Huami Magazine Indianapolis Jan./Feb. 2024

INDIANAPOLIS

®

Jan./Feb. 2024 Vol. 2 Issue 8

Bruce Ford Poet, Actor, and Visionary Indianapolis - Jan./Feb. 2024

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Faith. Experience. Results.

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Prayer Is More Effective A Letter From The Editor

Happy New Year! It is truly a blessing to continue to do what God has called me to do. I am so appreciative of what Huami Magazine was able to accomplish in 2023, and I am even more excited about the things that will happen ahead. I thank each supporter, and I promise that we will allow God to be the vision and direction of this amazing publication.

This year, Mykel Media Company LLC, the parent company that publishes Huami Magazine, is back at it. We are excited to relaunch Spunq Sports Magazine. We are also amping up the production of Huami For Kids Magazine, and with each publication that is produced by our company, a newly designed line of merchandise and apparel will accompany it.

When I think about where we have come from over the previous seventeen years, my heart wells with emotion because I know we couldn’t have made it without the prayers of those who believe in what God purposed. I thank you for your prayers and for believing.

My message is for those who are questioning what is happening in your life. God is working. Oftentimes, we can’t see His hand, but He is there. Even at our lowest of lowest moments, and we have exhausted the last granule of strength to move, God is working.

We must believe that not everyone desires to see you fail. In the midst of onlookers, there are some who find comfort and strength in seeing the underdog win. Trophies are made for underdogs as well. What’s more beautiful to know is that true believers are strengthened by witnessing God work miracles in the lives of others, too!

As disciples and believers in God, we must always seek ways to be an answered prayer for someone who needs it. Long before God assigned me a purpose, I was helped out of my pits by the selfless prayers of other believers. Believers who weren’t amused or entertained by my shortcomings or faults but were excited about seeing me blossom into my fullest potential. So they prayed for me.

Prayer is the most effective thing we can do.

Terry L. Watson 4

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Dorjae’ McClammey Sherry Rogers Terry Watson Monica Montgomery

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Ashleigh Crawley Todd Youngblood Alphonso Abbott

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CONTENTS

JAN./FEB. 2024

INDIANAPOLIS

I Am She Mentoring

Vanessa R. Caswell

On The Cover

Lights, Camera, Action!

Bruce Ford

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Called To Serve In Excellence

Adam Harris

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KayDi’s Event Planning & Services

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Huami Magazine Cutest Baby

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Kris Rodgers

Mecca Causey

Also Featured

Pastor Curtis L. Johnson Meet the face and founder of Valley Brook Outreach Baptist Church. He has continued the legacy of his grandfather.

Greenville, SC

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Denise Lee Meet the face and founder of Broom Brush Tea Co. Learn more about she uses her teas to help others.

Phoenix, AZ

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Natasha Houston She has traveled the world with the US Air Force. Now, she is the face of Junkyard Fitness Inc. Learn more about what she does.

Little Rock, AR

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Indianapolis - Jan./Feb. 2024

Bruce Ford Poet, Actor, and Visionary

Information and Photos Provided by Bruce Ford

In the vibrant tapestry of artistic mastery, Bruce Ford stands as a polymath, infusing stages with his acting finesse, lyricism, and a fervent commitment to empowerment through poetry. His multifaceted journey converges in an electrifying symphony of talent, vision, and societal impact.

A versatile actor, Bruce is renowned for his triumphant portrayal of three distinct characters— Pa, Buster, and the Guard—in the soul-stirring production of “The Color Purple.” His portrayal of “Marty” in the captivating stage rendition of “Dreamgirls” further solidified his prowess, earning accolades and admiration from audiences and peers alike.

Yet, Bruce’s artistic canvas extends beyond the realms of traditional theater. His magnum opus, the one-man poetic stage show “The Audacity To Believe That I Am Free,” emerges as a testament to his boundless creativity and unwavering spirit. This transformative narrative chronicles the evolution from boyhood to manhood, resonating with the pulse of life in Indianapolis, Indiana—from the soulful ‘70s to the kaleidoscopic lights of 2024.

Within the confines of a world often deprived of avenues for our creative essence, young black men discover the resonance of their souls.”

With eloquence, Bruce crafts a performance that transcends time, color, and sound—a tapestry woven with stories, music, and poetry, pulsating with an undying spirit and fervor. His words echo the sentiments of a journey shaped by diverse characters, adventures, and experiences, painting a vivid mosaic of resilience and passion.

“Within the confines of a world often deprived of avenues for our creative essence, young black men discover the resonance of their souls,” Bruce professes. “Through disciplined dedication, we choreograph our destiny, step by step, until we dance freely in the spotlight of our potential.”

