Hosted first HBCU Esports and Gaming Week and HBCU high school esports camp
Collaborations: Discovery Place Science, Hornets Venom GT NBA 2K Team and the YMCA
Trifecta featured on ABC, TheGrio, NBC, and CBS, among others
Partnerships: Riot Games (League of Legends) and Activation Blizzard (Call of Duty)
Johnson C. Smith University’s Esports and Gaming Trifecta is the first of its kind at a Historically Black College or University (HBCU). Boasting a high-ranking club team, Esports and Gaming Management minor, and state-of-the-art gaming lab, JCSU’s Esports and Gaming Trifecta is perfect for students interested in a career in gaming.
The Esports and Gaming industry is projected to reach a valuation of more than $10 million by 2032. Get prepared for a future career in the industry at Johnson C. Smith University!
For more information on the Esports and Gaming Trifecta, contact jcash@jcsu.edu or blwilliams@jcsu.edu.
God Doesn’t Expect For You To Do it All
A
Letter From The Editor
There Are No If, Ands, Or Buts About It!
A Letter from the Editor
Regardless of what anyone else says, I am a natural introvert. Amazingly, I publish a magazine and talk to people, many of who are strangers, and yet I find comfort in not saying anything. However, God often creates scenarios that push me out of my comfort zone. Whether He calls for me to speak to a group of young minds or even a large audience, with obedience, I must meet the assignment. I appreciate each opportunity as they have opened my mind to accepting the assistance for my destiny.
What if tomorrow didn’t arrive? All of your plans, hopes and dreams wouldn’t have a street to park on. What if everything that you decided to put off until tomorrow never happened? There would be no reason to save for a rainy day, and you could spare someone the trouble of making promises. What if your last opportunity seemingly expired today? What would you do?
Ask anyone who really knows me, and they will tell you that I am someone who tries to do a lot on my own. I don’t know why; maybe it has something to do with the way my brain is programmed. Yet, with managing the assignment of the company I run, God has frequently reminded me that He doesn’t expect me to do it all by myself.
I’ve been told that I often seem like I do too much. Honestly, I feel like I am not doing enough and I’m a firm believer in knowing that God wouldn’t put anything on me that I couldn’t handle. I sometimes wonder how life would be if I chose to sit idle and accept what it presented to me. I have found that to be very boring. In my opinion, opportunity is a blessing that isn’t afforded to everyone. A challenge to me is an adventure. What is the worst that can happen? If I do nothing, I fail, and if I try I don’t, but instead learn something new about myself. Relinquish your pride and in return acquire life.
While the capability of what I can do is extensive, the limits of where I am able to take the messages and voices of my community are far out of my reach. A community is only as strong as the input and participation that each member offers. The beauty in the message that God intends to bring forth is a unifying one, and I only hope that I do my part to persuade and inspire others in their journey.
The best advice ever given to me happened when someone told me to make my tomorrow happen today. In doing so I have pressed my way through doors with a key that only hope provided. I have also learned the difference between what God blesses me with and what life can burden me with as well. I compare it to knowing when to be confident and when to be quiet, because someone may get it confused with being arrogant.
God has planted gifts in all of us. My gifts are mine, and whenever I am able to cross paths with others who share a similar passion, I receive that as God expects more to be done. If you see me working alone, don’t mnd me, just know that I am actually trying to find the next opportunity to connect my gifts with others.
Make you tomorrow happen today, but most importantly make it count. Life is but a whisper and we must put ourselves in a position to hear what it is telling us.
Terry L. Watson
Terry L. Watson Editor/Founder
www.huamimagazine.com
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General Inquiries
terry.editor@gmail.com (336)340-7844
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Mykel Media Company LLC Greensboro, NC 2024 All Rights Reserved
Charlotte, NC
Charlotte, NC How The Urbies Began UNC-Charlotte
Duke Energy and JCSU
Johnson C. Smith University
It is impossible to quantify the love of a Caregiver. Learn more about my experience.. Browns Summit, NC
He is Huami Magazine’s Cutest Baby. Introducing one beautiful baby. He name is Silas Cade Gibson.
