Huami Magazine March 2013

huami March/April 2013 Volume 3 Issue 1 FREE

The Next Evolution in Social Media

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March/April 2013

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Letter From the Editor/Founder

Faith is My Friend When I want to be alone with God, I pray. Doing so privileges me to personal and intimate moments, while encouraging me to express my most sincere feelings and emotions. It is during these times that I seek revelation, healing, restoration, and guidance.

I also utilize the opportunity to thank God for saving me from dangers, both seen and unseen and for caring enough to grant me yet another chance to get things right.

www.huamimagazine.com Editor In Chief

Terry L. Watson

It would be very foolish of me to take credit for everything ‘good’ that has happened to me. Equally, I wouldn’t make much sense to bash God for allowing the bad. For they both have played significant roles in shaping and molding me into who I am. My trials and storms have produced character and made me really appreciate the good times. This has only happened because I have chosen to love God and developed a faith in Him that I call my friend.

I was told as a young child that I would amount to much. My future was a predetermined tragedy and that I shouldn’t spend much time planning for it. Those words damaged me and for quite a while I didn’t dream or strive. Instead I settled and conformed to my surroundings. However, one day I realized that God had spoken life into my tragedies well before I knew anything about myself. He showed me that He does listen when I call. During my most difficult moments, victory is still mine. Even when it seems like there is no way for me, God has turned things around, moved obstacles out of my path, and knocked down walls just so that I can fulfill His purpose for my life.

To be quite honest I have questioned God and asked why me. Yet at the same time I ask myself why not me. I accepted God and allowed Him into my heart and since doing so things aren’t like they once were. I don’t worry about tomorrow because I have faith in God that I call my friend.

Deputy Editor

Alana Allen Writers

Tonya Dixon Abbria McWhite Photographers

Howard Gaither Dr. Tiffany Fuller Perfect Lenz Photogrphy Charles Media Photography Brad McKenzie Layout

Mykel Media Company Linda Bennett

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 may be submitted to the editor by E-mail at terrywatson@huamimagazine.com terry.editor@yahoo.com or to Mykel Media Company P.O. Box 20102 Greensboro, NC 27420 HUAMI MAGAZINE 2013 All Rights Reserved SUBSCRIPTIONS AVAILABLE Have Huami Magazine delivered to your home or office. Send Money Order for $16.00 for 4 issues to our P.O. Box, and allow three weeks before first issue is delivered. Include subscriber contact information with phone number. No Refunds Allowed.

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On The Cover Photo by JUFWBE www.jufwbe.com

CONTENTS

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Paul Brown

March/April 2013

38

Rita Tisdale

Jazz’a 4 Christ

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Also Inside..........................

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The Next Evolution in Social Media

Focused on Higher Learning

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March/April 2013

Making Life Sweet

Sonya Norcott Walking for Life

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Prestige Barber College Gene Blackman Living Healthy Getting Fit in 2013 Business Forum Concessions Galore A Cream Affair Linease Washington Still on Her Grind VB Still Making You Look Good Perfect Image

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Winston Salems History

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Community Connection

GREENSBORO

By Mia Brown Photo by Mykel Media Company

Mind Body & Soul 5K Walk Sonya Norcott she always wanted to give back to the community but she just didn’t know how in the beginning. She believes that it’s better to give than to receive so she found a cause that she could be a part of, Mind, Body and Soul 5K walk.

The walk is one of the ways that Norcott gives back to her community by raising funds and bringing awareness to sickle cell. This year will be her second year doing the walk on Saturday, April 20. “The walk was a vision that came to me in a dream and I knew that I had to go forth in it,” said Norcott. The name of the walk “Mind, Body and Soul” was something that intertwined with her daily life because she deals with the mind of people, the body of people, and the soul of people on an education aspect, this name seemed to perfectly fit the cause.

Sonya Norcott is a woman who believes when you serve your community, you should be encouraging, educating and have an impression on people so that they are able to see your lifestyle in order to change their lives. She states

The main goal Norcott has for this walk is to educate her community on sickle cell and how others are dealing with it. She believes that this walk will and does affect her life in a positive

way. “I know this is what God has brought me to do and because it was God who gave me this vision, I will carry it out,” said Norcott.

Overall, Norcott believes her biggest contribution to the community beyond the walk is her mentoring groups. She mentors young women and men in her programs, “Ladies of Beauty” and “Men of Boldness”. The group focuses on youth between the ages of 12 to 21 and helps young people with their lifestyles.

Once the walk is finished, Norcott still has things in the community on her plate to do.

She is currently planning a fashion show with her mentoring groups that will give the clothes worn during the show to students who are less fortunate. After the fashion show, she plans to host workshops and continue with her mentoring program, as well as feeding the homeless and working with other non-profits in the area. “It’s an ongoing thing for me to give back, something that I will always continue to do,” says Norcott. h

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Community Connection

GREENSBORO

By Mia Brown Photo by Mykel Media Company

Prestige Barber College Gene Blackmon in Greensboro, N.C., as a way to fulfill that promise. As a professional barber, he wanted to provide an opportunity to aspiring barbers who needed a second chance in life. “I wanted to do something different to help people make provisions for themselves and their family,” said Blackmon.

With Blackmon’s leadership, Prestige Barber College continues to have a huge impact in the community. The school has participated in back to school community events, veteran appreciation events, as well as non-profit events where complimentary haircuts are offered to all individuals in attendance. In addition, the school holds free workshops on entrepreneurship and starting a business.

“When I decided to open this school, I believed that it would have an effect on my life and the lives of others,” said Blackmon. “I am inspired to use what God has given me to be successful and to help people.”

Blackmon opened his barber school that provides instruction on how to become a licensed barber in the state of North Carolina.

He believes that his barber school has a purpose and goal to give future barbers the skills and confidence they need to be successful and how to operate a business.

Gene Blackmon is a man of vision, aspiration, and one who believes in giving back to his community. He believes wholeheartedly in sowing into the community that has sown into you and he started Prestige Barber College

Blackmon says he always dreamed and knew he wanted to own a barber school and said that his wife supported his dreams that turned into reality. “From the day I met my beautiful wife, she has inspired me to move forward with my vision and has helped me tremendously in bringing it all into fruition,” said Blackmon.

“She is truly my inspiration without a doubt.” h

Like most business owners, Blackmon has faced some challenges when it comes to not being able to offer financial aid to those who are not able to afford the full cost of tuition.

However, the school continues to persevere striving for success, and he believes that his school provides an avenue for people in the community to go after their dreams.

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Cover Feature Photography by Howard Gaither

The Next Evolution in Social Media www.jufwbe.com

J

By Tonya Dixon Photography by Howard Gaither UFWBE, pronounced Ja-Foo-Bay, is the next evolution in social media and networking. The catchy acronym stands for Just Friends with Benefits, not to be confused with the 2011 comedy, Friends with Benefits. There is nothing salacious or provocative about JUFWBE. However, the new platform is hot, on fire and prime to become a major player in the online social media and marketplace environment.

JUFWBE is not another version of a current social media service and platform repackaged and renamed. It’s a community filled with social interactions of every kind as well as business deals. More importantly, it’s where the social and business worlds not only collide but expertly coexist. Never mix business with pleasure, right? Wrong.

