Huami Magazine Cleveland Jan./Feb. 2022 by Terry Watson

CLEVELAND

Jan./Feb. 2022 Volume 1 Issue 6

We Are Carter’s BBQ Cleveland - Jan./Feb. 2022

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www.cartersbbqonline.com

Expectations andOrThe Truth ThereMy Are No If, Ands, Buts About It! There Are No If, Ands, Or Buts About It!

A Letter From The Editor

A Letter from the Editor

I would have to say that I grew up poor by world standards. I never felt like it because my mother constantly poured A Letter from the Editor unconditional love into my other siblings and me. Her love What if tomorrow didn’t arrive? All of your plans, hopes wouldn’t allow me to focus on what I didn’t have or anything and dreams wouldn’t have a street to park on. What if I could be missing. However, astolife I realizednever everything that you decided puthappened, off until tomorrow What if tomorrow didn’t arrive? All of your plans, hopes that when compared tohave others, my experiences were more happened? There would beano reason to save a rainy and dreams wouldn’t street to park on. for What if complex. Even still, I had the opportunity to overcome them. day, and you could someone theuntil trouble of making everything that youspare decided to put off tomorrow never

promises. What your last happened? Thereif would be opportunity no reason toseemingly save for aexpired rainy One of the most important things Ithe learned from my today? What would you do? day, and you could spare someone trouble of making upbringing that the truth will always override my expired promises.is What if your last opportunity seemingly expectations. very first car seem that Ilike owned, I purchased I’ve been told that I often I do too much. today? WhatThe would you do? forHonestly, myself. ItI wasn’t a new vehicle, but it was mine. had a feel like I am not doing enough and I’m It a firm fewbeliever dents, and the tires either. The heaton or me air in knowing that Godmatch wouldn’t put I’ve been told that Ididn’t often seem like I do anything too much. conditioning didn’t work, and the exhaust pipe would shake that I couldn’t sometimes wonderand how would Honestly, I feelhandle. like I amI not doing enough I’mlife a firm likebeliever a leaf when the car, probably it to was be if I chose toI started sit idle and accept whatput it because presented me. in knowing that God wouldn’t anything on me I being held in place bybe the of a In close hanger. With all of have that to very boring. my opinion, opportunity that I found couldn’t handle. I wiring sometimes wonder how life would is aifblessing that isn’t to what everyone. A challenge its be imperfections, my carafforded wasaccept a beauty in itmy sight, and wasI I chose to sit idle and presented toIme. toappreciative mefound is an adventure. What is the In worst that can opportunity happen? have thatto toown be very my opinion, very it. boring. If aI do nothing, if I try to I don’t, but instead learn is blessing thatI fail, isn’tand afforded everyone. A challenge something new about your pride andit in to me is an adventure. the worst can happen? Though it seemed likemyself. IWhat droveis Relinquish that car forthat all eternity, only return acquire life. If I do nothing, I fail, and if I try I don’t, but instead learn survived one year with me. I didn’t keep gas in the fuel tank, new about Relinquish andcold in andsomething I never changed the myself. oil either. I drove ityour fast,pride and on The best advice ever given to me happened when someone return acquire life. mornings I didn’t allow it to warm up. Rarely did I bathe it or told me to make tomorrow happen today. In doing soand even provide it withmy routine or preventative maintenance, I have pressed myever way given through doors with key thatsomeone only TheI knew best advice to me happened when before it, my first and only method ofatransportation hope provided. I have also learned the difference between told me to make my tomorrow happenof today. In doing so slowed down and shut off in the middle the road. blesses and what cana burden with Iwhat haveGod pressed my me waywith through doorslife with key thatme only as well. I compare it to knowing when to be confident and hopeI provided. have learned the difference between See, expected Imy caralso to run forever, but the truth is whenlife tocan be quiet, because what God blesses me with and what burden me with I never did anything to ensure that it would. I expected may get it confused well. I compare it to knowingsomeone when to be confident and myascar to go when I needed it to but never considered my with being when to bearrogant. quiet, because thoughtless and erratic treatment’s impact on it. I expected to someone may get it confused ride forever, but the truth is I never invested in my cars’ future. Make youarrogant. tomorrow with being happen today, but most I’m saying that we willitonly get importantly make count. Make you tomorrow out of life we put it. How Lifewhat is but a whisper and happen today, butinto most will weimportantly ever expect to know God we must putmake ourselves in a it count. if we never spend time with Him? position what it is Life is buttoa hear whisper and My goal inmust lifeus. isput to win. For this telling we ourselves in a to happen, I must be willing position to hear what ittoisdo what istelling necessary us. to win and align myself withTerry what isL.true, which is Watson God’s expectations.

