Huami Magazine Triad March 2016

TRIAD

March/April 2016 Volume 4 Issue 7 FREE

Shayla

Hilton Douglas

Willett

Dr. James A. Johnson Cedar Grove Tabernacle Of Praise

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10% Discount Offered To Senior Citizens Triad - March - 2016

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Yesterday, Today AndOrTomorrow There Are No If, Ands, Buts About It! A Letter From The Editor A Letter from the Editor

Terry L. Watson

Every now and then, we may find ourselves occupied with all the things that life can give. Many people only try to do the very least as What if tomorrow didn’t arrive?

All of your plans, hopes possible to get by, while others strive to accomplish everything before the sun goes down.wouldn’t I am onehave of those people who wishes thatifthere and dreams a street to park on. What was 25everything hours in the day,you anddecided eight days in the If this werenever so, that to put offweek. until tomorrow maybehappened?

I wouldn’t feel likewould I left something on the table for at the end of the There be no reason to save a rainy day. day, and you could spare someone the trouble of making

promises. What if your last opportunity seemingly expired

While planning forwould tomorrow, sometimes it feels like I missed some today?

What you do? things that happened on yesterday. I acknowledge that I can’t do anything about yesterday, and tomorrow isn’t promised. What matters I’ve been told that I often seem like I do too much. most is what I am doing in the present. It makes perfectly good sense, Honestly, I feel like I am not doing enough and I’m a firm however I have learned to never fully forget about what happened on believer in knowing that God wouldn’t put anything on me yesterday. I say this because I believe what happens in my before will I couldn’t handle.

I sometimes play a that role in my present day and future. wonder how life would

be if I chose to sit idle and accept what it presented to me. I foundI may thathave to bestumbled very boring.

In my opinion, opportunity On have yesterday, and lost a few friends.

I may have is a blessing that isn’t afforded to everyone.

A challenge taken those burdens home and allowed them to keep me awake all me is an adventure.

Whatinismy themind worst that can times happen? night. to I may have played yesterday a thousand but If I do nothing, I fail, and if I try I don’t, but instead learn still I came up empty-handed while searching for solutions on how to something new about myself.

Relinquish your pride and and in fix yesterday’s problems . By God’s grace, I was able to fall asleep acquire life.a fresh start and new plan. By using common awakereturn the next day with sense I should be able to navigate throughout the new day and gain in my areas loss.advice I believe life’s happen when on a day-to-day Theof best everthat given tolessons me happened someone basis — yesterday, today, and tomorrow. told me to make my tomorrow happen today. In doing so

I have pressed my way through doors with a key that only

Today, should decide toalso steplearned away from things that don’t hopewe provided.

I have the the difference between matter.

Shake lose the people who awoke with a cunning desire to stall what God blesses me with and what life can burden me with your today and hinder your tomorrow.

How our day ends doesn’t have as well. I compare it to knowing when to be confident and to be our tomorrow. when to be quiet, because

someone get itthis confused Are You Saved? Ifmay not repeat prayer. with being arrogant.

Dear Heavenly Father,

I believe that Jesus died for me. I believe that Jesus Make you tomorrow paid for my sins on the cross. I believe that Jesus happen most rose from the dead. today, I ask you but to forgive me of my sins. I askimportantly you to wash memake clean ofitallcount. sin.

Lifeand is but I put my faith trustainwhisper Jesus as myand only hope for we must put ourselves in a living eternally with you in heaven.

www.huamimagazine.com Editor In Chief

Terry L. Watson Alana Allen - Deputy Editor Writers

Tonya Dixon Terry L. Watson Alana Allen Jeuron Dove Photographers

Perfect Lenz Photography Shaw Photography Group Still Shots Photography Who Shotya Photography Howard Gaither Photography Layout

Mykel Media Company Linda Bennett

mykelmedia@yahoo.com (336) 340-7844 HUAMI MAGAZINE is published 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 terry.editor@yahoo.com or to Mykel Media Company, LLC P.O. Box 20102 Greensboro, NC 27420 HUAMI MAGAZINE 2016 All Rights Reserved 2014 All Rights Reserved

position to hear what it is

I ask Jesus to be my Savior and my Lord. I want to telling us. live my life for Christ.

I understand that my salvation is not based on my works but on the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross.

Terry L. Watson Editor/Founder

Thank you for saving me!

Amen!

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November/December 2014

On The Cover

Photo by Shaw Photography Group Want to advertise, Call 336-340-7844

Want To Advertise? Call (336)340-7844

CONTENTS

Attorney Candace Morton

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March/April

Cutest Baby Contest

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Shayla Hilton

2016

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Also Inside..........................

What’s Happening In The Triad

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There’s Only One Way To Go

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Outside Of The Box Thinking

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Checking In With Children

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The Perfect Brow

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Getting Ready For Fashion 2016

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Need A Wedding Photographer?

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Have You Seen Tyarra Williams Beyond Measure Demetra Moore Reketta Wright

Bovanti Cosmetics & Spa Subira Boutique

Dr. William Johnson of Cedar Grove

Pastor Michael Thomas

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One Vision Studios

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Douglas Willett

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Leadership For Our Youth

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IN THE TRIAD

Have You Seen Me? DOB: June 18, 1996 Missing: January 07, 2016 Age: 19 Race: Black Hair: Brown Eyes: Brown Height: 5’5” Weight: 120 lbs Missing From: Greensboro, NC

Tyarra Cacique Williams Last seen 01/07/2016 in the Stoney Brook Apartments/ Webster Road area wearing a black North Face jacket, pink shirt, dark blue Levi’s and a blue knit cap.

