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There Are No If, Ands, Or Buts About It!
Somethings Aren’t Meant To Be Explained There Are No If, Ands, Or Buts About It!
A Letter From from The Editor A Letter the Editor
One of the greatest waste of time is that of someone who uses A Letter from the Editor it to search forifanswers to the various complexities has to offer. What tomorrow didn’t arrive? All of yourlife plans, hopes Sure,and there isn’t anything wrong with striving for perfection, or dreams wouldn’t have a street to park on. What if even seeking improvement. I have personally dealt with some things that everything that you decided to put off until tomorrow never What if tomorrow didn’t arrive? All of your plans, hopes I wished the outcome would have been favorable, and in dealing with happened? would beano reason to save a rainy and dreams There wouldn’t have street to park on. for What if them, I caused myself more strife by holding on when I should have day, and you could someone theuntil trouble of making everything that youspare decided to put off tomorrow never moved on. I believe we serve ourselves a disservice when we try to promises. What your last happened? Thereif would be opportunity no reason toseemingly save for aexpired rainy make sense out of something that has been declared as senseless. today? wouldspare you do? day, andWhat you could someone the trouble of making promises. What your opportunity seemingly Only God knows all,ifand if Ilast never learn anything else inexpired my life, I I’ve been told that I often seem like I do too much.plausible today? What would you do? know for sure that man isn’t God. Though it may not sound Honestly, I feelthat likeGod I amdoesn’t not doing enough and I’m firm to to others, I believe want us to know theaanswers believer in knowing that God wouldn’t put anything on I’ve been told that I often seem like I do too much. everything. If we did it might spoil the experience he promisesme on our that I couldn’t handle. I sometimes wonder how life would Honestly, I feel like I am not doing enough and I’m a firm day of judgement. be if I chose to sit idle and accept whatput it presented believer in knowing that God wouldn’t anything to onme. me I have found that to be very boring. In my opinion, opportunity I couldn’t handle. something I sometimes wonder howthat life would Forthat example, I misplaced very important I really is a blessing that isn’t afforded to everyone. A challenge be if I chose to sit idle and accept what it presented to me.I I needed. After looking for it nearly two weeks, I never found it. to me is an adventure. What is the worst that can happen? have found that to it bebefore very boring. Inweek my opinion, prayed that I would find the third arrived opportunity because at If I do nothing, I fail, and if I try I don’t, but instead learn is a blessing that isn’t afforded to everyone. A challenge that point it would have been too late. The third week came and to something new about myself. Relinquish your pride and in to me is anmy adventure. What the worst happen? my misfortune, lost item was aniseven biggerthat losscan for me. I never return acquire life. I do nothing, I fail, for andand if I try I don’t, but instead foundIf what I was looking even after asking God tolearn help me to something about myself. Relinquish your pride and in locate it, nothingnew happened. The best advice return acquire life.ever given to me happened when someone toldhave me to make my tomorrow In doing There been individuals I have happen crossed today. paths with that so have pressed mymy way through doors with a key only have Igreatly impacted life. Their presence leftthat indelible The best advice ever given tosheer me happened when someone hopeme provided. Imy have also learned the difference between impressions on that have helped shape and mold me into the told tome make tomorrow happen today. In doing so person I amGod today. Little didwith I know thatlife time, the modest blesses andat what canabut burden me with Iwhat have pressed my me way through doors with key that only gestures ofprovided. kindness and during moments as well. I compare itcompassion toalso knowing when to bedifficult confident and hope I have learned the very difference between actually helped to pull me ofand the jaws of despair. I had no goals when to be quiet, because what God blesses meout with what life can burden me with or dreams, but they spoke of lifeknowing and what it was to once I someone may getbeit like confused as well. I compare it to when togoing be confident and opened my eyes and saw as God madewhen it. with being to bearrogant. quiet, because someone may get it confused God cared enough for me to place Make you tomorrow with being arrogant. certain happen people in my life at most specific today, but moments to carryout His intentional importantly make it count. Make you tomorrow plan. While I may fall at times and Life is but a whisper and happen today, but most fall short His glory, He made weofmust putmake ourselves in a importantly it count. preparations so my purpose would position what it is still Life is buttoa hear whisper and be fulfilled. I know don’t deserve telling us.putI ourselves we must in a His grace and mercy, and I can admit that position to hear what it is things should have gone another way. telling us. What I don’t know is how and why, Terry L. Watson because God’s love doesn’t require an explanation.Editor/Founder
www.huamimagazine.com Editor In Chief
Terry L. Watson www.huamimagazine.com Alana Allen - Deputy Editor Editor In Chief
TerryWriters L. Watson Alana Allen - Deputy Tonya Dixon Editor Terry L Watson Terry L. WatsonPublisher Writers Alana Allen Tonya JeuronDixon Dove Writer Dawn C. Thornton Terry L. Watson Safiya Nelson Alana Allen Writer Photographers Dr. Marrissa Dick Dove Writer PerfectJeuron Lenz Photography Terry L.Shaw Watson Writer Photography Group Photographers Still Shots Photography Tamara Smith Lenz Photography Who Shotya Photography HowardPerfect Gaither Photographer Shaw Photography Group Ashleigh Crawley Photographer Still ShotsLayout Photography Toni Shaw Photographer Who Photography MykelShotya Media Company Sherwin Evans Linda Bennett Photographer Layout Howard Gaither Photography
Mykel Media Inquiries Company General mykelmedia@yahoo.com Linda Bennett huami.memphis@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 Mykel Media Company, LLC E-mail at terrywatson@huamimagazine.com P.O. Box 20102 terry.editor@yahoo.com Greensboro, or toNC 27420 HUAMI MAGAZINE Mykel Company, LLC 2014 Media All Rights Reserved Box 20102 2017P.O. All Rights Reserved Greensboro, NC 27420 HUAMI MAGAZINE 2014 All Rights Reserved
On The Cover
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CONTENTS
Angela Kelley
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Nov./Dec
Cutest Baby
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2017
Oh Just Us Girls
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Also Inside..........................
