Huami Magazine Charlotte January/February 2018 by Terry Watson

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My Actions Will Make My Dreams A Reality There Are No If, Ands, Or Buts About It!

A Letter From The Editor

Happy New Year!

A Letter from the Editor

If I was to sit at home and dream about vacationing on a tropical island, my imagination would be the only island I would visit. In order What ifbeing tomorrow Allwith of your plans, hopesI for my physical to be didn’t able toarrive? catch up my imagination, dreams wouldn’t have a street todo park What if wouldand have to make arrangements for it to so.on. Such arrangements everything that you decided to put off until tomorrow may involve contacting a travel agent, purchasing tickets for anever flight, happened? There would be no reason towords, save for rainy will and booking a hotel room at a resort. In other mya reality day, and could sparebysomeone the trouble of my making only exist if anyou action is made me to breathe life into dreams. promises. What if your last opportunity seemingly expired today? What do? Some of the bestwould adviceyou ever given to me, came during a stormy season in my life. Though I wasn’t quite aware of what I was experiencing, someone whoI genuinely cared mymuch. present as well I’ve been told that often seem like Iabout do too as myHonestly, future threw me a life preserver. They told me to very close I feel like I am not doing enough and I’mpay a firm attention to what was going around me and not everyone believer in knowing thatonGod wouldn’t putthat anything on me and everything I was connected was purposed for me. “Don’t allow that I couldn’t handle. to I sometimes wonder how life would that or them to kill your purpose,” I clearly recall them telling be if I chose to sit idle and accept what it presented to me. II didn’thave know whatthat to do it then but the would become found towith be very boring. In picture my opinion, opportunity clearer for me at a later time. is a blessing that isn’t afforded to everyone. A challenge to me is an adventure. What is the worst that can happen? It was obvious to others thatifIIhad purpose my life, though If I do nothing, I fail, and try Iadon’t, butfor instead learn I wasn’t aware of it. As I tried to get along and fit in, the bottom something new about myself. Relinquish your pride and in appeared toacquire give way. return life.While the winds of my storm raged with intensity, I was pulled in one direction and knocked down in another. I began to seek help fromever others butto that complicated This The best advice given meonly happened whenthings. someone was totally out of character for me because I was “Mr. Independent” told me to make my tomorrow happen today. In doing so and accustomed to having all of the answers and handling things all by I have pressed my way through doors with a key that only myself. hope provided. I have also learned the difference between what God blesses me with and what life can burden me with Quite often I look back at that moment and realize it was God as well. I compare it to knowing when to be confident and working through them to reach me. Those experiences taught me a when to be quiet, because great deal about myself. I learned that someone may get it confused it is alright to be trusting and caring, with being arrogant. but to also be aware of those who have been sent by the enemy to stunt my you tomorrow growth. IMake also learned if I am running happen today, but most to something that is running away from importantly make it count. me, let it go. When I try to force my Life is but a whisper way into a situation that hasand proven we must put ourselves infor a I don’t belong there, I am asking position to hear what it is trouble. What God has for me is for us.for me to obtain it, I me, andtelling in order must act upon it to make it a reality.

Terry L. L. Watson Terry Watson Editor/Founder 4

HuamiMagazine.com 4 HuamiMagazine.com

www.huamimagazine.com Editor In Chief Terry L Watson

Publisher Terry L. Watson Allen - Deputy Editor DawnAlana C. Thornton Writer Dr. Marrissa Dick Writer Writers Terry L. Watson Tonya Dixon Writer Terry L. Watson Alana Allen Todd Youngblood Tamara Smith Photographer Jeuron Dove Photographer Ashleigh Crawley Toni Shaw Photographer Photographers Perfect Lenz Photography Todd Youngblood Photography

Lolitta Stanfield Editor Shaw Photography Group Still Shots Photography

Howard Gaither Photography Who Shotya Photography Layout

Mykel Media Company Linda Bennett

mykelmedia@yahoo.com huami.charlotte@gmail.com (336) 340-7844 (336)340-7844

HUAMI MAGAZINE is published bimonthly quarterly by the Mykel Media Company. Any reproduction of any portion of this publication is prohibited without written permission from the publisher prior to doing so. Mykel Media doesn’t accept responsibility for statements made by individuals featured or advertisers. Comments concerning this publication may be submitted to the editor by E-mail at terrywatson@huamimagazine.com Email or Telephone terry.editor@yahoo.com terry.editor@yahoo.com or to 336-340-7844 Mykel Media Company, LLC P.O. Box 20102 Greensboro, NC 27420 HUAMI MAGAZINE 2018 All Rights Reserved 2014 All Rights Reserved

On The Cover

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CONTENTS

CHARLOTTE EDITION

Gotham Beard and Balm Oil

Edgrick Holland

On The Cover

Alter Ego Body Studio Jasmine and Keema

NASHVILLE

YES Builds Consulting & Coaching Yolanda Shields

RICHMOND

Hey Jocey Joceyln Lynch

RALEIGH/DURHAM Favor Desserts Keijuane Hester

TRP Tax Solutions

Tamara Hicks

25 27 30

TRIAD

GREENVILLE/SPARTANBURG

The Birthing Movement, Inc. Naâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Tosha Brooks and Shayla Hilton Olivers Financial Planning Services Stacey Oliver

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2018

Katrina Davis

Pastor Richard Johnson

Huami Magazine Cutest Baby

August Jett

Also Featured Jessica Jordan

Inspite of the challenges, She is still finding her way to the top.

