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Cassandra’s Alterations
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AfterAre Your Straps Break There No Boot If, Ands, Or Buts About It! A Letter From The Editor A Letter from the Editor
I would be the first to admit that God had to reach way down, I mean really deep to find me.didn’t Like the song All goes, I wasplans, lost like a ship What if tomorrow arrive? of your hopes without sail. That was me and by His graceto and mercy madeifit through and dreams wouldn’t have a street park on. IWhat those everything storms. Never did I imagine my life make a better that you decidedthat to put off would until tomorrow never turn and He would grant me a second chance. Another opportunity happened? There would be no reason to save for a rainy to rejoice sorrows and short comingsofinto His sea of day,and andrelinquish you couldmy spare someone the trouble making forgivingness. promises. What if your last opportunity seemingly expired today? What would you do? I used to be stubborn and resisted what God was trying to do in my life. I hadI’ve ignored calling keptseem on doing way. Surely beenhis told that and I often like I things do toomy much. there were some good days to go along with the bad. To be honest Honestly, I feel like I am not doing enough and I’m a firm I still experience eventhat after I have received now believer inthose knowing God wouldn’t putsalvation, anythingbut on me I got captain to help me manage the ride. I used to take credit for all that I couldn’t handle. I sometimes wonder how life would of my successes. I walked around with my chest pushed out, boasting be if I chose to sit idle and accept what it presented to me. I and bragging about how good I was, and what I did and could do. In have found that to be very boring. In my opinion, opportunity the midst of all my self-gratifying endeavours, everything suddenly fell is a blessing that isn’t afforded to everyone. A challenge apart. I couldn’t pin point one particular moment or event, but I lost all to me is an adventure. What is the worst that can happen? control and found it very difficult to maintain and carry on. If I do nothing, I fail, and if I try I don’t, but instead learn something myself. Relinquish your in I didn’t realize it new thenabout but God had literally broken thepride boot and straps return that I used toacquire pull my life. self up, or at least I thought I had. He thought so much of me that He knocked me down just so that I could see and The advice giventhat to me someone know that it best was He, and ever He alone hadhappened pulled me when back up. His told me to make my tomorrow happen today. In doing plans for me were a lot greater than anything I ever imagined forso my way through with a keystill thatbeonly myself.I have Yet, ifpressed I continued doing things doors my way, I would laying in hope provided. I have also learned the difference between that pit, full of sorrow, shame, failure and misfortune. what God blesses me with and what life can burden me with well. compare toconcern knowing when confident We as must be Imindful of it the God hasto forbe our lives. Heand when to be quiet, because sometimes allows usget to make someone may it confused mistakes with hopes that with being arrogant.we will soon learn from them. I learned that it isMake impossible for me to you tomorrow make it in this world alone. I happen today, but most also learned that even after importantly make it count. my boot straps had broken, He Life is but a whisper and replaced them with a pair that we must put ourselves in a he purposed to walk in favor and position to hear what it is righteousness. telling us.
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CONTENTS
Cassandra’s Alterations
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May/June
Cheryl Clayton Waters
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2016
Mirror Mirror
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Also Inside
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Jay Ancrum Jay Ancrum Ministries
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Summer Beauty Tips Bovanti Cosmetics & Spa
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Dr. Courtney Edwards
Anthony Anderson
Toriane Lee The 7-0-4 Plan
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Thelma’s Down Home Cooking
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Antonio Colson
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Dr.
Courtney Edwards
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Charlotte - May/June - 2016
By Dawn Cauthen-Thornton Photos by Todd Youngblood Photograhy
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n any given day, Premier Smiles of Charlotte dental office is buzzing with customers ready to perfect their pearly whites. The practice is owned and operated by 35-year-old Courtney Edwards, and services all ages. Dr. Edwards, a native of Memphis, TN, was ambitious from the start.
