Huami Magazine for Milwaukee July/August 2021 by Terry Watson

M I LWAU K E E

July/August 2021 Volume 1 Issue 3

Ray Resources LLC Milwaukee - July/August 2021

HuamiMagazine.com

For advertising information, please call 336-340-7844 www.huamimagazine.com

Exclusive Specs for Men and Women Eyewear is the number one accessory that people buy to coordinate with their dress attire, both casual and formal.

- unisex -

Our Custom Wooden Eyewear can be engraved with your personal touch. We also have acetate specs. We also accept Flex-Spending (FSA & HSA) Lady E Specs are designed with (you) the customer in mind. You can look fashionable in the Zoom Room and the Board Room

Dr. Erika Hendrix Owner/Founder

shop@ladyespecs.com

www.ladyespecs.com

336-303-9814 FB-LadyE_Specs IG-lady_especs

Understanding The Power of Your Influence A Letter From The Editor Now that I am many years settled into fatherhood, I sometimes reminisce on those precious moments when my son was only a baby. Though small and quite fragile, I wanted to make him tough and brawn, selfishly hoping that he would live out the hopes and dreams that I had for my life. That is what dads do, or at least I think they do. My son would eventually A Letter themy Editor grow up right from before eyes to be a very grown man, which I am quite proud of. Still, I reminded of his dependence on me and his mother for everything while he was a child and our responsibility to understand and What if tomorrow didn’t arrive? All of your plans, hopes provide for his needs.

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

and dreams wouldn’t have a street to park on. What if

As a everything baby and not yetyou abledecided to formto words, myuntil son cried and made other that put off tomorrow never baby sounds when There he wanted to be let no us know hetowas hungry. When his happened? would reason save for a rainy diaperday, was and wet,you he didn’t [dad, I am wet]; It was my couldsay spare someone theinstead, troubleheofcried. making duty topromises. determineWhat his need andlast translate the information heexpired was trying if your opportunity seemingly to share. Thank God would I was able today? What youto, do?and my son was fed and cared for. Though I can only imagine how difficult it would have been for him had I ignored his cries or was to understand I’ve been toldunable that I often seem likethem. I do too much.

Honestly, I feel like I am not doing enough and I’m a firm

As adults and not babies, our methods of communicating our pains, believer in knowing that God wouldn’t put anything on me wants, and needs aren’t generally boggled into a baby’s cry. However, that I couldn’t handle. I sometimes wonder how life would it doesn’t mean that we are not crying. When we become prideful and be if I chose to sit idle and accept what it presented to me. I shamed, it can be difficult to express what is truly hurting us, which that to be very opinion, causeshave us tofound internalize these issuesboring. and notInletmy them out. opportunity

is a blessing that isn’t afforded to everyone. A challenge to God me isblesses an adventure. What is the worst that can happen? When His children to be a well or source for others, it If I do nothing, if I try I don’t, insteadthere learnis power often comes with someI fail, formand of influence. Withbut influence, something new about myself. your pridethe and in and the ability to impact someone’s life.Relinquish Not understanding power acquire of yourreturn influence is justlife. as careless as someone who is driving a car at 100 miles per hour with their eyes closed.

The best advice ever given to me happened when someone Influence attracts the my interest of others. Because influence is often told me to make tomorrow happen today. In doing so associated with power, it oftentimes attracts weakness. What I am I have pressed my way through doors with a key that only trying hope to share; If someone is treating you wrong you feel like you are provided. I have also learned the difference between being “hated on”, it might mean that person is actually crying outwith and what God blesses me with and what life can burden me cannot convey what’s hurting them. as well. I compare it to knowing when to be confident and As Christians, we can’t cries. when to beignore quiet,these because We should listen with hearts and seek someone mayour get it confused God’s instruction on how to respond. with being arrogant. If you are in a position of influence, fill Make you tomorrow yourself with the love of God on a daily happen but most basis. I was able today, to determine what my importantly make it count. son’s needs were only because I loved Lifelove is but a whisper and him. God’s gives us power and the we must put ourselves inpains a ability to understand the cries and position to hear what it is of others.

www.huamimagazine.com Terry L. Watson

Publisher

www.huamimagazine.com Teyah Glenn Editor In Chief Writer Terry L. Watson Writer Ellen Richardson Alana Allen - Deputy Editor Gamal Williams Writer Dorjae’ McClammey Writer Writers

Tonya Dixon Seawards Dawson Terry L. Watson Photographer Santana B Alana Allen Photographer Tamara Smith JC Cormin Jeuron Dove Photographer Photographers Perfect Lenz Photography Todd Youngblood Photography

To Advertise? ShawWant Photography Group Still Shots Photography Send An Email or Call Today

Who Shotya Photography huami.milwaukee@gmail.com (336)340-7844 Layout Howard Gaither Photography

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 Greensboro, NC may be submitted to the editor by 2021 All Rights Reserved 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 2014 All Rights Reserved

telling us.