Sherri Scott of Smooches
Patrycya Williams
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Time For A Celebration Huami Magazine Turns 10
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Hair Hope Growth Oil Maya Ifeanyi
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Garrett Davis
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Funeral Planning Service Carlton L. Gray
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Irokei Creates
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Smooches Boutique Skin Care
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Sherri Scott
Terry L. Watson Photos by Sherri Scott Thanks to Sherri Scott of Memphis, TN, now almost everyone can have soft and smooth skin. In July of this year, she launced Smooches Boutique Skin Care on a desire to improve the condition of her own dry and maturing skin. It all came about after she started researching the best methods to accomplish this without harsh chemicals. In her research, she learned the incredible restorative benefits provided by natural butters and oils like Shea, Mango, Jojoba, and Avocado. She started by blending these and other natural ingredients and created four fragrant, whipped body butters. Now, in under six months, Smooches Boutique Skin Care has expanded its inventory to include nine fragrant body butters, body scrubs, whipped soap, body oils, organic body washes, beard oil, and lip care. Currently in the testing phase, Smooches will launch BLUE, an organic skin care system and hopefully take residence in a brick and mortar in early 2018. Sherri Scott is a firm believer that if Christ puts a dream in someones heart, He also gives them every opportunity to bring it to fruition. She is a mother of one, a two time self-published author, full-time college student advocate, and part-time college instructor. She can now add small business owner to her list of accomplishments, and one who has dabbled in video blogging, podcasting, Continued on the next page Memphis - Nov./Dec. 2017
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and facilitating positive, youth-focused community initiatives. Scott’s favorite past-times are reading a good book, enjoying the company of good friends and family, and creating new and interesting products for Smooches Boutique Skin Care. Intrigued by the lush feel and beauty of a store bought body butter with “unpronounceable” ingredients, Scott challenged herself to create the same silky texture using all natural ingredients. She began experimenting and sharing her creations with friends and family. Enjoying the products, they encouraged Sherri to sell them to the general public. She did so and Smooches became a reality of all of her hard work and dreaming. “What I love the most about the business of Smooches is hearing how people love the products. It makes me feel like I’m doing something right when people enjoy something I made from scratch, right in my own kitchen. It’s all love. love creating and sharing great smelling products that restore, nourish, and promote healthy skin,” she says. Scott says she is mostly inspired by her mother and daughter. “I was inspired to pursue higher education, write and publish the books that were in my heart, and bring Smooches to fruition. I understand my influence as a mother and want to show my daughter the importance of working towards your dreams,” she says. She’s inspired secondly by her journey as an entrepreneur as a whole. In it, she’s learned so much about herself, people, and business. “My family is made of up people who worked for themselves, but I never thought I’d ever take on being an entrepreneur as a venture. I watched my mother run a successful business as a hairstylist for years and learned a lot about discipline and commitment from her. I have a vision for Smooches Boutique Skin Care and while I still have a lot to learn, I’m loving this personal journey and I’m loving the fact that my daughter and mother are watching and praying with me for its success,” she says.
For more information, Contact Sherri L. Scott (901) 281-4907 scott4122005@yahoo.com Carlton Gray 88
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All of Smooches Boutique Skin Care products are hand-crafted, made to order, and have a base of the best natural (plant-based), nourishing, and restorative butters and oils and are fragranced with either essential, vegan, or fragrance oils. Customers can also enjoy custom creations using their favorite perfumes and colognes. Just in time for the holidays, Smooches will debut “Play Mates,” gift pack bundles, gift certificates, and a host of stocking stuffers. Look for Smooches to continue to expand both products and services in 2018!