Anyone with info about her dissapperance should contact the Greensboro Police Departmet: 336-373-2222 Darryl’s Bail Bonding: 336-987-0333 ($1000 Reward) Or Call Crime Stoppers @ 336-373-1000

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Achieving Goals And Dreams Through Purpose & Prosperity

There’s No Other Way, Except the Beyond Measure Way When God is in the midst of greatness, all things are possible, especially for Beyond Measure Barbering Institute and Beyond Measure Ministries that has set out to make a difference in the community. Led by business partners, Shannon Long and Curtis Bass, these two have created a platform that offers free services that cater to the homeless, single mothers, youth and the elderly.

Shannon Long is the pastor of Beyond Measure Ministries based in Haw River, N.C., and CEO of Beyond Measure Barbering Institute located in Mebane, N.C. While Curtis Bass is the outreach pastor of the church and chief financial officer of the barbering institute. The two came together to reach out to their surrounding communities and pour into the lives of individuals that are in need of spiritual, physical, financial and emotional support. Their approach is not to handicap individuals but to provide them with the tools needed to get their lives headed in a positive direction. They believe in showing people the love of Christ at all times by encouraging and supporting them.

Before starting the barbering institute in March 2010, Pastor Long was a student resource officer in Orange County and he also owned a barbershop.

Through his experience, he realized high school students in the area did not have the means to go to barbering school or college. So he wanted to create an environment where students could come in to get hands on training and affordable education. He teamed up with Curtis Bass to start this new venture and through great faith and perseverance; they eventually birthed Beyond Measure Ministries in March 2012.

Beyond Measure Barbering Institute gives back abundantly to their community by feeding homeless shelters four times a year that consist of men, women and children. They also offer free haircuts, provide clothing and hygiene products to the shelters and they adopt children for Christmas. The barber school also provides transportation to pick up homeless men to receive free haircuts. In addition, the school offers free hair care services to group homes, adult care centers and the Burlington Boys and Girls Club.

Beyond Measure Ministries has a food and clothing pantry that supplies necessities to the community. Once a month, the church feeds a local housing development in Alamance and Orange Counties that mostly consist of single moms and the elderly. They collaborate yearly with the “Feed the People Ministry� at the Mebane Arts Center that feeds 500 to 800 people for Christmas. In addition, they offer free laundry mat drives, annual back to school drives and community cookouts. Through the C.H.A.N.G.E. (Choose Having A New Growth Experience) Program, a mentoring program implemented in local elementary and middle schools, they offer free services and discounts for at-risk youth for their summer camps and after-school programs. h

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James Davis

Realtor/Broker Keller Williams Realty North 336 681-8653 james.davis@kw.com www.jamesdavisreal.com

For more information about Beyond Measure Barbering Institute go to www.BeyondMeasureBarbering.com or Beyond Measure Ministries go to www.BeyondMeasureChurch.org Triad - March - 2016

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Dr. James A. Johnson Cedar Grove Tabernacle Of Praise

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A Lifetime Of Service

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By Tonya Dixon - Photos by Howard Gaither or the past 28 years, Dr. James A. Johnson has been the senior pastor of Cedar Grove Tabernacle of Praise in Greensboro, N.C. His tenure at the church included many firsts, a few challenges and even some heartache, but the bountiful blessings of God have certainly outweighed it all.

Under his leadership the church has grown physically and spiritually. Many things, people and situations came and went, but Dr. Johnson has always remained steadfastly committed to the Lord; never wavering or changing his position of faith.

Clearly hearing and yielding to the dictate and voice of God, this year he is determined to transition into his next assignment. Effective April 17, he will preach his final sermon as pastor of Cedar Grove Tabernacle of Praise.

The church will honor and celebrate Dr. Johnson and his wife of 53 years, Helen; and daughters Wanda Johnson Mitchell and Rhonda Johnson Minter and even his granddaughter, Courtney Helen Mitchell for their sincere dedication and service to the ministry with a grand banquet and gala at the Sheraton Greensboro at Four Seasons on April 16. Although the celebration is somewhat bittersweet and Cedar Grove will indeed miss Dr. Johnson, the legacy that he leaves behind includes a ministry spiritually equipped and prepared to fervently move forward in God. Dr. Johnson says the hallmark of his success is bringing the people that he has lovingly served to the revelation, knowledge and acceptance of his appointed successor.

Nevertheless, his legacy and ministry began years before he even knew of Cedar Grove. From an early age, the Louisburg, N.C. native was aware he had a special calling upon his life. He may not have been able to fully articulate what he just simply “knew,” but he definitely “knew” it was God who compelled him to receive salvation on Tuesday after the second Sunday in August, 1950 and got baptized on the second Sunday in September of the same year.

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Continued from previous page Many years have passed since then, but Dr. Johnson remembers it just like it was yesterday. It was something he says he will never forget. Sixty-six years later it is evident that young James knew what he was talking about. The call of God was certainly upon his life.

“I remember when I was a young boy I used to preach to my sisters. In order for me to play student with them, they had to sit and listen to me preach,” Dr. Johnson said.

Preaching to his sisters proved to be a prophetic precursor to what God had in store for him. In 1980, the call manifested itself and Johnson preached his first sermon at St. James Baptist Church. Eight years later Johnson went from preaching to pastoring. In 1989, he was formally installed as the pastor of Cedar Grove Baptist Church.

Dr. Johnson said he made a point not to make too many changes, but one thing he did implement was a church slogan that has stood the test of time and became an unofficial anthem for the ministry: “Jesus is Lord. Expect a Miracle.” It wasn’t just something that he and the church members just said; rather they believed it too.

Seemingly so insignificant, the slogan speaks volumes particularly to the mindset of Johnson and the atmosphere of Cedar Grove. He says there was a spiritual connection and impartation to speaking it out loud.