Terry L. Watson

Terry L. Watson Editor/Founder

On The Cover

Photo by Shaw Photography Group

CONTENTS

JULY/AUGUST 2021

MILWAUKEE

Edmond Law LLC

Alton Edmond

On The Cover

Ray Resources LLC Sen-Soray Johnson

God Did It Again

Tifanie Rudd

Kingdom Step Academy LLC

Chess’Mia James

Huami Magazine Cutest Baby

Asher Grady

Also Featured

Titile Niamke There is something about the herbs, honey, and delicious tea. Learn more about the owner of The Tea Bar 901. Memphis, TN

Eric Watson Meet the Deputy County Administrator of Public Safety for Charleston. Charleston, SC

Milwaukee - July/August 2021

Vanessa Butler Learn how she overcame her own battles and is now helping others succeed. Columbus, OH

HuamiMagazine.com

20 5

HuamiMagazine.com

Milwaukee - July/August 2021

Ray Resources LLC Bringing Resources Foward By Dorjae McClammey Photos by Sen-Soray Johnson

She is Sen-Soray Johnson or Ray for short. This ambitious, always thinking “outside the box” businesswoman is also the founder and CEO of Ray’s Resources, LLC. On the surface, her company is a staffing agency whose focus is to pair qualified candidates with employment opportunities throughout the City of Milwaukee, Wisconsin. In addition, Ray’s Resources provides support and exceptional customer service for candidates seeking employment and companies/ organizations. Created just this year Ray’s Resources was not exactly what Sen-Soray dreamt of when she first started. She even had second thoughts about launching a business and shares, “I was going to focus mainly on resume writing, job training, and job etiquette. However, when I partnered with another amazing organization, Brittney Blackmon and Geneva Byrd of B&B Consultants, Ray’s Resources was elevated to another level.” B&B assisted Ray with placing CBRF’s, CNA’s, and Directors, Lead Teachers, Clerical Workers, Bartenders, Security Guards, and more. They even helped aspiring entrepreneurs with getting their businesses off the ground. When asked what inspired her to start Ray’s Resources, she stated, “I’m trying to help our community as much as I can. I noticed a lack of tools and resources for the younger generation in the City of Milwaukee. There was a void in the simple things, such as teaching them the fundamentals like essential job skills such as resume writing, job etiquette, financial literacy, and professionalism. “I felt like this was something we all needed; working together is our culture, and by doing so, we can create jobs and ensure our families are taken care of as well.”

Ray prides herself on being well-rounded and diverse. Ray’s Resources provide a long list of opportunities for clients between the ages of 18 and 64. Through their partnership with Generation of Excellence and Latanya Baker, they can offer training to their clients in the areas of teacher training, childcare, warehouse, welding, and engineering, along with CBRF and CNA. “Bringing resources forward” is Ray’s motto, and it describes what she loves most about her company. She wants to ensure her community is aware of the programs and services that exist. “I am committed to meeting the needs of others, whether directly or as a conduit to someone who can meet their needs,” she shares Ray believes that some people are not working, possibly due to a lack of support and access to necessary information. This is why she informs everyone in the community she meets about the available essential resources. Among her many accomplishments, she states her proudest one is finally opening her own office space located at 6633 West Mill Road. This center includes other business owners that help other entrepreneurs and is also where Ray’s Resources hosts its training. “I love being surrounded by so many positive women and men who all have the same focus, healing our community, stopping the violence that surrounds them, and providing the youth with better education and job training opportunities,” Ray says.

“I love being surrounded by so many positive women and men who all have the same focus, healing our community, stopping the violence that surrounds them, and providing the youth with better education and job training opportunities.”

When asked what her testimony is, she stated, “I finally found my niche. I have been surrounded by so many people who have their own businesses, from cooks to chefs to hairstylists and nail technicians, welders, plumbers, you name it. I always felt like I was being left behind because I didn’t know what my calling was. I had to stop and sit down with myself to see exactly what I was good at. I learned that I was good at resourcing and helping people find certain things.” This year was my time to reflect on myself, to learn, grow and find myself along the way. I feel that I have finally found my purpose.” This year was my time to reflect on myself, to learn and grow, and find myself along the way. I feel that I’ve finally found my purpose.” As for what the future holds for Ray’s Resources, the owner plans on building better contracts with the inner city, including hospitals, healthcare facilities, local daycares, and schools. Ray also plans on offering transportation and uniforms for her employees. She says, “for those who don’t have a vehicle at the time, we can pick them up and drop them off at their job sites.” Of course, we would all love to see Ray’s Resources grow to a larger scale, but at the moment, she wants to keep her focus in Milwaukee.

