Huami Magazine Philadelphia July/August 2021

PHILADELPHIA

July/August 2021 Vol. 1 Issue 3

Dahlia Rose Wellness Philadelphia - July/August 2021

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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 Letter the my Editor growAup rightfrom 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 tomorrow didn’t arrive? All of your plans, hopes provide for hisifneeds.

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

and dreams wouldn’t have a street to park on. What if thatyet you decided towords, put offmy until neverother As everything a baby and not able to form sontomorrow cried and made wouldtobeletnousreason to was savehungry. for a rainy baby happened? sounds whenThere he wanted know he When his diaper wasand wet, hecould didn’tspare say [dad, I am wet]; cried. It was my day, you someone the instead, trouble he of making duty promises. to determine his need and translate the information was trying What if your last opportunity seeminglyhe expired to share.

Thank God I was you abledo? to, and my son was fed and cared for. today?

What would Though I can only imagine how difficult it would have been for him had I ignored I’ve his cries wasthat unable to understand beenortold I often seem like them.

I do too much.

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

Asbeliever adults and not babies, ourGod methods of communicating ourme pains, in knowing that wouldn’t put anything on 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 have found that to be very boring. In my opinion, opportunity causes us to internalize these issues and not let them out.

is a blessing that isn’t afforded to everyone. A challenge to me is blesses an adventure.

What worst that can When God His children toisbethe a well or source forhappen? others, it I do nothing, I fail, andofifinfluence.

I try I don’t, but instead learn oftenIfcomes with some form With influence, there is power something about myself.life.

Relinquish your pride and in and the ability tonew impact someone’s Not understanding the power return acquire life.as careless as someone who is driving a car at 100 of your influence is just miles per hour with their eyes closed.

The best advice ever given to me happened when someone told meattracts to make my tomorrow happen today.influence In doingis so Influence the interest of others.

Because often I havewith pressed myitway throughattracts doors with a key that associated power, oftentimes weakness.

Whatonly I am tryinghope to share; If someone treating you wrong you feel between like you are provided.

I haveisalso learned the difference beingwhat “hated on”, it might mean that person is actually crying and God blesses me with and what life can burden meout with cannot convey what’s hurting them. as well. I compare it to knowing when to be confident and As Christians, we can’t ignore these cries. when to be quiet, because We should listen with our hearts and someone may get it confusedseek God’s instruction how to respond. with beingon arrogant.

If you are in a position of influence, fill Make you tomorrow yourself with the love of God on a daily happen today, but most basis. I was able to determine what my importantly make it count. son’s needs were only because I loved Life is butgives a whisper andand the him. God’s love us power weunderstand must put ourselves in apains ability to the cries and position to hear what it is of others.

www.huamimagazine.com Terry L. Watson

Publisher

www.huamimagazine.com Ellen Richardson Editor In Chief Writer Terry L. Watson Writer Ayana Bryant Allen - Deputy Editor ArielleAlana Kilgore Writer Dorjae’ McClammey Writer Writers

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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 4

Terry L. Watson Editor/Founder

On The Cover

Photo by Shaw Photography Group

CONTENTS

JULY/AUGUST 2021

PHILADELPHIA

Gallerie Ukwensi at Ghent

Ukwensi Chappell

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On The Cover

Dahlia Rose Wellness Djuan Short

God Did It Again

Tifanie Rudd

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Sunflower Queen

Toi Cage

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Huami Magazine Cutest Baby

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Attorney Alton Edmond Learn how he is impacting lives in his community.

Cocoa, FL

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Asher Grady

Also Featured

Hot Sams Detroit Learn how this mens fashion store has made it to 100 years in business. Tony Stovall and Clifford G. Green.

Detroit, MI

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Titile Niamke It’s all about the tea, and the honey, and the herbs, and more.

Meet the face and founder of The Tea Bar 901.

Memphis, TN Philadelphia - July/August 2021

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Philadelphia - July/August 2021

Djuan S hort Dahlia Rose Wellness

By Arielle Kilgore Photos by Djuan Short

When you think of stress, you assume the cause of it would be employment or the engagement or involvement with other people. However, the number one leading contributing factor is mental.

Djuan Short is a licensed clinical therapist based in Philadelphia, PA, and the owner of Dahlia Rose Wellness. With her practice, she offers individual or child and family therapy sessions. She also takes an EMDR approach which suggests specialty care for those with past traumatic instances.