“I always knew I wanted to be called doctor, but I didn’t want it to be in the medical field. I can only deal with small amounts of blood and bodily fluids,” confesses Dr. Edwards. “My initial goal was to be in research and win the Nobel Prize for studying hypertension. The research I conducted was on rats and after a while, I grew tired of that.” Being a scientist always came natural to Dr. Edwards. In school she gravitated towards science clubs, science projects, and anything closely related. At one point she explored the life of a Marine Biologist and set out to ‘save the turtles.’ Knowing that young girls don’t typically follow that path, she suggests fueling even the slightest interests by seeking out educational programs, science clubs, books, and even talking to a counselor or teacher about how to forge ahead. After realizing her passion wasn’t in research, Dr. Edwards burst through the doors of Meharry Medical College in Nashville and declared, “I want to be a doctor. Tell me what to do.” Through laughter, the administrators helped her explore other areas, and soon she settled on dentistry. What she didn’t know was deciding on a specialty and being accepted to the program were fairly easy. “I started my journey at Tennessee State University with many hurdles, even sleeping in the car for a day. I got my refund check the next day, cashed it, and found an apartment that day. After that, I found a Salvation Army and bought a small television and a radio, and found a mattress in the newspaper. Over time, I was able to afford other things, but at that moment, that was all I needed,” she says. In 2008, while still in dental school, the soon to be doctor saw a flyer hanging in an elevator advertising an internship with (the late) Dr. Spurgeon Webber, Jr., a Charlotte dentist, philanthropist, and mentor to many. She immediately snatched the paper down (to avoid someone else seeing it) and rushed to call him. Within weeks, she made her first trip to the Queen City and convinced Dr. Webber to hold the position for almost two years. In a field dominated by men, being a female dentist can be a trying experience. Confidence, determination, and skill are must-haves upon entrance. There is no doubt that Dr. Edwards walks tall, has a plan, and aims to be the best. “Many of the men in my field automatically think I may not be as smart because I’m a woman. Sometimes they feel like they had to ‘show me the ropes’. It happened when I purchased this practice. Some assumed I didn’t know what I was doing. I felt like I had to prove myself.”
“I always knew I wanted to be called doctor, but I didn’t want it to be in the medical field. I can only deal with small amounts of blood and bodily fluids”.
In 2014, Dr. Edwards purchased Premier Smiles without it being for sale. She had a vision of owning her own practice Continued on next page Charlotte - May/June - 2016
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and persuaded the previous owner to sell it to her. Within two months, she was a business owner. “I absolutely love what I do. I couldn’t see myself doing anything else.” She beams with pride speaking about the personal joys of her profession. “I love being able to take people’s pain away and having a solution to their problem. I see so many different scenarios walk through my doors. Some have experienced trauma and even child abuse. I ask God to use me as a vessel and allow me to heal and maybe that will bring them closer to him.” Dr. Edwards gets her spiritual guidance at Ebenezer Baptist Church under the direction of Dr. Leonzo Lynch and is excited for the day that she finishes her new member classes and can officially join. Volunteering is the first thing she wants to do upon receiving her member status. Outside of providing professional services, Dr. Edwards doesn’t shy away from community involvement. She was a child who grew up benefitting from state assistance so she understands the lack of knowledge about health. Every year she donates over 500 toothbrush kits to schools, churches, and other organizations who may need them. “Sometimes I’ll take several kits to a truck stop and pass them out to the truck drivers who I know are on the road 18 hours a day.” Her most prized act of kindness is randomly selecting one patient to makeover each year. There is no contest, no drawing, and you can’t register for this gift. If she sees a need, she fulfills it, no matter the cost. A little known fact about the newly single southern girl - Prior to purchasing her practice, she dedicated herself to getting in shape, so much, that she became a bodybuilder. “I was 190 lbs., so a friend and I hired MJ Fox, a personal trainer here in Charlotte. She was able to get both of us in amazing shape within 12 weeks.” I was surprised hearing this, though I shouldn’t have been; Dr. Edwards is the epitome of dedication.
“I absolutely love what I do. I couldn’t see myself doing anything else”.
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When she sets her mind to a cause, whether personal or professional, she does everything in her power to attain it. And she doesn’t mind helping others with their personal goals as well. The eldest of three children has been a speaker at schools and extracurricular programs across the city for several years. Having a nurse for a mother, and an engineer for a sister, helps keep her skills sharp, and her feet grounded. Science apparently runs through her veins and it h sounds like she wouldn’t have it any other way.
Premier Smiles Of North Carolina 2303 W. Morehead Street - Ste- 103 Charlotte, NC 28208 (704) 817-8728 www.premiersmilesnc.com
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Sheilia Coleman Shuford
Mirror Mirror Mobile Accessories Boutique
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heilia Coleman Shuford is the owner of Mirror Mirror Mobile Accessories Boutique, a mobilized retail mecca that sells a variety of accessories including scarfs, hats, sunglasses, handbags, jewelry, earrings, bracelets, necklaces, anklets, rings and more. Shuford specializes in statement pieces and offers jewelry and accessories for every age group and for every woman. A native of Buffalo, NY, Shuford is the daughter of Hoyt and Sarah Coleman. Shuford is married to Elisha Shuford, Jr. and has one daughter Tyler Synclair Blackmon, who also serves as her business partner. Shuford has always been determined, adventurous, and a gogetter; three qualities she insists one must have to succeed in any business. A good support system is important and key, she asserts. Shuford says Mirror Mirror was born after she asked herself a simple question. “I was stagnate in my career and trying to fiqure out her next chapter in life. I made an appointment with a career counselor. She asked me what was my passion and my purpose and what was I going to do about it,” she says. Shuford felt she needed to do something in life that would make her happy and so she decided to go into business for herself. When presented with the opportunity to buy the mobile boutique, Shuford says she couldn’t say no. With a little love and a lot of hard work, Mirror Mirror Mobile Accessories Boutique has become a place where her clients image always come first. “We are a mobile boutique so our options are limitless. We service religious organizations, community events, bachelorette parties, family reunions, ladies night out, birthdays, wine tasting, private and retirement celebrations. When you host a party, you’ll get a discount based on the total sales for the day and a hostess gift to take with you,” she says. Continued on next page
“We are a mobile boutique so our options are limitless”.
