citrus Blend
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2 Tbsp. of Extra Virgin Olive Oil
•
1 pint of Heirloom grape tomatoes, halved
•
2 lbs. Red Potatoes, quartered
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1 medium Red Onion, julienned
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2 cloves of Fresh Garlic, fine minced (optional)
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2 English Cucumbers, thinly sliced into half-moons
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1 cup pitted Kalamata olives, halved
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8 oz. Feta Cheese crumbled
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½ cup Greek Vinaigrette Dressing
•
¼ cup Fresh Dill Sprigs, pulled apart from stem
Preparation: 1.
Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a small oven-safe dish with aluminum foil and set it to the side.
2.
Season turkey with Chef Monica ® Herbed Citrus Blend.
3.
Heat a medium-sized sauté pan on medium-high heat, add extra-virgin olive oil.
4.
Reheat turkey on each side until golden brown. When turkey is complete, remove from oven-safe dish and let stand for 10 minutes.
5.
Cut into small bite-size pieces.
6.
Fill a large pot with cold water, add potatoes, and season water with salt. Bring water to a boil and cook potatoes until they can be easily pierced with a knife.
7.
Drain the potatoes, and rinse them under cold water to cool. Transfer potatoes to a large bowl and set aside.
8.
Next, assemble the potato salad by tossing together all ingredients: add turkey breast, tomatoes, red onions, garlic, cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese. Lightly add in dressing, toss to combine, and garnish with fresh dill and serve.
Power Couple Jernard & Keena Wells Take on The 4 F’s: Faith, Family, Food and Fun by Devona Keel
Entertainment
K
eena and Jernard are the perfect examples of when black love evolves into becoming a power couple. After 24 years of marriage, they have collected many accolades both apart and together. Creating a cookbook together, sharing the love of their 9 kids, and bringing a business to life are all on their long list of achievements. The biggest achievement of them all would be bringing God into the forefront of their relationship and establishing a holy union. For the twosome, manifesting a legacy for their children is the ultimate goal and that is exactly what they are doing. Marriage of course comes with its downs and disagreements as much as it comes with its benefits. After 7 years of marriage, Keena and Jernard felt that separation was imminent, however realizing the error of the decision, they came back together and were stronger than ever. Through the troubling time, they found solace in open communication with one another; a practice
that they apply to this day. During the emergence of the recent pandemic, they found comfort in one another. While the lockdown created stress for many, Kenna and Jernard couldn’t be more thankful for the time together. Both have a linear view of the best part of their marriage and that is that they love one another intentionally. They also apply a “Family First” mentality to any struggles that may come their way. In a funny way, it is because their cousins have their own dating history that the two even met! Looking back, they would tell their past selves to focus on their partner and the things they need in your relationship. Hearing them and creating your own rules for your relationship are important principles that they would hope the next generation would take with them. In the future, the two would like to spearhead a podcast, write another book together, and be the quirky hosts of a couples’ talk show. Now in the immediate future, they see a trip to Dubai on the
horizon to mark their 25th anniversary. Keena and Jernard both refer to marriage in general as a seed that takes nurturing and plenty of light to grow. They are proud to say they attend marriage retreats and enjoy regular date nights to keep their relationship strong. Marriage can be a challenging union but after 24 years, Keena and Jernard give us a love to admire.
After You Say I Do: Readers Advice for Staying In Love by Lesley Logan
Lifelong partnership has been around since the dawn of time. Countless married couples have been marked throughout the course of history as holders of the most esteemed of institutions. Whether your wedding was in the spring or the fall, it is the time afterward that is most important to celebrate. It is not easy staying in love for decades on end, but several couples advised
Insight Magazine
“Falling in love is the easy part, staying in love is where the real work comes in.”
as to what works for them. They let the audience know what has kept their passion alive and what keeps their marriage as strong as the day they said, “I Do.” To kick off the words of advice, we did a survey on tips from couples married 5 years to 25 years, who say their love has stood the test of time because they asked themselves would I do it again and smiled and said absolutely. Readers suggested, it’s important to start each morning appreciating each other and how date night is so important. It never stops after you get married. Going on small outings and spending time with each other never goes out of style.
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In the collection of advice, it is stated that taking breaks from work and the kids is equally as important as catching up with your loved one. While you are catching up, taking time to clear any grudges or problems you are both arguing about is vital. There is no going to bed angry when you want a healthy and long-lasting marriage. Overall, you never want to stop making your relationship better; find common ground and always negotiate any disagreements. Also, one couple pointed out that marriage is a gift from God. God wanted married couples to stay together forever and not end up in divorce. “13. Put up with one another. Forgive. Pardon any offenses against one another, as the Lord has par-
doned you because you should act in kind. 14. But above all these, put on love! Love is the perfect tie to bind these together. (Colossians 3:13-14. Bible) The most important recommendation that was given was of course the simplest one. You never want to allow your partner to question whether you love them or not. We can all become content in who we are, where we are, and who we are with but it’s important to never allow the depth of your love to falter with your better half. This is of course enhanced by communicating with them and figuring out what their needs are. Falling in love is the easy part, staying in love is where the real work comes in.
Special Edition / 2023 / Volume 4
Insight Magazine
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In 2020 Chef Nikki published her first cookbook, Xtra Sugar. The chef shares her delicious, one of a kind recipes and also shares a little about herself. TOD GET YOUR COPY TODAY
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Take a visit to YouTube and watch Xtra Sugar, Cooking in the Kitchen with Nikki. Hangout with Chef Nikki and special guests as they cook it up. And dont forget to HIT THE SUBSCRIBE BUTTON
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Special Edition / 2023 / Volume 4
Insight Magazine
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Special Edition / 2023 / Volume 4
Lifestyle
INSIGHT’S TOP ROMANTIC COUPLES GETAWAY FOR SEASONS With Spring in the air, Birthdays and Anniversaries around the corner, take a look at our top picks By Lesley Logan
Sometimes when the travel bug bites you, you have no choice but to bite back. The urge to pack yours and your partner’s bags comes when you find a new and enticing destination. However, occasionally, you may struggle with finding the best place for you and your significant other. You may
wonder if a location is romantic enough for the two of you while providing experiences you will never forget. Well, look no further than these cities that are bound to give you both memories to last a lifetime!
The first is Quebec City, Quebec in sister to the United States, Canada! The location is the home of popular tourist landmarks, Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac and Montmorency Falls. The Catskills in New York is a mountainous region that has been marveled at for decades due to its natural beauty. It offers picturesque hiking trails in the Fall as well as thrilling ski resorts and winter activities for colder weather. Maine is also a northeast destination where the oranges and yellows of leaves in autumn create a scene even movies couldn’t produce. In a swift turn to a warmer climate, continue to explore interesting cultures by making a pit stop in the beachy town of Tulum, Mexico. Relax under the sun or absorb a piece of history when you visit the ancient Mayan ruins. The Maldives are an incredibly sought-after
South Asian destination due to the beauty of the islands. Many couples attend the country to lounge in comfortable bungalows and play in the warm sun kissed sand any time of the year. Puerto Rico is the ideal location for couples looking for vibrancy and a home away from home in the caribbean. Frequent the colorful buildings in Old San Juan and take a sip of the territory’s famous rum. Finally, a trip to Savannah, Georgia takes you back in time with its colonial architecture and cobblestone roads. No matter where you choose to go, make it romantic and make it memorable!
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