It announced the deity of God and proclaimed with assurance that God would indeed show Himself.

Pictured above is young Pastor Johnson

“I can humbly say that I walk in the gift of healing. “I used to have migraine headaches and the Lord gave me the gift of speaking to them and telling them to leave.

The only people that don’t get healed are the people that don’t come up for healing”.

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Dr. Johnson said when the church really caught on and began speaking the words to the mantra, “We began seeing healings and people being saved all the time.” With all glory given unto God, Johnson walks in a gift of healing with specific attention given to issues of migraines and asthma.

“I can humbly say that I walk in the gift of healing,” he said.

“I used to have migraine headaches and the Lord gave me the gift of speaking to them and telling them to leave. The only people that don’t get healed are the people that don’t come up for healing. I also have the gift to speak to asthma and back aches.” Some have even been healed over the phone during the ministry’s Tuesday call-in Bible study in which people from all over the state and country are able to dial-in and be taught the word of God. Undoubtedly, the gifts and callings that Johnson has been graciously given by God haven’t come without some level of discomfort or heartache, but any challenges he has faced are insignificant in comparison to the level of God’s blessings. Dr. Johnson says there have always been challenges and frustrations,

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First Lady Helen and Dr. Johnson celebrate 53 years of marriage

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Continued from page 10 particularly as a pastor but he says, “just when you feel the weight is too heavy the Lord will come in and do something that can and will delete it all. Seeing people saved and delivered is refreshing and makes you feel like you can keep going.”

Ministry has always been about one thing for Dr. Johnson and that is to teach the word. Dissecting and expounding upon scriptures has always been his passion, which is why he challenges people to bring their Bibles with them to church and read the word of God for themselves and get a true understanding of what they read.

“I believe the church is a learning institution. If a person is not learning then they are not growing and if they are not growing then they are standing still in their Christian walk and if they are standing still, they have the promise of eternal life and salvation, but they miss out on how to live on earth,” Dr. Johnson said.

“I believe the church is a learning institution. If a person is not learning then they are not growing and if they are not growing then they are standing still in their Christian walk and if they are standing still, they have the promise of eternal life and salvation, but they miss out on how to live on earth”.

“I believe we need to learn to live on earth. Jesus said he came that we might have life and life more abundantly and I think that we should have that life. The way we live here on earth is a testimony for others to be able to see and say that there is something about you that they like. Your life should be a witness.”

And for Dr. Johnson, being a witness includes the business office as well as the church. He wholeheartedly believes Christians should be entrepreneurs and show the world that God has foot soldiers in area sector of society. In fact, he has owned several businesses himself, including a bookstore and a choir, a clergy store and a Men and Women’s Fashion website (Specialbuysandsales.com).

In addition, Dr. Johnson believes in using whatever tools are available to witness. Although, he started in ministry quite some time ago, he will be the first to advocate for the use of new technologies in order to share the Gospel with the world. An avid and active user of Facebook and Twitter, he can be found sharing scriptures and offering encouraging words of wisdom.

Over the years, Dr. Johnson has certainly acquired wisdom that only God and time can produce. His first order of business after relinquishing his pastoral duties will be to write the book that has been on his heart for years. With years and years of sermons and teachings, dating as far back as 1996, on everything from faith to salvation to grace, he says he has more than enough material and he certainly has a great deal more to say. h

Pictured (from left to right) are First Lady Helen, Dr. Johnson, granddaughter Courtney and daughter Wanda

Retirement Gala tickets can be purchased on location at Cedar Grove Tabernacle of Praise 612 Norwalk Street Greensboro, N.C. 27407 336-294-2628 www.cedargrovetop.org Triad - March - 2016

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God

Given Words

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By Tonya Dixon - Photos by Shaw Photography Group

hayla Hilton has always been the type of person to be genuinely happy for others’ successes, but there came a point when she began to question, “When will it be my time?”

It wasn’t as though she wasn’t successful in her own right.

A professional educator for the last nine years, Hilton had master’s degrees in elementary education and school administration. She taught in the classroom for five years before she transitioned to becoming a curriculum coordinator, working with teachers; and she’s even licensed to be a principal. Nevertheless, she recognized there was something else that was plaguing her heart.

She simply wasn’t content.

Following a break-up in a long-time relationship, Hilton began struggling with certain aspects of her life; things that were beginning to become hindrances in her life. “I struggled and asked God, ‘when am I going to get married. When will it be my time? When will all these things that I’ve planned for myself happen?’” she questioned.

Through sincere prayer and even somewhat questioning the direction of her life, Hilton says God revealed to her that there were certain things in her life that were becoming road blocks to her happiness – namely, contentment and specifically the fact that she basically didn’t have any.

God began to show Hilton that she wasn’t content because she fell short in so many other areas of her life that ultimately produce contentment.

Doubt, distrust, fear, jealousy, a hardened heart, patience and lack of peace reigned in her life. It wasn’t until she realized the issues that she was able to deal with them, through the grace of God. “I saw all of these in my life, particularly through my broken relationship,” she said. Not only did God show her the areas where she needed to grow, but she said that He showed her that those very same, detrimental characteristics are the things that are stopping most people from living their lives in satisfaction because they’re worried about the things that are out of their control.

It wasn’t long before Hilton was given the mandate to utilize the very things that were at one point her stumbling block as a resource to help others. In December 2015, she published “Chasing Contentment: Freely Living Life Through any Circumstance”. The book is divided into 10 chapters; eight of them deal directly with those issues she struggled with and she believes other struggle with as well.

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Listen & Believe “We all have challenges that get in the way and keep us from living the lives we want to live. We must find the core of what we need to live content lives in Jesus Christ,” she said.