Angela Kelley is The Match Maker www.aplusintroductions.com
Single For The Holidays
The holiday season is just around the corner, and many singles feel anxious about their current relationship status. Often this time of the year is tough on those who wish they were involved romantically. There are family holiday gatherings, church events and workplace functions centered on couples. It is easy to get disillusioned and to feel left out if you are not seeing someone special. It can be tempting to settle in for the long winter nights dwelling on your loneliness while eating a big container of ice cream. However, there are many more positive ways to get proactive and add love to your life instead. Here are a few ways to make the most of your singleness during the holiday season:
Sparkle socially-- You can expect to get invited to lots of festive events over the next several weeks. Your loving family and wonderful friends will want to include you in their plans. Make a point of accepting their invitations and to inquire in advance about the other guests that have been invited. If there are going to be any other singles, be sure to request an introduction in advance. Most hosts will be delighted to play matchmaker for the evening. You can be certain that the host will make charming comments about you and you will feel more comfortable knowing that there will be someone else single with whom you may share a fun-filled evening. (If your host has not included any other singles guests, remind him that you’re in the market to meet someone new) Create some magic-- If you have not made plans for the holidays, seek out others that might be in the same situation. Invite a few of your close single friends to join you at a local coffee shop or neighborhood meeting spot. Agree to stay for a set amount of time and to spread the joys of the season (offer compliments to others as they enter, sing silly holiday songs and encourage others to join in the fun, practice random acts of kindness). The point of this is to get out and have fun! Not only will you keep yourself in a fun state of mind, you will also make new friends. By keeping your energy level high, you will increase your chances of attracting a like-minded, high-energy potential mate. Share your gifts-- The holiday season is the perfect time to highlight your talents and to use them in a positive way. If you are a talented, talkative extrovert, why not consider taking a role in a community production of a holiday play? Or maybe you should volunteer to wrap gifts or to play Santa. If you enjoy cooking and entertaining, invite family and friends to celebrate with you and encourage each person you invite to bring along one single person. By developing your individual skills and interests, you are becoming a more attractive mate and encouraging others to want to learn more about your potential for a relationship. With a little advanced planning and a sense of adventure, singles can create very special moments throughout the holiday season. Whether it is hosting an elaborate party, visiting a local coffee shop, or reconnecting with old friends, the opportunities to mingle are abundant. It’s the most wonderful time of the year and you owe it to yourself to enjoy every minute of it!
@TheTriangleMatchmaker
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A Mykel Media Company, LLC Publication
November 2007 The First Edition of Huami Magazine is released for Greensboro, NC
A First for Greensboro, A First for Huami Magazine The word is getting around, Huami Magazine has arrived!
January 2017 The First Edition of Huami Magazine is released for Charlotte, NC
September 2017
September 2017
September 2017
The First Edition of Huami Magazine is released for Richmond, VA
The First Edition of Huami Magazine is released for Memphis, TN
The First Edition of Huami Magazine is released for Nashville, TN
January 2017 The First Edition of Huami Magazine is released for Raleigh/Durham, NC
September 2017 The First Edition of Huami Magazine is released for Greenville/Spartanburg, SC
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By Terry L. Watson Photos by PK Williams
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K Williams Enterprises is a boutique company that utilizes the S.I.P.S. (Strategically Increase Promote Secure) method to enhance and manage the brand portfolios of entertainment, small business, profit and non-profit clientele. They provide a plethora of public relations, publicity, event planning, entertainment consultants, artist development, and marketing expertise. They also offer a “hands-on” individualized approach, ensuring success and exposure as they embrace the variances of each client’s unique talents. The company’s intent is to make sure their clients are treated professionally and afforded supreme sustenance while aspiring to reach their dreams. Patrycya Williams, the founder of PK Williams Enterprises is a relationship cultivator, event strategist, and social broker. Her corporate expertise as a Marketing and Public Relations Manager in a Fortune 500 company served as a catalyst in building her own company. As CEO, she is multifaceted and instrumental in creating opportunities for her clients. “I began in the music and entertainment industry in January 2010, but my networking and relationship cultivating began in 1996 and continued through my transition into the mortgage industry in 2002 - 2011. I started doing marketing and public relations for artists in January 2010 and that transitioned into managing and brand building clients images while creating events that enhanced their image through release parties, book signings, etc.,” she says. “We do brand development, event planning, securing speaking engagements, and creating public relations opportunities. I also scout talented aspirants for stage plays, independent films, and local/national television appearances”.
PK Williams Enterprises, LLC PO Box 1563, Nolensville, TN 37135 615-364-7964 www.pkwilliamsenterprises.com
“We do brand development, event planning, securing speaking engagements, and creating public relations opportunities. I also scout talented aspirants for stage plays, independent films, and local/national television appearances.”
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Williams loves to see people live out their purpose and fulfill their dreams. She also gives back to her community by educating and mentoring youth. She recently partnered with her junior high school Alma Mater, Joelton Middle School in Nashville, Tennessee to provide mentoring and tutoring services to students there. This is an opportunity that she is very excited about. Making the transition to from being gainfully employed to self-employed was not easy. “Going from a substantial corporate America pay check to working for myself was challenging. I didn’t make my husband very happy, but he has always been supportive,” she says. Instead of looking for a job, Williams decided to hire herself. She knew she could always count on herself and could never be fired, let go, or downsized. She looked at the need of the people around her to see how she could fill a void or bless others. “If I help enough people, God will continue to bless my efforts,” she says.
Going from a substantial corporate America pay check to working for myself was challenging. I didn’t make my husband very happy, but he has always been supportive.”
In September 2017, Williams brought something new to the city of Nashville, Power Moves Awards Gala. The mission is to celebrate and honor the leaders of the community for their unparalleled commitment to civic and social responsibility while raising awareness to citizens and entities for which the leaders advocate and advance across their respective communities on a daily basis. The event was held on the same day as the Tennessee State University John Merritt Classic, and sold approximately 250 tickets. “To be able to bring together community leaders and our community on a day like that for our black tie event was monumental. It was well received and we were mentioned amongst some of the biggest names in awards shows in Nashville by one of the major local news channels. We were mentioned with the Country Music Awards, Dove Awards, and the Stellar Awards. I think we really made an impact and we are looking forward to next year,” says Williams.
