Sept./Oct. 2024
Volume 2 Issue 5
Denise Jones Beyond The Door
Let Your Actions Offer Hope To Others
A Letter From The Editor
You never know who is watching. In everything that we do in life, regardless of whether an audience is present or not, we must know that someone is always watching. While some may be in the form of support or encouragement, others may show up just to learn. I would describe myself as a learner.
Throughout my life, the answers and solutions I’ve needed to survive haven’t always come from those who I would expect them to. Often times I didn’t have what a young and impressionable male needed to grow and maneuver, and because of this, I failed and made many mistakes. Yet, I thank God for grace and for placing help along my way, to ensure that what He has planned and purposed shall be done.
I recently celebrated a birthday. It was cool. I didn’t make a lot of noise, but instead, I enjoyed the blessing of being alive. It was also around this time that the Olympic games were taking place in Paris. As Simeon Biles captivated the world with yet another remarkable performance, my interest was consumed by what American Runner Sha’Carri Richardson accomplished. As many may recall, a few years ago, Sha’Carri made headlines for her mistakes off the track. As I watched the Olympic games, I celebrated her victory, but I also celebrated her determination and her perseverance. Sha’Carri has proven to her naysayers and critics that she can block out distractions and lock in what is most important.
Watching Sha’Carri fueled my fire in some ways. It also reminded me to appreciate the opportunities that God gives us to correct a mistake. As I always say, “no one is perfect, except God’ and life throws a few curve balls here and there, we must stand firm and erect at the plate, always ready to swing for the fences. The greatest opportunity to exhibit our strength happens on our way back up.
I want to encourage everyone to keep moving and believing that our greatest days are still yet to happen. God has given all of His children purpose, and has also provided provisions to see them occur. As we continue along our journey’s, let’s do it with a heart of faith and assurance, because you never know who is watching. We must allow our actions offer hope to others.
Terry L. Watson
God’s Hand on Him DeAnte Howard
ToBeReal Melissa Williams
Flirty Flame Candles Sherry Jefferson
Paschal Construction Chuck Hildreth
Girls 4 Science to Host Women in STEM Fundraiser on October 9th, 2024
Information and Photos provided by Chelsea Whittington
Girls 4 Science (G4S), a nonprofit organization dedicated to inspiring girls’ interest in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM), will host its Women in STEM fundraiser on Wednesday, October 9, 2024 from 5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. at the Hilton Contemporary, 3622 S. Morgan St. in Chicago.
The fundraiser will feature a student showcase where G4S participants will explain their STEM projects and experiments. Girls 4 Science will also honor Linda Boasmond of Cedar Concepts Corporation for her unwavering support of STEM programming for young ladies. Light bites will be served, and free parking is available.
“We are thrilled to honor Linda Boasmond, who has been a staunch supporter and board member of Girls 4 Science since its inception,” said Jackie Lomax, Executive Director of Girls 4 Science. “This event celebrates the achievements of women in STEM and raises funds to support our programs that are shaping the next generation of female innovators.”
Girls 4 Science offers its free 6-week Saturday STEM Academy year-round for girls aged 10-18 years. The program is designed to spark girls’ curiosity in STEM at an early age. By providing engaging hands-on activities, mentorship, and role models, Girls 4 Science helps build girls’ confidence and skills in areas where women are traditionally underrepresented.
Funds raised at the Women in STEM event will help keep the Girls 4 Science Saturday STEM Academy free for all girls who want to attend, regardless of ability to pay. Tickets are available at eventbrite.com. Sponsorship opportunities are available by emailing jlomax@girls4science.org. For more information about Girls 4 Science, visit www. girls4science.org.
About Girls 4 Science
Girls 4 Science is the only free, year-round, out-of-school time STEM program for girls in the greater Chicago region. Girls 4 Science fills a critical need to provide accessible, hands-on, high-quality scientific programming for girls and endeavors to create a sustainable pipeline for women of color in STEM careers.
Media are invited to announce and cover Girls 4 Science. Please send any media inquiries to Chelsea@CWHITT.biz h
City of Chicago Transit ions Mental Health Crisis Response Program to Public Health
Crisis Assistance Response And Engagement (Care) Program to Move Forward With All Public Health Staff
Information obtained from Online Press Release
Mayor Brandon Johnson and the City of Chicago today announced that the Crisis Assistance Response and Engagement (CARE) program, which provides emergency response to people experiencing a mental health crisis, is transitioning to a staffing model comprised of all public health employees.
First piloted with behavioral health clinicians from the Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH) alongside paramedics from the Chicago Fire Department (CFD) and Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) trained officers from the Chicago Police Department (CPD), the CARE program will shift to a staffing model in which CDPH behavioral health clinicians and CDPH emergency medical technicians solely respond to 911 calls identified by dispatchers as having a mental health component.
Over the last three years, CARE team dispatches have resulted in zero arrests and use of force in less than .1% of incidents.