JUFWBE strings chat, global business and networking together with themes of respect, determination and focus to create an online environment where members can seal their next business deal and make a dinner date — all on one site. Small business owners, educational institutions and professionals alike can come together to prove that business can be mixed with pleasure and that society is actually better off for it.

Not only is JUFWBE a unique social experience that helps you discover what’s going on with your world, but it helps the world discover what’s going on with you. In addition, it’s the first social platform that connects businesses to customers in real time. There are a few conventional features shared between JUFWBE and its contemporaries such as profile creation, picture uploading, searching and compiling friends with like interests and contact sharing, but that’s where the similarities end. Other platforms tend to be solely focused on business or solely on social aspects.

Social

Business Entertainment

Louv Robinson Co-Founder

Dating

Community

JUFWBE was founded by husband and wife business partners, Jerry and Louv Ford. Jerry recalls leaving one business meeting and heading to another one. All the while his phone was ringing off the hook with requests from personal friends and business contacts alike.

They were all in need of something--some were looking for a job, some were looking to hire, and others were attempting to sell a product or service. They all had one thing in common; they knew Jerry, and knew he had many contacts and the ability to connect them with the right person or business they needed. Frustrated, Ford said to himself, “man, I’m just a friend with benefits.” As soon as it rolled off his tongue, he says he knew he had something. He didn’t quite know what he had, but he was sure it was something special and life-changing. On that very day, May 26, 2010, he found himself at a crossroads and the recipient of a vision that was much greater than him. It turned out to be even greater than he had ever imagined. He says he continued to repeat Just Friends with Benefits over and over and realized it even sounded like he was saying JUFWBE.

Dez Gerald

Senior Creative Manager Chief Creative Director

He thought to himself, “What if I created a platform where I could put all my friends in one location and they could benefit from each other, all in one place?” Louv adds, “He took all his friends and connected them with his business contacts. The site represents

March/April 2013

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business and social. It’s in one platform and they both communicate with each other.”

Additionally, Jerry thought, “What would happen if people stayed on the site and never got off? or What if you had all that you needed in one central location?” He compared all the other platforms, and realized the one thing they had in common was that people had to eventually get off and browse to a different site if they needed another service. JUFWBE had to be different and it had to offer everything in one location.

JUFWBE literally offers everything on a global scale. Original movies and entertainment programming, streaming, news¸ business meetings, online resumes, virtual dating, fundraising, marketplace, chat, church communication and so much more, it’s all available on JUFWBE. However, the process has been painstaking and tedious with many setbacks and errors but Jerry and Louv were never deterred. They always had tunnel vision and knew the venture would come to pass. Not only will it come to pass but Jerry says it will surpass every expectation because the entire idea and vision came from God. “it’s a true blessing. I do not even have a technical or social media background. God told me to do it,” says Jerry. “There’s no way I could have thought of this on my own.”

The husband and wife business partners couldn’t be more excited about their new venture.

The emotion and fervor resounding in their voice is undeniable and contagious. They both agree JUFWBE is a win/win situation. “Businesses provide a benefit through a service or product to our customers and friends on JUFWBE and through word of mouth JUFWBE members are a benefit to those businesses because they are helping increase sales,” says Louv.

Johnathan Nazeer JUFWBE Brand Manager

Although Jerry and Louv are equal partners and share in every aspect of the business, Louv handles the majority of the administrative work, Jerry admits leaves all the emails and intense computer work to Louv and other JUFWBE team members. Nevertheless they are both always in the trenches getting their hands dirty and toiling on behalf of JUFWBE. They are so committed that when the Fords couldn’t find the perfect match in a computer company to accommodate their technological needs they opted to forgo their search and instead chose to form their own company. JUFWBE Technologies is the machine that powers JUFWBE, the social media and business networking platform. It also stands alone as its own business which helps other small businesses with any technological needs they may have at a very affordable price.

JUFWBE is in the midst of a hard, full-court press. The platform is preparing for a blow-out launch. “Our goal is to make it a household name within six months and anybody that knows me will tell you when I set my mind to do something I will put my all into it,” says Jerry. “If I’m gauged by the success of my other businesses it will happen.”

The JUFWBE Team consists of the following members. Jonathan K. Nazeer is the amazing brand manager for JUFWBE. Having worked with FUBU and several other celebrity brands, he expertly and strategically articulates the JUFWBE brand through events, publications and various other outlets. He says it’s his job to tell the back story and put it in layman’s terms so that anyone can understand and more importantly, desire to become involved. Nazeer is not just sitting in an office drafting logos or tagging the JUFWBE name to every event, rather he understands it is important to figure out a way to transfer online interaction offline so that the line between virtual interaction and real interaction is seamless and the JUFWBE brand remains unscathed and intact. He says it’s all about creating a need then facilitating the actual event that will fulfill the need.

Portia Shipman is the founder and executive director of the Sherri Denise Jackson Foundation for the Prevention of Domestic Violence. She maintains an extensive background with community service projects and community awareness events; consequently it was almost automatic for her to team up with JUFWBE as the networks community service liaison.

The partnership enables both Shipman and JUFWBE to raise funds for the Sherri Denise Jackson Foundation as well as provide a larger scale platform to raise awareness for other community issues. She is the host for “Dinner and a Movie”, a bi-monthly JUFWBE event that provides an open platform for the community to discover and engage with independent filmmakers, musicians, artists and other community foundations and events. She says she is excited about JUFWBE because it’s all about friendships. “It’s the idea that one person can help another person; your friend can meet my friend and we all can become friends.” Her own business, Reliable Home Care Services which provides in-home care for the elderly and disabled, is a part of the JUFWBE business portal.

Portia Shipman Community

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Robyn Tatum: is formerly a Fox 8 account executive, Robyn Tatum has the background and experience necessary to spearhead marketing, advertising and promotions for JUFWBE. She knows what it takes to set a business up with a successful marketing strategy for television and internet. She wil play a key role in the highly anticipated JUFWBE TV. In addition, she owns her own fragrance company, Divine Scents. Her company has partnered with JUFWBE and has developed “the fragrance of JUFWBE”. Not only is it a media and networking platform, but it has its own fragrance, which has also been parlayed into candles, lotions and scrubs. Tatum says she wants people to know that the the scent of JUFWBE is in the air.

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Business Profile Social Profile

March/April 2013

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Rising Star Talent Swerv-O Born in Boston MA, he grew up in the rough part of Uphams Corner Dorchester. Swerv-O fell in love with music at the early age of three as his young single mom used to play gospel, and Anita Baker, Michael Jackson, and Luther Vandross around the house. By the age of nine Swerv-O began as lead singer in Mrs. Hamiltons Boys Choir at the John P. Holland elementary school. He traveled around the state of Massachusetts performing for other schools, even for the mayor at Boston’s City Hall.

Swerv-O always had a love for writing poetry, stories and listening to hip hop, and reggae.

His step father and uncles were Dj’s that played at parties and clubs throughout Boston and they kept him close to the turntables playing reggae and hip hop all night. Swerv-O built a stronger love for hip hop after listening to artist such as Heavy D, Rakim, RUN DMC, and Kool G Rap, and Nas. After hearing Notorious B.I.G and Tupac Shakur, Swerv-O began to write music all alone in his room. As time went on he began to battle rap his friends in high school and became the crowd favorite.