Carlton L. Gray

Rights of Disposition Planning Before Will Save You From Trouble Later

26 Justin Rhedrick

BitcoinVegan and Bitcoin Consultation

21 Charlotte - January/February 2018

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Charlotte - January/February 2018

By Dawn Cauthen Thornton - Photos by Todd Youngblood

There is no doubt that most people care tremendously about their outward appearance. From head to toe, both men and women invest money and time in all sorts of risky knife procedures and illegal muscle injections that will plump this and tighten that. One of the most rapidly growing industries in the country is cosmetic surgery and it doesn’t seem to be slowing down. Coworkers, business partners, and friends, Jasmine Clowney and Keema Brooks opened Alter Ego Body Studio in the spring of 2017 to not only get in on a piece of the action, but to provide a safer, healthier experience for someone looking to make slight changes to their physique. Their services include lipo laser, cavitation, sauna wraps, butt enhancements, and vaginal tightening, post operative care, among many other non-invasive procedures. The procedures are so seamless, that you can return to work the same day and function as you normally would. Hailing from Buffalo, NY, Keema, a licensed nurse, first became aware of the body enhancement industry by simply paying attention. “When I would go to the Dominican hair salon, I noticed women going to a different part of the salon and would come out wrapped up and looking a little different when they came out.” She relocated her family to Charlotte a few years later and continued working as a licensed nurse. While employed at a nursing facility, Keema met fellow nurse, Jasmine Clowney. The two continued their friendship after they both moved on in their careers but really had no plans to go into business together.

“When I would go to the Dominican hair salon, I noticed women going to a different part of the salon and would come out wrapped up and looking a little different when they came out.” Keema

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“Keema actually planned on opening the business with a few other people, but unfortunately it didn’t work out. She came to me with the idea and it sounded like something I wanted to invest in.” One attended classes in Atlanta and the other decided on facilities in Miami, but they both received quality training that they use to train their staff and others who are interested in possibly opening their own studio in the future. While preparing their own facility, Jasmine and Keema were blessed with a generous landlord who allowed them to quickly sign a lease and occupy the space the very next day. They equipped a group of family members with paint brushes and other tools, and proceeded to create their vision. Jasmine and Keema took it a step further and personally glittered the walls and desks for additional flare. Within two weeks, they were ready for a soft opening and a grand opening shortly followed with overwhelming interest. “We had way more customers than we expected,” says Jasmine. The ladies both practice what they preach and have had different procedures done, so they can give testimonies on their experiences. Keema is the proud mother of eight children, ranging from age three years old to 20 years old. “All of the procedues I’ve had I am very pleased with. Within the last few months, the studio ended the breast lift enhancement just to error on the side of caution because breast cancer is so prevalent. Though breast cancer is not linked, in any way, putting the customer at ease is their first priority. In March of 2018 they will expand their menu and include full spa services, including waxing, facials, body masks, and other body treatments. Keema is a licensed aesthetician and had previously planned to open a

Within two weeks, they were ready for a soft opening and a grand opening shortly followed with overwhelming interest. “We had way more customers than we expected.” Pink Sugar Slimming Cream 8

Sweat Bands

African Shea Butter

med spa. Now she’s incorporating both passions. The duo is also planning to embark on a Rock Hill, SC location in the spring of this year. If their business ventures weren’t enough to keep them busy, they both divide their time between jobs, family, and school. Jasmine helps to raise her nieces and nephews while preparing to further her education become the Medical Director of Alter Ego Body Studio. Keema has taken a break from being a nurse and spends the majority of her days in the studio creating the revenge body for her clients. Alter Ego Body Studio is Charlotte’s PREMIER body contouring facility. They have a variety of enhancements that range from $35 to $500, prices that can fit most budgets. h

7925 North Tryon Street Suite 111 Charlotte, NC 28262 www.alteregobodystudio.com 704.496.9874

Hours Tues – Fri (1p – 7p) Sat. (10a – 4p) Facebook - @alteregobodystudio Instagram – alter_ego_body_studio Snapchat – alteregobody alteregobodystudio@gmail.com

edgrick

Holland

By Terry L. Watson Photos by Still Shots Photography Edgrick Holland of Salisbury N.C. was raised in New York City, NY. He has seen the tougher side of things and still manages to maintain a calm and sensible demeanor. He is a former high school basketball star who also played at the collegiate level. He retired from the New York Police Department as a detective. After retiring, Holland decided to relocate to the slower ways of the south where most of his family resides and where there are fewer traffic jams and parking struggles. He refers to New York as Gotham City. That is also the namesake for a line of products he has created for men, Gotham City Beard Balm and Oil. He launched his business online in April 2017. “I hand craft beard balm and beard oils to moisturize the skin beneath your beard and tame and style large beards. Short or not so thick beards can benefit from my products because the focus is to stimulate the hair follicles and help with hair growth,” he says. The balm and oils are made with organic ingredients such as Almond Oils, Argan Oils, Beeswax, and Essential Oil including Tea Tree to help fight skin irritations beneath beards. “Ever since I was a young teenager I dealt with facial hair and actually had a fully connected beard by the time I was 17 years old. I would shave my facial hair off at times. I was rushing nature’s natural process. This mistake caused rashes, in grown hairs, and irritations. Having to take public transportation to school, I usually rushed out the door and didn’t have time to groom my beard so I just decided to let it grow. From that early experience I started using home remedies such as olive oil and baking soda to help remove irritations and bumps from shaving. This method often caused more irritation and discomfort,” he says.

