Huami Magazine Dallas/Fort Worth September 2020

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Sept./Oct. 2020 Vol. 1 Issue 7 FREE

Danielle Bertrand Girl, It’s Go Time Dallas/Fort Worth - Sept./Oct. 2020

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The Lessons of Life Do Have A Purpose A Letter From The Editor

There Are No If, Ands, Or Buts About It!

I am not a spring chicken, and what that clearly means is that I have been around the track a few times. That also indicates that I haveA seen few the things, Letterafrom Editorsome good and some bad. My decisions haven’t always been correct, and there have been moments of difficulty where my actions didn’t make any sense to me. But through What it all, there is one constant that has never the if tomorrow didn’t arrive?

All of yourchanged; plans, hopes lessons only life can provide. andthat dreams wouldn’t have a street to park on. What if everything that you decided to put off until tomorrow never Though I have There been battered bruisedto along happened? would beand no reason savethe for way, a rainy because I am still here, it proves that God has a purpose for my day, and you could spare someone the trouble of making adversity and a reason mylast existence.

Though it mayexpired be hard at promises.

What iffor your opportunity seemingly times,today?

I have What realized that my purpose is attached to those lessons. would you do?

ThereI’ve is comfort in taking the easy road life,too butmuch. the easy way been told that I often seem likein I do out doesn’t offer growth.

One ofdoing the biggest misconceptions Honestly, I feel like I am not enough and I’m a firm is that silence means that everything is alright.put That is not always believer in knowing that God wouldn’t anything on me correct because silence can mask hurt, disappointment, that I couldn’t handle.

I sometimes wonder how lifeconfusion, would and disconnection. because someone voice their be if I chose toJust sit idle and accept whatdoesn’t it presented to me. I feelings and opinions, it doesn’t mean they doopinion, not haveopportunity any to say. have found that to be very boring.

In my It could the exact opposite.

TheyAcould have a is apossibly blessingindicate that isn’t afforded to everyone. challenge wholetocircus on the inside never show it can because it has me isgoing an adventure.

Whatand is the worst that happen?

If I do nothing, I fail, silent and ifand I tryemotionless.

I don’t, but instead learnGod become easier to remain However, something about myself. Relinquish your pride and in desires for us to new speak. return acquire life.

In the holy bible, in the book of Psalms 34:1 NLT, it says “I will TheLord bestat advice ever Igiven to me happened when someone praise the all times. will constantly speak His praises.” told me to make tomorrow happen doing so This verse offers clear my instructions from God today. on whatInour I have pressed my way through doors with a key that responsibilities are as Christians. We can’t stay silent whenonly faced hope provided.

I have alsoout. learned difference between with adversity; we must speak Eventhe during difficulties, there what God blesses me with and what life can burden me with is resolve and promise when we call on God. as well. I compare it to knowing when to be confident and when to be quiet, Living in a world that isbecause someone may get itand confused filled with so much chaos with being arrogant. misunderstanding, being silent only fuels the problem. When you have Make you tomorrow an opportunity to speak, you must happen today, do so with the love of but Godmost in your importantly make it count. heart, and on your lips. Though your Life is but a whisper pain may seem endless, loveand has the wefixmust put ourselves in a ability to a lifetime of brokenness. position to hear what it is telling us.

www.huamimagazine.com Terry L Watson Publisher www.huamimagazine.com Editor In Chief Writer Dawn C. Thornton Terry L. Watson Terry L. Watson Writer Alana Allen - Deputy Editor Junious Smith Writer Writers

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Terry L. Watson Editor/Founder Dallas/Fort Worth - Sept./Oct. 2020

On The Cover

Photo by Shaw Photography Group

CONTENTS

SEPT./OCT. 2020

DALLAS/FORT WORTH

Cory L Walker 34

Pinnacle Solutions Group LLC

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On The Cover

Girl, It’s Go Time!

Danielle Bertrand

CenterStage In The City

Lamont and Stephanie

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Inspired by Rochelle

Maria Rochelle

Aleta Daniele Realty

Aleta Danielle

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Also Featured

Seafood Destiny Her father has kept a promise that he made. Learn more their story.

Greensboro, NC

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Morry Lee Johnson He is the cutest, and has been selected as Huami Magazine’s Cutest Baby.

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Dallas/Fort Worth - Sept./Oct. 2020

Jemmalyn Hewlett She has built a legacy of businesses for herself, and for her family. Meet the founder of We Care.

Hampton Roads, VA HuamiMagazine.com

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Danielle Bertrand Girl, It’s Go Time

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HuamiMagazine.com

Dallas/Fort Worth - Sept./Oct. 2020

By Terry L. Watson Photos by Crowned Photography, LeAnn Nicole Danielle Bertrand is a native of Baton Rouge, LA, but now resides with her husband, Lance in Dallas, TX. “I am the daughter of the King of Kings. I know my purpose is to manifest Heaven on Earth,” she says.

She is also the daughter of Kelvin and Sharon Duncan. Danielle graduated from Scotlandville Magnet High School in Baton Rouge and earned her B.A. in Business Management with a concentration in Small Business and Entrepreneurship from Southeastern Louisiana University. Additionally, she earned her Master’s in the Art of Teaching from Grand Canyon University and is a certified business educator in the states of Louisiana and Texas. She has served as a high school teacher for seven years, teaching various business courses. Yet, Danielle’s most impressive feat is having authored and being the founder of “Girl, It’s Go Time”.

The purpose of the book Danielle says is to empower women to get off the sideline and pursue their dreams boldly. The theme of the book is traveling from your current routine to the life you were designed to live. The business component for “Girl, It’s Go Time” serves as a platform that she uses to coach and speak. “This originally was just the title of my first book, but has now turned into a national brand,” she says.

Danielle shares that her writing journey began by journaling daily. “It was a release for me and a chance to get my thoughts down on paper. When the idea of writing a book came about, I rejected it.

That is not what I wanted to do. However, the Holy Spirit continued to say that was my next assignment.

I would start writing and then stop. This happened multiple times. One day, I asked God what my next assignment was? He said, “Finish the book”. At that point I knew what I had to do and got serious about completing the book. In July of 2019, it was published and available for purchase,” she says.

“Girl, It’s Go Time” is available in autographed paperback and digital download. The book also includes a 21 Day Devotional.

Danielle also serves as a start-up business coach for female entrepreneurs. While doing so she has merged her degree in business, her Master’s in teaching, and her relationship with God to give her clients a unique growth experience in their businesses. She shares, “I help my clients eliminate fear and create a strategy for success to win in the marketplace. Female entrepreneurs can connect with me through consultations, coaching sessions, and coaching packages and are invited to share more about their businesses and current struggles. I help them get clarity and provide guidance on what their next steps should be.”

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As a speaker, Danielle makes herself available for conferences, brunches, virtual webinars, and more. She speaks on the topics of purpose, not settling, empowerment, business start-ups, and self-confidence. Even more, she designs inspirational apparel including t-shirts, masks, and mugs that encourage others to take their lives to the next level. All her products and services are available on her website.

Danielle has a genuine love for what she does. “I love helping female entrepreneurs win in the marketplace. Many women have amazing products and services, but they need a coach to help them position themselves for success. When the light goes off in my client’s head, I know that I am making a difference,” she says.

