Huami Magazine Chicago March/April 2022

CHICAGO

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March/April 2022 Vol. 1 Issue 7

Rejuvenated Soul Massage and Wellness Chicago - March/April 2022

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There Are NoWho If, Ands, OrAtButs It Matters We Are OurAbout Core It! There Are No If, Ands, Or Buts About It!

A Letter From The Editor

A Letter from the Editor

We have finally made it to the month of March. However, A Letter from the Editor I learned not to get my hopes for warm living in North Carolina, What if tomorrow didn’t arrive? All of your plans, hopes weather too high due to the inconsistency in the weather and dreams wouldn’t have a street to park on. What if patterns. All in the same day, it may feel like it’s Springtime, everything that you decided to put off until tomorrow never What ifyou tomorrow arrive?

All of your plans, and before know it,didn’t the temperature may rise, andhopes it feels happened? would beano reason to save a rainy and dreams There wouldn’t have street to park on. for What if like Summer; By the evening, it’s Fall-like, and when midnight day, and you could someone theuntil trouble of making everything that youspare decided to put off tomorrow never arrives, it’s Winter. That is just how it is in North Carolina. promises. What your last happened?

Thereif would be opportunity no reason toseemingly save for aexpired rainy today? wouldspare you do? day, andWhat you could someone the trouble of making I am a warm-weather kind of guy. If it’s 70 degrees every day, promises. What if your last opportunity seemingly expired that is fine with me. Though I’ve survived the Winter, I can do I’ve been that I often today?

Whattold would you do? seem like I do too much. without it.

Honestly, I feel like I am not doing enough and I’m a firm believer in knowing that God seem wouldn’t on me I’ve been told that I often like put I do anything too much.

As a young kid, my mother would dress my brother and me that I couldn’t sometimes wonderand how would Honestly, I feelhandle. like I amI not doing enough I’mlife a firm in thick winter coats before allowing us toitgo outside and play be if I chose to sit idle and accept what presented to believer in knowing that God wouldn’t put anything onme. me I in the cold.

Underneath the coats, we wore sweaters, two haveI found that to be very boring. In my opinion, opportunity that couldn’t handle.

I sometimes wonder how life would t-shirts, thermals, and sometimes more t-shirts.AShe wanted to is a blessing that isn’t afforded to everyone. challenge be if I chose to sit idle and accept what it presented to me. I ensure would not get What too cold while outthat playing.

We didn’t, to mewe is an adventure. is the worst can opportunity happen? have found that to be very boring.

In my opinion, and it was time to come back inside, mom would peel If awhen I do nothing, if I try I don’t, but instead learn is blessing thatI fail, isn’tand afforded to everyone.

A challenge our layers away, down to worst one shirt. inner something new about myself. yourOur pride andcore in to me is of anclothing adventure.

What is Relinquish the that can happen? body temperature remained warm beneath everything, and our return acquire life.

If I do nothing, I fail, and if I try I don’t, but instead learn wellbeing remained intact.

That Relinquish experienceyour reminds something new about myself. prideme andofinhow God protects me for all seasons and situations.

The best advice return acquire life.ever given to me happened when someone told me to make my tomorrow happen today. In doing so Through prayer, fasting, reading God’s word, and application, I have pressed my way given through doors with a key that only The best advice ever to me happened when someone a layer of protection is placed over my life.

When I keep God hopeme provided. have also learned the today. difference between told to makeImy tomorrow happen In doing so at myIwhat core, He reveals Himself when the layers are peeled away. blesses and what cana burden with haveGod pressed my me waywith through doorslife with key thatme only These layers can be fear, shame, depression, guilt, or anything as well.

I compare it toalso knowing when be confident and hope provided.

I have learned the to difference between thewhat enemy try to use to discourage me into believing I am whenlife to be quiet, because Godmay blesses me with and what can burden me with less God created me to someone be. may get it confused asthan well.what I compare it to knowing when to be confident and with being when to bearrogant. quiet, because I start each day with prayer and reading, someoneand mayI seek get itGod confused first; that is the first layer applied. with When my faith is tested Make youarrogant. tomorrow being throughout thetoday, day, Ibut speak life happen most into myimportantly situation and rest on God’s make it count.

Make you tomorrow promise. doing this, LifeBy is but a whisper and happen today, butanother most layer isimportantly applied, and I am warmed we must putmake ourselves in a it count. by what I expect to happen by position to hear what it Life is but a whisper andisfaith.

Beforewe mymust day I can onlyinthank telling us.ends, put ourselves a God for His grace yet once again position to hear what it is for keeping me. us.

We must keep God at telling the core ofTerry who we L.are.

