Michigan Volume 1, Issue 3

DETROIT EDITION

AMPS MAGAZINE American Minority People Succeeding

JUSTICE Kyra Harris Bolden

ERICA WRIGHT

For the Culture SCAN WITH PHONE

Volume 1, Issue 3

www.detroit.ampsmagazine.com

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contents VOLUME 1, ISSUE 3

What’s Inside...

Families Must Protect ................ 8 Supreme Court Justice................ 9 Terry T Miles.............................. 13 Legendary Great........................ 17 Legendary Great........................ 18 Melissa Butler: The Lip Bar...... 24 Serial Entrepreneur................... 26

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the AMPS Ohio Team

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Publisher

Romeo Barnes

Editor

Mia Barnes

Writers

Kalinda Meadows

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Contributing Photographer CW Richards Lenny White Harold Watters

Graphic Designer Gerald Wright

AMPS Detroit is a franchise of AMPS Magazine, a national entity, with headquarters in Orlando, Florida. This magazine is published bi-monthly.

AMPS MAGAZINE CORPORATE Orlando, Florida 33837 317-426-7790

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This is the second 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

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about the publisher

I would like to start off by Thanking the READERS of AMPS Ohio Magazine and the newly published AMPS Michigan Magazine. There is no way to thank you enough for the support we have received for these publications. We strive to bring you great articles on melanated people, organizations, legends, businesses, our missing children & women and much more. I would like to thank Gerald Wright for trusting me with yet another magazine in the franchise with the launch of AMPS Michigan Magazine, this is an amazing journey.

In these new issues I’d like to Thank Tamara Davis and Eazy The Block Captain the cover stories for AMPS Michigan and AMPS Ohio, for sharing their stories with us. Inside these issues there’s information on the healthy aspects of berries, Legendary Greats that have accomplished so much in their life times, I’d like to thank you Jason Crutchfield for your time I learned a lot from you, thank you Malika Williams for sharing your story. Read both magazines and find our missing, learn about our youngest African American Pilot who is only 17 years old and support the melanated businesses and wonderful events that are advertised in AMPS Magazine.

Here at AMPS we are proud to bring you great articles, events and advertisements in every issue.

AMPS Ohio Magazine & AMPS Michigan Magazine Publisher Romeo Barnes Thank you for your continued support.

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Why Melanated Families Must Protect Themselves

By Erica Wright | For the Culture, For the Community

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We are living in a time where being Black behind the wheel is still a danger zone. We’ve chanted the names. We’ve watched the footage. We’ve mourned. But we must do more than mourn—we must prepare. I’m Erica Wright, and I’m on a mission to make sure melanated families everywhere are armed with something too few of us have had con- Trusted by Major Companies sistent access to: affordable legal protection. Still unsure? LegalShield isn’t some flyby-night company. It’s trusted by wellThis isn’t just a pitch. This is a plight. My known brands like American Eagle, heart is with our people—our mothers, our CLEAR, Southwest Airlines, and Uber. If sons, our daughters, our fathers - who de- these corporations rely on LegalShield for serve to feel safe, secure, and protected un- protection, why shouldn’t der the law. That’s why I’m urging you, right you and your family? now, to sign up for LegalShield.

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First Black Woman Supreme Court Justice In a candid conversation that delved into personal history and professional accomplishments, Kyra Bolden, a trailblazing figure in Michigan’s legal and political spheres, shared her journey and insights.

Beginning with her childhood roots in Southfield, Michigan, Kyra recounted how her upbringing in a middle-class, majority-minority community endowed her with a sense of boundless possibilities. Growing up around doctors, lawyers, and business owners who looked like her, Kyra developed an innate self-assuredness that was rare for someone of her background. It was a unique environment that shielded her from the harsher realities of racism until she transitioned to college, where she confronted her minority status and the racism that sometimes accompanied it.

Kyra’s college years, set in a largely unfamiliar milieu, proved to be pivotal. She shared how her perspective changed through interactions and experiences that exposed her to new aspects of societal dynamics. Being a tutor for an after-school program opened her eyes to the significance of representation. Witnessing young black girls’ doubts about their future due to a lack of role models, Kyra recognized the urgency of offering them tangible examples of achievement. Her own story became a source of inspiration for those who needed to see that success was attainable for them as well.

fueled her drive to change the trajectory for her community.