“By directing 9-1-1 mental health calls to public health teams, we are ending the criminalization of these issues and helping to ensure people who are unhoused or experiencing a mental health challenge get the treatment and support they need,” said Mayor Brandon Johnson. “I want to thank our officers from the Chicago Police Department and medical personnel from the Chicago Fire Department for their role in piloting this program, and I am pleased that they can transition back to their primary roles of protecting community safety and responding to medical emergencies.”
Since September 2021, CARE teams piloted with a co-response model (CFD community paramedic, CDPH mental health clinician, and CPD Crisis Intervention Team officer) or an alternative response model (CFD community paramedic and CDPH mental health clinician) have responded to more than 1,500 calls referred by 9-1-1 dispatchers with zero arrests and less than one-tenth of one percent use of force. Complete data are available on the CARE data dashboard.
“This program is a critical component of our work to ensure all Chicagoans can access the behavioral health care they need,” said CDPH Commissioner Olusimbo ‘Simbo’ Ige, MD, MPH. “Along with expanding mental health services, crisis response from trained clinicians will ensure that residents experiencing a mental health challenge can receive compassionate and professional care, and connection to resources to address their unmet health and social needs.”
When the CARE team responds to an individual in crisis they offer de-escalation, mental health assessment, referrals to community services, and transport to community-based destinations as appropriate. The CARE team conducts follow up at one, seven, and 30 days with all individuals that they encounter.
“Protecting public safety will always be a collaborative effort, and having mental health clinicians available to respond to select 9-1-1 calls for which they are well equipped will enable all of us to continue building safer communities together,” said Chicago Police Superintendent Larry Snelling.
“The Fire Department was proud to pilot this program with our community paramedics and demonstrate the value of having specialized teams respond to crisis mental health calls,” said Chicago Fire Department Commissioner Annette NanceHolt. “Transitioning the program to public health leadership will benefit Chicagoans by continuing to increase access and linkages to mental health treatment and social supports.”
The CARE team’s transition to a more holistic and behavioral health driven model has been made possible through collaborative work across City Departments along with Chicago City Council Committee on Health and Human Services Chairwoman Rossana Rodriguez-Sanchez and the longtime advocacy of community organizations, advocates, and organized labor. h
Denise Jones Beyond The Door
By Terry L. Watson
Denise Jones, who hails from the West Side of Chicago, wears many hats. She is an author, playwright, minister, motivational speaker, and entrepreneur. However, if you ask her to describe herself in one word, a survivor would be most accurate.
Denise shares that her childhood was a battlefield, filled with abuse, addiction, and a life forced upon her. Still, she refused to let those experiences define her destiny. “I fought my way to recovery, went back to school against all odds, and built a life centered on helping others find their own path to healing and empowerment,” Denise says. “I come from a big family. My siblings George, Stanley, Bennesse, and Regina all understand the struggles of growing up on the West Side. Thankfully, my two younger siblings, Jermaine and Angela, were born later, after my mom turned her life around, and they were spared those same hardships.”
Annie Mae, Denise’s mom, introduced her to a world of darkness at a far too young age. Thankfully, Annie Mae found her way out, and her strength continues to inspire Denise to this day. At the age of twelve, Denise was already shooting heroin and caught up in a life of crime to support her addiction. That destructive path lasted for nearly fourteen years, and at 27, something shifted in her life. “I found solace in my faith, which led me to recovery and a newfound purpose. I became a certified HIV and Substance Abuse Counselor, an ordained minister, a life coach, and an inspirational speaker. Even though I dropped out of school in the fourth grade, my faith and determination fueled me to earn a GED in 1993. I didn’t stop there; I kept going, eventually earning a Bachelor’s degree in Human Services and a Master’s degree in Non-Profit Management,” she says. More than anything, Denise’s journey is living proof that the human spirit is resilient and that transformation is always possible.
Today, Denise invests her interests and passions in two separate entities: Diamond 7 Enterprises Inc. and Tender Touch Inc.
Diamond 7 Enterprises Inc. is a commercial cleaning company that offers a whole range of facility services to create clean, safe, and healthy environments. “We’re your one-stop shop for all things clean! We handle everything from commercial and industrial cleaning to specialty services like disinfection and even snow removal. We also offer technical services like gym floor maintenance and lighting. We believe that a clean environment is essential for health and productivity, and we’re committed to delivering top-notch service to our clients,” says Denise.
Photos Provided by Denise Jones
With Tender Touch Inc., a non-profit organization, Denise focuses on helping women and young girls who the penal system has impacted. They offer training, support, and an opportunity to their clients to rebuild their lives and find their place in the world. Tender Touch is also the proud sponsoring agency of the play, “Beyond the Door,” which is based on Denise’s memoir, “Who Said It Couldn’t Be Done.”