As a child of God, and a believer in His mighty works, Danielle says it has been her relationship with God that has impacted her life the most. “I was introduced to Christ at an early age, and through the years, that relationship has grown stronger. My mom always was praying over me and my brother, and now my husband leads us in prayer daily. My pastors have always guided me into a deeper relationship with God and have taught me how to use my words to manifest my future,” she says.

She finds inspiration in any woman who is living for Christ and making a positive impact on the marketplace. She describes these as women who have multiple businesses and acknowledge that it was God who got them to that place.

Danielle offers some sound advice to others who may follow in her footsteps “Stay the course. Every day might not look like you are winning. Perhaps, you might just be in training. Above everything else, be sure that you are being led by the Holy Spirit. When you have multiple ideas at once, instead of letting them overwhelm you, write them down and focus on one at a time. Give each idea six months of dedication. Once that is rolling, move on to the next idea. Remember to invest in yourself, and not just your business. You can accomplish this by taking courses, reading books, and utilizing the services of a coach. And try to and attend events. By doing these things, your value will increase overall,” she says.

Danielle Bertrand www.girlitsgotime.com mrs.daniellebertrand@gmail.com Instagram: @girlitsgotime Facebook: @girlitsgotime 8

Moving forward, has plans to increase the amount of clients that she coaches on a monthly basis, and do more speaking engagements. She also plans to expand “Girl, It’s Go Time”to become a household name. There are also plans for her to host a two-day, power packed conference. “The most important plan I have is to live my life as an example of what it means to say ‘yes’ to God when He says, “Girl, It’s Go Time.” h

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Kevin Hayes MJ Footworkz Inc.

“The World’s Famous Michael Jackson Impersonator”

By Laci Ollsion Photos by Todd Youngblood Photography In 2009, Michael Jackson tragically passed away, leaving the world distraught, shocked, and in disbelief. Dubbed the “King of Pop,” Jackson touched the lives of many through his invigorating music, electrifying dance moves, and engaging live performances. Although his untimely death left a void in the hearts of many, Kevin Hayes has found a way to keep MJ’s memory alive as a Michael Jackson impersonator.

Originally from Winston-Salem, North Carolina, Kevin Hayes began his career as an impersonator after performing with a group called Rambo Productions. “We did shows and performances all over the East Coast,” said Kevin. “We traveled a lot from Georgia all the way to New York.”

Kevin says he was hesitant at first about fully becoming a Michael Jackson impersonator though. “A guy asked me had I thought about wearing the makeup and hair,” Kevin recalled.

“At first I wasn’t going to do it but then something told me to do it.”

Although Kevin had already begun his career as an MJ impersonator, it wasn’t until the pop star passed that Kevin decided to fully become an impersonator, investing in hair, makeup, and outfits that resembled some of the most memorable styles from the King of Pop. Continued on the next page

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“When I go to places it’s mind blowing. The crowd energy keeps me going and the minute I hit the stage, the energy is on another level. It feels good to be able to captivate someone.”

“I didn’t know the impact I would have,” Kevin said. “I have seen that I have an effect on children, elderly people, and handicapped people and it’s just amazing.”

Now, Kevin is bringing smiles to faces of all ages and rekindling memories of the pop star for fans who are missing his music and style. “I’ve done parties for kids from 3-years-old to elderly people up to 70-years-old,” said Kevin. “There are even kids who love Michael Jackson which is surprising to me sometimes. But it’s been an honor to be able to embody a legend.”

Kevin recalls being a Michael Jackson fan himself, even from an early age. Watching the King of Pop on television, he begged his mother for clothes that resembled MJ’s. “Back in 1978 Is when Motown 5 came on tv, I’ll never forget that’s the first time Michael Jackson did the moonwalk,” Kevin said. “Everyone was trying to do the moonwalk. And when Michael started wearing the beaded jacket, glove, and jerry curl, I told my mom that I wanted all of that. But she said no.”

But Kevin is proud that now as an impersonator, he is able to buy his own lookalike Michael Jackson attire. His favorite part of being an impersonator is being able to connect with a crowd and feeling the energy as he is performing.

“When I go to places it’s mind blowing,” said Kevin. “The crowd energy keeps me going and the minute I hit the stage, the energy is on another level. It feels good to be able to captivate someone.” Although Kevin replicates a lot of Michael’s signature moves, he says that incorporating his own style is what allows him to really connect with each song and show his own personality through his performances.

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“You have to tweak each routine to make it your own,” said Kevin. “Yes, Michael had certain moves. When you’re an entertainer like him, you have to show people that you like to do what you do.” Kevin said that some other impersonators may like to copy Michael Jackson’s every single move, but he says that adding your own flare to your performance gives people a chance to know who you are as a performer. “Make it your own, it gives people a memory.”

For aspiring impersonators, he advises them to do the same, and utilize their imagination. “The best advice I can give to someone who wants to be a Michael Jackson impersonator is to enhance your imagination, because that’s what Michael had. He had a wild imagination but that’s what made people captivated.”

Kevin’s favorite MJ songs include “Heartbreak Hotel, Off the Wall, and Wanna Be Starting Something. When he’s not performing, Kevin enjoys meditating, exercising, and watching comedy movies.

Although Kevin is now a full-time Michael Jackson impersonator, it was his love for dance that sparked his career choice. His own style of dance is influenced and inspired by Boogaloo Shrimp, Chris Brown, Channing Tatum, Gregory Hines, James Brown, Janet Jackson, Levelle Smith Jr, Michael Jackson, Pavan Thimmiah, Shabba Doo, and Usher.

Kevin has danced for celebrity stars from the East Coast to the West Coast. He has opened up for the Busta Brown Summer Festival, CIAA Half-Time (1997), Doug E. Fresh, Kid n’Play, Ki Ki Sheppard (Tribute to Roger Troutman), Outkast and Wu-Tang Clan. He also auditioned for America’s Got Talent (2014), Beyonce World Tour (2006), 102 Jamz Crew, and became a backup dancer for N-Tyce and performed with Mr. Bill’s Productions.

He is also proud to have worked with performers such as Fantasia, Anthony Hamilton, and Sunshine Anderson.

He has performed in places such as the Universoul Circus, North Carolina A&T Homecoming, Winston Salem State University Homecoming, and the Queen Charlotte Parade.

Kevin has won various dance titles and accolades for Best Dance Group – Dem Carolina Boyz & 85 South Boyz in 2006, 2010 and 2014. In 2014, Kevin became the Founder and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Footworkz, LLC. Kevin has positioned himself as one of the most in demand performers and choreographers in North Carolina. He is extremely talented both as a dancer and choreographer. He has a passion for dance and wants to bring that same energy to others.

Kevin is currently a Charlotte, North Carolina native and h is known as “The World Famous MJ Impersonator.”

MAU: Kathy Pate Dancers: Kevin T. Stevenson, Jasmine Gray, and Shameika Nolen

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The Face of WeCare

By Laci Ollison Photos by Gwendolyn Wilson Photography

Many people dream of starting one business and becoming a successful entrepreneur. But for Jemmalyn Hewlett, she sought to establish multiple businesses and create generational wealth that would be passed down to her children and generations to come.

Jemmalyn is the owner of We Care enterprises: the umbrella company for seven different businesses ranging from a juice bar, café, behavioral health services, and a salon and spa.

Her business We Care Community Services offers a group home for individuals with developmental disabilities and has corporate offices in Richmond and Virginia Beach.

