NASHVILLE
March/April 2022 Vol. 3 Issue 3
Victoria Marie Photography LLC Nashville - March/April 2022
HuamiMagazine.com 1
®
Acknowledging National Black Excellence
Listen To Every Episode On The Following Platforms
www.mykelmedia.com
www.thisiswhoiam.libsyn.com
There Are No If, Ands, Or Buts About It! It Matters Who AreOr AtButs Our About Core It! There Are No If, We Ands, A Letter from the Editor
A Letter From The Editor
A Letter from the Editor
We have finally made it didn’t to thearrive? month All of March. However, What if tomorrow of your plans, hopes living indreams North Carolina, learned not totoget myon. hopes forif warm and wouldn’tI have a street park What weather tooifhigh the inconsistency inyour the weather everything thatdue youtodecided to put off until tomorrow never What tomorrow didn’t arrive? All of plans, hopes patterns. All in the same day, it may feel like it’s Springtime, happened? There would be no reason to save for a rainy and dreams wouldn’t have a street to park on. What if andeverything before know the temperature may rise, it never feels day, andyou you could spare someone theuntil trouble ofand making that youit, decided to put off tomorrow likehappened? Summer; By the ifevening, and when promises. What your last opportunity seemingly There would beit’s noFall-like, reason to save formidnight aexpired rainy arrives, it’s Winter. That is just how it is in North Carolina. today? wouldspare you do? day, andWhat you could someone the trouble of making promises. What if your last opportunity seemingly expired I am aI’ve warm-weather kind of guy. If it’s degrees every day, been that I often seem like70 I do too much. today? Whattold would you do? thatHonestly, is fine with me.like Though I’ve survived the and Winter, I feel I am not doing enough I’m aI can firmdo without it. believer in knowing that God seem wouldn’t on me I’ve been told that I often like put I do anything too much. that I couldn’t sometimes wonderand how would Honestly, I feelhandle. like I amI not doing enough I’mlife a firm Asbeliever a young kid, my mother would dress my brother and be if I chose to sit idle and accept whatput it presented me. in knowing that God wouldn’t anything to onme me I in thick coats before allowing to goopinion, outside and play havewinter that to be very boring.usIn my opportunity that I found couldn’t handle. I sometimes wonder how life would in the cold. Underneath the coats, we wore sweaters, two is aifblessing that to what everyone. A challenge be I chose to sitisn’t idle afforded and accept it presented to me. I t-shirts, thermals, sometimes t-shirts. to me is an adventure. What ismore the In worst thatShe canwanted happen?to have found thatand to be very boring. my opinion, opportunity ensure wenothing, would not get tooif cold out We didn’t, If aI do I fail, and I try to Iwhile don’t, butplaying. instead learn is blessing that isn’t afforded everyone. A challenge something new about myself. yourwould pride and andto when was time to come inside, peelin me isitan adventure. Whatback is Relinquish the worstmom that can happen? return acquire life. ourIf layers of clothing away, one shirt. Our inner I do nothing, I fail, and ifdown I try Ito don’t, but instead learncore body temperature warmRelinquish beneath everything, andinour something new remained about myself. your pride and The best advice ever given to me happened when someone wellbeing remained intact. That experience reminds me of how return acquire life. me tome make tomorrow happen today. In doing so Godtold protects formy all seasons and situations. I have pressed my way through doors with a key thatsomeone only The best advice ever given to me happened when hopeme provided. Imy have also learned the difference between told to make tomorrow happen today. doing so Through prayer, fasting, reading God’s word, andInapplication, what God blesses me with and what life can burden me with I have pressed myisway through with a keyI keep that only a layer of protection placed over doors my life. When God at as well. compare it toalso knowing when be and provided. IHimself have learned the to difference between my hope core, HeIreveals when the layers areconfident peeled away. when to be quiet, because what Godcan blesses me with anddepression, what life can burden me with These layers be fear, shame, guilt, or anything someone may get it confused well. may I compare it toto knowing whenme tointo be confident and theas enemy try to use discourage believing I am with being arrogant. when to be quiet, because less than what God created me to be. someone may get it confused Make youarrogant. with being I start each day with prayer and reading, and Itomorrow seek God happen but most first; that is the first layer applied. When mytoday, faith is tested importantly make it Make you tomorrow throughout the day, I speakcount. life Life is but a whisper and today, but on most into myhappen situation and rest God’s we must put ourselves in a importantly make it count. promise. By doing this, another position toa hear it is Life is butand whisper and layer is applied, I amwhat warmed telling us. we must put ourselves a by what I expect to happen byin faith. position to hear what is Before my day ends, I can onlyit thank telling us. God for His grace yet once again for L. Watson keeping me.Terry We must keep God at the core of who we are. Editor/Founder
www.huamimagazine.com Editor In Chief
Terry L. Watson www.huamimagazine.com Alana Allen - Deputy Editor Editor In Chief www.huamimagazine.com Terry L. Watson Writers
Alana Allen - Deputy Tonya Dixon Editor Terry L Watson Terry L. WatsonPublisher Writers Alana Allen Tonya JeuronDixon Dove Writer Dorjea’ McClammey Terry L. Watson Ellen Richardson Alana Allen Writer Photographers Arielle Kilgore Photography Dove Writer PerfectJeuron Lenz Shaw Photography Group Photographers Still Shots Photography Tamara Smith Perfect Lenz Photography Victoria Fowler Photographer Who Shotya Photography Shaw Photography Group Ashleigh Crawley Photographer Still ShotsLayout Photography Who Photography MykelShotya Media Company Linda Bennett Layout Howard Gaither Photography
Mykel Media Inquiries Company General mykelmedia@yahoo.com Linda Bennett huami.nashville@gmail.com (336) 340-7844 HUAMI MAGAZINE is published bimonthly quarterly by the mykelmedia@yahoo.com Mykel Media Company. Any reproduction of any 340-7844 portion of (336) this publication is prohibited without