Recognizing Great Urban Design in Charlotte: How the Urbies Began
Information provided by UNC-Charlotte Online
Recognizing outstanding metropolitan developments and projects is the impetus for the annual Urban Design Awards, presented by the city of Charlotte in partnership with UNC Charlotte’s School of Architecture.
“Cities are like quilts. Every square is a new opportunity for something good to happen,” said Deb Ryan, professor of architecture and urban design and one of three women who helped conceive the recognition, called the Urbies.
The most recent awards presentation recognized 12 Queen City projects from walkable neighborhoods and public spaces to urban architecture and streets.
The Urbies, the brainchild of Ryan, Monica Carney Holmes, deputy planning director for the city of Charlotte, and Mary Newsom, a longtime urban and suburban issues journalist for the Charlotte Observer who later served as director of urban policy initiatives for the UNC Charlotte Urban Institute.
During a three-decade career, Newsom authored a column in which she recognized the best in urban design and growth in Charlotte with “the Urbie.” Conversely, she dubbed lesser projects “roadkill,” illustrated by a dead possum. In 2020, Newsom gave her blessing to Holmes and Ryan to create the current iteration of the Urbies, co-sponsored by the city’s Urban Design Center and the Urban Design Program at UNC Charlotte.
As a Charlotte resident for 40 years, Ryan has witnessed the city’s growth and development. Through service on the Charlotte Mecklenburg Planning Commission, she weighed in on rezoning projects for dense and multiuse projects. She learned citizens had three main concerns: overcrowding in schools, traffic and impact on property values. The Urbies were a vehicle to balance these concerns with new opportunities.
“By highlighting award-winning projects, we could say, ‘Look there’s nothing to be afraid of,” Ryan said. “In fact, when it’s built, you’re going to love it. We want to shine a positive light on a different, more urban type of development and do it in a celebratory way without detracting from other forms of property development.”
For Ryan, cities should always be growing, otherwise urban planners would be out of a job.
“I think Charlotte is doing a lot right with the help of some really thoughtful developers,” she said. “It’s not perfect, there’s still room for improvement. But I’ve seen a lot of good things happen over the past few decades.”
A jury of urban designers, developers, administrators and park planners within Charlotte vote for the Urbie Award recipients. Ryan said up to two-thirds of the jury changes annually to keep perspectives fresh and varied. Jury members engage in spirited debate to achieve consensus about what makes “great” urban design.
Nominations are determined by the jury, but people can bring projects to its attention. Nominations have increased in recent years thanks to Will Linville ‘09, ’21 MUD, the current head of urban design for the city, who has focused on strengthening ties with the professional community in Charlotte.
Duke Energy Teaches JCSU Students About Professionalism and Career Development
Information provided by Johnson C. Smith University Online
For the second consecutive year, Duke Energy Corporation hosted a comprehensive Career Development & Professionalism Workshop aimed at empowering students with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to succeed in today’s competitive job market.
The event took place on Saturday, Nov. 2, in the James B. Duke Library where Duke Energy provided breakfast, lunch, and numerous giveaways. The POWER UP Bootcamp attracted a diverse group of more than 33 undergraduate students from various majors who were eager to enhance their career readiness and skills as well as develop other essential professional competencies.
The boot camp began with an insightful introduction to Duke Energy’s commitment to the university and hiring a diversity of talent.
Sharene Pierce, VP of Talent Acquisition and Chief Diversity & Inclusion Officer, spoke about the importance of professionalism and career planning, highlighting opportunities at Duke Energy . JCSU young professionals were introduced to key concepts, such as setting short- and long-term career goals, the value of selfassessment, and aligning personal strengths with professional opportunities.
Pierce emphasized the significance of staying adaptable in an evolving job market and encouraging students to be proactive in identifying career paths that match their interests and abilities.