It took some time, admitting she allowed procrastination to side track her progress too long, but simply sitting down and literally writing the book through her own experiences was cathartic as well as spiritually healing. All the while God was inspiring her to write, he was also leading her to specific scriptures that combat and align with the debilitating and staggering issues that hinder so many people from progressing in their lives.

Written in a conversational tone, “Chasing Contentment” takes the reader through Hilton’s personal journey of overcoming the things that were holding her back, while inviting them to utilize the intertwined scriptures and take self-examination of themselves.

Although Hilton, now understands that a part of her purpose is to use writing as a specific tool to minister to people, it was never something that she aspired to do.

“I wasn’t interested in writing books at all, but the more I prayed and tried to figure out my purpose on earth, God revealed to me that I’m supposed to be a writer,” she said. “I was thinking my next step would be to find a job as a principal and move into that seamlessly, but it hasn’t worked out that way; so I’m actually living my book. I have to be content, realizing it’s just not time for me to have that position at this time. I have to wait on God and see the direction he’s leading me in.”

Undoubtedly, she says (the wait) has been frustrating, but more importantly it has taught her yet another lesson. “I discovered that you might be content in one area, but not in another area. So I think it’s a process,” Hilton said. “We have to continually move toward contentment and keep striving for it because things happen and life shifts; situations shift and things don’t always work out they way we think they should. So we just have to sit and wait on God, knowing that He has a plan.”

While she is waiting, Hilton isn’t just sitting back twiddling her fingers. She’s putting her own advice into action and is working on her second book, “Peace Promises.” The idea for her sophomore book came from a chapter in “Chasing Contentment” called “Peace not Pieces.” “Peace Promises” focuses on all promises of peace that God has given unto those who serve him.

While the second book is not quite ready for publication, Hilton is certainly spreading the word and using every opportunity possible to not only spread the word about her first book, which she now offers an accompanying workbook, but she’s more excited and determined to encourage and help people live out their purpose.

“My passion has always been for children and to see them be successful, but I think my passion has expanded and now I really want people to know who they are and to be fully functioning in that,” she said. “I think a lot of people spend time stuck in something they don’t want to be in; stuck in jobs and relationships. I want people to know who they are and know who God created them to be; figure that out quickly and then run with it.” h

www.shaylahilton.com hishavenofhope.blogspot.com

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Brittany McClanton OWNER/OPERATOR OF SUBIRA BOUTIQUE

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rittany McClanton of Greensboro describes herself as a young entrepreneur who transformed her addiction of clothing and accessories into a business.

Her company Subira Boutique allows her to share her taste of fashion cravings with other fashion addicts that love to be unique while being affordable.

Subira Boutique is an online boutique for women of all ages that was established in 2014.

“Subira Boutique is not just a boutique, it’s a brand. Subira translates into ‘patience’ in Swahili,” said McClanton. “We have a patient style that is not defined by trends, but instead expands a woman’s level of sophistication.”

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Subira Boutique where classy meets fabulous

McClanton offers women’s clothing and accessories that one may not be able to find at their local mall. Their collection consist of necklaces, bracelets, handbags, and so much more. Accessories are not the only things they provide; they are committed to offering excellence customer service in person and online. The company also provides the convenience of bringing its boutique to local events for onsite shopping, while offering the capability of shopping online.

As well as an added service for personal styling for women who are searching to complete that perfect outfit for that special occasion.

Subira Boutique is constantly making changes to their inventory to please their growing list of customers. It thrives to incorporate different varieties of accessories and clothing to make the shopping experience more personable by providing unique pieces that shoppers cannot find in their local retail stores.

McClanton started Subira Boutique online after graduating from college with plans to do a little more with her passion by becoming a business owner. Juggling work and being a mother, it created more of a desire for her to become her own boss to provide more and give more by starting with a website. Although selling online

was reaching monthly goals, she wanted to give her customers just a little more by allowing them to have the experience of buying her items onsite.

“I am determined to build my brand; not just for the money but to inspire young girls like me to go after their dreams no matter what the tribulations they may face going after their goals and accomplishing them,” said McClanton. “I always wanted to become my own boss and make my own schedule. Yes, working for corporate is fine because the money is there but I don’t want to work for someone to build their empire, I want to build my own.”

In the future, McClanton plans to open a small store front for her customers to shop. She also plans to continue attending local events such as festivals and trade shows with her assistant, Briquel Jackson, to generate buzz about the company.

Facebook: www.facebook.com/ subiraboutique Instagram: www.instagram.com/ subiraboutique Twitter: www.twitter.com/ subiraboutique Fur Embellished Handbag $40

Floral Crystal Gemstone Thread Statement Necklace $25

Oval Round Shades $8

For more information about Subira Boutique new arrivals, latest updates and news, please visit http:// www.subiraboutique.com/ or call 336.944.4579. h Black Snakeskin Roll Up Clutch $25

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By Terry L. Watson - Photos by Mykel Media Company ouglas Willett is a man of God, husband, father, mentor, singer, songwriter and musician who is optimistic about life.

He describes his life and latest musical project as a journey. At the young age of two, he was separated from him eight siblings and placed in the foster care of the Brasher family in Providence, Ky. As a child, he struggled with stuttering.

He also had a short temper and would fight anyone at any given moment. His battles often were carried out with his brother who was also raised in the same foster home that was overcrowded with several other children.

Growing up as a foster child was not something that came easy for Willett. When he first saw the movie, “The Antwone Fisher Story,” he says it hit him like a ton of bricks. “I cried like a baby in the theatre and couldn’t stop, so I left. I had to go back the next day to finish watching it,” he says. As a child, he faced similar challenges that he would later learn to overcome. “I remember always going into my room and closing the door. While I was there, I would grit my teeth and just think to myself — ‘why do I stutter and

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why am I in foster care?” That’s something he has never shared but hopes that his candidness reaches others who may be going through what he experienced.