Ray Resources LLC 414-795-8772 8

MAGAZINE

Cutest Baby

Asher Grady The son of Jessica and Justyn Grady

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

Milwaukee - July/August 2021

HuamiMagazine.com

Milwaukee - July/August 2021

Edmond Law LLC Not Every Superhero Wears a Cape By Ellen Richardson Photos by Michael Robinson

One of the most talented attorneys in the state of Florida is not your average superhero. Alton Edmond, Owner and Founder of Edmond Law LLC, knew from the time that he was five years of age that he wanted to be a lawyer. “Since I was 5 years old, I knew that I wanted to be an attorney, which was not going to be easy since I was a kid growing up in the projects of Harlem, Florida, who lived with a single mother on a fixed income,” said Edmond. For this dream to become a reality, this real-life superhero would have to break all his family’s generational curses and even disregard the surroundings that he was raised in to achieve what some may consider the inconceivable. “I have to admit that pursuing this path was not easy at the beginning, but after a high school guidance counselor told me that I would never be a lawyer I made the decision that I was not going to let anyone, or anything stop me from being what I wanted to be.” As he continued to stay focused on this dream, Edmond would find himself at the University of Florida and eventually Florida A & M College of Law where he became inspired by the many African American professionals who made this University what it is. “When I went to law school I faced a culture shock because when I went to the University of Florida I only had three black professors, but when I got to law school I was taught by people of color from Ivy League colleges and all over the nation. This was one of the first times in my life that I could walk onto a campus and be inspired by black professionals and black excellence, which gave me the realization that I could also be an inspiring professional for other black youth,” he said with a twinkle in his eye.

Milwaukee - July/August 2021

HuamiMagazine.com

After graduating from law school and passing the Florida Bar Exam on his first attempt, Edmond would begin to see his childhood dream come true. “After becoming a fully licensed attorney I wanted to become involved in criminal law because I came from a very poor, minority community and there were many things that I witnessed that I did not feel were right when it came to the criminal justice system, so I wanted to do my part to help make a change,” said the future superhero. Using his desire to work as an attorney who could inspire a change on a state level, Edmond would attempt to return to the place where he served as a law school legal intern to become a prosecutor. “The funny thing is the Florida State Attorney’s office in Orlando, Florida wouldn’t even interview me the first go around,” he said. “It wasn’t until I had obtained a job already that I was interviewed by the Brevard County state attorney’s office.” Although he would not be hired at this office or in the position that he had planned, God’s new plan would give Edmond the opportunity to serve as a defense attorney. As his new path would emerge, Edmond would begin to serve as an associate defense attorney for two law firms before becoming an assistant public defender for the Ninth Judicial Circuit Court of Florida. “I loved this job but was let go after wearing a Black Lives Matter necktie, which my boss thought was a political statement instead of a human rights issue,” he said. Although this would seem like a setback to most, this opportunity became a step up for the man who would not let anything stop him from achieving his dream. “Two days after I lost my job I started my own law firm.” Founded in Black History Month of 2017 Edmond Law, LLC offers criminal litigation, juvenile delinquency, criminal traffic violation, business/contract law and even the preparation of last will and testaments. “I became an attorney because I wanted to become an advocate for people that cannot advocate on their own and I wanted to be the voice for the voiceless people of society, and this is exactly what I built this firm to become,” said Edmond. In his efforts to inspire others to empower others to achieve their own personal goals, this defender of people and voice for the voiceless also took this time to expand a motivational speaker, workshop, and events organization that he began after graduating from law school. “Edmond Inspiration, LLC was founded with the goal to motivate others to overcome what holds them back,” said Edmond. Whether this involves poverty, bullying, low self-esteem, racism, and many other forms of adversity, I speak and hold workshops to provide the hope that people need to hear.” Despite starting this as a for profit company, Edmond is now turning this into a non-profit organization that assists children from his hometown of Harlem, as well as children from Emma Jewel Charter Academy, in Cocoa, Florida, in obtaining scholarships. “I am on a variety of community boards in Brevard County, FL, but the one that is the nearest and dearest to my heart is Emma Jewel Charter Academy, which is a charter school that was established in one of the poorest areas of Brevard County. This K-8th grade school takes in children who are failing at other public schools, and we help them not only become educated, but we also support them in other areas where they have been struggling. My goal is to use my speaking company to give a scholarship to one young man and woman who grew up in this school, so that they can go on to college. I also want to help a young man, who is growing up poor in Harlem to go on and achieve his dreams through a good education.”