www.huamimagazine.com Editor In Chief

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

TerryWriters L. WatsonPublisher Terry L Watson Alana Allen - Deputy Tonya Dixon Editor Terry L. Watson Dorjea’ McClammey Writer Writers Alana Allen Ellen Richardson Writer Tonya Dixon Jeuron Dove Terry L. Watson Terry L. WatsonWriter Alana Areille Kilgore Allen Writer Photographers Dove PerfectJeuron Lenz Photography Tamara Smith Shaw Photography Group Bernard Smith Photographer Photographers Still Shots Photography SantanaPerfect B Photographer Lenz Photography Who Shotya Photography Ashleigh Crawley Photographer Shaw Photography Group Still ShotsLayout Photography Who Photography MykelShotya Media Company Linda Bennett

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Mykel Media Inquiries Company General mykelmedia@yahoo.com Linda Bennett huami.cleveland@gmail.com (336) 340-7844 HUAMI MAGAZINE is published bimonthly quarterly by the mykelmedia@yahoo.com Mykel Media Company. Any reproduction of any 340-7844 portion of (336) this publication is prohibited without

written MAGAZINE permission isfrom the publisher to HUAMI published quarterly prior by the doing so. Mykel Media doesn’t accept responsibility Mykel Media Company. Any reproduction of any for statements by individuals featured or portion of this made publication is prohibited without advertisers. Comments concerning this publication written permission from the publisher prior to be Media submitted to the editorresponsibility by doing so. may Mykel doesn’t accept Email or Telephone E-mail at terrywatson@huamimagazine.com for statements made Email by individuals featured or terry.editor@yahoo.com terry.editor@yahoo.com advertisers. Comments concerning this publication 336-340-7844 or toto the editor by may be submitted Media Company, LLC E-mail atMykel terrywatson@huamimagazine.com P.O. BoxCompany 20102 LLC Mykel Media terry.editor@yahoo.com Greensboro, 27420 Greensboro, or toNC NC HUAMI MAGAZINE Mykel Company, LLC 2022Media Rights Reserved 2014 All Rights Reserved P.O. Box 20102 Greensboro, NC 27420 HUAMI MAGAZINE 2014 All Rights Reserved

On The Cover

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Editor/Founder Want To Advdertise? Terry L. Watson Please call Photography 336-340-7844 Photo by Shaw Group Editor/Founder November/December Want To Advertise? Call (336)340-7844 Terry L.2014 Watson On The Cover

HuamiMagazine.com

November/December 2014

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CONTENTS

CLEVELAND

JAN./FEB. 2022

The Confidence Coach

Brian K. McNeill

Her Life Has Purpose

Timika Thompson

M.A.D.E.

Keyon Smith

On The Cover

Carter’s BBQ

Darren and Theresa Carter

Cherished Occasions Catering

Theresa Graves

Huami Magazine Cutest Baby

Railyn Kate

Also Featured

Attorney Justin Camper If you are in business, you will need a business lawyer. Learn more about his journey of becoming an attorney. Indianapolis, IN

Lynique Browning She is a multi talented entrepreneur and full of ambition. Learn more about the Mad Diva. Los Angeles, CA

We Are Carter’s BBQ 6

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Cleveland - Jan./Feb. 2022

By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by Carter’s BBQ

For Darren and Theresa Carter, barbeque has become everything for them. They are the owners of Carter’s BBQ, a BBQ food trailer and catering business based in Cleveland, OH. Some of the products they offer are St. Louis Ribs, Pulled Pork, Smoked Brisket, Grilled Chicken, and more. Darren was born and raised in Cleveland. He graduated from Bedford High School and later attended Cleveland State University. While in college, he became president of the college chapter of the NAACP. Under his leadership, the chapter was awarded and recognized for being the best in the nation. When not running their business, Theresa also works as a software engineer and has many years of experience in application development and training. A Cleveland native also, she has a Bachelor’s degree in IT (Information Technology) and a Master’s degree in Teaching and Learning with Technology. Theresa is a woman of faith and says her passion for education fuels her life. Additionally, she loves spending quality time with her husband and family, which she says is very important. “I adore all my children, whether biological, adoptive, foster, god-children and others,” she says. Theresa and Darren state that working side-by-side can be challenging, as they seek to balance life and work with children and other responsibilities. “Though when you love what you do, it’s all worth it,” they said. Darren’s love for cooking began growing up as a child in Cleveland. He recalls how he watched his father cook on his barrel grill. “I was amazed at how much work he put into cooking, and by the responses people had when they ate the food he cooked. I knew then, even as a child, that when I grew up, I wanted to do the same thing,” Darren shares. Theresa keeps her mother’s recipes alive through her side dishes. She grew up being in the kitchen with her mom and learned first hand the work and love her mother put into cooking.