Not really understanding what was going on with his life, Willett began to seek outlets to release his emotions. The church offered him a place to do so.

“We had to sit on the front row at church every Sunday morning, but for some odd reason I didn’t mind. My mother sang in the choir faithfully. I could hear her voice over everyone else, I can still hear it today,” he says.

His mother’s affiliation with the church choir had an impact on him. At the age of 15, he says he was forced to join the a cappella choir. He would soon lead his first song, “Because He Lives” which is still his favorite hymn. It was during that performance that Willett realized he had embarked on another form of communication that diverted his stuttering. He also realized his gift for singing and leading songs. “There is a gift between singing and leading songs” he says.

As he got older he says he noticed music was sticking with him. It pulled him into places that were out of his comfort zone. His temper calmed down and the stuttering wasn’t as noticeable.

While in high school his foster mother, Mary Brasher passed away. Along with his brother Robert, Willett says they didn’t know what was going to happen next.

There were questions of where he would be placed; in the home of another foster parent or at his biological mother’s home. The system had him and his sisters scattered everywhere. To God be the glory, they stayed at the same house and his older foster brother, Lyron “Buddy” Brasher became their legal guardian.

Willett says his heart softened when his foster mother passed. She had a lasting impression on him which caused him to do a complete turnaround. His behavior improved. He was superintendent at Sunday school, directed choirs and taught parts.

Today, Willett regards himself as an accomplished musical artist and he believes none of this would be possible without the support of his wife, Sheila and daughter, June aka “Baby J.” His latest musical project titled, “My Journey” is a compilation of songs that tells the story of his life. He writes and sings about life’s experiences and about how he perceives life and also what he feels. He is the first regional/local indie artist to have their project featured at Barnes & Noble, and to also perform there. He will perform live and conduct a CD signing session there in the month of March. h

Pictured with Douglas is musical producer Jayson Martin

Foster Child Productions Douglas Willett willettdouglas@gmail.com 336-255-6803 To download or purchase ”My Journey” Visit iTunes - Amazon Music - Google Play Spotify Search: Douglas Willett Triad - March - 2016

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Michael Thomas Love and Faith Christian Fellowship Celebrates Years of Ministry

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By Tonya Dixon Photos by Love and Faith Christian Fellowship

t’s not an easy feat to run a church; especially one with more than a thousand members. The fact of the matter is that people come and people go; there are good times, as well as bad, but no matter the situation or circumstance a church purposed by God will stand.

Love and Faith Christian Fellowship located in Greensboro, N.C. has done just that; it has stood the tests (and there have been many) of time. Over the years, the physical aspects of the church have changed, but the ministry has always boldly stood on one main principle, and that is the Word of God. Senior Pastor, Michael Thomas says it’s the one thing that has singularly sustained Love and Faith. “I have been committed for 25 years to preach the Gospel and I think part of the success of our church, and when I say success that means that God is pleased with you, is because I have never strayed away from the Gospel. I have always preached the Gospel of Jesus Christ,” he said.

This year the ministry is celebrating 25 years of spreading the Gospel, by not only serving God, but also serving the community.

Twenty five years is certainly an amazing accomplishment, but what may be even more amazing is the significant and notable growth the church has experienced, to which Thomas says can only be attributed to the power and faithfulness of God. In 1991, the Mt. Gilead, N.C. native had no idea when he and his family set out to start a church, he would one day be entrusted with the spiritual guidance of so many people. Not only was God faithful, but Thomas was as well. He has taught and preached the Word of God with the same fervor and tenacity whether there were 200 people or 20 people in the congregation. Indeed, God has honored him for it.

“What makes our church unique is that we have grown mostly from people coming in and getting saved. People have heard the Gospel, responded to it and their lives have changed in a way that friends and family and even some enemies have seen a dramatic change”.

Pastor Michael Thomas

“We started very small. It was just my wife, my daughter and me. I think we have grown with the church. We didn’t set out to be a big church,” said Thomas. “I knew we would have to love God and love people. I knew people would come with baggage, but I also knew the power of the Gospel. What makes our church unique is that we have grown mostly from people coming in and getting saved. People have heard the Gospel, responded to it and their lives have changed in a way that friends and family and even some enemies have seen a dramatic change.”

The growth has been so exponential that the church even expanded into a second location in Kernersville, N.C. However, the church didn’t grow by happenstance or coincidence. They prepared for growth. While the church as whole, prayed for it, they also began to plan and anticipate the growth they wanted.

Thomas says he realized that in order for the church to grow, the people had to grow as well.

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“I want to see people grow and I want to see people mature in Christ. It’s all a part of discipleship – bringing people from spiritual infancy to spiritual maturity. At 17 years old, I saw how my life was changed when I heard the Gospel. The Bible says that all of heaven rejoices when a sinner repents, so I’m endeavoring to make heaven happy every week”.

Pastor Michael Thomas

Love and Faith Christian Fellowship Two Locations - One Church

4344 Blackberry Road Greensboro, NC 27406 (336) 632-0205 556-A Arbor Hill Road Kernersville, NC 27284 (336) 993-8063 lvnfaith@loveandfaith.org www.loveandfaith.org

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Continued from page 23 He truly believes in developing leaders instead of followers.

Moreover, he says a healthy and strong church is constantly reproducing leaders. With over 90 ministries and well over 500 leaders, it’s a direct result of strong Biblical teaching, endeavoring to mature and grow people in Christ.