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Shuford also provides the opportunity for someone to gift the boutique for a loved one, or book it for a special occasion. Mirror Mirror can be found at events across Charlotte, N.C., and other surrounding areas. Shuford says boutique has become a mini Charlotte icon. “All you have to do is look for the green bus,” she says. Some of the pieces available atMirror Mirror offers are Contemporary Jewelry. These pieces are handpicked and curated by Shuford herself. The pieces are on trend and under $25. She ae also offers Vintage Goods. “There’s no way to have a mobile accessories boutique without a few vintage gems. The once loved pieces show style through the decades that are still making a statement today,” says Shuford. There are Handmade Goods which support locally made jewelry artists. There are also a whole lot of accessories. Shuford says no outfit is complete without first putting on a few accessories. From bags, to scarves, and unique items too, there is something for everyone’s taste and wallet. What Shuford loves most about being a business owner is the people and the energy. “I have always been a peopleperson so I get excited about the interaction. I love it when ladies step into my boutique and are excited about the jewelry and the atmosphere. Mirror Mirror is a fun and unique way to go shopping with your girlfriends. It’s were the girls come to hang out, to talk and shop. It’s like getting a new lipstick that you love,” she says. h
Pictured with Sheilia is her daughter and business partner, Tyler Mirror Mirror Mobile Accesories Boutique www.mirrormirrorworld.com 716-812-3674
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Champion Sports & Entertainment Champion Financials Terry L. Watson Photos by J Humble Photography
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homasville, N.C. native and University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill graduate, Anthony Anderson has accomplished a lot of things in his life. Though he is most proud of the relationships that have formed from these experiences and the lives of which he has had the opportunity to impact. Now currently married and residing in Durham, N.C., Anderson began teaching, coaching and mentoring in Chapel Hill-Carrboro city schools immediately after college. While pursuing his career, he also realized that he had a passion for business. That led to the creation of his first company, Double A’s Electronics of which he launched in 1998. What started as a self-taught hobby turned into a business where he sold and installed car stereo equipment. This venture quickly taught him about profit and loss. “Losing did not feel too well. While cultivating and increasing my business acumen, I learned that an exit strategy is just as important as the developmental phase,” he says. Anderson continued to follow his passion and in 2006 he decided to go in a different direction. With the loss of his best friend and becoming a newlywed, he says his motivation to do more greatly increased. He created Guardian Consulting Group, a business consulting firm that specialized in cost cutting, long term and responsive assistance for small businesses, and launched a non-profit organization called, Things Change. In 2008, he entered into a contract with a professional sports and entertainment firm that focused on developing client-owned businesses. By 2009, he celebrated the opening of a Golden Corral franchise, his first major project. Within two and a half years, he developed a portfolio of client-owned businesses that currently generate over a $11,000,000 annually in revenue. In the midst of the twist and turns, Anderson says he was in search of a more sustainable career. In 2011 he created Champion Sports & Entertainment where he presently serves as a personal business manager, providing life management and financial advisory services for professional athletes, their families, and their businesses.
“Losing did not feel too well. While cultivating and increasing my business acumen, I learned that an exit strategy is just as important as the developmental phase”.
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“At Champion Sports and Entertainment we create and coordinate the most impactful experience possible for your entertainment booking and production needs. Private event planning is among our most utilized services. Entertainment is crafted to your custom needs by our innovative and experienced staff,” says Anderson. Their staff has more than 15 years combined of experience in planning and coordinating the entire gamut of entertainment expressions. “Choosing an entertainment consultant is the most important decision you’ll make in transforming your idea into an event or production that is memorable, amazing and/or profitable,” he says. This is where Champion Sports & Entertainment is most effective. They work to acquire the best talent, companies and/or resources for their client’s events and day-to-day business. “It is important to the success and reputation of your brand, and we know how to create an entertainment package that is perfect for you,” says Anderson. They offer the full range of entertainment services, from booking music and celebrity acts to organizing and coordinating community outreach events. Their services expertly cover anything imaginable including celebrity booking services, large purchase consulting, bill pay services, concierge, and expense tracking. Champion Financials is licensed in all lines of insurance, specializing in risk management and business solutions to ensure their clients assets are protected. Champion Financials has been protecting local friends, neighbors and businesses against the inevitable bumps and bruises of life since 2011. As an independent broker, they combine products provided by the most respected insurance providers into a custom package that meets your personal or business needs. Their services include Vehicle Insurance (auto, commercial auto, motorcycle, snowmobile, atv, rv, boat, jet ski), Life Insurance (term, whole, life, mortgage), Property Insurance (home, renters, condo, mobile home, business property), Business Insurance (general liability, professional liability, workers compensation, group health, Disability, bonds), Health Insurance (individual, long-term care, dental) and Speciality Insurance (identity theft, wedding insurance, personal umbrella, h flood, pet, travel, farm).