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Bruce’s creative vision extends beyond the stage, permeating into the lives of the youth through his “Words In Motion” program.

This initiative serves as a beacon, guiding elementary and high school students in embracing integrity and character through the prism of poetry. With this platform, he illuminates pathways to navigate life’s pressures, melding oral expressions and spoken word into transformative tools for selfexpression and growth.

In an endeavor to impart holistic empowerment, Bruce embarks on a new venture, partnering with Standinglions.com and MA&D Investment Group. Together, they orchestrate free Professional Health and Wealth Conferences across the Midwest—a testament to his commitment to nurturing minds and spirits, equipping individuals with tools for success beyond the artistic realm.

Spring heralds a new chapter as Bruce takes center stage with his band, EmbryOrganic, embarking on an eagerly awaited tour—a crescendo in his musical odyssey, infusing audiences with rhythms that resonate with the heartbeat of passion and purpose.

As March approaches, the release of “The Audacity To Believe I Am Free” in book format and a 16-song mixtape on his website awaits enthusiasts worldwide. This project promises to be a beacon of motivation and inspiration, extending his message far beyond the confines of a stage.

Bruce Ford’s impact ripples through time, transcending boundaries and genres, cultivating a legacy that ignites souls and nurtures aspirations. His indomitable spirit, boundless creativity, and unwavering dedication serve as an anthem, inspiring countless individuals to believe in the audacity of their dreams. Stay tuned for Bruce’s programs, brimming with wisdom and enlightenment, which will soon be available on Udemy—a testament to his commitment to shaping a brighter, empowered tomorrow.

To join Bruce on this journey, please follow him on his website. h

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Indianapolis - Jan./Feb. 2024

KayDi’s Event Planning & Services

By Dorjae McClammey Photos Provided by Kris Rodgers

If you have a birthday, wedding, or just a reason to celebrate, you need to check out Kris Rodgers with KayDi’s Event Planning & Services.

Currently residing in Huntsville, AL, St. Louis, MO, native is a graduate of Alabama A&M University. There, Kris obtained a Computer Science degree that connected perfectly with her passion for computer and video games, and with it, Kris would delve into the world of computer applications. Kris would also work in IT Support and Management before starting her family with her husband, Di’Juan.

Even though her background is in IT, Kris is well-versed in creating anything she can think of with her hands. As her family grew, Kris’s motherly duties involved planning events and parties for little ones. She discovered a newfound passion; not only was she able to give her kids a unique and signature experience, but it also allowed Kris to express her creativity. She would use typical themes of princesses and superheroes and even created a hip-hop carnival with an actual dancing clown included. “The parties were so extravagant that family members would call months in advance just to see what we had planned,” she says. It was apparent that she was onto something.

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Kris’s events became such a hit with her family that her husband suggested she turn her newfound love into a business.

She agreed, and so in 2009, KayDi’s Events was established. As her business began to find its footing in a new location, along came the Covid 19 pandemic, and just as the rest of the world came to a screeching halt, so did life for Kris. During this unforeseen saga, Kris realized that she didn’t enjoy working for someone else, especially a corporation that apparently didn’t value her worth. She had an answer for that, and KayDi’s Events would become a full-time venture.

The name KayDi’s Events is an ode to celebrating her family. Kris shared, “After years of hosting my kids’ parties, I named the business after them: Kaylen and Di’Juan. Every year, they inspired me to create new themes from Get Messy, Hip Hop Carnival, Kickball, and even Cupcake Wars. I became so involved in creating memorable experiences for them that including them in branding the business only made sense. They are genuinely the inspiration behind my events and what I create.”

The Rodgers

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KayDi’s Event Planning & Services has the capacity to produce various types of events. While their foundation is built around birthdays, social events, and weddings, Kris also covers corporate parties and engagements. When it comes to planning services, her team has that covered as well. They offer what she calls ‘last minute planning’ where the client may need another set of eyes for the little details. Whether it involves vendors, walkthroughs, or one-on-one consultations, her team takes pride in having solutions for every challenge. “Even if you only need someone to set up and break down, we got you,” Kris says. KayDi’s recently launched KayDi’s Event Rentals which is operated by Kris’s husband and KayDi’s Gifts operated by her daughter.

Pictured with Kris is her husband Di’Juan, Sr and their children, Kaylen, Di’Juan II, & DeMarcus

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My aunts and grandma used to sew, put things together, redo their bathrooms, and even hosted Barbie & Ken weddings.