written MAGAZINE permission isfrom the publisher to HUAMI published quarterly prior by the doing so. Mykel Media doesn’t accept responsibility Mykel Media Company. Any reproduction of any for statements by individuals featured or portion of this made publication is prohibited without advertisers. Comments concerning this publication written permission from the publisher prior to be Media submitted to the editorresponsibility by doing so. may Mykel doesn’t accept Email or Telephone E-mail at terrywatson@huamimagazine.com for statements made Email by individuals featured or terry.editor@yahoo.com terry.editor@yahoo.com advertisers. Comments concerning this publication 336-340-7844 or toto the editor by may be submitted Mykel Media Company, LLC E-mail at terrywatson@huamimagazine.com P.O. BoxCompany 20102 LLC Mykel Media terry.editor@yahoo.com Greensboro, 27420 Greensboro, or toNC NC HUAMI MAGAZINE 2022 All Rights Reserved Mykel Media Company, LLC 2014 All Rights Reserved P.O. Box 20102 Greensboro, NC 27420 HUAMI MAGAZINE 2014 All Rights Reserved
On The Cover
Photo by Shaw Photography Group
Want To Advdertise? Terry L. Watson Photo bycall Shaw 336-340-7844 Photography Group Please Editor/Founder November/December 2014 Want To Advertise? Call (336)340-7844 Terry L. Watson On The Cover
4
4
HuamiMagazine.com
4
HuamiMagazine.com
November/December 2014
Want To Advertise? Call (336)340-7844
CONTENTS
MARCH/APRIL 2022
NASHVILLE EDITION
Jabaz Reeves 40
Cabrini Superfoods
6
On The Cover
Victoria Marie Photography LLC Victoria Fowler
Hair and Stuff 216
Remona Taylor
10
The Lavish Box
Leslie Williams
Huami Magazine Cutest Baby
Wynter Rose
14
42
Also Featured
Patrick Bean He is singing and praising God. Learn more about the founder of Bonafide Worshippers. Little Rock, AR
18
Tameran Davenport She made the huge step from Corporate America in to the world of Entreprenuership with Positive Outlook Trainings. Charlotte, NC
22
Lalese Stamps She has always been a creative. Now, her talents are taking her places she never imagined. Meet the face and owner of Lolly Lolly Ceramics. Milwaukee, WI
34 5
Victoria Marie Photography LLC 6
By Terry L. Watson Photos by Victoria Fowler The craft of photography has grown in popularity in recent years, possibly due to the conversion from film to digital photo production. We live in a digital age, where a quick turnaround on anything seems to be the majority preference. Still, to succeed in this arena, one must have an eye for it. Without it, it’s almost impossible to separate yourself from the masses. Victoria Fowler of Nashville is the owner of Victoria Marie Photography LLC. She began shooting for the first time around 2011 and 2012. She shares, “Around that time, I really didn’t take it as seriously as I could have. My nursing career was taking off, so I approached it like a hobby and it didn’t materialize. I always enjoyed taking pictures, but life got in the way, and I just put it out of my mind. Then the Covid 19 pandemic started in 2020, and I had a lot more time on my hands. So I learned everything about photography and decided to invest in a beginner professional camera. Once I got my hands on it, I told myself if I could bet on anything, I could bet on myself. In a few short months, I outgrew my beginner camera and purchased another one.” Victoria was born and raised in Nashville and graduated from Tennessee State University in 2008. For the last fourteen years, she has worked full-time as a Registered Nurse. She is the mother of a six-year-old son, whom she says is her world because he pushes her everyday to be better and do better. Victoria naturally loves helping people, which is why she decided to pursue nursing. “Nursing has changed my life. I have met some unforgettable people along the way. I have always loved taking pictures to document everything, so as my nursing career took off, I bought a camera and took pictures,” she says.
Nashville - March/April 2022
HuamiMagazine.com 7
“When you come to me, all I want you to do is be prepared for an experience of a lifetime that you will remember, forever.” Victoria is a luxury maternity photographer. She provides makeup and wardrobe creative design for her maternity clients with each photography production. “When you come to me, all I want you to do is be prepared for an experience of a lifetime that you will remember forever,” Victoria says. She currently serves Nashville and the surrounding areas and will travel upon request. Being able to wake up everyday knowing that she has a purpose inspires Victoria. Also, knowing and trusting God that she has found her purpose inspires her as well. She credits her parents with having the biggest impact on her life as they have supported her 1000% in anything she wanted to do. “They raised me to be a woman of my word, to be kind in a world that is not, do the right thing, and be myself,” she says. “If I could give them the world, I would.” Victoria shares she has enjoyed her ride, from being a nurse to becoming a full-fledged photographer. “I wouldn’t change anything about the experience I’ve had. I am right where God wants me to be. Things don’t happen on my time but on time. I am truly blessed to be able to do what I do, and I have big plans for my future,” she says. h
www.victoriamariephotography.net 8
9
Hair & Stuff 216 10
HuamiMagazine.com
Nashville - March/April 2022
By Dorjae’ McClammey Phtos by Remona Taylor Like most urban communities around the country, African American ownership of beauty supply stores was once nonexistent. Historically, the percentage in the consumption and purchases of beauty supplies greatly leans towards African Americans when compared to other races, rarely do they reap or benefit from their spending choices. Now, the landscape is changing, and a new color of ownership is emerging. Cleveland, OH native Remona Taylor is the CEO of Hair & Stuff 216 Beauty Supply. Located in the heart of Cleveland, OH, the growing supply chain offers popular, trending, and reputable products such as Black Panther, Curls, Mielle, The Mane Choice, and The Doux. They also have natural beauty and hair care products inspired and handmade by small business owners like LaJAshley, Blossom Beauty Co, and Premier Ponytail Band. “Hair & Stuff 216 works with local and out-of-state small business owners to exclusively carry the unique trending products in our store,” Remona says. For quite some time, Remona always wanted to be a business owner. While in Graduate school, she would constantly ask her husband, Raymell, if they could start a business. His reply was always, “when you finish school, we can talk about it.” So that’s what she did; she completed everything, and things began to move.