Cleveland - Jan./Feb. 2022

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As Darren began his cooking journey, he would follow a similar path that his dad created by cooking for his family. He admits that he burned a lot of food. He didn’t become discouraged but stayed the course and eventually became a better cook. He became a student of his craft and learned the processes and nuances of cooking barbeque. He studied other pitmasters to learn their cooking techniques and methods. Darren’s cooking skills improved, and soon he was cooking using his own sauces and rubs. Darren says his family always loved his food, but the real test was to get the public’s approval. Darren’s love for the craft of BBQ began to show as he posted his smoked meats on social media. His followers began to comment on how they would love to taste his food. “I began to sell rib dinners, and the response was great. We sold out of everything,” he says. He would also cater an event, and the response was the same. Those experiences took place in 2019 and Carter’s BBQ was born. While the world was responding to the Covid 19 pandemic, Darren and Theresa took a step back and planned their next move for the business. Looking to take their love of BBQ to the next level, in 2021, they purchased equipment, including a custom smoker and BBQ trailer to enable them to share their BBQ all over the Greater Cleveland area and beyond. Darren says he is inspired by the craft of BBQ and the legacy of those who cooked before him. “These are our enslaved ancestors who tended the pits, which we believe are true pitmasters, to our mothers, fathers, and grandparents who carried those traditions on to us,” he says. Darren’s love for fatherhood and family encouraged him to establish the community groups, Cleveland Dads Group and All Geared Up - A Family Bike Event. Recently he created a Facebook group titled “The Unknowns Black Pitmasters,” which can also be found on Instagram. “I use these social media platforms to share the history of African Americans and BBQ, and to highlight current black BBQ enthusiasts who are carrying on our ancestor’s traditions,” he says. Darren says his passion for the art of BBQ and the gratitude he feels when he can feed people make it all worth it. It also pushes him to become the best at what he does with fire and meat. Theresa and Darren have plans to make Carter’s BBQ a full-time operation in the future, which will provide them with more flexibility and freedom. To learn more about Carter’s BBQ, please visit their website. h

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Cherished Occasions Catering 10

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Cleveland - Jan./Feb. 2022

By Dr. Marrissa DIck Photos by Santana B. Photography Scripture frequently mentions food in various contexts. In eating our daily bread, God encourages His followers to nourish their bodies and souls with nutritional and spiritual food. One way people can gain that nutritional food is through catering. The responsibility of a caterer is to prepare, deliver, and serve bulk meal orders to clients for special events such as conferences, celebrations, weddings, birthdays, and baby showers. People who need assistance with making their celebration a cherished and memorable event often seek outside help. One caterer frequently sought after for her nutritional value and creative ambiance is Theresa A. Graves, owner and founder of Cherished Occasions, Incorporated. Read as Theresa shares how she overcame homelessness to establishing herself as a sought-after catering entrepreneur. “I have been cooking for a very long time, especially since I am the mother of four children. I had to cook because it was too expensive to go out to eat, so cooking was something I had to do. Everyone from my grandparents, my dad, and my mom cooked, so I was fortunate to learn how to prepare good food from scratch. When my children were younger, they would bring friends home to eat, and they would always show up around dinner time. We were always asked to bring extra dishes during the holidays, I thought because I had a larger family, but that wasn’t the case. I noticed that every time we brought a dish, they were the first to go. It didn’t matter what type either. It could be my homemade yeast rolls with honey butter or one of my baked goods; it didn’t matter. Then someone asked if I would cook for their event. I was hesitant at first, but then I realized if I could cook enough for my children and the neighborhood kids, all I had to do was think of the event as though I was cooking for a large family. I was already doing it without realizing it. From that one event where I had cooked for 20 people soon turned to 50 people, and the next one turned into 100 people, and the rest is history,” Theresa shares.