GOTHAM CITY BEARD BALM & OIL

980-234-6445 www.gothamcitybeardbalm.com

Holland’s adult son has dealt with Atopic Dermatitis/ Eczema since he was a toddler. He would use natural oils to help with his son’s condition and started mixing up oils to help with his own skin. He applied the mixture to his beard to help hydrate and remove beard dandruff (beardruff) and itchiness with good expectations. “As men, we shampoo our hair and suds run down to our face which eventually dries out our beards. Shampoo for our scalp hair is not formulated for sensitive facial area. I’ve recently added a natural organic unscented beard shampoo to restore and help keep natural oils and moisture and replace nutrients removed from harsh scalp shampoo,” he says. Beard care is becoming more prevalent in today’s society. There are several platforms established to help men become educated on how to care for theirs. “I love to help educate anyone who wants to grow and keep a beard and also teach them the importance of not neglecting their facial hair. A well-groomed maintained beard says a lot about a man,” he says. Holland named his business and product line Gotham City from New York. Two of his signature scents are named Gotham and Crusader. His cherry tobacco scented formula is very popular. There is also a peppermint scented product which helps stimulate hair follicles for beard growth. “If you’re going to wear it, be about it, groom it, baby it, and be about it,” he says. h

Taxes Is

What I Do Tamara Hicks

By Dawn Cauthen Thonton Photos by Todd Youngblood A year after we first introduced you to Tamara Hicks, TPR Solutions is still going strong. The owner and operator of the tax business is back to share a few thoughts on the upcoming season that could save you time, money, and a few headaches. She’s also working on enhancing her other projects. Even though there is a ‘season’ for taxes, Tamara offers her services year-round to better serve her growing clientele. When most tax-based businesses operate during the busy season of January through April, Tamara sees the benefit in taking on the client who may be late to file, or those that simply have questions they need answered. She also makes house calls and accepts documents via email. “People don’t know that they can file the previous year’s taxes up until mid-October. That doesn’t stop your payments if you owe, and there may be a late penalty involved, but you can still get it done,” Tamara explains. To help prepare, here are a few do’s and don’ts to consider:

Do’s.......

1. Make sure to have ALL documents needed to file. Especially all W2s if you’ve had or currently have multiple employers. 2. Confirm that your address is up-to-date with current and previous employers to ensure you receive necessary documents. 3. If you want to claim health-related costs, provide receipts from the provider (not just bank statements) and insurance documents. 4. Have direct deposit to avoid the hassle of waiting by the mailbox, if you’re expecting a refund. 5. If your tax preparer offers it, and if you’re eligible, consider a loan advance (up to $1200.00). 6. Keep previous filings for at least four years.

Don’ts........

1. Be in a rush to file. Again, make sure all needed documents are received before filing. 2. Attempt to claim false deductions. Doing so can trigger an audit and cause unwanted trouble.

“People don’t know that they can file the previous year’s taxes up until mid-October. That doesn’t stop your payments if you owe, and there may be a late penalty involved, but you can still get it done”.

3. Expect a miracle. The IRS receives the same documents from employers. Be realistic in your expectations of a refund or overages you’ve received (that you will need to pay back). 4. Wait too late. Filing after the deadline can result in additional fees, higher penalties, and unnecessary stress. 5. Entrust your personal information with anyone you’re unsure about or someone who doesn’t have the proper training and credentials.

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With the new tax reform bill being signed into law recently, Tamara knows there will be many changes coming down the pike and waits patiently for updates to pass on to her customers. She not only takes pride in being knowledgeable about taxes, but she educates her customers and helps them understand the process. “Many business owners don’t know the things they can write-off or how to keep proper records so I try to stress the importance of those things.” To stay competitive, she uses the same top-of-the-line programs that the popular chain services use and takes update courses every year. When Tamara isn’t crunching numbers, she works for Mecklenburg County as a Licensed Professional Counselor, upgrading from an Assistant title. In working for the county, she experienced the highlypublicized system hacking in December. “We had to resort to writing everything down, doing things over the phone, and using as little of the internet as we could. I couldn’t provide lots of clients with the benefits they receive because of it. And there was nothing we could do about it.” Within the next few years, Tamara would like to expand her counseling services to substance abusers, trauma victims, the LGBTQ community, and other communities in need. She has a multicultural outlook on her next career move and wants to meet people where they are in their journey. In January, she’ll be working with a group home in her hometown of Winston Salem, N.C., as well as accepting clients to counsel one-on-one in Charlotte.

TPR Solutions Tax Service

4822 Albermarle Road - Suite 205 Charlotte, NC 28205 980-949-8811 14

“I have been on both sides of the desk. That’s why I want to focus on early childhood and adult trauma. I’ve seen the benefits of it firsthand. I was an adult who needed to be heard from events that happened as a child,” admits Tamara. In 2017, the #MeToo movement became the center of most media outlets, and Tamara understands why victims of sexual violations choose to stay silent for years. She’s glad that rights are being respected and supports those that have and will come forward with their truths. Those are the souls she wants to reach. Therapy and counseling is extremely taboo in the Black community, but can be a necessary part of coping and healing. The key is finding a stranger you can relate to and match with your personality. Tamara Hicks has set out to do it all. From tackling your taxes one W2 at a time, to providing a piece of mind, one session at a time. Slowly but surely, she plans on making her mark. h

