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

HUNTSVILLE

Jan./Feb. 2022 Volume 2 Issue 3

No More Dirty Inc. Huntsville - Jan./Feb. 2022

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My Expectations and The Truth A Letter From The Editor

I would have to say up poor world About standards.It! There Are Nothat If,I grew Ands, OrbyButs

I never felt like it because my mother constantly poured unconditional love into my other siblings and me. Her love wouldn’t meEditor to focus on what I didn’t have or anything A Letterallow from the I could be missing. However, as life happened, I realized that when compared to others, my experiences were more What if tomorrow arrive? All oftoyour plans, hopes complex. Even still, I haddidn’t the opportunity overcome them. and dreams wouldn’t have a street to park on. What if everything that you decidedthings to putI off until tomorrow One of the most important learned from my never happened? There reasonoverride to save for upbringing is that thewould truthbe willnoalways my a rainy day, and you could spare someone the trouble of making expectations. The very first car that I owned, I purchased What if ayour opportunity seemingly forpromises. myself. It wasn’t newlast vehicle, but it was mine. Itexpired had a today? What would you do? few dents, and the tires didn’t match either. The heat or air conditioning didn’t work, and the exhaust pipe would shake I’ve been told that I often seem like I do too much. like a leaf when I started the car, probably because it was Honestly, I feel like I am not doing enough and I’m a firm being held in place by the wiring of a close hanger. With all of believer in knowing that God wouldn’t put anything on me its imperfections, my car was a beauty in my sight, and I was that I couldn’t handle. I sometimes wonder how life would very appreciative to own it. be if I chose to sit idle and accept what it presented to me. I have found that to be very boring. In my opinion, opportunity Though it seemed likeafforded I drove that car for all Aeternity, it only is a blessing that isn’t to everyone. challenge survived one year with me. I didn’t keep gas in the fuel tank, to me is an adventure. What is the worst that can happen? andIfIInever changed the oilifeither. I drovebut it fast, andlearn on cold do nothing, I fail, and I try I don’t, instead mornings I didn’t allow it to warm up. Rarely did I bathe it in or something new about myself. Relinquish your pride and even provide it with return acquire life.routine or preventative maintenance, and before I knew it, my first and only method of transportation slowed and shut offgiven in thetomiddle of the road. Thedown best advice ever me happened when someone told me to make my tomorrow happen today. In doing so See, I expected myway car through to run forever, but athe I have pressed my doors with keytruth that isonly I never anythingI have to ensure that it would. I expected hopedid provided. also learned the difference between mywhat car toGod go blesses when I needed to but considered mywith me withitand whatnever life can burden me thoughtless and erratic treatment’s impact onconfident it. I expected as well. I compare it to knowing when to be and to when to bein quiet, because ride forever, but the truth is I never invested my cars’ future. someone may get it confused with being I’m saying that arrogant. we will only get out of life what we put into it. How Make you tomorrow will we ever expect to know God happen today, but most if we never spend time with Him? it count. My goalimportantly in life is to make win. For this Life is but a be whisper to happen, I must willingand to do we must put ourselves in a what is necessary to win and align position to hear what it myself with what is true, whichisis telling us. God’s expectations.

TerryL.L.Watson Watson Terry 4

Editor/Founder

www.huamimagazine.com Terry L Watson

Publisher

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On The Cover

Photo by Shaw Photography Group

HUNTSVILLE

CONTENTS

JAN./FEB. 2022

In The Key of Dance Studios

Nykisha Banks

On The Cover

No More Dirty Inc.

Minister Fred Whitlow II

Delectable Delights by Tarolyn

Tarolyn Street

Ladies 1st

Shajaunna Jordan

Huami Magazine Cutest Baby

Railyn Kate

Also Featured

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

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

Huntsville - Jan./Feb. 2022

LaKesha Spencer Learn more about her journey of becoming a healthier version of herself. Drink 2 Shrink with Coach Lakesha. Atlanta, GA

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No More Dirty Inc. By Terry L. Watson Photos by Charles Beason