HuamiMagazine.com

Milwaukee - July/August 2021

As if these efforts to help others were not enough, Florida’s own superhero has also done his part to continue supporting those who are wrongly accused, primarily in the black community. “On June 6, 2020, I helped to organize the largest peaceful human rights protest that had ever taken place in Brevard County,” said Edmond. “The local news reported on this, there were helicopters flying around, but we were blessed to have the FBI, ATF and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement to monitor threats and keep the estimated 50,000 protestors, and other area businesses safe.” Along with holding one of the most successfully peaceful protests of its kind, Edmond also put forth his effort to improve the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office last year. “I became a candidate for Brevard Sheriff in 2020, who was trying to do my part to rectify some of the social justice issues that are going on in this county sheriff’s office. This effort included my efforts to assist this department in locating the funding necessary to install body cameras on deputies that would provide evidence for future court cases.” While Edmond has yet to be elected to the political side of the Brevard County justice system, he is definitely making a difference and we at Huami applaud this superhero. He is an inspiration to us all! h

Alton Edmond Edmond Law LLC

630 Brevard Avenue - Suite B Cocoa, FL 32922 321-285-9505 www.edmondtriallaw.com Milwaukee - July/August 2021

HuamiMagazine.com

The Tea Bar 901 By Terry L. Watson Photos by Titile Niamke

Titile Niamke of Memphis, TN, describes herself as a joyous person. She is a lover of God, a love that she expresses while helping and serving people, and making them happy. The origin of her name, Titile is Ethiopian and means purified, while Niamke is Nigerian and means God’s Gift. She describes herself as a joyous person, a woman that lives with integrity and transparency. “I believe that whatever I consume on this earth, I must replenish it,” she says. She comes from a large family and credits her father with having a significant influence on her life. She recalls a conversation she had with her dad, as he advised her to do whatever she wanted to do with her life. “My told me to not put any limits on my life. While my mother is very driven and stern, and that’s where my discipline comes from,” she says. She is currently pursuing a marketing degree at Middle Tennessee State University. While attending school, she finds time to manage her company The Tea Bar 901. Her company produces teas, honey, and various skincare products that are infused with natural products. Her niche is listening to the needs of her clients and finding natural remedies to meet them.

Continued on the next page

“I had never heard about these things before. I learned that lavender

could help with anxiety, so I made a tea with lavender and was amazed at how it made me feel. I fell in love with the world of teas and

natural healing. I began to wake up happy and eager to take on

whatever life would throw at me. I was no longer depressed or anxious,”

Titile launched The Tea Bar 901 in 2016 while she was a student at MTSU. It all began in her college dorm. While doing some research, she came across a few herbs, such as lavender and camel milk. “I had never heard about these things before. I learned that lavender could help with anxiety, so I made a tea with lavender and was amazed at how it made me feel. I fell in love with the world of teas and natural healing. I began to wake up happy and eager to take on whatever life would throw at me. I was no longer depressed or anxious,” she says. Titile began combining herbs to address different ailments. She was sure not to disrupt the tea’s integrity, so she used honey instead of sugar. She was able to connect with a local Bee Keeper who helped her learn the process of beekeeping. As Titile continued to work with her new “bee” friends, she also developed a love and respect for them. “I am a little nervous while getting honey from their hives. It can be noisy because there are usually thousands of bees moving at the same time. Yet, being able to care for them is a special and rewarding experience. Bee’s pollinate our plants and foods and work hard at doing their job. Understanding the role they play in our ecosystem has made me respect them even more,” she says. Continued on the next page

Milwaukee - July/August 2021

HuamiMagazine.com

Milwaukee - July/August 2021

The original name of The Tea Bar 901 was Divinity which means “of, from, or like God”. She shares that she named the company Divinity, because she believes tea and herbs are from God” Also, in the beginning, she wasn’t making a profit. She shares how she conducted more promotions and demonstrations than sales transactions. Now, The Tea Bar 901 is quickly becoming a recognized brand at local farmer markets and pop-ups in and around the Memphis community. Her next focus to increase the online presence for The Tea Bar 901, making her products accessible to anyone around the globe. Some of the products sold by The Tea Bar 901 are raw and unfiltered honey, ginger honey, lavender honey, turmeric honey, herbal teas, bottled teas, flavored sea moss, natural skincare products made with natural products, and herbal oils. Titile says helping others is what she loves most about her business. “Entrepreneurship is only a business entity, but not every business is designed to help other people. I understand that I can help others live a better life with the usage of my products,” she says. Moving forward, Titile plans to continue to allow God to lead and guide her steps. She is also excited about introducing new products and making The Tea Bar 901 a household name. To learn more about Titile and her company, please visit their website. h