Watson

www.huamimagazine.com Editor In Chief

Terry L. Watson www.huamimagazine.com www.huamimagazine.com Alana Allen - Deputy Editor Editor In Chief

TerryWriters L. Watson Terry LAlana Watson Publisher Allen - Deputy Tonya Dixon Editor Terry L. Watson Writers Dorjae’ McClammey Alana Allen Writer Tonya Terry L. Watson JeuronDixon Dove Writer Terry L. WatsonWriter Ellen Richardson Alana Allen Photographers Monica Montgomery Writer Dove PerfectJeuron Lenz Photography Tamara Smith Group Shaw Photography Photographers Still Shots Photography Still Shots Photography Photographer Perfect Lenz Photography Who Shotya Photography Fredro Shaw Star Photography Group Photographer Still ShotsLayout Photography Who Photography MykelShotya Media Company Linda Bennett Layout Howard Gaither Photography

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On The Cover

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November/December 2014

On The Cover

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CONTENTS

MARCH/APRIL 2022

CHICAGO

Cabrini Superfoods

Jabaz Reeves

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On The Cover

Rejuvenated Soul Massage & Wellness Aja Cavin

Creative Styles Salon

Santia Pace

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Laced Kreationz

Jhenelle Bagley

Huami Magazine Cutest Baby

Wynter Rose

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Also Featured

Lenita Campbell Are you in need of Notary services. Meet the face and founder of Nita Norary LLC. Gary, IN

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Victor Durrah Jr. He is pouring back into the same community that helped to build and shape his life.

Greenville, SC

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Latoya Johnson It begins with beauty. Learn how Bodied By KLE enhances beauty by way of Body Sculpting.

Huntsville, AL

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Rejuvenated Soul Massage and Wellness 6

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Chicago - March/April 2022

By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by Aja Cavin Aja Cavin describes herself as a hardworking, dedicated, and devoted mother and entrepreneur. “I am a healer of the community and a child of God,” she says.

Professionally, she is the lead Massage Therapist and Owner of Rejuvenated Soul Massage and Wellness. Their motto is “We Care About Self Care”. Aja says they strive to provide an amazing service while also educating their clients on various healthy self-care practices.

Located in Alsip, IL, Aja and her team provides relaxation, therapeutic, and clinical massage. “We cater to clients who need to escape and get a piece of mind through relaxation massage. We also cater to clients who need therapeutic work, which addresses the deeper muscles to help relieve pain. Additionally, our services help clients fix or correct their muscle deviation or range of motion,” she says.

The idea of Rejuvenated Soul appears to have happened on purpose. In 2017, Aja quit her corporate job as a Personal Banker for Chase Bank. She shares she wanted to pursue her dreams of becoming one of the best massage therapists in the world. In October of the same year, she enrolled in The Soma Institute in downtown Chicago and studied Clinical Massage. There she received in-depth studies on Pathology, Kinesiology, Anatomy, and Physiology. After the 11-month program concluded, Aja took her state licensing exam (MBLEX) and passed on her first try. “Once I received my license, I began taking individual clients and provided services at their homes or other locations. I showed them how to properly relax and helped them with their aches and pains. As time went on, my business grew to the point where I had needed help to meet the demand,” she says.

In July 2021, Aja opened her very own practice and hasn’t looked back.

Aja’s toughness can be traced back to her upbringing.

She grew up in a family of six and is the third sibling of four. “I was the rebel of the family. I always marched to the beat of my own drum and did things my way. I have a “can’t stop, won’t stop” mindset regarding achieving goals and getting things done. This mindset keeps me grounded and focused,” Aja says.

Rejuvenated Soul Massage and Wellness happened because of Aja’s love for helping people. She wanted to create an atmosphere to help her clients’ relax and assist with their aches and pains. Aja shares that Rejuvenated Soul is a space for clients and future therapists who are looking to grow their business in massage.

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The idea to help upcoming massage therapists and give them the opportunity to serve her clients while growing their own business was originally Aja’s. Besides the three amazing therapists who comprise the Rejuvenated Soul team, Aja has formed a network of other independent therapists that’s serving clients all over the Chicagoland area.

In Aja’s line of work, there is never a dull moment. She often has the opportunity to meet and help many different people from all walks of life. She shares that is something she loves most about her business. “I love helping others get more in tune with their body while educating them on a variety of useful self-care practices. I also love building business relationships with my clients. That is so important because they trust me with the most important part of them; their body.”

Along the way, there have been some challenges that Aja has faced. She says, “Before going to massage school, I would massage people just because I had the skill to do it. I didn’t necessarily have the knowledge of the body. My mom then encouraged me to attend school to become more professional and knowledgeable about bodywork. That was very valuable advice because I learned that working with someone’s body can be very dangerous, especially if you don’t know if they are suffering from a certain condition.”

www.rejuvenatedsoulllc.com 872-903-3873

Gaining clientele and marketing was also a challenge Aja faced. She started working primarily with family and friends but realized she couldn’t grow her practice by those means alone. She had to think of strategic ways to get other clients, and one was (word of mouth) and building rapport with clients. She also promoted her services via social media and surrounded herself with other experienced therapists and business owners with the intention to learn how to be a better businesswoman and massage therapist. That strategy paid off.