Frederick Whitlow II is affectionately known as “Mr. Fred, Minister Fred II, and Mr. Whitlow”. The Huntsville, AL resident loves people and is passionate about helping disenfranchised and underserved communities. He serves these areas by meeting their needs, including health, financial literacy, and economic stability. He also assists these individuals with discovering and embracing their purpose, worth, and potential. He meets no strangers! If you know Fred, then you know that he’s exceptionally intentional about helping others learn their worth and purpose. He is a 2011 graduate of Oakwood University and the founder of No More Dirty Inc., Stric’ly Jesus Inc., and Stric’ly Jesus Records - [No More Dirty Entertainment]. A native of Newburgh, NY, Minister Fred is the son of an educator and minister. He launched Stric’ly Jesus to produce Christain Hip-Hop music to negate many negative images portrayed through hip-hop and rap music. As an artist himself, he understood how powerful the impact of music has on shaping lives. He began writing songs and recording with artists who had the same passion. This resulted in him writing multiple songs, producing six compilations and four albums of his own, with two radio hits, “It’s a Love Thang”, and “God Is Good”. He also produced two urban remixes of the traditional hymn,“Trust & Obey” and “Holy” (Youtube and Vimeo). Under his Stric’ly Jesus label he also produced a radio show called “Saved 2 Da’ Bone”, and produced over 25 Christian Rap and Hip-hop albums for other artists. “It is through reaching individuals that churches may not come by, I became more aware of the real needs of the community which led me to create my nonprofit, No More Dirty, Inc,” he says. As the Founder and Executive Director, he identifies, develops, and provides real solutions, including urban interventions and community initiatives that transform lives, especially those in underserved and disenfranchised areas.

“Part of No More Dirty, Inc.’s purpose is to make lasting changes in the community. Our message encourages and promotes good citizenship, economic growth, unity, peace, social accountability,” Minister Fred says. He partnered with fraternities, sororities, and community leaders to facilitate a voting initiative to encourage public housing residents and others to register to vote. This initiative produced nearly 12,000 registered voters, with approximately 3500 individuals registering for the first time or since the 2008 election. Minister Fred and No More Dirty, Inc. joined forces with several community organizations to bring awareness to the history of the confederate monument previously located on the Madison County Courthouse steps for 115 years. Along with the Rosa Parks Committee lead, Black Lives Matter- Huntsville, INC., and others, they successfully relocated the monument to the Confederate cemetery in Huntsville. He has also organized the Good Music & Arts Festival, the first-ever in Huntsville. The event is a (Family-Friendly) free event that partners with nonprofits and vendors to share positive and inspirational music, including creative expressions in spoken word, mime, art, and food. At the event, employment opportunities and community resources are also available.

“God made it happen. That position was open for individuals with a bachelor’s degree, and I didn’t have any degree at the time.”

Minister Fred says he got the calling from God to serve many years ago while visiting his parents in New Orleans. He had gone there to help his parents move, but while sleeping one night, he heard the voice of God speak to him. “ He told me to stay in New Orleans and be a blessing. I was hesitant but recognized how good God had been to me in the past, so I surrendered to his request. I said, “Lord, if I do this, it’s gotta be better than what you’ve already done.” His reply, “This is bigger than all the world”. So, I relocated to Louisiana,” Minister Fred says. Next, he was asked to become the Youth Pastor of a large congregation. He then spoke to the young inmates at the Bridge City Correctional Center For Youth under the D.O.C. in Louisiana. The next day, they offered him full-time employment with benefits and retirement to become the Assistant to the Warden and Assistant Chaplain for religious Services, and he accepted. “God made it happen. That position was open for individuals with a bachelor’s degree, and I didn’t have any degree at the time,” he says. Being there helped him see first-hand what brokenness looked like and its devastating impact on families, including incarceration, homicide, suicide, and generational deterioration of an entire community. From 2005 to 2006, even while surviving Hurricane Katrina, Minister Fred realized his calling. In 2006, he relocated back to Huntsville, AL, and the rest is history. Some of the other community initiatives that Minster Fred is involved with is CampSMART, a two to three-week interdisciplinary enrichment camp for youth ages (9-16). The camps focus on critical thinking through Creative Writing and Performance Art, Critical Thinking through Science, Technology, Education, Engineering and Math (S.T.E.E.M.), Rockets, Robotics and Research, and Critical Thinking through Film, Music, and Media Production. There is also the The Greatness Project, whose focus is to understand how communities and culture impacts youth. No More Dirty, Inc. has developed a unique interdisciplinary character development initiative called Greatness. It is designed for youth and teens ages 11-19 who have been negatively impacted by brokenness, interruption in family life, violations, and unforeseeable happenings.