Beyond The Door is a raw and personal story brought to life on stage under the brilliant direction of nine-time Jeff Award recipient E Faye Butler. Her production premiered at the Beverly Arts Center in Chicago on September 13th, 2024, and was followed by two additional performances on September 14th and 15th. “The vision for “Beyond the Door” was born out of my own lived experiences and the profound realization that my story could offer hope to others. I wanted to create something that would not only entertain but also inspire, empower, and ignite conversations about the possibility of change. The play’s title is symbolic of the transformative power of stepping outside of one’s comfort zone and embracing the unknown. It represents the courage it takes to face one’s past, confront difficult truths, and ultimately choose a different path,” she says.
“Tender Touch is where my heart truly lies,” Denise says. “We offer a range of programs to help women and girls coming out of the penal system get back on their feet. We provide educational opportunities, job readiness training, including janitorial services, and the support they need to successfully reintegrate into their families and communities. Both of my organizations are about transformation and empowerment. Diamond 7 helps create healthy spaces, while Tender Touch helps heal and rebuild lives.”
Denise shares how she truly loves what God has blessed her to do. “Witnessing transformation firsthand is what truly sets my soul on fire. Whether it’s the hushed silence of an audience captivated by a story on stage or the newfound confidence of a woman stepping into a job interview after years of incarceration, those moments are what makes everything worthwhile. My work is about more than just cleaning buildings or offering programs – it’s about empowering individuals to rewrite their narratives, break free from the chains of their past, and embrace the boundless possibilities that lie ahead. It’s a privilege to play even a small part in their healing, growth, and self-discovery journeys.”
Running a business, especially two with such distinct missions, comes with its fair share of challenges. Denise shares how employee turnover and retention can be a constant struggle, particularly in the cleaning industry. She adds that managing diverse personalities and navigating the personal baggage that people bring with them, both clients and employees alike, requires patience, empathy, and strong leadership skills. “The operational side of things, from payroll and accounting to equipment procurement, can also be overwhelming at times. Early on, I struggled to secure funding for Tender Touch, which limited our ability to provide the level of support I envisioned for the women we serve. But I’ve learned to embrace these challenges as opportunities for growth. I’ve become resourceful and creative in finding solutions, from grant writing and fundraising to building strategic partnerships. I surround myself with a dedicated team who share my vision and values, and I invest in ongoing training and development to ensure we’re always operating at our best.”
While there are moments when Denise may reflect on the past, she has come to realize that every experience, no matter how painful, has shaped her into the person she is today. “My journey, with all its twists and turns, has given me a unique perspective and a deep well of empathy. I believe that my story, in all its raw honesty, has the power to resonate with others who are facing their own struggles. While I might wish for a less turbulent past, I wouldn’t change it. I’ve learned to embrace my scars as symbols of strength and resilience, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to use my experiences to inspire and uplift others,” she says.
Looking ahead, Denise would like to see her production grace the stages of renowned theaters like The Steppenwolf and the Goodman, captivating audiences with its powerful message of hope and redemption. She also yearns for the play to reach those who need it most. “I want to bring this production into jails and schools, sparking conversations about trauma, addiction, and the transformative power of choice. Beyond the play, I’m committed to expanding the reach and impact of Tender Touch. I want to empower even more women and girls impacted by the penal system, providing them with the tools and support they need to build successful, fulfilling lives,” she says.
Denise’s ultimate goal is to create a ripple effect of positive change, one life at a time, and to inspire others to break cycles and create brighter futures for themselves and their communities. h
DeAnteHoward
God’s Hand All Over Me
By Terry L. Watson
Photos Provided by Deante Howard
DeAnte Howard of Kansas City, MO, is a husband, father, and follower of Christ. He is also blessed with the gift of creativity through many forms of expression. Born in Kansas City, DeAnte was raised by a single father. He is the middle child of seven. He has been married to his incredible wife for 12 years, and together, they have five kids, four boys and a girl.
DeAnte is also the owner of an art company called Deecor Design, and he owns a clothing brand called Equris Clothing. “Deecor is a play on words. Decor is things that decorate a room, with art fitting that category. When I do art, I do it from the heart or from the core, giving my all. With my work, you get Dee’s Core. I have come to adopt Deecor as my artist name,” he says.
DeAnte started his professional art journey in 2021. He says, “I always loved art. Since a kid, I knew I wanted to do something with art being a key component. However purely being an artist seemed like a pipe dream, I have never seen anyone who looked like me, from where I’m from have a successful art career. I knew artists, but none of them, even the insanely talented ones, could support themselves, let alone love a family with their artwork, at least not directly. I ended up going to school for architecture, thinking I could do art that people could live in, but I didn’t like the program. I later pivoted to graphic design. Switching, unbeknownst to me, meant dropping my classes with a fail, which destroyed my GPA, and that became my last semester of college.
DeAnte would later learn about print-on-demand. With the emergence of social media, his dream of making a living from my art seems possible. In 2021, he made a few art pieces as a side gig, as he worked as an Insurance Agent full-time. When he was laid off from his job, DeAnte decided to go full throttle with his work. He went to a Chiefs game, and while tailgaters were waiting for entry, I walked around the parking lot selling prints and canvases. “I made more in a few hours than I did in a whole month at work. From that moment, I told my wife I’m not sending in another application, and I have been a full-time artist since,” he says.