Right now Swerv-O still hasn’t stopped grinding and is still recording, performing and selling his mix tapes in the streets. He is a triple threat in today’s industry by being a talented song writer, hip hop performer, and new record label owner with T.W. Entertainment. He is also jumping into the fashion world by collaborating with Absolute Clothing as a spokesperson for their clothing line. The brand matches Swerv-O musical style as being classy, mixed with urban swag, and the union has set off a buzz in Boston andsurely will spread nationwide. Swerv-O will soon be one the greats in hip hop as he continues to grind his way to the top! Download his music when you visit the rising star on www.jufwbe.com

Rising Star Talent LaMont J JUFWBE Rising Star LaMont’s signature raspy overtones and non-formulaic approach to music can only be attributed to absorbing the qualities both his parents instilled in him as a child. His ministry captures the irreplaceable soul that is only found in gospel music. The strength and integrity of his musical talents are obvious in his strong vocal performances that are laced with both traditional and contemporary gospel. LaMont’s vocal range, skilled writing, and vocal arrangement capabilities have not only won praises of many audiences, but from some of today’s living gospel legends.

Although LaMont is currently being introduced as a “new” artist, this is not his first time behind the mic. LaMont has sung with some gospel greats such as Pastor John P. Kee and William Becton and Friends. His project “Church Therapy” exposes those issues in the church that are usually untouched.

You will experience in the track Religion/Relationship (pronounced without the word AND), that his vocal styling’s are impeccable but his music ministry is like no one you have heard before. Download his music when you visit the Rising Star on www.jufwbe.com.

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Cotlu films is a full-fledged movie production company owned by Rick Cotton and Edwin Lewis. The Greensboro natives are instrumental in implementing original programing for JUFWBE TV. Cotlu Films has had two original films shown during the JUFWBE Dinner and a Movie events. Lewis says the partnership with JUFWBE gives independent filmmakers the opportunity to show and sell their films to the general public. JUFWBE members will have the opportunity to review independent films immediately, stream, download or order a copy. Currently, Cotlu films is the gateway for filmmakers to JUFWBE TV. The company is actively seeking content to review for JUFWBE TV, which will be broadcasting 24 hour programming. Cotlu Films has a great deal of content online, from PSAs to short films to live shows. The company is currently in production of a documentary titled, “Surviving the Big C”. The story walks through the real lives of seven African American’s who have been diagnosed with some form of Cancer. The dramatizations of their lives are heartfelt and true. The company is even in the midst of a big fundraiser to cover the overwhelming costs required to produce such an authentic film.

Dez Gerald is the creative genius behind the super intuitive and sleek JUFWBE website. As the creative director for the website she has the daunting task of making sure the website adequately expresses who and what JUFWBE is. There are more than 200 website pages containing a great deal of information that could easily become overwhelming and uninviting. Nevertheless, she has been able to create a website that is not only pleasing to the eye but user friendly. Right from a user’s profile the entirety of JUFWBE is accessible, even sites such as Facebook and Twitter; all streaming in real-time together. Gerald has always been artsy and creative. She has worked in real estate and television staging so she knows what is pleasing to the eye. She believes it is important for JUFWBE to embrace the part of the puzzle that other sites bring to the table and not attempt to destroy them.

Although there is much more to come on the JUFWBE website, Gerald admits they had to stop adding in order to starting operating.

Nikeema Lee oversees the virtual dating aspect of JUFWBE known as Heart to Heart. In 2008, Lee started her own company Upscale Desires and became an intimacy coach. She teaches singles and couples how to love their own selves before falling in love with someone else. After starting her company she realized the information she was able to give to her clients and teach them was more valuable than the product she was attempting to sell. She connected with JUFWBE and began designing a dating site that would not only provide a virtual dating platform but a teaching platform as well. She says it is absolutely what distinguishes JUFWBE from all other dating sites. Heart to Heart offers the meeting place for interested individuals but also offers webinars and empowerment series to show people how to search for a mate online, and how to initially find love within themselves. She is the author of the book, “How to Become the Authentic You.” h

Ricky Cotton, Edwin Lewis Robyn Tatum JUFWBE TV

www.jufwbe.com

Nikeema Lee Heart2Heart

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Greensboro’s

Champion Barber

Paul Brown

March/April 2013

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By Tonya Dixon Photography by CharlesMedia Photography

P

aul Brown has been cutting hair since he was 12 years old. Although, he says those early years may not have technically been considered cutting. Unfortunately, he had to be the one to bear the brunt of his learning curve. Nevertheless, he’s quickly reminded that was over 20 years ago and he was only 12. No longer being a novice at barbering, the Greensboro native is known throughout the community as a truly skilled and professional barber. Greensboro’s Champion Barber.

Brown eventually learned how to use a pair of clippers for his benefit and even became known as the neighborhood barber at southside Hampton Homes where he grew up. By the time he was 17 years old, he was a Smith High School student cutting the basketball and football players hair. This was one of the ways he kept his pockets full and his clientele booked.

He has always been drawn to the barbering profession and he excelled in art class in school and won many awards. “Since I didn’t go to school to take up art, I put it into my barbering craft,” he says. “It’s like art, all

“Black men¸ especially, need to get involved in something. Have a goal, go to school, learn a trade so you can give back. I always want to give back to the community.” the same, I put the passion and creativity I have for art into barbering. It’s artistic and I love making people feel special, because appearance is everything.”

Although, Brown is gifted artistically he knows he would not be as successful if it had not been for the Winston-Salem Barber School, where he went to school and received training from exceptional instructors like Mr. Speaks and Mr. Long. He says they taught him the meaning of barbering. He is appreciative that they took the time to teach him and others.

He admits he didn’t know everything about being a barber when he completed school. However, it wasn’t the latest and different cutting styles that were problematic, rather how to be professional; which is why he has a great deal of respect and gratitude to Anthony Pettiford, owner of United Barbershop in Greensboro.

He worked under Pettiford for eight years and says the skills he learned there were priceless.

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“He showed me how to be a professional. A professional barber to me is consistent. I’ve learned over the years that you can have all the talent in the world, but it’s worth nothing if you don’t have consistency. I’ve seen many barbers who were not topnotch, but they were consistent. They excelled in this profession just as much or more than the really talented ones. For me, consistency outweighs talent any day in this game. If you mix talent and consistency together that’s what makes you great,” says Brown.

There are many others from which he gathered pearls of wisdom and support, but none as close to him as his mother and late grandmother. The support they provided him over the years meant more than words could ever say. They both made sure he had everything he needed while in school and have always been encouraging.

Huami Magazine Hair Show

2012 - 2nd Place 2012 - 1st Place Triad Hair Battle Competition 2010 - 1st Place Hair & Beauty Expo

Exclusive Beauty & Barber Hair Show

2009 - 1st Place Millennium Styles Hair Battle 2008 - 1st Place Triad Hair Battle Competition 2001 - 1st Place

Brown continues to be successful because of his consistency. Many of those very same young men whose hair he cut in high school continue to come to him today. Not only that, but they bring their kids. It’s a perpetuation of generations that he is pouring into.

He also understands barbers don’t just cut hair; they are counselors and confidants.