At her salon and spa location, individuals with disabilities have a special day on Monday where they can receive services.

We Care Training provides medication, cpr, and other continuing education courses for employees of her community service businesses as well as other behavioral healthcare providers.

Recently, Jemmalyn opened We Care Salon Café next to her salon and spa. “Every time I came in the salon, I saw people eating,” she said. “So I decided to open up a café. We also offer free delivery to other salons and barbershops within a four mile radius. We have a full bar, breakfast all day, and a hot bar.”

But Jemmalyn doesn’t run these businesses on her own. She has created opportunities for her son, Trayvian Lewis, and her daughter, Ashley Lewis, to manage and own businesses as well.

“I’m very big on generational wealth. It is very important for me to have my kids working with me and for them to know how the businesses are ran. If something were to happen to me I know that they can take it to the next level.”

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“I’m very big on generational wealth. It is very important for me to have my kids working with me and for them to know how the businesses are ran. If something were to happen to me I know that they can take it to the next level.”

Jemmalyn Hewlett 19

wecarejuicebar1@gmail.com 757-937-9898

www.poolsidecooking.com 844-652-9120

Jemmalyn said that it was important to instill entrepreneurship into her children. “I tell them all the time that they don’t have to work for someone else,” she said. “You can determine your own pay and you don’t have to ask someone else for a raise. When you work for someone else you have to wait for them to determine that you get a small increase. But when you’re working for yourself, you determine whether you make money or not.”

Now, her daughter is opening up a second location of their We Care Community Services business, which will also provide support for individuals with developmental disabilities.

Although Jemmalyn is now a successful serial entrepreneur, she hasn’t always been a business owner. “In 2011 I was working at a medical school as a coder biller making $24,000,” the mogul said. “I was tired of being broke. So, from there I looked into opening up a medical transportation business.”

Jemmalyn said that she used an income tax refund check of $4,200 to purchase her first vehicle that she used to catapult her business.

“All of my businesses were built from reinvesting into myself,” said Jemmalyn. “I remember telling a friend of mine that when I started the business that I didn’t have the knowledge, money, or experience. The first thing she asked me was how I was going to open a business. I took the chance and now I own seven businesses.”

The business owner said that although she doesn’t have experience in the fields that her businesses are in, it has been her ability to multitask and hand off tasks that has helped in making her businesses successful.

www.wecaretrainingservices.com 844-652-9120

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www.wecaresaloncafe.net 757-937-1292

4676 Princess Anne Road - Suite 120 Virginia Beach, VA 23462 757-226-9810

“The key is to know how to multitask and put people in place,” Jemmalyn said. “I’m able to do what I do because I’m not in the field. I opened a café, but I don’t cook. I have a training center but I’m not an instructor.

I’m able to put people in place who love what they do. I just so happened to open up business that aren’t in my field.”

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“Anyone can open a business but when you can still be in business, that’s when you’ve made it. Often times people stop because they feel like they’ve failed. They’re afraid of failure, but you are going to fail.

All of those things will just be a learning lesson.”

Jemmalyn Hewlett

Jemmalyn says that it isn’t about having a certain degree or even skill set to start and maintain a business. “You don’t have to have the degree or the experience or gift to start a business. It’s really determination that you need. Anyone can work hard, but when you work hard for a purpose, that’s when you see results.”

For Jemmalyn, the thing she is most proud of is the fact that she has been able to keep the doors of all her businesses open.

“The face that I’m still in business is what I’m most proud of,” Jemmalyn said. “Anyone can open a business but when you can still be in business, that’s when you’ve made it.

Often times people stop because they feel like they’ve failed. They’re afraid of failure, but you are going to fail. All of those things will just be a learning lesson.”

But Jemmalyn said that it was her struggles that made her to be the business owner she is today. “I would’ve never gotten to the point where I was running seven businesses if I didn’t go through some things,” she said. “Your negative is your positive and your bad days are your good days. You can’t allow your bad days to affect what you’re doing.”

For We Care Enterprises, Jemmalyn said that in the next five years she hopes to go wherever God leads her. “I’m big on growing the business,” she said. “I’m staying on top of my kids and making sure we enjoy what we have. Because when you open a business, your goals don’t stop. Your goals are actually just now starting.”

Jemmalyn has also launched a cooking show called “Poolside Cooking.” The show will feature area chefs cooking by an outdoor pool. The show currently airs locally but will soon be viewed nationwide through the Roku app. h

Jemmalyn’s chidren, Ashley Lewis and Trayvian Lewis are the joining forces that help to solidy the WeCare family of brands.

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A Better You 24

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By Terry L. Watson Photos by DeAndre Cannon It’s time to get into shape Atlanta. DeAndre Cannon is an ISSA Certified Personal Trainer and owner of Better You ATL, located in Atlanta, GA. Originally from Omaha, Nebraska, DeAndre holds a Bachelors Degree in Exercise Science from the University of Nebraska, and a Masters degree in Nutrition. Additionally, he is a Men’s IPE Physique Pro + NPC National Qualifier and competes often in bodybuilding competitions.

For almost a decade, DeAndre has worked with a multitude of clients including beginners, athletes, and professional bodybuilders. “Working with and utilizing my skill sets as your personal trainer and nutrition coach will guarantee you transforming results. As the owner of A Better You ATL Fitness, my goal is to help my clients feel their very best, without regard to their fitness level,” he says.

DeAndre shares that for years, the fitness industry has relied on ineffective workouts, unrealistic diets, and do-nothing supplements as quick and temporary solutions. Yet, he offers a different approach. With his education and experience, DeAndre employs a signature training methodology that includes customized workouts and nutrition plans backed by science, as well as trial and error.

DeAndre launched his business 10 years ago. “In college, I trained people in the gyms of apartments, and in parks to save money to open my own gym,” he says. He opened his first gym in Omaha in 2013 and kept the citizens of Omaha fit for five years before moving to Atlanta. Since doing so, he has incorporated a mobile app into his program to better meet the needs of his clients. “With my app, I have gained a broader reach over my current and future clients with my personalized online program,” he says.

DeAndre offers various products and services, mainly because of the diversity that his clientele represents. These include a Personalized Online training program, and habit forming, weekly workouts designed specifically for each individual client that can be purchased separately or together with his personalized meal plans. He also offers Personalized Meal Plans that are specifically for each individual client and can be purchased separately or together with personalized workouts.

DeAndre also has training guides designed to address general fitness goals and levels. These guides can assist clients who aren’t ready for personalized training but still want to focus on the importance of having sound fitness and eating habits to optimize their body goals.

DeAndre is naturally driven and he shares his compassion and love with his clients in the form of change. “I love helping my clients go from where they are today, to achieving their body goals, and gain confidence while growing physically and mentally,” he says. He is also inspired by the achievements and accomplishments of his clients.

He offers some advice to those who may follow in his footsteps. “Stay away from fads and gimmicks. Be yourself and focus on helping your clients achieve their goals,” he says.

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DeAndre Cannon www.ABetterYouAtl.com HuamiMagazine.com

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SPetrospect imone Coleman Pet Sitting Services Terry L. Watson Photos by Simone Coleman

Simone Coleman of Nashville, TN is a pet sitter and a natural lover of animals. She is also someone who is best described as “the not so average girl next door”. Her vivacious personality and appeal compliment her personality, skills that assist her with operating her business, Petrospect Pet Sitting Services.