Charlotte - January/February 2018

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katrina By Dawn Cauthen Thornton Photos By Todd Youngblood Some may call it arrogance, over confidence, or self love, but no matter how you view Katrina Davis, she knows who she is and the gifts that lies within her. She has endured tough criticism and has the battle scars to prove it, yet Katrina has been able to love herself past her pain. It has now become her personal goal to empower others and show them how to embrace the beauty within themselves. “I want everyone, especially women to feel loved, beautiful, intelligent, sexy and most of all empowered,” she says. When Katrina Davis decided she wanted to become a licensed hair stylist, her uncle, with whom she’s very close to, discouraged her. She had been practicing on friends and family since she was in grade school and couldn’t imagine doing anything else. Her uncle had hoped she would become a doctor, lawyer, or some other professional that most think is prestigious and highearning. He told her that there was no future in the hair industry and denied her the monetary loan she asked for to get started. “He told me he could help me get a full scholarship to Spelman [College] but he would not pay for cosmetology school.” Katrina was disappointed that her uncle didn’t see her vision, but that didn’t stop her, it just forced her to push harder to make her dream a reality. Now she owns Code Red Salon, where she services clients from all walks of life, and takes pride in helping each one transform themselves. “Once I start talking to a client, it’s interesting to see how they view themselves. People get so caught up in life that they don’t think they’re attractive. They want to look nice but they don’t know how to get there. And it’s not until I start making changes that they see themselves differently,” Katrina explains. Some of Katrina’s clients felt so unattractive, that they wouldn’t allow her to take their picture, and if she did convince them to take one, they wouldn’t allow her to post it on social media. What many stylists don’t do, that Katrina prides herself on, is taking the time to learn as much as she can about the person sitting in her chair. So many variables are factored into creating the perfect look that takes more than one conversation to understand. In addition to considering their body type, hair type, and skin complexion, she includes their profession, lifestyle, and even their age. At times, she even likes to inquire about what their spouse likes.

Continued on the next page

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“I get them to embrace their own beauty. They have to know what’s beautiful within themselves. I also pay attention to their personality. If they don’t have the personality to go along with the style, they won’t be able to pull it off,” says Katrina. In the African American community, beauty salons are a place of solace, trust, and honesty. There have been movies on the big screen showcasing women (and men) and the relationships they form with those responsible for their image. So, when a client walks through the door, they expect to be able to trust the person who is cutting, coloring, and styling their mane. “I tell my clients up front, that I only have their best interest in mind, so if they’re looking for a ‘yes’ person, I won’t be the best stylist for them. I’m only going to do what I know will work.” During a customary appointment, Katrina made an executive decision that completely changed the look of a frequent client. Prior to making the drastic change, the unsuspecting customer wore a more conservative hair color. Attempting to light a fire, Katrina decided to make her a bold blonde. “Initially she didn’t like it, but I told her if she wore it for a week and still didn’t like it, I’d change it back at no charge.” Needless to say, there were no changes and the client grew to love it, while getting endless compliments. Sonya Battle can’t help but gush about the stylist she’s had for the past four years. Before coming to Katrina, Sonya suffered from hair loss and was undoubtedly frustrated with the stylists she frequented previously. They didn’t listen to her concerns and seemingly lacked the ability to properly care for her hair. “Katrina’s strong-suit is maintaining healthy hair and I haven’t really found that before. She’s taken my hair from a pixie to a bob, back to a short cut, and it’s all my hair. She also educates me on how to care for my hair at home instead of just styling it and sending me on my way. Because I’m a woman of a certain age, she helped me understand that hormones also cause your hair to change.”

“Katrina doesn’t try to do things, she does. I really like that she’s spiritually based. She understands that servitude is the drive.” Cedric Blackwell, Cultural Vista Couture Owner and Operator of CVC (Cultural Vista Couture), Cedric Blackwell, has referred several clients to Katrina, simply because he’s pleased with how both of his daughters and his mother always enjoy the total experience0. It’s not often that you hear of a grandmother and her teenage granddaughters utilizing the same stylist, but Katrina is very versatile. She has no problem servicing clients of all ages and provides a myriad of hairstyles that are age and activity appropriate. “Kat D doesn’t try to do things, she does. I really like that she’s spiritually based. She understands that servitude is the drive. When her clients come in, they not only work on the physical aesthetics but the inner aesthetics as well. My daughters, who are 13 and 14 are both in ROTC, and they love going to Katrina. As the owner she oversaw the girls services from beginning to end to ensure they got a style they loved and was functional for ROTC and for school.,” Blackwell said. Just from talking to some of her happy customers, I quickly concluded that Katrina doesn’t just ‘do hair’, a phrase largely used to describe hair stylists. She changes lives. Her equal love of beauty and the admiration for those that walk through her doors, pushes her to dig deeper. She wants them all to feel inspired, motivated, and empowered. “I try to help my clients see what I see in them. And sometimes it takes a while for that to happen.” Some of Katrina’s clients are cancer patients who have lost their hair to treatment, domestic violence survivors who have escaped an abusive partner and are stressed, or bankers who need to look professional, but want to avoid harmful chemicals by wearing their natural tresses. They all have another side to them just waiting to emerge. “My goal with creating the alter ego is to push my clients to step outside of the box. I need them to understand that there are so many options, and when the bond is right with you and your stylist, it’s easier for us to elevate you to the next level. Because my job is to absolutely elevate you.” h