So it comes naturally to me to create things with my hands “My aunts and grandma used to sew, put things together, redo their bathrooms, and even hosted Barbie & Ken weddings. So it comes naturally to me to create things with my hands.”

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Indianapolis - Jan./Feb. 2024

So, how did the creativity begin in Kris? She shares, “I grew up around women who were also creatives. My aunts and grandma used to sew, put things together, redo their bathrooms, and even hosted Barbie & Ken weddings. So it comes naturally to me to create things with my hands”. From flower and money bouquets to giant centerpieces, Kris focuses on taking her client’s vision, elevating it, and giving them more than anticipated. “We don’t offer cookie-cutter experiences because every client is different.”

Kris understands that her clients are often seeking to experience a timeless event, something that will be memorable and celebrated with family and friends.

Knowing this, she takes every client seriously. Kris describes an experience she had with a client who was diagnosed with cancer. “All they wanted was a chance to have one big celebration with their family before her health further declined. They called it, ‘A Gala of Gratitude’. While her loved ones didn’t know what to expect, they ultimately had a phenomenal time. From prayers, line dancing, an opera singer, and more, it was a celebration filled with love, and knowing that I was able to produce it for her makes it all worth it.”

Running a fully capable event planning company comes with its share of challenges. Kris shared that one challenge she has faced is having some clients not fully understand what party planning is or what is included with their services. She says that kind of misunderstanding can lead to assumptions about additional services or expected costs. She answers these challenges by being very transparent and providing full details about her processes on her website, allowing her potential clients to become fully informed. Still, she is available for any additional questions they may have.

Despite the ups and downs, Kris loves the growth that comes through her company. If you were to compare her work from 2008 to the present day, one thing that has stayed the same is her drive to make sure other people feel celebrated. Speaking of what’s next, Kris plans to continue adding new components to her brand, including transportation, travel, and more. She also plans to take her brand beyond Huntsville within a three to four-hour travel radius. All in all, her goal is to continue to pour out gifts and services to clients.

If you are thinking about starting an event planning business like that of KayDi’s Event Planning & Services, Kris offers some sound advice. “Be grateful that your problems are your problems. While the other side may look sweeter, you don’t know what journey or problems they went through to get where they are.”

For more information about Kris and Kaydi’s Event Planning & Services, please visit their website. h

www.kaydis.com Indianapolis - Jan./Feb. 2024

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Junkyard Fitness, Inc.

By Terry L. Watson - Photos Provided by Natasha Houston

While Natasha Houston resides in Little Rock, AR, her native home is undefined. Her stance is that she is not really from anywhere because she moved around a lot as a kid. After graduating high school, she joined the United States Air Force, and her nomadic conquest would continue. Now, as a Disabled Air Force Veteran, Natasha has found her footing as a successful physical fitness trainer, helping others obtain healthy lifestyles.

Natasha is the owner of Junkyard Fitness, Inc. Her company is operated under two umbrellas: a coaching side with Junkyard Clinic and a health side with Junkyard Fitness. “Junkyard Fitness, Inc. is a holistic business that focuses on the whole person. We offer services and products that educate clients and customers on the benefit of a natural holistic transition of mind, body, and soul,” she says.

Natasha offers a variety of coaching programs. One of them is Mindfulness & Stress Management, which teaches mindfulness techniques and strategies for managing stress. There is also Spiritual Coaching that helps individuals explore and enhance their spiritual beliefs, practices, and overall sense of purpose. Natasha also has Relationship Coaching that assists clients in improving their interpersonal relationships, whether they’re romantic, family, or friendship. With her Health & Wellness Coaching, she supports clients in improving their physical and mental health, often focusing on areas like nutrition, fitness, and stress management. Finally, Natasha provides Weight Loss & Holistic Nutrition, which focuses on nutrition and overall health, supporting dietary and lifestyle changes.

Her clients can choose alternative medicine or general health supplements through plant-based solutions. Her Junkyard Herbal/Juice Solutions include Compound Capsulated Supplements filled with plant-based herbs. She also has Sea Moss Gel, Elderberry, Fresh Cold Pressed Juice, and all-natural fruit juices for detox, energy, and nutritional value. Her Natural Hair/Skin Products are Natural Soaps, Natural Hair Oil, and Natural Hair and Skin Body Moisturizer or Butter.

Natasha has a Masters of Science degree in Organizational Leadership. She has served in fitness for six years, and in 2023, she incorporated wellness into her portfolio and began utilizing it in her healing journey.