Other services include yoga instruction and online therapy classes such as female entrepreneurship and relationship advice. Furthermore, the option of a holistic approach is available with a holistic psychotherapy session with Djuan.

Djuan provides consultations and counseling services for non-profits and businesses, as well.

These services are designed to help pilot their staff more efficiently and, in some cases, produce the task more successfully. She believes her techniques for dealing with stress prove that a strong mindset encourages a great life. “I’m a people person at my core. I strive to understand the needs of others and assist with finding solutions for them,” she says.

Djuan received her Bachelor of Arts from the University of Maryland and Masters in Social Work from the University of Pennsylvania. “The business was always an afterthought to me. It wasn’t until three years later the thought of Dahlia Rose Wellness Center came to fruition,” Djuan explains.

“In 2017, I applied for a program that helped licensed therapists develop and achieve their practice. In May of 2019, the paperwork was filed, and the following January 2020, the doors were opened for business Djuan officially launched to the world, she says a freight train came roaring out of nowhere by the name of Covid. “I didn’t know what to think. I was trying to figure out whether or

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not I’m actually going to be able to have a lucrative business or even have a business at all,” Djuan says.

Fortunately, Dahlia Rose Wellness was fruitful and became a beneficial service for people in April 2020, mainly because everyone needed guidance, and Djuan was positioned to provide it.

Since launching in 2020, the business has grown significantly, with Djuan being able to service a wide range of women, especially women of color. It’s success can be attributed their commitment to provide the best possible experience every day.

Djuan follows up her practices with journaling, yoga, and an emotional advisory team to keep her focused. “Since I’m a big advocate of practicing what you preach, I do the things that I preach to my clients,” she says. “I also invest very heavily in myself. I have a business coach, a book coach, and a money coach. Why? When you think about a business, it’s not just about creating a business to serve other people. You are truly creating a business to service yourself, and the business is only as good as you are in terms of how you take care of yourself at the end of the day.”

Consistency, collaboration,self-exploration, and balance are core values that Djuan lives by. Her goal is to show up in her clients’ lives and help them explore who they are and what they want out of life. Finding these things can help produce balance and self-esteem that others dream they could have.

For example, a client of hers received a big offer from a job they were practicing for. While trying to hold back tears, Djuan was able to get her client to use her voice and trust herself. “Moments like that make me realize this is why I do what I do. It’s just reassuring and validating that my work is transformative.”

Djuan believes that being a constant learner, observer, and seeking wisdom and guidance from other people aids her business and grows it more. To add, this is what makes her work enjoyable. “Being able to be a positive presence and create my own working conditions, makes it all worth it,” she says.

Expansion is something that Djuan is considering in the near future. She would love to expand her clientele and staff and develop her coaching program.

In addition, she would love to add different sources of income.

Djuan short also works with organizations such as ODAAP . She is also a board member on Dacha , which helps promote family planning and addresses teen violence and abuse.

www.dahliarosewellness.com

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To learn more about Dahlia Rose Wellness, please visit their website. h

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Steve Gardner & Kaleik Hayes

ChildHoodLost Entertainment Group

By Gamal Williams - Photos by ChildhoodLost Entertainment Group

Steve Gardner was one of the lucky ones growing up in South Philadelphia. At age six, his mother fell ill, yet Steve wasn’t swept up into the foster care system, another Black child endlessly waiting for a rescue that rarely comes. Family members, including the mother of his half-brother, Kaliek Hayes, stepped in and raised him. Kaliek’s mother, Regina, offered a safe environment to a child that wasn’t her own. Again, Steve was lucky.

Though young, the kindness bestowed upon him instilled a protective, nurturing spirit in Steve. “Growing up, I always tried to look out for my younger brothers and siblings. Be that caretaker. I always tried to put myself in their position, whether it was forced upon me or willingly, I always felt it was important to be that rock for my brothers and sisters.”

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Kaliek looked up to his big brother. “Steve was always just…” he pauses, trying to gather the words to adequately express his heart, “… he was just that rock. He always looked after me. I remember he would take me with him to his job. I was like 10 and he was 15. It didn’t matter, he always looked out for me.” Steve explains he wouldn’t have it any other way.

“I just wanted to make sure he wasn’t on the streets. So, I kept him with me pretty much everywhere I went.” All of that changed when Steve was 17, Kaliek was 12. A boy from the neighborhood brought a gun to the basketball court they were playing on.