Kyra’s journey into law and politics was an organic progression. With a psychology degree underway, her encounter with two young black girls questioning if girls like them could go to college underscored the necessity of representation. This experience, coupled with her drive to create change, led Kyra to transition into law school. She practiced law, becoming a voice for justice and change within her community. Her successful endeavors in criminal defense and as a civil litigator were a testament to her dedication and skill.

From state representative to the Michigan Supreme Court, Kyra’s journey continued to be defined by her commitment to equity and justice. She recalled being convinced to run for office by mentors and peers, eventually serving in the Michigan House of Representatives for four years. During her tenure, she worked towards criminal justice reform, tackling issues surrounding prison reform and the rights of survivors of sexual assault. Transitioning to the Michigan Supreme Court, Kyra recognized the weight of her role and the importance of visibility. She aimed to inspire younger generations, showing them that barriers could be overcome.

Her passion for change was evident in her words, offering motivation and guidance for others seeking to make an impact.

Kyra highlighted the importance of doing the work, being ambitious, and seeking mentors who could guide the journey. She emphasized the significance of asking for help and fostering strong support networks. Furthermore, Kyra underscored the need for self-care and finding balance, an essential lesson she had learned in her own life.

Addressing young black girls, Kyra offered encouragement and a reminder that their dreams were attainable. She urged them Contined on Page 12

Another incident, when a fellow student made a tasteless joke about being from Detroit, struck a chord. It crystallized the prejudices some harbored and the stereotypes that Kyra, now acutely aware, would continue to combat.

Furthermore, her great-grandfather’s tragic history – he was lynched in 1939 – propelled Kyra towards a renewed focus on justice and advocacy. The realization that systemic injustices were interwoven into her own family history

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SCAN WITH PHONE

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SCAN WITH PHONE

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Chrissy’s Story Coming to an AMPS Magazine NEAR YOU!

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Contined from Page 9 to find mentors who could provide guidance and shared experiences. She stressed the importance of representation and visibility, revealing that her own journey was driven by the desire to make space for others who might not have had the same opportunities.

In closing, Kyra expressed her commitment to fostering change and equity, acknowledging her role on the Michigan Supreme Court as an opportunity to contribute positively to society. Her dedication to justice, her vibrant personality, and her determination to create a better future for marginalized communities all shone through in this conversation, leaving an indelible impression of a woman making waves and leaving her mark on history.

Terry T Miles Enter the world of Terry T. Miles If you have ever watched movies on Tubi you have likely seen one of his movies. Actor, writer, director, producer and CEO, Terry T. has made noise with his movies and fans are watching. With a library of over 11 films that he has either starred in, directed or produced Terry has an impressive list of work. One of his most watched and talked about movies I Want Her has ran several times on Tubi.

Terry’s movies can also can be found on Amazon, Amazon Prime. His list of movies include Swap Out, Recognize, Behind the Veil 1 and 2 and a lot more.

This talented film maker is also the CEO of Silver Back Films, Silver Back Protection and T Miles Vision. Terry is a very in demand speaker in the industry because of his first hand experience. Terry’s success in urban films is nothing short of amazing. His insight into what his audience is looking for will keep his projects in demand. Be on the look out for what’s to come with Terry T Miles.

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Legendary Great

MC Lyte

This Living Legendary Great was born Lana Michele Moorer on October 11th 1970 in Brooklyn, New York. We all know her as MC Lyte. This legend started rapping at the age of 12 and today MC Lyte is a trailblazer. With a career that has lasted over 30 years. MC Lyte has established herself as the GOAT of Female Rap. MC Lyte was the first rap artist to perform at Carnegie Hall and the first female rapper to achieve a gold single.

A leader in the music industry, she has also performed at the Kennedy Center Honors and was the first rapper to perform at the White House, MC Lyte was also the first female rapper to be nominated for a Grammy. Her Music is known around the world from Ruffneck to Keep on Keeping on to I want to be down.

MC Lyte is also the voice behind many commercials and does voice overs for many shows and events, she is a writer and producer of not only music but film and has collaborated with

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most of the great legends and artist today. Since her for rap album release in 1997 at 16, MC Lyte has never stopped. Many of the artists and rappers look up to her as a mentor. Always an advocate MC Lyte is the founder of Hip Hop Sisters Foundation, She is an entrepreneur with several businesses in her portfolio. MC Lyte is also a great actress staring in many films and television including the series Tales and S.W.A.T. MC Lyte has released 15 albums including collaborations and EPS, and 73 singles. MC Lyte has the BET Hip Hop Lifetime Achievement Award, A Trail Blazer Award from the Trumpet Awards and many more. This Living Legend is not done yet and we are all waiting to see what’s next.