Junkyard Fitness, Inc. was launched on June 1st, 2018. Natasha says, “I opened a gym in North Little Rock, AR, and only provided fitness programs. As I started noticing and learning how health and weight loss worked, I started looking into other ways to help my clients to aid in their weight loss journey. That opened the door to me exploring and learning more than just fitness benefits, but whole-body benefits and about mind and spirit. My research also helped to gain an understanding of the current food industry and how people are impacted by it. It also involved understanding black culture and how African Americans, hundreds of years ago, relied on plants and plant-based lifestyles for improved health and healing.”

In her business, Natasha says what she loves most about what she does is exposing the truth: the truth that everything isn’t fixed by medicine and that healing can happen naturally if you feed your body and mind to do so. “The more that I had expanded my knowledge on how the mind and body work, what it needs to heal, and the importance of physical strength, especially for the disabled, the more it has answered the one question I asked myself once I was medically discharged from the military; Was the body not meant to heal itself naturally? And if so, how?”

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Natasha says she is inspired by the teachings of the late, great Dr. Sebi and learning how the body is able to heal itself. “As stated before, I am a disabled military veteran, and I have over 11 physical disabilities and four mental health challenges. I have relied on medication for help with chronic pain, inflammation, the physical limitations it caused, and the level of sadness that followed. The day that I decided to end my relationship with prescribed medication was the day that I prayed to God to help me find a solution to my agony. Within the next 24 hours, a married couple and longtime friends, Darnell and Soraya Stark, recommended that I watch a video on YouTube about Dr. Sebi. I got lost in studies and started my own journey to self-healing in order to naturally cope with my health challenges,” she says.

There is Junkyard Fitness Inc. and the challenge of branding and building the brand. Natasha has tackled this head-on and realizes the benefits it has, as well as understands the different ways to incorporate it into her processes. “Marketing and branding strategist Sheenica Smiley of A Blind Vision Studios is currently coaching me. Sheenica is a photographer and has helped me make my brand more identifiable. We are currently working on putting processes in place to improve how I connect with current and future customers and clients,” she says. Additionally, Natasha is always looking for ways to educate her clients and others about the benefits of holistic lifestyle changes. A tool she has brought into the fold is a new podcast.

Personal development is also something Natasha focuses on. There is a level of confidence, faith, and tenacity she believes one must have to have as an entrepreneur. “The more I worked on myself and evolved into a newer version of myself, the better my business became. Working on myself looks like heavy mediation. It also looks like taking time by myself, tuning the world out, and checking in with my total self, mind, body, and soul,” she says.

For someone interested in holistic health as a business, Natasha advises always to be true to yourself first, and everything else will fall into place. “The holistic lifestyle is a journey, and nothing is to be rushed. The more information you absorb about the benefits and how it can help others, the more likely you are to grow through your own process. Sometimes, that requires pulling away from the business and taking time for yourself mentally, physically, and spiritually. It may seem like financial suicide, but it will actually make your business stronger.”

As she looks ahead, Natasha says she is finally ready to take her business outside of her local community of Little Rock, AR. “I have a lot of clients all over the world, and due to my connection to the military, I also have clients overseas. This has encouraged me to reach even further nationally and internationally by tapping into content sharing through podcasts, blogs, and speaking engagements. Personally, I am still working on myself. To whom much is given, much is required, and I want to be prepared mentally, physically, and spiritually to handle what is coming for me and Junkyard Fitness, Inc.” h

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Treat Yourself To A Hot Stone Massage in 2024 Information Provided by Sarah Watson - Healing Medical & Therapeutic Massage All massages generally fall under the alternative medicine umbrella. They’re becoming a popular complementary therapy for many conditions. A Hot Stone Massage is one of those therapies. Also know as “Heated Stones,” these massages are very beneficial to someone who needs pain management for achy, tense muscles and stiff joints. We have listed some of the many advantages that a Heated Stone Massage offers. Please enjoy!

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Helps Relieve Muscle Tension and Pain Heat is a great way to ease muscle tension and pain. The heat of the stones relaxes the muscles, while the weight provides the right amount of pressure to relieve unwanted pain. It helps increase blood flow to the affected area(s), which improves healing. It may also reduce muscle spasms, increase flexibility and range of motion, and alleviate symptoms of autoimmune diseases such as Fibromyalgia and Rheumatoid arthritis.

Reduces Stress and Anxiety

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Massage therapy can be effective for stress relief. Adding hot stones to your session takes it a step further. The combination of heat and pressure releases a hormone called endorphins, which is responsible for reducing stress and improving your mood.

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Promotes Sleep Massage is thought to help you enjoy more restorative sleep, although it’s not completely understood why, but getting a back rub helps promote relaxation and sleep. Hot stones can increase your melatonin (sleep hormone) production since the stones deeply enhance the body’s relaxation response.