www.theteabar901.com 901-831-4501 Milwaukee - July/August 2021

HuamiMagazine.com

Milwaukee - July/August 2021

Vanessa &

Vatina By Dorjae McClammey Photos by CJ Coman

Everything is made with love. Vanessa Williams Butler is the CEO of Lady VWB Nature LLC, an all-natural skincare line that’s formulated in Columbus, OH. Along with her daughter and business partner, Vatina, Vanessa is positioning her company for success. Lady VWB provides an endless amount of products for everybody, such as bath bombs, body scrubs, handmade lotions, body butter, and new oatmeal, a honey milk bath mix that will leave the body feeling soft. There is also an acne cleanser that fights inflammation and dark marks and a clay mask that can be used on both the face and skin. Lady VWB also provides a supreme facial serum made for brightening and tightening, along with hair oil, hair masks, and anti-cellulite cream/oil. There is also a men’s collection that includes a natural beard and mustache oil and wave styling balm. Growing up, Vanessa dealt with terrible skin. After speaking with several doctors, she started to conduct her own research and eventually created a line of skincare products. Vanessa saw remarkable progress and has been using her products for over nine years with amazing results. With her newfound skills and 22 years of experience in hospitality and management, Vanessa has successfully created her own natural skincare business.. “Our mission at Lady VWB Nature is to make sure we are spreading knowledge with recommendations of adapting to a routine format for your life. We want to ensure our clients know how to properly use natural products that have wound healing properties and great health benefits,” she says. Vanessa’s products will not affect the Ph balance. Her products are wonderful for all skin types and can help heal things such as psoriasis and eczema. They have a pleasant, clean smell and feel great on the skin, and help with an endless amount of skin conditions from rashes, psoriasis, eczema, discoloration, and much more. The shelf life for Lady VWB products is a respectful two years.

When asked what she loves most about her company Vanessa credits her daughter Vatina, who helps her create just about every product she sells. She plans to teach Vatina everything so that the business will be passed down to her one day, resulting in generational wealth. Vanessa is also an all-around problem solver. “I like being put on the spot to assist with resolving the issue and ensuring our customers are satisfied. That makes me feel like I’m doing my job,” she says. All the wonderful customers and other entrepreneurs she’s met throughout her journey is what motivates her to keep going. One client even sent her a “before and after” picture, and it almost had her in tears. She was so proud of her work and the results it gave. Yet, of course, all great businesses come with some challenges. Because of the Corona Virus pandemic, a few of her ingredients now take longer to ship, which caused somewhat of an issue. Yet even with the minor shipping glitch, she has still made an abundance of products to supply their pop shops and meet turnaround time quotas. Vanessa also had to come to terms with the fact that she won’t please everyone, especially those looking for an overnight miracle cream. She shares Lady V products are designed to help customers adapt to a routine. “Our motto is nothing will work if you don’t work.” Despite all of the trials and tribulations, Lady VWB still has many rewarding moments. Even though they just started production in October of 2020, they already see a promising profit early on. Vanessa is also proud of how her presence has grown with other entrepreneur vendors, “We have been networking with other vendors as well receiving so much support for every which way.” When asked what her testimony is she stated, “I live a more simple and minimalistic life. Something I’ve always wanted to do was learn why I’ve suffered for so many years with cystic acne and eczema. I finally feel like I’ve come up with a breakthrough, something that works for me. Most importantly, I trusted the process, and I didn’t stop. I was consistent, and I wanted to share this with the world.” In regards to the future, Vanessa plans on advancing by continuing to build her business, teaching her daughter herbalism, chemistry, entrepreneurship, and growing generational wealth.