She is currently planning her first annual Power Moves Awards Gala that will be held in August of 2018. There are also plans in the making to create a bigger online presence with partnerships and work with others to grow her mentoring program with local youth. Be on the lookout for PK Williams Enterprises and Patrycya Williams. They are making moves and making the dreams of others a reality. h
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By Dawn Cauthen Thornton Photos by Shaw Photography Group Imagine going to college, selecting your major, mapping out your life plan after you graduate, then being pulled in a different direction. As a young student at Fayetteville State University, Garrett Davis had it all figured out. He was a Radio/Television Broadcasting major and was the youngest program director in the nation, of a 100,000 watt NPR affiliate radio station. His goal was to one day own his own station. In addition to his major, he decided to minor in speech and theater so he could take a few acting classes. Just to scratch an itch he’d had, he became involved in a play, attended the NADSA (National Association of Dramatic and Speech Arts) conference (acting in the same play) and came home with an award for Best Supporting Actor. His theater teacher hounded him to pursue acting, but his heart was set on radio.
Pictured with Garrett are (from left to right) Amanda Simmons, Kynya Milan, Tiffany McMasters, and Javon Bell
By chance, shortly after, he attended a professional play, for the first time, and was absolutely in awe. He immediately went home and penned his first script for “Lord, Why Me? Another itch was scratched and he tossed the pages in the closet without a second thought. A few years later, he had the opportunity to become the General Manager at a radio station in Raeford, NC. “Not only was I the GM, but I was the morning man, the sales guy, the janitor, you name it. I was everything. “ Apparently, the station didn’t have much money to spend on extra employees, so Garrett stepped in to help them out, in many ways. As a fundraising effort for the struggling station, Garrett had the bright idea to produce the play that he had written years prior. Surprisingly, the show ran for three days and sold out each day. He moved on to Fayetteville, NC and the show sold out there as well. Then, he made a deal with himself; “If the play sells out in the next city, I’m going to quit my job and pursue this full time.” You guessed it…the show sold out! Garrett ended his stint in radio and started touring the country with the play he’d originally closed the door on. “In those days, it was just me, a caravan of cars (the cast), and a pick-up truck with furniture on the back. We didn’t even have a real set.” The play would travel from city to city several times a year until others took notice and started writing and producing plays of their own, providing a bit of competition for Garrett. Also on the scene was a little-known guy, at the time, named Tyler Perry. He changed the game when he presented his signature character Madea and created elaborate sets to go along with his celebrity cast members. To just keep up and continue to perform, Garrett decided he needed to step up his game. “It forced me to write more plays so I could visit the same city with something different each time.”
“Not only was I the GM, but I was the morning man, the sales guy, the janitor, you name it. I was everything.” Garrett Davis
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Garrett put pen to paper and cranked out several more scripts which allowed him to continue touring. Life was great, he was gaining a following, and more opportunity presented itself. He was even contacted by Tyler Perry’s personal promotor who wanted to utilize his play, but unfortunately after a few months, the deal fell through and Garrett’s entire team was out of jobs. By that time, the ambitious playwright needed a break from the industry. He was disappointed, he was tired and vowed to never do another play again. That feeling didn’t last long and he found himself creating more scripts. One “Forgot Me Not”, is about the relationship between him and his late grandmother who suffered and ultimately succumbed to Alzheimer’s. “I felt guilty because I wasn’t there for her while she was dying. She would often ask my sister and mother about me but I always seemed to be busy. So I wrote the play as therapy to help get over that.” Because “Forgot Me Not” focused on Alzheimer’s, many people resonated with it. It was originally supposed to run for three days, but that turned into 30 consecutive days at a playhouse in Winston Salem. Knowing that a good friend’s mother was also battling the same heartbreaking illness, he called her to see if she would be interested in partnering to bring it to other venues. That friend was Bern Nadette Stanis, better known as ‘Thelma Evans’ on the former hit show “Good Times”. They decided that it was imperative to use this production as a teaching tool to bring awareness to the disease that affects African Americans at twice the rate of any other race. With the success of this play, Garrett realized he was on to something. He became passionate about the health of his community and brainstormed ways to he could continue to educate. “I became heavily involved with the Alzheimer’s Association. And I became the first African American to receive the Advocate of the Year award for my work with the play.” Not stopping there, Garrett decided to focus on other areas of health that plagued blacks the most. He partnered with AARP who sponsored his play “Mama’s Girls”, about sisters caring for their aging mother. It ran for almost 5 years, traveling across the country. That partnership truly launched Garrett’s career and helped solidify his place not only in the theater world, but also in his own community where he saw the greatest need. “It put me on a national spotlight to raise the awareness of caregiving.” It also afforded him the opportunity to connect with others just as passionate as he was about health. And because “Mama’s Girls” was such a hit, people began asking more about his previous play that focused on Alzheimer’s. He soon became one of the founding members of the African American Network against Alzheimer’s alongside Honorary Co-Chairs Al Sharpton and former Surgeon General Dr. David Satcher. To date Garrett has written, directed, and toured over 25 productions, five of which are a part of award winning projects. His current project “Daddy’s Boys” will be touring nationally beginning in January 2018. He’s also setting his sights on film and television and currently developing “Taking Care of June”, a series about the patriarch of the family being diagnosed with dementia.