One of the highlights of the micro-workshop was the session on professionalism in the workplace. This session focused on what it means to present oneself as a professional in various work environments, whether in corporate offices, nonprofit sectors, or entrepreneurial spaces. Topics discussed included effective communication, workplace etiquette, time management, and dressing appropriately for different business settings. Students were engaged through role-playing activities and discussions that allowed them to practice and understand the nuances of professional behavior in real-world scenarios. They even had the opportunity to take professional headshots.
Duke Energy professionals offered practical advice on crafting a compelling resumé that stands out to employers. They broke down key components of a strong resumé, highlighting the importance of tailoring it to specific job applications, emphasizing relevant experiences, and using action-oriented language to describe accomplishments.
Another essential component of the workshop was a discussion on networking and building professional relationships. Students were introduced to the power of networking as a tool for career advancement. Another session covered both in-person and online networking strategies, with a special focus on utilizing platforms like LinkedIn to connect with professionals in their field. Attendees learned how to create an effective LinkedIn profile, approach industry professionals, and maintain meaningful connections. The importance of following up after networking events or informational interviews was emphasized as a way to strengthen and sustain professional relationships.
The sessions ended with networking that featured over 25 Duke Energy employees including successful JCSU alumni from various departments. They were able to share their career journeys, challenges they overcame, and advice for current students. They underscored the importance of resilience, continuous learning, and taking advantage of internships and mentorship opportunities.
Overall, the Career Development & Professionalism Bootcamp provided JCSU students with valuable insights and practical tools to navigate the early stages of their career journey. It fostered a sense of empowerment and preparedness among the participants, equipping them with the confidence to pursue their professional aspirations with purpose and poise.
Special Thanks to Pierce, Crystal Marie McDaniels, and the countless Duke Energy volunteers who made this event a great success.
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Laresa
THOMPSON & BOYD
COMMUNICATIONS, LLC
By Terry L. Watson
Photos Provided by Todd Youngblood
When you think of someone who embodies joy, creativity, and a knack for connecting with people, Laresa Thompson undoubtedly comes to mind. She’s captured hearts with her infectious energy, love for storytelling, and dedication to shining a spotlight on organizations and businesses in her community through her business, Thompson and Boyd Communications, LLC (T&B).
T&B offers a variety of services such as media and public relations, on-camera and voiceover talent, media training, writing and more.
A true “Carolina” girl, Laresa Thompson was raised in Greensboro, NC, and earned a bachelor’s degree in journalism from North Carolina A&T State University. Throughout her career, Laresa has held a variety of roles, including serving as the Morning Co-Host at WCCB and as a Content Producer/Reporter for Neighborhood TV (NTV). Laresa also served as the spokesperson for Charlotte Amusement Park, Carowinds, and FORTUNE® 50 home improvement company Lowe’s. She’s also been featured in two Style Blueprint articles: “FACES of Charlotte” (2017) and “The Morning Routines of 11 Successful Charlotte Women“ (2017), and was recognized as one of the Top Women of Excellence by Radio One (2016).
For over 15 years, Laresa has enjoyed a career in the broadcast and communications industry. Her roots began in her hometown of Greensboro, NC at radio station, 102.1 JAMZ. She would later work at a local television station there, WFMY News 2, before working in Charlotte and working at WCNC-TV, a television station. Laresa would pause television and find her footing working in public relations and internal communications for several companies before returning to television. Leveraging the expertise she gained through years of experience across various businesses and organizations, she built her own brand, Thompson and Boyd Communications, LLC.
Always looking for unique ways of expressing her gift of communication, Laresa is also the owner of a popular yard sign business in the Charlotte and Greensboro areas, Yardy Cardy, LLC. Yardy Cardy provides customized lawn greetings and foam parties for residential and commercial clients.
