This is the sixth issue of AMPS Magazine, Michigan Edition. I want to take this time to congratulate A.M.P.S. (American-Minority People Succeeding) Cleveland franchise on a great job they are doing in the community in providing good stories and educating the community.
This is where Substance and Style Meets Supreme Standards. Our mission is “superior application development through dedicated professionalism while maintaining a customer-centered focus to lead the industry in ideas and creative solutions”. Our events marketing and promotions department is designed to present positive entertainment and events that the Michigan communities deserve.
We specialize in helping brands create a unique connection with consumers at our events as well as create an opportunity for you to meet other business owners, executives, present and future customers, and other socialites. Simply put, “We’re Accomplished By Making You Successful.”
Gerald D. Wright, CEO
letter from the publisher
Blessings to all. I’m excited to bring you the final issue of the year for AMPS Cleveland and AMPS Michigan Magazines. Thank you for supporting AMPS Magazines through all of 2025. We have brought you many exciting, intriguing, informative and entertaining issues. I’d like to thank King Syxx for the Cover and Cover story for Cleveland AMPS Magazine and Chef Chay for the Cover and cover story for AMPS Detroit Magazine. AMPS Cleveland is full of amazing melanated events, our missing and found children, icons, legends and legacies. AMPS Detroit is over flowing with Melanated events and businesses, posters of our missing women, an introduction to the first Female Mayor of Detroit, icons and legends.
Enjoy both magazines. This year it has been a true pleasure bringing you these publications.
Again AMPS Magazine would like to Thank Cleveland and The D for their unconditional support and unwavering love. AMPS Staff is sending out prayers, blessings and safety to all.
Happy New Year AMPS looks forward to bringing you more exciting and compelling articles in the New Year.
AMPS Ohio Magazine & AMPS Michigan Magazine
Publisher Romeo Barnes
Thank you for your continued support.
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Oyotunji Yoruba African Kingdom
There is a hidden melanated treasure in South Carolina. This treasure connects our people to Africa by being the oldest authentic African Kingdom in the United States.
Oyotunji Yoruba African Kingdom located in Sheldon, Beaumont County, South Carolina was founded in 1970 by Oba Efuntola Oseijeman Adelabu Adefunmi. This village is home to the Yoruba tribe. They practice the traditional Yoruba culture and the core business of the Kingdom according to their website is to serve in the elevation of humanity’s understanding and appreciation of the genius, highly technical, social and Royal hierarchy of African people. The institution of OAV serves as a real-time reminder of the sociology and African world view contribution made to society by African ancestors of antiquity. “
The founder Oba Efuntola Oseijeman Adelabu Adefunmi, is the grandson of a Trans Atlantic slave, he traced his roots to the Oyo Kingdom and wanted to bring in that tradition to North America and for the Yoruba tribe.
At one time there was up to 200 people living at the Kingdom, today there is under 50 people that live regularly at the Kingdom. The Kingdom is open
to the public with tours, events, workshops and more. The last festival of the year was the Obaluaiye Festival which was celebrated October 31 – November 2025.
In keeping with the culture at the Oyotunji you will see authentic clothing, traditional meals, you will experience their traditional housing, as well as traditional festivals and dance.
Rich in culture the Kingdom is a way to experience the culture of this African tribe without having to go to travel to Africa. Their goal is to create global solidarity among our people, and by showing how strong and intelligent Africans and African Americans are.
The founder Oba (King) passed away in 2005, his son Adejuyigbe Adefunnmi II became the new Oba until his tragic death in 2024. Today until a new Oba is appointed the Village is being lead by a council of elders.
What are the Benefits…
Black Pepper, Turmeric and Ginger
There are many natural ingredients when used together form a powerful benefit for your overall health. Today we must take charge of our health to ensure that our bodies are ready for the harsh weather that winter can bring.
One powerful trio is black pepper, turmeric and ginger each ingredient is amazing by itself but together they pack a mighty punch.
Many people know that Turmeric and Ginger work well on inflammation, but what do all of these spices offer for overall health.
Ginger helps with digestion as well as nausea and is a great source for antioxidants. Gingers also help with those that deal with osteoarthritis and dyspepsia.
Turmeric is beneficial to those that deal with any condition that causes inflammation such as rheumatoid arthritis, The main ingredient in Turmeric is Curcumin, Curcumin helps with damaged DNA Cells and other cell damage. Turmeric helps with certain cancers and cardiovascular disease.
Black pepper enhances nutrient absorption, particularly that of turmeric’s curcumin. Black pepper’s is a source of Piperine which makes up the taste and smell of pepper. This is what helps with pepper’s absorption effect. This helps with respiratory as well. One of the added bonuses of black pepper is the ability to fight fat cells which also helps with weight loss. Black pepper also helps fight infections.