Lady VWB Nature www.ladyvwbnature.com 22

Milwaukee - July/August 2021

HuamiMagazine.com

Deputy County Administrator of Public Safety 24

HuamiMagazine.com

Milwaukee - July/August 2021

By Gamal Williams Photos by Calvin A. Brown

A young man is hanging out in his neighborhood with some friends. The group are approached by two officers, and what started as a calm conversation, quickly turned hostile. One of the officers told the group to leave the area and go home. The teenager informed the police that he and his friends were in their neighborhood already, then pointed to his home just a few houses away from where they stood. He told the officer that was where he lived. It was to no avail. The boy complied and began to leave, yet as he passed the officer, the officer began to harass him. The officer accosted and grabbed him, then slammed him to the ground despite protests from neighbors and his mother as she ran screaming towards the situation. The boy was arrested for disobeying an officer, fingerprinted, and pushed through the court system, before all charges were later dropped and his record expunged. During his 27 years in law enforcement, Eric Watson, the former Charleston County South Carolina Deputy Sheriff’s Office Deputy Chief of Operation, fought against occurrences like the one above. After college, Eric began his law enforcement career as a Detentions Deputy at the Sheriff Al Cannon Detention Center in North Charleston, SC. After three years in corrections, he received a lateral transfer to become a Deputy Sheriff for the Charleston County Sheriff’s Office. With tours as a patrol deputy, a detective in the Criminal Investigations Division, patrol supervisor, the Office of Professional Standards, and Sheriff’s Office spokesperson along the way, Eric rose to the rank of Chief Deputy of Operations, one of the highest command positions in the Sheriff’s Office. Stories of unjust arrests are all too familiar within the African-American community. There are far too few stories like Eric Watson, a Black man holding one of the most powerful positions within law enforcement. Yet the first story is what motivates Eric Watson. Why? Eric Watson was that boy. “When I was arrested, they didn’t even tell me what I was arrested for. I didn’t find out the charge until we got to the station,” recalls Eric. “The worst part was, there were two Officers; one was White, the other was Black. The Black Officer started teasing me when I was in the back of the police cruiser crying, saying ‘look at the little baby cry.’ When we got to the station, I challenged the Black officer and protested that I was arrested on a bogus charge. When he asked where I actually lived, I showed him my I.D. I lived at 18A Washington Street, and they arrested me on Washington Street. He knew he was wrong, but they threw me in jail anyway.” Eric defines the incident as pivotal, not just because he was arrested on a false charge, but because while he sat in the police cruiser, he heard the real reason why he was in handcuffs and on his way to the police station.

Milwaukee - July/August 2021

HuamiMagazine.com

Milwaukee - July/August 2021

HuamiMagazine.com

“While we were enroute to the station, the Black Officer asked his partner ‘what happened back there?’ The White Officer responded, ‘I don’t know, I just snapped.’ It was in that moment I decided that this (becoming a cop) was what I wanted to do. I needed to know what they knew and what gave them the right to just take someone’s freedom unjustly. I used that to motivate me.” “Being a Black Officer anywhere in this country, we bring a unique approach. I grew up in the projects. I didn’t have access to quality education or real tangible jobs. I grew up in a drug infested, poverty stricken environment,” he explains. “But on the flipside, I am a first generation cop. My mother didn’t want me to join, my family and friends didn’t want me to join. Being a cop, my community looks at me as an outcast, as an individual that took part in an organization that for decades has oppressed our community. But my counterparts in law enforcement don’t see or understand the why: why people are committing these crimes, why they are doing what they are doing.” Eric developed and implemented a mentorship program within the Sheriff’s Department, aimed at new recruits (mostly White), to teach them that it is important for law enforcement to relate to the community, to understand them, and treat them as human beings. New recruits joined Eric at food drives and other community outreach programs. “I told my new recruits that the people that trust us the least, need us the most. It is important that we develop that trust,” Eric proudly stated.

In 2020, Eric was offered a new opportunity: to leave the Sheriff’s Office and create a new directorate as the Charleston County Deputy County Administrator of Public Safety. From his new position, Eric continues his efforts to improve police relations and their attitudes towards the African-American community, and vice versa. He now manages Emergency Management, Emergency Medical Services (EMS), Charleston County 9-1-1 Consolidated Dispatch, and the Awendaw Fire Department. He also serve as a law enforcement liaison for Charleston County Government. One of the innovative ways Eric has deployed his power and vast experience in the field, was to help identify new strategies to deescalate situations where the deployment of police may not be the best course of action. He has also served on multiple nonprofits boards and volunteers his time mentoring youths as a way to give back to the community. This past August, in partnership with the South Carolina Department of Health, Consolidated Dispatch began utilizing mental health counselors in the 9-1-1 call center to identify situations where a mental health professional would be better suited to respond vice the police. Additionally, he procured a $4.4 million budget increase for EMS, allowing for raises, better resources and equipment, and the hiring of additional staff. It’s this type of insight and forward thinking that can give us hope a better relationship between the African-American community, and not only the police, but all state and local emergency services can and will be better. “I didn’t enter this profession to become a millionaire; I entered it to make it (law enforcement) and my community better than when I got into it.” h