“I want to see people grow and I want to see people mature in Christ. It’s all a part of discipleship – bringing people from spiritual infancy to spiritual maturity,” he said. “I love seeing people saved. At 17 years old, I saw how my life was changed when I heard the Gospel. The Bible says that all of heaven rejoices when a sinner repents, so I’m endeavoring to make heaven happy every week.”

In a time when churches have often seen lack, Love and Faith has seen abundant blessings, but Thomas says it’s not because of anything he or any other leader has done, rather it is because the church gives back in a mighty way. Love and Faith is dedicated to missions. When the ministry first began, it was dedicated to sending $20 each month to assist a group in Israel, at the time it was all the church could afford. However, that little, consistent, monthly seed opened remarkable doors and paved the way for the church to truly be the hands, legs and feet of God and spread the Gospel to the uttermost parts of the world.

Over the years, Love and Faith has been able to build hospitals, orphanages and offer support in various ways, across the world, including Tanzania, China, Malaysia, India, Israel and countless other areas. Not only do they build, but they teach and people are receiving salvation and the love of God like never before. “I believe one of the reasons why God has blessed us these 25 years is because we have always been mission minded. We sometimes think God is an American. God is not an American,” Thomas said. “I believe if you really take care of God’s business, then He will take care of your business. He does not need us to manipulate anything for finances.” Nevertheless, Thomas says that the mission field is not relegated to a country thousands of miles away. Love and Faith is just as dedicated to supporting and serving within its own community as it is foreign countries.

Recently returned from a mission trip to Ghana, Thomas has been working on a book dealing with nine spiritual principles.

Not only has he been teaching it as a series in the church, but he also teaches it and other leadership topics to pastors through the Good Shepherd’s Fellowship International, an extension of the church solely for the purpose of developing and mentoring pastors after God’s heart.

In celebration of 25 years of spreading the Gospel, a special banquet has been planned to be held at the Koury Convention Center. The occasion is certainly momentous and noteworthy, but Thomas chalks it up to simply being another reason to glorify God for one more year of provision and expansion. Love and Faith is “One Church in two Locations” but as God continues to reward the ministry and pastor’s faithfulness, the tagline will surely need revising. Indeed, the Gospel will be expanded and more lives will be changed through the ministry “where Jesus Christ is Lord and the people are loved.” h

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Outside The Box Thinking

Demetra Moore

3. Be A Little Illogical: It is a peculiarly Western trait to want to tie things up in neat bundles. We prefer solutions to problems, and answers to questions.

To be creative, you need to be comfortable with things that don’t fit.

This type of behavior allows you to life out of your typical pattern.

4. Laugh More: Tom Peters says that the creativity of a workplace can be measured by a laugh meter, i.e. how much it laughs. Humor is one of the greatest creative devices. It jolts us out of our normal patterns and puts ideas together that shouldn’t go together. It has been found that after listening to comedy tapes, students’ ability to solve problems rises by 60%.

Most have been frustrated at some point about not having what is deemed a great idea. Then we ask ourselves, “Why didn’t I think of that?” When we are engrossed in daily routines the ability to tap into our creativity is dormant. The longer we have the issue the more frustrated we are. There are steps that can instantly activate natural creativity and the endless flow of possibilities.

You must first: 1. Think Like A Child: As adults we tend to think in a conditioned way aimed at showing how clever we are. Yet, as children, we’re simply spontaneous and far more creative in our thinking. To re-capture your childhood curiosity, allow yourself to just wonder things, to be completely present in the here and now, and to detach yourself from what you thought was real.

2. Make New Connections: To be innovative doesn’t require a university degree; it simply requires making a connection between existing ideas. For instance, did you know that ice cream was invented in 2000 BC yet it took another 3900 years for someone to come up with the idea of a cone? It’s when you take two seemingly unrelated items and use the spark of creativity that genius happens.

5. Think Outside Your Limits: Many of the products we take for granted today are the result of people thinking outside their limits. John Lynn recalls attending a computer conference in the 1980’s at a hotel when someone joked that the next thing they’d be thinking of would be computerized doors. When he went back to the same hotel 20 years later, all the doors used computer-programmed key cards.

6. Adopt and Adapt: To be creative doesn’t require blue-sky thinking. You can still be creative by adapting what works elsewhere. An American airline that wanted quicker turnarounds on their flights adopted the techniques of Formula One pit crews. Another source of ideas is nature. Georges de Mestral adapted the way certain seeds stick to clothing and invented Velcro.

7. Remember Your Dreams: Dreaming and day-dreaming can create a rich seam of ideas, because that’s when we relax and let the subconscious mind work by itself. The Roffey Park Management Institute calls this “washingup creativity” because most flashes of inspiration come when we are walking the dog, sitting Archimedes-like in the bath, or doing the laundry. Apply these 7 creative thinking techniques and make them part of your daily rituals. I guarantee that new solutions to your problems will open up to you with ease and speed. Join our group sessions or weekly calls to for assistance with gaining confidence and clarity. h For more information email info@mooreoutoflife.com or text “More” to 980-201-2458 and a member of our team will contact you.

CHECKING inwith Children

By Reketta Wright

It is very easy in our busy lives to overlook the emotional needs of our children. Parents sometimes assume that what they are delivering as a parent is enough for the child. It is always good to sit down with your children and ask them if things are okay.

L

ife becomes busy managing schedules of your own and the children at times, they can feel neglected.

It can be very difficult to make sure that everyone in the family gets the emotional attention desired and spend time with everyone equally.

A child’s mental and emotional health is just as important as their physical health.

Healthy mental and emotional health enables children to think clearly, develop socially, and learn new skills. Unconditional love, sense of security, acceptance, friendship, fun, encouragement, and discipline all work together to develop children’s self-confidence, a high self-esteem, and a healthy emotional outlook on life. Without these basic needs, children may suffer from poor performance in school, excessive worry or anxiety, withdrawal from social and educational opportunities, nightmares, uncontrollable tempers or aggression, sadness, and even depression.