“At Champion Sports and Entertainment we create and coordinate the most impactful experience possible for your entertainment booking and production needs. Private event planning is among our most utilized services. Entertainment is crafted to your custom needs by our innovative and experienced staff ”. 16 16
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125 S. Estes Drive, Ste. 9672 Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27515 919.599.1997 www.ChampionSE.com www.ChampionFinancialsNC.com
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Thelma Luckey
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By Terry L. Watson Photos by Mykel Media Company
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helma Luckey of Salisbury, N.C. knows something about people, service, and good food. She is the owner and operator of Thelma’s Down Home Cooking, located at 1935 Jake Alexander Boulevard in Salisbury. On April 15th, she opened a second location in Mooresville, N.C. because her cooking had drawn so many from Mooresville and Statesville to the Salisbury location. Luckey has always called Salisbury home. After graduating from West Rowan High School, she attended Salisbury Business College before enlisting in the United States Army and served for 21 and 1/2 years as a Staff Sergeant and Unit Clerk. After retiring from the army, she returned home to a passion that she learned as a child. “My mother taught me how to cook,” says Luckey. Anything else she needed to know, she learned on her own. With time and grace, she opened her first restaurant inside the Salisbury Mall in August of 2009. The response was very positive and exciting. Seven years later she moved to the outside of the mall into a much larger space. Each and every Tuesday, Thelma’s provides veterans with free coffee and donuts at the Frontier Coffee Shop located inside her restaurant. For the previous two years she has fed nearly 500-700 veterans during her Veterans Appreciation Dinner which takes place during December. Her obvious love and compassion to help and serve others is what gives her restaurant a down home feeling. Thelma’s menu includes her famous Dipped Chicken, dipped in her signature sauce, Country Style Pork Chops, Meat Loaf, Chicken and Dumplings, Stew Beef, Chicken and Waffles, Beef Livers, Seafood, and much more. She even offers a buffet at her Salisbury location on Sunday. h
Thelma’s Down Home Cooking 1935 Jake Alexander Boulevard Salisbury - 704-638-4396 247 E. Plaza Drive Mooresville - 704-799-0004
www.thelmasdownhomecooking.com Charlotte - May/June - 2016 Charlotte - May/June - 2016
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Toraine Lee The 7-0-4 Plan
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By Tawanda Blake Photos by Photography & Moore www.photographyandmoore.com
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oraine Lee, Founder of the 7-0-4 Plan, decided to create a unique social network/platform (www.the704planmovement.com) solely for entrepreneurs of minority. Lee believes that his model will help with economics, networking, job growth, as well as brawny partnerships within the Charlotte area. By promoting diversity (assortment), Lee insists that the platform will function as a gateway for business owners that don’t have the education or resources to help their conglomerates flourish. Lee researched for years before developing the plan. He says that this is the prime opportunity to put his strategy into action. How did you come up with the concept for the 7-0-4 Plan? Causing a catalyst for discussion among business leaders, Bob Johnson, former owner of the Charlotte Bobcats (now the Charlotte Hornets) noted to 200 local black business people at the Westin Hotel, “Charlotte is a very, how would I call it, close knit, arrogant, sometimes incestuous town...” . After reading the aforementioned article in the Charlotte Observer on May 2, 2010 discussing the lack of a robust African -American business community, the 7-0-4 Plan became my brainchild. An extensive research was conducted to understand the link between entrepreneurship and economic growth, the role of entrepreneurship education, identification of entrepreneurial traits and examination of different teaching methods. Research was done through different components and now reflects my vision of how to build a diverse business community. How long did it take you to get the plan in action? Do you have any supporters or backers? The 7-0-4 Plan vision was birthed on May 2, 2010 and became fruition July 2015. The movement has multiple supporters, including The Empowerment Center. Do you have any experience in business development or economics? My experience in the related fields are self-taught. What do you hope to achieve with your plan or theory? The 7-0-4 Plan hopes to be the revolutionary campaign to promote diversity and inclusiveness in the Charlotte, North Carolina business community. The movement is positioning itself as an initiative for growing minority businesses in the local community. The cause looks to expand beyond some of the ideas of old grass-roots methodologies by utilizing an online presence with emphasis on social platforms and a social network exclusive to supporters to complement its innovative ideas to facilitate growth. The program’s purpose also looks to expand to enrich the lives and future of our youth by leveraging unconventional ideas. The mission is to establish its presence as a trendsetting social media campaign designed to build support for a diverse business community via an infrastructure around minority entrepreneurs.