Legendary Great

Smokey Robinson

This Living Legendary Great is a Detroit native and Motown royalty, born February 19th 1940 as William Robinson. Mr. Motown got his name Smokey from his uncle who called him Smokey because of his love for cowboy movies as a child and nicked named home Smokey Joe. Smokey grew up in Detroit and lived on the same street as Aretha Franklin. Early on Smokey found his love for music and was a part of the group the Five Chimes. The group was a part of Berry Gordy’s music label Tamela and when he began Motown the group was the first he signed. Berry Gordy has mention several times that without Smokey and the Miracles there wouldn’t a Motown. Smokey would write many of the songs for the groups at Motown. The song “Shop Around” by the Miracles became Motown’s first Million Dollar Hit. The Five Chimes now the Miracles continued to make hit after hit with the help of Smokey.

The group would have over 50 songs hit Billboards top 100. Smokey remained with group until 1972 he retired from the group tddso continue his duties as Vice President of Motown. The groups success included songs like Oooo Baby Baby, their only number 1 hit Tears of a Clown and I second That Emotion just to name a few of their hits. Smokey went on to have a successful solo career, his first hit as a solo artist was Crusin. Smokey officially left Motown in 1999. To his credit Smokey has accumulated an magnitude of awards and honors including 2 stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, being inducted into the Rocking Roll Hall of Fame and the Song Writers Hall of Fame. Smokey’s list of achievements goes on and on.

Today Smokey is busy as ever with a New album at the age of 85, What The World Needs Now…Smokey shows no signs of retiring and we are here for what ever he does next.

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Melissa Butler: The Lip Bar Melissa was born and raised in Detroit, Michigan but upon graduation from Florida A&M University she moved to New York for a dream job on Wall Street. Melissa didn’t enjoy her job so she decided to start her own business that business which started as a side hustle in 2012 was Lip Bar Cosmetics. Inspired by the almost none existence of vibrant colored vegan lipstick Melissa started the brand in her kitchen. Melissa soon found that her product had a demand so with 2 years under her belt Melissa quit her job on Wall Street and moved back to Detroit to work her side hustle full time. By 2015 the Lip Bar had generated $100,000 in revenue.

Today the Lip Bar is located in downtown Detroit and Melissa’s vegan lipsticks and cosmetics can be found in Target, Walmart, CVS and Meijer across the U.S. Melissa appeared on an episode of Shark Tank and was turned down for being unmarketable…

Melissa’s goal according to her site is to empower women everywhere of all ages, races and body types to be confident in their own skin by challenging traditional beauty standards through imagery, ingredients and affordable pricing. We’re here to see what’s next for the Lip Bar.

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TEEKA TOLLIVER Serial Entrepreneur Teeka Tolliver, is a remarkable woman that wears many hats. A devoted Mother, Grandmother, Author, tenacious hustler, real-estate mogul, and the founder, owner, and creative force behind Coochie Cane.

Teeka has been integral to the company from its inception. Leveraging her extensive background in beauty, business, management, accounting, and customer service, she has consistently ensured the utmost satisfaction for numerous customers.

Teeka is driven by faith, guided by God and thrives on turning life’s challenges into strengths. She has turned her pain into power, making it make sense by monetizing off of helping others look good, feel good, smell good and taste good!

Bring back your youthful glow from head to toe with her line of natural skincare products.

Coochie Cane, is a health and wellness beauty brand.

The product line consists of natural products for all skin types. If you need pain relief, pleasure or pampering, check out her website www. ccbodycare.com.

Teeka Tolliver is truly a motivating force to aspiring entrepreneurs.

She believes in 11 streams of income. A true boss that is passionate, loves to see everybody win and who will help you to become a winner!

Follow her on Instagram @CCBODYCARE Www.ccbodycare.com

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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.

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Website

WELCOME TO DETROIT

AMPS MAGAZINE of DETROIT Romeo Barnes, Publisher Youth and Unity

www.detroit.ampsmagazine.com Page 32

(216) 414-0155

American Minority People Succeeding