This is the nineth issue of AMPS Magazine, Louisiana Edition. I wanted to thank each and every one of you for reading this magazine and making it one of the fastest growing magazines in the south in 2025 We are touching the lives of people who we did not even know we would and inspire even a culture that we were unaware. This publication is called A.M.P.S. (American-Minority People Succeeding) for a reason. It 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 event marketing and promotions department is designed to present positive entertainment and events that the Louisiana 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 are Accomplished By Making You Successful.”
Gerald D. Wright CEO
from the publisher
As we are in mid 2025, AMPS Magazine Louisiana edition is excited to continue its journey of serving and connecting with the vibrant communities across Louisiana. Our commitment to sharing stories that matter, big or small, is what drives us forward. We believe every community has a unique story to tell, and we are here to help you share yours. Whether you’re a business owner looking to expand your reach or someone with a passion for community involvement, we want to help amplify your voice. We also take pride in motivating the next generation by showing kids that they can achieve anything with determination and hard work. Join us in this exciting year of growth and opportunity—together, we can continue to support and uplift our communities. For more information about advertising or to subscribe, reach out to us at connie@ampsmagazine.com or call (214) 937-9041.
Thank you for your continued support.
Connie Morgan
Inspiring Model
Bryson McDowell will be a junior at West Monroe High School in West Monroe, Louisiana, with big dreams and a strong sense of self. He’s not only an accomplished powerlifter, having squatted as much as 305 pounds, but he also has aspirations of becoming a model one day. Bryson’s love for artistic expression is what drives his desire to pursue modeling, believing that it could open many doors for him. Aside from his athletic and modeling ambitions, Bryson’s favorite subject is history, as he enjoys learning about the past and how life was in different eras. His grandmother serves as a major source of inspiration for him; Bryson admires how she supports him and others, even when she is dealing with her own challenges.
Looking ahead, Bryson dreams of becoming a criminal psychologist, fascinated by how different brains work and hoping to understand the minds of individuals who have committed heinous acts. He believes that understanding their mental processes could help prevent others from making similar choices. Additionally, Bryson has an interest in welding for practical purposes, wanting to develop a skill that could serve him in the future. Outside of his studies and goals, Bryson enjoys drawing self-portraits and listening to music, with a particular love for the Y2K fashion style. Confident in his independence and knowledge, he is adaptable and ready to face whatever challenges life may present. Bryson is not only focused on his future but also on staying true to himself and his passions along the way.
Focused On Helping Others
A’mya Tatum, a proud native of Louisiana, is preparing to enter her senior year of high school with a clear vision for her future. As a dedicated member of her school’s ROTC program for the past three years, A’mya made the decision early on to pursue a career in the military, specifically the Navy or the Army. “I already had the mind of going to the Navy or the Army after high school,” she explains. “And it was going to help put me in a higher rank instead of starting at the bottom.” Through ROTC, A’mya has not only prepared herself for a military path but also found joy in giving back. “I like how we help the community, make the community get better and do a lot for the community,” she says. Her commitment to personal growth and service extends beyond ROTC, as she has also been actively involved in JAG (Jobs for America’s Graduates) since her freshman year. JAG, she explains, is connected to ROTC and provides students with practical skills such as job readiness, interview techniques, and life planning—tools that help them thrive beyond high school. A’mya plans to become a nurse in the Navy, driven by a passion for helping people when they are sick and supporting others in finding their way in life.
Science, especially biology, is her favorite subject because she enjoys learning about animals and chemical processes. “My favorite animal is a shark,” she adds. “They don’t harm people unless they feel threatened, and they can only see from the side.” A’mya’s insightfulness and compassion extend to her views on bullying, a topic she feels strongly about. “People shouldn’t bully other people because they never know what people are going through,” she says. “They should really ask what people are going through to understand where they’re coming from. Bullying can make somebody want to commit suicide, and that’s not good at all.” A’mya’s strength, empathy, and dedication to helping others make her a powerful example of leadership and kindness, and her future in the Navy as a nurse is a natural extension of the care she already brings to those around her.
New Regional Champion
Brain Auston Jr, more commonly known as BJ Auston has already made quite a name for himself in his high school career. Hailing from Monroe, Louisiana, BJ’s journey to becoming an accomplished football player and powerlifting champion began in his early years. Initially introduced to the world of flag football in second grade, BJ’s natural athleticism was clear even at a young age. However, like many athletes, he faced the challenge of transitioning from flag football to contact sports as he outgrew the limitations of the flag game. This transition was not an easy one, as BJ was unable to play sports for a couple of years. But instead of letting this setback hinder him, BJ used this time to focus on building his strength and conditioning. With the help of his father, Brain Senior began working out together to regain the strength and fitness he had lost, setting the stage for his return to the field. BJ’s determination and resilience paid off when he returned to the gridiron in eighth grade, eager to prove himself. Now a 2025 graduate of Caldwell Parish High School, BJ has grown into an impressive dual-sport athlete, excelling both as an offensive tackle (OT) and defensive end (DE) for his high school football team. For BJ, football isn’t just a game; it’s a commitment to doing his best for himself and his team. In interviews, BJ explains that when he’s on the field, his focus is laser-sharp. He isn’t concerned with anything outside of what’s in front of him and what his job requires. BJ’s goal is clear: to perform at his best and help his team win. His dedication to the game and to his personal growth is evident in his hard work, both on the field and off.