What are people saying about the plan? The community-at-large is saying it’s a must needed plan in the business community. Citizens are saying it must be endorsed and carried by the right people to bring it to full fruition. What impact do you think the plan will have in the demographic of 18-55 years of age? I see the plan impacting the populace as a whole by providing the community access to a powerful blend of intensive training, counseling, financial guidance, peer coaching, and networking – all focused on assisting minority entrepreneurs build strong community and corporate partnerships that support the revitalization of Charlotte, North Carolina. How will the 7-0-4 Plan affect the economy? The 7-0-4 Plan’s aim is to develop citywide resources and bring renewed economic growth and vitality through urban entrepreneurship. The movement seeks to impact locally on a worldwide basis; putting the city on the fast track to explosive job growth and increased tax revenue base. What can we expect from you in the next 5 years? Within the next 5 years, the community-at-large can expect The 7-0-4 Plan Chronicles to launch. It will be a blog written by a team of professional writers, profiling minority businesspeople living in urban communities across the Charlotte, NC metropolitan area. This blog will get more in depth about the lives and how diverse the Charlotte area has become, showcasing minority business owners around the city. Also, the 7-0-4 Plan will transition into a nonprofit organization advocating minority business growth and developing novice entrepreneurs through advocacy, education, research and service. The movement will support and promote minority business growth through peer directed and operated services, advocacy, economic development and participation in minority business policy design. I will continue with my walk in life as my purpose continues to manifest by representing my entrepreneurial spirit by way of being a blogger, author, consultant, and speaker and coach who’s sharing my purpose in life. h You can follow Toraine Lee and his extrospection at: www.facebook.com/The704Plan www.instagram.com/704Plan
Did you do a trial run of the plan? Have you had success? I have had an opportunity to run a trial run – from July 2015 to October 2015. I’ve had brief success by way of social media, though I now seek to share the 7-0-4 Plan’s ideas and concepts along with attracting advocates to continue promoting the campaign. The most important issue is to attract activists that see our vision and are eager to support this initiative. The cause is seeking advocates to endorse this movement and to champion the project to its full potential. Charlotte Charlotte- -May/June May/June- -2016 2016
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By Terry L. Watson Photos by Jay Ancrum ay Ancrum of Charlotte says it very hard to put his life into a box. He describes himself as someone who likes to take on many challenges and try different things. He is also a hard worker who puts God first in all of his endeavors. Even though he is a pastor, Ancrum is not big on titles, instead he strives to change the mindset of people who have a stereotypes of pastors.
His ministry is Church Untraditional, however his personal ministry is Jay Ancrum Ministries. Previously the church was called Time of Deliverance Apostolic Church until Ancrum says God revamped it and changed its focus to helping people overcome their struggles. “We appeal more to the millennial generation which shows, but never compromises. We change things up a little so that people will see Jesus not tradition,” he says. His personal ministry came about when he began to conduct outreaches. He was able to reached those in his community as he traveled as an evangelist and wrote several books during this time. All of his life Ancrum knew that he had a calling to preach. “I use to act like I was having church in my house while my parents were gone to work,” he says. He conducted youth conferences while in high school. As he struggled mentally and with school, he always ran back to the church for refuge. “It was the only place for me to find peace through all of the pain I was enduring with self esteem issues,” he says. He started preaching at the age of 12 and then became a licensed and ordained minister at 18. Soon after that he became an assistant pastor at 19. Things transpired and Ancrum was placed at a ministry where he worked with youth until he began Time of Deliverance Apostolic Church. He says he will never forget the expressions on the faces of others he ministered to when he first began. “I made sure that everything I did was God led. It had to be impactful. I wanted to make sure that no one I ministered to left feeling the same as they did before arriving,” he says. “That’s the most impactful thing of what I do. It shows that my works are not in vain”. Ancrum’s message encourages individuals to look into their future and declare what shall come. “The bible says, ‘we have not because we ask not’. That should give us courage to speak positive outcomes,” states Ancrum. He recently completed a documentary titled “Many Faces of a Challenge” which shows how people have gone through tragedies in their youth and have carried them into their adult life. He says individuals have either healed from it or are still battling with the pain of it. He is putting together a tour for it be available at different churches, study groups, etc. He is also am working on a movie titled “My Name Is Lust” which talks about how powerful and damaging the spirit of lust is. h
Jay Ancrum Ministries www.jayancrumministries.org pastorjay22@gmail.com 980-272-8632
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Antonio Tolson
From a Different Cloth, LLC
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By Terry L. Watson Photos by Mykel Media Company, LLC
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ntonio Tolson is a native of Washington, D.C. and the youngest and only boy of his parents. He moved to Charlotte N.C. in June of 2013, and married Tonya, the person who had encouraged and supported his dreams for so long. As his life began to evolve so did his interest the welfare of others in and around his community.
