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huami North Carolina’s Community Magazine

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Volume One Issue 10 February/March 2010

An Ounce Of Prevention What is a difference maker? My definition is someone who seeks to discontinue traditions that always deliver predictable results. A difference maker must first acknowledge a need for change and subsequently act on their perceptions of what is right. They don’t just talk about the imperfections that surrounds them. Instead, they take the initiative and engage themselves in actions that will influence their beliefs and positively impact others. These actions are the kind that saves lives and preserve the futures of those who are statistically challenged and destined to fall into the perils of society’s short comings.

I was blessed to become reacquainted with a difference maker that changed my life many years ago. During the 1980’s, Pastor Ronald Levette devoted his time and efforts to the youth in the northeast part of Greensboro. Not yet ordained as a pastor, he founded a program, Ounce of Prevention, which informed young men about the dangers that awaited them. He also educated and armed them with alternatives and options to counter these obstacles. As a resident of the same community, he was aware of the violent and detrimental behaviors of the young black males. He prayed for a solution to this problem and God answered him with his program.

Every weekend, meetings were held at a local community center with young men who he methodically recruited by knocking on doors and canvassing neighborhoods. If you were a young male between the ages 11-18, then you met his criteria. In the “Bull Session” he encouraged everyone to be open and talk about the things on their minds and challenges they were facing. He instilled the “Three R’s” which were Respect, Responsibility, and Reverence towards God. He wanted to ensure that every youth involved in OOP obtained a clear understanding of the love of God. He told us that God had plans for our lives and that we all had a purpose. His method of prevention was to introduce the program participants to convicts and ex-cons and allow them to share their stories of misfortune and give instructions on how to avoid them. He told us that in this world, sometimes just one mistake could ruin our entire future.

Pastor Levette’s concern for my life as well as many other young men has allowed me to truly appreciate his efforts. I learned the power of speaking promise into someone else’s life. I was a student, a witness, and recipient of the work of someone who unselfishly made a difference.

Terry L. Watson HUAMI MAGAZINE

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Unity Builders Inc Otis Hairston Barrington Riddick Optionz House of Sole

The Pink Cupcake

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Revitalizing A Community Bishop Terry L. Young

13 More Life To Live Lacey JonesMatthews

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Black History On Film

Features

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Community Connection

John Harvey & Eve Simms Cakes & More

Sebastians Dessertery Living Healthy

Magic Mondays A Life Of Service

Major Hollis Payne Palmica & Letesha

Prosperity Styles Salon God On His Mind

Pastor Darryl Alexander Todd Shoes For All Seasons

Optionz-House of Sole A Heart For Art

Jazzy Design Graphics

Cover Story

Otis Hairston

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Allyn Healthcare Professionals, LLC

Bobbiette David

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Pampering At Its Finest The Pink Cupcake Spa February/March 2010

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John Harvey

A Life Of Service

By Terry L. Watson Photo by John Harvey Charlotte He made history in 1992 by becoming the first African American agency manager in the eastern region for State Farm Insurance. He leads an active life in his community by offering his time and expertise to those who may greatly benefit from it. He describes himself as a strong proponent of education for the youth and clearly

addresses their needs of being loved, understood and taught lifelong skills.

John Harvey of Charlotte, NC began his career in Raleigh after graduating from St. Augustine’s College with a bachelors degree in Business Administration. In 1970, he landed a job with Prudential and spent 11 years with them in various roles including management. In 1982, he joined State Farm in the Triangle area and served as an agency manager over the next 13 years. In June of 1995, Harvey moved to his current location in Charlotte.

John’s resume includes several programs and organizations that he feels very passionate about. His affiliations include Ebenezer Baptist Church, 100 Black Men of Charlotte, the Charlotte Chamber of Commerce and The United Negro College Fund (promoting it on a national level).

He is also President of the Charlotte Chapter of the St. Augustine’s Alumni Association and a founding member of the St. Augustine’s Falcon Foundation.

“I feel that what you do will come back to you in a larger quantity,” says Harvey. “You have more control of your future than anyone else has.

You must be willing to pay a price for something of value!” Harvey says that he is always trying to send a positive message. “We must realize that problems are really an opportunity to improve the situation,” he says. “We must replace fear with faith, face our failures and focus more on the present. We can’t allow negative individuals to share too much of our lives.”

John Harvey credits his ability to be a force in the lives of others to his supporting cast of his family and marriage of 37 years. He plans to spend the rest of life teaching others the value of planning for the future and the risks they face in everyday living. He believes that if he becomes better organized and a better listener that he will be able to help individuals improve their situations. As an insurance agent, Harvey hopes to help African Americans understand how to use life insurance to create and transfer wealth.

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Eve Simms

By Terry L. Watson Photo by Eve Simms Durham Durham native Eve Simms describes herself as a dedicated and hard working young lady whose primary goal in life is to impact the lives of others. A graduate of Winston Salem State University, she proudly embraces her bachelor’s of science degree in Psychology and says she remains a strong advocate for the disabled

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Young, Talented, & Gifted says she experienced trouble with expansion and informing prospective clients of her services.