The mixture of theses 3 spices may help ease pain, especially related to arthritis, joint inflammation, infections, respiratory issues, weight lost, absorption and more. Add these ingredients to your grocery list to help improve your overall health.
Chef Chay: Cleveland’s Next Culinary Star
Born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio, Chayanne Padgett, professionally known as Chef Chay, is an ambitious young chef making her mark in the culinary world. As the founder of Chay’s Soul Kitchen, established in 2021, she has quickly become known for her authentic soul food and undeniable passion for her craft.
Chef Chay discovered her love for cooking at just five years old. While most children were watching cartoons, she was captivated by the Food Network—drawing inspiration from culinary icons like Sara Lee, Emeril Lagasse, and Rachael Ray. That early spark grew into a deep-rooted passion that continues to guide her journey today.
Currently attending Cuyahoga Community College’s School of Hospitality, Chef Chay is pursuing her Professional Culinarian Degree, set to graduate in December 2025. Through hard work and determination, she continues to refine her skills while building her brand and balancing the demands of school and entrepreneurship.
Life’s obstacles and moments of grief almost caused her to walk away from her dream, but her resilience and faith reminded her that she had people to make proud—and a purpose to fulfill. That drive continues to push her toward greatness every single day.
With a mission to expand Chay’s Soul Kitchen into a full-service restaurant in Cleveland and eventually grow into a chain of soul food establishments, Chef Chay’s vision is rooted in community, flavor, and legacy. Her story is one of perseverance, passion, and purpose—a reminder that when talent meets determination, greatness is inevitable.
Chef Chay isn’t just cooking food—she’s creating experiences, inspiring others, and proving that with heart and hard work, dreams truly can rise from the kitchen.
From childhood passion to professional purpose — Cleveland’s very own Chef Chay is serving soul, flavor, and inspiration one plate at a time.
SCAN WITH PHONE
SCAN WITH PHONE
Diarra Kilpatrick
This Detroit native is an actress, writer and producer. Her hot series Diarra From Detroit is shown on BET. The Mystery series is set in Detroit and has gained national attention for Diarra Kilpatrick who also stars as the main character of the series. Kilpatrick stated that there has never been a series like this. The main character who is a school teacher was stood up by her Tinder date and disappeared. While the series is based in Kilpatrick’s hometown it is actually now filmed in New Jersey due to a lack of film credit incentives.
Diarra Kilpatrick has appeared in Perry Mason and American Koko which she also wrote and produced on YouTube. The series caught the attention of Julius Tennon, the husband of Viola Davis. The series was developed through their production company, JuVee Productions,[4] and was purchased by ABC.
Diarra Kilpatrick is one to watch this talented writer, producer and actress is steadily rising.
Legendary Great
Mohammed Ali
The Greatest of all Time Boxing Champion of the World; Muhammad Ali was born Cassious Clay on January 17 1942. This Boxing Legend began his career at the age of 12 and by the age of 22 was the Heavyweight Champion of the world. In 1964 Muhammad won the heavyweight Championship by defeating Sonny Liston and the rest is history.
Changing his name from Cassious Clay to Mohammed Ali to declaring he would not join the military during the draft made him an instant hero, and leader to melanated people around the world. Mohammed was the people’s champ. Known for his fancy footwork, his trash talking rhymes and pretty boy looks Mohammed declared he was the greatest and had the skill set to prove it.
With many career highs from the Rumble in Jungle to his career matches with other all time greats. Mohammed was named fighter of the year 6 times, Sports Man of the year, Fighter of the
decade, and was one of the 1st inductees into the International Boxing Hall of Fame. Mohammed’s boxing career is unprecedented. According to the World Boxing Council Mohammed Ali is the Greatest Heavyweight Champion of all times. Mohammed would retire in 1981. He would go on to do philanthropy work, activism and focus on family and religion. Diagnosis with Parkinson’s Disease, Mohammed Ali passed away June 3rd 2016.
Mohammed Ali’s Legacy consist of 7 children, awards through out his life and works. Mohammed is an inspiration to not only boxers but artists in the hip hop world for his poetic flow and the community for all of the work he put in for the people and equality.