There are other benefits, such as decreasing cancer symptoms and boosting your immunity. However, you must also consider the contradictions as well. If you experience loss of sensation, take certain medications, have a skin condition, or just recently had surgery, getting a Hot Stone Massage might not be the ideal therapy for you. Be sure to consult with your doctor first if you have any medical condition(s) that make you unsure if this therapy will benefit your well-being. h

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Denise Lee Broom Brush Tea Co.

By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by Denise Lee

Denise Lee of Phoenix, AZ, knew as a young girl what her purpose in life would involve: Teas. She says, “Teas were my purpose all along; I just didn’t know. As a young girl, my mom had her garden, and I loved rushing home from school to see what was growing. I have always loved plants, and when my hands are in the dirt, it’s a connection that feels right.”

Denise is the daughter of Carrie Hamilton (Parker) and was given a gift from an ancestor to create herbal medicine. As a child, she attended Jorgenson Elementary and grew up in South Phoenix. In her mother’s garden, Denise developed a love of plants and teas.

Today, Denise is the owner of Broom Brush Teas. “The name Broom Bush is mentioned in Ezekiel in the bible. If you read Bush Medicine of the Bahamas, you will learn about this bush. Another name for this herb in the Bahamas is seaside thyme. They use the leafy stems or the entire plant. The Broom Bush is used to cure jaundice and failed liver. It also must be administered by a Bush Doctor,” she says. “I don’t use this in any of my teas, but my dream is to become a master Bush Doctor and work with this bush.

It’s very powerful.”

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With her company, Denise offers consultations regarding herbal teas to aid in the body’s ability to heal itself from different alignments. She also sells herbal teas for individuals who choose a holistic lifestyle. “The first tea that I created was the Khealing Tea. It was during the onset of Covid 19. It was very effective and sought after during that period mainly due to the 43 immunity-boosting herbs it possesses,” she says.

Building her business has been challenging, and having the capital to sustain its growth is one that Denise has faced head-on. Still, she is resilient and committed to helping others with her teas. Her advice to other aspiring entrepreneurs is to start by structuring your business properly, studying long and hard, and ensuring you are committed to your work. Even when the money isn’t there, you have to love what you’re doing.

The journey of starting her company began for Denise many years ago. It was in 2014 and was during that time that her mother passed away. Denise and her siblings were cleaning out her mom’s home when they came across a book filled with herbs. Denise chose to read it.

“When COVID hit, something told me to get that book. I took all the herbs that support immunity and created the Khealing Tea. I passed this tea out to family and friends.

A family member had a friend get sick, and she dropped the tea at the doorstep of their home. The family took the tea and was over COVID in four days. They later called me because their aunt ended up in the hospital with COVID. They took the tea to the hospital and gave it to her daily, and she was home by the end of the week.

Later, someone posted my address on Facebook, calling my tea the COVID Killer, and people started coming to my house for it. I later asked if they could take my address down and meet me at the Laveen Farmers Market to get the tea. At this point, I didn’t have a business; I was only selling the Khealing Tea for $15. I didn’t understand that making it cost me more than $15, so I was losing money. The tea was selling so fast, and I called my sister and asked her for money. She wanted to know if what I was doing was a hobby or a business.

If I would make it a business, she would help, and that is how I started Broom Bush Tea,” Denise says.

Looking ahead, Denise dreams of making her teas accessible to others in stores such as Sprouts. “I have a dream to get my teas in Sprouts, even if it’s just the Sprouts in my neighborhood,” she says. “I would also like to get my teas in other stores such as AJ’s, Walgreens, and CVS. More than anything, I plan to continue to listen to my community and provide highquality products to support a healthy lifestyle,” she says.

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Denise shares that her teas are designed for the person who is sick of the adverse side effects of medicine and is willing to lose weight, eat better, exercise, and drink herbal teas. “My teas are created to inspire the healing journey, giving the power back to the person and the earth,” she says.

When asked what she loves most about what she does, Denise says it is being available for her customers.

“I love it when my customers visit the Farmers Market and share their healing stories with me after taking my teas. Sometimes, I am amazed by how fast they work.

I recall one customer whose husband previously had testicle cancer. She had been trying to have another baby with her husband for years without success. The doctors said her husband’s sperm count was low and IVF would be the route path to take. I sold them my “His All Nighter Tea” and “IVF Tea”. The customer came back to the market three months later and shared they were expecting. I was in shock that the teas worked that fast.

God gives us plants that have been on the Earth longer than man. Plants heal and they heal quickly. Like a dying plant, if you give it water and sunlight, it will sprout a green leaf out of nowhere, healing itself and bringing new leaves quickly,” Denise says.