Aja says she is inspired by her late grandmother Alma Jones. “She was my biggest supporter and influencer who kept me grounded to continue pursuing massage. Growing up and watching her as an entrepreneur (hairstylist) drove me to follow in her footsteps. While I took steps to pursue my dreams, my grandmother passed before seeing my business grow. I wanted to continue in her honor and show her that her little “A” will use the gift she always knew I had for helping others,” she shared.

As Aja continues her entrepreneurial journey, she promises to reach back and help anyone who may follow in her footsteps. Her advice to such individuals is to never give up and see things all the way through. “If you have a dream that keeps tugging on you to start, it’s tugging on you for a reason. It’s your purpose and God will keep drawing you near and aligning people until you take the steps. Understand that things will get tough but persevere and keep going.

Her future goals are to expand Rejuvenated Soul to other cities outside of Chicago and create more job opportunities for upcoming therapists. “I look forward to adding more modalities outside of massage and giving my community a variety of wellness options that will help them live a happier and healthier life,” she says. h

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Brothers Restoring Urban Hope, Inc.

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By Ellen Richardson Photos provided by Victor Durrah Jr. There are few powerfully inspiring stories like that of Victor Durrah, Jr. Victor is the President & Executive Director of B.R.U.H. Mentor (Brothers Restoring Urban Hope). This non-profit organization aims to restore urban communities across the Upstate of South Carolina through group mentorship, leadership training, and spiritual guidance, has turned his past into a prosperous future for the youth in his community.

“I grew up in a poor neighborhood in Cowpens, SC. While I was growing up, we had a community center that gave us a safe space to come and do homework, have a snack, play sports, and just receive any kind of support possible to all the kids in my apartment complex,” said Durrah. “The woman who operated this center, a woman we all called Mama Doris Anderson, was a real mentor. She even took us all on trips to Washington, DC. Everything that she did gave us hope for the future, and I just want to do the same for our future leaders.”

Before having the opportunity to achieve his goal, The 5-foot 11 athlete, who played guard in high school, would do the same at Spartanburg Methodist College. This opportunity would allow him to obtain his associate’s degree and transfer to the University of Southern Carolina Upstate to receive his bachelor’s degree in non-profit administration and management. “When I was given the opportunity to go to school, I originally planned to pursue teaching and coaching, but I felt like God was pointing me in a different direction, one that would allow me to impact my whole community more profoundly,” he said. That impact was through the B.R.U.H Mentor program.

While working at a local Boys & Girls Club, Durrah began to see a need for urban youth development and mentorship for young adults aged 16 to 18-years-old. “Once these impressionable students begin to age out of programs like this and others like it, I noticed that most were left to figure out how to become a successful adult without someone to show them what this looks like,” he said. “As a result, my fraternity brother Antonio Boyd and I began coming up with mentorship programming catered to underserved young adults between the ages of 16-24 that assisted them in discovering and developing their unique talents so that they could become thriving, productive, and engaged adults. It is funny because this started out as a class project that 17 years later has served over 20,000 young people throughout urban communities here in Spartanburg.”

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While giving birth to this mission would stem from a successful class project, God would take Durrah on a bit of a journey before his dream to run this organization full-time would become a reality. This journey would begin at the Boy Scouts of America in Spartanburg as a district executive, director of multi-cultural markets, and ultimately senior district executive in less than a decade. Before long, this bornto-be mentor would return to the school that began his professional career as a director of professional development. “While I enjoyed this job, the position mostly centered around campus development,” said Durrah. “So, it wasn’t long before I realized that pursuing this kind of position was keeping me away from my passion, which was being out in the community helping our urban youth,” he said.

This desire would lead Durrah back towards a dream job at a remarkably familiar place. “I have always dreamed of being a CEO of a Fortune 500 non-profit organization. In February of 2020, I was given a chance to see this dream come true when I was offered the executive director position at the Boys & Girls Club of Transylvania County, in Bervard, NC,” he said. “While I accepted the position initially, something kept telling me – God kept telling me that I had unfinished business with my own non-profit organization right here in Spartanburg County. So, I returned home and began working full-time at Brothers Restoring Urban Hope, Inc.”

Thanks to following the lead of the Holy Spirit, Victor and his talented staff are celebrating 17 years of changing thousands of lives for the better in the community. “When I was in college and even when I was growing up, I was blessed to have mentors in my community that gave me hope to pursue a bright future. Knowing that my staff and I are becoming the same type of mentors who are now guiding future leaders right here in my community has meant everything to me,” he said. “We have even taken over the old community center that I spent many of my days growing up, where we now provide group mentorship, leadership and soft skills training, and spiritual guidance. We even offer free wi-fi and computers to both young adults and parents in our community who need to come by and set up professional profiles, pay bills, etc. About a month ago, during our 17-year anniversary, B.R.U.H. Mentor was awarded the first-ever Key to Spartanburg County, for our community development work, by Spartanburg County Councilman Monier Abusaft.”