Children need to understand that their parent’s love does not depend on their accomplishments. They should know that mistakes happen and are a part of

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life; they should be expected and accepted.

A child’s confidence can grow and become healthy in homes that provide unconditional love and affection. There are many things you can do to help nurture your child’s selfconfidence: •

Praise, encourage, and assure. Help them learn to do their best and to enjoy it.

•

Help them set realistic goals they can accomplish.

•

Be honest about your own life. It is important to know that everyone makes mistakes. h

Reketta Wright is a licensed therapist in private practice in Greensboro, NC. Reketta works with teens and adolescents experiencing as depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem.

She is currently accepting new clients.

Call today for a free consultation at 336.542.2884 or contact Reketta via email at reketta@rekettacwright.com For hope and inspiration follow Reketta on Instagram@rekettacwright Facebook@RekettaWrightLPC

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Beauty Star Tips Want the Perfect Brows?.... Get the Perfect Brow Kit! We’re giving you the go-to guide on how you can get the Perfect Brow

Beauty Experts, Marquel and Marquis Bohannon

Bovanti Cosmetics & Spa 219 Four Seasons Town Center Greensboro, NC 27407 Facebook.com/bovanticosmetics Twitter: @bovanti Instagram: @bovanti Phone: 336-299-0109 bovanti.com

Bovanti 6th Year Anniversary

Groomed

Having a well-groomed brow isn’t just a style, but a modern-day classic.

Tame well-executed brows are the new black! To help brow hairs fall in place brush them in the direction of the hair growth and use the spoolie side of the Bovanti Dual Angle Brow Groomer. Use the Brow Powder to fill in with short and quick strokes with the angle side of the Bovanti Dual Angle Brow Groomer.

Purchase the Bovanti Perfect Brow Kit for $65 Includes: Bovanti Brow Powder Bovanti Camouflage Concealer Bovanti Dual Angle Brow Groomer Bovanti Chisel Shader Brush

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Want to advertise, Call 336-340-7844

Color Choose eyebrow-grooming products that match your eyebrow hair. Never go darker than your hair color. If your eyebrows are dark brown or soft black use the Bovanti Dark Brown Brow Powder. Dark blonde or honey blonde use Bovanti Light Brown Brow Powder, and for our redheads, try the Bovanti Auburn Brow Powder! These are just a few of the colors that will give your brows a natural, polished look.

Precision Start by filling brows with Bovanti Brow Powder in your respective color. Then use the Bovanti Camouflage Concealer to shape the brow. Using a shade that matches your skin color; apply a thin layer underneath the brow to create definition with the Bovanti Chisel Shader Brush. Blend the Bovanti Camouflage Concealer down the brow bone to create a smoother application.

This is the time to show your Brows what you’re made of‌. Make them Perfect!

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Cutest Baby huami

M A G A Z I N E

Titus Levon Kennedy The son of MacKenzie and Christopher Kennedy Photos by Mykel Media Company

To submit photographs into the Huami Magazine Cutest Baby Photo Contest, send a detailed email to mykelmedia@yahoo.com 32

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One Vision Studios is your one stop shop for all your entertainment needs. Our business specializes in videography, photography and music recording.

What makes One Vision Studios stand out from any other company is that we believe in quality over quantity. The primary goal of our staff is to ensure that every individual that we work with feels as if they are reaching their intended vision from their initial consultation with us.

Our location allows for those who are looking for the services we offer to not only work with us, but have access to other venues that they may need.

Niched inside the Dynacon Event Center, our clients also have access to a possible venue that is suitable for weddings, special events and so much more.

Our team strives to give each and every customer an “at home feeling� as we strive to build a lasting relationship. Anytime they are in need of any service that we provide, One Vision Studios is here, ready to serve them.

We are currently seeking opportunities that will allow us to help individuals capture their next big event such as a wedding, a graduation or a birthday party. One Vision Studios promises to deliver superior service to its customers that are complimented with high quality and detail.

With three professional photographers and professional videographer who are skilled in directing, our production abilities are versatile and dynamic. We are not limited to one geographical location, and we are open to meeting our clients beyond the state of North Carolina.

Contact One Vision Studios today and experience photography and video from an entirely new perspective. Together, we take your ideas and match them with our capabilities and make it one vision. h

One Vision Studios

2100 E. Wendover Avenue (inside the Dynacon Events Center) Greensboro, NC 27405 334-218-4143

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P.O. Box 14398 Greensboro, NC 27415 - 336-833-9319 email aamlacad@gmail.com online www.ammlacad.org

Inspiring African American Males To Fulfill Roles That Produce Leaders In Families And Communities

T

he African American Male Leadership Academy seeks to provide a program that may effectively serve African American Males. Effective mentoring, character development and leadership are relevant tools to contribute positive outcomes. We have organized this information around core principles relevant to the design and implementation of mentoring initiatives for African American Males.

Proven statistics have revealed that youth participating in mentor programs do better as the following results: they are less likely to affiliate themselves in gangs, they stay in school and attain high levels of education, morals are developed that create responsibility, accountability and durability, they are less likely to be involved in substance abuse as well as less likely to be involved in the delinquency and juvenile justice system.

The African American Male Leadership Academy is a nonprofit organization that aims to provide methods that would effectively serve African American Males. This entity is a weekend intervention that would inspire mentorship, character development, leadership as well as academic assistance and preparation for high school and college. This program offers a long-term mentorship program for students who have been characterized as “highly at risk�.