After seeing a family member battle cancer and witness first hand the rampage the disease can inflict on someone’s overall mind and body, it is important for him to use his platform to raise awareness and funds and help others who may be afflicted also. Tolson is inspired by those who are willing to press forward and fulfill their life’s’ destiny. He believes that is everyone’s obligation to help others. He is only doing what others have provided him with and believes that he wouldn’t be where he is today without the help of others. He is also inspired by Eddie Love, CPC who has encouraged and pushed him to do
He is the founder of Women Empowermenta organization that focuses on giving women relationship advice and guidance that will help them to gain self-confidence and work towards meaningful and healthy relationships with themselves and others. Antonio also leads a mentoring group whose goal is to help at-risk youth realize their potential and move toward goal setting by providing them with tools that will help them be successful in the future. Additionally, he has launched a campaign geared towards Breast Cancer Awareness, after a family member was diagnosed. His passion is very strong about this cause, so much so that he has decided to host a gala beginning this year, and every year to follow that will raise money for Susan G. Komen Foundation and a honor cancer survivors. This years gala, Harlem Nights For The Cure, is planned for August 13th. To no surprise being that he holds a degree in Psychology and is currently working on a degree in Organizational Security and Management, Tolson felt the need to do more. Tolson’s organization, From A Different Cloth, began after having a conversation with a good friend. “I was discussing with them about some of the powerful men that I have watched over the years, such as Steve Harvey and Eric Thomas to just name a few. I loved how they impacted people in various ways. I was already speaking, giving advice and helping people get to their true selves in my circle, so I decided to pursue a degree and help people empower themselves,” says Tolson. Tolson enjoys being able to reach women on a personal level. “I show them they are worthy enough to receive the love that is waiting for them. If they are in a current situation that seems to be difficult or detrimental, I try to give them the encouragement to work through their difficulties. This can include showing them a way out,” he says. On the mentoring side, Tolson finds enjoyment in mentoring young men by providing them with personal advice and guidance. By being transparent, he hopes it helps to prevent them from making some of the same mistakes he has made in life.
more. “Whenever there is an opportunity, Eddie makes sure I have a great role in it. He has and continues to give me great advice on how to improve for not only myself, but for my brand as well. Tolson plans to release a book in June 2016 titled, ‘Inner to Outer: Ways To Discover And Love Yourself So You Can Love Others’. He is planning to conduct more speaking engagements and relationship panels. h
Antonio Tolson From A Different Cloth www.fromadifferentcloth.com 704-323-0912 Charlotte Charlotte- May/June - May/June- 2016 - 2016
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Cutest Baby huami
M A G A Z I N E
Olivia Jayleigh Crawley The daughter of Andrew and Ashleigh Crawley Photos by Still Shots Photography
To submit photographs into the Huami Magazine Cutest Baby Photo Contest, send a detailed email to mykelmedia@yahoo.com 26
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Charlotte - May/June - 2016
Cheryl Clayton
Waters
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By Terry L. Watson Photos by Mykel Media Company
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Cheryl Clayton Waters is a native of Durham, NC, and a graduate of both WinstonSalem State University and North Carolina Central University. Waters has utilized her background in Business Administration and Elementary Education, to expand her global platform in touching the lives of many. Waters career as a professional Educator spans well over the course of 20 years. In addition to her service in public education, she wears many other hats which include being a consultant, a wife, mother, aunt, sister, daughter, friend, confidant and visionary. Always having the desire to become a writer, she realized that many of her early writings usually never went beyond the pages of her personal journals. Determined to see the reality of her dream, Waters, published her first novel, UNPREDICTABLE, in 2013 which garnered rave reviews. This prompted her to write and publish her second novel UNPREDICTABLE 2: The Sequel in 2015. As a connoisseur of life, Waters has worked tirelessly to create stories to inspire individuals to persevere through life’s obstacles to achieve success. Waters creates original stories which resonate with individuals, experiencing real life situations. She tells stories that could easily embody the life of ordinary people, venturing through the ups and downs of a changing world. Her characters speak vividly with true convictions surrounding their personal situations, to convey their place within the larger realm of life. Waters consistently delves into the essence of identifying the epiphany, within each of her characters, to inspire and awaken a renewed spirit of hope and new beginnings for her readers.