Victor is surely following the purpose that God has given. To learn more about his program, please visit his website.

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Latoya Johnson Bodied By KLE

By Dorjae’ McClammey Photos Provided by Fredro Star

Latoya Johnson of Huntsville, AL, is the owner of Bodied by KLE, a body sculpting studio. She is also the face of The Latoya Johnson Brand, her personal line of luxury wellness products for both men and women.

Bodied by KLE is a family-owned business. She is married to Eric Johnson, who is also her business partner. KLE are the initials of their three amazing children. Khyah, Laylah, and Eric III all play significant roles in the family business.

The company is based in a studio setting, and Latoya focuses on educating her clients on self-care techniques. They also strive to help their clients achieve their ultimate Bodied goals while providing a clean and safe environment. Some of their services include Body Sculpting, Yoni Steaming, Lip Blushing, and Semi Permanent Makeup. Additionally, Bodied By KLE offers Microblading/ Microshading and Body Sculpting classes for those interested in making a career move. Latoya points out that all of her services begin with a detailed consultation that’s designed to ensure their clients have a concise understanding of whatever procedure is taking place.

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“I want to be a good example to my children. I love how they come to me for business advice and life lessons.

They’re watching me grind and create a legacy.”

Along with her family, Latoya made the trek to Huntsville from South Alabama. She is a country girl at her core, and says she is living the “country life in the city”. “I love to garden, and I also own a few chickens and a duck. I love when Mr. Johnson takes me fishing, and we have even camped in the backyard before.”

Initially, Latoya and her husband, an engineer, set out to establish a consulting company. However, things would change after Latoya and her sister took a trip to the spa. Latoya received her first body contouring experience and loved it so much that she bought the machine. Latoya took it home with her, and they learned how to use it in no time. They began conducting contouring sessions in their home, eventually obtained their certificates and licenses, created a company under the KLE Solutions’ Umbrella, and moved operations to a traditional brick-and-mortar location.

Soon, Latoya stepped away from her job and gave Bodied by KLE her full attention.

The couple continued their research and acquired body sculpting education, and focused on perfecting their craft. What is sewed shall also be reaped; in July 2020, Bodied by KLE was established.

The Latoya Johnson Brand was established in November 2021. Latoya says it began as a supplement to Bodied

by KLE and offered detox teas, yoni oils, and waist trainers. The Latoya Johnson Brand is transitioning into an adult intimacy company. This new and sexy line of products aims to create a space for women to experience the power of the “Yoni.”

Before starting Bodied by KLE, Latoya worked in the healthcare industry for over 20 years. She has a background in Nursing and Health Care Administration. She served as the Director of Nursing in a prominent Assisted Living community in Huntsville.

Latoya shares how she has always had a passion for making others feel better. “My career in management has played a huge role in helping me teach others about healthy living.”

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Latoya says she loves being her own boss. Most importantly, she enjoys operating a family business and securing her family’s future. “I want to be a good example to my children. I love how they come to me for business advice and life lessons. They’re watching me grind and create a legacy,” she says. “Everything that I do is connected to their future. I do it for them.” She is also developing a continued education/ mentorship program that will teach body contouring secrets and branding and marketing techniques. Bodied by KLE is also developing a mobile solution for Postop care clients that have received cosmetic procedures such as Lipo- 360. “We will be the spa that comes to you,” she shares.

Latoya offers some advice for those thinking about entering the world of entrepreneurship. “It doesn’t have to be perfect for you to launch it, and don’t allow the small things to hold you back from your dreams,” she says. h

Bodied By KLE www.bodiedbykle.com bodiedbykle@gmail.com 256-274-1477

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JWA Accounting & Tax Services

By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by Katie Rae Photography The income tax season has arrived. This time of year isn’t something to look forward to for some. Even the smallest details matter if you are an individual or business owner. Inaccuracies and oversights can sometimes lead to penalties and fines, and the lack of current laws can be disastrous.

Fortunately, there is help available. Joy W. Adams and JWA Accounting & Tax Services are ready to meet her client’s needs.

JWA Accounting & Tax Service is a familyowned accounting firm dedicated to offering tax preparation with the highest level of integrity. In addition to taxes, they offer Bookkeeping, Payroll, Tax Planning, and Mobile Notary Services.

A native of Kansas City, KS, Joy is committed to providing the best and most professional financial insight to small business owners and individuals desiring stability and financial security. As an experienced accountant with an eye for detail, she possesses other meaningful attributes such as professionalism, commitment, integrity, and honesty. All of these ensure the best possible experience for current and potential clients.