“Time was a challenge,” she says. “I didn’t have much free time at my disposal and I had to learn how to divert and delegate it appropriately.” As time went on, Eve says marketing and promotion became easier. Meeting the needs of her disable population and providing them with her services remains a constant challenge.

With most success stories, there always has to be a stable supporting cast. Eve says her family and faith is her rock. “They have always supported me with words of encouragement and my faith and belief in something better helps me to stay grounded with who I am. My faith allows me to be confident instead of cocky,” says Simms.

Eve says that quality customer service is the most important product she provides. “Letting them know that quality hair care doesn’t always have to be costly. Most of my clients are recommended by others and I back up my promise with great service,” says Simms.

When it’s all said and done, Eve wants everyone to know the reasons for doing what she does is a result of her acknowledgement of her blessings. “I know I’m blessed and being so requires me to be a blessing to others,” says Simms. “I believe that you must never fall short of giving your all, and do what you love and love what you do!”

population of our society.

Besides accomplishing a significant deal in the classroom, Eve also heads two small businesses, Nless Necessities and Natural Styles by Eve. Nless Necessities began three years ago after being presented to her by a neighbor. Services provided this entity includes personal household products and is also a career opportunity for those interested in an additional form of income.

“I believe individuals shouldn’t have to worry about losing their jobs and should focus more on their future,” says Simms. This is exactly what her company provides. Products include cleaning products, skin care products, energy drinks and dietary products, clothing items, as well as standing partnerships with major retail chains such as Pet Smart, Barnes & Nobles, Office Depot and Omaha Steaks. Active in her community she is a regular supporter of the Easter Seals organization.

Her excellent skills of braiding and locking natural hair with over ten years of experience played a major role in her decision to start Natural Styles by Eve nearly four years ago. By appointment only provided service, Eve covers the Raleigh/Durham areas as well as Greensboro, Winston-Salem, and Charlotte. Her clients include children and adults who require routine service of braids and locs. The cost range is between $25 and $100.

As she launched her business ventures, Eve

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The Pink Cupcake Spa & Enrichment Center Pampering At It’s Finest

By Tonya Dixon Photos by Howard Gaither Photography

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Not too crazy about “kindergarten classmates” There’s a salon just for them - the children’s salon is divided!!!

John Grimes (Co-Owner) is also on staff as a Licensed Barber The Pink Cupcake Spa is happily supported by Influance Hair Care Products

he Pink Cupcake Spa is like no other. As commonplace as spas and salons are, it has managed to carve out a niche that has been virtually untapped. Potential clients will be hard pressed to find any other spa capable of providing the level of excellence found at The Pink Cupcake. From start to finish, The Pink Cupcake will enrich, transform, renew, rejuvenate, celebrate and pamper its customers. A full service spa and salon, The Pink Cupcake has reinvented the spa experience. Everyone from mothers and daughters to grade school friends will be able to come and receive overwhelming satisfaction.

Although unique in comparison to many other spas, The Pink Cupcake standard is not a novel idea or uncharted territory for its owner, Agatha Grimes. Agatha has over 15 years experience as a cosmetologist and salon owner, Grimes has come to realize that outer beauty certainly is only skin deep. Grimes admits, “I firmly believe that inner beauty and love and respect of self does more to enhance a young woman’s outer beauty than any hairstyle or manicure could ever do.”

The Pink Cupcake strives to engage each and every client on a personal level. The premise is that while the outward beauty is enhanced it will only be a reflection of the inner beauty. This mantra is the cornerstone of The Pink Cupcake way of life. Maybe it can be described as the fingernail base coat; or the first layer of a haircut; or perhaps similar to a pedicure presoak.

Before the final, celebrated revealing there must first be a foundation to build upon. Yes, The Pink Cupcake stands alone; but the question arises as to how? Simply put enrichment produces enhancement. In addition to the normal services associated with a salon and spa, mini workshops are offered to women of all ages with topics varying from self esteem to etiquette to healthy relationships. Clients are pampered while receiving vital information.

The spa specializes in meeting the needs of the tween and teen girl; the possibilities are endless. “I wanted to open a salon not only for adults, but also for little girls. Parents have a safe place to bring their young queens to not only get pampered but to be enlightened. They [tweens and teens] have their own full service salon so they can be pampered in an environment that is sheltered from the adult world.” Grimes knows it is vitally important for young girls to be celebrated. “I have a heart for all women. I want to teach young ladies at an early age that it is alright to love and pamper themselves. Through my community service work, I began to see that many of the young women, and in some cases little girls that I encountered did not know how to appreciate themselves and some lacked the basic respect and love of self to keep them undergirded in the fast-paced world we live in,” says Grimes.

The celebrated Pink Cupcake young lady becomes the princess for the day. Party packages are offered to celebrate birthdays or any other special days they’d like to share with family and friends. In addition to party packages for teens and tweens, the Pink Cupcake also has signature ‘Ladies Night Out’ packages that can be customized for various groups of women who want to share an evening or afternoon of pampering.