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Broom Brush Tea Co. www.broombushtea.com 602-250-0177

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Pastor

Valley Brook Outreach Baptist Church “I See Ministry As An Opportunity to Impact The Lives of Members of My Community”

By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by Pastor Curtis L. Johnson Everyone has a story. Our lives are made of the roads we’ve traveled, many of which are full of twists and turns, with a few peaks and valleys. Some are littered with pitfalls and obstacles, strategically placed to slow our progress or ultimately stop us. For Greenville, SC, native Curtis Johnson, the story of his life is no different.

As the pastor of Valley Brook Outreach Baptist Church located in Pelzer, SC, Pastor Curtis Johnson says his focus is to lead lost souls to God and make an impression on the world that is pleasing in the eyes of God. “I am a man with a genuine desire to please God who strives to uplift my people. I see ministry as an opportunity to impact the lives of members of my community. I give myself to make that happen in any capacity that I can,” he says.

Currently residing in Mauldin, SC, Pastor Curtis Johnson graduated from JL Mann High School. After high school, he enlisted in the United States Air Force and served four years before returning home to fulfill his true calling. Pastor Johnson later attended Morris College School of Religion Greenville Extension, and North Grenville University. He earned his Master of Divinity Degree from the M. Christopher White School of Divinity at Gardner-Webb University.

He has been married to Charla for 34 years, and they share two sons, Isiah and Joshua. He has served as Senior Pastor of the Valley Brook Outreach Baptist Church Church since 1993. “Our vision is summed up in the acronym I.M.P.A.C.T., which stands for “Innovate Ministries for Personal and Community Transformation,” he says. “Our ministry is truly about life application. We help individuals advance socially, spiritually, financially, and economically, regardless of their stage of life.” He is also a former S.C. State Overseer for the Full Gospel Baptist Church Fellowship.

Pastor Johnson is a “Preacher’s Grandkid”. His father was his grandfather’s chairman of Deacons, and his mother was the musician for the church. The church was birthed while sitting around his grandparent’s kitchen table in 1987. This happened around the time when Pastor Johnson was still in the Air Force, and while he was deciding to reenlist for another four years, he made the choice to come back to South Carolina and help his family with their ministry. “It was then, in 1990, that I felt the call into ministry and preached my first sermon on August 12th of that year,” he says. After preaching for a few years, Pastor Johnson says his grandfather was getting up in age, so he turned the ministry over to him in 1993, and in May of last year, he celebrated 30 years of preaching the gospel of God. Pastor Johnson says the journey of preaching over the last 30 years has given him an extensive perspective of what ministry could be about and its potential impact locally and internationally. His journey has also come with some things that Pastor Johnson didn’t see coming. In February of last year, he suffered a major heart attack and needed emergency heart surgery. “I didn’t know I was having a heart attack. I had been dealing with some intense heartburn for a few days and decided to visit an urgent care facility to get something to help with it. While there, they called the ambulance, and I was transported to a hospital. I was taken to pre-op and taken into emergency surgery. They told me I was actively having a heart attack, and I couldn’t believe it. The level of pain was not very severe, and I didn’t think it was that serious, yet it was. I now encourage men to visit their doctors and get regular checkups,” he says.

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“I am a man with a genuine desire to please God who strives to uplift my people.”

With therapy and treatment, Pastor Johnson would fully recover from the heart attack he suffered in February. However, life would continue to happen for him. In July of last year, he was diagnosed with Aggressive Prostate Cancer and was told that he needed to have surgery immediately. In August, the surgery was successfully performed, and all of the cancer cells were removed. “Had I not had myself checked out, I very well have missed what was going on with me, but I paid attention, and by the grace of God, I am still here,” he says. “Not only have I fully recovered from my heart attack, I am 100% cancer-free. I am absolutely blessed. Being able to be here with my family, I give God all of the glory and praise for that.”

Pastor Johnson is known as a Change Agent in his community and shares that he feels his ministry can make life better for others. “I am a problem solver. I love making a difference and helping people. I also love creating a different culture and environment in our community,” he says. Pastor Johnson is a Community Activist, Social Justice Advocate and is a contracted NonViolence365 employee for the King Center for Nonviolent Social Change in Atlanta, GA, under the leadership of Dr Bernice King. He has been a strategic partner in establishing long-term relationships between The King Center and both the NFL and the American Red Cross. He is an active member of the Disaster Services Department of the Full Gospel Baptist Church Fellowship International under the leadership of Bishop LaTresa Jester. Additionally, Pastor Johnson has produced projects in the Upstate Community to address social issues that relate to race, violence, diversity, and more.