Her passion for helping others has led her to take on many volunteer roles at various organizations, including Nations Ford Community Church, Rebuilding Together of the Carolinas, Dress for Success, the Battered Women’s Shelter, and Habitat for Humanity. She professes her love for the Charlotte community and continues to serve as an emcee or host for organizations with causes she is passionate about, including those with developmental and intellectual disabilities, as well as her alma mater.
Laresa shares that she is such a people person. She adds, “I always enjoy learning new things about people, a new store or restaurant, a company, whatever it may be. That curiosity is the reason I’m working in the field I’m in today. In many instances, when I am hired by a company, I am hired to represent them. To do that effectively, I must know who they are.”
Our were taught to go to college and get an education so you can get a good job and stay at that job until it’s time for you to parents retire... a way of thinking that was passed down to me.
Laresa credits her mother, Fannie Thompson, for having the most significant impact on her life. She says, “My parents divorced when I was very young, and my father died in a car crash a few years later when I was 11. That left my mother to raise three girls on her own, with the help of family, friends and church members. My mom was a schoolteacher, and she dedicated more than 30 years of her life to the classroom. While growing up, our parents were taught to go to college and get an education so you can get a good job and stay at that job until it’s time for you to retire… a way of thinking passed down to me. I don’t think there’s anything wrong with this mindset; however, I do believe there’s more to life, like owning your own business… that’s a good thing too. When I started my first business, my mom was concerned, as any parent should/would be. What happens if you don’t have any customers? How will you pay your bills? Those type of questions were real”, she laughs. “Today, it’s a different story and I know my mother sees what entrepreneurship offers and what I’m able to accomplish for my own company and not someone else’s.”
Being able to travel this journey with her mother makes it all worth it, Laresa says. “She is my number one cheerleader and has always encouraged and inspired me and reminded me of who I am and what I can achieve. She sent me a note via text message that read “Have you ever looked back at all of the things you’ve done? You should be proud of yourself”. To get a note like that from my mother lets me know that she understands it now. I often reference her note as a means to remind myself of all my achievements.”
When asked if there is anything that she would change about the way things have happened along her journey, Laresa says, “Honestly, I wouldn’t change anything. By doing so, it would mean that I wouldn’t be where I am or WHO I am today. I wouldn’t have learned so many lessons, even the ones I didn’t want to learn, but needed to go through.” Laresa says she’s glad she did have those challenging times. “You grow when you’re uncomfortable.”
Looking ahead, Laresa has plans to take her brands to higher heights. She also appreciates the opportunity to care for her mother and be there when she needs her.
Paige Jefferson Tiny Explorers Center
By Terry L. Watson
Provided by Paige Jefferson
Paige Jefferson of Indianapolis, IN, is an accomplished woman who wears a lot of hats. She is a daughter, sister, friend, godmother, and business owner, all rolled into one!
Born and raised in Indianapolis, Paige shares that family is everything to her. She attended Alcorn University and later transitioned to Ball State, where she earned her B.A. in Child Development. From there, Paige obtained her director’s credential, as well as a master’s certificate in teaching. She has been working professionally in early childhood education for 10 years and has owned her own facility, Tiny Explorers Center, for the last six years.
“Together, we are shaping a brighter future—one Tiny Explorer at a time”. Those words are the foundation upon which Tiny Explorers Center stands. Paige adds, “We provide a comprehensive early childhood education program that is broken down by age groups. These include infants and toddler, 2s program, preschool, and pre-K, as well as after-school and summer camp programs for school-age kids. We’re passionate about delivering high-quality education in Indianapolis and ensuring that each child is respected and encouraged to build meaningful connections with their peers and educators. Most importantly, we aim to create a nurturing environment where children can thrive socially, emotionally, and academically.”