Mohammed Ali Boxing Legend
Legendary Great
Laila Ali
This Boxing Legend had big gloves to fill. Born Laila Amaria Ali on December 30th 1977 Laila is the daughter of boxing Legend Mohammed Ali and Veronica Ali. Though laterHer parents divorced, Mohammed remained the doting father and hero to Laila. Laila went through her troubled phase as a youth, but turned herself around and became a young entrepreneur owning her own nail salon at the age of 16. By the time Laila reached 18 she had set her sights on becoming a professional boxer. At the beginning Laila’s Father did not want her to box. One because of his faith as a Muslim. But Laila pursued the career of her dreams and followed in Mohammed ‘s footsteps.
Laila became a force to recon with. Her career began in 1999 and when Laila fought her first fight many took notice because she was Muhammad Ali’s daughter but by her 9th win in a row they knew she was a serious contender. In 2001 with many fans wanting a fight between Laila and Joe Frazier s daughter or George Foreman’s daughter, Laila and Jacqui Frazier took to the ring. This fight was the first pay per view fight for women. Laila went on to win the fight. Laila retired from boxing in 2007 with 24 fights and 24 wins as Light Heavyweight Champion. She retired undefeated and was hailed as the greatest female boxer of all time. This Boxing Legend went on to be a model, television personality, entrepreneur, author, fitness advocate and motivational speaker. Today she is still challenged as a fighter.
Laila is married with two children and was recently signed with a new talent agency and has not come out of retirement to step back into the ring.
The New Mayor of Detroit
Mary Sheffield has made history becoming the City of Detroit’s First Female Mayor. Not a stranger to politics born and raised in Detroit Mary Sheffield comes from a long line of leaders in her family. She is the sitting President of City Council and was the youngest person elected to City Council at 26 and then became the youngest President of City Council to date. Mayor Elect Sheffield is also an ordained Minister.
Mayor elect Mary Sheffield told the crowd at her victory speech “Tonight our city adds another chapter to its great history. Throughout Detroit’s 324-year history, 75 mayors have led this city. Not one has been a woman. But tonight, Detroit, we know that changes. And you changed it Detroit!”
AMERICA’S DEADLIEST SHOOTINGS ARE ONES WE DON’T TALK ABOUT
On any given day in America, an average of 65 of our mothers, brothers, partners, and friends are taken from us by gun suicide. And in Missouri, the majority of gun deaths are suicides. But tomorrow’s deaths could be prevented. Give your loved ones a second chance at life. Store your guns safely: locked, unloaded, and away from ammo.
Mary’s Grandfather Horace Sheffield Jr fought for justice on the front lines during the 60’s in Detroit. Now 60 years later his granddaughter is Mayor. Her father Horace Sheffield III is a well known Minister in Detroit.
The Mayor said she will not forget the neighborhood that asked for help, and she acknowledged that in her speech “I’ve heard you loud and clear Detroit, throughout this campaign, ‘Don’t forget about the neighborhoods,’ and I tell you we won’t. Together, we will invest in every corner of our city.”
A much loved Council President is now a much loved Mayor. Congratulations Mayor Mary Sheffield Amps will be watching.
Ballerina India Bradley
India Bradley is a prima ballerina with the New York Ballet. India is a native Detroiter who has been dancing since the age of 4. India has made history by becoming the first melanated soloist for the dance company in 77 years. India’s role as Dewdrop in the Nutcracker is historic as being the first Black Ballerina in that role. A true advocate for black dancers and diversity in the arts, India knows this is a dream role for any ballerina but history in the making for a black ballerina. India has been with the dance company for 17 years. India studied under. Andrea Long who was a principle ballerina with the Dance Theater of Harlem and former dancer with the New York Ballet
According to reports Black people account for only 4% of ballet dancers. India indicated that these roles were not created with melanated people in mind for these roles and that exposure to the Art of Ballet was not always affordable for melanated patrons but was originally for the affluent. With companies like The Dance Theater of Harlem, The Alvin Ailey Dance Company and Ballerinas like Judith Jamison, Misty Copeland and India Bradley the face of Ballet is advancing, opening doors and breaking ceiling for other dancers. Here at AMPS Magazine we are here to celebrate and support.
There are not enough words to express the love and gratitude I have for you. You raised me to respect myself and to know who I am. You were my biggest supporter, and I miss you every day, I carry your strength and lessons with me always. Thank you for the unconditional love you gave me. There is not a day that goes by that I don’t think of you and the guidance and wisdom you poured into me. You leave a legacy that will with stand the test of time, through me and your grandchildren. The bond we shared will never be broken, you’re the greatest mother anyone could ask for, I pray as you watch over me that I’m making you proud. I love you Mom.
Your son Romeo
Marlene ”Scorp” Barnes
MISSING WOMEN
Let’s continue to keep our eyes, ears and hearts open to finding our missing children Children across the nation continues to disappear. It takes all of us to bring them home safely. Let’s do our part.