HuamiMagazine.com

Milwaukee - July/August 2021

HuamiMagazine.com

Milwaukee - July/August 2021

TifanieRudd God Did It Again By Ellen Richardson Photos by Santana B Photography

When you sit down and think about your career path, can you honestly say that you love what you do? Maybe you are someone who fell on hard times, which led to a criminal record. As a result, you are probably having a difficult time finding a good job. If either of these statements make you stop and think then you have come to the right place. Allow us to introduce you to your fairy godmother – Tifanie Rudd. The Chief Executive Officer of M8D 2 Rise, Inc. uses her God given gift and passion to restore and build the lives and self-esteem of individuals who have challenges in gaining competitive employment. Before becoming a real-life hero for many in her community, this Guilford County native learned at a young age of what was required to survive. “My work ethic is something I inherited from both of my parents. They taught me the importance of working hard. They both became entrepreneurs after years of struggle,” said Rudd. “To say that the struggle was real is an understatement.” Watching her mom work so hard would eventually give rise to this self-professed people lover’s desire to help those in need. While this yearning began with a career in the nursing field, it would not be long before Rudd’s life plan changed. “I was on the job for about a year before I experienced what so many do in the world of advanced careers – envy and hatred for early success,” said the born philanthropist. Despite receiving awards, like employee of the month, Rudd lost her job and, in its place, was given a feeling that many of us might be familiar with – that feeling of losing a purpose. While this often takes many people down, this is where Rudd’s new life would begin. “I have to admit that I did a lot of crying, but before long I decided that I was done crying Fand ready to make my next career move,” said Rudd. After going back to school at Guilford Technical Community College, in 2004, Rudd began to see a crossroads turn into her new path. “After going back to school, I decided to get a degree in Psychology, and before long I was given the opportunity to participate in an internship program. The funny story about this assignment was that I was sent to a company that I really did not want to work for,” she says. Like many confusing assignments that God may send to us, Rudd began to see the purpose for where her Heavenly Father sent her within a few weeks of this assignment. “The assignment was to work with people

Milwaukee - July/August 2021

Continued on the next page

HuamiMagazine.com

with mental illnesses and developmental disabilities and I did everything that I could to get out of this type of work, but this didn’t happen and before long I realized why,” said Rudd. “During my time helping these people I began to find my niche or my calling – to serve the underserved.” As she began to learn the importance of “learning to love people right where they are” and how to become a voice for the voiceless, Rudd said that she could feel her spiritual pathway open right before her. This road would not only keep her working with a company that she was not even sure she wanted to intern for, but would also lead to a bachelor’s degree in Ministry, in 2013, and a master’s degree in Christian Counseling, in 2015, from Grace Christian College. During this time of rising from the ashes, Rudd also had a new life-altering experience that led her to where she is today. “I lost my brother,” said a saddened Rudd. “My brother struggled with crime in his life and he was trying to get out of the streets. He was trying to stop getting into trouble with the law. He strongly desired change, however due to his criminal history, he struggled to sustain livable income and his employment opportunities were very slim. He passed before having an opportunity at a second chance.” Despite losing her brother before helping him find his new path, the woman who was gifted with a spirit to serve began to use her latest loss to develop her own company. Formed in 2011, M8D 2 Rise, Inc. is a supportive employment agency in which individuals with life barriers are assisted with gaining and maintaining competitive employment as well as God’s purpose for their lives. They currently serve multiple counties in North Carolina ncluding Guilford, Rockingham, and Alamance. They will soon begin serving Mecklenburg county. “God is doing it again,” Rudd says. What exactly does this acronym mean? “M is for the Milestones in life, the number 8 is for the new beginnings that we receive each day, the D is for Determination and what should we all be determined to do? TO RISE against all that comes against us and tries to stop us from us from tapping into our inner strength,” said the woman who has risen above all that has tried to stop her from her God given purpose. “When we tap into our inner strength and into the support that is around us the sky is the limit. I started to do this by helping a gentleman who reminded me a lot of my brother. Unfortunately, this young guy served 12 years in federal prison and just wanted a second chance.” Before long Rudd’s newest company, which started in a garage, was helping people all over this community realize that no barrier is too big to use the power inside of you to rise above the circumstances to become all that God has created you to be. According to Rudd, she has continued to become a successful boss lady in a man’s world due to the strength that God has given her as well as two inspirational mentors that never let her give up. “I have been blessed to have two incredible mentors. The first being Rev. Odell Cleveland who has continued to remind me to ‘fly

HuamiMagazine.com

Milwaukee - July/August 2021

higher when people throw attacks at you because people cannot get to an eagle’. The second is Greensboro City Council Member Goldie Wells, who always says ‘not to tell people where you tie your goat’ because when people know how to get to you, they will use this information against you.” As her efforts to help others rise above all that tries to hold them back, Rudd has continued to expand this company to include services like life coaching and even a women’s ministry called M8d 4 H.E.R. Ministry. This born people person is also publishing her first book that is meant to help women learn that they can persevere above everything. The self-published novel entitled When the Tree Moves, will be released to the public in August. Rudd is a mother of three amazing children and blessed to have five beautiful grandchildren. She is also a a certified, spiritual life coach and the founder and executive directive for the nonprofit, M8d 2 Rise Eagles. She has been commissioned as Chair on the Status of Women Board (Women And Violence), and several other boards in Greensboro. h

Tifanie will celebrate her 50 th birthday in July. This is a milestone that confirms that she is only getting started.