To truly understand The Pink Cupcake Spa experience a visit is certainly in order. Upon arrival, a Pink Cupcake lady can expect to be warmly greeted by the receptionist. With a total of eight stylists (Dana Green, Mercedes Garrison, Jennifer Foster, Travia Harrington, Veronica Lewis, Charlene Parker, Tracy Hendrix and Agatha Grimes), and receptionist LaRonte Manica and nail technician Angel Steward, a client can expect attentive service from start to finish. The Pink Cupcake lady is treated like a queen.

She is offered to indulge in the spa’s signature cupcakes and sparkling pink punch. What a way to start off your relaxation of being pampered. For the young Pink Cupcake client, she is escorted to the children’s salon where she can expect to hear the hottest and latest child-appropriate music; maybe some Taylor Swift or Miley Cyrus, while becoming a princess. Before leaving the spa clients are encouraged to visit the “Cupcake Shop.” They can purchase products to maintain the “glamour” or even buy fashionable jewelry, Pink Cupcake t-shirts, sleepwear, or hygiene products. The client is accommodated in every aspect. The goal is to make the experience far more than what was expected.

When patrons visit The Pink Cupcake Spa they see a polished, well-oiled machine. The staff is board certified and knowledgeable. The products and services are top of the line. The facility is spotless. The attention to detail is unparalleled. Nevertheless, The Pink Cupcake was once a bare bones vision that took nearly two years to go from conception to a fully functioning spa. Grimes will be the first to admit the process was not always easy. Prior to opening the Pink Cupcake Spa she was very apprehensive. While she was already a salon owner, Bouvier’s Hair Boutique, she was not confident she was ready to make her vision for the Pink Cupcake a reality. However, after seeking direction from God, forming a board, HUAMI MAGAZINE 10

and confirming with her mentors and intercessors she signed the lease and began the leg work. Working against some opposition—many could not see the vision—Grimes and her husband, co-owner John Grimes, Jr., would spend long and countless days and nights painting, and pulling up carpet. There were many nights that she recalls leaving the facility with “dirt up to our ears.” But she and husband, John continued on because they knew that God had given her the vision and since it came from Him, it had no other choice than to come to fruition. She confesses that at times the project would consume them both entirely.

“I had people constantly praying for me because I was completely absorbed in this vision. I had close friends, clients, and family members that would come by at various times to bring me dinner or check on me while I was here.” Grimes also notes that having a fully committed partner, in her husband, made the seemingly insurmountable task attainable. Family and friends would come by and check on me, sweep a floor, paint a wall, bring dinner or snacks; they did anything they could to help out. I am very blessed to have an awesome team of support. While working tirelessly at the future site of The Pink Cupcake she continued to work at her current salon.

“The Pink Cupcake Spa is truly a God-given vision made reality by stepping out on nothing but faith. Everything from the concept to the curtains was given to me by God. After the strenuous transformation of this building so many of my supporters came together to make my grand opening beyond a success,” says Grimes. Miraculously, Grimes went from being the owner of an 1100 square foot salon to one of over 5000 square feet. A grand opening and ribbon cutting ceremony was held on November 9, 2007. “Words cannot express the way I felt that day. To this day I am speechless when it comes to all of the hard work and thoughtless effort put into bringing The Pink Cupcake into existence.” Agatha Grimes knows one important truth—ownership of the spa is absolutely not about her. She understands that she has an obligation to impart the truths she has learned, and the skills she has been taught with others throughout the community.

With her staff in tow, Grimes--keeping in line with The Pink Cupcake mission--often partners with many community service groups throughout the year to offer empowerment sessions throughout the community. The spa also assists with family nights at a local Chick-Fil-A, and other events geared toward youth. They are involved in many community fundraisers, is a sponsor of the Buddy Walk—an event that raises awareness and funding for individuals with Down Syndrome, and have donated services to be auctioned for various organizations as well as countless other involvements. She feels it’s important that clients, especially the young ladies, see The Pink Cupcake in action practicing what they preach—showcasing their inner and outer beauty. “As a little girl, I watched my mother, grandmother and aunts work hard to provide a home for our families and take care of our men. What I didn’t always see was the appreciation given to those strong and caring women for all that they gave to others, so that is what I set out to do.” Grimes takes a holistic approach regarding The Pink Cupcake. Once again, if the inner man is whole and complete, which produces a lasting beauty, the outer man will exude its radiance.

The Pink Cupcake Spa is on pace to expand within its four walls as well as throughout the community. More events are planned to further strengthen and enrich clients as well as bridging the gap between the generations. Some new enhancements have already materialized coowner John Grimes is a licensed barber and has recently begun cutting hair on weekends in the salon. Grimes stated that, “we noticed a lot of dads, brothers and other male family members coming to the Cupcake waiting for services to be completed on their daughters, wives, and mothers. It seemed a natural addition to add a little something for the men. They find it comfortable and inviting and don’t mind telling others that they have been to the Cupcake!” Determined to keep growing and changing for the better, Grimes divulges that arrangements are being made to franchise in other states as well as other areas of North Carolina.

Grimes takes nothing for granted. She appreciates everything and everyone that have been instrumental in her successes. “God has truly blessed me and my business,” says Grimes. She believes the key to The Pink Cupcake’s success lies in all those who have crossed its path; from The Pink Cupcake clients to those they serve with throughout the community. “Every young lady that I have established a close relationship with, all the young women I’ve encountered for over 15 years who cried out for someone to just listen . . . all the interceders who pray for myself, my family and my vision, and everyone who has helped my vision become a reality . . .”