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Another program they offer is The Session: Bible x Beats x Bars, which helps broken people heal and grow. It takes place every Saturday at 2:00 pm at Minister Fred’s 21st Century community-based urban center, The Spot Where Lives Transform. He also has the No More Dirty Radio Show & Podcast, which airs on both terrestrial stations, online and on streaming platforms such as G93 Radio at 5:00 pm, 103.1WEUP at 6:00 pm. The No More Dirty Podcast can be listened to anytime and worldwide on all streaming platforms like Anchor, Spotify, and AppleMusic. The No More Dirty TV Show airs on Friday evenings at 7:30 pm CST, on YouTube and Facebook. Stric’ly Jesus began in the early 1990s while Minister Fred served diligently with citywide programs, such as the “DARE Program ‘’, “The Night Out Against Crime” and the at-risk male initiative, “COARMM”. He not only served in the role of Youth Pastor at the New Life SDA Church, he also launched a late night urban intervention initiative in his church gymnasium called, “B.B.P.” [“Basketball, Bible Study and Praise”]. “This was unique because it was done when there was a lack of resources needed for community development. We also addressed the pressures of school truancy, teen pregnancy, unemployment, fatherlessness, and the slow introduction of gang-affiliated recruitment activity,” he says. He created a space for adolescents, teens, and young adults and bridged two unlikely associated worlds, the unchurched and the church. He opened the church gymnasium from 9:00 pm to 1:00 am and helped thousands of youth and young adults find their purpose. First and foremost, Fred says his mother has always been his number one supporter. He also credits his English professor, Dr. Ramona Hyman, for being articulate and a great communicator while remaining culturally relevant. He says the late Dr. E. E. Cleveland taught him to speak the truth and profess Jesus, be relatable, without compromise. “He was my pastoral role model who I saw as my spiritual father,” he says. Finally, he shares how Kwame Ronnie Vanderhorst gave him a non-traditional image to look up to.

Minister Fred Whitlow II

www.nomoredirty.org info@nomoredirty.org 256-698-9749 Facebook: Fred Whitlow II Instagram @nomoredirtyinc @ministerfredtwo

Minister Fred plans to have No More Dirty Campus in every underserved and disenfranchised community moving forward. He also plans to create No More Dirty Academies for youth and teens. Additionally, Minister Fred intends to expand his media platforms to national syndication. He expects this expansion will provide a safe environment for creatives, artists, and entrepreneurs who desire to be change agents to create while using morality and clean content as the standard for success. To learn more about Minister Fred Whitlow II, and to partner and support his programs, please visit his website. h

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Monica Montgomery

The Happy Pen Creative Writing Services

By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by Monica Montgomery

For Monica Montgomery, her life has happened by way of the right opportunities. Writing is something that Monica realized a love for early in life. The East Saint Louis, MO native was raised by a single mother and is the youngest in the family of four. She grew up and still resides in East St. Louis and shares she was blessed to be exposed to the greatness that East St. Louis is known for. “I come from a creative family, so writing was a natural path for me. I love reading stories about mysterious people and magical places. However, it wasn’t until I wrote my first short story for the Young Author’s contest in the 5th grade that I believed I could create those people and places. The entire class was asked to write a story for the contest. I complained to my sister that I didn’t know what to write about. Annoyed, she said the most random thing she could think of. “Write about The Backwards City of Page.” She rattled it off as if it was a real place, and I should have known where and what it was. Then she said, “It’s where everything is backward!” With her help, I wrote my first piece of fiction. I was hooked from that day on,” Monica says. Monica is the owner of The Happy Pen Creative Writing Services. Her company offers writing seminars, coaching sessions, and commercial writing for websites and personal projects. Monica received a scholarship to Shaw University in Raleigh, North Carolina. She completed her Bachelor’s of Arts, English Literature, and music minor at Southern Illinois University, Edwardsville, and received her MFA, Fiction Writing from Lindenwood University, St. Charles. In 2020 she was selected to participate in the East St. Louis Urban Education Teaching Residency Program. The program was an intense ten-month accelerated Master’s degree program and helped Monica earn a Master’s in Elementary Education from National Louis University. Today, Monica works as a first-grade teacher at Wyvetter Younge School of Excellence in East St. Louis. Professionally, she has written, directed, and produced several Christian plays and skits for her church’s youth group and spent the last fifteen years volunteering and mentoring youth in dramatic arts.