While football has always been BJ’s passion, he has also developed a strong interest in powerlifting. This interest, he says, was initially inspired by his father, who was also a weightlifter during his high school days. As BJ began working out alongside his dad, he quickly noticed changes in his body and strength. Watching himself grow stronger, BJ realized that powerlifting could directly benefit his football game. For BJ, powerlifting isn’t just about lifting heavy weights; it’s about improving his overall performance on the field by building strength. His hard work in powerlifting culminated in an outstanding achievement when he broke the North Regional high school powerlifting deadlift record, lifting an impressive 645 pounds and becoming the North Regional champion. This accomplishment not only solidified BJ’s reputation as a formidable athlete but also earned him widespread recognition for his dedication and strength. Looking toward the future, BJ has already made plans for his post-graduation life. After completing high school, BJ intends to attend Louisiana Christian University (LCU), where he will continue both his education and football career. At
LCU, BJ plans to major in finance, a decision that came after careful thought and consideration. Initially, BJ had considered pursuing mechanical engineering because of his fascination with how things work and his love for hands-on work. However, after researching the field and understanding the academic demands, BJ realized that engineering might not be the best fit for him. His decision to major in finance came from a deep interest in money and its role in the world. BJ has always been drawn to the idea of managing money—whether it’s his own or that of others—and he believes that finance will give him the tools to not only understand money but also to thrive in a career that revolves around financial management.
BJ’s passion for finance is tied to his desire for independence and financial security. Since junior high, BJ has been motivated by the idea of working for himself and making his own money. He’s never wanted to depend on anyone for financial support, and pursuing a degree in finance is his way of ensuring that he can take control of his financial future. By learning how to manage finances, BJ hopes to create wealth not only for himself but also for others, through smart investments and financial strategies.
When he’s not hitting the gym or dominating on the football field, BJ enjoys one of his favorite pastimes: fishing. For BJ, fishing is more than just a hobby—it’s an escape, a way to relax and clear his mind. He describes the calmness of being on the water and the thrill that comes with reeling in a big fish. The experience of watching the cork sink and feeling the weight of the catch is something BJ finds exhilarating, and it offers him a quiet moment of reflection away from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
As a student and an athlete, BJ is also mindful of the pressures that come with balancing his goals and responsibilities. He recognizes that high school can be a time of temptation and distraction, but he stresses the importance of staying focused. BJ believes that setting goals and keeping a clear vision of the future is essential for success. Even when the challenges and stresses of life feel overwhelming, he remains steadfast in his pursuit of his goals. He understands that education is key to his future and is committed to maintaining good grades and putting in the effort required to reach his full potential.
Despite the growing attention surrounding his powerlifting achievements, BJ remains humble and grounded. He admits that he doesn’t let the praise or recognition affect him. Whether he is being watched or not, BJ is determined to get the job done. His humility is a trait that his family, especially his mother, takes great pride in. His mom speaks highly of BJ’s character, describing him as a quiet and humble young man who remains focused on what truly matters.
As BJ approaches graduation, he is ready to take on the next chapter of his life. With a strong foundation built on hard work, determination, and a clear sense of purpose, BJ Auston is well-equipped to face whatever challenges lie ahead. Whether
Who adopted who?
on the football field, in the weight room, or in the classroom, BJ’s focus, resilience, and ambition will no doubt continue to drive him toward success. We wish him all the best as he prepares to take his talents to Louisiana Christian University and beyond. Congratulations, BJ!
Adopt a teen. You can’t imagine the reward.
Considering the number of disasters that have occurred in the past decade, chances are you’ll experience some sort of emergency. Between school, sports and other activities, chances are you won’t be with your kids when it happens.
Ready.gov/kids has the tools to make preparing easy and even fun, so your kids can feel… Prepared, not scared.