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Garrett confesses that in his younger years he had planned to be the next big name. He wanted everyone to know who he was and to be famous like most entertainers. But his destiny was much bigger. God had a different plan. With the support of his 23-member staff and his family, his name still sits atop marquee’s and on billboards, but now his purpose has shifted. Instead of just merely entertaining and getting a laugh, he prompts conversations within households. He forces his audience to consider their own wellbeing and that of their families. “I was initially writing plays on love and relationships but that’s not what God wanted me to write about. I’m not Steve Harvey or Tom Joyner or Madea. I have to be the first Garrett Davis. Trying to be someone else forces you to get their leftovers. I want what’s mine not what somebody else had.” It’s so easy to see someone else’s success and desire to have their ideas, their lifestyle, their fame. But it’s evident that what God has h for you is for you. And Garrett Davis is a testament to that belief. Pictured with Garrett is his wife Dr. Carol Montage-Davis
“I was initially writing plays on love and relationships but that’s not what God wanted me to write about. I’m not Steve Harvey or Tom Joyner or Madea. I have to be the first Garrett Davis. Trying to be someone else forces you to get their leftovers. I want what’s mine not what somebody else had”. Garrett Davis
GDavis Productions Garrett Davis www.gdavisproductions.net 910-728-3389
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Jurry Smith
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By Terry L. Watson Photos by Jurry Smith irst and foremost, Jurry Smith of Nashville, Tennessee, is a husband and father. His devotion is offered without compromise to everything that he involves himself with, whether in the workforce, at his church, or in the community. His flexibility and dependability are attributes that have also helped him build a fashion business from the ground up, Genesys Apparel.
“I am creative and have an eye for things most people can’t see. I’m a stylist and a designer. I am my brand and today’s versatile man, whoever that may be,” Smith says. “My clientele ranges from pastors to lawyers, entrepreneurs to socialites. I even style young men needing formal attire for school functions.” Smith opened the doors of Genesys Apparel to the world on the day he got married. That day served as a statement for him, because he believed that weddings shouldn’t just be special for the bride. Smith wanted his own signature style that would also be authentic. “I designed my tuxedo, which was gold and trimmed in Sangria with our wedding date monogrammed on the inside. I also wore a custom shirt with my initials on it. I was so nervous that it wouldn’t look right, my measurements would be off, or that my bride wouldn’t be pleased; but it was perfect and my bride loved it. Soon, I started looking for manufacturers to make my dream a reality.” The identity of Genesys Apparel was very important to Smith. “I wanted to represent Christ in whatever I did. I wanted people to see themselves in the image of God, because He thinks highly of us. So I based Genesys Apparel off of the book of Genesis 1:27 - So God created man in His own image,” he says. Genesys Apparel offers custom men’s suits and tuxedos, jackets, and shirts. They offer men’s accessories which include ties, bow ties, pocket squares, and lapel pins. They also do special orders for groups and organizations, and there are plans in the works for personal styling services for the individual who have things in their closets that can be utilized, but need a little help on learning how to make it work. Smith decided to use his gift to help other men who desired to stand out but need a little help with getting started. Seeing the confidence that exudes from his customers when they try on their custom piece for the first time, Smith says gives him a sense of relief and achievement. “Occasionally, a client may lose or gain weight during the process of designing a suit which throws off the measurements. I am blessed that I haven’t encountered anything that I couldn’t resolve in a timely fashion,” says Smith. Smith doesn’t take the credit for the success of his business. “I owe it all to God. He never ceases to amaze me. He has afforded me many opportunities to make my name great and to introduce Genesys Apparel to various markets,” he says. Moving forward he plans to continue serving Nashville and surrounding states. Contact Jurry Smith and Genesys Apparel for all of your unique fashion needs. h
Jurry Smith Genesys Apparel www.genesysapparel.com 877-293-6906 21
By Terry L. Watson Photos by Maya Ifeanyi Hair Hope Growth Oil is a blend of natural and essential oils, formulated to improve the overall health and strength of hair and help it grow longer, thicker, and faster. With a wide range of products, creator and owner Maya Ifeanyi has designed growth oils, shampoos to deep conditioners, hair growth vitamins, whipped Shea Butter for hair and body, and a men’s line that consists of growth oil for hair and beard. She also has a Shea Body Butter especially formulated for men. Ifeanyi says her hair products are natural and help to accelerate hair growth while our body butters helps nourish the skin. “I am an artist, music lover, world traveler and in the last three years a business owner. I lived in South Korea for four years and have traveled to India, Africa, Japan, and Mexico among several other countries. Traveling inspires my creative side and has taught me many things about natural herbs and oils and how they are used for health and healing in other cultures. My mother calls me aone woman whirlwind,� she says.
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Ifeanyi unofficially began her business in early 2012 while teaching English and Art in South Korea. “The water there is very hard and is usually only used for bathing. Bottled water is used for drinking and when cooking. I had no choice but to use the same water source to wash my hair. After a year in Korea, my hair started to thin and break. I went on a mission to find natural oils and herbs that would help my hair to stop thinning. I tested many natural oils over a year’s time until I found the mixture that worked the best and the fastest. When I returned to the United States to live, I started making the oils for my friends and family. To my astonishment, everyone was amazed at how well it worked and how fast their hair grew,” she says. As a person who has worn her her in a natural statre for 35 years, Ifeanyi knows first hand the struggles of finding ways to manage it. “There was a time when there were no products for natural hair. We had to make our own and learn what worked best for our hair by trial and error. My mother and grandmother mixed up a little bit of everything to try on my hair,” she says. Because of experiences such as these, she was inspired to start her business because of a lack of high quality products for black hair. “I wanted to create a product that worked for all hair types and textures,” she said. In 2014, Hair Hope Growth Oil became an official business. After only three years in 2017, IIfeanyi added an entire product line. Hair Hydration by Hair Hope evolved her product line to include everything needed to sustain healthy hair.