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For more information about The Pink Cupcake Spa, please visit them online at www.thepinkcupcake.org or call (336)274-7465 or visit their location at 120 West Smith Street in Greensboro, N.C.

Greensboro, North Carolina

Maj. Hollis R. Payne III Making The Most Of An Opportunity

By Terry L. Watson Photos by Major Hollis R. Payne III

H

e prefers to be recognized as Chuck but Major Hollis R. Payne of the United States Airforce is comfortable with being addressed by his various titles. He has accomplished quite much during his military career including becoming an honor graduate from the Air Force Basic Military Training at Lackland Air Force Base to his present status.

Patriotic and committed to service, he has devoted his life to the interest of his country.

After graduating from Grimsley High School in 1983, Payne decided to enlist himself in the Airforce as a jet engine technician to satisfy a desire to travel the globe. After completing basic training, he realized how important education and goal focused objectives were for an adult. This realization encouraged Payne to strap himself with skills that would provide stability and secure his future.

His first assignment was to Langley AFB in Virginia.

While there he worked on the F-15 fighter aircraft and travel on a number of temporary duty (TDY) assignments throughout the United States as a jet engine mechanic on the flight line and test cell to ensure F-15s were mission ready to defend our country at a moment’s notice. While stationed there, he was selected as Outstanding Airman of the Quarter and Professional of the Quarter. His next assignment lead him to Kadena AFB in Okinawa, Japan and then on to the Philippines and Korea before settling at Randolph AFB, Texas.

As he began to excel as a jet engine mechanic so did his ranking. His first major enlisted promotion was to Staff Sergeant (E-5), and then to Technical Sergeant (E-6) and Master Sergeant (E-7) in record time, four years, six years and ten years respectively. Payne then worked on two different weapon systems, T-38 and T-37 trainer type aircraft used to instruct Air Force pilots.

Not to slow down for rest, he found time to obtain two bachelor’s degrees from Wayland Baptist College; one in Aviation Management and the other in Business Administration. He was also selected into the AF Officer Training School (OTS) program to garner an officer commission.

He then made his way back to North Carolina and Seymour Johnson AFB and acquired even more accolades before receiving a Masters degree from Embry Riddle Aeronautical University. He was deployed to Qatar AFB during Operation Desert Storm to support desert operations two times while assigned to Seymour Johnson AFB. Even more assignments came about and Payne embraced them all with the exact seriousness as he had previously. As he grew so did his ranking until meeting his present salutation of Major. However, the bus didn’t stop there. He obtained a second masters degree in military science and will be pinned on as a Lieutenant Colonel in April of this year. “I may retire in 5 to 6 years, if and when I do; I will start another career in the civilian world to share my military experience with the corporate world,” says Payne.

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Greensboro, North Carolina

More Life To Live

Lacey Jones-Matthews Story of Beating The Odds

By Terry L . Watson Photos by Mykel Media Company

D

uring the month of March in 2005, after giving herself a breast examination, Alecia Jones-Matthews, who likes to be called Lacey, discovered a lump in one of them. Initially shocked and fearful, she waited for two weeks before sharing her finding with her doctor. Her OB-GYN gave her an additional breast examination and decided that it needed to be looked at further. Lacey then had a mammogram, ultrasound and biopsy all in the same day and soon learned that her fears were correct. She was diagnosed with breast cancer on the first day of April in 2005.

The news of her diagnosis completely devastated her, and she immediately thought about dying. As she drove home from the doctor, she thought of how to break the news to her family. Would her husband have the strength to deal with the drastic changes they were about to endure was a question she had trouble answering.

Following several visits with her doctor and plastic surgeon, Lacey says she was scheduled to have a lumpectomy, a surgical removal of a tumor without removing much of the surrounding tissue or lymph nodes. This would be followed by chemotherapy and radiation.

After undergoing an MRI, she was to have a port-a-cath installed, which is a small medical appliance that is placed beneath the skin that is used to make administration of chemotherapy easier.

Her two young children, Tyrone (8) and Tynese (2), probably couldn’t comprehend the seriousness of her illness and she waited until the night before her surgery to break the news with Tyrone “I asked him if he had ever heard of the word cancer,” says Mathews. His response was “yes” and that he had learned about it on the news and that it makes people sick and they die. “I told him that I had cancer in my breast and that I was going to the hospital the next day to have the cancer removed from my body,” Lacey describes. Her son then asked her with tears in his eyes, “Mommy are you going to die?” She told him no!

On the day she arrived at the outpatient center to have the procedure performed, Mathews says, “I was told the surgery had been cancelled and to contact her doctor ASAP!” The following day upon meeting with her surgeon, Lacey says she learned the MRI had found two additional lumps. This finding changed everything as she would now have to undergo a total mastectomy which would remove the entire breast. This news only devastated her more as she would have to endure even more tests and more appointments with her doctors.