The path that led to the opening of Tiny Explorers Center began in 2018. Paige always had a lifelong passion for children, even as a young girl. She was drawn to helping with kids, especially in church, whether in the nursery or during service. After working as a site director for an early learning program, Paige saw firsthand the specific needs of both children and families. That experience inspired her to create a program that would address those needs in a more personalized way. She says the turning point came when she became a godmother that same year. “I knew I wanted my goddaughter to be in a high-quality program before starting kindergarten, and that’s when I realized it was the perfect time to bring my vision to life. Inside my parent’s garage, I hosted an open house and was blown away by the number of families who signed up. It was way more than I ever envisioned. It got so busy that my mom quit her job to help me. With the growing number of children and the state’s ratio requirements, I quickly had to find a new space to accommodate everyone.”
Photos
Paige says that what she loves most about what she does is seeing the pure joy on the kiddo’s face every time she walks into a room. “I like to call myself the “child whisperer” because I’ve always had a special connection with children. They light up when I’m around, and it fills me with so much happiness. My passion for children runs deep, and it’s so important to me to make a lasting impact on their lives. It’s not just about teaching; it’s about helping them grow, building their confidence, and making sure they feel seen and supported. When I hear stories of our graduates excelling in school, I feel a deep sense of pride, knowing we played a part in their journey. It’s all about giving them a strong foundation so they can succeed, both now and in the future.”
Paige is a Christian and professes her love and belief in God. She adds that she is a strong believer, and her faith is what keeps her grounded. “I am inspired by my belief that this is my calling, the purpose God has placed in my heart. I feel that I’m here to teach, nourish, and love children, which motivates me daily. Part of that is creating an enriching learning environment that makes growth and development exciting for them. Knowing that I’m helping shape their futures while fulfilling my purpose inspires me to keep pushing forward, always striving to make an impact on the next generation. It’s what gives me the energy and joy to keep going, no matter what challenges come my way,” she says.
Building her brand has come with a few obstacles. That is quite understandable, and without a few challenges along the way, one’s ability to persevere and overcome may not be realized. One such challenge, Paige says, was finding staff members who shared her passion for early childhood education. It took time and trial and error, but she has built her dream team after five years of navigating those challenges. “This wasn’t just about filling roles; it was about finding people who truly believe in our mission and are committed to providing consistent, high-quality care. Having a team that’s aligned with our vision creates stability for the children and establishes trust with families. It also shows that you can find the right people who help build something meaningful and lasting with patience and persistence.”
For those who may follow in her footsteps, Paige offers some sound advice. “Take the risk! There’s no comfort in growth, but you won’t know what you’re capable of until you take that leap. Yes, you might fall, but so what? You get back up, learn from your mistakes, pivot, and try again. Every fall is a chance to grow stronger and wiser. There’s no limit to how many times you can start over as long as you never quit. The key is to never stay stuck— always have a willingness to adapt, learn, and keep moving forward. You’ve got this; just keep moving forward,” she says.
Moving forward, Paige says she plans to expand Tiny Explorers by adding more locations, whether through additional homes or a larger building. She also plans to continue to provide quality care to more families. She also has a vision of starting a non-profit that offers in-house services for children, such as occupational therapy, language therapy, and nurse practitioner support. By doing so, she plans to create a proactive environment where children can get the services they need early on, setting them up for greater success when they start school. “It’s all about going beyond traditional care to truly support each child’s development,” she says.
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LOUV & DEZ
Lifestyle International Realty, a fast-growing and innovative real estate brokerage, proudly announces the grand opening of its new office in the heart of Greensboro, located at 808 Summit Ave. This expansion into the Triad region represents a key milestone in the company’s ongoing growth and commitment to better serve the Greensboro community.
The public and media were invited to attend the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony held on November 1, 2024 at their new office. Immediately following, there was Grand Opening Celebration at The Quarter, 112 W Lewis St, Greensboro, NC. Attendees had the opportunity to meet the Lifestyle International Realty team, tour the office, and discover how the company is poised to revolutionize the real estate experience in the Triad region.
Leadership and Vision
The Greensboro office is led by a team of seasoned real estate professionals including CEO George Canciobello, Managing Partner Shawn Gerald, Managing Partner Wrenchel Stokes, Luxury Home Staging Specialist Dez Gerald, and Managing Partner Louv Ford. The company is committed to delivering exceptional real estate services and fostering meaningful community connections.