and many other things. I have 24 hour work days, several days a week and I’m exhausted more often than not. I have little free time but it is all worth it when I watch my business continue to grow each day,” Ifeanyi says. Hair loss is a very sensitive issue and most people become frustrated and embarrassed when experiencing thinning, balding, and excessive shedding and breakage. Ifeanyi has received thousands of emails from customers showing photos of their hair before and after using Hair Hope Growth Oil. Ifanyi says had it not been for her ancestors who worked extremely hard and sacrificed for her family to have a solid foundation to stand on, she would not have the opportunity to run her own business. “They worked hard to instill in my family, the importance of education, hard work, resourcefulness, and benevolence. The combination of these values, passed down from generation to generation, created in me the strength and determination required to build a business from the ground up. I can feel the strength of my ancestors in me and I am thankful for their protection and guidance,” she says. Moving forward, Ifeanyi plans to continue to work hard to expand her company. “It requires a lot of sacrifice and many sleepless nights but it has taught me that nothing is impossible and the sky is definitely not the limit,” she says. It sounds like Natural Hair Hope Oil and the other products Ifeanyi offers will be around for a long time!
To earn the capital to start her business, Ifeanyi worked two jobs for a year. Most weeks, she worked seven days a week. She had to sacrifice all extra expenses and live on a very tight budget. After working 18 hour days, she would come home to work on her dream. “I had no idea how to start a business, but I spent every free moment studying and learning what was required to start a business. It was not an easy task but after a lot of hard work it happened. I only had five online sales in my first week of business. I was devastated and later called my mother in tears. After all that hard work, it did not seem to be paying off. I told my mother that I was going to give up on my business and go back to being a teacher. She told me that I was not going to quit because “we do not come from a family of quitters”. I dusted myself off and learned the importance of advertising and social media promotion. The next week, orders for Hair Hope tripled and continued to do so week after week. After my first year in business, I was receiving so many orders that I could hardly keep up with the demand,” she says. Three years later, Hair Hope products are sold in many beauty supply stores and salons in the USA as well as in Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, Australia, South Korea, Trinidad, Tobago, and several other countries. “If I had given up because of low sales in my first week, I would not be where I am today.” Being a business owner comes with it’s own set of challenges. “I love the freedom of working for myself, making my own hours and my own rules. I make all of my products by hand and run the business side as well. I have help every now and then but usually I handle everything on my own, including manufacturing, order processing, shipping
Maya Ifeanyi Hair Hope Growth Oil www.hairhopegrowthoil.com
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RaShawn Bolar
OhJust
Us Girls
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By Terry L Watson Photos by Photography By Lechele & Allison Bell Photography For the lady who loves to shop, there is a mobile boutique in Richmond, VA where it can be done at a location of choice. Oh Just Us Girls is a mobile boutique on wheels that brings shopping to you. They offer affordable apparel for the trendsetting woman on the go in sizes small to 3X. Their customers are sure to leave the boutique pleased, as it is fully equipped with a dressing room and full-size mirrors for you to try on, take off, and try on again, until you find that just right piece. Owner RaShawn “Niki” Smith-Bolar loves what she has to offer. “When shopping on the truck, we expect all of our customers to experience style, affordability and most importantly, convenience. Our average customer is between the ages of 30-45, a group who loves our contemporary, trendy yet unique pieces,” she says. RaShawn wears many hats. She is a wife, mother of a 10-year-old son, Christian, full-time School Counselor with Henrico County Public Schools, and serves as the Program Director at Grace Haven, a girl’s residential facility located in Hanover County. Oh Just Us Girls was formed in 2009. It began by providing a wonderland of events to ladies of different genres who harnessed a cutting-edge, and who also loved to be pampered. The initial mission was to promote fashion-forward products from unique exhibitors, as well as encourage a bit of pampering and primping. “We anticipated our events would bring awareness and exposure to various charities, while providing some funding to support them. The first event, OH JUST PAMPHER ME Shopping Soiree was held in March 2010 at the Richmond Convention Center. It was a huge success and invoked a passion within us to find other businesses to support owned by women. However, as life would have it, we decided to go in a new direction and thus, five years later the Oh Just Us Girls Mobile Boutique was launched on July 4, 2015. RaShawn has always had a passion for fashion and once operated a brick and mortar business in Colonial Heights, VA along with her husband, Dr. Lawrence Bolar called, PurseSuit of Happiness. She has an eye for simple looks with a unique flair that everyday women can feel confident and comfortable in. She opened this fashion truck knowing she could share her style with as many women as possible around the Richmond area and surrounding counties with the ability of being mobile. She even offers private shopping parties in which the hostess is able to earn rewards and free clothing based on party sales. In August 2017, after 400,000 votes cast and 4,000 boutiques were nominated around the world, Oh Just Us Girls was named and awarded the 2017 Virginia Mobile Boutique of The Year. This honor was awarded to them by The Boutique Hub.
shopping and provide a creative way of bringing products to my customers. I also established great relationships with other fashion truck owners who mentored me as I was going through my fashion truck journey. As a result of those relationships, I have been able to collaborate, establish, and encourage others who are now on their journey.” To keep the wheels of Oh Just Us Girls turning, Rashawn often reflects to the source who makes it all possible. “My faith in God and always knowing that with Him all things are possible is what sustains me. Without Him, life is uncertain and I would never have been able to successfully begin this business and carry out my vision,” she said. In the future, Rashawn plans to develop an app that will allow her customers to track where to find the truck, learn of upcoming events, and book a boutique party and more. She will continue to host an event, “Where Fashion and Friends Meet” and collaborate with other women in business to bring exposure to their brands, empower one another, have fun and of course, allow customers an opportunity to shop!