On May 11, 2005, she had the mastectomy performed. This procedure was followed by six months of chemotherapy and weekly injections from her plastic surgeon to help reconstruct her breast. “I met with my plastic surgeon every two weeks for injections, my implant was performed just six months after surgery, and an areola attached three months following this. A month later the areola site was colored,” says Lacey.

After receiving her implant, it was very clear that Lacey was in the toughest fight of her life.

She says the toughest part about fighting cancer was the fight itself because you don’t know what to expect and everything moves so fast. She began to rely on everyone to help her make a full recovery. “I believe that I have favor from God,” she says. “I stayed in prayer and relied heavily on my faith. I was always told that God doesn’t put more on you than you can bear. God knew that I could handle this challenge in my life and by seeking Him and staying positive I would be able to endure everything during my treatment!”

Lacey says she was able to find inspiration in other patients that were in treatment with her.

Some told her she was too young to be there.

She was told that she was too happy because she came into the treatment room with a smile on her face every time. “The smile came from God,” she explains and says she told the other patients that God can put one on your face as well. “I had a lot to smile about. God kept me for another week and I continued to get better!”

Right after surgery Lacey says she began to experience some very low moments. While individuals battle illnesses such as cancer, the need for a support system is paramount. Lacey February/March 2010

says her support came from her entire family and her Lord and Savior. “My family was there with me every step of the way including the day of my surgery and at my home where they assisted me with daily household duties I could no longer perform,” Mathews says. “I was not able to dress myself for a while, and I remember calling my neighbor for help with doing my hair.

I wasn’t able to do my daughter’s hair, get her dressed or even play with her.”

In the months following her surgery her kids celebrated birthdays, but she was unable to plan parties for them and was told by her oncologist that she could not attend church or go out to crowded places because of her weak immune system. After two weeks of treatment, her hair began to shed and fall out. She says the sight of combing her hair and having it fall out was indescribable. By the fourth week of treatment, Lacey says she was completely bald, and she began to wonder how this would affect her family. Fortunately, family members kept her kids busy so they would not see the effects of the chemotherapy treatments. She wondered how her son’s classmates would react to seeing her this way. To her astonishment, Lacey was told that she was more beautiful than ever. “I cried like a baby when one of my son’s classmates told me that I was pretty with no hair on my head,” she says.

Lacey’s cancer went into remission in January of 2006, and her lookout on life immediately changed for the better. She was contacted by the Regional Cancer Center and asked to befriend a survivor like herself who was the same age. The patient was having a hard time dealing with her illness so Lacey accompanied her to treatments and coached her through the process. She recalls meeting another young lady while she was receiving treatment.

Because she was able to connect with her, Lacey says it helped ease her worries and feelings of loneliness. “Having someone to coach you that has experienced the same ordeal is great support,” she says.

Now, she gives advice to anyone who may be facing the same challenges she did and willingly tells her story to anyone that will listen. “They need to know there is a light at the end of the tunnel,” she explains. “Doing self examinations are very critical for early detection. If there is a history of breast cancer in your family, please have a mammogram. I think knowledge is the key, and families need to share health issues with each other. I see life as a blessing, and I am living everyday to the fullest. It could have been another way but what God has for me, it is for me. I say that every day,” she says. “It took a long time for me to get to this place in my life, but if my story can help just one, I will keep telling it so that it can help others!”

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Greensboro, North Carolina

Otis Hairston

Black History Through His Eyes

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Huami Magazine Celebrates Black History Month

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By Terry L. Watson Photos by Otis Hairston

he likelihood of him becoming a minister was greater than Otis Hairston becoming a professional photographer. It made perfect sense for him to continue a legacy in his family and succeed his father, Reverend Otis Hairston, Sr. who had also succeeded his father, Reverend J.T. Hairston. Preparations were made but for his pastoral tenure and well expected because his grandfather had lead Shiloh Baptist Church in Greensboro for 53 years and his father devoted his life to serving his congregation and his community. However, Otis had another calling on his life; to capture the beauty of God’s people and his earth through the lens of his camera.

Born in Raleigh, Otis moved to Greensboro in 1958. He later attended and graduated from James B. Dudley High School and later enrolled at A & T College, now NC A & T State University, and studied Industrial Arts.

He was told by fellow students he would receive an “Automatic A” if he added photography to his class schedule and attend the class, and so he did. “My photography career happened by accident,” he says. “I took a photography class as an elective, and my instructor, Mr. Leon Hardy, noticed my growing interest in photography, my potential and creativity.

He soon provided me the opportunity to work as his assistant.”

As he assisted Mr. Hardy with photography assignments on campus and other places in the community, he realized the value in the opportunity of working with him. “He was an exceptionally skilled photographer in all aspects of the trade,” says Otis. While working with Mr. Hardy, he was given the opportunity to work as a student photographer in the office of Public Relations. Otis was mentored by Ellis Corbett who served as Director of Public Relations and Photographer.

This opportunity helped develop his skills in public relations photography which has proven to be his forte for the last 40 years. He has traveled nationally and internationally, photographing African American leaders and celebrities.