Pastor Johnson credits his grandfather with shaping his life into what it is today. He also credits the late Dr Myles Munroe for helping him understand the kingdom of God. When Pastor Johnson became a part of the Full Gospel Baptist Fellowship, he became connected with the late Bishop Eddie Long, and Pastor Johnson credits him for helping him to see what the church could do more beyond their walls. He also appreciates the ministry of Bishop TD Jakes of The Potter’s House Church in Dallas, TX, and Bishop Joseph Walker, the presiding Bishop for Full Gospel Baptist Fellowship, for having incredible ministries and programs that have impacted millions of lives. “Now, at age 56, what keeps me going are the solid relationships I have with other pastors and the people we serve. I don’t seek to duplicate other pastors, but instead learn from them,” he says.

As the future unfolds, Pastor Johnson plans to continue to be a willing vessel for God. When Valley Brook Outreach Baptist Church came about in 1987, they were in a small building that held about 100 people. In 1993, he took over as pastor, and in 1999, the church bought 25 acres of land to build a new church, and it successfully opened its doors of their bigger facility in 2001. It currently seats between 800 - 1000 people, while only utilizing 10 acres of the land that was purchased. As the shepherd and visionary of Valley Brook Outreach Baptist Church, he is leading the way in building a multi-unit housing development on 10 of the remaining available acres. “I want to get families out of the streets and create solutions to homelessness.”

To learn more about Pastor Curtis Johnson and Valley Brook Outreach Baptist Church, please visit their website. h

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Adam Harris

By Sherry Rogers Photos Provided by Adam Harris Adam Harris walks the earth sowing seeds of kindness.

Professionally, he is the director of the federally funded Trio Upward Bound program. The program is designed to assist and prepare students in underserved communities for college. Beyond his work life, Adam is a three-time published author, penning his first book, A Heart to Give: A Journal of Transformation, at age 21. Since then, he has written Adams L.A.W. Lessons Along the Way and One Michigan Moment in T.I.M.E. Adam is also a well-soughtafter motivational speaker and a community organizer.

This servant leader is intentional in his pursuit to serve “the least of these”, a mantra he adapted from his father and a practice his parents consistently demonstrated.

“Serving others is more than what I do. It is who I am.”

Originally from Southfield, MI, Adam is the youngest child born to ministers Allen and Sylvia Harris. At the age of four, he served alongside his parents at their former church, The World Church of God Mission. The storefront church, located on Mack Avenue in downtown Detroit, operated as an empowerment zone for people to receive immediate assistance through donations or by connecting them to specific resources. Adam laughs as he recalls his family’s daily routine. “After school, my siblings and I would have about an hour to finish our homework, and then we left to go and serve. This was our daily schedule, not just what we did on Sundays but every day.” In addition to passing out clothing and serving hot meals to thousands in the Detroit area, their church provided a space where the community could be heard and families received prayer.

“After school, my siblings and I would have about an hour to finish our homework, and then we left to go and serve.

This was our daily schedule, not just what we did on Sundays but every day.”

The normalcy of Adam’s childhood sadly ended when, at the age of 11, he experienced the death of his father.

The loss caused him extreme grief. “Losing my dad at such an early age was traumatic. It made me view life through a different lens,” he shares.

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As Adam continued to work through his grief, he was introduced to his band teacher, Mr. Randy Scott, who would become Adam’s very first African American male teacher. Adam and Mr. Scott would form a bond that would help Adam through some of the most pivotal moments in his life.

After completing high school, Adam attended the University of Michigan-Dearborn. There, he played basketball and also managed to fuse his love for helping others with the game and organized basketball camps for the youth. Along with the help of his teammates, he combined skills training with college tours and motivational experiences. “We wanted to show the campers that although we were college athletes, we cared about their futures,” Adam says.

During his senior year, Adam created the service organization “SWOT”, Students Working Onward Together. With the assistance of over 100 college students, he provided community outreach for individuals in the metro Detroit area. During this time, Adam also worked as an intern at United Way. In 2008, he brought the alternative spring break program to Detroit for outreach within marginalized communities. It was the first time that a service initiative was introduced to an area such as Detroit. This concept would eventually take on a life of its own and has since expanded all over the United States, thanks to Adam.