Code Red Salon - 7925 N. Tryon St. Ste. 101 - Charlotte, NC 28262 (980)999-0RED

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Justin Rhedrick

BitcoinVegan Consulting By Terry L. Watson Photos by Justin Rhedrick What is a Bitcoin? This question is being asked by many individuals lately. Yet, there aren’t many resources available to answer it. However, there is someone who has focused their attention on doing just that, answering the mystique about Bitcoin. Justin Rhedrick is a 28-year-old single father of a bright and brilliant young lady. He is also dedicated to maintaining a healthy lifestyle, so much so that he transitioned from a vegetarian to vegan diet. Rhedrick is an avid reader of information on Cryptocurrency, having a keen focus on Bitcoin. With the knowledge obtained on Bitcoin, he has launched a company, BitcoinVegan which offers a very diverse line of products. One of the services he offers is Bitcoin Consultation. Rhedrick says this level is ideal for beginners who have never heard of Bitcoin but may have questions about it. These questions may include how to set up a Bitcoin wallet, where to buy Bitcoins, and who accepts them. For individuals already familiar with Bitcoin but may want to know more, Rhedrick provides guidance and directions to sources where they can learn more about the Bitcoin and Crypto currency space outside of just watching price swings, updates, news feeds, and business applications. Additional products include teaching Bitcoin Technology. This allows him to share resources with clients to help them learn how to run a full Bitcoin node, and direct them through the steps to implement the new updates for personal or business use. There are programming services available as well. “I’m currently increasing my skills as I increase my Bitcoin toolkit with different coding languages so I can design and create apps for my clients using apps for general use or apps for Bitcoin blockchain,” he says. His business started early in 2017 by first explaining Bitcoin to his family and friends. Due to the constant information and updates that was happening in Bitcoin, he started realizing the need for expert advice to spread the truth about it. “Our society is overloaded with fear or false evidence appearing real. This includes fake news or alternative facts which makes it difficult for new opportunities to prevail that could change someone’s life. Some choose to go with what they know even if the results or outcomes never change. I remain encouraged when I am able to meet new people and share this great opportunity. At the end of the day, when one more person is enthusiastic about exploring Bitcoin, it is a win,” says Rhedrick. There are many advantages to Bitcoin. Decentralization has kept Bitcoin safe for ten years and has the largest global network effect besides religion and social media. “All other altcoins or digital currencies are testnets for Bitcoin. Anything they think they can do, Bitcoin can adopt it or already has,” he says.

Understanding that African Americans are some of the greatest consumers and spend over a trillion dollars a year, Rhedrick wanted to know what it would look like if they invested those dollars in Bitcoin. “We could then give back to our community to help eliminate poverty which is the greatest contributor to most of our societal ills such as poor education, homelessness, and more,” he says. The healthy side of Rhedrick’s business involves Vegan Coaching. With his first business, Vegan on the Go, Rhedrick is able to provide consultation and food service for his Vegan clientele. “Healthy eating is the key to a healthy lifestyle,” he says. “As a vegan, process chemicals are stripped from ones’ diet thus allowing clearer thinking and an overall better health. I am committed to working with individuals or families and assisting them with transitioning to a vegan diet”. I am very aware of the food deserts our communities are affected by. I believe resolutions to these issues can be found with organic farmers and natural health remedies,” he says. “Family is important to me and I want to see families thrive holistically”. Rhedrick says his family started the fire in him from birth to be an entrepreneur and a self-starter. “Two brothers, Darrin Miller El (Sr. Consultant Moab Bit Association) and Isaiah Jackson (Vice President of KRBE), encouraged me to start consulting. My daughter is my greatest inspiration. Just looking at her huge smile and hearing her call mdaddy makes getting up every morning worth it,” he says. h

Justin Rhedrick 980-729-4228 rhedrick32@gmail.com

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Charlotte - January/February 2018

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huami MAGAZINE

Cutest Baby 24

August Jett

ÂŽ

The son of Melody and Rashaan Jett Photo provided by Still Shots Photography

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Charlotte - January/February 2018

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

Nashville, TN (347) 454-2093 www.yesbuilds.com

By Terry L. Watson Photos by Yolanda Sheilds Greatness begins with compassion and genuineness. Those two words can be used to describe Yolanda Shields of Nashville, Tennessee. Shields has deep roots in entrepreneurship, faith, and family. As the mother of one son, Roland Jr., she has also served as a great role model to him. He is also an entrepreneur and started his first business at the age of 11. Now 26, he is still making waves in his respective business circle. Shields grew up listening and watching her grandfather run a businesses he started in Alaska during the 1950’s. “I knew as a child that I would start something. I felt that if my grandfather as a black man could start a successful business in the 50’s, surely I could,” she says. So that is exactly what Yolanda did. Presently, Shields manages YES Builds Coaching and Consulting. She offers high-energy innovative hands-on training seminars and coaching with a dynamic tandem facilitation style, tool-packed to equip you for success. Headquartered in Nashville, Tennessee, YES Builds is a consulting and training firm with a focus on business strategy, sustainability, executive coaching, and training for small and midsize for-profit and nonprofit companies worldwide. “I have a passion for business and empowering others to succeed in all that God has for them,” Shields explains. “As an author, speaker, coach and business strategist, I assist individuals in moving their vision forward with clarity, strategy, and activation. It is one thing to have an idea but the realization of it happens when you are able to put a plan together to move it forward.” Her first book, ‘Letters to Our Sons’ was released in 2011. In 2016, she followed this feat with a second book, ‘Entrepreneurship is a Mindset not a Storefront’ in 2016. She has over 20 years of experience as a business leader as well as international workforce development and social entrepreneurship in the continent of Africa and other third World Countries. She has also traveled extensively throughout the United States, France, and Africa, which has helped her to expand her reach in the area of business. Shields has an MBA (Human Resource Management and Entrepreneurship) and has been appointed by Tennessee Governor, Bill Haslam to the Labor and Workforce Development Board for the State of Tennessee and Vice Chair of the Oversight Committee.