After a career with the NBA and working for the Philadelphia 76ers and Miami Heat franchise’s by providing season ticket sales, Simone relocated back to Middle Tennessee. Soon her love for animals and pets in particular would play a huge role in her life.

In so many words, Simone is a pet sitter. With something that initially began as a “side hustle” she turned into a serious operation. With her business Petrospect, Simone specializes in caring for larger breed dogs and those that may have a sense of separation anxiety. Some of the services she offers are In Home - Boarding (at the pet sitter’s home), In Home - Daycare, Housesitting, Drop-in Visits, Dog Park Visits, Dog Walks, Pet Photography, and Urgent/ On Call Pet sitting.

The idea of Petrospect came in 2018, after someone asked Simone to pet sit. “It was an interesting idea,” she says. Soon she began accepting clients on a part time basis using the Rover app platform. Over the following two years, the feedback and encouragement from client testimonials, including how satisfied and pleased they were with her services, took Simone’s personal confidence to new heights. And so Petrospect was born.

In September of 2019, Simone officially licensed her business as Petrospect, and established it on a platform of providing pet sitting services from her home. She then created a logo, developed a brand, and launched an advertising campaign online through social media. “Things really began to take off,” she shares.

As fate would have it, Simone would soon face some adversity with her business with the onset of the Covid 19 pandemic. “I thought I would never see a dog again, mainly because my business was based on people working away from their home, or when they traveled. Those things were immediately halted. Still I overcame the Covid 19 pandemic and decided to get my company bonded and insured so that I had the necessary credentials for business. After doing all of that I decided to take my business full time,” she shares.

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For any business to be successful, there must be a genuine love for it. In Simone’s case, her love is centered around caring for animals and providing her clients with great service. “My clients pets provide me with a second dose of mental health therapy outside of my regular therapy sessions. I’m able to not only provide a service to my clients with exceptional pet care, but I provide myself with the service of unconditional love from pets, every single day. Pets who are dealing with separation anxiety are another reason I love what I do, because I’ve learned through my own mental health therapy that separation anxiety in pets is the exact same as loneliness in humans. I do this full time, which means I’m at home enough during the day to provide less loneliness for myself and my clients pets. Even more, as a mental health advocate, I understand and appreciate the value of the services I offer. I am a three time suicide attempt survivor, and most of my clients don’t even know that a day with their pet, is a day that I am less depressed, and is a day that I have less to zero suicidal ideation. It’s a win, win situation all the way around,” she explains.

Being an entrepreneur and having the ability to work full time from home has its perks. “I love being an entrepreneur because I love seeing money made by a brand, a service, and a smile that are of my very own. I love the fact that I’m an anomaly in the pet care industry as well. I am a female, and black.

Statistically, blacks are currently rare in providing pet care services, and people, like myself get to be some of the groundbreaking entrepreneurs to show that the future is abundant in equality for pet care providers,” she shares.

For others who may be thinking of starting a business, Simone offers some advice. “Seek a therapist. When starting a business of any sort, if you have access to a therapist, utilize it. Talk to someone that has no connection to your life so that you can focus and allow them to provide you with nonjudgmental feedback. You must also study your trade. I once thought I was not going to pet sit full time. I started researching the top market in Nashville which is real estate. One might think, what does this have to do with pet sitting. Well, I learned that in the Nashville area, more people were moving in with pets than having children. After learning this, it helped to boost my confidence tremendously and I realized that I could prosper in the Nashville area.

And finally, please hire an accountant!”

Moving forward, Simone hopes to continue providing a more boutique style of in-home pet care for years to come. Furthermore, she’s looking to implement a future endeavor that would incorporate pets in more lives of those with mental health issues. Contact Petrospect Pet Sitting Services today for all your pet sitting needs. h

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Inspire by

Maria Rochelle

By Terry L. Watson Photos by Maria Rochelle

Maria Anderson-Moton is a bona fide hustler and is strategically establishing herself in the world of business and entrepreneurship.

The Memphis Tennessee native and now Dallas/ Fort Texas resident can be described as loving, reliable, giving, and resourceful. She has defied the odds and overcome many obstacles in her lifetime. Maria was raised in a poverty-stricken home. After losing her mother when she was only three years old, instead of falling behind, she rose to the moment and taught herself how to read and write. She has endured many struggles, both internally and externally, yet she persevered and never accepted defeat as an option.

At the age of 12, Maria started working a job as a means to survive, and she has never looked back.

“Each day is another opportunity to be optimistic, an inspiration and be a blessing to others. When the enemy said no, God said yes,” she professes.

Today, Maria is a loving mother of three beautiful children, and a full-fledged entrepreneur, having started multiple businesses. These include MariaSellsBK, Cookie’s Closet, Inspire by MariaRoChelle, and Inspiring You 2 Inspire Others.

With MariaSellsBK, she offers adult intimate products, sexual education books, multi-purposed wellness products, cosmetics, and much more. With Cookie’s Closet, her focus is to provide her clients with closet decluttering and organization services. “During the decluttering process, I will have the customer to confirm if they would like to keep the item for use or declutter. If the customer chooses to give unwanted items to charity, I gather the items and drop them off.

In the organizational process, I organize items in the closet after consulting with the customer. Next, the customer can decide what they want, and I comply,” she says. Inspire by MariaRoChelle is a life coaching and notary business. Lastly, Inspiring You 2 Inspire Them is an upcoming non-profit organization that will assist survivors of domestic violence with resources and support.

“Each day is another opportunity to be optimistic, an inspiration and be a blessing to others. When the enemy said no, God said yes.”

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Presently, Maria is providing resources such as housing, food, utility and gas assistance. Additionally, she also teaches her clients how not to become victims of domestic violence and be self-sufficient. She is also in the process of obtaining her 501c3 for the organization.

Each of Maria’s businesses officially started in 2020. “It was like a domino effect, she shares. “Once I started one, then I started the others”. She has been a life coach for individuals and families for several years and been commended for her ability to make others feel at ease while talking with them. She has worked at companies as a Health Advocate or Family Support before deciding to become certified. “I believe that life was never meant for it to be lived alone, and in my life coaching sessions I am my client’s cheerleader and accountability partner. You never know what you are capable of until you see it from someone else’s perspective. I never thought I was an awesome wife, mom, and friend until someone named all the things I accomplish on a daily basis. Many people go day to day dwelling on what’s wrong about their life. I concentrate on the good and address how we should go about correcting the wrong.”

Maria has spent the last five years researching and gathering information for my planned nonprofit. “I’ve always wanted to help others and believe the purpose of each trial or tribulation I have gone through was to assist others. At age 14, I attempted suicide due to the long term sexual and mental abuse I had endured. At age 26, I found myself starting life over after leaving my ex-husband.

It was time to end the 10 years of being physically, emotionally, and mentally abused. I thank the Lord for life. Though I have been chipped, I am not broken,” she says.

Maria shares her belief of how many people fall victim to domestic violence due to a lack of information or a support system.

“Victims are people who succumb, and survivors are people who survived. I am a survivor, and not a victim. Therefore, I am providing resources and services to bring forth more survivors and eventually end domestic violence once and for all,” she says.