I
am
not
just an artist; I am also a businessman. That means, I
can’t
just create art all day, everyday. I have a lot of hats to wear. I am the CEO, CFO, marketing department, PR, customer service, and research and development. I balance all of that with also being a husband and father.
DeAnte shares that he loves his chosen career as an artist. “From the freedom and flexibility to knowing that someone loves my style when they purchase my work. That is the most gratifying part of what I do,” he says.
DeAnte faces some challenges as a self-employed artist. He shares, “I am not just an artist; I am also a businessman. That means, I can’t just create art all day, everyday. I have a lot of hats to wear. I am the CEO, CFO, marketing department, PR, customer service, and research and development. I balance all of that with also being a husband and father.”
DeAnte says that without God, he would not be where he is today. He adds, “God’s hand has been all over my life. When I was about 13, I had surgery on my neck for something that has rarely been seen. I had Tuberculosis, a bacteria that can kill you. I had apparently been living with it dormant for years. When it activated, it wasn’t in my lungs like it usually is; it was in my spine. It was deteriorating my spinal disc, which caused one disc to collapse and pinch a nerve. I was on a school bus, and we hit a bump, and I had the worst pain I have felt. Had the TB gone unnoticed for a couple more weeks, it would have made it to my nerves and brain stem and could have caused some irreversible damage and could have ended my life. God’s hands were all in that.”
DeAnte would also undergo surgery and have rods and screws placed in his neck. With the operation, the doctors said walking would be difficult. That news deflated Deanta, as he says that sports was his first love. “Growing up where I did, sports or music is how you got out, and while I could do both, I didn’t like the music industry, so I, much like a lot of urban youth, thought sports would be my out,” he shares. Thankfully, other than his limited range of turning his head, his prognosis is unnoticeable.
Moving forward, DeAnte is working on making some connections to upgrade the platforms he is presently working on. He desires to do projects with the NFL, NBA, and MLB involving the organizations, teams, and players. He also would like to work with Topps/ Fanatics and Panini. The sky is the limit for DeAnte, and with his determination and gifts, there is nothing that he will not accomplish.
“The Evolution of A Family Business”
Paschal Construction & Project Management Charlton Hildreth
By Terry L. Watson
Chuck Hildreth
Chuck Hildreth is a man on a mission. The Memphis, TN, resident keeps his family and his brand the focal point of his life. In regard to family, Chuck has three amazing kids, Drew, Tayler, and Sydney, all of whom embody his passion for entrepreneurial success.
Chuck owns several businesses, with Paschal Construction & Project Management being at the forefront and laying a foundation that makes the others possible. He also owns Paschal Hildreth Entertainment and has published a series of books under the Daddy Books Bundle compilation.
Chuck began working as a Disc Jockey in the 70’s. He was only a teen. He would eventually get into concerts and clubs along the way. Currently, with Paschal Hildreth Entertainment, they have a one hour television special in the works.
Daddy Books, which is Chuck’s favorite, is a collection of stories about times spent with his kids while they were growing up. “Chuck says, “The unique thing is once you read the book, you begin to see yourself in the dad character. Even moms find joy and comparisons in these stories. That is on purpose because there are strong mother figures throughout the stories portrayed through Mom and Grandma.”
Paschal Construction was birthed in 1960 by Chuck’s late uncle, John Paschal. “I was blessed to have worked under him as a teenager and gained vast experience during that tutelage. Paschal Construction has come a long way from building and remodeling houses to now maintaining commercial sites such as Wendy’s and other large chains,” he says.
Just like his uncle, Chuck has been able to bring his family with him. “I have resurrected the company and rebranded it. Now it will be up to my children to take this to the next level,” Chuck says. Paschal Construction is a full-service construction company that began with home remodeling and repairs. The company built its reputation on giving older homes a fresh new look. Eventually, the company grew from the residential sector to servicing commercial clients. One major client was Fitzgerald Casino. Chuck says that opportunity really opened some huge doors for Paschal Construction.
Another commercial client, Wendy’s Restaurants helped to change the way Chuck’s company operated. “We went from just painting homes to laying commercial roofs, as well as plumbing, electrical, and HVAC.,” he says. Now, the company has also included Project Management into their portfolio.
Photos Provided by
Chuck grew up in the small town of Hot Springs, Arkansas. His roots can be traced to a neighborhood of educators or entrepreneurs. That blend provided him with a unique perspective on the future. “I learned to combine my education with my entrepreneurial spirit. My mother was a teacher, my aunts were teachers, and my uncle was a teacher and business owner. So after high school, college, and the military, I came back to the family business,” he says. “I was introduced to entrepreneurship as an early teen. This goes all the way back to when my mom purchased a lawn mower to cut our Grass. I took the mower and a neighbor and began cutting our neighbor’s yards. That was my first business, and having my own money felt good. After that experience, my uncle began taking me with him, though I wanted to be out playing with the boys instead. Looking back, I can see how I developed this strong work ethic and ability to manage my time well. People wonder how I keep up this hectic schedule, but they do not realize that I was trained to do it. I have been running and running from my youth to now!”