This program also offers a range of mentoring options, including one on one and group mentoring efforts. In addition, The African American Male Leadership Academy is a gender-specific initiative focusing on respecting oneself, ones family and ones community with a goal to prevent substance abuse, crime, gangs and school violence.

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The African American Male Leadership Academy ensures to all parents and candidates that mentoring makes sense. It is a strength based approach that directs African American Males in the direction of a positive future. It is critical that The African American Male Leadership Academy would create ways to make programs available on a larger scale.

The African American Male Leadership Academy is built upon perspectives that were demonstrated by honorable men who left a strong legacy of integrity, perseverance and self discipline! The Honorable Frederick Douglas stated “it is easier to build strong children than to repair broken men”.

Connecting With The Right Mentor We do not provide mentors because African American Males are lacking positive adult role models. Instead we provide mentors to enable them to successfully make the transition into adulthood in hopes they will become law abiding citizens connected to meaningful work while maintaining healthy relationships.

Why Trust Is Important Very often mentoring programs attempt to match mentors to youth based on interest or common characteristics.

Statistics have proven that there must first be a bridge of trust before a relationship can be established. We desire to gain the trust of the male so that what’s being taught can result in a positive outcome.

A Sense of Belonging When a sense of belonging is felt within African American Males, the results are a continuation of participation. It is our goal to encourage a continual relationship with youth and AAMLA with hopes of impacting generations to come thereafter. This starts with a sense of belonging.

Pastor Vander Purcell, Founder

The Balancing Act One of the major goals to keeping one’s balance, is to know when it is lost. When balance is no longer an option, disrespect of oneself, bad choice’s and wrongful influence will soon take place. We inspire ways to encourage African American Males to seek balance in their life.

Integrity We seek for African American Males to understand values in their lives. We encourage them to implement their thoughts and actions based on positive values. When values are primal in one’s life, then integrity is visibly demonstrated.

Trauma Experiences & Violence Statistics have proven that African American Males who were raised in environments where violence and trauma experiences were prevalent,there is a delay in achieving milestone accomplishments. The AAMLA seek to build skills in youth by structured activity that promote healing and growth.

The AAMLA Scholarship Fund The AAMLA demonstrate ways to promote and reward African American Males who are affected by programs sponsored by The African American Male Leadership Academy. h Triad - March - 2016

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Now booking food truck or full service catering for weddings, family reunions, birthday parties, company luncheons, church events, and fundraisers.

Interested in carrying Hickory Tree Turkey BBQ in your retail store or restaurant, We are now selling Wholesale

$0.99 Turkey Hotdogs w/ Turkey Chili and other fixings everyday until 3pm

Turkey Rib Fridays

Call For More Information

Tuesday 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM Wednesday 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM Thursday 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM Friday 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM Saturday 12:00 – 7:00 PM Sunday & Monday Closed

(336) 617-6874 2804 Randleman Rd, Greensboro, NC 27406 36

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January/February January/February 2015 2015

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Buckle Up Or It Can Cost You Time And Money Did you know that according to North Carolina Law all drivers and passengers ages 16 and older are required to wear a properly fastened seat belt while a vehicle is being driven on the streets or highways of North Carolina (NCGS 20-135.2A).

Children and youth 16 and under are required to be properly secured in seat belt or a weight appropriate child passenger restraint system pursuant to NCGS 20-137.1(a1).

If you are driving with a passenger in the car that is under the age of 16 years old and she or he is not properly secured in a seat belt or a weight appropriate child passenger restraint system then you can be charged with violation of NCGS 20-137.1. If convicted, two driver’s license points will be assessed to your North Carolina Driver’s license.

If you are charged with failure to wear your seat belt and choose to pay your ticket without appearing in court then you are pleading guilty to the infraction charged. There are some exceptions to the North Carolina Seat belt law, if you are given a ticket for this violation, please give our office a call. We may be able to save you time and money by appearing in court on your behalf.

Please be safe and buckle up. h

Attorney At Law

Candace Morton

2801 Pinecroft Rd Ste C, Greensboro, NC 27407

336-218-0045

THE EVENT CENTER

2100 E. WENDOVER AVE | GREENSBORO, NC 42

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www.tmfphotography.com

Weddings, Engagement Shoots Banquets, Senior Pictures

Special Events and More!

Dr. Tiffany Fuller - Owner

336-908-4933

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Jazzy

336-412-0012

620 S Elm St - Suite 151 Greensboro, NC 27406 Screen Printing - Embroidery -T Shirts - Caps - Greek Wear

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Want to advertise, Call 336-340-7844

Children First Development

Now Enrolling!

1st and 2nd Shift Available

131 Manley Avenue

(Near West Market Street & Spring Garden Street) Greensboro, NC 27407

Phone:336-292-6000

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Revitalize Your Body & Improve Your Health

O2 Drops is our one-of-a-kind formula of bio-available oxygen molecules and essential trace minerals that is going to revitalize your body and improve your health in ways that you might not have thought possible. The proprietary Activated Stabilized Oxygen in O2 Drops has been the subject of more than two dozen independent research studies at laboratories and at universities all over the world. Athletes, scientists, educators, and health professionals and practitioners have testified to its safety and efficacy repeatedly.

Many Benefits!!

Can dramatically boosts energy levels May help strengthen the immune system May heighten concentration and alertness May help relieve headaches May reduce the symptoms of hangovers Helps improve blood circulation May help the liver in cleansing itself of toxins May promote faster recovery from injury, stress or strenuous exercise, and much more!!

Distributors Wanted Call Darryl Keck

For A Limited Time **with every purchase**

Receive A Free 3 Day Hotel Stay at Myrtle Beach or Hilton Head, SC

To Learn More

336-549-6389 704-763-1421

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