The concept of Cookie’s Closet came to Maria like most other things in her life. “Anytime I am upset or just bored, I go to my closet. It is my “happy place”. I have organized closets for a few family members and friends back in Memphis, and they would always encourage me to organize for a living. When I moved to Fort Worth, I posted my closet on social media and people loved it.

So, I decided to start a closet decluttering and organization business,” Maria says.

For some time, Maria wanted to bring the ‘sexy’ into the bedroom. Kandi Burruss (Xscape, Real Housewives of Atlanta) has been an inspiration for her dating back to 2000. So when she started the Bedroom Kandi Parties Boutique in 2012, Maria wanted to join the company but worried what others would think. When COVID-19 pandemic arrived, the economy experienced a negative shift and many people were being laid off from their jobs or were furloughed. The wheels in her head started to turn. Maria says she watched Kandi’s Instagram feed one day, the “Don’t Rush Challenge” and immediately realized that it was time for her to take a leap of faith.

“I consulted with my then husband who approved, and MariaSellsBK was born,” she shares. “Kandi teaches and encourages us to have multiple streams of income. Our motto is to earn, empower, and educate.”

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Maria is inspired by her mother’s Cynthia Anderson and Dot Fletcher, and her children Ronald, Kiera, and MacKenzie. The loss of her biological mother at such an early age was detrimental she says. However, it shaped her into the person she is now. “My mothers’ memory pushes me on each day,” she says.

Her adopted mother, who is also her cousin stepped in at a time when she was completely lost. She gave Maria wisdom, love, and support; something that she wasn’t accustomed to. She also shares how she was told she would never have kids and then it happened.

“Never could I imagine a world without them. I am blessed to have my babies and thank God for trusting me enough to be their mother. I want to make them proud because they deserve nothing but my very best,” Maria says.

In the future, Maria is planning to acquire an actual suite instead of working from home. She is also in the process of creating websites for all her businesses.

There are also talks of writing a book. Who knows,” she says.

For those who may follow in her footsteps, she offers some advice. “Pray and ask God for direction.

Prayer absolutely works. There’s power in words so speak whatever you want into existence. Never give up. If you do not have a healthy support system, you must get you one. You will have some days when you question your plans, actions, and vision. Just know that the enemy will make attempts to derail you. You will need someone to discourage you from throwing in the towel. You must stay optimistic and think positive.

If you believe things will never work out, it may not.

Write your vision down and steps to make it happen.

Research and network with like-minded people. Don’t be afraid to move,” she says.

To contact me, please send an email to: mariasellsbk@gmail.com inspirebymariarochelle@gmail.com cookiesclosetprogram@gmail.com inspiringthem2020@gmail.com If you would like to purchase Bedroom Kandi and/or Kandi Koated Cosmetics, join my team or host a free party, please visit my website: mariasellsbk.com/ kandikoated.com/11984 817-984-5969 33

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By Terry L. Watson Photos by Cory L Walker

According to Cory Walker, who is also affectionately known as Cory The Coach, the definition of a fulfilled life must include humility and service to others. He is an innovator and prides himself on being a daring risk taker.

“I have been first in a lot of things in my life, now I am learning to finish strong,” he shares. “My life’s works are about service and empowerment to many. There are a lot of people whom I have been fortunate enough to help realize their true potential and thrive both personally and in business.”

TThe Arkansas native, who also lived in Georgia and in Texas, has committed his life to service. Being firmly planted on a foundation of integrity, Cory describes himself as a man of his word who goes above and beyond to help people win. He is a believer, a loving husband, father, entertainer, and serial entrepreneur who does not mind telling you the truth.

Public speaking and training are two of his specialties, but he is impressively multi-talented and a critical thinker.

He is certified in DISC Communication & Behavior Styles and in the Motivators Models. “Training is like a ministry to me.

The feeling is amazing when I take the floor and begin to speak. It’s beyond me how people’s lives are literally being changed while I am presenting,” he says.

Cory has also been blessed with the ability to think forward. “I’m an innovator. I have been blessed with an incredible gift to make things better, and seemingly, to operate in the future,” he says. In 2001, he created Arkansas’ first online business directory, (www.

ResourceAR.com). Its purpose was to give people …access to information for personal, business, entertainment, and worship needs. From any location in the state, users could find what they were looking for with the click of a mouse.

Today, Cory is the owner and face of Pinnacle Solutions Group LLC. His company is a unique business solutions provider domiciled in Arkansas, providing services to small and medium size businesses nationwide. “We are a onestop solutions shop for making the right things happen and getting results that create opportunities for success. I have an amazing team that does outstanding work. Even better, the services we provide are customizable and affordable,” he says.

Currently, Pinnacle Solutions Group LLC is well underway in its peak season of employee benefits enrollment. They are simultaneously targeting minority owned business for management consulting, employee development and training, beginning in early Spring of 2021.

My life’s works are about more than money and success, they’re about service and empowerment to many.

There’s a lot of people whom I have been fortunate enough to help realize their true potential and thrive both personally and in business.

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Cory shares that he believes a significant number of minorityowned/operated businesses stunt their growth because they are not prepared for growth. “Running a business entails more than just selling products and services. It entails operations management, excellent customer service, and quality control.

A company’s management and staff must operate in tandem to achieve peak performance and perpetual success.”

Cory’s journey as a ‘serious’ entrepreneur began in 2004, out of necessity. “I was hungry for more. I was college educated, broke, and fresh out of a job.. Ironically, the answer to my prayers came in the form of a business opportunity in October.

I had to borrow $149 investment amount to get started. I had no idea I was beginning a transformation journey that would change the rest of my life,” says Cory.

As a platform to add value to his business in pursuit of expanding his target market, Cory began developing a membership platform for small businesses in 2008. It never really got off the ground, but he shares it was a cool concept that eventually lead to other opportunities. In 2013, he began selling life insurance on a part-time basis.

After relocating home to Arkansas from Texas, he began hosting networking events for professionals and entrepreneurs under the title of IBO (Independent Business Owner) Partners.

That happened while working full time as a professional development trainer, and still selling life insurance. In that experience, he says he discovered a void that needed to be filled; small and medium sized businesses were lacking access to training and services that could help to protect and grow them. In December of 2017, he ‘accidentally’ pre-launched Pinnacle Solutions Group LLC. Though the business is fully operational and attracting new clients, the official launch event for PSG and the Southern MinorityBiz Network will take place on January 4, 2021. “This is significant because we are beating the odds for most newly established businesses,” he says.

Running a business entails more than just selling products and services. It entails operations management, excellent customer service, and quality control. A company’s management and staff must operate in tandem to achieve peak performance and perpetual success.

Some of the services offered by Pinnacle Solutions Group LLC are Professional Development and Leadership Training, Small Business Consulting, Voluntary Group Benefits, (Arkansas and Texas - Tennessee pending), access to Telemedicine, LegalShield Group Benefits and ID Shield Group Benefits (Arkansas, Florida, Texas, Georgia, Louisiana, Missouri, North Carolina, Oklahoma), Certified Business and Life Coaching, Freight/LTL Management, Bookkeeping & Taxes (Arkansas only), Notary Public (Arkansas only), and COVID-19 Response (South Region, Midwest, East Coast).

Just as any other business, Pinnacle Solutions Group LLC has been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the quarantine presented an opportunity for Cory to position the company as a valuable resource. “So many times, I have been ahead of the market, and here I am once again, doing the future now. This time around I am better prepared to handle the demands and obstacles of introducing a unique, multifaced business platform to the market. With a portion of my target market attempting to recover, there is plenty of opportunity for us to serve businesses that need our help. However, the ability to provide individuals and families access to many of the same services is currently playing a major part in creating stability,” Cory says.