Copies of Cheryl Clayton Waters novels are pictured above and below Unpredictable 1 and Unpredictable 2
Waters often finds herself lending a voice of reasoning to help others navigate through life. She oftentimes capitalizes on her world travels and experiences, to convey a sense of universal appeal with her literary audience, while creating a back drop for her novels. Waters says what she loves most about writing is the platform that if provides for her to not only help and encourage others, but to be very creative and transcend time and place. She adds that writing can also be very therapeutic. Continued on page 30 Charlotte - May/June - 2016
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My parents instilled core values and taught me life lessons that has sustained me to this day, She is inspired by other successful writers as well as individuals that operate in their gifts without limitations. “I am very moved by individuals who fiercely going after their dreams without fear or any inhibitions,” she says. She is also inspired by realness, loyalty, confidence and positivity from others. God and her parents have impacted her life the most, mainly because they have always been constant. “My parents instilled core values and taught me life lessons that has sustained me to this day,” she says. Team Unpredictable has impacted my business the most. “Team Unpredictable represents my many supporters. These are the people that purchase my novels and help me market them”. Waters offers a bit of advice to others who may follow in her footsteps. She says that whenever someone tells her they want to write a book, she encourages them to do so. “I would encourage everyone to follow their dreams whole heartedly without fear of failure. Don’t let the fear of possible rejection or the negative words of naysayers deter you from doing or being whatever it is that you want in life. Allow prayer to replace fear if it arises,” she says. Moving forward Waters hopes to continue to use writing as a platform to speak to the many challenges and triumphs in life. She plans to transition her novels into stage plays and movies that everyone can enjoy and gain insight. “With God leading and guiding me, the realm of possibilities for my novels are endless,” she says. Be sure to check out Waters latest novel as it will certainly entertain, while navigating its reader through some familiar and some not so familiar avenues. Her movement can be supported by purchasing a copy of both her novels on sale now at Amazon.com, Barnes and Nobles, OutskirtsPress.com, Xlibris.com, and other book retailers worldwide. h
Cheryl Clayton Waters www.cherylclaytonwaters.com Facebook: UNPREDICTABLECherylClaytonWaters Twitter: @DDIAMONDDIVA Instagram: apharoahsqueen 30
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Charlotte - May/June - 2016
Charlotte - May/June - 2016
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Cassandra Faulk Cassandra’s Alterations, LLC
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Charlotte - May/June - 2016
By Terry L. Watson Photos by Todd Youngblood Photography
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assandra Faulk was born and raised in Lumberton, North Carolina. Though she was very active in high school and in the community, most of her spare time was spent at the sewing machine. When most of the other girls her age were playing with dolls and tea sets, Faulk was sewing, making her very first dress at the age of ten. Her very first job was that of a seamstress’ helper at the Finest Men’s Clothier in Lumberton. There she gained experience and the know how to alter clothes. After graduating from high school, she moved to Charlotte in 1975 to attend King’s College, graduating in 1976 with a diploma in Fashion Merchandising. After many years in the corporate arena, Cassandra decided to turn her passion into business in the Charlotte area. Along with a passion for alterations, she enjoys serving others. Working with brides and altering bridal gowns, and bridesmaid dresses, led her to be more involved with the wedding industry. “About 12 years ago, I started taking in alterations in my home. Things started going so well that I rented a space in the building that I worked in,”she says. She had been working full time with a property management company and worked her alterations business on a part time basis in that location for three years. She found another location in north Charlotte and opened a facility, working both locations on a part time basis. In 2012, she resigned and dove into her business full time at the second location. After three years of growing the business at the second location, the building was destroyed by an electrical fire. Now Faulk sits in uptown Charlotte, partnering with Ole Mason Jar, a men’s clothing showroom that proudly markets made in the USA items. Cassandra’s Alterations represents one of the finest alteration services in the Charlotte area, upholding the highest standards of business and personal ethics. When you choose Cassandra’s Alterations, Faulk says you are choosing experts who are dedicated to providing extraordinary services and customer relations. “We alter, repair and resize clothing for men, women, and children. Altering and custom fitting formal wear is one of our specialties,” she says. Continued on next page
“About 12 years ago, I started taking in alterations in my home. Things started going so well that I rented a space in the building that I worked in”.
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Along with a passion for alterations, Faulk enjoys serving others. “I love working in my gift and seeing a satisfied customer, especially with my brides. I truly enjoy seeing the excitement they show when they try on their dresses. I also love taking a customer’s idea and making it a reality, especially when they’ve been told it can’t be done,” she states. Faulk also offers a service called ‘Wedding Day Service’ which caters to brides on their special day by steaming and delivering the dress to the venue and even helping to dress them. This service is very helpful, especially if the bride has a corset back dress. “I like to say that I lace a perfect corset,” she boasts. Faulk strives to educate young girls by offering sewing classes. Giving back is very important to her as well, and for the past three years she has provided services to an organization that works with terminally ill children by providing alterations for their annual prom. This gives Faulk an opportunity to appreciate the gifts and blessing bestowed upon her as she finds joy with working with the kids and their families.
“I would tell anyone starting a business to be ready for some long hours. It takes a lot of hard work and perserverence. Stay in faith and believe in yourself ”.