Pictured with Remona and Raymell are their children Malessa Raymell Jr.
At first, her husband wanted her to think outside of the box. She gave him ideas for all types of businesses like daycares, home healthcare agencies, and more. Then one day, while traveling to the closest beauty supply store, which was 45 minutes away, Remona and her husband realized an opportunity to fill a void in their community. She said to her husband, “I have an idea; what about a beauty supply store?” Being the smarty pants he is, Remona says he responded, “I have a better idea, what about a beauty supply store?” This (make it happen, duo) hit the ground running from that conversation. This was 2017. Even though Remona and Raymell both were working full-time jobs, they weren’t deterred. They contacted a friend who helped them get started by selling all types of hair bundles. It began with them selling bundles, purchasing business cards, and registering their business name. Remona and Raymell continued to work hard until they secured their lease for their initial brick and mortar retail location. During this time it took 4 months to create the store and open the doors January 13th, 2018. “Our shelves were bare, and we purchased the small amount Nashville - March/April 2022
HuamiMagazine.com 11
of product we had with our own money. We were a little hesitant at first, but just like a kid on Christmas Day, I ripped the paper off and opened the doors, and Hair & Stuff 216 came to life,” she says. At first, due to staffing issues, they could only have the store open for part-time hours. After one year, they hired their first employee, which helped them grow from their original 900-foot store into a 2400 square foot space. Remona has built her business to serve the needs of her community and is fully committed to giving back to it. She accomplishes this by working with other entrepreneurs in Cleveland, such as the owner of Events on Ridge, Alisha Norris! Together they created Westside W.R.A.P (working relationships and positivity), a group for entrepreneurs who learn and help each others’ businesses grow.
Malessa & Raymell Jr.
Remona says what she loves most about her business is the relationships developed with her customers. She refers to them as Kings and Queens and knowing that she can give them a comfortable experience while shopping is essential to her. As for what inspires her, Remona stated, “Knowing that I’m doing the right thing at the right time and doing right by God, my family, myself, and aligning with my purpose. That inspires me more than anything else. My mom alway makes the statement to me “reach for the stars”; well I am now reaching beyond those stars and it’s time to touch the universe.” While the journey has been challenging as an entrepreneur, Remona says it has been worth it. “God has made it, so it’s not an issue. Through it all, the long nights and hard times, my lights are on, the gas bill is paid, I’m able to manage and grow the inventory and pay my employees. Most of all, I’m still winning.”
6277 Pearl Road Suite D Parma Heights Ohio 44130 440-345-5595 www.hairandstuff216.com
12
HuamiMagazine.com
Nashville - March/April 2022
In the future, Remona plans to bring more jobs to her community by hiring more employees and ultimately opening another store. She is a determined businesswoman who has changed how African Americans purchase beauty products. Her final message for those who may follow a path similar to her is, “Let your faith be bigger than your fears; trust it and stand on it.” Please visit their website to learn more about Remona Taylor and Hair & Stuff 216. h
Nashville - March/April 2022
HuamiMagazine.com 13
14
HuamiMagazine.com
Nashville - March/April 2022
The Lavish Box By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by Leslie Williams Leslie Williams is a 27 year-old Detroit, MI native. She is the oldest child of three and has a half-sister. Leslie’s family has moved around a lot throughout her life, living in Arizona, Connecticut, and Michigan. Moving helped her adapt quickly to almost any situation, a quality that plays a huge role in who she is today; a proven businesswoman. Leslie is the owner of Lavish Box LLC, a 24-hour beauty supply vending machine retailer. She offers a range of products that extends from multicultural to ethnic specific. Some include false eyelashes, bonding glues, combs, edge control, braiding hair, and flat irons. Additionally, Lavish Box LLC offers a small marketplace that features specialty curated local, minority-owned products. Lavish Box LLC began in June 2020 during the onset of the Covid 19 pandemic. Leslie says it came about as a response to the lack of beauty supply retailers and major retailers available during social distancing and other mandates due to Covid. She also wanted to address a general lack of ethnic products available in convenient retailers. She says that braiding hair, needle and thread, hair glue, and wig caps are products specific to inner-city beauty supplies but are typically unavailable at major retailers and convenience stores.