“I was working a job that I had out grown. Even more, I always wanted to be an entrepreneur and felt my passion for serving people and my love for accounting would be my calling.”

Joy launched her business in 2018. “I was working a job that I had out grown. Even more, I always wanted to be an entrepreneur and felt my passion for serving people and my love for accounting would be my calling,” she shares. So with faith and determination, she walked into her purpose, and the rest is history.

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Joy graduated from Park University with a bachelor’s in accounting, then pursued a Master’s degree in Human Resources from Webster University. With over 20 years of experience serving in a multitude of accounting and human resources roles, Joy is respected for being a versatile and well-rounded tax professional.

As an entrepreneur, Joy says she enjoys having the opportunity to serve her community and ensure people are educated in the area of taxes. She also appreciates the opportunity to assist business owners by taking on the burden of the accounting task, allowing them to focus on growing their small businesses. While Joy shares she has a genuine love for serving others, it truly her clients and their continued support that have made the biggest impact on her life and business.

“I have been blessed to be able to provide a meaningful service to the members of my community. I work very hard to ensure my business is recognized for being trustworthy.

It’s definitely an honor when I am told that my services are highly recommended,” she says.

“It takes a lot of trust to turn your financial affairs over to a stranger. I appreciate that my clients have trusted me to do right by them and know that I will continuously operate in honesty and integrity.”

Her advice to others who may follow in her footsteps is to be patient. She says, “Success does not come overnight. Don’t compare yourself to anyone else because this is your journey and you have to walk it out at your own pace. Also, don’t get discouraged by what may not happen today because tomorrow is a new day, full of new opportunities and possibilities.”

Moving forward, Joy says she plans to continue to grow her business to higher levels.

She also plans to continue to educate herself and achieve her personal goal of becoming a CPA (Certified Public Accountant). Joy enjoys working out, reading a good book, spending time with her family and friends, and finding the perfect shoes in her free time.

To learn more about JWA Accounting & Tax Services, please visit their website.

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Laced Kreationz, LLC

By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by Jhenelle Bagley In an era where online megastores determine how consumers shop, there is little room for small to medium-sized retailers to exist. Also, without adequate capital, marketing, and representation, most businesses won’t survive long. Yet, one savvy businesswoman is proving that good, old-fashioned hard work does pay off.

Jhenelle Bagley is the owner of Laced Kreationz, LLC. Originally from Miami, FL, but now residing in the Commonwealth of Virginia, Jhenelle confesses she is a proud Floridian. She is a wife and mother of three.

In addition to being an entrepreneur, she works as a Certified Nursing Assistant.

Laced Kreationz specializes in personalized gifts and apparel. Jhenelle shares that Laced Kreationz started as a hobby in 2019 merely to relieve the stress and hypertension she was being affected by. She’s always been creative and sort of artsy but never imagined using her gift beyond the realms of a hobby. That all changed when she designed a personalized bottle of water on a whim. Next, she took it to work, and to her surprise, everyone loved it. Orders came flooding in, she says. “Even though I had just started, one coworker wrote me a check for $300 and trusted me to create their family cruise shirts. I was so excited to get them done.

I delivered on my end of the deal, and I’ve been booked ever since.”

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Some of the products Laced Kreationz offers are t-shirts and bath towels. They also offer screen print designs, DTF (direct to film), and vinyl options, as well as Glittered Tumblers, Swag Bag goodies, and promotional items. Jhenelle says tablecloths and personalized infant apparel are her best sellers. “If it can be printed using sublimation, Jhenelle says she can accomplish it.”

Jhenelle has a genuine love for helping others, whether in her CNA capacity or through her business. “I have encountered some amazing women on this journey who are goal-driven, motivated, positive and securing bags while genuinely being themselves. Those are the types of people who inspire me,” she says.

Challenges in business happen at all levels, it doesn’t matter the size of the structure, and for Laced Kreationz, this also applies.

“There are so many challenges I’ve had to overcome while being an entrepreneur: finances, relationship fallouts, inventory shortages, and more. I’ve survived because I have learned to just roll with the punches and do my best to stay motivated,” she says.

Though relatively new in her business journey, there is only one thing Jhenelle says she would have done differently. “I wish I would have taken time to formulate a business plan fully. Other than that, I believe everything that has transpired so far was meant for me, including the failures and successes,” she says.

The future looks bright for Laced Kreationz. Under the leadership of Jhenelle, things will only continue to prosper. She hopes to open up a storefront eventually and offer same-day print services. It’s going to happen for sure, and Jhenelle will be ready for it.

To learn more about Laced Kreationz, please visit their website.