Throughout her career, Shields has worked with many corporations for-profit and non-profit and currently serves as a mentor at Vanderbilt University’s Wond’ry Innovation Center. She has been privileged to work with various celebrities such as CeCe Winans, Darrell Green, Art Monk, Tony Boselli, and many others. “My work always includes a component that gives back which is a core value for me and has been a part of the work I do in the continent of Africa and the USA. I believe if you are a servant leader and give back you will succeed. I am a passionate leader that believes everyone should have an opportunity to succeed in whatever they are called to do and it is possible with the right training and support,” she says. She launched Yes Builds after holding many senior level positions and running several businesses, including consulting part-time for well over 15 years and decided it was time to do it full time. “I tell many entrepreneurs it’s okay to start small and build something that can be sustainable,” she says. Entrepreneurship is not easy but it is rewarding if you have a plan and resources to sustain the work during hard times. She admits there have been many times she wanted to quit and go back to working for someone, but would tell herself “If I can do it for them I can do it for me”. “When those times come you have to get creative and innovative and I have done just that with great collaborations and partnerships. I know those thoughts will continue to come and that’s when I reevaluate what we are doing and why and make changes where they’re needed. You have to keep it fresh and relevant and not get stuck doing things that are not working or bringing in revenue and great value to your clients and customers,” Shield says. As an entrepreneur, Shield loves the opportunities she has to make an impact on the next generation with her Youth Entrepreneurship Summit. The summit is hosted each summer, along with her Entrepreneurship Power Hour in middle and high schools. “I believe entrepreneurship is about finding solutions to problems and I love that I am able to play a role in helping my clients find solutions,” she said. As Shields continues to move forward, her focus remains with faith, family and friends. “Sometimes you don’t see how much you have accomplished until it’s shared by others. My faith in God continues to remind me that I am destined to win as I walk towards all that I was born to accomplish. I am inspired by the many women and men throughout history that have paved the way for me and how hard they pushed without giving up. That is why I don’t give up,” she says. “Never take small beginnings for granted. Every opportunity is leading you to the next open door. Always give 100 percent and remember things happen when you not only talk about your dreams and visions, but when you put action steps and a plan in place. Give more than expected, be a lifelong learner, give back, never stop believing in yourself, work hard, and always have a prayer strategy.” h

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Rights of Knowing What To Do Before The Time Arrives Information provided by Carlton L. Gray

2810 Kidd Road - Raleigh, NC 27610 919-231-6120 www.carltonlgrayfuneral.com This rule or law may vary from state to state to some degree, but it is the most universally accepted manner of establishing and defining the responsible party. For our article we will be using the laws set forth in the state of North Carolina General Statute 130420(a). It very important to know that the state of North Carolina does not recognize common law marriage as of this article. So if you have a spouse that has not legally divorced from a prior marriage, it could cause some conflict of interest at the time of death. Here are the Rights of Disposition for the state of North Carolina. G.S. 130A-420(a). If a decedent has left no written authorization for the cremation and disposition of the decedentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s body as permitted under subdivision (1) of this subsection, the following competent persons in the order listed may authorize the type, method, place, cremation, and disposition of the decedentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s body:

A The surviving spouse. of the surviving children who are at least 18 years of age B Aandmajority can be located after reasonable efforts.

C The surviving parents. A majority of the surviving siblings who are at least 18 years of

D age and can be located after reasonable efforts. E

A majority of the persons in the classes of the next degrees of kinship, in descending order, who, under State law, would inherit the decedentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s estate if the decedent died intestate who are at least 18 years of age and can be located after reasonable efforts.

A person who has exhibited special care and concern for the decedent and is willing and able to make decisions about the cremation and disposition.

In the case of indigents or any other individuals whose final disposition is the responsibility of the State or any of its instrumentalities, a public administrator, medical examiner, coroner, State-appointed guardian, or any other public official charged with arranging the final disposition of the decedent may serve as the authorizing agent.

In the case of individuals who have donated their bodies to science or whose death occurred in a nursing home or private institution and in which the institution is charged with making arrangements for the final of the decedent, a representative of such institution a disposition may serve as the authorizing agent in the absence of any of the above.

the absence of any of the above, any person willing to assume b Inresponsibility as authorizing agent, as specified in this act.

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By Terry L. Watson Photos by Keisha Garrett of KG Artistry

Joceyln Lynch is a purpose and business cultivator, business owner, entrepreneur, and mother. She wears many hats but is most proud of being a mom and an entrepreneur. She was born and raised in Richmond, VA, and is a graduate of Virginia Commonwealth University. She is currently completing course work for her Master of Arts at Liberty University. Music, reading and prayer fuels her days, while family and solid friendships help keep her grounded, encouraged and loved. As the owner of EWS Consulting & Strategies, LLC Consulting Services, Lynch offers courses, eBooks, journals, and apparel. Soon, she will launch Purposed Discussions, a monthly virtual meetup for women who are striving to break barriers in their personal and professional lives. Lynch knew she had a purpose in her life. To find it, she started to research business and purpose in 2015. “I knew that there was more to life than the space I occupied at my tiny cube at work. I decided after watching many Periscopes, attending webinars, listening and reading about passive income that it was time to push forward,” she says. “You know that feeling you get when you are nervous and excited all at the same time but you aren’t sure why or for what. That was me in September of that same year. I decided it was time to launch my website, www.heyjocey. com.” She did on January 1, 2016. It began as a journey into empowerment, restoration, and leadership. She had no clue on how she would combine all of her ideas, but she was determined. “I read my notes, implemented strategies, cried, gave up and kept pushing. I began blogging because this was the way, right? That’s what all of the online gurus said. It wasn’t comfortable and I began to waiver. I was still doggy paddling around the pool of online entrepreneurship. I still knew purpose existed and someone needed my help. I knew for certain someone needed my help,” she says.

Passion. Purpose. Business

Confirmation came when she was approached by a co-worker who needed help with her business. She remembered Lynch had previously had a non-profit business and she wanted her help with establishing a (for-profit) business. Lynch says it was different but thrilling, and she was finally in her groove.