Not to seem cocky or arrogant but he feels he has mastered virtually all barbering techniques, which he simply attributes to consistency and experience. He says when people, including himself graduate from barber school they think they can cut, but they really don’t know as much as they think.

What Brown does know is exceptional. He has participated in many shows and competitions and won or placed extremely high in them all. He is capable of doing almost anything, but says if he had to name a specialty it would be beard design and art. He has been involved in almost every aspect of barbering.

A few years ago, he had the pleasure of being the sole stylist for several celebrities, including Richard Roundtree, Allen Payne, Chris Williams, Monifa and when the popular play, Men Cry in the Dark, came to the Greensboro Coliseum.

Nevertheless, Brown says he’s just an old-fashioned barber respected in the game. In addition to his passion for the craft, he is committed to giving back to not only the community-at-large, but specifically the community from which he came. He often gives free haircuts at community cookouts and events. He currently teaches a class at Carolina Beauty College and is actively seeking other outlets to teach and pour into others all the knowledge that he has garnered.

He says giving back is just as important as providing the service. “Black men¸ especially, need to get involved in something. Have a goal, go to school, learn a trade so you can give back,” he says. “I always want to give back to the community. We need positive role models.

Really, it’s just important that we do something.” h

Home Barbershop

2000 South Eugene Street Greensboro, NC 27406 (336)274-2879

Body & Soul Beauty and Barber Competition

2002 -3rd Place 2001 - 1st Place

Triad Hair Battle Competition NCSBCA Competition

2001 - 1st Place 2001 - 1st Place NCSBCA Competition 2000 - 1st Place NCSBCA Competition 1999 - 1st Place

Body & Soul Beauty and Barber Competition

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O’Fallon, Missouri

Making

Life Sweet

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By Terry L. Watson Photography by Aminah Wiliams

A

minah Williams is someone who would literally give the shirt off her own back to help someone else. When her father was in desperate need of a kidney, she willingly gave him one of hers to save his life. Her life is a testament of who she is and what she believes living is all about. The O’Fallon, Mo. native isn’t the type to sit around and wait for life to happen. Instead her assertive and infectious nature has wrestled all challenges she faced with grace and optimism.

Williams is more than just a conqueror -- she is a mother of five, friend, and believer. Along with her lifelong friend, Jana M. Gamble who she describes as her partner in crime, they have formed, Living Sweet, a nonprofit organization whose goal is to promote awareness and knowledge in their community by encouraging people to give back, give life and give love. Their mission began nearly two years ago when the duo decided to put their minds together and be the salt and light of the world. They both had wonderful gifts and wanted to impact the world by doing good things.

Gamble is a keynote speaker amongst other things. The author, poet, and single mom of two is most recognizable on stage with a microphone in hand or seated with a pen and pad. Her gift is her ability to connect with children through her books, young women (10-18) through mentoring, and speaking to women of all ages on educational levels and economic statuses. Even behind the camera she effectively communicates her aura of inspiration to the world.

One of Williams many gifts is cooking.

As a personal chef she incorporated her talent with passion to give and along with Gamble began 10 Weeks of Giving. Every week they would bless random businesses and individuals with food and information about giving. It was during this time that Williams learned that her father would surely die if he didn’t receive a kidney transplant. This ordeal would eventually delay their effort to feed others during their giving program.

During that time, Williams was married for nearly seven years to her husband who she shared a relationship with for 11 years. “I was a good wife, I prayed a lot and made sure to take care of him,” she says. The marriage was rough, and she really didn’t understand why; she loved him and thought he loved her too. They had their share of ups and downs, but there were a lot of downs. “I guess the best times in our lives were the births of our children,” she says.

She became depressed and couldn’t understand why her husband neglected her. She soon internalized his behaviors toward her and believed that she was doing something wrong. She cried and prayed for many years and attempted to stick the marriage out.

As her marriage progressed, so did her feelings of neglect and emptiness. Eventually, Williams would learn of the reasons why her marriage had fallen apart, and her husband’s act of alienation.

“My husband got sick and no one knew what was wrong with him.

Doctors could not find an answer until he took an HIV test,” she says. When the results came back positive, Williams says she was hurt and felt deceived. Still, she loved her husband and kept praying and refused to give up on the man she chose to build a life with and shared four children.

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After learning of her husband’s illness, he later shared with her that he did not want to be a partner in their marriage any longer and that he was homosexual. “My heart dropped but again I went to God praying for a miracle,” she confessed. Her husband ended up leaving the house and kids under the assertion that he wanted to start a new life. Meanwhile she says her life was her husband and children and she didn’t know how to live or even breathe with this sudden change.

Williams says she began to lean and rely on the only source that she knew could sustain her during her ordeal; and that was God. It was God that would continue to be on her side. She says God gets all the glory because He protected her and her children from contracting HIV. “We were evicted from our home, car was repossessed, but again God was always there.” As time passed, she was blessed to receive an old car from a friend and found a place to stay. One day, she received an unexpected check in the mail and she knew God was keeping her and was still in control.

All of the issues and problems continued to arise around the same time that her father was in need of a kidney. He knew of all her trials and the divorce and he didn’t want to ask her to give him a kidney. Without hesitation her best friend, Gamble stepped up to the plate and got tested to see if she was a match. “She is a remarkable friend that attempted to do a selfless act like giving her own kidney. I loved her for trying,” says Williams. Unfortunately test proved that Gamble wasn’t a match because she carried the sickle cell trait. So it was Williams turn and no one else in her family was a match except for her. It was a big decision for her, but one that she didn’t second guess.

“I look at them and I want them to know that I do the best I can and work really hard. I’m so blessed to have a beautiful family.”

Aminah Williams On July 18, 2012, Williams and her father underwent transplant surgery. She extended her father’s life by giving a part of hers to him.

Since that day, her organizations focus has also included organ donation.

Gamble and Williams now work to promote awareness about organ donation, and becoming a living organ donor. They also help to raise awareness of certain individuals who are in need of a kidney like, LaNeisa Henderson. “We helped to put on fundraisers and benefits in her name to help get the word out about her need of a kidney,” she says. They also partner with donor organization, Donate Life to provide pamphlets and information on organ donation.

Williams says she is inspired by her children. “I look at them and I want them to know that I do the best I can and work really hard. I’m so blessed to have a beautiful family. They model their lives after my behavior and have hearts to give and help others. I want them to know that God can do anything,” says Williams. She is also inspired when others say that her and Gamble encourage them to give a little more, love a little better and help others. This is what their organization is all about. h

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WINSTON-SALEM

The Twin City is Full of African American History

By Terry L. Watson Photography by Cheryl Streeter

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inston Salem, NC is a city full of history, especially that of African Americans.

Author Cheryl Streeter Harry has significantly captured much of this in her book, Images of Winston-Salem’s African American Legacy. What can be descried as a collection of images and information that details the impact and roles that many have played in shaping and building the city, readers will also be educated on some of the things that many history books have left out.

Opening with a foreword by Dr. Sir Walter Mack Jr., pastor of Union Baptist Church, readers are welcomed by the affectionate writings of Dr. Maya Angelou’s “Still I Rise”. Angelou who is also a resident of the ‘Twin City’ is joined by others to illustrate the African American experience dating as far back to the 1800s.