Chuck credits his mother for instilling drive and vision into him. He says, “My mother was a single mom, and she somehow never allowed me to think, feel, or realize that a single mother was raising me. She surrounded me with strong male mentors in my community and family. When I was young, I saw her standing out in her community and the school system. She was a teacher that her students and their parents always acknowledged. Additionally, she was one of our city’s first groups of integrated teachers. This also allowed me to not be struck with the stigma of racism. I was very comfortable around Blacks and Whites. My mother had some entrepreneurial endeavors and supported my own as a youth. She also pushed me out in the community, and by doing so, it helped to develop strong confidence within myself.”
Understandably, Chuck also acknowledges his wife for having a huge impact on his life. He says that most married men have to acknowledge that when you are out there fighting your fight in the world, there is a wife in the home supporting you. “I could not have done the things I did, the way I did, without the support of a strong woman at home!”
When asked what he loves most about what he does, Chuck says it is the opportunities he has to make his customers happy. “All of my businesses have a customer service factor. My construction company allows us to fix our customers’ construction problems. The entertainment company gives the customers some time out to enjoy a concert or comedy, which takes them away from the issues of home and life, if only for a moment. Daddy Books allows parents to reflect on their own time with their kids or just live out that experience through these kids and dad,” Chuck shares.
As a Black man in the field of businesses that Chuck is in, there are always going to be challenges. These can be not enough money, not enough education, not enough experience, and so on. “You must be up to the challenge. If it were easy, everyone would be doing it. For me, I believe the difference maker is that I am actually built for adversity. I’m good at damage control and dealing with organized chaos, so my coping skills are deep,” he says.
As a man of faith, Chuck believes that everything in his life has happened for a reason and that he is where he should be in life. He says that God brought him right here and this way for His reasons. “I don’t question God. I have seen both good and bad and learned all along the way.”
As his community has played a significant role in his life, Chuck is very intentional in giving back and helping others. He serves as a mentor for young people, especially boys. He also offers jobs to unskilled youth, which exposes them to construction and entrepreneurship. He adds, “Oftentimes, our young men may not see business owners in their communities. I speak at events as well as host events to train youth to speak. I believe that learning to speak in public is important, so I give them that opportunity whenever we have events.”
Chuck concludes by sharing, “I have owned clubs and other businesses. I have done concerts and events. I have run a substantial construction company. Now that I have done all that I wanted to do, my own kids are able to fulfill their dreams!”
Pictured above is John Paschal, the founder of Paschal Construction and Property Managment
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
Sherry Jefferson
By Terry L. Watson
Sherry Jefferson is the owner of and CEO of Flirty Flame Candle Co LLC. Sherry says that her comany is committed to offering quality products and unparalleled customer service. “Our motto is “Self Care is our love language.” Every person deserves to have a great-smelling space to relax in or just enjoy. It doesn’t matter if you are taking a long bath or simply enjoying a glass of wine on the patio; candles can help set the tone. Aromatherapy has been around for so long because it simply works. Aromatherapy is not a trend. It is a timeless tradition that speaks to the very essence of our being. Fragrances have a way of evoking memories and emotions in us that we may have forgotten, so I carefully choose the fragrances for my candles, wax melts, room/linen/body sprays, reed diffusers, body massage oils, aroma beads and foaming hand soaps.”
Currently residing in Athens, AL, Sherry calls Huntsville home. She attended Alabama A&M University in 1989 and majored in Computer Science with a Minor in Marketing. She has two daughters Rayven and Kristina. She is also a firm believer that women are natural-born nurturers, and if women don’t take care of themselves, they can’t take care of others.
Sherry says the vision to start her company came from wanting to make candles for birthdays. My parents both worked to provide for my family when I was younger. There were five kids in our family. We mostly had parties or celebrated birthdays at home, and we were okay with that. My Mom put more emphasis on the candle than the cake. That meant we didn’t always have a cake to put the candle on. It could be a cookie cake, cupcake, or Twinkie. We just knew that when the candles came out, it
Aromatherapy has been around for so long because it simply works. Aromatherapy is not a trend. It is a timeless tradition that speaks to the very essence of our being.
Photos Provided by Sherry Jefferson
was somebody’s birthday. Even as we got older, she always made sure we got the candle by way of text. By 6:00 am, we would receive the text with a picture of a birthday candle. When my Mom passed in July 2014, my siblings and I decided to continue the tradition of making sure we all got the birthday candle. Even during the Covid pandemic, our tradition continued. Though we were on lockdown, I wanted to ensure that we still got our candles for our birthdays. I ordered a candle-making kit, and the rest is history. That was in 2020. However, I didn’t launch my first line of candles into retail until 2021 after thorough testing. Later, I added the wax melts, reed diffusers, body oils, aroma beads, and more to the collection,” she says.