Nashville - March/April 2022
HuamiMagazine.com 15
“I’ve made mistakes and I have failed. I’ve also had successes and won, yet each situation serves as a learning experience for me.” Leslie shares she loves the opportunity to provide a service that helps women feel beautiful whenever they want to and on their time. She also loves giving other aspiring, enterprising women opportunities to bet on themselves and reach for their own greatness. “I’m inspired by the vision I’ve created in my head of what my success looks like. Having that goal and keeping to it inspires me to work harder until I reach it,” she says. While there have been some ups and downs for Leslie in business, she shares she wouldn’t change much about how things have happened. “I’ve made mistakes and I have failed. I’ve also had successes and won, yet each situation serves as a learning experience for me,” she says. Leslie offers some advice to those who are thinking about starting a business. First, she says you must genuinely believe in yourself. “I want others to know the sky isn’t the limit; in fact, it’s way more beyond that. You have to take the steps, and you have to do the work. Most importantly, you have to just do it,” she says. Lavish Box LLC will be adding more locations and expanding its franchise network in the future. Their future plans are also to create partnerships with other brands. “Our goal is to saturate densely populated black neighborhoods, get our machines into schools, universities, airports, and other major transportation hubs.” To learn more about Lavish Box LLC, please visit their website. h
www.LavishBoxBeauty.com 313-229-8936 16
Nashville - March/April 2022
HuamiMagazine.com 17
Bonafide Worshippers 18
HuamiMagazine.com
Nashville - March/April 2022
By Ellen Richardson Photos Provided by Patrick Bean Sing to him, sing praise to him; tell of all his wonderful acts. – Psalm 105:2 (New International Version). If you are a part of the church-going crowd and you enjoy singing praises to our wonderful Heavenly Father, then you need to know more about Patrick Bean & The Bonafide Worshippers. This apostolic gospel group was birthed from the dream of Forrest City, AR native Patrick Bean. “I am a church boy who loved music,” said Bean. “I grew up in church and spent most of my free time listening to and dreaming of becoming a gospel singer like Donald Lawrence and Ricky Dillard. I started pursuing this passion alongside my brother and three other cousins when we formed a family youth ensemble when I was like five years old. I also started singing in my family’s church choir and became a praise and worship leader at a very young age.” Although he would take a break from music for a brief period, God would keep the dream of bringing his worshipful music to all who need it. “It was funny that while I was taking a step back from music ministry, to enjoy spending time with my new bride, God birthed a new dream in my heart to start a gospel group,” said Bean. “After sitting down with the pastor, I knew that this dream was going to become a reality.” While it would take some time to find all the key players that would one day form a heavenly choir, the dream that God had placed in Bean’s heart began to take shape within a few months. “While I would like to tell you that everything fell into place easily, that was not the case,” said Bean. “As a matter of fact, it would take months of researching and sending inquiries to other gospel musicians/singers to find out if they would be interested in forming a group of apostolical worshippers,” said Bean. “Fortunately, God began opening doors, and people started agreeing to join my wife and me from all over, including Tennessee, Missouri, Texas, and Illinois.” Nashville - March/April 2022
HuamiMagazine.com 19
Before long, this group of God-given performers from around the Midwestern United States were rehearsing and performing at churches, conferences, stage plays, and going on tour with gospel musicians like Chrystal Rucker, Evangelist Andrew Johnson, famed Pastor Tim Rogers, and Leandra Johnson. “It has been an amazing experience. I have always loved music, and found my first love for the church in music,” said Bean. While the Gospel group that was once a dream inside a young man’s heart began their claim to fame by singing gospel songs that were made famous by a few of Bean’s mentors, it would not take long before the Lord led this lover of worship music towards writing his own gospel tunes. “I will never forget my brother pulling me aside and telling me that if I wanted to build my and this group’s brand, then I needed to start writing my own songs. It’s funny because shortly after this, our group held a rehearsal where our first original single called “Finish The Work” came to life,” he said. Following this single, Bean and his Bonafide Worshippers have written and released two singles, including their recent single taking the gospel world by storm – “Something’s About To Happen” and one full album. As this Contemporary Gospel Group continues to follow the path that God has laid out for them, what does the future look like for Patrick Bean and the Bonafide Worshippers?
“It has been an amazing experience. I have always loved music, and found my first love for the church in music.”