Streeter states that The Memorial Industrial School was born out of a need to fill a void when the Colored Baptist Orphanage, which was formed in 1905, was under financial hardship.

She also shares the story of George Black, the son of a former slave who came to Winston-Salem during the late 1800s. By working at the brickyard of a white brick maker, Black developed his skill and established his own brick making company. h

Winston Salem’s African American Legacy $21.99 Arcadia Publishing Available at local retailers, online bookstores, or through Arcadia Publishing www.arcadiapublishing.com (888)313-2665

On the Cover, Taken in 1954 by well-known photographer Frank Jones, this photograph shows the band of Atkins High School in the Winston Salem Christmas parade marching down North Liberty Street. On the next page (1)Students of the Katie B. Reynolds Hospital which opened in 1938 with 100 beds. (2)In 1979, Mutter Evans became the youngest African American on the second African American woman to own a radio station by purchasing WAAA at the age of 26. (3)George Black, the son of a former slave who came to Winston-Salem during the late 1800s. (4)Columbus Pitts was an early homeowner in Happy Hill with several lots. He is the grandfather of Maurice Pitts-Johnson who still owns some of his property in Happy Hill. (5)This 1950s photograph show the book mobile from the George Moses Horton Branch Library out in the community. (6)This photograph shows a class with Dr. Simon Green Atkins in front of Salter Industrial School in 1895. Dr. Atkins established this school that same year.

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Educational Feature

Sarah Stanfield Colleges and universities also use it to offer a select number of needbased scholarships and institutional aid. “If a student fills out an application to get into college, they should also fill out the FAFSA to pay for college. This also includes community college students,” says Stanfield.

Currently, Stanfield is doing outreach to promote the FAFSA and its importance to her students. Many colleges and universities have priority deadlines to receive the FAFSA, so the earlier it is filled out the better. She also recommends filling it out within a few days of filing out tax forms. If taxes have not been filed, applicants are able to estimate earnings from the previous year or their last pay stub for the year. She acknowledges this as a viable option to meet deadlines.

“Just remember, you will need to update the information in the FAFSA system once you file your taxes,” says Stanfield.

Paying for college is often complicated and stressful to think about— Stanfield has laid out a few tips to help:

Is College in Your Future?

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· Fill out your taxes early and Apply EARLY—The FAFSA is available starting January 1. In most cases, the early bird gets the worm. Grant funds for the government and colleges run out. The early you can get your application in, the better. Try to adhere to the March 1 deadline to get it done, even if you have to estimate.

By Yolanda Keith Photo by Sarah Stanfield

ith graduation on the way, the senior classes of Ben. L. Smith and James B. Dudley High Schools are looking forward to the future. Students at both schools strive for greatness with the help of their administrators, faculty, staff and their college adviser. The college adviser at Dudley and Smith is Sarah Stanfield. As a first generation graduate of University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 2011, she connects with students using her own challenges and successes while being an undergraduate student as inspiration. Having just gone through the stressful financial aid and application processes recently, she vividly remembers the emotion behind the complicated steps.

Both schools are partnered with the Carolina College Advising Corps of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. The College Advising Corps hires recent graduates of the university intentionally to follow a near-peer model. The program aims to support the schools in increasing college enrollment of first generation and underrepresented students. College advisers assist students and parents with the financial aid and application processes, college searches, and are charged to empower the students to successfully enroll into four and two-year post-secondary institutions.

This time of year, Stanfield is in a “FAFSA state of mind”. The FAFSA application stands for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. It is one of the primary ways students across the nation get assistance to pay for college. Stanfield says, “All of our students and parents should fill out the FAFSA.” The form is used by the government to issue federal grants and loans to students who are in need of financial assistance.

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· Keep copies – Remember to retain copies of your PIN, your completion sheet, passwords and usernames. Also keep a copy of your W-2 and social security numbers on hand. You may need to verify information sometime before enrolling into college and make sure you have everything handy. · Send the FAFSA to all the schools you apply to -- You will be asked where you want the FAFSA to be sent. Add all interested schools, even if you have not heard back about admission yet. Once accepted, all the schools you acknowledged will issue you a financial aid package. This can help you weigh options when deciding on where to attend and save time in the long run. · Watch your mail and e-mail daily – If additional information is needed from your schools, they will contact you. If they do, be ready to respond quickly with needed information. · Get help – You do not have to go through the process alone.

Students of Dudley and Smith can contact Stanfield anytime by calling the school or walking into her office, but they can also reach out to their counseling staff as well. Parents and students can also contact the school’s students plan on applying to or the federal financial aid office directly. See below for resources. h For additional information about FAFSA or paying for college visit the following websites: College Foundation of North Carolina http://www.cfnc.org/pay/pay.jsp Federal Student Aid—Office of US Department of Education: http://studentaid.ed.gov/prepare-for-college

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Linease Washington

A Cream Affair

Event Planning 28

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“Let us take care of the details, while you relax and be a guest at your event”

By Terry L. Watson Photos by Linease Washington

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inease Washington describes herself as the ultimate event planner who is professional that pays attention to even the most minuet detail. She is someone who listens to your dreams and turns them into reality. Reaching back into her life as a child, she has always been creative. Growing up, her mother would always ask, how in the world did she come up with her ideas. She realized then that she didn’t think or dream as her friends or family did and saw life in a different light. No matter what your budget is, she can pull it off.

Washington owns and operates, A Cream Affair, the premier one stop location for all your event needs. “From birthday parties, conferences, weddings and everything in between, we can handle everything from start to finish,” she says.

“Our clients decide how involved they would like us to be and we deliver the ‘oohs and ahhs’ thier guests will never forget.”

Washington says she has always been an event planner. “I was always the one that friends and family would come to for help in planning their event from church functions, parties or weddings,” she says. When she moved to High Point, N.C., God opened the door for her to be able to telecommute for her employer in Cambridge. Little by little she began to plan events which allowed her business to grow into a full-time event planning company.

Washington says she loves to provide her clients with the chance to enjoy their event. She accomplishes this by making her clients feel like guests. She developed this strategy after an experience at her daughter’s wedding. “We had planned the entire event and while the guests were enjoying themselves, my daughter and I were attending to the last details. I made a vow on that day that none of my clients would ever worry about the details and planning of their events,” she says.

Each client of Washington receives the Cream Experience, which consists of four different event packages. The Cream of the Crop (the full package), includes complete assistance through every phase of their event planning; Coffee and Cream (partial planning), which is designed for the busy client who needs a little more assistance; and the Cream Burlee (month of event), which is designed for those wishing to pass the torch a month or two before their event. Then finally there is the Whipped Cream Package (day of coordination), which is essential for clients who would like to plan their own event but ensure that it is completed without any hitches or surprises.

A Cream Affair is truly a testament of Washington’s walk with Christ. Cream is an acronym for “Christ Rules Everything Around Me”. She chose to add Affair to her business name because of her relationship with Christ and His love for her. “I know without Him, I can’t do anything,” she says. She is inspired by scriptures in the Holy Bible. Ecclesiastes 3:1 which states that there is an appointed time for everything and there is a time for every event under heaven; and Philippians 4:13 which says that “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me”.