Owning her own company also allows Sherry to be creative. She shares, “I enjoyed being able to be creative. Then, I decided to create aromatherapy candles for different moods. These included orange and ginger for energy, lemongrass, and lemon verbena to uplift the spirit, and eucalyptus and mint to refresh the mind. I tested from March until the end of November. I also participated in a vending event for Black Friday, but I only sold three candles due to the event not being marketed well and the location. However, one of the three people who purchased one of my candles owned a consignment shop in Blountsville, and they reached out to me to put my products in her location.”
“My products are made with your well-being and senses in mind. Let’s take my sweet pipe tobacco scent, for instance; its nostalgic embrace takes me back to one of my most cherished moments with my grandfather. I remember I was sitting on his lap; he was puffing on his pipe and fussing at Bear Bryant on the television during a football game. My Honeysuckle scent takes me back to my grandmother’s backyard on a summer day,” she says.
Sherry says her family has impacted her life the most. “My top three, as I call them, know I would not be able to do any of the things that I do without their support. I am grateful for them daily,” she says. Last October, Sherry was awarded the American Dream Project - Decatur’s Next Great Pop-Up in the Decatur Mall. The prize was free rent for the holiday season, with an option to renew the lease in the end. The event was a success for Sherry and many of the other vendors; however, she decided not to renew her lease and instead take the Mobile Candle Bar on the road. In April of this year, Sherry competed in the Singing River Trail Launch Tank, similar to the television show Shark Tank. Amazingly, she won first place and a prize of $7500.
Moving forward, Sheryy plans to increase her wholesale customers. She also plans to focus on her mobile business. With her determination, Sherry is sure to accomplish all of her goals. h
Learn More About My Experience of Being A Caregiver For My Mother
By Terry L. Watson
CHAPTER SIX: Caring and Love Go Hand in Hand
As a young boy growing up with my other siblings, I watched my mother wear so many hats. Now, as a full-grown man, I am even more amazed at how she did so much with it only being her. My mother was everything to a whole lot of people, and by being so, I watched how it wore her down. Still, she never spoke about how tired she was. She just kept pushing and moving, and pushing, and moving.
What I learned more than anything from watching my mother was that she had a heart the size of Jupiter, and she shared her love with anyone. It was like she never met a stranger. It didn’t matter if it was a neighbor at church, a stranger in the grocery store, or a co-worker. My mother always seemed to attract new friends and treat them all the same: with love, compassion, and empathy.
I’ve always wondered why Mama was so loving and giving. I didn’t get my answer until I was a lot older. One of her neighbors who had known her as a young girl told me that my mother reflects the upbringing that her grandmother gave her. My mother was raised by her, and when I heard this, it made perfect sense. My grandmother was so classy and so loving. She was the sweetest person I knew, next to my mother, of course. My mother’s neighbor also shared that as a young girl, my mother was taught how to care for others. My mother was a caregiver, but not just for the sick and ill; she cared for everyone.
Fast-forward to today, I think it makes perfectly good sense for me to care for her. Out of all of the traits and qualities I reflect on my mother, it’s my ability to care and love for her that I am able to connect with. In order to effectively care for her, I must love her. I also believe those two traits go hand in hand; they must be present in all capacities when attempting to meet the needs of others with dependencies such as hers.
During a trip to a rehabilitation session for my mother, I observed how healthcare professionals interacted with other patients. As my mother received physical and occupational rehabilitation, there were others present who also had suffered from similar ailments as her: stroke, brain injuries, motor vehicle accidents, and more. Their degree of disability varied, but what they all had in common was a need for the assistance of others. I witnessed how the therapists managed each individual. It was obvious that the goal was to improve their client’s quality of life and lessen their dependence on assistance, but getting to that place required some work.
I learned that it required a genuine love for people. I believe that the therapist must have really loved their work and, most importantly, loved and cared about their clients. I also felt as if I was in a familiar or sort of friendly and accommodating environment. Possibly because I embody those same qualities and depend on them daily while caring for my mother.
As I continue to care for my mother, I am at peace knowing that not everyone is equipped to be a caregiver. It is not for everyone. It doesn’t mean that I am better or greater than anyone; it only means that I have decided to allow my heart to lead me. I am so grateful for the opportunity to show my mother how much she is appreciated and that all of her hard work didn’t go unnoticed. She deserves to be loved each and every day. 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!
ToBeReal
By Terry L. Watson
Photos Provided by Melissa Williams
Melissa Williams of Greenville, SC, describes herself as a woman who is deeply committed to living authentically and helping others do the same. Her journey has been shaped by an insatiable need to break away from the constraints and limitations society has imposed on her as a Black woman and a mother. She shares her experiences, both personal and professional, that have guided her toward creating a life and career that aligns with her true self.
ToBeReal. This is the brand that Melissa has produced. She says, “I delineate it as a brand because it is a lifestyle, not limited to a product or service. At its core, it is an ideological stance and a resistance to assimilation. We are also a community created with the intention to empower others to live from a place of authenticity and self-awareness.”