“We are incredibly excited to establish a presence in Greensboro,” said George Canciobello, CEO of Lifestyle International Realty. “Our team is passionate about helping individuals and families achieve their real estate dreams, and we look forward to contributing to the growth and prosperity of this wonderful community.”
More Than Just Real Estate
Lifestyle International Realty is not just a real estate brokerage; it is a lifestyle brand built on integrity, innovation, family, and community engagement. The company provides personalized service, expert guidance, and unwavering support throughout every client’s real estate journey.
Calling All Agents
Lifestyle International Realty is actively seeking passionate agents who want to grow in the industry and make a positive impact in the community. Managing Partner Shawn Gerald added, “We are looking for individuals who are eager to learn, dedicated to honing their skills, and committed to giving back to the community. We are here to dominate the real estate market.”
About Lifestyle International Realty
Lifestyle International Realty is a full-service real estate brokerage specializing in both residential and commercial properties. With a focus on integrity, innovation, and community engagement, the company is dedicated to helping clients achieve their real estate goals while living their best lives. At Lifestyle International Realty, it’s not just business—it’s a Lifestyle.
Information and Photos Provided by Louv Ford
Managing Partner
Lifestyle International Realty Liaison@direalestatestaging.com 704-997-9539
DEZ GERALD, LHS, ASP
Meet Dez Gerald, your unparalleled business partner. With over 20+ years of experience and a Luxury Home Staging Specialist, recipient of the Top Individual Stager Award by the International Association of Home Staging Professionals and several Realtor Awards, Dez offers a level of expertise unmatched in the industry. She caters to a diverse clientele, including investors, and luxury buyers & sellers in various industries. Beyond her impressive track record, Dez is passionate about sustainability, infusing non-toxic living and sustainable products into her services, ensuring your well-being.
Dez’s global vision extends to the African Development Movement, where she’s marketing a 65,000-acre development in Ghana to address the country’s housing deficit and 400+ listings throughout Ghana. She is Partnered with the Top Real Estate Company in Ghana, E. Wells Realty & Consultancy and she’s changing lives on an international scale. Trust Dez Gerald of DI Real Estate & Staging, a Lifestyle International Realty Partner to turn your real estate dreams into a reality.
Contact her today and experience the difference passion, expertise, care and commitment can make in your real estate journey!
LOUV FORD
Louv (Love) Ford is a real estate professional with a proven track record of success in representing buyers, sellers, and investors. She is skilled at networking and building relationships, which allows her to open the line of communication between all parties involved in a real estate transaction. She is also experienced in managing projects and teams, which ensures that all aspects of a transaction are handled efficiently and effectively.
In her previous roles at Washington Mutual, Dun & Bradstreet, Wells Fargo, First Horizon, and a variety of small businesses, she has received multiple awards for her sales performance and her ability to build business credibility and creditworthiness. She is very confident that she can use her skills and experience to help you achieve your real estate goals.
Managing Partner Lifestyle International Realty Liaison@direalestatestaging.com 336-471-4847
Learn More About My Experience of Being A Caregiver For My Mother
By Terry L. Watson
CHAPTER SEVEN: The Measurement of Love for Mom
One of the hardest things I have experienced while caring for my mother was accepting the fact that she would forever be totally dependent on the care and assistance of others. For all of my life, I had been used to seeing her go, go, and go, and just like that, things changed. One Sunday morning, I stopped by my mother’s home to eat dinner, and the following day, I got a call that she had suffered a stroke. Things changed so fast.
Over the past eight years, I have slowly and stubbornly adapted to meeting my mother exactly where she is. Any success in my ability to adapt to these changes has been connected to my ability to find hope in her—I mean, our situation. Any opportunity that I have to make her smile, I have taken advantage of it, whether it be by saying something silly or reminding her of the things that I know she loves to hear. Seeing and feeling the joy in her smile has been therapeutic for me and her, I do believe.