20
HuamiMagazine.com
Nashville - March/April 2022
“We have our second album coming out in the next two or three months, and I can see this one charting since our new/ lead single is being played regularly on various Christian radio stations and is even charting,” said Bean. “I am hoping that, with the help of my Heavenly Father, I and others in this group can become full-time artists so that we can bring God’s music to places like Italy, England, Africa, and throughout the world.” Productions of Patrick Bean and the Bonafide Worshippers on popular online music outlets, including Apple Music, Spotify, Amazon Music, and YouTube. You can also find out more about Bean and his worshippers on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok. h
Nashville - March/April 2022
HuamiMagazine.com 21
22
HuamiMagazine.com
Nashville - March/April 2022
Tameran
Davenport
Positive Outlook Trainings By Dorjae’ McClammey Photos by Luanna Moglamu
Charlotte, NC native Tameran Davenport is the CEO and President of Positive Outlook Trainings, LLC, a Tameran Baxter Inc company. Raised in a sound family setting, she has devoted her life to giving her children the best opportunity to live a well balanced life, succeed in her endeavors and help enhance the community. Tameran attended the Charlotte/Mecklenburg school system and later acquired her formal education at the University of Phoenix to receive her BA in Management and MBA in Business Administration. Tameran also has a Data Analyst certificate from CPCC and a Business Analyst Certification from UNCC. She describes herself as a People Change Management Consultant, “I help people change their self talk, shift their mindset, and help them gain work-life balance, all while building legacy and enjoying life,” she says. Tameran left Corporate America about seven years ago with these goals in mind; to operate in her purpose, live on her own terms and establish a legacy for her family. Tameran shares when she stepped away from corporate America, her passion was manufacturing the Positive Outlook Grooming products line. She produces Vegan and All Natural Men’s Grooming, Hair Care, and Skin Care products. Her most popular product is the men’s beard growth and grooming kit, a four-piece system including castile soap shampoo, apple cider vinegar tonic, growth serum, and a leave-in conditioning beard oil. Tameran states she established her brand in 2018 to honor her father and brother, who passed away in a plane crash that her father was flying when she was only 13. “The reason why I make all-natural products for men is to give back the love my father and brother gave me during the time we spent together,” she says. Her products are 100% vegan, including a vegan foot care product. Her products are centered around a healthy lifestyle because she desires to contribute to men’s well-being and longevity. Her second passion is Positive Outlook Trainings. Tameran says her journey with Positive Outlook Trainings began after she desired to use some of her schooling and life experiences. In her search, she stumbled across an international learning and development company. She went on to say, “As I was looking through the companies database, God clearly told me to buy a license within this company. He said “I will let you know when to launch the company, and I will provide the people and resources needed to assist
Nashville - March/April 2022
HuamiMagazine.com 23
you with this business”. Without any knowledge of what to do next with this newfound opportunity, she made the purchase. Tameran admitted she was skeptical at first but knew she heard that message loud and clear. For several years, she kept the business and licenses active as well as the website ready for God’s instruction. Tameran waited in anticipation of hearing that still voice say, “now is the time”. Two years after her initial business startup, the Covid 19 pandemic imposed its wrath worldwide. Tameran was still a little skeptical, and now she was faced with the uncertainty of what Covid would bring. Still, she waited and listened, and now four years later, she has a learning management system that houses over 140+ e-learning training modules and programs. Tameran shares that Positive Outlook Training is almost ready to be introduced to the world as a leading e-learning and management system for small and medium-sized businesses and entrepreneurs that are ready to pivot. She knows everything is falling into place because she let go and let God work,” she shares. Positive Outlook Training is an amazing library of leadership and development, human resources, business growth, and soft skills e-learning courses. It houses Employee Retention, Upskilling, Women’s Leadership and Development, and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion programs to name a few. Its courses and programs are housed on an easy-to-use learning management system that offers reporting, case studies, and knowledge assessments which can be taken anywhere at any time on most computers and mobile devices. They also provide a branded certificate with the successful completion of a program and courses. Positive Outlook Trainings plan to add the 10hr and 30hr OSHA trainings to the portfolio by the end of the year. Personally, Tameran has a heart of love, healing, and service for her community. She feeds her desire with Positive Outlook Trainings Elite (POT Elite), a coaching program that helps women entrepreneurs/small business owners operate within their comfort zone, expand their territory and have fun while increasing profit. It also assists with creating more leverage allowing participants to work less and spend more time doing what they enjoy. When asked what she loves most about what she does, Tameran credits being able to positively impress upon people’s lives and being able to help educate her community. She also appreciates the opportunity it offers by creating balance and eliminating stress in her life. She says her children are her biggest inspiration. Their drive and commitment to their aspirations in life motivate her to keep thriving. “My children keep me on my toes,” she shares. Of course, everyone has their challenges, and Tameran has some as well. Having to leave the mindset of a solopreneur to be CEO is one of them. “You have to develop a new way of thinking, build an amazing team and learn to trust people with your process and procedures. I am learning that I could not do it all by myself,” she shares. Moving forward, Tameran plans to hire teams composed of thought leaders that will continue to grow the community and expand her businesses globally. Her advice to others who may travel the entrepreneurial path is to balance their lives. “Work-life balance is key; without it, you will not be fulfilled, and you will not live a long healthy life. More importantly, you will not be able to enjoy the fruits of your labor.” Her final words would be “to pray, quite the mind (meditate) and listen for Gods instruction. Let God instruct you on why He chose you!”
Postive Outlook Grooming www.pogrooming.com 980-319-3784 Positive Outlook Trainings www.positiveoutlooktrainings.com 704-665-8577
24
HuamiMagazine.com
Nashville - March/April 2022
To learn more about Tameran and her companies, please visit her websites or follow her on social media @pogrooming and @potrainings. h
Nashville - March/April 2022
HuamiMagazine.com 25
26
HuamiMagazine.com
Nashville - March/April 2022