To learn more about Tifanie Rudd and M8D 2 Rise Inc., please visit their website.

M8D 2 Rise Inc. 2302 W. Meadowview Road Ste 124 Greensboro, NC 27407 336-907-7268 www.m8d2rise.com Milwaukee - July/August 2021

HuamiMagazine.com

Milwaukee - July/August 2021

Kingdom Step Ahead Academy, LLC By Terry L. Watson Photos by Chess’Mia James

It’s all about the kids for Atlanta, GA resident Chess’Mia James. This loving woman and mother enjoys the very thought of family and strives to live a life pleasing unto God. This is precisely the kind of love and compassion required to lead the young minds she encounters at Kingdom Step Ahead Academy. Also known as KSA, they provide early childhood education for children ages (3-5) in the community of Covington, GA, and surrounding areas. Their curriculum teaches everything from Bible scripture reading, literacy, arts and crafts, early math, social studies, science, green screen videography, and camera presence. “Our mission is to get students a step ahead in their education and prepare them for their future,” James shares. James’ journey of becoming the face of KSA began when she decided to be obedient to what God had called her to do and embrace her educational convictions. “In January of 2019, my Shepherd, Dr. Gabriel Allen Powell, instructed me to leave my occupation at that time. Of course, I did not want to listen because that was my source of income, and I had a one-yearold daughter. So, I told God, “If this is in your will, then you are going to have to show me through someone else that doesn’t know me as well as my shepherd knows me.” The very next day, my co-worker approached me and stated, “I had a dream about you last night, and you were leaving the company”. I cried, but in my obedience, I surrendered and said, “Yes, Lord!” I attained a master’s degree from Central Michigan University in 2018. This educational venture became a highlight for me, as I held a 3.8 GPA and was recognized as Magna Cum Laude. As time passed, I knew there was more for me to do, so I continued to seek God for direction, and He delivered. In February of 2019, I walked away from my job and became a stay-at-home mother,” she shares. KSA was birthed from prayer and meditation. One day, while soaking in God’s presence, James says the idea of starting a preschool fell into her lap. “I heard God so clearly, and I immediately enrolled in school to pursue early childhood education. I enrolled in January 2021, and I completed my certification with honors in May 2021,” she says. Milwaukee - July/August 2021

HuamiMagazine.com

Milwaukee - July/August 2021

I dream big because I know:

Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us. Ephesians 3:20

Her passion for Early Childhood Care Education ignited when she began teaching her toddler educational fundamentals. After discovering this, James’ way of teaching landed her toddler with the ability to recognize numbers, letters, colors, and shapes. By the age of one, she could adequately place them all on the learning boards. Additionally, James has always been intrigued by American Sign Language. To further her interest, she has studied ASL to teach it to her two-yearold. “There are no limitations to learning in my book. Every moment can be a moment of teaching,” she says. Coming from a place of working for someone and now finding herself responsible for the growth and development of children has been life-changing for James. She shares, “My mind is blown away as I know that God handpicked me to build in the kingdom. I am following the will of God in my life, and the fact that God called me to do this job is what keeps me going.” God has made a way for James to impact the lives of others. “I love how I can pour into the little innocent minds of young people and share my lifes experiences. I love to see toddlers get excited, smile, and laugh. It warms my heart. I also like that I can do what I love and have my daughter right beside me.” In the future, her plan is to have one of the largest and most effective academies in the state of Georgia. Her advice to anyone that may follow in her footsteps is t0 keep going, stay organized, and keep God first. “Don’t look for the finish line, but take it one day at a time, and eventually you will get there if you keep walking and be obedient to the Holy Spirit,” she says.

P.O. Box 226 Porterdale, GA 30070 www.kingdomstepahead.com

To learn more about Kingdom Step Academy, please visit their website.

Milwaukee - July/August 2021

HuamiMagazine.com

Online Shoe Boutique Amanda Black - Owner

www.shoeful.net

864-553-3473

Huami Magazine for Milwaukee July/August 2021

Articles inside

Ray Resources LLC