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Owning and operating a business is a great responsibility Faulk declares. “I would tell anyone starting a business to be ready for some long hours. It takes a lot of hard work and perserverence. Stay in faith and believe in yourself. There will be days when it seems like it’s not worth the effort. Those are the times when you must dig in and hold on,” she says. When her business was literally in ashes she held on in faith, knowing that God would see her through. Before the fire at her previous location, things were in order for her current location to be the second location. Things work out just as they are suppose to and right now Faulk has to focus on building her clientele in a totally different area of Charlotte and provide the signature service that many have come to expect and enjoy. h
Charlotte - May/June - 2016
Cassandra’s Alterations 148 Brevard Court Charlotte , NC 28202 (704) 208-4171 www.cassandras.org
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As the Sun begins to shine its rays across our faces this summer we will be ready! Whether you’re headed on a beach vacay or headed to your local pool this summer, these summer beauty essentials will keep you looking FLAWLESS all Summer Sixteen!
Vitamin C Protection What It Is
Light textured, Vitamin C enriched daily moisturizer provides broad spectrum protection against harmful UV rays. Helps brighten and repair skin for a fresher,firmer, more vibrant complexion. Paraben-free.
What’s Inside
Beauty Experts, Marquel and Marquis Bohannon
Bovanti Cosmetics & Spa 219 Four Seasons Town Center Greensboro, NC 27407 Phone: 336-299-0109 Northlake Mall Charlotte, NC 704-921-9190 Facebook: Facebook.com/bovanti Twitter: @bovanti Instagram: @bovanti bovanti.com Upcoming Make Up Class Saturday, June 4th - Greensboro Saturday, June 18th - Charlotte To Register Please Call 336-299-0109 or 704-921-9190
Broad Spectrum SPF protects against damage from UVA and UVB exposure. Vitamin C brightens skin, enhances collagen production, helps strengthen skin’s own repair mechanisms, reduces hyperpigmentation for a more even skin tone, and provides unsurpassed antioxidant protection against free radical damage.
How To Use
AM. After cleansing, apply over entire face, avoiding the eye area.
Foundation Stick Bovanti’s Foundation Stick has SPF 15 in it! This is your new healthy foundation.
What It Is
Creamy, conditioning stick foundation with buildable coverage and broad-spectrum sun protection. Evens tone and diminishes the appearance of imperfections to help create a flawless complexion. Hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, paraben-free.
What’s Inside
Vitamins A, C & E are antioxidant vitamins that help to protect cells from free radical damage. Aloe helps to soothe and condition skin.
How To Use
Lightly stroke foundation stick down center of nose, cheeks, chin and forehead. Blend using finger tips, brush or sponge. 36
Bronzer Strokes Highlight Beauty Star Of The Month
Use our one-step brush on shimmer, to go and glow! Dust on face or body for some fashion, sparkle, and shine! No more powder spills! Want that highlight where the sun kisses the face? Try out our new colors from Bovanti that will highlight your cheeks, down the bridge of the nose and across the forehead with a little shimmer giving you a sun kissed glow!
Vitamin C Lip Treatment What It Is
Brightening Vitamin C envelopes a core of conditioning Vitamin E. Smoothes, soothes and helps prevent dryness and chapping. Paraben-free.
What’s Inside
Jojoba & Avocado Oils lubricate and smoothe. Vitamin E (the core) smoothes and heals. Vitamin C enhances antioxidant protection.
How To Use
Apply directly onto center of lips, blending outwards, or use a lip brush for more precise application.
Liquid Lipstick Matte Trying to minimize the amount of makeup you’re taking to the beach? This lip stain is your go-to product! The color is so pretty, and it’s long lasting. 15 hours or more!
Courtney Brown I started my Bovanti journey in June of 2010. I chose Bovanti as my work place because I have always had a passion for beauty as well as a passion for empowering other women. Working at Bovanti has taught me great leadership skills and also how to work with others. I fell in love with Bovanti because it is a black owned business, and the level of professionalism amazed me. I’ve loved Bovanti products since I was a teen in high school, so I knew that the product was great before I was hired. In order to sell the product you must first believe in the product I’m definitely a believer when it comes to Bovanti. The products are natural and they cater to women of color. My favorite Bovanti products definitely are the Hydrating Skincare System. It helps to keep the skin hydrated, nourished, and ageless. I have conquered so much being a Bovanti Beauty Star.
Recently, I received the Mega Super Star award for my continuous dedication and outstanding sales. Glides on as a gloss and dries Bovanti has taught me to never quit matte making your lip color last all and that the sky is the limit. I have summer long! One quick swipe of touched so many lives and have built these colors will take you from the relationships with my customers. That beach to your friend’s BBQ! We is what being a Bovanti “Mega Star” is dare you to Eat, Drink, & Kiss! all about. Charlotte - May/June - 2016 HuamiMagazine.com 37
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