Photo by Bay Mitchell

So how did a single mother of four become a well sought-after caterer? Theresa says, “I can truly share that starting Cherished Occasions was not easy, especially when you have four children with four different personalities to deal with. This business is a second chance at life for me, and it is also a legacy for my children. I am an African American woman who struggled with domestic violence and lived in a domestic violence shelter twice. You know, being homeless gives you a different type of drive. I mean I had four children, so I had to figure out how I would provide for them. They looked to me for safety, shelter, and food. When I tell you all of that was motivation enough to make me get up and make it happen. You know Romans 2:11 says, “For there is no respect of person with God.” If God can take me from homelessness twice, give me a wonderful and supportive husband, Lou, take care of my children and give me a catering business, then anybody can do it. He is still the same God. What He did for me He can do for you, too.”

“If God can take me from homelessness twice, give me a wonderful and supportive husband, Lou, take care of my children and give me a catering business, then anybody can do it. He is still the same God. What He did for me He can do for you, too.” 12

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Cleveland - Jan./Feb. 2022

Theresa, who is a native of Greensboro, realized for Cherished Occasions to be successful, she needed to refine how she organized her business. By accepting advice from her team and mentors, she soon realized that she needed to become a better listener, possess good energy, accept responsibility, and work through adversity. It suffices to say that Cherished Occasions has cultivated these essential elements. She shares, “I’ve been very fortunate to have all my children working with me at some point and time - - they don’t have a problem pitching in. Cherished Occasions was born out of necessity so it has always been hard work, but we have persevered and made it happen together. You must have good energy in your business. Energy is neither created nor destroyed, it’s simply transferred from person to person, so we try to make sure that we always have positive energy, especially when cooking.” Theresa says there were some mistakes made, and they still have some challenges, but says they have all been neccessary. “My own son who had been with us from the beginning had to walk away from the business because it was too much. I was too much! I had to learn how to talk to my people. I’m used to multitasking, so I expected everyone to operate like me. I expected everyone to have my mindset, my heartbeat, my pulse, and my work ethic, but that wasn’t happening. I didn’t realize that I was causing my children stress, so their way of telling me that I was causing them stress was to tell me, “Mamma I quit”! That’s how I knew I had to change things. I had to learn how to talk to my children as adults and employees and listen when they voiced their opinions.”

Cleveland - Jan./Feb. 2022

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Cleveland - Jan./Feb. 2022

Theresa shares she had to come out of mamma mode and go into employer mode. She had to learn how to switch those hats and found support from her husband, Lou. When things became tensious with her children as employees, they often reached out to him for assistance. It was then Lou realized he needed to step in and offer support. “Hey baby, listen I know you want to do this, but you have to listen to your team. You have to hear your staff. You’re working them to hard and you’re not working smart. Let’s see if we can do this differently,” Theresa states how Lou helped her. “How can I not listen to that advice, especially since he has over 26-years of restaurant experience.” While Theresa attempted to operate Cherished Occasions solely by herself, she was wise enough to embrace God’s support. “I listened to my people; I listened to my mentors, and now I understand how important communication and listening are to having a successful business. I’m also grateful that I have my church community, too. I have a spiritual mentor, a business mentor, and I have a Sista Girl who checks me when I’m out of place. It’s important to have people in your life who care enough about you to tell you the truth and help you look at things from a different perspective. When you have a client down on the books, they don’t want to hear that life showed up. For example, my sister passed away on a night we had a catering event. We were very

Photos by Bay Mitchell

close, and I was devastated. I just wanted to give in to my emotions, but one of my mentors told me there’s nothing I can do for her now. I decided to channel that energy and make that event happen for her. In doing so, my work ethic went to an entirely different level. Now I don’t see excuses. If I can get through that, I know I can get through anything.” There are many catering options available for people to choose. What makes Cherished Occasions stand apart? According to Theresa, “You know I don’t think people realize that they eat with their eyes, first. It’s that initial introduction to the food that makes your tastebuds water. We specialize in Soul Food cuisine and decadent desserts. I believe our black excellence makes us stand out, too. People don’t expect black businesses to be punctual, professional, or have staff with pleasant attitudes. I knew I wanted to show the world that Cherished Occasions is different,” she says.