For anyone who has experienced having a loved one suffer a stroke, one that was debilitating and disabling, you may understand the bucket of emotions that accompany it. My first response was to make life as normal as possible for my mother. I soon realized that would be mission impossible. My advice to others who may find themselves in this place is always to strive to make the most of each situation every day. On some days, my mother could pronounce her words more clearly than the day before. On other days, she seemed so drained from the effects of her brain injury that all she could do was rest. Regardless of what was presented, I had to find a way to prepare my mind to handle it. And I did.
When you truly love someone, the amount is impossible to quantify. It’s just love. My love for my mother is absolutely unconditional, and I am committed to being there for her needs for the rest of our days together. I have also found resolve in learning that she is really aware of my commitment to serving her, and she lets me know in her own way of appreciation.
I have been told that it’s not often that you find a man who cares for his mother as I do as a Caregiver. To be honest, I am surprised to learn that more are not showing up. I have a ton of memories, some great ones, of my mother before she suffered her stroke. However, the memories I have created while caring for her after the stroke are so much more meaningful. God has blessed me to be able to do something for someone that I feel like I owe the world to, and yet, they have never asked for anything in return. That is love. h
I decided to share my experience as a full-time caregiver for my mother to consult, console, and inform other families who may be going through a similar situation. As a son, caring for my mother never feels like work; if so, it is a labor of love. Please continue to follow this message, Becoming A Caregiver, in Huami Magazine. I hope that sharing my experience will help others. From one caregiver to the next, God Bless You!
Huami Magazine Community Awards 2025
Charlotte Marriott Center City - Charlotte, NC
We are coming to the Queen City of Charlotte, NC.
Please mark your calendars for June 7th, 2025, as the Huami Magazine Community Awards will take place at the Charlotte Marriott City Center. Following up on our first gala of 2023, we are excited for the opportunity to present Black Excellence from various parts of the Huami Magazine network, which covers more than 23 states around the country.
Community Leaders, Business Leaders, and NonProfit Organizations will be honored and recognized for the great work they have done and continue to do in their respective communities. There will also be some great speakers, good food, and entertainment. This a formal, black tie event, and one that you don’t want to miss.
The evening will begin with a Red Carpet Reception at 5:30 pm. The Gala Reception will start at 6:30pm
For more information, please call 336-340-7844. Seating is limited and group packages are available. Tickets are on sale and can be purchased at the link listed below. Sponsorship opportunities are also available. For sponsorship information, please send a detailed email to mykelmediaco@gmail.com h
www.read-huamimagazine.com/awards-gala-2025
Silas Cade Gibson
The son of Corey Gibson and S’Mia Davidson
Elois LettleyOccasions II
By DorJea’ McClammey
For nearly 30 years, Elois Lettley has opened Occasions Restaurant Southern Cuisine, Caterer & Event Center to the public. While eating habits and food cultures have evolved during this period, one thing that has remained constant is her commitment to satisfying the taste buds of her customers. Whether it be fried chicken or fish, cornbread, homemade mac and cheese, turnip greens, ox tails, and more, Elois has delivered, and the Triad community appreciates it.
“I think one of the reasons we’ve been able to stay here is because we kept the country cooking aspect. There were a lot of people in the area who wanted that, and we’ve been able to provide it at an affordable rate continuously,” Elois shares. There is also a soul food buffet on Friday nights that offers southern delicacies such as chitterlings, pig feet, and more. “We offer a great blend of food that may not be available at a lot of other restaurants in the area.”
Born and raised in Caswell County, North Carolina, Elois grew up watching her mother and grandmother cook for their large family. She also helped them make all types of southern delicacies. “My mother was an excellent cook with 12 children,” she says. It wasn’t until she took her talents to New York that she tried her hand in the food industry. Elois worked at The Muffin Burger, which gave her restaurant experience and ultimately encouraged her to open a restaurant in North Carolina.