Technology LUCID GRAVITY
Committed To Her Community
Korie
Harris, born and reared in Monroe, Louisiana, is a shining example of academic excellence, resilience, and community commitment. A proud graduate of Ouachita High School, Korie finished with a perfect 4.0 GPA—an achievement she has impressively maintained since elementary school. When asked whether she had to study hard to earn such grades or if it came naturally, she candidly shared that while learning felt easier during her elementary and middle school years, the shift in academic intensity began in high school, especially when she started taking college-level courses. “I wouldn’t say it was hard,” she noted, “but it was definitely challenging to adapt to.” Recognizing that her old study habits wouldn’t suffice, she made deliberate changes, learning to buckle down and treat her academic journey with a new level of seriousness. For Korie, her grades became a reliable source of pride and identity—something she could point to and confidently say, “This is what I’m good at.” That pivotal moment came during her junior year, often dubbed the hardest in high school, when she intensified her focus to ensure she met the academic standards of her dream college. Though she initially wanted to attend school out of state, Korie ultimately chose Louisiana State University (LSU) in Baton Rouge, drawn by the combination of family ties, financial benefits, and the vibrant atmosphere of the city. She spoke highly of LSU’s welcoming community, its vast campus, and the countless opportunities it presented. Visiting the campus confirmed her decision—it felt like home. Financially, LSU’s support was instrumental. She earned several scholarships, including the Pelican Promise scholarship and one for honors students, along with support from the Pell Grant. With these awards, Korie received a full ride, eliminating the need for additional financial aid—something she expressed deep gratitude for. But her academic prowess didn’t stop with her GPA. When she first took the ACT, she scored a 20. Determined to improve, she worked closely with her teachers and a professor affiliated with her school to strengthen her English and math skills. Through consistent practice and ACT prep courses, she raised her score to a 26. “Honestly, I was impressed,” she recalled. “It’s not that I didn’t think it would work, but just the fact that it worked so well made me feel good—not just about myself, but about how much my teachers helped me too.” Korie’s academic ambitions are matched by her passion for science and her dream of a future in healthcare. She plans to pursue a bachelor’s degree in biological sciences at LSU, driven by a fascination with the human body and a love for chemistry and laboratory work. “Learning about how the different systems work together—it just fascinates me,” she said. Although she’s still exploring her options, Korie is leaning toward a career in radiology, with pharmacy as another potential path. Her interest in radiology is rooted in real-world experience—she shadowed radiologists in hos-
pitals and conducted her own research, ultimately falling in love with the field. She’s always known she wanted to be in the medical field but realized nursing wasn’t quite the right fit. Radiology, on the other hand, offered the kind of scientific inquiry and technical engagement that excites her. In addition to her academic and career pursuits, Korie is deeply involved in her community. Her journey in service began around age 10 or 12 when she joined a mentoring program called Queen’s Tomorrow, founded by a fellow church member, Ms. Elisha Wilkinson in 2019. As one of the program’s charter members, Korie began participating in events like back-to-school drives and quickly realized the profound impact such efforts could have on her community. Her commitment to service grew stronger over time, leading her to join organizations like Top Teens of America. Through these groups, she connected with young people from across the country and gained a broader understanding of community service. “It wasn’t just the service,” she explained, “but seeing people from all over the U.S. come together—it was cool to see everyone’s different experiences.” Korie believes everyone has a role to play in shaping their community, and for her, that role is grounded in positivity. “If I’m going to be doing something, I might as well be doing something good for my community,” she said. Her motivation to give back is rooted in empathy and a sense of shared responsibility—if she has something, she wants others to have it too. She also spoke on the importance of self-belief and breaking through self-doubt.
According to Korie, networking and forming connections can be transformative, not just for one’s confidence, but for one’s life trajectory. “Everybody has different paths,” she said, “but what you do can change someone else’s life.” She emphasized that self-doubt is often a mental barrier and that engaging with others—especially those outside your immediate circle— can open doors you never expected. “There are people all over who want to give and support,” she said, reflecting on the generosity she’s witnessed in Monroe. For Korie, getting out of one’s comfort zone and initiating conversations with new people isn’t just beneficial—it’s potentially life-changing. “Talking to people that you would never usually talk to,” she explained, “can actually change your life—not only financially, but in creating lifelong partnerships.” Her advice to peers is simple yet profound: be brave, speak up, and connect. As she prepares to begin her next chapter at LSU, Korie Harris stands as a powerful role model— proof that hard work, humility, and a heart for service can pave the way to a promising future. With an unwavering commitment to excellence, both in the classroom and in her community, she embodies the spirit of leadership and perseverance. Whether she ultimately becomes a radiologist or takes another path within the medical field, there’s no doubt that Korie will continue to make a meaningful impact, not only through her career but through the lives she touches along the way.
Liz Buys Houses Connects Home Sellers with Legitimate Cash Buyers Nationwide! No Repairs. No Fuss.
Selling my home with Liz Buys Houses was a gamechanger! Their expertise and support throughout the process were unparalleled. I couldn't have asked for a smoother sell. KUDOS to this amazing team! -Michael Beck
We work fast and are ready to help with your sale when you are. Call today to see if our fast cash o er aligns with your home sale needs!
Now you can finally have all of the soothing benefits of a relaxing warm bath, or enjoy a convenient refreshing shower while seated or standing with Safe Step Walk-In Tub’s FREE Shower Package!
✓ First walk-in tub available with a customizable shower
✓ Fixed rainfall shower head is adjustable for your height and pivots to offer a seated shower option
✓ High-quality tub complete with a comprehensive lifetime warranty on the entire tub
✓ Top-of-the-line installation and service, all included at one low, affordable price
Now you can have the best of both worlds–there isn’t a better, more aff ordable walk-in tub!