Jhenelle Bagley Laced Kreationz LLC www.lacedkreationz.com 904-518-9212

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MAGAZINE

Cutest Baby

Wynter Rose The daughter of Christopher and Latisha

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To submit photographs to be placed in the Huami Magazine Cutest Baby feature, please send a detailed email to huami.cutestbaby@gmail.com

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I am

Lenita Campbell

By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by Lenita Campbell Lenita Campbell is a pastor’s wife, mother of two beautiful girls, and one son, Lenita was born and raised in Southern California but now resides in the midwestern town of Gary, IN. Lenita is also a savvy businesswoman and leads a notary public company called Nita Notary, LLC. While serving the Greater Northwest Indiana area, Lenita offers Loan Signing Service, Mobile Notary Service, Remote Online Notary Service, I-9, and Photo Inspections, and office support to various businesses. “I am professional and friendly while working with everyone involved. Furthermore, I understand the demands and pressure associated with being a notary, and I promise to return every document signed as soon as possible,” she says.

Lenita provides services to title companies, law offices, and more with her Loan Signing Service. Her main focus is to ensure her clients receive closing documents signed without any missing signatures, initials, or dates. Her Remote Online Notarization (RON) component is a notarial act performed electronically via audiovisual by a notary and does not require a physical appearance in front of the notary.

Lenita says Remote Online Notarizations are convenient and secure. “Your document can be notarized in the safety and privacy of your own home. All you need is some form of identification (a government-issued ID with a photo), the document(s) you need notarized, an email address, a device such as a tablet, smartphone, or computer,” she shares.

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“I am professional and friendly while working with everyone

involved. Furthermore, I understand the demands and pressure associated with being a notary, and I promise to return every document signed as soon as possible.”

Lenita earned a bachelor’s degree in Business at Liberty University in 2018, and she has ten years of experience in mortgage service. She has obtained both NNA and LSS certifications and a Title Producer’s License, and her services are bonded and insured.

Nita Notary LLC was formed through the encouragement of one of Lenita’s former coworkers. She says they would always encourage her to become a notary so that she would be able to complete real estate closings. “We both worked in Mortgage Servicing for over ten years.

I was familiar with all of the loan documents, and she pushed me to go for it. After two years of her trying to get me to do it, I finally applied for my commission and got all the necessary training, certifications, and licensing to become a Loan Signing Agent(LSA)/Notary Signing Agent(NSA),” she says. Lenita has been operating as a commissioned notary since December 2020 and an LSA/NSA since January 2021.

Lenita says most people do not realize the importance of a notary’s job until they need one.

Still, she loves helping people and seeing her clients’ relief once they finally get their documents signed and notarized to finalize their transactions.

Lenita says she is inspired by the love and support of her family. On the other hand, she admits that finding a family-work balance is a huge challenge. “I must be present with my family,” she says.

As the demand for her services grows, Lenita plans to diversify her business by adding Mobile Ink Fingerprinting and Apostilles. One thing is for sure, there will always be a need for notary services, and Lenita will be prepared to meet those needs.

To learn more about Nita Notary Services LLC, please visit their website. h

Nita Notary LLC www.Nita-Notary.com 219-801-4887

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Cabrini Superfoods

By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by Jabaz Reeves Whatever we put into our bodies will surely show up on the outside, in some form or another. While the consumption of processed foods has seemingly increased over past years, the benefits aren’t clearly defined.

According to information shared on the website www. healthguidance.org, “Processed foods are foods that are prepared through physical or chemical treatments, which result in the food being significantly different from its original state.” Though opinions vary, when trying to sustain a healthy lifestyle, it may be wise to choose other food options.

This is where Jabaz Reeves comes into play. The Chicago, IL native and Mississippi resident has built his company from a homeostasis perspective, which means: the tendency toward a relatively stable equilibrium between interdependent elements, especially as maintained by physiological processes. (Mariam Webster Dictionary).

Now residing in Jackson, MS, Jabaz owns Cabrini Superfoods. His company offers 440 herbs from different Co-ops located within and outside of the United States.

He uses these herbs to encapsulate and combat various ailments in the body such as High Blood Pressure, Diabetes, Cancer, Libido, Crohn’s, and Epilepsy. There is also a metaphysical section that includes crystals, sage, palo santo, resin, and Florida water. He also stocks a wide variety of herbal teas, fluoride-free toothpaste, elixirs, tonics, raw black soap, and sea moss.

Jabaz graduated from Morgan Park High School in 2002.

Shortly after graduation, he joined the United States Army and later deployed to Baghdad, Iraq. That was in 2003.

He returned home in 2004 and completed his 1500-hour barber course to become a professional barber. He also attended Virginia College and obtained an associate degree in business.

Jabaz says he started his journey of healing his body with herbs and a plant-based diet in 2017. “My health was poor, and I weighed 306 lbs. I had many ailments like High Blood Pressure, Diabetes, and Thyroid issues. Traditional medicine was not helping me, but things changed when I learned about veganism while researching remedies to treat my ailments,” he says.