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It was important for Theresa that her brand didn’t look like anybody else; She says it was equally important that her food didn’t taste like anybody else’s either. “We are not your ordinary caterers because we have persevered through some adverse conditions to honor our obligations to our clients. These moments include catering for a wedding when a tornado came through Greensboro in 2018. The wedding was not canceled, and I kept thinking about how we were going to pull this off with no power. The only lights that were working were the chandeliers, and those were running off a back-up generator. Soon I heard a voice say, “Trust Me” and I said, “Okay, God”, He showed up for us and we rocked that wedding out for 100 guests! When we think God is saying no, it’s not Him saying no, it’s the devil trying to keep you from where you’re supposed to go. To me, adversity just lets you know you’re close to where you’re supposed to be.” Another thing that makes Cherished Occasions stand out is their ability to prepare nutritious Soul Food. Their clients rave about their macaroni and cheese, and their honey butter is made from scratch so when you put it on cornbread, it’s just a party in your mouth. Their roasted and fried chicken is often a big request, along with mashed potatoes and green beans. They’ve also added a delicious vegetable medley to their menu. “We’re tickled when people who don’t eat vegetables compliment us on that dish,” Theresa says. They also have infused water for people who don’t like drinking water. Their desserts are very good as well. “The way we make our peach and apple cobblers with a caramel shot takes those desserts to the next level.” Theresa says that when a room goes from chatter and laughter to the sound of forks scraping plates until they’re empty, it is all worth it. That’s love to them.

Photo by Bay Mitchell

Theresa and Lou Graves Cherished Occasions Catering

336-455-5746 cherishedoccasions2018@gmail.com 16

So, what can we expect from Cherished Occasions in the future? “I think I’m happier about where we’re headed because we know the future is bright for us. Like the song says, “Your future is so bright that you gotta wear shades” that’s where we are. Due to COVID-19 we had to restructure some things, which really worked out for our good. From adversity came Cherished Occasions To Go, and we now offer private and more intimate parties. I am very fortunate that my husband has been there for me this entire time, never taking a paycheck. He sacrifices his time off to help with the business and is right there with me in the trenches, shoulder to shoulder,” Theresa says. Her advice to those who may follow in her footsteps is to believe in yourself and trust what God has given you. “You must be willing to think outside of the box and not be like everybody else. Cherished Occasions invokes happy memories. The Word of God shares in Ecclesiastes 9:7, “Go eat your food with gladness, and drink your wine with a joyful heart, for God has already approved what you do,” she says. It is clear that Cherished Occasions has received God’s stamp of approval. h

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Cleveland - Jan./Feb. 2022

I Am The MAD Diva By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by Lynique Browning

Lynique Browning is known as the Mad Diva. This multi-talented entrepreneur represents her home of Los Angeles, CA, fashionably. She is a licensed esthetician, certified makeup artist, certified bartender, and event coordinator. Her brands are the MAD Diva Concierge, MAD Diva Travels & Vacations, MAD Diva Media, MAD Diva Mixology, MAD Diva Makeup & Esthetics, and MAD Diva Meals. Originally from Ladera Heights, Lynique comes from a very large family; she has one sister and one brother, but she is the youngest of them all. She has always been a social butterfly also. “I know a lot of people, and because of that, I am making a lot of moves.” She has worked in the hospitality industry and entertainment finance, fashion, and more. These skills continue to play a huge role in her life and career. The Mad Diva brand has been built on hard work and opportunity. Lynique launched her business in 2010 initially as a makeup artist and esthetician. Before attending school for those skills mentioned, she worked as a bartender for celebrity events and private parties. “I’ve always known how to cook. I learned from watching my mom in the kitchen,” she says. Lynique’s media brand fell into place naturally as she gained experience by covering photography for the events that she booked.

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Lynique says she loves being able to network and meet people. She is also thankful for her opportunity to build an international brand while she travels across the globe. She says she is inspired mostly by her mother. She credits her mother for being consistent and laying a path for her to succeed. She is also motivated by her sister who has similar aspirations as Lynique does. Like most entrepreneurs, Lynique has faced some challenges. One of them has been loyalty. “I have sought the assistance of friends to help grow my brand, only to see them attempt to duplicate my business idea and turn their backs on me,” she says. Another challenge she has faced is constantly promoting and marketing her brand in business, something she says is costly and time-consuming. Lynique is well on her way to achieving every goal she has set for her life. While there isn’t much she would change about her journey; she wishes she had started earlier. By the looks of it, that shouldn’t hold her back from her purpose. She would offer advice to someone who may follow in her footsteps to stay around positive, motivated individuals and entrepreneurs. She says these individuals are always looking to grow and reach their best potential. Her plans moving forward are to eventually partner with a marketing company that can better promote her brand. She also plans to make the Mad Diva concept a household name. Please contact her directly or visit her website to learn more about Lynique Browning and The Mad Diva products and services. h

www.maddivaconcierge.com 20

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The Faces Behind a Purpose for You 22