The boutique offers affordable apparel for the trendsetting woman on the go. Rashawn says besides enjoying the comfort and convenience of not having to deal with the long lines at the mall, customers are able to make appointments to have a one-on-one personal shopping experience. “We even deliver purchases locally to customers who just can’t make it to the truck and need that special item. Our best sellers on the truck are dresses and tops as we offer many pieces that are oversized and look amazing on all shapes and sizes,” she says. While seeking to create positive connections with their customers, Rashawn recently began a loyalty rewards card program. Customers have the opportunity to earn punches that will eventually lead to a discount on a future purchase. It’s the tokens of appreciation that Rashawn provides that has assisted in establishing a great customer base and help make the boutique a staple in the Richmond community. Mobile boutiques have grown in popularity over the last few years and women enjoy shopping in a smaller boutique atmosphere. “I personally enjoy selecting the clothing and do not purchase items that I would not wear myself or give to another person. I do limit my activity during the winter months and the truck usually goes into hibernation. But we are ready to hit the streets again in the spring,” she says. “I love the fact that I can offer a new way of
Oh Just Us Girls www.ohjustusgirlsmobile.com 804-221-9385
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huami MAGAZINE
Cutest Baby
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Irie Hollerman
To submit photographs to be placed in the Huami Magazine Cutest Baby feature, please send a The daughter of Aquirra Hollerman and Leslie Hollerman detailed email to huami.cutestbaby.com Photo provided by Aquirra Hollerman
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Mary Ann Adams IRS Enrolled Agent
T/E General Accounting & Tax Service
1105 East Wendover Ave. Suite D Greensboro, NC 27405 336-265-8348 / 336-235-1912
maryannadms@aol.com
Contact Me Today for the 2017 Tax Season!!
Tax Cuts & The Jobs Act
On November 2, 2017, the U.S. House of Representatives, Committee on Ways and Means introduced The Tax Cuts & Jobs Act, according to Chairman Brady “Today marks the beginning of the end of our nation’s broken tax code. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act will deliver real tax relief to Americans across the country – especially low and middle-income Americans who have been struggling for far too long to earn a raise and get head”. The Act is supposed to be the biggest tax cut in history, but, how it effects your family will depend a lot on where you live and how dependent you are specific deduction. The proposal decreases the personal tax brackets from seven to four: zero, 12, 25, 35, and 39.6 percent. It doubles the standard deductions for most taxpayers. However, the proposal eliminates the personal exemption amount. They increase the child credit to $1,600 per child and extend the credit to those earning $230,000. The proposal eliminates the Alternative Minimum Tax, but repeals most exclusions and itemized deductions. The exceptions are mortgage interest (capped at $500,000 and no second mortgages), state and local property taxes (capped at $10,000) and charitable contributions. The proposal would also slash the corporate income tax rate to 20 percent making American business more competitive in the world. Small Business “Pass-Through” entities get a special 25 percent rate, but 30 percent will apply to business income.
So, What Is Repealed Tax Preparation State And Local Income And Sales Taxes Medical Alimony Moving Casualty Losses Medical Savings Accounts Employee Expenses Employer Provided Housing Employee Achievement Awards Dependent Care Adoption Assistance Some Education Related Provisions The question remains will it pass? These are the GOP’s proposed tax cuts and are subject to change. GOP leadership will probably have a difficult time rounding up the necessary votes required to pass the Act with such a large list of repealed, exclusions, and credits.
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Advance Planning Or Pre Plan Funeral Arrangements Information and Photo provided by Carlton L. Gray
T
he very idea of discussing or talking about death can be very difficult, however it is one worth having with your loved ones. It has many advantages, among them peace of mind. Knowing that you have a plan in place not only eases your mind, but your loved ones will not have the extra burden of the unknown.
There are many details that immediately begin when a death occurs. Research has listed at least 101 items that every survivor will be confronted by on the day of death of a family member. From contacting other family members, friends and community to selecting and meeting a funeral provider. Advance planning can relieve much of this by having these important tasks already in place.
The following are some methods of funding your final expenses; personal insurance policy, pre-need policy purchased from the funeral home, or private funds or savings. I encourage every adult regardless of age, married or single make this a part of your important to do and have list. In life there are a lot of unknowns but, it is sure and certain that every person that is born will lay to rest eventually. With this being known why not approach it with the importance it deserves. h
“In life there are a lot of unknowns but, it is sure and certain that every person that is born will lay to rest eventually.�
The first step is to discuss with significant others your desires and final instructions. Secondly, meet with a funeral provider of your choosing. By doing this ahead of time you can take your time and investigate and or compare services and cost without the immediate pressure and stress that death, especially sudden death can bring upon a family. Once you have a funeral provider you can then begin to formulate your wishes and directives in a carefully laid out plan. This could be from a simple direct cremation to a full traditional service followed by burial or cremation. The third step is to consider how you will pay for these plans and make provisions ahead of time. The advantages of this is you can have control over the amount of cost and in some cases, guarantee that your service will be protected against future inflation.