Her first short story was published in the Chicken Soup for the Soul series, “Chicken Soup for the African American Woman’s Soul,” in 2006. She has written her first novel series, “An Everlasting Love”. The first two books, An Everlasting Love: Concrete Soul and The Summer of Carlos, are available for purchase on Amazon. com, and the third book of the series will be released in June 2022. Additionally, she writes for I Am East St. Louis the Magazine and serves as V.P. at Top Dog Studios, a St. Louis-based independent film group. Monica says what she enjoys most about writing is the ability to create a place of learning and escape simultaneously. “I love reading because I get to travel to far-off places and meet people from every walk of life and beyond. When I write, I don’t just want to tell a story; I want to create a space where the author, reader, and character meet in a harmonious ebb and flow. A place where one doesn’t exist without the other. The highest praise is when the reader or audience refers to a character as independent, free-thinking. I’ve had people walk up to me and say they have a love-hate relationship with one of my characters. The word that stuck out to me was relationship. As an educator, I love when a student gets it. Whether it be a first-grader learning to count by ten or someone taking up the challenge of writing, the light in their eyes is the same. It’s like a door they weren’t aware of opens, and they are breathing for the first time. It’s amazing to watch,” she says. Like anyone else, Monica says she could spend hours talking about her wounds, woes, and regrets, but it wouldn’t change anything. Ultimately, it has been her trust in God that has carried her throughout her life. She shares, “In my late twenties, I was diagnosed with cancer. I have been in remission for fourteen years now, but it was a wake-up call. I could no longer wait for the life I wanted. I had to go out and get it. I never imagined myself as an author and a teacher. When I entered the Young Author’s contest in 5th grade, my teacher said she believed she had heard the story before and accused me of cheating. I knew I hadn’t, but it didn’t matter. I won second place in the district. The first prize went to a 6th grader. My teacher never apologized. and the damage was done. I have no children of my own, but I realized that my words and what I create with them are just as important to me as a child would be. Being honest meant exposing my “baby” to the world and subjecting it to public scrutiny and rejection. Any parent can tell you that hearing that your child isn’t good enough is painful, to say the least. To my surprise and excitement, readers are my writings, and I continue to trust God.” Monica says the one thing she would have changed about her journey in life would be publishing an essay back in high school. “I believe it would have gotten me into professional writing much sooner. Then again, would I have gained the experience that I think contributed to the person I am today? Destinations are great, but life is in the journey,” she says. h

Drink 2 Shrink with Coach LaKesha 14

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By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by Lakesha Spencer Drink 2 Shrink sounds almost unheard, yet the concept is a reality for Coach Lekesha Spencer. The fitness enthusiast has transformed her life simply by addressing her health needs head-on. The Detroit, MI native, says her company, Drink 2 Shrink with Coach LaKesha, was born in 2020 through her millionaire mentor, Stanecia Graham. LaKesha says Stanecia was the movement’s visionary, which allowed each partner to personalize and brand themselves in business. The concept is much like a franchise, minus the milliondollar startup cost. “It all began when I went to the doctor for a routine physical. My doctor prescribed me four medications to go along with the six prescriptions I already had. As a nurse, I knew the effects of drugs and the side effects. I had to make a change, so I got my mind right and lost 45 lbs. The rest was history. To this day, all 10 of those prescribed medications have been discontinued,” LaKesha says. For the most part, LaKesha shares her life is one of resilience. After several failed marriages, she learned how to bounce back and become the person she always knew she was. “After committing myself to better my health, I changed my mindset around food and unhealthy behaviors. As a result, I have released 45 pounds, and I look and feel amazing. I now walk with conviction about the products I offer. My ultimate goal is to help others who are serious about losing weight and becoming healthier,” she says. LaKesha describes herself as a devout woman of God and a beacon of light to her family and friends. She was reared as an only child by her loving mother, whom she describes as her best friend. Growing up, LaKesha shares she was taught she needed to go to college to get a good education to become a teacher, doctor, lawyer, or nurse. So that’s what she did. She studied hard, and I obtained her Bachelor of Science