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Cleveland - Jan./Feb. 2022

By Ellen Richardson Photos Provided by Timika Cousins Thompson

Domestic violence has been an ongoing problem in states throughout the United States for many years, including Virginia. In fact, the Virginia Department of Health has reported that over one-third of homicides occurring in the state in the last few years are related to domestic violence. While many of these victims become just another faceless statistic, some are doing their part to help bring a face to the warriors who refuse to give up and give in. One such hero is Timika Cousins-Thompson, the founder of The Faces Behind A Purpose For You. A woman who overcame years of abuse is now turning this negative experience into a positive one by providing support and encouragement to others who have or are trying to escape domestic violence. “Although I was a victim of domestic violence, I started this organization after losing a family member to this form of abuse,” said Timika. “This loss opened my eyes to what I was going through, and while that was hard enough, it also brought about something positive – it pushed me towards my purpose.”

Before the pandemic, we were invited into Richmond Public Schools to speak and educate youth on healthy relationships, no matter their gender or sexuality, and we got a great response. Working with our local school systems is something that we want to continue.” Timika’s organization also raised enough funds to hold a toy and food drive for needy families in the Richmond area during the holiday season. “It is interesting because we were able to share information about what we do and were surprised to have a few women ask for help during this time. I have always enjoyed helping my community and now doing so with a real purpose in mind feels very rewarding,” she says. Timika says that domestic violence isn’t acceptable for anyone. If you are involved in an unhealthy relationship, please let someone know and speak up. To learn more about The Faces Behind A Purpose For You organization and to find out more information about the upcoming plays written by Michelle Lee about Domestic Violence scheduled for April and May 2022, please visit their website. h

The purpose she speaks of involves giving birth to an advocacy organization that gives individuals who have experienced domestic violence. It also provides individuals with an opportunity to learn from their circumstances and understand they can continue to progress in positive ways and settings, despite past experiences. Focusing on the motto “it is not about us, it is about the lives that we can save” Timika offers life skills, individual development, enrichment activities, family support strategies, and activism to improve family relations and safe environments. “While I also had to overcome an emotionally abusive relationship, including the loss of one of my closest relatives to domestic violence, I make it a point to help others overcome. I strive to help others understand they are worth more and don’t have to endure emotional, verbal and/or physical abuse,” said Timika. Timika and her partner, Washington D.C. native play writer, Michelle Lee have continued to follow their Godgiven purpose to do whatever is necessary to help those who are displaced by domestic violence. “While we don’t yet have a shelter, we offer support services such as court stewardship, legal assistance, life and job training, as well as any other services that are needed outside of housing,” said Timika. “We recently started a mentorship program for teenagers and work with schools to develop a dialogue about unhealthy relationships. Growing from pre-teen to a teen and teen to an adult has its challenges, so we decided to be that haven for them to turn to when they find themselves in an unfamiliar or dangerous situation.

www.TheFacesBehindAPurposeForYou.org

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Cleveland - Jan./Feb. 2022

Justin Camper Law, LLC By Terry L Watson Photos Provided by Justin Camper Attorney Justin Camper says his life’s mission is to be a “Champion of Purpose”. He believes God created everyone for a purpose to do something to make the world better. Justin is known from his clients for being a genuine and passionate advocate, who goes above and beyond to provide the best results possible. He is a small business and trademark attorney located in Northwest Indiana. Justin completed his educational journer through Purdue University Northwest and obtained an undergraduate degree in Political Science. He received his law degree from Valparaiso University Law School. Next, Justin began practicing law as a Lake County Prosecutor in Indiana. He worked in the Prosecutor Office for one and a half years before transtioning to several law firms ranging in the areas of business, criminal defense, civil litigation, and municipal law. He also briefly worked as an Administrative Law Judge for unemployment. Today, he works in his own practice, Justin Camper Law, LLC, which he started in August 2020. He also works with Stidham Legal, P.C. as a contract attorney assisting with criminal cases. Within his practice, Justin says his main area of law is to provide small business legal services. These include, but are not limited to, LLC/nonprofit formation, contracts (drafting and reviewing), online legal protection, trademarks, copyrights, and business litigation.