Her life and business has been impacted by her mother, Ida Lee Dixon, Oprah Winfrey, and Stacie Jacobs, whose company helped plan the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte in 2012. She says she is also inspired by women in general and encourages them to go after their dreams, no matter what their struggle is. Going forward, Washington says she hopes to plan an event on a state or national platform such as the Oscars or an event for President Barack Obama. h

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Living Healthy High Cholesterol in African American Women cholesterol, the more likely you are to get heart disease. Triglycerides (treye-GLIH-suh-ryds) are another kind of blood fat that travels with cholesterol. Too high levels also can raise heart disease risk.

High cholesterol has no symptoms. Everyone 20 and older should have their cholesterol levels checked at least once every five years. Ask your doctor how often you should have your cholesterol levels checked.

Cholesterol (koh-LESS-tur-ol) is a waxy, fatlike substance found in all parts of the body. It comes from two sources: your body and the food you eat. Your liver makes all the cholesterol your body needs. Eating too much cholesterol, which comes from animal foods like meats, whole milk dairy products, and egg yolks, can make your cholesterol go up.

Being overweight and lack of physical activity also can make cholesterol go up. Too much cholesterol in the blood blocks it from flowing easily through your body. The higher your

Women need to know their cholesterol levels and what they mean. Your total cholesterol level actually comes from two different types of cholesterol: HDL and LDL cholesterol. HDL cholesterol is “good.” It helps protect your heart. So, you want to keep it high — above 40 md/dL. But LDL cholesterol is really bad for your heart. So, you want to keep it low — below 130 mg/dL. You have borderline high cholesterol if the total is 200–239 md/dL. You have dangerously high cholesterol if the total is 240 md/dL or more. A triglyceride level greater than 150mg/dL is considered high.

Nearly half of African-American women have a total cholesterol level that is too high.

Here are some things you can do to improve cholesterol levels: Keep a healthy weight.

Eat healthy. Eat lots of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Limit fats, especially saturated fats and trans fats. Eat chicken, turkey, and lean meats. Avoid organ meats, egg yolks, whole milk dairy products, fats like butter or lard, and packaged or processed foods. Limit sodium (salt).

Make physical activity a habit. Health benefits are gained by doing the following each week: two hours and 30 minutes of moderateintensity aerobic activity or one hour and 15 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity or a combination of moderate and vigorous aerobic activity and Muscle-strengthening activities on two or more days of the week.

If needed, take medicines to lower cholesterol as prescribed by your doctor.

Don’t smoke. If you smoke, try to quit.

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Info provided by WomensHealth.Gov

Huami Magazine Business Forum on Facebook Member Spotlight

Concessions Galore “Your Venue, Our Menu” We are a Special Events Mobile Caterer offering “carnival style” foods. We have over 18+ menu items to select from: Funnel Cakes, Sno-Kones, Nachos, Cotton Candy, Popcorn, Pretzels, Pizza, Smoothies, Hot Dogs, Hamburgers, Fish, and Fries. For the health conscious individuals we also carry Organic, Vegan, Gluten Free, Low Carb, Low fat/fat free products. We are mobile and can set up on site. We are open Summer, Winter, Spring and Fall. Having a special event...we can assist you. We also have many services available (Event Planning, DJ, Massage, Photography, Face painter) to make YOUR event a “WOW EVENT”!

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Thomas Scott & La Scène Media Group www.lascenemediagroup.com

La Scène Media Group is a film production company, founded by filmmaker Thomas Scott, Jr. which, though its alliance with a core of gifted writers, actors and entertainers, strives to provide premiere entertainment to the big and small screen.

As of January 2013, La Scène Media Group launched the Junior Filmmakers Initiative (JFI) program in partnership with Communities In Schools-Forsyth County and MechKW Design. The aim of the JFI is to familiarize elementary school students with the four stages of the filmmaking process. As the ultimate goal of the program, the 3rd, 4th and 5th graders of Kimberley Park Elementary conceptualized, wrote and will produce a short film which they entitled “Chihuahua Rampage”. Casting for the film was conducted with the participation of Donevan K. Cherry of CherVeli Media and Ken Watts of MechKW Design.

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GREENSBORO

VB Still Where Are You Now?

underlying issues of those who deal with R.A.T issues, (Rejection, Abuse & Trauma), every chance she gets. R.A.T. is an acronym she coined to describe the issues that lay dormant in our hearts and souls. Rats reside in dark places and eat on garbage that we throw out that becomes spoiled. With her analogy of issues of the heart, R.A.T.s are a result of unresolved hurt from our past that do not heal, that end up spoiling and infecting a perfectly good heart.

Still is currently dedicating her time to increase awareness of the infestations of R.A.T.s, by creating a safe place to expose these sensitive matters of the heart. As she works to complete the workbook to ManChaser and its sequel, she will include steps to detect and exterminate R.A.Ts, a crucial and needed process people need before they can experience any type of fulfilling relationship with self, God or others. To aid in this process she is hosting a series of relationship forums, called “We Need 2 Talk-Relationships”-The Series, with hopes of giving people the opportunity to share, receive and engage in healthy dialogue about relationship issues. She has teamed up with a great set of panelists that include singles and couples from various backgrounds and experiences to share their testimonies of what has worked, and what has not in their personal relationships. She hopes this will give the audience and even the other participates, objective insight into their own situations.

With the extensive use of social media, people have lost touch with intimacy, and one-on-one interaction, for this reason, Still chooses to use an intimate setting to discuss the most sacred part of our lives, our relationships. She first introduced, We Need 2 Talk-Relationship Forum, in 2009, it was one of Greensboro’s first styled forums on relationships. She is excited and honored to bring this back as a series which began on February 22, 2013, at Chandlar’s Florist & Coffee, 709 E. Market St. Greensboro, N.C. from 7 p.m. to 11 pm. The series will take place every other Friday starting in March. Dates and times are subject to change.

Still has since resigned from L.O.T.S.O. to become Win-Win Resolutions National Director of Development, a volunteer position to promote both the girls and boys mentoring programs. Her time is also filled by developing her own projects and assisting in other community events. She has been honored to serve as the co-host of The 7th & 8th Beautiful Black Women’s Festival and is proud to return for the 9th Annual Festival on May 18 at Aggie Park in Greensboro, N.C.

By Vonda K. Sampson Photos by Vonda K. Sampson

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t has been two years since the release of VB Still’s, “ManChaser, Overcoming Rejection”, yet she is still reaping the benefits of being transparent. The testimonies of ManChaser continue to pour in, and it reminds her of how important it is to allow others to see your vulnerable side. By telling of one’s weaknesses while exuding strength and endurance has affected people in a much more profound way then appearing to have it all together.

Since the last time you heard from Still, many things have transpired.

While she continues to be a voice of empowerment to women, and men who deal with relationship issues, she is careful to expose the

March/April 2013

Still takes this and every opportunity to encourage, motivate and bring understanding through her message of overcoming. Along with the Beautiful Black Woman Festival, she and her son, artist Marty B, will co-host their 3rd annual H.I.P. H.O.P Community J.A.A.M. However, this year the event will be expanded to a summer long program called, H.I.P. H.O.P Community J.A.A.M.s -Music in the Park, which will be held at community parks throughout the city, with the finale occurring at Barber Park at the end of the summer. This will give local artists a much needed outlet to perfect their craft while reaching the youth through positive messages, community involvement, all the while providing wholesome entertainment to the community.