ToBeReal offers free wellness resources via its website. Melissa also conducts workshops in casual or corporate settings designed to help individuals connect with their authentic core. She also focuses on creating an environment where people can explore who they truly are and take actionable steps toward living in alignment with their values. Melissa has also published a book, How to Thrive in Winter, and it is available on Amazon.
“There’s something incredibly powerful about helping someone peel back the layers and connect with their authentic core.”
“Parenting my son has pushed me to reparent the child in myself and give her permission to be who she is.”
Co-authored with Lauren E. Smith, How To Thrive in Winter is a workbook designed to help individuals understand and manage the effects of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and other forms of depression. The workbook aims to provide readers with tools and strategies to identify and understand how authenticity is connected to wellness. It includes exercises and prompts to reflect on habits, feelings, and goals, offering practical tips for positive change. The book encourages the readers to have an open mind and a willingness to grow, emphasizing that wellness is rooted in truth, joy, gratitude, and creativity. It outlines various strategies to enhance mental wellness, focusing on boosting the “happy chemicals” (dopamine, oxytocin, serotonin, and endorphins).
In the book, Melissa shares her personal journey of dealing with depression and the realization that “winter” can metaphorically represent challenging periods in life. She emphasizes the importance of understanding and accepting oneself as a powerful tool in overcoming mental and emotional challenges. The workbook encourages readers to trust their journey and process the information in ways that suit them best.
More than anything, Melissa shares that she loves witnessing the moment when people connect with themselves. “There’s something incredibly powerful about helping someone peel back the layers and connect with their authentic core. When I see participants embrace their truth and take off their masks, I know they will overcome identity challenges and create lives that truly reflect who they are,” she says.
ToBeReal began as a book club under the name Melevation517. Melissa, that was a ridiculous name. She adds that the Covid pandemic made mundane thoughts seem so grand. Her vision gravitated to being a podcast, which only had five episodes, mainly due to Melissa being too busy to commit to consistently recording. She would eventually arrive at the place where ToBeReal was established as her brand. “It’s who I am, and even if I don’t produce something every day or every week, I don’t feel the pressure to perform,” she says. “ I focus more on staying grounded in my ideologies and seeking support when needed. Whether it’s through mentorship, continuous learning, or simply taking time for self-reflection, I’ve found that staying connected to my “why” helps me navigate the ups and downs.”
Melissa says that being a mother has had the biggest impact on her life. She adds that motherhood has been the best mirror, and it has helped her understand who she is and what she needs. “Parenting my son has pushed me to re-parent the child in myself and give her permission to be who she is,” she says.
Building her brand has come with a few challenges. However, Melissa appreciates how things have happened. She says, “There isn’t much I would change about how my journey has played out. Every challenge and misstep has taught me something valuable and has ultimately led me to where I am today. If I could offer one piece of advice to my former self, it would be to trust the process more and not be afraid of taking risks or failing.”
Melissa says that it’s easy to get caught up in what others think you should do, but the most fulfilling path is the one that resonates with your true self. She says, “Don’t be afraid to ask for help and always be open to learning. Surround yourself with people who uplift you and challenge you to be your highest self, but most importantly, who listen to you.”
Melissa says ToBeReal’s future will be focused on expanding its reach and deepening its impact. She says, “I’m excited and proud of my book, How to Thrive in Winter. It will be the blueprint for future offerings. I also plan to host an annual retreat starting next year. On a personal level, I’m excited to continue growing alongside the brand, exploring new ways to connect with my community, and staying committed to the mission of helping others live authentically.”
McGinnis Huntsville Housing Authority
By Terry L. Watson
McGinnis
Antonio McGinnis of Huntsville, AL, prefers to allow the work that he does to speak for him. As the Executive Director and CEO of Huntsville Housing Authority, Antonio
Born and raised in the same community that he serves is very meaningful to Antonio. In Huntsville, he grew up in Mason Court/Sparkman Homes, a public housing community. Though he was raised in a singleparent home, Antonio says his father was very involved in his life. His father also worked for Huntsville Housing Authority, and this allowed Antonio to see his dad on a daily basis. He attended Terry Heights Elementary School and Stone Middle School and later graduated from Butler High School. At Butler, in 1991, he was an all-state basketball player. He would go on to play basketball at Texas A&M University on a full scholarship. In 1995, Antonio graduated from Texas A&M with a Bachelor’s degree in Journalism. He also obtained a Masters degree in Public Administration from Strayer University. Antonio’s life has been completed with his wife of 13 years, Mitzi, and together they have two boys, Kendell, AJ, and Ian.
Where Antonio is currently serving should not be a surprise to those who are familiar with the trek he has taken in life. Yes, he grew up in public housing and attended the Sparkman Homes Boys and Girls Club as a youth. There, he says he found out who he was going to become. “Because I grew up in public housing, my connection is a little different from that of
I know firsthand, and I can relate to members of our communities. When I was growing up, I really didn’t understand why I was in this space. Now that I am in this space, I know it was because I needed that experience to serve better.