“None of us thought the gun was real, it looked fake,” recalls Kaliek. “We thought it was a starter pistol,” continues Steve. “So, I asked to see the gun, another kid had it, and he fired the gun.”

The bullet struck a dear friend of Steve and Kaliek’s, entering the back of his skull and exiting his cheek. The boys watched in horror as their friend died in front of them.

“All I could think was ‘I don’t ever want to be in that position again.’ I don’t own a gun, haven’t touched a gun, and this was over thirty something years ago.” Steve says somberly.

“It still affects us to this day, it changed us. We went on different paths; me the straight and narrow; Kaliek a more seedy one.”

For Kaliek, the trauma, and the inability to express how he felt, started a cycle of self-destruction. “He was a good friend of mine, like, he was someone I could just talk to, ya’ know? After that, and everything that happened after, I just didn’t respect anyone.

I was a good kid up until then. I went from doing good in school, making sure the house was clean before my mother got home, to carrying a gun and running the streets.

Something just snapped for me.”

www.childhoodslostentgroup.com

Kaliek became one of the many children swept up into the trappings of the streets, his childhood lost due to unaddressed trauma.

At age 16, his mother put him out when she discovered drugs in their home. By age 18, he was a father of three and in federal prison on drug related charges. Prison is supposed to provide rehabilitation, yet Kaliek found something different; an unexpected mentor presented itself. “I met man in prison. He had a lot of time, but he was so positive. He humbled me, made see things differently. I would write Steve and tell him that when I came home, we needed to do something ‘cause I didn’t want to come back to prison.”

Kaliek began writing, telling not only his experiences, but those of friends and Philadelphia - July/August 2021

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acquaintances, humanizing children that looked and sounded and lived like he did. He presented his collection of writings to Steve, who became inspired and began contributing to the stories. When it was done, the brothers released their literary work, a book titled “ChildHood Lost.”

“We had no way to advertise it though.

We took the book to a brother we knew, Bilal Islam. He was writing and directing plays and he loved it,” states Steve. With Bilal’s help, ChildHood Lost the book, became ChildHood Lost the play. “We write plays about kids, for kids, and talk to the real things they go through,” Kaliek states.

According to www.childhoodlostentgroup. com, the ChildHoodLost Entertainment Group has a simple mission, “to passionately using theater to showcase art with a purpose as both an intervention and preventative tool.”

ChildHoodLost takes a different approach to the medium of theater. Violence, promiscuity, substance abuse, trauma, and crime are just some of the topics their 14 plays have addressed since debuting in 2012. The play “LEGACY: A Story of Boys that Moved Men” took a unique approach on Black History, telling the tale of a man that falls asleep only to meet Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Marcus Garvey, and Malcolm X as teenagers. “After the Eulogy” depicts a support group for parents, trying to cope with the loss of their children after gun violence. “The -N- Word” fostered constructive dialogue about racism.

Theater isn’t the only way ChildHoodLost engages with Philadelphia’s youth. Chess Chat, a program where children meet with mentors at the Urban Art Gallery in West Philadelphia (as well as online) to play chess.

Chess Chat’s motto? In life, as in chess, forethought wins. “It’s more than just chess.

We actually talk with the kids while we play.

Talk to them about whatever is on their minds,” Steve proudly explains.

It’s a simple, yet powerful concept, harkening to a saying often used in the Black community; Each one, teach one. Steve and Kaliek have used theater and chess as a vehicle to not only reach and teach children, but to set the example for adults as well. As a January 16th, 2020 ChildHoodLost Foundation Facebook post states “If you want to change our city, start with grabbing up ONE youngin’ and teach them All You Know!” Steve and Kaliek don’t need the lights or the cameras.

They have taken action! h

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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

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1921 - 2021

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By Terry L. Watson Photos by Hot Sams Detroit

In an era where it may be more convenient to purchase causal or formal menswear, a stand-alone clothing store has managed to remain at the top of its game for an astonishing 100 years. Today, Hot Sams Detroit Detroit is enjoying the rewards of perseverance and continues to deliver exceptional products and quality customer service.