As a student he began his career using a 4 x 5 speed graphic camera and twin lens reflex camera. Because color film was nonexistent, he was taught the art of exposing black & white film, portraiture, print and processing under Corbett and Hardy. When he opened University Studio in January of 1971, one important decision he made that impacted his career was joining the Greensboro Chamber of Commerce. “I had the opportunity to meet Hal Sieber who provided photography assignments at the chamber and gave me the chance to meet many city leaders,” says Otis. He later introduced him to Bob Brown, a former President Nixon Aide at the White House and owner of B & C Associates, a public relations & consulting firm in High Point. This was the beginning of many assignments that led to his travels and photographing national celebrities and African American leaders.

His first major assignment with B & C Associates was covering the state visit of Nigerian President Shagari to the United States. This included photographing him as he addressed the United Nation and his visit to the White House with President Jimmy Carter. He later received a request from President Shagari to photograph him for his official portrait in Nigeria. During Shagari’s visit to the United States, Otis had the opportunity to work beside Moneta Sleet, a renowned photographer for Ebony magazine. He took him under his wings and taught Otis much about covering major events.

The list of individuals that Otis has captured on film is endless. He says that many historical figures and celebrities all share one thing in common; they were captured on film by him. This includes individuals such as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Pope John Paul II, President Jimmy Carter, Shirley Chislom, Benjamin Hooks, Cicely Tyson, Oprah Winfrey, Maya Angelou, Coretta Scott King, The Greensboro Four, Ted Kennedy, Andy Young, Rosa Parks, Walter Cronkite, Morgan Freeman, Nelson Mandela, Jesse Jackson, Justice Henry Frye, Alex Haley, Arthur Ashe, and Jerry Rice. He has published two books, Greensboro: Black America Series and Picturing Greensboro: Four Decades of African American Photography. In addition he has published three prints including the

Photo by Trudy Jackson February/March 2010

David Richmond of the Greensboro Four with his parents during the 1980s.

Astronaut Ron McNair with his mother after celebrating his first space mission in the early 1980s.

Martin Luther King, Sr. “Daddy King” speaking during the opening of the King Center in Atlanta.

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“I was the first photographer and artist to exhibit at the King Center in Atlanta upon its opening” Otis Hairston GREENSBORO FOUR, Martin & Jesse, and a limited edition print: Preservation Of Justice which depicts the swearing in of Justice Henry Frye to the North Carolina Supreme Court as the first African American in 1983.

Retired North Carolina A & T State University Chancellor Edward Fort was is avid landscape photographer and invited Otis to join him in his travels nationally and abroad to capture the beauty of God’s earth. These travels included the Grand Canyon, Alaska, Japan, Hong Kong, Spain, France, Norway and other countries. “It is not often you are blessed with a career that you truly love. Capturing images of my heroes and sheroes, traveling internationally and nationally to capture the beauty of the earth and documenting much history of my community has been a blessing from God. My greatest love of photography is the realization that everytime my camera clicked it was capturing a moment in history,” says Hairston.

For more information about Otis Hairston or to purchase prints of his images or books visit www.imagesbyotis.com or call (336)574-2286

Pictured from top to left are Dr. Maya Angelou at Bennett College in Greensboro, Arthur Ashe at The Waldorf Astoria in New York, Alex Haley at NC A & T State University in Greensboro, Cicely Tyson at the White House, Andrew Young in Atlanta at the King Center, Ralph Abernathy at SCLC Convention in Birmingham Alabama, Coretta Scott King at Racine Wisconsin, and Shirley Chisholm at NC A & T State University.

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February/March 2010

Hayes-Taylor YMCA

Celebrates Black History Month

Receive $10 off the cost of following programs for the entire month of February & March when you mention this ad in Huami Magazine

• Basketball • Soccer • Wrestling • Flag Football • Cheerleading • Karate • Personal Trainer • Swim Lessons • After School • Daycare

Without Discount Cost is $55(members) $80(non-members)

In addition the Membership joining Fee is Waived!

YMCA of Greensboro

This coupon may be used as a guest pass Hayes Taylor YMCA 1101 East Market Street

(336)272-2131

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YMCA of Greensboro

Sandra Swann

Membership Director 336.272.2131 We build strong kids, strong, families, strong communities 1101 East Market St•Greensboro•(336)272-2131

want to advertise? call (336)340-7844

February/March 2010

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Greensboro, North Carolina

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February/March 2010

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By Terry L. Watson Photos by Sebastians Dessertery

ebastian Todd is passionate about the art of the culinary and specifically cake design. Humbled to create cakes for his selective clients, he says it’s an absolute thrill beyond belief to have the ability to allow the freedom of expression to show itself within the cakes he prepares. Unfortunately, there are some that still find it hard to believe that an African American male has chosen the profession of cake design and excelled at it. He has embraced his gift and decided to share it with cake lovers everywhere.

Sebastian by the greek term means “revered and honored”. Yet, instead of shadowing its profound meaning, Sebastian redirects it to his area of development and makes it personal by appreciating this honor and privilege to provide the ultimate in cakes. A native of Greensboro, he graduated from the North Carolina School of Arts in Winston Salem. His journey into the world of cake design soon followed his achievement as he began working in bakeries in local grocery stores. He understood this as just as a beginning and moved on to work at Ganache in Greensboro until he realized his calling to become a business owner and the legacy of Sebastians Dessertery began.