Raleigh, NC’s Prominent Funeral Service Provider 2810 Kidd Road - Raleigh, NC 27610 919-231-6120 www.carltonlgrayfuneral.com Charlotte - Sept./Oct. Memphis - Nov./Dec. 2017 2017
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Irokei Woods
Jewelry Designed & Entrprenuer 30
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What is Irokei Creates
Irokei Creates is a business owned by me where you can buy handmade jewelry. And I sell necklaces, bracelets, earrings, headbands, and other things that I create for girls and boys. I picked my own name.
Who is Irokei?
I am a artist, creator, and first grader. I am 6 years old. I like to make jewelry, I am a Girl Scout, and I take ballet. I live in Memphis, TN. I like to travel to places like Iowa, Illinois, and Florida.
When and how did you begin? I started Irokei Creates because my mommy is a creator and I wanted to do it too. Irokei Creates started about a year ago when I was 5.
What does you love most about your business? I love selling jewelry to people and that they will pay for things I make. I like to try making new things and use different types of beads. My favorite thing to make is necklaces. I also like that I get to teach other people how to make jewelry and other art.
What inspires you the most?
My mommy inspires me, she helps me make jewelry. Grandma inspires me because she helps me at events. My whole family supports me because they buy stuff when I make it and they help get me supplies. They help me alot. I am also part of a group called 901 Kidpreneurs, lead by Tamika Heard. I get to have events with other kids who also have their own businesses.
Describe some of things you create. Earrings, necklaces, bracelets are the main things I create at this time. I use different types of beads to make jewelry. I create different sets that include bows, earrings, and bracelets. My mommy also helps me create Mommy and Me sets.
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Five Years of Grace & Mercy 32
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Kristie Wallace Barrow Shares Her Story of Survival Who am I? It might be easier to tell you who I’m not. I am not a quitter. I’ve been through things that would have possibly killed the average person. It was through these trials where I found myself and learned that I am not easily defeated. Yet, as I wipe the sweat from my brow, I know that it is only by the grace and mercy of God that I am alive today. Simply put, I am a wife, a mother of four, daughter, sister, and friend to many. I love God and am not ashamed to tell the world that I do. I’m also a woman that loves life and ask the same of others. I am a (ride or die) type of girl. I am down for the cause and loyal, but foremost, I am a team player. I am trying to live my best life until I die, but I refuse to die while I yet live. Yes, I am ‘Living Pink’! My Diagnosis I remember it like it was yesterday. I got the call at work on the seventh day of January 2005 around 3:00 pm. It was a Friday and I had been looking forward to the weekend but things would soon deter any plans I had thought of making. In a few shallow words, my surgeon told me that I had breast cancer. I was only 29 years old and never knew of anyone so young having breast cancer, so I immediately thought my life was coming to end. I immediately planned my funeral. I called my circle of friends and close loved ones, telling them the news while inside I was a nervous wreck. I cried for three days straight until I made it to the altar on Sunday at my home church, Cedar Grove Tabernacle of Praise. I was surrounded by my family and friends and as soon as we said “Amen”, survivor mode was in full effect. I bought a survivor t-shirt and bumper sticker, but there was no escaping the inevitable reality that Cancer would change my life forever. The things most people take for granted like birthdays or even watching their children basketball games, bring me joy. I know that it could have easily been the other way. Second Time Around Eight years later when I was faced with breast cancer again, it was different. My second diagnosis made me angry. I felt like I was a target for disasters. I remember asking my mother, “why me?” I didn’t hang out, I didn’t drink, and I wasn’t in the club. I couldn’t understand why I was having to go through this again. God spoke to me and said “why not you”. He used little ole’ me to let people know He is in control and still performing miracles. I am a walking miracle. Both times I was diagnosed with breast cancer in my right breast. I could have easily been misdiagnosed. I found my lump in 2004 while I was pregnant with my fourth child Kelcey. While speaking with midwives each month leading up to my delivery, I was told that I shouldn’t worry about the lump because they were sure it was my body getting ready to breast-feed. I am truly thankful that I still chose to have the lump removed.
My Life Doesn’t Belong To Cancer I was diagnosed with Stage 1 Breast Cancer in my right breast and had a Lumpectomy followed by radiation. Eight years later when the cancer returned, my only option was to have my right breast removed. I then made the very hard decision to remove both of my breasts. After many surgeries, I am still here and still cancer free! As crazy as it sounds, Cancer saved my life. Although I was healed I was still dying from cancer. I feared a recurrence so I was not living. I was not growing in any area of my life so therefore I was slowly dying. I allowed the disease to consume my life for eight years, before I decided to take my life back. Until someone is faced with an illness that kills people daily, you cannot truly understand its power. My second diagnosis saved me and I got my life back and found my joy. Many times we are so obsessed with what we don’t have, that we do not celebrate how far we have come. Now I celebrate everything and I don’t take anything for granted. I try my best to live worry-free and I know who holds my future, and because I know I’m in God’s hands, I have joy! h
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January 2018
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