With his heart to serve and love for people, Adam has inspired many others. He humbly contends that he is merely passing on what has been poured into him. In addition to his parents, Adam proudly speaks of the strong group of mentors who have encouraged him throughout his life journey. Besides Randy Scott, an international jazz recording artist, Adam’s circle of inspiration includes civil rights activist Dr. Gloria House, Dr. Glenn McIntosh, Senior VP & Chief Diversity Officer, and Dr. Tyrone Bledsoe, the founder of the Student African American Brotherhood. “They all continue the cultivation of who I am today. They spoke life within me and would not allow me to do anything in deviation of what they saw in me,’’ he says. Adam’s appreciation is genuine, and he has also publicly honored each one by presenting them with Guiding Light Awards.

www.iamadamharris.com

So what’s next for this young visionary? He says, “I am looking forward to marrying my fiance, Sharnese Marshall, in August. I am also working on several book projects and devoting time to working on my brother’s legacy, the late Abraham Harris. He served his community by adopting local elementary schools and providing toys for every student in those schools for the last seven years, and I want others to continue to benefit from his efforts”.

A quote by Rober Schuller says, “Find the need and fill it. Find a hurt and heal it and find a problem and solve it.”

This quote resonates with Adam, and he adds, “I just want to serve at a level that pleases God.” h

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I Am She Girls Mentoring

By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by Vanessa R. Caswell Vanessa Caswell-Rodgers of Memphis, TN, is a woman of faith, resilience, and abundant possibilities. She is the founder of I Am She Girls Mentoring, a nonprofit organization that assists young girls between the ages of (8-18) in achieving their best despite challenges they may face. Her organization also helps these young ladies deal with childhood trauma, drug abuse, peer pressure, homelessness, and low self-esteem. I Am She Girls Mentoring partners with other organizations and schools (including principals and counselors) to provide the best plan that meets the needs of the youth.

Presently, Vanessa mentors students and works with three schools in the Frayser community of Memphis.

“I Am She mentors young women by reminding all Queens who they are and how to display and portray the beauty within,” Vanessa says. “We offer various classes and workshops, including etiquette, self-esteem, self-confidence, and character building. Furthermore, we help our Queens set goals and discover their purpose.”

Vanessa was raised by her grandparents in what she describes as a large family setting.

Family is essential to Vanessa. She is the sibling of a twin sister and has many other brothers and sisters. She shares her life with her husband, Eric Rogers.

Vanessa graduated from Memphis Tech High School in 1985. She also completed her studies at Stage One Hair School, Shelby State College, and Tennessee State University. She is also a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority.

Serving her community is something that Vanessa is honored to do, and she accepts it with a great deal of responsibility. She shares, “I started serving my community in 2017 by working with my brother’s organization, Legacy Of Legends. I helped by providing wrap-around services to many children and their families.

From then on, I’ve been serving and supporting other nonprofit organizations.”

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Vanessa says, “I founded I Am She after realizing my passion and purpose for mentoring women in navigating difficult situations and pushing them to pursue their dreams and goals. I was once a woman with low self-esteem, but I learned to overcome my obstacles, stand tall, and tell my story while inspiring others.”

While Vanessa serves as the Executive Director, the success of I Am She Girls Mentoring Memphis is made possible with the dedication of team members including Tiara Caswell, Allyson Jackson, Valerie Dodson, Mary Jones, Sharon Walker, Betty Lewis, Sylvia Walker, Eric Rodgers, Serita Harris, Miesha Yelder, Maudie Wilson, and Lakevia Henderson, a Junior Mentor. The Board Members of I Am She are Alfred Garrett, Elaine Baldwin, Janet Keys, Tamera Walker Tuggle, Lora Fowler, Jim Ward, and Angela Ellis.

More than anything, what Vanessa says she loves most about what she does is observing lives transformed by way of her organization. She states she is inspired by the opportunity to love on broken young ladies and help them become the best version of themselves. “Following in the footsteps of my young brother, who went from being a typical young man to becoming a family man and man of God, has impacted my life more than anything,” Vanessa said.

It is obvious Vanessa has a huge heart to serve. Leading a nonprofit that focuses on meeting the needs of young girls requires compassion and patience. Being available for others is essential and is something Vanessa had to learn to balance. “I often am asked to help, but I had to learn that saying no is OK,” she says. “My advice to others who may follow in my footsteps is to have patience and faith and surround yourself with like-minded individuals.”

Moving forward, Vanessa says she plans to continue growing her program and acquire transportation vans. Having these vehicles will allow the young ladies she serves to see other areas out of their environment and expose them to life-changing events. To learn more about I Am She Girls Mentoring, please visit their website. h

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“Twant me, ‘twas the Lord. I always told him, ‘I trust to you. I don’t know where to go or what to do, but I expect you to lead me,’ and He always did.”

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Mecca Causey The son of Ryan Causey and Nijalon Jackson-Causey

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