The Hot Sams Detroit brand has always been synonymous with High Quality Detroit Style. The store has always been planted in downtown Detroit. The story began in 1921, when Sam Freedman, who was Jewish, opened the doors of Hot Sams Detroit to the public. In the beginning, they had a reputation for having the lowest prices in the city, leaving many to assume that their products were stolen or hot; this is where the name “Hot Sams Detroit” originated.

As time passed, the Freedman family was joined by current owners Tony Stovall and Cliff G. Green. Both started as salesmen in 1974 and rose to the rank of top salesmen. They both worked there until the opportunity to purchase the store presented itself in 1994, preserving the Hot Sams Detroit Legacy.

Hot Sams Detroit Detroit is exclusively a men’s clothing store. There is a tailor shop located on-site and available for both men and women. “We’re known for suits, but as of late, our clients have been those needing casual wear. I have seen an increase in the number of weddings, proms and special occasions, even in the midst of the Covid 19 pandemic. Unfortunately, there has been an increase in business due to funerals for the victims who succumb to the virus,” shares Lauren Stovall, the Business Lead and Legacy Preserver for Hot Sams Detroit. She is also the daughter of Tony Stovall.

Lauren Stovall Business Lead & Legacy Preserver for Hot Sams Detroit

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As a response to the pandemic, Lauren has worked to increase the online presence for Hot Sams Detroit. Their website has been revamped and is more user-friendly.

Eventually, the plan is for customers to be able to have an in-store experience online.

This means that a client will be able to select fabric, choose the style of button, input their size and fittings, and still have their suit custom made in house.

In March 2021, the city of Detroit celebrated with Hot Sams Detroit Detroit on their centennial celebration. The mayor presented them with a key to the city, and the Detroit City Council recognized them with a Hot Sams Detroit Day. On July 10th, the store produced a Black Wall Street alongside the storefront in conjunction with vendors and community members.

Tony Stovall serves as the CEO of Hot Sams Detroit Detroit. His leadership and direction have paved the way for the company to survive several decades and remain relevant in the men’s fashion scene.

A Detroit native, Tony shares he inherited his fortitude and business savviness from his father. “My father was strong and shaped me into being a strong black man.

He taught me that my word is bond. If your word isn’t good, nobody will trust you,” he says. Tony took the lessons and instructions from his father and applied them to his business. By doing so he enjoyed success.

After just one year while working with the Freedmans, he became top salesman. He then was promoted to Assistant Manager before rising to the ranks of a buyer. He was so successful that eventually, he received a percentage of the overall profits from the store.

One day, he decided to leave Hot Sams Detroit Detroit and open his own store.

The owners got word of his decision and decided to make Tony the deal of a lifetime; they wanted him to buy the store.

Tony knew that he couldn’t do it all by himself, so he called on the help of now CFO, Clifford. Tony shares how impressed he was with Clifford. Before joining the sales team that existed of five to six people back then, Clifford had owned a tailoring business and obtained a degree in Business from the University of Detroit. He also was a good salesman, and forming a partnership with him made good sense to Tony.

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Clifford was born in Alabama but moved to Detroit at the age of six. In high school, and took a tailoring class and learned to sew and make clothing. While in the 10th grade, he entered a co-op program and worked at a retail store after school. After high school, he attended The University of Detroit and graduated in 1974. He then got a job JL Hudson as a buyer, then became a department manager before leaving to start a tailoring business of his own with someone else. This venture lasted for a while before life guided him to Hot Sams Detroit. “I saw an advertisement for a salesman in the paper. It was interesting. He applied and got the job, and now many years later, I am still here,” he says.

To gain ownership of Hot Sams Detroit, in 1994, the duo obtained a business loan. In just a few years, they repaid their loan in full. Each brings something different and unique to the table, helping their company keep the wheels turning and doors open.

Cliff G. Green CFO, Hot Sams Detroit

Tony Stovall CEO, Hot Sams Detroit

In 2004, they moved from 1317 Brush Street into their current location at 127 Monroe Avenue. While the amount of square footed has been reduced, the brand is still held intact.

In 2015, they C]celebrated a Grand Reopening with the sponsorship of Bedrock Detroit to reveal new store renovations and a fresh product line, including a new line of suits called Power Collection.

Being involved in their community and giving back is very important for Hot Sams Detroit Detroit. In 1996, Hot Sams Detroit began hosting an annual black-tie in-store fundraiser for the Lou Rawls United Negro College Fund (UNCF). The event brought out the “whos who of Detroit,” and they raised $250,000 for the organization over a span of five years. In 1999, Hot Sams Detroit began working with the Detroit Public School system, participating in mentorship programs, career days, and Dress For Success initiatives.