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Justin shares he knows the process of hiring an attorney is often accompanied with many questions, and that is why he firm works to ensure every clients understands the services they are being provided with. “The first step is for us to work with our clients and come up with a plan to get the results they need. Through our understanding of the law and your understanding of the circumstances, we will craft a path to success,” he says. As an attorney, Justin shares he loves being able to help small business owners fulfill their dreams. “I am a small business owner, so I know what it is like to have a dream and vision of building a business. It gives me so much passion to help future entrepreneurs and current business owners protect and grow their business using legal strategies from my firm,” he says. “I’m inspired and motivated by small business owners who pursue an idea that helps change the lives of people. My vision is to live in a world where people can use their gifts and talents to create products and services that enable them to live in their God-given purpose.” Justin shares he truly grateful for all that he has encountered as an attorney, including the many ups and dows. He also shares if he could change anything about his journey, he would have focused more on business law from law school and taken on opportunities that would have given him experience for the type of law he practices now.,” he says.

www.justincamperlaw.com 219-281-6166 Facebook: Attorney Justin Camper Instagram @justincamperlaw

To anyone who is thinking of pursuing a career as an attorney, specifically business attorney, Justin offers some helpful advice. He says, “Fearlessly pursue your goal. If you want to be a small business attorney, do your best in law school and make great relationships with your colleagues, professors, lawyers, and businesses in your area.” In the future, Justin hopes to eventually expand his law firm and focus on different practice areas such as real estate and entertainment law. He also would like to advocate for small businesses and nonprofits continually through the government. Additionally, he hopes to create and invest into his own small businesses and nonprofits that are designed to help transform people’s lives. To learn more about Attorney Justin Camper, please contact him directly or visit his website. h

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Cleveland - Jan./Feb. 2022

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Cleveland - Jan./Feb. 2022

By Ellen Richardson Photos by Bernard Smith

When you envision someone starting a business from scratch, how often do you hear someone say that they started a business “by accident”? This is precisely the story of Debbie Leverette and her wellness company, Debbie’s Got The Tea. The Anderson, SC resident has always dedicated her life to helping others. She began her career path as a pharmacy technician, cosmetologist, and health care coordinator before realizing her chosen career path was doing more harm than good. “I was placing medications into the hands of people who had no idea what they were putting into their bodies. I needed a change.” After leaving her job in corporate America, Debbie found herself in a low place. “My life was in the garbage can at the time, so I asked God to help me. It was during that place that I remembered what my parents and grandparents taught me. I was taught before calling on the doctor for help, see what can be done naturally at home first,” she says. Growing up in a family that preferred using natural remedies, Debbie was accustomed to using such products to address any personal needs or health problems. She weighed the benefits of using a natural product versus something man-made, and the results were persuasive. She saw improvements within her own health and with one of her close friends who had tried her products. Soon word got around about her teas and their benefits. This is how Debbie’s Got The Tea was birthed; by word of mouth. In addition to her cold-pressed teas, Debbie also makes all-natural products that address skincare, hygiene, oral hygiene care, pain relief, sinus and allergy relief, hair care and growth, and sexual health. Debbie also addresses total wellness of the mind, body, and soul through individual consultations, motivational speaking, excercise sessions, group and business seminars, social gatherings, and mentorship programs. She is also a certified detox therapist. She offers detoxification of the total in this role, including lymphatic detoxification using wood therapy. Cleveland - Jan./Feb. 2022

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“After seeing how the all-natural products improved my overall well-

being, the first thing that I wanted to do was help others, especially women like me, to find their way to a better way of living as well.”

“Debbie’s Got The Tea is much more than amazing healthy tea blends. I have created a signature blend of herbs and flowers that provide my clients with a plant-based option, which is a better option for our bodies. I and many others are thriving because of not only what I make, but how I make it,” she says. Debbie said when she started her business, she was on many medications and going through a tough time in her life. This involved surviving a domestic violence situation which caused trauma and PTSD. “After seeing how the all-natural products improved my overall well-being, the first thing that I wanted to do was help others, especially women like me, to find their way to a better way of living,” she says. The desire to help others also led her back to school. She would soon obtain a degree in human services and even launched a campaign for county council in the community of Anderson County, SC. “I have always been told that if you want to see a change, you have to be the change that you want to see,” she said. Although she hasn’t been elected into office, Debbie knows God has a plan to continue to use her to make a difference, whether in the political realm, as an entrepreneur, or even as a famous talk show host.