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degree in Nursing. After three years of working as a nurse, she knew that it wasn’t for her. “I often questioned if it was even my calling at all,” she says. That doubt led her to dabble in entrepreneurship. “April 2020, I had an emergency surgery. During that time off work, I realized that my Drink 2 Shrink business was more than a hobby, it really pays. After 28 years of nursing, I relinquished my safety net and became a fulltime entrepreneur.” LaKesha shares that entrepreneurship has afforded her the freedom and flexibility to do exactly what she wants. It also provides her with a chance to take care of her parents. “We have the opportunity to travel the world and enjoy one another,” she says. She shares what she loves most about her business: the results her clients obtain when they follow the designed regime she provides. “I love knowing their results put them in a happier place where they feel so much better about themselves. There is nothing like a girl being able to fit into her favorite pair of skinny jeans again, or her going into the backside of her closet and grabbing her favorite dress that she refused to give up after many years.” In addition to the positive results from her clients, LaKesha says their testimonies of overall improved health inspire her to keep pushing. “I am inspired because I am a product of the product, and I know firsthand the feelings I have from my transformation. I know that I am transforming lives, not just selling a product,” she says. As a coach, she offers this advice to anyone who wants to achieve their goal in life and in health. “Be very persistent and never give up on your goals and dreams. Be yourself and know that you can fulfill your heart’s desire if you don’t give up.”

Coach Lakesha Spencer www.healthylivingwithcoach.squarespace.com Coachblings@gmail.com

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Her plans for 2022 are to stay consistent and build upon the double digits of the year with the expectation of doubling the number of clients that she can help. She also plans to double her income which she says will allow for her to help her family and people in her community. To learn more about Drink 2 Shrink with Coach LaKesha, please visit their website. h

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

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

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

www.maddivaconcierge.com 20

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

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

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

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

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In The Key of Dance Studio Photography by Bricen

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By Dorjea McClammey Photos Provided by In The Key Of Dance Studio

New Orleans, LA native Nykisha Banks loves to dance. Dancing has been in her blood since she was three years old. She shares, “As a child, I was one of those kids who cried on stage. That didn’t sit too well with my instructor, and my mother was told not to bring me back to participate until I was ready.” That time didn’t come until she was age eight. From there, Nykisha found her footing and continued to dance and flourish. She has danced in many productions, all the way to high school. After graduating, she worked with a dance company where she traveled, continued her training, performed, and ultimately became a dance instructor. Today, Nykisha owns In the Key of Dance Studio based in Conyers, GA. She also has founded a nonprofit organization, In the Key of Dance Performing Arts Inc., and published a book, A Dancer’s Leap Into Accountability. Her book details her 22 plus years as a dancer and dance instructor. Nykisha teaches ballet, tap, jazz, modern, lyrical, and musical theater dance with her studio. She also offers a thorough stretching and conditioning regime, starting at age three up to eighteen, and it’s available for some adult classes. She also takes every health and safety precaution to ensure a safe, covid-free environment for her students. Nykisha’s success as a dance instructor and business owner is rooted in her ability to connect. She is very imaginative, loyal, and, most importantly, an effective communicator. Her success in the small things translates to everyone else’s success, while her goal as a business owner is to be prepared for whatever the day may present. Nykisha takes pride in being a very hands-on, proactive leader. Her loyalty has gained a lot of respect from both her students and parents. “I’m held accountable every day, all day. As a dance instructor and studio owner, I hold the parents accountable, especially when it comes to having their kids ready to perform,” she says.

Nykisha founded In The Key of Dance Studio in 2011. That was during a period when she was often hired to train girls and boys in various locations. She ran her company as such until the opportunity for a brick-and-mortar location presented itself. She holds registration twice a year, once in the fall, and another registration session in January immediately after the holiday season. That session is open until March. She also offers summer dance camps.

Photography by Bricen

Nykisha has always found a way to give back, and it made sense for her to launch her nonprofit. In the Key of Dance Performing Arts Inc. sponsors children in need after a thorough interview process. “I am committed to nurturing my community by providing art enrichment through dance. With the nonprofit, our mission is to provide lifelong tools that will aid in building a disciplined lifestyle from a solid technical foundation. There are many ways to reach our youth; we just happen to do it through dance,” she says. Nykisha also partners with another nonprofit, SelfDiscovery: Pain, Positioning, & Purpose Inc. The mission for connecting with them is to promote mental wellness, and they also gifted Nkisha’s company with BuildA-Bears for each dancer that registers. All proceeds Nykisha receives from her book and donations go directly back into her nonprofit.

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Nykisha’s gift speaks for itself. They have won several awards, including the World Dance Championship for a lyrical piece, and received The World Dance Championship Choreography award for that same production. When asked what she loves most about her business, Nykisha shares, “I can do the creative work without push back or constraint.” As someone who used to work in corporate America for years, dance was always her place of escape. Now that she is a full-fledged studio owner, she can do the work that she desires.