When Elois first brought up the idea of opening her own restaurant, many of her family and friends couldn’t see the vision. She shares they believed that she couldn’t do it or said that she wouldn’t last six months. Elois didn’t let that stop her. She turned that discouragement into drive and officially opened Occasions Restaurant Southern Cuisine on February 2nd, 1997. She remembers about 30 people showing up that day and recalls how discouraging that was for her. “I can’t make it, not like this,” is what she said. However, just like a good meal can fill you up, word of her amazing cooking filled the community, and now, 28 years later, she continues to serve good southern cooking to hundreds daily.
I think one of the reasons we’ve been able to stay here is because we kept the country cooking aspect. There were a lot of people in the area who wanted that, and we’ve been able to provide it at an affordable rate continuously.
Photos by TMF Photography
In 1998, Elois Lettley took over Occasions II Catering in Burlington. Despite having a penchant for cooking great meals, Lettley said she was nervous because she had never done something of quite a magnitude. “I started this with no restaurant experience,” Lettley said. “I was working in a hospital, and a friend of mine knew I had a passion for cooking, so he asked if I would lease a building and start this business. I didn’t know what to expect going in, but I’m still here.”
It’s obvious that Elois loves what she does; if not, she may not have been able to withstand the challenges of entrepreneurship. She adds, “There are a lot of challenges that come with running my business, and the hardest one has been scaling my mother and grandmother’s recipes from serving 20 people to 400 people without compromising the integrity of them. Throughout the years, I have also tried out different recipes of my own and let my family test them first before I put them on the menu.”
Lettley has enjoyed sharing her life with George, her husband of 58 years. Ironically, they were both in New York when they met. They were married in 1966 there, and after their two children, Fraizer and Gregory, were born, a move back to the Tar Heel State was in the cards. “We came back to North Carolina to raise our children as it made more sense. I got a job working at a bank and later worked in the hospital before starting the restaurant,” she says.
While her husband has been by her side since the beginning, Elois restaurant has had only one other consistent employee, Sonya Blakeney, who has been on board for 24 years. Even more, Elois shares how thankful she is for those who have come and gone, as it has taught her how to be resilient and how to work with different personalities.
As family traditions occur in the Triad, Occasions has found itself as a constant stopping place for them to gather. Elois says, “I remember the first Sunday we opened up, there were only 30 people who came. I didn’t know what to make of it. Fast forward to today, and there’s an average of about 500 people who come in. There have also been some Sundays where we’ll seat about 800 people. On holidays such as Mother’s Day, the number of patrons has grown to nearly 1,000.” Elois and her team are obviously doing something right. As mentioned, Occasions II is a full-service restaurant and caterer. They offer a unique dining experience for various events, including banquets, weddings, wedding receptions, corporate events, and dinners and dances. The Catering To Go options include Baked Chicken, Baked Pork Chops, BBQ Chicken, BBQ Pork Ribs, Country Style Steak, Chicken and Dumplings, Sir Loin Beef Tips, Spaghetti and Meatballs, and much more. Also, remember to add a delicious dessert to your menu, as their options include Apple Cobbler, Cheesecake, Chocolate Pecan Pie, Coconut Pie, Double Chocolate German Chocolate Cake, Red Velvet Cake, and more.
By her love and sharing of it through food, Elois has become a staple in her community. When asked what keeps her going despite all of the challenges she has faced, she honestly couldn’t say. “I’m 77 years old, and I still think about retiring,” she states. Whenever that thought arises, she says her community always encourages her to keep going.
As her future unfolds, Elois hopes to pass the baton of Occasions on to someone with the same passion and desire for serving others. For those looking to follow in her footsteps, Elois’ advice is to be fair with everyone; this includes the customers and employees. By doing that, she believes that you have the opportunity to go a long way. “Occasions is where every event is special,” Elois says.
Occasions II Catering is open from Tuesday through Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., with a special soul food buffet from 5:30 to 9 p.m. on Friday evenings. On Sunday, the restaurant is open from 11:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. h