Moving forward, both Tony and Clifford plan to keep doing things the same. Lauren’s excitement has brought new energy to Hot Sams Detroit Detroit, and things will only get better from here.

To learn more about Hot Sams Detroit Detroit, please visit their website.

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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.

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“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.

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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 25

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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.

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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.”

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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 Philadelphia - July/August 2021

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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.

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“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 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.

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“

“

When we tap into our inner strength and into the support that is around us the sky is the limit.

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.

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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 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

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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 36

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“Black is not the absence of color, it’s a particular color…there are seven (colors of black). They all may look the same, but when you stack them on top of each other, the variations are more pronounced. That means I have a palette that is just as complex as any other color on the spectrum.”

-Kerry James Marshall Artist, from the film Black Art: In the Absence of Light

By Gamal Williams Photos by Ukwensi Jones

Black artists and their work have long been marginalized as untrained, uneducated, and lesser than their White counterparts.

The terms “Black art” and “Black artists” by definition prove this marginalization. The artist is seen as Black first, and then through a less than approving lens, their work is viewed in its own little box, unworthy of comparison to the likes of a Rembrandt, a Van Gogh, a Picasso, or a Warhol. The aren’t seen as impressionists, abstractists, sculptors, cubists, expressionists, or realists. They are merely Black artists that make Black art that only Black people could understand and appreciate. Ukwensi Chappel sees art as art.

In 2018, Ukwensi Chappell opened Gallerie Ukwensi, located in the Ghent District of Norfolk. Ukwensi (he explains it’s pronunciation in his energetic tones as “Oooo, Quincy”), opened Gallerie Ukwensi to do what other gallery’s wouldn’t: expose and educate people to the beauty of art crafted by Black artists. A tour through his gallery reveals something deeper, something powerful and beautiful, rooted in centuries of exclusion. Ukwensi takes the time to greet every customer, young or old, Black, White or purple, rich or poor. He doesn’t just greet people; he engages with them.

Ukwensi, or “Uki” as his friends call him, watched as I marveled at the beauty held on his walls. As I leaned in to admire a piece, Uki would offer the story behind the art, revealing something special and personal about the artist that inspired the work. When asked why he knew so much about not only a particular piece, but the artists themselves, he said “Most gallery’s in the area didn’t greet me when I came in, and if they did, they didn’t tell me about the art. But every piece has a story, and every story was an experience by the artist.”

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Ukwensi’s art, rich abstracts made of layers of crushed glass and pigments suspended in clear enamel that form 3-dimensional kaleidoscopes, line the main wall. Uki calls his work “My windows to your imagination.” No matter what you think you see in his work, its correct. I told him I saw a deep sea scape in one piece; an alien world in another. Uki smiled and tilted his head.

“If that is what you see, then that’s what it is.

It’s your imagination.”

As we continued the tour, I was astonished to discover the backgrounds of some of the artists. High school teachers, college students, and working class people’s work hung amongst artists that made their living solely through their art. What was more surprising, was that they weren’t all Black. “Yes, my plan was to become the #1 gallery for Black artists because they don’t get a shot. But I wanted to highlight all artists,” Uki explains. “If their art spoke to me, I wanted them in here. We have Black, White, Asian, and Hispanic artists.”

At the conclusion of our tour, Uki offered me a glass of wine or water. He then sat in the soft, leather couch below one of his pieces in the lush seating area in the heart of Gallerie Ukwensi. We were soon joined by two other artists featured in the gallery. Artist Gia Labidi, a dynamic powerhouse of triumph and beauty, and self-taught painter Ralph Thomas, whose infectious energy and slight Southern twang lights up any conversation. Gia and Ralph had no business to conduct. They were merely stopping by, an action I soon found was welcomed in Gallerie Ukwensi. To Uki, Gia and Ralph weren’t just business partners, they were friends, each with a mutual respect and appreciation for the others.