Now living a healthier life, Jabaz is committed to helping obtain the same benefits. “I love to hear the results when customers’ health issues are being resolved

by utilizing a holistic approach,” he shares. Additionally, he says his inspiration comes from seeing so much growth within himself spiritually, mentally, and physically.

Jabaz says he truly believes that he is walking in his purpose. He admits that it hasn’t been easy, but he appreciates the tough moments he’s faced. The only thing he says he would change about his journey is allowing someone to make him feel as if he was doing something wrong by venturing off and creating his own business instead of working to build them up. His advice to others who may follow in his footsteps is to create your own lane. “You must be original and never let anyone downplay your dreams,” he shares.

In the future, he plans to open a smoothie bar and offer nutrition and health wellness classes for people who are beginning their health journey. To learn more about Cabrini Superfoods, please visit their website. h

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Santia Creative Styles Salon

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By Terry L. Watson Photos by Cazualtee Santia describes herself as a wife, mother, grandmother, sister-friend, and of course, a hairstylist.

“I’m a woman who wears many hats, and I look good while doing it,” she says. Originally a native and resident of Washington, D.C., Santia moved to Pensacola eight years ago after her husband, Jonathan, job placed them there.

Natural Hair Care and making others feel beautiful about themselves is her expertise. “I truly care about the health of my clients’ scalp and hair. I listen to their concerns and offer solutions and treatments that will work best for them,” she says.

While enjoying the success of Creative Styles Salon Spa, Santia decided to change the dynamics of her business model. In 2017, she stepped out on faith and launched her own natural hair care product line that includes shampoos, conditioners, tonics, and lemongrass butter. The reviews have been stunning.

One client shared, “I’ve always used hair tonic while sporting a short hairstyle. I decided in September 2019 to use Santia’s products because I wanted to let my hair grow. The results have been amazing, and some people are doing head turns, not thinking it’s me. My hair smells good, and it’s so soft. People often ask to touch it. I am so pleased with my hair growth.”

Santia’s products are available online and in various stores in Washington, D.C., Miami, Atlanta, and Pensacola.

What Santia loves most about styling hair she shares is connecting with new people and providing confidence and encouragement. She also credits her aunt, who recently passed away for impacting her life and career.

Like most business owners, Creative Styles Salon Spa has been affected by the Covid 19 pandemic.

Santia says when the virus arrived in Pensacola, she had to close her salon. However, being the wise businesswoman that she is, she was able to offset her losses with the online sales of her hair products. She survived, proving that her brand is her to stay.

In the future, Santia says she plans to distribute her products to more stores and open other hair salons throughout the region. Her advice to others who may follow the same path she has is never to give up.

“Obstacles will come, but you have to keep pushing,” she shares.

www.creativestylessalon.com

To learn more about Santia and Creative Styles Salon Spa, please visit either of their locations in Pensacola, Fl, or visit their website. h

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By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by Michael Tolbert

Like most urban communities around the United States, Gary, IN is rich in culture and diversity. According to a recent count, Gary’s population consists of nearly 76,000 citizens, with African Americans representing the highest ethnicity at 78%. Having such a decisive edge compared to other races, the Black experience in Gary is defined by hard work, resilience, durability.

Like most urban communities, Gary has seen its share of crime and violence, and during the 1990s, it was once labeled as one of Indiana’s most dangerous places to live.

Fast forward to 2022, that stigma has faded away, and Gary’s identity is being rebuilt by those who believe that its greatest days are within distance.

That is the story of Michael and Shelice Tolbert of Tolbert & Tolbert Attorneys at Law. True to their roots, they are building one of Indiana’s top law firms in the heart of Gary. Having their practice based in Gary, Indiana is critically important to this power couple.

Michael and Shelice have enjoyed 15 years of marriage.

Their union appears to be almost purposeful. They both pursued careers to practice law. Michael received his formal education in the Gary, IN public school system. He later attended and graduated from Valparaiso University as an undergraduate and Valparaiso University School of Law. He is a believer and faith-based individual and professes that nothing in his life would be possible without God. Michael is also an avid reader. “I don’t spend a lot of time watching television. Instead, I enjoy reading about three books at a time,” he shares. “Family is my passion. I love my wife and would do anything for her.”

“Our mission is to honor God by rendering compassionate litigation services to businesses, organizations, and individuals.”

Michael Tolbert

Shelice was also formally educated in the Gary public school system and later attended Wittenberg University in Springfield, OH. After graduating from there she came back to Gary and “followed” Michael to Valparaiso School of Law. She describes herself as a family-oriented, homebody, down-to-earth type of person who desires to help others. “Michael is my best friend, and spending time with him is always fun,” she says.

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Tolbert & Tolbert Attorneys at Law opened their doors to the public on January 26, 2015. However, Shelice says the idea to open the firm was conceptualized many years before that. Michael says they like to describe themselves as a litigation boutique, meaning they do complex litigation for individuals, cities, towns, municipalities, and higher exposure litigation matters, involving millions of dollars hanging in the balance. Often, companies engaged in complex litigation matters will hire them to help guide them through the process. However, they do not do any family law or criminal cases. Additionally, Michael is a certified mediator, a resource their firm utilizes for Alternative Dispute Resolutions.