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For anything to be successful, authenticity and love must be involved. Cory has them both. “I love the feeling I get from being able to design and create solutions through consulting. It’s an amazing feeling to help someone find the right path for themselves and show them how to pursue their goals in a time and costeffective manner. We are helping both entrepreneurs and professionals on various levels with various services and resources that meet their needs. It’s rewarding and exciting to think, we are just beginning to make noise in the market.”

Cory is mostly inspired by his parents, Houston and Mildred Walker. He says they weren’t business professionals, but had a natural ability for conducting business. “Even in their struggles, they produced what we needed and still managed to help a lot of people in the College Station (AR) community, and beyond.

Even though they are with the Lord, thinking about their accomplishments through all of their personal challenges, continue to drive me. Because I have a sincere appreciation for their drive and ambition, I am equipped to inspire others as I pursue my passion to serve and achieve success on various levels of human endeavor,” he says. “I love my parents and cherish my memories of them. They were the world’s greatest,” he says.

Cory offers some advice for others who may follow in his footsteps and are planning to start a business. “You must pray and believe. Determine who you are. Love who you are. Decide what you want to do and do it no matter how many times you have to start over. Focus on your passion and let the haters and nay-sayers help fuel your fire. Don’t act like a boss – be the boss. Be humble, grateful, and serve others. Moreover, you must invest your time and money in not just your business, but into your personal growth and protection. Network and meet new people. Seek out a mentor. Do not limit your thinking and know when to let go of things that hinder you. Fight to fulfill your purpose and for the things you truly desire.”

Cory is excited and optimistic about the future for himself and for his business. Presently, PSG is in the process of pre-launching the Southern MinorityBiz Network, powered by Pinnacle Solutions Group, beginning October 1, 2020. “I am expecting this network to spread across the state of Arkansas fairly quickly and with fanfare. While there is no cost to be a part of the social media group, there is a paid membership that will give minority entrepreneurs access to free and discounted services, resources, training, and referral opportunities. There will also be a chance to have some serious networking fun, with all roads leading to January 04, 2021,” he says. Along with the network, they will continue to provide services that make a difference for all small and medium size businesses. “Lastly, I will continue to speak and train, while pursing growth and success as a business leader and CEO of Pinnacle Solutions Group LLC,” he says. h

Pinnacle Solutions Group LLC www.pinnaclesolutionsgroup.net 501-487-1842 39

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CenterStage In The City

Creating Memories That Last A Lifetime

By Dawn Cauthen Thornton Photos by Still Shots Photography This year has been nothing short of conflicting.

In the middle of a worldwide health pandemic, we’ve all had to make unimaginable pivots in our daily lives. Families can’t celebrate important milestones or even partake in activities together unless there are less than 50 people in attendance.

Even still, how does one decide on who to invite, how to interact, and simply how to conduct a gathering?

Many businesses have decided to completely shut down because customers aren’t calling, money is tight, and people’s health is the number priority. Instead of closing their doors, CenterStage in the City went into survival mode adjusted their business practices to reopen and continue effectively serving the needs of their clients, while putting safety first. Co-Owners and Lamont Bradsher and Stephanie Carver put their creative minds together and crafted ways for couples to share their wedding day, baby gender reveals, birthday parties, and other important events with their loved ones, without completely missing out on the moment.

A popular work-around has been to pre-record the special day as if it were pre-Covid-19, complete with entertainment, lighting, décor, and any other happenings, then present it on the actual day as scheduled.

“If you don’t tell anyone, they won’t know that the event was pre-recorded. Then they can use their own platform and their friends and family can log in and watch as if they’re there on the actual date you’ve set,” explains Carver, who serves as the manager of the business. Her responsibilities are endless It takes an enormous amount of effort to plan this type of event, but it has become one of the more popular options. The couple will travel to unlimited locations and currently has a partnership with Grandover Resort in Greensboro, NC.

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Lamont Bradsher’s Sumthin 4 Tha People Band is often available to perform, and custom Gobo lighting can be installed to better enhance the experience.

With these packages, Bradsher’s Sumthin 4 Tha People Band is often available to perform, custom Gobo lighting can be installed to better enhance the experience. Evenmore, Carver puts her graphic design expertise to good use and creates signage to be displayed on walls, floors and any surface chosen.

Carver has found herself creating more signage for businesses explaining CDC guidelines, and social distancing requirements, including floor and wall stickers, banners and even stencils since stickers peel and wear down.

Their menu of options doesn’t stop there. As the pandemic looms, the couple offers virtual homegoing services, digital commemorative booklets (video and print), and a full sound package for the celebration of life. The two try to make the daunting process as easy as possible for the grieving family.

Innovation has been forced on the world since March, and Bradsher and Carver have found great value in the virtual world. “We can reach so many more people at one time, so we know that what we’re doing works. And I want to take out the negative stigma that a lot of people may have,” Carver says.

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The couple has found that once someone receives the video of a special event they were scheduled to attend, they actually enjoy it just as much, if not more than being in person because they leave with a professional video they can look at for years to come. And if you need the equipment to view the videos, Bradsher has partnered with AV Gorilla for audio-visual installations.

CenterStage in the City is a one-stop shop for planning amazing events, and the two faith-filled owners haven’t spared one detail to properly serve their customers. They’re implementing ideas daily to assist their clients in staying connected to those they love without missing the in-person interaction.

It’s evident that Carver and Bradsher pour every ounce of energy into their endeavors and they proudly serve faithfully while doing it. From parenting, to ministry, to entertaining, they plan to do it all and God guides them every step of the way.

h

Stephanie Carver has found herself creating more signage for businesses explaining CDC guidelines, and social distancing requirements, including floor and wall stickers, banners and even stencils since stickers peel and wear down.

www.centerstageinthecity.com 919-724-5926 919-599-5656

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“A Promise Kept” 44

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By Dr. Marrrissa Dick Photos by JLG Photography How often do you keep your promise(s)? If you are like most people, you make commitments to others all the time without really considering the ramifications of following through on your word. It can be a daunting task to follow through on every single promise you make in life, but how many you break and how you handle it when you do is key to understanding yourself.

According to Wikipedia, A promise is “a commitment by someone to do or not do something. As a noun a promise is a declaration assuring that one will or will not do something. As a verb it means to commit oneself by a promise to do or give. A promise can also mean a capacity for good, similar to a value that is to be realized in the near future.” Meet Pastor Anthony Knotts, husband, father, entrepreneur, restaurant owner, community leader, and promise keeper.

Pastor Knotts understands the integrity connected with keeping your word. He shares, “This all started because I made a promise to my children. I told them if they ever decided to go to college that a part of me giving them a head start is that they would not have to pay for it.

So my baby girl took me up on that promise and told me she wanted to go to college and all I remember thinking was that I had no money to send her, but I see her steady applying to all of these institutions because she’s expecting me to keep my promise. All I could do was pray because I didn’t know where the money was coming from.”