Ukwensi Chappell Gallerie Ukwensi at Ghents 424 W. 21st St. Suite 101 Norfolk, VA 23517 757-756-4480 www. gallerie-ukwensi.com

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“I was driving by on lunch one day and saw the gallery,” Gia Labidi, a sculptor and painter for more than 20 years recalls. “I gave him my card so I could be on the list to be notified of the opening. He called me not too long after and wanted my work.” Gia’s work has been displayed nationally and internationally. “Uki wants to give us a voice. He is endearing and whomever walks through that door, he engages with them.” There was pain in her voice when she spoke that last sentence. When asked why she felt Gallerie Ukwensi was important, the pain is put into words. “The only place we could be seen, was in Black gallery’s. Its irritating that White artists are just artists. They aren’t labeled,” Gia stated, “…and our art isn’t supported. It’s been 20 years since there was a black owned gallery in Ghent.”

Ralph Thomas, who taught himself using paint-by-numbers kits, echoes Gia’s sentiments.

“Most times, art gallery’s don’t even want to

speak to you if you’re a Black artist. They look at you like ‘Oh, you doin’ Black art.’ I’m like ‘No, I’m doing art that’s just as good as anything you have up in here!’” Uki nods in agreement. Then, the gallery door swings open, and three ladies enter. They are young, Black, maybe in college or attend Maury High School up the road. Uki politely excused himself and his eyes squinted as his smile pushed his cheeks into them. They are a bit surprised that not only were the greeted so fast, but that the towering man that approached them smiled. They smiled back then walked with wide eyes and gaped mouths as Ukwensi highlighted every piece. They were learning, enjoying, experiencing, and it all started with two words from Uki: “Hello. Welcome.”

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Sunflower Queen

By Dorjae McClammey Photos by Toi Cage

Let me tell you about Toi Cage. She is the owner of Sunflower Queen, a Natural Yoni care line located in Minneapolis, Minnesota. With the help of her amazing daughters, she produces terrific Yoni products for women. Toni describes Yoni care as a dedication to women’s health and womb care, and the process of detoxing ones’ womb and vaginal area, ridding it of toxins that might cause odors and infections.

Growing up, Toi tended to overhear conversations about how women and men felt about their private areas. So while studying at the University of Notre Dame, she and a friend worked to find the perfect combination of herbs and plants to make them feel healthy and beautiful. Once she saw the results it gave her, Toi was inspired to turn it into a business and help other women feel beautiful inside and out, just like it did for her.

Sunflower Queen offers many products such as plant-based yoni detox pearls, vegan rose oil, steaming seats and stools, detox herbs, womb detox tea, yoni soaps, yoni gowns, and yoni pops.

She also produces vegan yoni tightening gel, a yoni refresher spray, and a foaming wash is in the works. She also provides one-on-one yoni steaming sessions that can be performed in the privacy of her client’s home or in her office.

Toi says what she loves most about her company is providing products for women who embrace their sexual health and wellness. She also enjoys having open conversations that educate women and men about vaginal health. She shares, “Yoni care is not an offensive thing, it’s self-care.”

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Like most small business owners, some challenges presented themselves while she was getting her business started. Toi decided to start selling her products during the Corona Virus pandemic; she was prepared to jumpstart her business a couple of months before it hit and then had to stop everything. From having grand openings in stores to over 20 events over four months to push her product out, she had her hands full. All of the contracts she had obtained were now null and void, and the money she spent had to be returned. She was just about ready to give up when the opportunity arose to partner with Black Business Enterprises, which was able to help her receive great exposure for her business.

From there, she turned things up a notch and changed her approach to doing business. She began providing informational sessions at vendor events, promoting her products and natural yoni care in general. To her astonishment, Toi was even invited to showcase her products at company events. Things were starting to look a lot better for this aspiring entrepreneur.

Sunflower Queen has become very accomplished and has been nominated for a few awards, such as the New Black Business of the Year award and Customer Service of the Year award. By her third month in business, she had already hit 13,000 dollars in sales and celebrated by partnering with a Doula, delivering prenatal yoni care packages to women in her community. Toi has even had the mayor of Minneapolis inquire about products for his wife.

Her testimony proves that Toi Cage is a true hardworking hero.

“I started as a 15-year-old mother, and it wasn’t until my daughter entered college and started her own business that I decided to move forward and stop being scared. I think that’s what pushed me. I am happy to have a friend that was already dabbling in chemistry.