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Photography by Bricen

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Huntsville - Jan./Feb. 2022

“I love teaching my young students major life values such as working independently or as a team, holding themselves and others accountable, and presenting themselves in front of others without any fear.” Nykisha also values the impact she has on the lives of those she trains. “I love teaching my young students major life values such as working independently or as a team, holding themselves and others accountable, and presenting themselves in front of others without any fear. For me, it’s bigger than dance,” she says. Nykisha says her inspiration comes from seeing her dancers grow as individuals. “Seeing them no longer calling their parents feeling upset or wanting to give up because they felt like their teacher was too hard on them shows growth to me,” she shares. While Nykisha has enjoyed her journey, it has come with a few challenges. The Covid 19 pandemic has been one of them. After having to stop teaching & training as a result of the pandemic, Nykisha held a brick-and-mortar soft opening last June. She outfitted her facility with new mirrors, floors, ballet barres, fresh paint signs, and a sound system. She says, “It was a faith walk. I opened the doors knowing it was a possibility that no one would show up, but I had to try.” Her faith paid off as In The Key of Dance Studio has enjoyed constant growth, even during the pandemic. As for what the future holds, Nykisha’s plans are very clear. “ I want to grow and produce bigger and more positive memorable experiences for my community,” she states. One thing is for sure; she will continue to dance her way into the lives of others for many years to come. To learn more about In The Key of Dance Studios or purchase a copy of Nykisha’s book, A Dancer’s Leap Into Accountability, please visit their h website. Her book is also available for purchase online at Amazon.

Nykisha Banks In The Key Of Dance Studio 1910 Georgia Highway 20 SE Conyers, GA 30012 678-806-5168 www. inthekeyofdance.com

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MAGAZINE

Cutest Baby

Railyn Kate The daughter of Raisha Mercer and Dexter Bozeman

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

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Delectable

Delights By Tarolyn By Terry L. Watson Photos by Christopher Fails Sr.

It’s one thing to have a sweet tooth, but to have it satisfied is where the real pleasure comes in. If you happen to be in the Pensacola community of Florida, there is one company that is sure to meet your delight. That company is Delectable Delights by Tarolyn Inc., a home-based cottage bakery. Delectable Delights offers both traditional and custom cakes, as well as a wide variety of treats. Owned and founded by Tarolyn Street, they can create anything for such occasions as baby showers, birthday parties, weddings, and more. Tarolyn is the true definition of a savvy businesswoman. She launched her company with a determination to succeed and set an example to her children of what hard work will do for them. She has been married for 12 years to her husband, David, who she describes as her business partner, prayer warrior, best friend, and counselor. Together they shepherd a blended family of six children and seven Godchildren. Tarolyn says the truth is she did not want to launch her business. “I enrolled into culinary arts school right out of high school, but I had so much going on in my life, including being homeless, that I did not finish. I would make cakes for family and friends, but I wasn’t interested in making cakes and treats full-time. My focus changed, and I enrolled in school to become a licensed massage therapist. I was running from my calling. I was scared. Scared of failure and scared of not being accepted. I was also scared of not knowing what to do. I had these emotions even after winning third place in the state of Florida VICA Commercial Baking and Pastries Competition. However, things changed one day when I heard God say, “I gave you a talent, so what are you going to do with it?” I told God if He’s pushing me out here, I know I have no choice but to move with His plan, and so I did,” she says.

On February 11, 2015, her company opened for business. Tarolyn says she was referred by her classmate, Shirley Johnson, to a customer who needed her services. Shirley was already familiar with Tarolyn’s sweet creations, and things took off once the connection was made. “From that weekend until this very day, I have soared beyond what I could ever have thought,” she says. Tarolyn says what she loves most about her business is being able to touch the lives of others with something as simple as a cake or treat. “To be able to build relationships and bonds with people and see the looks on their faces when they see what my hands have created. Their faces light up with excitement. This makes it all worth it.” With all that she has endured in life, Tarolyn continues to credit God with being her source and strength. “God is my biggest inspiration. Without Him, I’m absolutely nothing,” she shares. Tarolyn credits her husband and kids for pushing and motivating her to be the best every day. “On days when I need that extra push, they give it to me. They provide the drive and the confidence I need to go further.” Additionally, she acknowledges Derric and Valiencia, a couple in her community who she says exemplifies what genuine love for community looks like. “I have seen them effortlessly care for the children on the dance team as if the members were their own kids. I’ve witnessed them take money out of their pockets to make sure no one is left behind,” she says. For those who may be considering starting a business like Tarolyn, she offers the following advice. “Be confident in yourself and know your worth from the beginning. Even in knowing your worth, remain humble and learn something from every avenue of your life.”