Spiritually, Pastor Knotts understands that prayer is like a sweet perfume for God. He knows that God’s ears and heart are always open to listen to our petitions especially when that prayer comes from a place of humility and sincerity. As a pastor, he also knows that Philippians 4:6-7 reminds us, ““Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your request to God” and so, instead of being anxious as he watched his daughter, Destiny, submit application after application to attend the college of her choice, he prayed without ceasing.

As a father, Pastor Knotts recognizes the importance of keeping his word to his family. When we make promises and do not keep them that signals to the person, we made the promise to that they cannot count on us and

“This all started because I made a promise to my children. I told them if they ever decided to go to college that a part of me giving them a head start is that they would not have to pay for it.”

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Some of the menu items offered are:

Crab Leg Broil George Floyd BroilBo’s Crab Cake AK 47 Lobster Broil Shrimp Mac & Cheese King Crab Broil.....and more!

that our words are void and without value. Just as committed as his daughter was with submitting college applications, he was equally determined to hear a Word from the Lord. And what a Word he received, “I came up with this idea while I was at a conference in Atlanta, Georgia. I went outside to speak with one of my spiritual daughters and get something to eat and while we were out there I heard the Holy Spirt say, “Look around” and as I looked around the Holy Spirit asked me, “What’s missing?” and I repeated, “What’s missing?” and He said, “There are no seafood trucks here” and that’s when it all began. After that I began to notice more food trucks and so I talked about it to my daughter and she was excited about it, too.

So, I started cooking in my backyard; then I moved to the indoor porch and my wife finally felt sorry for me and allowed me to bring my idea into the kitchen! I would invite people over and let them sample the food for free and then I started selling and delivering from my kitchen so that started me thinking about purchasing a food truck especially after I had that conversation with the Holy Ghost and things were going well cooking from home.”

Pastor Knotts tried to find other locations but nothing seemed to really fit his need. We all know that “Favor Ain’t Fair” and in Pastor Knotts case here’s, why, “I got this building that we are in right now debt free because my contractor knew Alexander Devereaux. He reached out to Alvis on my behalf and it was God ordained because Alvis let me use his facility to prepare my food and didn’t charge me a dime. That kindness afforded me the opportunity to grow my business. I took every dime I earned from selling the seafood boils ad reinvested it straight back into the business and we remodeled this location and on July 9, 2019 we had our grand opening in spite of this pandemic we just celebrated one year of being in business. It’s something else because during this pandemic other restaurants have gone out of business but our business has flourished. We have gone from one person to over 25 employees both full-time and part-time. When I look back at it all I shake my head and I give God all the glory because all of this happened from a promise I made to my daughter. God is good, he heard and honored my petition. He provided for me so I could keep my promise to my daughter. I am happy to say that

Seafood Destiny also offers their own line of sauces

Dribble Sauce, Destiny Sauce, and Errythang Sauce 46 46

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she completed her first year of college debt free and we were able to give away our first scholarship to another deserving college student during the pandemic.”

One man’s promise to his daughter in actuality became a blessing to many other students in the community who had desires to attend college.

According to Pastor Knotts, “So the original concept was for my baby but now we have been able to work on scholarships for other students. There’s this young girl from my church who was recently accepted into medical school, so we were able to bless her with $2,500 scholarship to help her get started. We also hosted Ben L. Smith High School’s graduation ceremony here. We fed the students, the administrators, and the teachers.

The students were able to wear their caps and gowns and we did all of this during the pandemic.“ The Bible teaches us that we are blessed so we can be a blessing to others and that is exactly what Pastor Knotts is doing.

He is grateful for the private donations. Because of his work and their contributions, he is able to assist seven to eight students this fall 2020 – spring 2021 academic year.

Pastor Knotts recognizes that his promise was a part of God’s master plan because he is truly able to perform outreach ministry in the hedges and highways during this pandemic. Since he cannot preach the Gospel in the traditional sense, from the pulpit of his church, the Embassy Church, he has established what he has dubbed, a Market Place Ministry. He shares, “God blessed us immensely, so we have been able to feed about 2,500 essential workers from first responders, schoolteachers, hair stylists, postal workers, and bankers. You know I have always cooked fish. When I started our church, I fried fish for the college students and gave it to them. So, what we are doing now is no different. I love seeing the smiles on people’s faces when we serve them a platter because they are receiving mana during this pandemic. All of the hard work we put into preparing the food from slicing the turkey sausage to seasoning the food is God ordained because believe it or not I have never tasted any of this food. God called me on a fast a year ago and He hasn’t released me from it yet, so I have to trust Him with seasoning the food.

We all pray, and some people know that so when they place their order some customers will actually ask us to send up a prayer for this person or that person. So, you see our ministry is so much bigger than just the food. God knew there would be a need for what we have to offer, and He put us in the direct path to be able to fulfill it. At this moment and time, I’m proud to be a part of God’s master plan. I just want to remain true to God’s plan and I want to use Seafood Destiny to continue meeting the needs of the community. This is a community business. It is a way for us to do ministry. At the end of the day it’s all about impacting people’s lives.

Last June I started preaching to our church that God said He wanted to strengthen our ability. He said that He wanted to move in their lives. So now the church has become non-essential, but Seafood Destiny has become essential for our community. This whole thing is bigger than us.”

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Within the last couple of years seafood restaurants have converged on the Triangle Area, in particular, Greensboro has become the home to many other seafood chain restaurants. One might wonder how the good Reverend intends to compete with these conglomerates. What does he have that is going to set his family owned seafood restaurant apart? He says, “I am proud to be a black independent family owned business in an industry that is dominated by corporate and chain seafood restaurants. You know God gave me this idea before all of the other crab places were here but when they opened up, I realized that I was not in competition with them. My goal was to set out to have the best crab leg boil in the Piedmont Triad area. I really believe that nobody in this area has a better crab boil than Seafood Destiny. I am not in competition with anyone especially when God is seasoning the food! You know my son came to me one time because he noticed all of the seafood restaurants opening so he said, ‘dad we need billboards’ and I said son we cannot afford billboards but what we are going to do is take what we have and use it. One of those things we had to use was giving the food away like I’ve always done so people could try it. Everybody thought I was crazy but when I did that people started talking and then the folk just started coming. Word of mouth is much better than any billboard. I think it’s amazing because people come from everywhere Virginia, Mississippi, New York, Maine, and Los Angeles. We actually had a lady from Raleigh place an order and actually drove here to pick it up.

People come to taste the food and that’s why I am not in competition. There’s enough for all of us.”

The menu at Seafood Destiny is intentionally diverse from the types of seafood served. You won’t find any fried fish in this establishment. What you will find; however, are upscale seafood platters named after individuals who have been impactful in his life. Through his bountiful platters Pastor Knotts is mindful when naming his platters. For example, he recently added a George Floyd Platter. One dollar from each of these platters goes towards African American males who desire to attend college.

Pastor Knotts shares, “You know this situation with George Floyd is familiar to me. In 1993 Angelo Robinson was killed at a Waffle House in Concord, NC. He said, ‘I can’t breathe’ too after being pepper sprayed. When Angelo died thousands of people were there and it was amazing but one year later his mother invited me to come back and speak at his memorial service and it wasn’t 50 people there and that had a lasting impact upon me because I was like how can we go from thousands of people and all of the major civil rights leaders but a year later only a handful of people were there to console his mother. My takeaway from that is people are quick to forget but they can be memorialized in small ways. So, I decided on a Sunday morning that I was going to create a platter with George Floyds name

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Pictured below with Pastor Knotts are his son Jalen, wife Byrdzetta, and daughter Destiny

“My goal was to set out to have the best crab leg boil in the Piedmont Triad area. I really believe that nobody in this area has a better crab boil than Seafood Destiny. I am not in competition with anyone especially when God is seasoning the food!�

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Byrdzetta and Anthony Knotts are a great example of what teamwork can accomplish.