Once my daughter told me ‘mom you’ve taken care of everybody for so long, why don’t you have your own business?’ I thought about it. I’ve taken care of my family, survived divorce, and felt like I couldn’t let her down. When I finally started selling my products, she was my biggest cheerleader,” she says.

www.sqyoni.square.site (651) 313-4652 sunflowerqueen777@gmail.com 44

The future for Sunflower Queen is filled with amazing opportunities. Toi has received an offer to open up space in the Mall of America in Minneapolis, but she is going a step further by finding her own storefront location. So keep an eye out for all of the new products and services she has planned. The partnership with a full-time Doula should produce even more exciting products that will roll out to hospitals, ob-gyn, and wherever prenatal care is sold.

Until then, all Sunflower Queen’s products are available online, in-store at Storehouse Grocer in St. Paul Minnesota, and the Wellness Lounge in Uptown Minneapolis. To learn more about Toi and Sunflower Queen, please visit their website. h

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Lorria Grant-Eubanks A Different Stroke of Art

By Arielle Kilgore Photos by Lorria Grant-Eubanks

Everyone has a passion, but a few people get to turn it into a career. For Little Rock, AR resident Lorria Grant-Eubanks, the magic happened for her.

She is the owner of A Different Stroke of Art located in JFK North Little Rock, AR. Her studio arranges different art sessions for people who are seeking to find a passion within themselves.

A Different Stroke of Art offers silk scarf painting, summer camps for children, sip-n-paints, and art kits on the go. Other classes include pottery, private lessons, and handmade decorated face masks. Their products and services are available throughout the United States and even internationally.

During Lorria’s summer camps, she would host art classes and allow students to explore on field trips. Her groups would take the city bus and travel to museums or other historical places, searching to find the meaning of art. When Covid-19 shut down some of the exhibits, she provided yoga or social circles to help young adults express and educate themselves.

How did it all begin for Lorria? “I remember drawing and sketching as early as age two. I was really blessed with the opportunity of having parents who allowed me to follow my passion for art,” she shares.

In college, she majored in Speech Pathology and Audiology with a minor in studio art. “The bug hit me and I thought, “Oh my God,” I can do poetry. I can do this, and I can do that,” Grant-Eubanks exclaimed as she relived her college epiphany. However, she chose only the journey of speech pathology and continued her work at the University of Arkansas for Medical Science. Ironically, art would resurface and play an exciting role in her field of study. “While working with patients with severe brain damage, the only way to get patients to remember certain things was to draw,” she says.

Lorria eventually went back to school to get her Master’s in Art and taught students for over a decade. Lorria has found a way to teach kids and adults to express themselves through art. Her reason for teaching, she shares its her natural love of people.

“People inspire me. Just to be able to talk to an individual, find out who they are, and where they came from really motivates me.

Seeing people enjoy art inspires me.” Her students and clients come back for her inviting presence as a free spirit and loving person, not just to draw.

Lorria passion goes beyond her business. She says that art is something that everyone can do, engaging the community to come together. It also provides a form of therapy. She desires to teach art to young adults or seniors with mental disabilities. In her previous line of work, art helped patients express or communicate.

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All in all, A Different Stroke of Art serves as a safe space and open service for Lorria’s customers. Nevertheless, she wants everyone to know that her space is for those who need it. Her logo, an African American painter in overalls, and a paintbrush behind her back are just that. In light of this, she sees the challenge and misconception that it may bring to have a wider audience. The studios’ goal is for people to love and for every person to experience the joy of painting no matter who you are. “The paintbrush doesn’t decide who gets to create the picture. It just wants an artist to use them.”

As for her plans for the next year, Lorria hopes to expand her business.

Expansion is not only her goal, but a dream she shared with a friend. “My friend suffered from mental illness, and was not able to carry out the dream with me. However, I’m going to do it for the both of us,” she says.

Once approved of a government grant, she would be able to place different services in bigger, better rooms. She could also move her program, “Artistically Speaking,” in a space by itself to cater to more kids.

Just like “Artistically Speaking,” there are other community services that Lorria participates in. Pulaski County youth services partake in an afterschool art program taught by her. She transferred to online classes during the pandemic and eventually made free kits to-go for the whole county. She also works with URL Children’s International afterschool art program. As a collaborative piece with her husband, they would have a night of music and painting. As her students served the guest, the public could listen to jazz and paint their art kit provided to them. The following year, she created Valentine’s Day baskets for couples in the pandemic.

“It just brings me joy to see how the Lord has opened up so many doors for me, allowing me to share what I love with the world.” h

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