Re-elect for Guilford County Sheriff By Marrissa Dick Photos by Still Shots Photography Election time is nearing again and that means the citizens of Guilford County will cast their ballots for sheriff on May 17, 2022. During this primary election, citizens will be critically reflective of all campaign promises and weigh the checks and balances of their current elected officials. One office that will be reexamined is the Sheriff’s Office. It is important for all citizens to know that the Sheriff’s Office is interwoven into America’s democratic society. Citizens should understand that the Sheriff is a law enforcement officer who is directly responsible to the citizens in the counties in which he or she serves. The Sheriff’s Office is not a county government; instead, it is the independent office through which the Sheriff exercises the powers of the public’s trust. No individual or small group hires or fires the Sheriff or has the authority to interfere with the operations of the office. One of the most important facts that people should know is that all elected sheriffs are accountable directly to the constitution of their state, the United States Constitution, local statutes, and to the citizens of their county. As primary elections near the citizens of Guilford County will have a watchful eye on the new candidates vying for the seat of Sheriff as well as reviewing the promises made by the current Sheriff, Danny H. Rogers. Read on as Sheriff Rogers reminds the citizens of the pledges, he made four years ago and shares the new plans he has to further enhance the Sheriff’s Office. Sheriff Rogers shares, “I’m glad that I have an opportunity to speak about the Sheriff’s Office as I complete my first four years of being sheriff. This has been such a rewarding and fulfilling experience. I’ve learned so much doing this job and just when I think I have it down something else comes along to remind me that there is always going to be something new and interesting to learn and I’m grateful for that process because it all just keeps me on my toes. I’m grateful that God has entrusted me with this position because I couldn’t do any of it without Him. Daily I ask Him to keep my deputies safe, but I also ask Him to reveal to me how I can make a difference in the communities we serve.” Titus 3:1-2 reminds us, “that we should be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good, to slander no one, to be peaceable and considerate, and always to be gentle toward everyone.” These are the principles that
Nashville - March/April 2022
HuamiMagazine.com 27
Sheriff Rogers strives towards daily, and it is evident by his constituents that he has made a progressive change within the Sheriff’s Office as well as within the communities that he has made “a positive change for all Guilford County citizens”. When Sheriff Rogers was elected in 2018 his primary focus was to restore agency accountability, accreditation, create safer outcomes with community policing, rebuild law enforcement and citizen relationships, saving tax dollars through recidivism reduction, reduce officer attrition rates, and develop equitable employment practices. It suffices to say that Sheriff Danny H. Rogers has honored his 2018 commitments. For example, the Sheriff’s Office received full accreditation on November 19, 2021, from the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, Inc. (CALEA). This agency has been in existence since 1979 and is a credentialing authority, based in the United States, whose primary mission is to accredit public safety agencies, namely law enforcement agencies. This accreditation is essential because it brings continued training to the Sheriff’s Office and that training can be utilized in the community, especially with the current climate of cases like George Floyd and Ahmaud Arbery which touched the hearts and minds of people all over the world, but also the citizens of Guilford County. According to Sheriff Rogers, “We had civil unrest behind Mr. Floyd, Mr. Arbery, and Ms. Taylor. Most people were very concerned about how these events would touch our counties. When the civil unrest did come our way, we were as prepared as we could be because of the training we had. There was a lot going on in Greensboro and High Point and unfortunately, there was some property loss, but I’m very grateful that it wasn’t as bad as it could have been.” Sheriff Rogers is grateful for the Community Resource Unit (CRU) which has been enhanced significantly since he became sheriff. “This unit was already in place, but it wasn’t very viable within the community. When I came into office, I enhanced it by employing more empowered deputies throughout all of Guilford County. We have a presence at most events in the city as well as in rural sections of the county. Prior to this enhancement citizens were not accustomed to seeing the Sheriff’s Office unless they called us for help. Now our presence is there to support the community and our presence often deters offenders. The Sheriff’s Office is not here to just incarcerate people. We’re here to help make a difference and the CRU teams help with that cause. Our citizens understand that we are here to be of service to them and I believe they really appreciate our support.” Not only has Sheriff Rogers enhanced training programs for his deputies and has intense communication with its’ community partners he has also instituted the Sheriff’s Community Roundtable, (SCR), where they discuss what’s happening in different communities. These discussions are beneficial because it helps reduce drug and gun violence, sex trafficking, domestic violence, and break-ins. He shares, “We work collaboratively with the community to find effective ways to eradicate these things. Has it all stopped? No, it hasn’t, but what I will say is that through the roundtable meetings a lot of these issues have decreased.”
28
HuamiMagazine.com
Nashville - March/April 2022
Nashville - March/April 2022
HuamiMagazine.com 29
30
HuamiMagazine.com
Nashville - March/April 2022
“Our office has grown significantly, especially within our Law Enforcement, Detention Services, and Civilian departments. The Sheriff’s Office is now more diverse than it has ever been. Our numbers have increased to include all mankind. This is something the office never had before. I’m big on diversity because it’s important for people to see diverse representation.”
One other program that has significantly been revamped is the Re-Entry Program. Sheriff Rogers shares, “We have instituted a broader and better vision to the Sheriff’s Office with our Re-Entry Program. This program helps us reach those individuals who are going against the grain before they become incarcerated. We do this by addressing educational needs with our GED, drug addiction, and job readiness programs. Then we’re here once they have served their time and come back out into society. Once people serve their time they shouldn’t have to come out and be penalized again. If they are unable to get housing or gainful employment what else are they going to do? The ex-offender will resort to unlawful ways of having their basic needs met. They need to feel like a viable part of the community especially when they have a change of heart and mind. The Re-Entry Program only works when stakeholders reach out and give them hope and I am grateful that we have area businesses willing to extend that much needed hand. Believe me, I do understand that people want to know who they are living and working around, but once they have served their time, they still deserve the opportunity to become a viable part of society again, so they don’t have to revisit prison and use our tax dollars to support them.” The Sheriff’s Office has also instituted a Food Pantry Program, a Toys and Coats Program, and Fill the School Bus Program. Some of these programs were already in place, but it is under Sheriff