Sebastians Dessertery was born out of a hobby Sebasitian undertook in 1995 by creating cakes that brought significant joy and inspiration to all that tasted them. Now, Sebastians Dessertery is a bakery specializing in custom work as well as providing more than just the ordinary in cake flavor combinations usually found within the

“Our cakes reflect our dedication for all those who have made Sebastians Dessertery their bakery of choice, and for that we are truly grateful”

For more information about Sebastians Dessertery or to order one of their delicious creations, please contact them directly at (336)558-4518.

larger metropolitan areas. Sebastians started his business alongside his wife Emily on very simple principles; all of his clients shall find his creations irresistible, delectable, as well as enticing and beautiful. “We personally think of all of our clients as notable. Our cakes reflect our dedication for all those who have made Sebastians Dessertery their bakery of choice, and for that we are truly grateful,” he explains. From wedding cakes to birthday celebrations and all sorts of special events, both corporate and quaint gatherings, Sebastians Dessertery is the bakery of many well spoken reputations.

There’s a vast variety of cakes to choose from at Sebastians Dessertery. There is the Colossal Karat, German Chocolate Amaretto, Lemon Creme, Lemon Pineapple Creme, Mississippi Mud, Oreo Cookie Ganache, Pineapple Strawberry Ganache, Pumpkin Cinnamon Creme Cheese, Butter Hazelnut, Caramel Macciato, Caramel Praline Torte, and Chocolate Creme Cheese just to name a few. True to his nature, Sebastian is far from traditional and for Valentines Day, his creation is in a league of its own. Designed with an auora of love in mind is a 24kt gold heart surrounded with chocolate heart shaped designs. “This is bound to touch the wanting of womens hearts everywhere,” he explains.

Like most businesses, his has also faced many challenges and obstacles. He says, “We must constantly and overly prove ourselves daily to gain the belief of our ethnic society, but because Sebastiians Dessertery carries the passion of our art so intensely within our hearts, our skeptics become fewer and fewer than the day before. Our greatest inspirations come from our clients that continue to challenge us with new designs and artistic creations!”

February/March 2010

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High Point, North Carolina

UNITY BUILDERS INC

Bishop Terry L. Young

“Building A Community Together”

High Point Humanitarian Of The Year

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February/March 2010

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By Tonya Dixon Photos by Brad McKenzie

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man of vision with a sincere heart for God’s people, Bishop Terry Young, turned what once was a small church ministry into a fully functioning, faith-based community development corporation. A native of Greensboro, he pastors Morningstar Baptist Church in Burlington. He is a graduate of Shaw University and holds a BA in Religious Philosophy. He’s a father of two boys, Tyler and Joshua, and devotes his heart to his wife Geneva.

His initial vision was to empower and enfranchise low resource families within the immediate Burlington and Alamance County, North Carolina community. His goal was to provide homeownership through revitalizing abandoned and dilapidated properties, but has since grown to include revitalized and new construction initiatives in High Point and Greensboro.

With Bishop Young at the helm of the destined-to-succeed venture, Unity Builders, Inc. (UBI) was officially formed in 1999 with revitalization projects well under way. In addition to providing affordable homeownership, UBI also began providing low-rent apartments for low-resource residents, as well as transitional housing with a structured support system for families and individuals in crisis situations. From conception every effort has been taken by UBI to acknowledge the needs of its constituents, most notably by mandating that at least one-third of the seven board members come directly from the lower income groups which UBI serves.

Initially, the organizations’ strategy was to renovate and revitalize blighted and deteriorated houses in low-resource neighborhoods within the Burlington/Alamance County community; which did in fact produce a successful community revitalization program. Through hard work and dedication the Burlington revitalization project transitioned 30 families from disenfranchisement to homeownership.

Nevertheless, success did not come without opposition.

Bishop Young states that there were challenges; being able to garner working capital as well as developing worthy partnerships were both among the many issues UBI faced. But the undeniable successes of the Burlington initiative spoke volumes. In fact, the initiative was so well received that the city of Burlington collaborated with UBI, and conveyed several scattered properties to the corporation. Financial backing soon followed through various resources including, Alamance County Government, First State Bank, Wachovia Bank, Mid Carolina Bank and several others. The puzzle pieces were finally falling into place.

Through a chance encounter another initiative was in the pipeline. Unbeknownst to Young, current vice president of New Bridge Bank, Douglas Paige, had met Bishop Young’s brother-in-law. He informed Paige about Bishop Young’s vision. Ironically, Paige was acquainted with Mike McNair, Director of Community Development for the city and was looking for a minority builder to build in High Point. Paige made the connection and another successful partnership was formed. Shortly thereafter, the South Side Revitalization Project spawned Vail Woods Estate in High Point, appropriately named by Vail Avenue residents.

Young admits the project was a group effort from the start.