With all her activity, Still was careful not to leave out her most important work, which is to help other voices come to print. She knows the power of sharing your testimony, and how the written word can help others to see things in a much clearer way, more than any other medium. When she published ManChaser, she vowed to help others with faith-based stories to become self-published authors. This year, she launched Write Steps-Authors Empowerment Team with the help of Angel Barrino, author of “His Purpose, My Praise”. The duo hopes to guide others through the publishing process by providing tips, motivation and one-on-one consultation services. h

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Perfect Image

“The Difference Looks Good on You�

Photographs by Howard Gaither

After consulting with each individual, we wil create an awesome hairstyle as well as provide you with advice and available retail products to maintain healthy hair. We provide excellent service in a comfortable, relaxing and professional environment.

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15 Years of Experience

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Felicia Poteat Owner & Operator

Loves to see the transformation involved in styling. A sharp haircut and color change can compliment not only someone’s look but also their image. She strives to provide her clients with a unique look for their personality and lifestyle.

Kim Shoffner

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“My goal is to make each individual feel their personal best”

“I specialize in unique and classy styles which guarantees a second look”

12 Years of Experience

14 Years of Experience

March/April 2013

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15 Years of Experience

Felita Briggs “ I provide an array of hairstyles, without compromising the healthiness of the hair.”

Miles Darden “I love the details, the revelation I get from perfecting my craft to become a true professional artist” 34

18 Years of Experience

Delisa McNiel “My goal is to provide my clients with a full service salon experience”

First Year of Service

March/April 2013

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GREENSBORO

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By Terry L. Watson Photos by Jazz’a

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native of the sunny state of Florida, Alexis Daniels-Mcthay (Jazz’a) received her Bachelors and Masters Degree from Grambling State University, in Grambling Louisiana. A wife and a mother of three children, Jazz’a believes her calling in life is to offer “pure, anointed music” that ushers in the presence of God, sets the atmosphere for a move of God, and assists in leading the unsaved into the Kingdom of God.

Her musical genre is a mixture of Jazz, Neosoul, and R&B. She has been singing since the age of three and performing since the age of five. Even then she knew she wanted to sing because music was the only thing that would keep her attention. Jazz’a remembers getting in trouble because instead of doing her school work, she was more interested in learning songs. She would also sing every commercial on television or the radio. In fact, she confesses that she was able to learn the letters of the alphabet only by singing them.

The thing that Jazz’a loves most about singing is how it revealed itself as a ministry to her. “I love how you can change someone’s whole attitude by just singing a song that could boost their spirits. I love the fact that God blessed me with the thing I love most to do,” she says. “I guess God said if this child insists on singing everything then I may as well give her the gift so she can shut up sometime.”

Her musical inspirations are Whitney Houston, Mahalia Jackson, Lashun Pace.

Jazz’a says the development of her unique style is the result of a lifetime of musical influence. She has been compared to Erykah Badu, Chaka Khan, and Angie Stone.

Her life has been impacted by God, family and her friends she says and accredits them with being a constant source of support.

“They encouraged me when I felt that I was not good enough at times. They love me for who I am and do not judge me. That gives me the inspiration to continue on my journey and not give up,” Jazz’a says.

Her ride hasn’t always been easy.

Thirteen years ago she lost her voice and could not sing. She could speak but every time she sang something her throat would just seem to close up. “I felt God was punishing me for not using my gift the way I should. My mother would always say ‘if you don’t use your gift God can and will take it away from you’. So when this happened to me I sort of shut down with embarassment,” she says. During this challenging time, her pastor called and told her that God said He was going to restore her voice but, this time she had to use it for His glory. She says she knew that this had to be God because no one knew what was going on with her. It was the second chance that allowed her to use her instrument for God. Jazz’a went on tour last year promoting her demo/CD and was able to visit Chicago, South Carolina, Georgia and Texas. She was able to perform for Bobby Jones Gospel while in high school. She was also a part of the ACTSO portion of the NAACP where she won first place in a local competition.

Music has changed her life and made her dreams become a reality. ‘Music has allowed me to go many places, meet people I have never seen before. Music has helped me to minister to people spiritually and mentally and lets me know that at the end of the day, I know what one of the purposes that God has for me to do on this earth,” she shares. Jazz’a says it is a dream of hers to one day minister is Paris, France.

Music is her healing, her life, and it makes everything she has gone through all worth it in the end.

Jazz’a is currently resides in Greensboro, N.C. and is available for various singing engagements including weddings, banquets, and conferences. h

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GREENSBORO

Rita’s Meals

by Design

By Terry L. Watson Photos by Mykel Media Company

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he describes herself as someone who was born with a gift. While others may consider it a burden, Rita Tisdale of Greensboro says she is doing what she absolutely loves, and that is a gift of service and humility. “I am a natural servant to everyone I meet. I didn’t ask for it but it’s simply who I am. It’s what I do best and it brings me the most joy and fulfillment,” she says.

As owner of Rita’s Meals by Design, Tisdale is privileged to share her cooking abilities with others. She provides personal chef services to anyone with an appetite and imagination. In addition, she offers meal preparation, dinner parties, pizza parties, special events, fresh organic produce, fruit and vegetable displays, kid cooking camps, etiquette workshops, adult cooking clubs, grocery shopping, kitchen organization and detailing.

Prior to starting her business, Tisdale traveled around town in a little white truck, with her cousin and godmother. For several years, they would sporadically cater events for family and friends and were known as “Savory Foods”. In 2008, she decided to officially launch a personal chef’s business to generate clients and expose others to her style of service through meal preparation.

Tisdale says her godmother kindled her entrepreneurial spirit many years ago as they spent late nights and early mornings prepping fruits and veggies, all the while making the impossible possible. Her mentor, Keisha B. Spivey, pushed her beyond anything she could ever imagine herself being capable of doing. She is also inspired by the numerous youth and fellow teachers that she has cooked with over the years.

Typical clients of Rita’s Meals by Design are quite naturally seeking healthy food options and lifestyle changes in their eating habits. Special event clientele are generally looking for excellent food taste and presentation with awesome service and simple elegance.

Pricing varies according to food selection and service, however meal plan pricing comes at a fixed rate but can be tailored to suit the needs of the client. h

Rita’s Meals by Design (336)207-0946 rtisdale03@hotmail.com

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BROADWAY’S “THE COLOR PURPLE” COMES TO THE TRIAD

By Nate Alston Photos by Nate Alston

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rom the classic Pulitzer Prize-winning novel by Alice Walker, and the moving film by Steven Spielberg, comes a soul-stirring new musical! THE COLOR PURPLE tells the unforgettable story of a woman who, through love, finds the strength to triumph over adversity and discover her unique voice in the world.

Set to an invigorating score featuring jazz, ragtime, gospel, and blues, THE COLOR PURPLE is a story of hope, a testament to the healing power of love and a celebration of life!

THE PRODUCTION For the first time ever, experience Broadway’s THE COLOR PURPLE in “the round”!

The Barn Dinner Theatre, America’s longest running dinner theatre brings this amazing “musical about love” to the Triad, April 5 through May 18.