Rogers leadership that these programs are now accessible and beneficial for all communities. Another enhancement to the Guilford County Sheriff’s Office has been the intake of diverse deputies. Since Sheriff Rogers tenure he has significantly increased the number of sworn and non-sworn detention officers and law enforcement deputies that are more equitable and representative of the communities in which they serve. Sheriff Rogers shared that initially, it was hard to maintain qualified deputies due to the low annual salaries, but now with help from administration, they have been able to increase the pay rate. He also shared that both men and women from all walks of life are invited to apply to the Sheriff’s Office as long as they are qualified, can pass the background test, and are legal citizens of the United States. Sheriff Rogers is a firm believer that law enforcement should be representative of the communities in which they serve. He shares, “Prior to my serving as Sheriff there was a severe lack of diversity within the Guilford County Sheriff’s Office. Our office has grown significantly, especially within our Law Enforcement, Detention Services, and Civilian departments. The Sheriff’s Office is now more diverse than it has ever been. Our numbers have increased to include all mankind. This is something the office never had before. I’m big on diversity because it’s important for people to see diverse representation.” Sheriff Rogers is proud that under his leadership diversity is steadily on the rise. Currently, his sworn deputies are comprised of African Americans, American Indians, Arabians, Asians, Hispanics/Latino, and Whites. Sheriff Rogers looks forward to the day when every nation and culture can be representative of the Sheriff’s Office. What other changes has Guilford County benefited from Sheriff Rogers being at the helm? He shares, “I have a Special Enforcement Team, (SET), and they focus on the drugs coming through the highways and backroads. Within three years we have taken close to $12 million dollars in drugs off the street. And most times these crimes are not from people who even live in our communities. We are also working on our Real Time Crime Center, (RTCC). This Center will really help us solve crimes. Now that so many people have real-time video like Ring, they can provide us with that video feed needed to help us solve crimes much quicker. The RTCC can be even more effective if the community will submit that video feed. You know
31
you can talk all day, but the rubber meets the road with that viable and creditable video or phone call. You know I listen to people talk about defunding the police, but I do not agree with that concept. I tell people all the time that we don’t want to defund the police; instead, you want to reform the police and the way to do that is through continual diversity training because understanding people from different walks of life is important. Another thing I advocate for within the Sheriff’s Office is mental health wellness. As the Sheriff I’ve seen things that are gut wrenching and so have my deputies. So, I am a proponent for counseling. We must learn how to deal with what we see daily because we’re human beings. I don’t want my deputies internalizing any negative emotions, so counseling is essential and not frowned upon within the office. I certainly advocate for counseling, self-care, and spending quality time with family. You know I am not a oneman show. I have a phenomenal upper-level command team and I have a phenomenal group of experienced men and women who serve beside me. Together we all are making a difference in Guilford County.” As you can see, Sheriff Rogers has more than maintained his campaign promises to the citizens of Guilford County. He has enhanced the Sheriff’s Office by strengthening relationships with the court system on all levels; he has increased salaries; he has hired an unprecedented amount of qualified and culturally diverse deputies, and he has restructured old programs while simultaneously initiating new ones that benefit the community. He shares, “You know the Sheriff’s Office is set apart from other law enforcement agencies because we are directly accountable to the citizens. Well, I believe that I have been accountable, and I also have the experience needed to further this office, so it works to the benefit of all not just some. Real talk, I stopped by K&W for dinner one evening and I held the door open for this little fragile woman and she said, ‘Thank you, baby.’ Then she really looked at me and said, ‘You’re the Sheriff, aren’t you?’ I said yes, ma’am, I am, I’m Danny, and she said, ‘Good to meet you, Sheriff. I bet you didn’t know you had a lot of white Grand Ma’s praying for you.’ And I thanked her and her friends for their prayers. That short conversation gave me chills because she didn’t have to share that with me. I could see the sincerity in her eyes. I am so grateful for all the prayers for me and my deputies because we can’t do this job without the prayers or without God. Real talk I love what I do. This has been the greatest experience in my life because it has made me a better person overall. Being the sheriff means you’re a servant of the people. You’re not serving yourself or looking for power and privilege. I do this job effectively because I won’t be a puppet for anyone, but I will be the sheriff for everyone. I genuinely believe in Guilford County and the relationships that the Sheriff’s Office have fostered within the communities we serve.” If you would like to continue seeing “A Positive Change for All Guilford County Citizens” then join the 2022 campaign to re-elect Danny H. Rogers as Guilford County Sheriff on May 17, 2022. You can visit www.dhrogers4sheriff.com or follow his campaign on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. h
32
Nashville - March/April 2022
HuamiMagazine.com 33
34
HuamiMagazine.com
Nashville - March/April 2022
Lalese Stamps Lolly Lolly Ceramics
By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided By Loalese Stamps
Lolly Lolly Ceramics, the name itself, exudes excitement. Founded in 2017 by Lalese Stamps, Lolly Lolly Ceramics is a Black-owned, womenrun small business in Milwaukee, WI. The brand focuses on objects that are functional, unique, and handmade. In September of 2019, Lalese embarked on a 100 Day Project where she made 100 mugs with 100 different handles for 100 Days, bringing national recognition to the Lolly Lolly name. Today the Lolly team is made up of four people, but growing. The demand for Lolly Lolly Ceramics is high. Most recently, Lalese was invited to appear on the Daily Show with Trevor Noah to celebrate Women’s History Month. A collaboration was announced between the two, The Lolly Lolly Ceramics x The Daily Show with Trevor Noah Collection, and will feature three special-edition mug styles set. Lolly Lolly Lolly originated in Columbus, OH. In July 2021, Lalese moved her operations to Milwaukee, which is also her hometown. “I’ve been a creative my entire life, but I didn’t begin to make ceramics until 2017. I studied graphic design at the Columbus College of Art and Design in Columbus. While studying for my undergrad, I noticed that I was always on my laptop and became afraid that I wasn’t using my hands to create as much, so I enrolled in a pottery class at my local community arts center. From there, I started selling ceramics at the local flea market to make a little extra money. One thing led to another, and now I’m selling direct-to-consumer on my own website, wholesaling, and even doing custom orders for brands such as Saine Heron and Solange and the MOMA Design Store,” she says.