Photos Provided by Antonio
someone who didn’t grow up in public housing and doesn’t necessarily understand the people they are serving. I know firsthand, and I can relate to members of our communities. When I was growing up, I really didn’t understand why I was in this space. Now that I am in this space, I know it was because I needed that experience to serve better. Being from Huntsville can be tough, but knowing a lot of the communities, I can’t move as others wish I could. Due to policies and procedures that are in place, I am limited in what I can do. Whenever I can provide assistance, I am going to do just that. Most importantly, I want to help members of our communities learn that public housing doesn’t have to be their final stop. My testament should serve as a testament,” Antonio shares.
As the leader of Huntsville Housing Authority, Antonio is responsible for the organization’s total operation. He manages a $16 million dollar budget, 1600 public housing units, and 2000 Section 8 vouchers that are distributed to the community to find housing for families who want to move out of the public housing sector and rent homes from private landlords. “We are a high-performing organization, and I am the face of it. When we get our report card, it says that we have checked the box. We take care of the properties we have,” he says.
Earlier this year, the Huntsville Housing Authority was awarded a $50 million dollar grant by HUD, called The Choice Neighborhood Planning Grant. This grant is given by HUD to select agencies that fit the criteria for redevelopment throughout the country. Though Antonio wasn’t serving in his current role when the application was submitted for the grant, in 2019, when he returned, he was part of a team that finalized the process. Initially, they received a $1.5 million dollar planning grant. They utilized those funds to revitalize Butler Terrace. That grant also allowed them to compete for the $50 million dollar grant. They partnered with the City of Huntsville and found a developer, McCormack Baron Salazar, based in St. Louis, MO, which helped them to connect with some social services organizations. With all of the connections that were made, they were able to secure the grant in July.
With the grant money that Huntsville Housing Authority has been awarded, Antonio shares the goal is to transform lives. “We are going to build neighborhoods where people of all demographics can live together, and provide services that will help people excel. We may have people from all walks of life living in the same community, regardless of economic status. This will be a reflection of a true community that reflects who we are,” he says.
While Antonio leads an organization that is designed to help people in the Huntsville community, he emphasizes their goal, which is to help people become self-sufficient. “I am a big proponent of one of our programs, called the “The Family Self Sufficiency Program”. It allows families to develop their own five-year action plan. In those five years, it gives them an opportunity to plan for the next five years. They are assigned a case manager to walk them through the plan, and at the conclusion of the five years, if the families complete everything they have set out to do, their rent, which is placed in escrow upon signing up for the program, is given back to them in the form of a check. They can use that money to purchase a home, clear their debt, or whatever they want to do with it.”
When asked what he loves most about what he does, Antonio says it’s the opportunity to allow others to see who he is and where he comes from. He also credits his parents for inspiring him also. “My mom raised three boys who are doing well. My dad was a solid guy and took good care of me.”
In the future, Antonio shares that he plans to do his part to position the Huntsville Housing Authority to be successful. He also wants to continue to build leaders and use his life to be an example of what can be accomplished in life, regardless of where you come from.
Chicago Board of Education Approves the District’s New Five-Year Strategic Plan
Information obtained from Online Press Release
The Chicago Board of Education (CBOE) Wednesday voted unanimously to approve the District’s new five-year strategic plan, an ambitious and equity-focused vision to drive a rigorous, joyful, and equitable daily student learning experience and a continued upward trajectory in key academic metrics through School Year 2029. Called “Success 2029: Together We Rise,” the plan was developed over the past year with input from students, families, educators, community members and CBOE members and builds off of the District’s pandemic-era Blueprint which bridged the prior five-year plan to the one approved today.
This new five-year vision comes as the District celebrates many important initiatives and academic accomplishments, from boasting some of the nation’s top schools to showing significant post-pandemic academic growth, as well as passing a more equitable needsbased Fiscal Year 2025 budget and putting more resources into exploring and planning for the success of Black students, students with disabilities, and other student groups that have been historically underserved.
CPS posted a record-breaking four-year graduation rate of 84 percent in 2023, a number that has been increasing annually for the past two decades. In a national post-pandemic education scorecard, CPS ranked #1 in reading growth and #3 in combined reading and math growth from 2022 to 2023 out of the 40 large urban districts reporting to the Council of the Great City Schools. Preliminary 2024 state assessment data showed students continued their upward academic performance.
“Chicago Public Schools students, with the guidance and support of parents, educators, and community partners, continue to make important academic gains and we are proud of our collective success to date,” said CPS Chief Executive Officer Pedro Martinez. “This five-year vision outlines how we will build on our momentum and lead bold and transformational changes to improve and expand on positive daily practices and outcomes for all students, and especially those who have been furthest from opportunity.” The plan can be viewed at http://cps.edu/fiveyearplan and sets the District’s vision and mission for the next five years.