Cleveland - Jan./Feb. 2022

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Cleveland - Jan./Feb. 2022

As a part of her healthy wellness company, Debbie has also started an online talk show called, The Tippy Show. With this production, she allows real, multi-faceted people to join her live, to discuss topics that matter to them. “These diverse topics can range from health and wellness, business, entertainment, and domestic violence. I allow my guests to use their voice to share their God-given knowledge and help others,” she says. Debbie confesses that none of what she has accomplished would happen without God. As the future comes, Debbie plans to continue her path towards addressing the mental, physical, and spiritual health needs of others. She also plans to add some new and exciting products to her inventory. To learn more about Debbie’s Got The Tea, please visit her website. h

www.debbiesgotthetea.com 864-634-8348

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Cleveland - Jan./Feb. 2022

The Sales Confidence Coach By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by Brian K. McNeill Brian K. McNeill of Charlotte, NC, is Brian K. McNeill is a true champion in the arena of “how to sell”. He has accumulated over 30 years of study and practice of professional selling. By his own count he has read over 700 books on Sales, Sales Management and Self Development. Brian has produced coaching programs, published several Best-Selling Books, and is committed to helping and serving others. The loving, caring husband and father is also a proud veteran of the US Army. Brian is the founder of The Sales Confidence Academy. In this capacity, he provides training and certification for entrepreneurs. He is the current president of Virtual Team Network, a global online networking organization. Brian exhibited signs of effectively communicating with almost anyone at an early age. He shares, “I entered the wonderful world of professional selling at the age of 23. That was 31 years ago. I soon came across some books about selling. After reading the first book, my interest grew, and before long, I had read several hundred books about sales. Some of the other topics were about Sales Management and Personal Development. The more I read, the better I became at selling. I eventually became a sales manager and my job. Sales and the knowledge and understanding of sales seemed easy to me, and soon I decided to start my own sales training company. Over the years, thousands of salespeople and entrepreneurs have benefited greatly from my sales training workshops, classes, and platform.” Today, he is recognized as Brian K. McNeill, the Sales Confidence Coach. In this role, he teaches entrepreneurs and salespeople what to say and do, to ensure they are confident and prosperous in selling themselves and their services. His services include Sales Coaching, Sales Training, Sales Speaking, and Sales Workshops.

Cleveland - Jan./Feb. 2022

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Some additional products include personalized and on-demand/self-paced sales training programs. He also has the Basic Essential Sales Training (BEST), a recorded seven-session curriculum covering the basic essentials entrepreneurs must know and the seven reasons why a client will say yes to you and your services. After completing the course, the entrepreneurs will have the correct language and confidence to sell their services successfully. There is also Get Profitable/Stay Profitable (GPSP), which includes everything in (BEST) plus a curriculum that teaches the entrepreneurs what to do with their time. Then finally, there is the Sales Confidence Course, the complete and updated course on How to Sell Your Services in today’s marketplace. One of the books that Brian has published is The Shortcut! - The Fastest route to Selling You and Your Services so that you earn more money than ever before! Another book he has published is Asking for the Money - How anyone can close more Sales, even you! Another publication is a children’s book, Why Rhinos Make Great Sales People - Featuring Mr. Randall the Rhino. Many of Brian’s typical clients are service-based entrepreneurs, Coaches and Consultants, Insurance and Financial Services Professionals, Attorneys, Accountants, and Bookkeepers. Brian has also founded the M.E.N (Male Empowerment Networks of Charlotte). This organization is a Support Discussion group that meets virtually twice a month and has been doing so since August 2013. “We know that men need men, and teenage men need men. So we provide a safe and transparent space for men to talk about anything.,” he says.

Brian K. McNeill The Sales Confidence

www.briankmcneill.online

Brian says he loves it when people take what he teaches them and earn more money as a result. “It brings me joy. I believe that God has uniquely gifted and qualified me to help people sell themselves and their services. My work is a ministry, and I honor God by helping people sell better,” he says. Moving forward, Brian shares he will continue to make his workshops available, especially through online courses, so that people can take the training on demand. To learn more about Brian K. McNeill, please visit his website. h

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Railyn Kate The daughter of Raisha Mercer and Dexter Bozeman

Cleveland - Jan./Feb. 2022

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