The Color Purple will be brought to life by some of the Triad’s most talented stars and feature a live band. Produced by Ric Gutierrez; Directed by Donna Bradby; Musical Direction under George Pass; Choreography by Tina Yarborough-Liggins; Wardrobe by Gregory Horton.

For more information please contact

Nate Alston

nalston@barndinner.com 336-340-3195

The Barn Dinner Theater 120 Stage Coach Trail Greensboro, NC 27409 www.barndinner.com

THE HISTORY OF AMERICA’S LONGEST RUNNING DINNER THEATRE Conceived in the early 60’s, The Barn Dinner Theatre in Greensboro, N.C. was the second location of what eventually became 27 in the chain during its heyday. The shows were cast in New York and the cast would travel from one Barn Dinner Theatre to the next performing each show, as far as Texas and New Mexico. To accommodate the actors, each theatre had living quarters upstairs. These included kitchens, showers, and bedrooms. The casts actually waited on the tables, then rushed to get ready for the show. Stars such as Robert De Niro has graced this Greensboro stage.

As the decades went by, many of the locations were closed or sold off. Today the Greensboro location is the only remaining property from the original chain. The Barn is a member of the National Dinner Theatre Association (www.ndta.us).

THE EXPERIENCE Your evening begins with an award winning, all-you-can-eat three-tiered buffet (salad bar, main course, & dessert bar). An assortment of gourmet desserts and a full bar are available for an additional price. This 276-seat theatre has seating on all 4 sides of the stage, allowing patrons to experience the meal and show right from their table.

The transformation comes to life when The Barn’s “magic stage” makes its descent from the ceiling. Truly a unique experience!

MAKE YOUR RESERVATIONS THE COLOR PURPLE: The Musical About Love April 5 through May 19, 2013 Barn Dinner Theatre Call: (800) 668-1764 or (336) 292-2211 Online: www.barndinner.com In Person: 120 Stage Coach Trail, Greensboro, NC 27409 Groups of 20 or more Contact Group Sales Director, Joyce Kernodle (336) 292-2211 or Public Relations Director, Nate Alston (336) 340-3195 The Barn’s All New “Red Carpet” Group Service. Nate Alston, public relations director, is also available after hours/weekends and serves as a “mobile booking agent” for The Barn. He will actually travel to you to speak with you, your group and/ or group leaders about the theatre and shows. The Barn aims to please by giving the ultimate in customer service. h Call Nate Alston directly at (336) 340-3195 or send a detailed e-mail to: nalston@barndinner.com to schedule an appointment.

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“Where Elegance & Excellence Create Exquisite Memories�

www.dynaconeventcenter.com

336-458-8422

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**Image is not the actual appearance of the Lee Mykel Hair Studio.**

March/April 2013

www.leemykelhair.com

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Owned & Operated by Johnny Alston Lawn Maintenance · Landscaping · Mulching Tree Removal · Seeding & Fertilization Weed Control · Commercial & Residential

25yearsofExperience

Serving The Triad Since 1983

Located inside Rochelle Salon Suites 8929-40 JM Keynes Drive Charlotte, NC 28262 704.891.6061 www.nailzbylisadanielle.com

Divine Choice Consulting Group

Small Business Development, Non-Profit Start Up Grant Writing & Technical Assistance

Bobbi Meredith (704)287-8150 info@divinechoiceconsulting.com 11508 Sydney Crest Avenue Ste-100 Charlotte, NC 28213

Providing Educational Empowerment

Need Help with Math and/or Test Preparation?

We Can Help

Specializing in Math, Reading Comprehension, & Test-taking Skills/Strategies

Free Consultation

(336)339-2228

mathknowledge2011@gmail.com

2200-B East Market Street Greensboro, NC 27401

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January/February 2013

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Monae’s Hair Gallerie

Professional Service & Representation

2817-E East Market Street Greensboro, NC 27401

336-274-7173 or 336-255-8000

Speeding Tickets Careless/Reckless Driving Expired Inspections & Registrations Power of Attorney Health Care (Power of Attorney) Simple Will Contracts (Review & Draft)

Open 7 Days Per Week Sun. & Mon. (Appt. Only)

Monae Brown

Right Now Distributions

Salon Exclusive, Silkology/MacVoil, Shiva Live Gain, Silky Design Ridoc Wrap Caps, Glitz & Glamour T-Shirts, Aprons

Drew Patterson

336-324-7310

apenterprises7@yahoo.com

2801 C# Pinecroft Road Greensboro, NC 27407 (336)218-0045

Home . Auto . Life . Health

Transamerica

LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY MONUMENTAL LIFE INSURANCE CO.

2416 Suite-A High Point Road Greensboro, NC 27403 (336)851-0012

4411 W. Market Street Suite-103 Greensboro, NC 27407 Bus: 336-294-4644 Cell: 336-314-0539

Regina Gainey Agent

email: gainey35@aol.com

9620 University City Blvd. Ste. C Charlotte NC, 28213

704-503-6883

www.stylesbyshawn.com

Prosperity Styles

Hair Salon

First Time Client Special $10 off your First Visit - 10% off Loctician Services Specializing in Healthy Hair, Cuts, Color, Natural Styles Extensions and More...

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Katrina Lane Real Estate Broker

3316 C Battleground Avenue Greensboro, NC 27410

(336)457-4243

(888)315-5138 www.century21.com rightlanerealty@gmail.com

2201 Martin Luther King Drive Greensboro, North Carolina 27406 (336)790-4795 www.k&fenterprisesinc.com

Bonita’s Studio 4 Hair & Spa

2800-B High Point Road Greensboro, NC 27403 (336)254-9685

Mon-Friday 9am til 9pm - Saturday 8am til 5pm Boutique & Herbalife Distributor

Saturday, April 20, 2013

April 20, 2013

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www.jazzydesigngraphic.com

336.412.0012

Ken Roberson

(336) 451-7278 (Cell) • (336) 458-9343 (eFax) P.O. Box 13768 • Greensboro, NC 27415 ken_roberson@bellsouth.net

Realtor/BIC

“And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.”

Galatians 6:9

620 S Elm St - Suite 151 Greensboro, NC 27406 Screen Printing - Embroidery -T Shirts - Caps - Greek Wear

10% off Family Reuninon Orders “Your One Stop (336)965-7658 Shop”

(336)268-1455

1405 B# Yanceyville Street Greensboro, NC 27405

Maria Hicks-Few, Owner 1451 S. Elm-Eugene St. Suite 2008 Box 18 Greensboro, NC 27406

336-988-9822 mhicksfew@hrforu.org www.hrforu.org

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Robin Johnson & Debra Woods (336)965-7658

(336)268-1455

Monday - Saturday 8am til 6pm Walk-Ins & Appointments Available

March/April 2013

SPORTS MAGAZINE

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March/April 2013

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2802 St. Leos

Owned and operated by Tanika Harris B.S. in Early ChildhoodNC Education Street Greensboro, 27405

-Programs for Infants -Toddlers -Summer Camp & Drop In -Early Signers Program -Preschool

336-358-9177

-Open Monday - Friday 5:30am till 6:00pm -Saturday & Sunday 6:00am till 3:00pm -Extended Hours Available -Scholarships Available -Highly Skilled Staff

2802 St. Leos Street Greensboro, NC 27405 (336)358-9177 eduplaytoo@gmail.com