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but also in the back of my mind it has Angelo’s name there, too. I give a dollar from each platter we sell and set it aside to provide scholarships for African American men and women so they can go to school. I also name platters for people who have impacted my life like my Uncle Bo who was a big influence on me. I named my crab cakes after him. They’re called, Bo’s Crab Cakes because my uncle was an avid cook. He’s almost 90 years old now and living in a retirement home.

I can’t go in there to see him, but what I can do is take him and his friends platters of food that are his name sake. So, this gives me the opportunity to honor people like him.”

One of the things Pastor Knotts looks forward to is returning to his neighborhood, South Side Village in Lexington, North Carolina and giving back to that community. He concedes that God has always placed people in his life who believed in him much like his foster parents Billy and Katie Bird who took him in as a child. He recognizes that everything he endured from being a foster child to becoming homeless helps him remain humble and in pursuit of helping others find their better angels and of course introducing them to Christ through keeping a promise to his daughter, Destiny. According to Bible Gateway there are 8,810 promises in the Bible. Which one is yours? h

Seafood Destiny is on the go with the Seafood Destiny food truck. Catering services available also.

Call (336)337-9296 for more details.

Seafood Destiny 4705 W. Gate City Blvd - Greensboro, NC 27407 336-283-7291 order online @ www.seafooddestiny.com Hours of Operation Wednesday - Saturday (4:00pm till 9:00pm) Sundays (2:00pm till 9:00pm) 51

A Love For Real Estate

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By Dawn Cauthen Thornton Photos by B Smith Photography Aleta Danielle has always been interested in helping people. Encouraging others through tough decisions and supporting them in achieving their dreams is constantly on Danielle’s heart.

“I’ve had the opportunity to gain knowledge, skills and experience, from various positions which have assisted in my development as a Realtor,” says Danielle.

She worked in Corporate America for over 20 years in various roles and gained the experience from each of those positions and applied them in serving her clients. When she assisted customers in the past, she wasn’t sure what the end goal would be. She was only a small part of the process and oftentimes left unfulfilled. Choosing real estate has been one of the best decisions she’s made.

In upstate South Carolina the housing market is red hot.

The area has been booming within the last few years and Danielle is taking advantage of the opportunities. “With real estate, I’m involved beginning to end. That fulfillment is there because I’ve helped them attain a home,” Danielle explains.

In the Greenville/Spartanburg area, several Fortune 500 companies have relocated there due to the growth which has allowed homebuilders to increase their construction exponentially. With these large companies hiring, college students who have traveled here to attend one of the many colleges, stay and vie for those jobs upon graduation. Those same new grads will soon be in the market to purchase a new home and Danielle is ready to serve them.

The state of South Carolina also boasts 12 beaches. With this new pandemic that has confined families to their homes while working and schooling, living in a vacation home with warm sand at your feet has become a desire.

“As a Realtor, there are so many avenues to this position that I want to be able to accentuate about myself and the services I offer.”

Though it’s an interesting time, business is still flourishing. It’s certainly a seller’s market, as Agents have seen multiple offers on the same home and even homes selling within hours of going live. Neighborhoods are being built on every livable space one can think of which means the population is also increasing in record numbers.

Since venturing into a new arena she has learned that knowing how to manage yourself, having a solid plan, and pursuing your interests are the first things to consider. Most importantly, having strong faith has gotten her further than she could’ve ever imagined.

“Live your dreams, is my motto, because it’s never too late to do that.

But use wisdom when making decisions. Be ready to think out of the box and then get out there and make things happen.”

A quote that Danielle admires is “Just as the Caterpillar thought the world was ending, she became a Butterfly.” -Barbara Haines h

Aleta Danielle Realtor

When Danielle isn’t making dreams come true, she works from home as an Account Manager for UPS. The University of South Carolina Alum has a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration with a focus on Management and is taking steps to grow her brand using what she learned in college.

The ability to work from home as well as set her own hours is quite beneficial to this mother of two.

“My three year old daughter can feel that I’m home more now. She and my 14 year old son love that we get to spend so much time together,” says Danielle.

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Stay Networking And Grinding Zestfully

By Terry L. Watson - Photos by JLG Photography

LaRont’e Watson Ellerbee, aka Ja’Natis, is an achiever, a believer, an entrepreneur. His colorful personality compliments a style that exudes confidence, sophistication, and loyalty.

A native of Greensboro, NC LaRont’e is equipped with an equal share of street smarts and common sense. While he has overcome various challenges throughout his life, he has not allowed any of them to stand in the way of him living out his life’s purpose; to be better today than he was yesterday.

LaRont’e is a father, son, brother, and friend to many. He also engaged to his best friend and the love of his life. While there are many ways to describe LaRont’e, the most accurate would be to say that he is an ambitious overcomer. “No matter what people say or do, as long as I don’t give up on myself, I will always win. I’ve had a rough life. I grew up in the Claremont Homes community located on the north side of Greensboro NC. I later moved to Randolph Avenue, and then to Julian Street, near Martin Luther King Jr. Drive. Times were tough and due to the roller coaster of life, I built up internal frustrations from many disappointments. I had a lot of rage and anger deep down on the inside of me. I guess you could say that I suffered. I lost the woman who raised me, and then I lost my birth mother. Things didn’t appear to be getting any better for me. Yet, I still pushed on, and from there, I was able to make a life decision that worked out for me in the end, and things eventually turned out OK,” he says.

Today, LaRont’e is the owner and face of SNAGZ Apparel, a fashion apparel line that encourages others to strive for greatness, and to be consciously aware of their surroundings. SNAGZ is an acronym for (Stay Networking And Grinding Zestfully).

LaRont’e began his fashion line in 2013. Now his vast assortment of items include short sleeve shirts, long sleeve shirts, snapbacks, beanies, sweatshirts, hoodies, onesies, and Covid 19 appropriate face masks.

“I decided to start a clothing line because growing up I didn’t have many clothes, or the nicest clothes, or even name brand clothes. When I was younger, I told myself that I wanted to get rich and start my own clothing line and give other people more options of how to express themselves. My line is for those who couldn’t wear a certain thing even though they like it. They can wear what I have, and don’t have to worry about being judged,” he says. “I love that it’s different, it can stand out and it’s not targeting any one type of customer in particular. It’s designed for anybody, from infants to the elderly. SNAGZ is a ‘Brand For Any Lifestyle’” he says.

www.snagzapparelbrand.bigcartel.com 336-549-4553 54

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In the future, LaRont’e plans to continue to design new items to add to his growing inventory. He also hopes to partner with others for the sole purpose of allowing the SNAGZ Apparel line help to make his community more colorful and expressive. Contact him to learn more about what is on the horizon for SNAGZ Apparel. h

Dallas/Fort Worth - Sept./Oct. 2020

Morry Lee Johnson

MAGAZINE

Cutest Baby

The son of Torri Johnson & James Oldham

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

Dallas/Fort Worth - Sept./Oct. 2020

HuamiMagazine.com

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