Shelice shares something she saw missing in the black community: individuals being educated about transferring wealth and properties and estate planning. “There is a huge misconception that our people have about estate planning. Many believe that you must have millions of dollars to plan out your estate. When they hear that word, they become intimidated by it or think something else; when really you are just being smart about planning for the future of your family and planning generational wealth, whether it’s through keeping your home in the family or designating what you want to be done upon your passing. When it’s not talked about it can create emotional havoc amongst family members. It can be easily taken care of when you plan ahead,” she says.

Michael and Shelice are proud to share that Tolbert & Tolbert is a Christian-based firm. “We openly pray in our office. We have scripture everywhere,” he says. Their mission statement is Christian-based as well. “Our mission is to honor God by rendering compassionate litigation services to businesses, organizations, and individuals”.

Michael says their mission statement is placed in two strategic places in their office; one in the front of the office and the other one at the back door. “It’s the first thing you see in the morning and the last thing you see before you leave. It’s a constant reminder of who your source is, which is God and not man. That is what inspires me, knowing that I have a God who has blessed me enough to have a wife and family who cares about me and be able to have a successful business and help people in our community. We are doing what we love in a community that we love and loves us back. The Gary community helped to raise and nurture us, and now we are able to return the love.”

For Shelice, she says her inspiration comes from her desire to help people. Whether through the law, community service, or education, Shelice believes her purpose in being created and placed in Gary is to help people. “Even if one person is affected by what we do, we have done our job, and we are blessed.”

Being connected to their hometown gives the Tolberts a unique opportunity to address the needs of their neighbors. “A lot of people look at our city negatively.

When I first went away to college, many people connected me with being from the “murder capital,” and people from Gary weren’t able to achieve things. In actuality, that was

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definitely not the case. We have very intelligent, productive, hardworking folks coming out of our city. That is something I had to grapple with, but it’s one of the main reasons I came to Gary, the place where I am from and continue to help build up the place where I am from. When I was younger, I didn’t realize my purpose, but now that I am older, it all adds up. When I was a child, there was never a time when I didn’t have food to eat. My mother, Shirley Winfrey, always made sure we had what we needed, whether I knew what it took to have it. At the same time, I felt I had an obligation to return to Gary and put everything I had received back into the community,” she says.

That narrative that was spoken to Shelice in college has been a source of motivation for her and Michael. As they’ve built their law practice, they’ve only placed billboards that read (Straight Out of Gary) within the city of Gary. That move is strategic; they want to encourage young people, particularly that you can come from here and be something.

They want to let people know that Gary produced these magnificent, productive, successful people. “We want people to know that God has created something in each of us. We all can shine and we all have a gift. It doesn’t matter where you are from. You can live up to what God has created you to do,” Shelice says.

Confirming what his wife has shared, Michael says his testimony is of a young black kid who grew up in an area where the odds said he wouldn’t make it. “In the 80s and early 90s, Gary was a really tough place to grow up. We were blessed to have families that gave us a lot of guidance and structure that allowed us to bypass the pitfalls many of our friends fell victim to, such as the crack epidemic and the aids epidemic. Through all of that, I was able to go to college, get a degree and finish law school, and return to the same streets I was told I would never get out of. When I run into friends who didn’t take the same path, it is a stark reminder that one bad decision could have caused my life to be completely different. Every day, I thank God for blessing me with my father, Matthew Tolbert, who taught me how to make good decisions,” Michael says.

“We want people to know that God has created something in each of us.

We all can shine and we all have a gift. It doesn’t matter where you are from.”

Shelice Tolbert

For those who may follow in their footsteps, the Tolberts offer some advice. “Always believe in something. Pray to God for what you want and speak what you want. Be positive and stay encouraged. Just because there is a bump in the road, or things are not happening the way you would like for them to, “it doesn’t mean that it’s not meant for you. Stay the course and persevere. Things will get hard sometimes, but if they weren’t hard, everyone would be doing it,” they shared.

In the future, Michael and Shelice have plans to grow their law firm in the Gary community and give other lawyers, African American lawyers, a chance to practice law. They hope to have about 10-15 lawyers at their firm in the next five to ten years. The Tolbert’s have also launched a successful podcast entitled “Married People’s Business” aimed at highlighting positive married couples and partners in business. The podcast can be found on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube and other popular platforms. More than anything, they want to be a blessing and example for others.

Tolbert & Tolbert Attorneys At Law 1085 Broadway Suite B Gary, IN 46402 www.tolbertlegal.com (219) 427-0094

To learn more about Tolberts & Tolberts Attorneys At Law, please visit their website.

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