EWS Consulting & Strategies, LLC was launched in 2016, three months after her grandmother, Edna Willnette Saunders died. EWS is an ode to her. Lynch is often encouraged by her grandparents, who were hard workers and taught her the true meaning of the hustle. “My grandparents were amazing people. My maternal grandparents really helped my foundation of life and influenced my values and morals. They were both ministers and taught me about faith, compassion, and strength. I was the grandchild you saw hanging with her grandparents, running to church conferences just so I could sit with them. Little did I know that I was being molded with the attributes and values,” she confesses. Her mom and dad gave balance while growing up. “My dad held me accountable while my mom cheered for me. I’m where I am today because of the solid family values they instilled in me,” says Lynch. For others who are striving to do some of the things Lynch has done, she offers some sound advice. “Get comfortable with being uncomfortable. You’ll know the difference in your comfort levels and if it’s not in alignment with your purpose, it’s time to level up. Start your day with prayer and ask for clarity, understanding, and compassion. Make time for family and don’t fall for the hype you see on the internet. There are good days and scary days but with focus you can push through and achieve much. Also, let go of perfection because you aren’t going to be perfect starting out the gate and you won’t be perfect later. Be open to receive and open to give and know your story, be thankful for your story and accept your story, it’s your story and someone needs to hear it,” she says. h

Jocelyn Lynch - Lead Consultant - EWS Consulting and Strategies 804.937.9831 - Richmond, VA www.heyjocey.com Charlotte - January/February 2018

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Jessica Just Being

By Jessica Jordan Photos by Donald Wilson Jessica Jordan is a distinguished healthcare professional with more than 10 years of business experience, including seven years focused in healthcare with Fortune 500 companies and large hospital systems. She recently earned a Master of Health Administration (MHA) from Pfeiffer University. The program combined rigorous business and healthcare administration academics with practical experience for mastering the managerial aspects of healthcare. Jessica also holds a Bachelor of Science in Public Health (BSPH) from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. She is currently a Clinical Coordinator in Charlotte, NC and has ambitions to become a Healthcare Administrator in the future. Jessica attributes her inspiration to achieve both academic and career successes to her mother LaFondra T. Jordan. She was a major influence of which motivated Jessica to obtain her postgraduate degree. Jessica shares, “My mother was a successful, intelligent woman who provided leadership as an IT Administrator. She and I started our post graduate effort together to obtain Masters Degrees. She was enrolled in the Master of Science in Information Technology (MSIT) program at North Carolina Agricultural & Technical State University. Sadly, in 2014 she had to suspend her studies due to the reoccurrence of breast cancer. However, despite battling with cancer, she always encouraged and motivated me to keep going and finish my graduate program. I will never forget the example she set. For that reason, I dedicate my graduate degree in her memory.” Jessica’s mother passed in March 2016. Currently, Jessica is also deeply committed to community service and giving back. She demonstrates this commitment through serving in several civic organizations. Her contributions include volunteering with Freedom School Partners and Hands-On Charlotte. She is also a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. When away from work Jessica enjoys spending time with family and exploring international travel. h

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“Despite battling with cancer, she always encouraged and motivated me to keep going and to finish my graduate program. I will never forget the example she set. For that reason, I dedicate my graduate degree in her memory.” Jessica’s mother LaFondra passed in March 2016 after a long and hard fought battle with Breast Cancer.

Charlotte - January/February 2018

By Terry L. Watson Photos provided by Stacey Oliver tacey M. Oliver is the founder of Olivers Financial Planning Services Agency, LLC and Financial Kick Start JBJO, Inc., a non profit organization. Known for her gift of gab, in the midst of her younger years, she had cynical ramifications for people calling her “Gabby”. In Oliver’s adulthood, she figured out how to embrace her gift as she comprehended the vitality of the blessing. With her fluent and powerful speaking, she can sell the socks off anyone. Oliver’s natural sales ability in the corporate financial arena positioned her to receive several awards for top sales with one of the largest diversified financial services companies in the United States. She is an Empowerment Speaker, Certified Accounting Clerk, Licensed Independent Agent, and serves on various boards and committees for financial wellness in the upstate of South Carolina. She has established herself as an expert in the field and is extremely insightful and keen on the financial industry. Oliver was exposed to the world of finance at an early age by her parents. She recalls her father, James M. Scott, taking her to the bank most Saturdays and acquainting her with the bank representatives and completing a bank visit. In the midst of each visit, he demonstrated to her the proper way to do basic banking. Her parents discussed the value of money in their home and talked about writing checks, the different ways to save, and the importance of investing. Her paternal grandparents gifted her with money to open her first minor savings account. As she continued to save, her father would take her to the bank to deposit her saved coins in her savings account. One day she found herself working at the same bank her dad took her to visit as a child. During her banking career, she encountered minorities of all ages who were clueless about their creditworthiness, the essentialness of investing or how to transfer wealth to their loved ones. It was then she acknowledged the urgency to venture out and establish her own business of financial planning services. She saw the absence of learning and a critical need to offer services to demonstrate to individuals generally accepted methods to be monetarily stable. Her mother, Ruby N. Scott, constantly unveiled to her that the sky has no constraints, with God all things are possible if you put Him first. In the pursuit of her purpose and destiny, she held to the principles and ethics her parents and grandparents bestowed in her. With those standards and morals, she built her family. Oliver firmly believes that someone’s financial success is greatly determined by their ability to take ownership of their financial livelihood. “Individuals are not able to take ownership of their finances unless they first comprehend what is shielding them from acquiring financial success. The main culprit is barriers. Barriers will frustrate, hinder, limit, and restrict your financial wealth,” Oliver states in her book, ‘The Master Key to Complete Financial Freedom’. With her book, Oliver empowers individuals with the “Master Key” to finding financial freedom. Her mission is to create, enlighten, and empower committed effective stewards of finances. Her firm offers impeccable services to those who want to stop living from paycheck to paycheck, want to better