He stated that the South Side Association was supportive as well as the surrounding neighborhood. The revitalization efforts seemed to restore lost hope in everyone from city councilman, Mike Pugh, who represents the South Side area, to senior residents. The city of High Point has been very supportive of Unity Builders and Bishop Young as well. In January, Young was recognized by the High Point Human Relations Commission with its Humanitarian Award, declaring him the “Humanitarian of the Year” for 2010.

continued on next page February/March 2010

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continued from page 21 Unity Builders remains committed to its community by providing employment opportunities to local subcontractors. The restoration efforts of UBI have in many ways restored hope into the lives of the citizens of the south side community. One resident, who is 96 years old, expressed her approval when she stated that she had waited to see when her declining neighborhood would become revitalized like the days of old. Through a partnership with the city of High Point and New Bridge Bank, the revitalization process has been a growing success.

The vision has continued and expanded. Phase one of the South Side Revitalization Project, which began with a $1.2 million investment for 11 homes from the city of High Point, and construction loans from New Bridge Bank, has been completed and was celebrated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on December 9, 2009. The completion of phase one is certainly not the completion of UBI. Bishop Young states that the future of UBI is bright. He looks forward to watching the vision mature and grow, but most importantly, UBI will continue to follow its proven path by branching out to serve other communities in need, and provide total revitalization to the South Side area including, job skills training to the residents, solicitation of local subcontractors, increase the tax base in High Point, and assist in the reduction of social services costs.

The vision has certainly not changed. The heart-felt desire to see people empowered is still the main focus. Bishop Young proudly admits that because of UBI’s commitment to their community, buyer education and financial literacy, many individuals who never thought they would own a home are now proud homeowners and many more are well on their way to homeownership. With over 45 years of combined experience, UBI will continue to lead the way in providing affordable housing through homeownership.

“In January, The city of High Point Human Relations Commission recognized Bishop Terry L. Young with its Humanitarian Award, declaring him Humanitarian of the Year for 2010”

UNITY BUILDERS INC celebrates their 10th anniversary in 2010 HUAMI MAGAZINE

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Pictured with Bishop Terry L. Young is his wife Geneva. He is also a member of the Guilford NonProfit Consortuim

February/March 2010

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February/March 2010

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Charlotte, North Carolina

Bite Your Tongue New Orleans Style Restaurant

Martine Johnson Brings Food & Family to Charlotte After Katrina

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By Terry L. Watson Photos by Brad Mckenzie

ate has a way of making things workout. This is true in the lives of Martine and Lucius Johnson. When Hurricane Katrina’s wrath destroyed New Orleans in 2005, they were one of many thousands who evacuated the area, all with hopes of returning once the storm passed. When it had finally subsided, the aftermath didn’t leave them much to come back to. Besides their home, they owned and operated a cajun restaurant, Bite Your Tongue, and they suddenly found themselves looking for a new place to make a living and call home.

Upon arriving in Charlotte with their two children, the Johnson’s who are originally from New Orleans, were adopted by Covenant Presbyterian Church. Besides being the first patrons of the restaurant in Charlotte CPC also assisted with preparing the site which allowed the Johnsons’ to focus more on the business. They set up shop in a 700 sq ft in the Randolph Medical Center off of Randolph Road. Their landlord helped get the word out by informing their friends about Bite Your Tongue. Without much of an advertising budget, they totally relied on “word of mouth” to inform the citizens of Charlotte they had arrived. Martine says, “In New Orleans, everyone offers gumbo, red beans & rice and jambalaya. Here, it is such a novelty.

We have our own niche here in North Carolina and our guests really appreciate the food and us.”

Bite Your Tongue is a New Orleans authentic cuisine restaurant that specializes in Jambalaya, Gumbo, Red Beans & Rice, Shrimp & Grits and White Chocolate Bread Pudding. They also offer pork chops with sweet potato gravy, baked chicken, dirty rice, yams, mustard greens, collard & mustard green duo, corn & crab soup, ham, red bean & sweet potato soup, and stuffed shells (chicken, spinach & mozzarella).

A tasteful breakfast is also offered that includes grits, a sandwich with a hash brown on it and Community Coffee with chicory (a New Orleans favorite). Martine says, “any food item we prepare will have that Nawlin’s flare.”

“My husband and I met at Copeland’s restaurant in New Orleans.

In addition to my job as a courier with the US Postal Service, I worked as a waitress there and he worked in the kitchen. I soon discovered how much I enjoyed cooking when we moved into our first apartment,” she says. This love was taken to new heights when they eventually opened Bite Your Tongue in New Orleans in 2002. They began with four menu items and offered gumbo, creamy chicken pasta, spinach & artichoke dip and fruit pizza. Eventually, they began getting requests for lunch items and slowly expanded the menu. “We have always believed in starting slow and not having a huge menu.

The concept has worked for us quite well,” says Martine.

Currently, Bite Your Tongue is opened from 8am-5pm, Monday through Friday. They hope to eventually open on weekends and expend their flourishing catering business which generates approximately 30% of their revenue. Martine is trying to put the finishing touches on a cookbook she’s writing and hopes to one day be featured on The Food Network. To sell their cookbooks on a national level is a long term goal but for now Martine says, “I just LOVE to cook!”

For more information about Bite Your Tongue Restaurant, please visit them online at www. charlottecajunrestaurant.com or at 1928 Randolph Road, Charlotte, NC or call (704) 332-5730 HUAMI MAGAZINE

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February/March 2010

Greensboro, North Carolina

Palmica & Latesha

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February/March 2010

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