Nashville - March/April 2022
HuamiMagazine.com 35
“I always tell people to listen to their gut and just keep going. As you grow, there are going to be people who interject themselves onto your dreams and goals, but only you know you, and you’ve gotten yourself far for a reason.”
In September of 2019, Lalese designed and completed a 100 Day Project where she made 100 mugs for 100 days with 100 different handles. This project has been her sort of claim-to-fame experience. In addition to mugs, this year they hope to roll out more dinnerware pieces like bowls, and plates. With an abundance of plants in the studio, planters possibly will be a major alignment to the Lolly Lolly Ceramics brand. Lalese says she is inspired by a lot of things. Recently she went to the Harley Museum for the first time in Milwaukee and was amazed at what she saw. “The museum itself is beautiful, but seeing the journey of another brand is so inspiring. They’ve saved everything from bank notes to invoices to initial motorcycle sketches. I hope I can grow my brand to be recognized on a global scale like Harley is.”
36
HuamiMagazine.com
Nashville - March/April 2022
Nashville - March/April 2022
HuamiMagazine.com 37
38
HuamiMagazine.com
Nashville - March/April 2022
Like most businesses, Lolly Lolly Ceramics has seen its share of challenges. The biggest challenge has been handling the high demand of work. The growth of Lolly Lolly Ceramics happened very quickly. Navigating entrepreneurialism has suddenly become a wild ride for Lalese, but she says it’s also very empowering. “Scaling up our production has been a challenge within this challenge. We want to produce more work for our audience, but that has meant a lot of sacrifice and patience. We are so close to rolling out a new way to produce our pieces; we’re excited about it because it’ll mean new opportunities for products, workshops, new team members, and so much more,” Lalese says. The journey for Lolly Lolly Ceramics has been enjoyable, says Lalese. She shares this isn’t much she would change about how things have happened. “I” ve learned along the way, and I’ve hired the right people to navigate areas that are unfamiliar to me.” For others who may follow the same path as she has, Lalese shares some sound advice and encouragement. “I always tell people to listen to their gut and just keep going. As you grow, there are going to be people who interject themselves onto your dreams and goals, but only you know you, and you’ve gotten yourself far for a reason. Sometimes outside advice can be helpful, but it also can be very detrimental. You need to have the wherewithal to be able to take it all in, but know which things are important and which are not,” she says. h
www.lollylollyceramics.com
39
40
HuamiMagazine.com
Nashville - March/April 2022
Cabrini Superfoods By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by Jabaz Reeves Whatever we put into our bodies will surely show up on the outside, in some form or another. While the consumption of processed foods has seemingly increased over past years, the benefits aren’t clearly defined. According to information shared on the website www. healthguidance.org, “Processed foods are foods that are prepared through physical or chemical treatments, which result in the food being significantly different from its original state.” Though opinions vary, when trying to sustain a healthy lifestyle, it may be wise to choose other food options. This is where Jabaz Reeves comes into play. The Chicago, IL native and Mississippi resident has built his company from a homeostasis perspective, which means: the tendency toward a relatively stable equilibrium between interdependent elements, especially as maintained by physiological processes. (Mariam Webster Dictionary). Now residing in Jackson, MS, Jabaz owns Cabrini Superfoods. His company offers 440 herbs from different Co-ops located within and outside of the United States. He uses these herbs to encapsulate and combat various ailments in the body such as High Blood Pressure, Diabetes, Cancer, Libido, Crohn’s, and Epilepsy. There is also a metaphysical section that includes crystals, sage, palo santo, resin, and Florida water. He also stocks a wide variety of herbal teas, fluoride-free toothpaste, elixirs, tonics, raw black soap, and sea moss. Jabaz graduated from Morgan Park High School in 2002. Shortly after graduation, he joined the United States Army and later deployed to Baghdad, Iraq. That was in 2003. He returned home in 2004 and completed his 1500-hour barber course to become a professional barber. He also attended Virginia College and obtained an associate degree in business. Jabaz says he started his journey of healing his body with herbs and a plant-based diet in 2017. “My health was poor, and I weighed 306 lbs. I had many ailments like High Blood Pressure, Diabetes, and Thyroid issues. Traditional medicine was not helping me, but things changed when I learned about veganism while researching remedies to treat my ailments,” he says. Now living a healthier life, Jabaz is committed to helping obtain the same benefits. “I love to hear the results when customers’ health issues are being resolved
by utilizing a holistic approach,” he shares. Additionally, he says his inspiration comes from seeing so much growth within himself spiritually, mentally, and physically. Jabaz says he truly believes that he is walking in his purpose. He admits that it hasn’t been easy, but he appreciates the tough moments he’s faced. The only thing he says he would change about his journey is allowing someone to make him feel as if he was doing something wrong by venturing off and creating his own business instead of working to build them up. His advice to others who may follow in his footsteps is to create your own lane. “You must be original and never let anyone downplay your dreams,” he shares. In the future, he plans to open a smoothie bar and offer nutrition and health wellness classes for people who are beginning their health journey. To learn more about Cabrini Superfoods, please visit their website. h
www.cabrinigreensuperfoods.com
41
MAGAZINE
Cutest Baby
42
HuamiMagazine.com
Wynter Rose The daughter of Christopher and Latisha
Nashville - March/April 2022
To submit photographs to be placed in the Huami Magazine Cutest Baby feature, please send a detailed email to huami.cutestbaby@gmail.com
Nashville - March/April 2022
HuamiMagazine.com 43
www.pogrooming.com