850-375-3417 delectablesbyt@yahoo.com Facebook @ Delectable Delights by Tarolyn

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As the future continues to look bright for her and Delectable Delights by Tarolyn, she hopes to become more involved in her community by giving back and serving. One way Tarolyn plans to accomplish this is to shine a light on more small businesses and help them grow and become more successful. That is what love looks like. To learn more about Delectable Delights by Tarolyn, please visit them on Facebook, or contact them directly. h

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We Are Athletes, Not Tomboys By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided By Shajaunna Jordan Chicago native Shajaunna Jordan has her hands and mind all over the place. She is the owner of the first-ever female-focused sports agency in the world, Ladies 1st Sports Agency, LLC. Ladies 1st Sports Agency, LLC provides women the opportunity to pursue their lifelong dream of playing professional sports. It also offers an Agent Training Course, which prepares a new generation of women’s sports agents with knowledge, critical thinking, ethics, and integrity in sports management. Shajaunna is a former student-athlete and attended Simeon Vocational High School in Chicago. There, she played three sports, including Volleyball, Basketball, and Softball. She was also an Academic Scholar. After graduating from Simeon, she attended Northern Arizona University as a scholarship student-athlete. She also attended Marshalltown Community College and Texas A&M Corpus Christi. She brandishes four degrees (A.A.-Communications, B.A.- Sports Marketing, M.S.- Physical Education/Coaching, M.S. Sports Management) with a Certificate of Athletic Administration. Additionally, she has coached and taught at the elementary, high school, and collegiate levels. Besides the Ladies 1st Sports Agency, Shajaunna has developed other projects such as Men2 Sports Management, The Independent Professional Women’s Basketball League, The Independent Professional Women’s Basketball League, and The Girls Become Women Sports Foundation. The IPWBL is the first of its kind, as Shajaunna is the first woman to own her a league, including all teams. It provides women the opportunity to compete for experience and exposure or to stay in the game. The league is made of three regions, Midwest (Chicago, Indiana, and Wisconsin), Deep South (Tennessee & Mississippi), and Southern (Texas).

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Shajaunna shares the idea and concept began in Spring 2016 with her Professional Women’s Basketball Team pro team, The Chicago Breeze. “My Vice President, Angelina Williams, is a former WNBA Champion and played overseas professionally for over 15 years. Angelina, along with my sister Constance Jinks is why I started the agency. I knew I wanted to change that process for women and make sure they were understood as a woman first and an athlete second,” she says. In 2018, the Ladies 1st Sports Agency, LLC was officially formed. Shajaunna credits her mother with having the most significant influence over her life. “My mother was my first example of hard work and taught me how to control my destiny,” she says. There is another woman who has helped to shape her life. “I thought I would never meet another woman like my mother, but I was wrong. My high school coach Chris Pruitt showed me how to be selfless, be a teammate, and work with diverse groups of people. Coach Pruitt is why I work for women in sports.” Shajaunna admits that her journey hasn’t been easy. She has operated and funded her business without sponsors or donations for the past five years. All she had was a dream to help girls become women. There have been times when she wanted to walk away from the very thing she loved. Yet, she held on, and now others benefit from her commitment. “I have quit seven times in one day. I wanted to go back to being a regular person. Though I didn’t give up but instead stood solid in what I knew,” she says. Thankfully, Shajaunna didn’t give up. Her son, Alvin, a 12-year-old student-athlete, owns one of the programs she developed, Men2 Sports Management. “He shows me every day that I did something right in my life. I made him the owner of Men2 Sports Management because I wanted to leave my son with a business, not debt,” she says. Shajaunna understands that his eyes are looking at her as he positions himself to be the carrier of her dreams. Moving forward, Shajaunna plans to continue with her mission and vision for Ladies 1st Sports Agency, LLC. She also intends to help as many women as possible. “There will be more girls who will become women and show men that they are athletes and not tomboys!” Please visit her website to learn more about Shajaunna Jordan and her programs. h

www.ladies1stsportsagency.com 40

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Fred Whitlow II - No More Dirty