Olivers Financial Planning Services Agency, LLC PO Box 51363 - Piedmont, SC 29673 www.about.me/staceyoliver 864-329-6403 StaceyOliver@ofpslocksmith.com

manage their finances, those who need a practical perspective of their financial status, need to improve their credit standing, desire to multiply their saving potential, and desire to leave a legacy. Services are available in many facets including one on one, group settings, and speaking platforms. Oliver’s primary objective is to increase her clients financial literacy awareness so they can fully understand how money works. “Money can work hard for you instead of you working hard for it. Once that concept is learned then the vicious cycle and hold of debt can be removed,” she says. Oliver’s husband, Larry and their son, Uriah ensure she keeps her priorities in right perspective with their encouragement and support. When not ministering and working with her business, organization, and daily routine, she is enjoying life in South Carolina. h

Charlotte - January/February 2018

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By Dawn Cauthen Thornton Photos by Still Shots Photography he website, Dictionary.com, defines the word ‘recipe’ as a set of instructions for making or preparing something. It also explains it as a method to attain a desired end. The selected ingredients, ideas, and concepts are key to creating either a recipe for disaster or a recipe for success. Keijuane Hester, owner and operator of two bakeries, has experience in both. In the spring of 1996, Keijuane was sentenced to 42 months in federal prison for selling and distributing narcotics. While serving time, another inmate, who was a baker in the kitchen, befriended then persuaded him to learn how to bake. Keijuane wasn’t interested at all, but in his stubbornness, he couldn’t help but notice how popular his friend’s cakes were. “The other inmates would line up around the corner just to get a slice of whatever he baked that day. And I realized there might be something to this,” Keijuane remembers. After he took notice, Keijuane asked his friend if he could get him a job in the bakery, and he did, right alongside him. The mentor hoped that Keijuane would have a trade upon his release so he wouldn’t follow in the footsteps of many others and run back to his criminal behavior. According to statistics, more than 50% of offenders return to prison within 5 years of their original release date. It seems that Keijuane’s mentor was trying to be preemptive and discourage that idea. Though baking was the last thing he wanted to do, Keijuane learned how to make everything from cookies, cakes, and pies, to cheesecake and bread, all from scratch. Since selling products is what put him behind bars, it’s not surprising that Keijuane’s main goal was to earn a few dollars, pushing his goods to anyone who would buy them.

Keijuane Hester

“Out of all the things I learned how to make, I only wrote the recipe down for one thing, and that was carrot cake. It was so good that I said I was going to make it for my family when I got home.” Keijuane spent almost four years away from his loved ones and the life he knew prior to his conviction. As soon as he returned home, a friend helped him land a job as a lab technician and he hit the ground running. He would occasionally pull the popular recipe out for company potlucks and special occasions, and noticed that every crumb would be gone within a few minutes of the first bite. His co-workers were amazed at his skills and began making requests. A relative took notice and urged him to consider it as a ‘side hustle.’

“Before, I was hustling cocaine in the street but had converted to selling cakes. I felt like it was corny. So I shrugged it off and didn’t consider it.” Soon, Keijuane fell back into old habits and resumed his life of crime when he reunited with some old friends from prison. On June 5, 2001, the former drug dealer was spared during an operation that could’ve cost him more years behind bars. His best friend was busted by federal agents, during a drug deal, with Keijuane sitting in a car one block away awaiting his return. His friend was sentenced to 22 ½ years in prison – more than five times the amount Keijuane was sentenced just a few years prior. He knows that could’ve easily been him. It didn’t take long for the street hustler to hang up his illegal desires and commit to a more stable lifestyle. Unfortunately, a job lay-off followed, as did a rejection from a potential employer. “After I didn’t get the job I was hoping for, something on the inside of me said step out and use your gift.” That gift was baking. The self-taught business man found himself staring at the carrot cake recipe once again. With $30 in his pocket and a small kitchen to utilize, Keijuane started visiting every open-door establishment he could find. He was nervous and still unsure, but forged ahead. Barbershops, beauty salons, and nail salons were his first stops. With each slice he sold, he would reinvest the money to purchase new ingredients, pots, pans, and eventually a business license. His new product created a buzz around town and in 2012, he opened Favor Desserts in Durham, NC. “I really believe that I had to go to prison to find the gift of baking and be that beacon of hope. I feel like I’m just an instrument God used to show other black males that they can turn their lives around and be something positive,” Keijuane explains. This past spring, Favor Desserts 2 had its grand opening in Greensboro and Keijuane is currently perusing property in the Charlotte area to bring his mouthwatering sweets to the Queen City in the fall of 2018. His red velvet, five flavor pound, and carrot cakes are his specialties. Customers line up outside the door and around the corner for a taste. Although this seems very familiar, his clientele is much different and needless to say, so is he. Currently, Keijuane not only has his hands in cake batter and icing, but he’s attending school at NC Central University, he volunteers his time and his previous misfortune to encourage those who are on the brink of giving up, and a host of other charitable efforts. While he was traveling this road to redemption God, his parents and a special best friend helped guide him and see him through. His four children are his ultimate motivation. He’s unsure of their interest in the family business just yet, but he plans on creating an empire for them just in case they are. h

2 Locations 5607 HW 55 - Suite 105 - Durham, NC 27713 30

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2804 Randleman Road - Ste P - Greensboro, NC 27405

Charlotte - January/February 2018

919-908-9264

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Education for Manicurist Licensing 8-Hour Continuing Education Training for NIC Written and Practical Exam Charlotte Location 4520 N. Tryon St. - Ste 38 Charlotte NC, 28213 704-858-4815

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Charlotte - January/February 2018

Greensboro Location 3821 W. Gate City Blvd Greensboro, NC 27407 336-988-1442

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