Huami nov 2013

huami The Stories of Three Successful Black Business Owners

November/December 2013 Volume 3 Issue 5 FREE

THE COVERING PASTOR JEFF

SMITH

J-SHAMMAH BOUTIQUE

&MORE

Portia MOTHER.ACTIVIST.FRIEND

She Wears Many Hats, and Tells Her Story, Finally

November/December 2013

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FOR A BETTER “To Reconcile the World to God Through Jesus Christ”

November/December 2013

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These Three Words A Letter from the Editor

There are something’s in life that you can’t replace. This includes a mother, father, sister, brother and even a child.

Last month my family and I celebrated the homegoing for my sister. It was a bitter sweet moment for me because I didn’t want her to leave but knew that where she is now, is a whole lot better than where I am. She doesn’t have to suffer the pains of her illness anymore, but instead is with God. Usually the ones that we find it the hardest to say “I love you” to are the ones who need to hear it the most. I wish that I could have more time with my sister to tell her once again who much I love her. Love is a powerful thing. Love can cover a multitude of sins. Love can heal our pains, and it can help save someone’s life. If we never tell each other or express our love to one another, then what purpose does it serve.

I can’t change you and, neither can you change me.

Loving you allows me to accept you for who you are. Loving you requires me to look past our differences and work towards solutions to make our relationships stronger and lasting. Not a single day will ever pass without me loving any of my siblings, my friends and those who help make my life what it is.

I encourage everyone to not wait until you lose a love one to show them how much they mean to you. Don’t wait until they’re sick and the outlook is unbearable or terminal. Let’s love each other through our challenges and differences.

Your sickness is my sickness because I love you. Your addictions and vises are mine also because I love you. Our healing starts with love. Our dreams are fulfilled with love.

I can never say anything more meaningful to you than these three words. I love you.

Terry L. Watson Editor/Founder 4

HuamiMagazine.com

November/December 2013

www.huamimagazine.com Editor In Chief

Terry L. Watson Writers

Tonya Dixon Terry L. Watson Angel Barrino Kalyn Hoyle Photographers

Howard Gaither Dr. Tiffany Fuller Whoshotya Photography Charles Media Photography Still Shots Photography 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.

On The Cover Photo by Still Shots Photography

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CONTENTS

Ishmael Montaque

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November/December 2013

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Sorena Hayes

Pastor Jeff Smith

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

A New Choice For Sheriff Vote For Danny Rogers

Portia Shipman wants to tell her story

J-Shammah Boutique

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Annual Food Drive 6 Peace Haven Living Healthy 31 Learn More about Obamacare First Name in Second Chances 38 Eckerd Youth Alternatives Community Opportunity in North Carolina 18 Job Corps Educational Feature 36 Christian Shipman Cutest Baby Contest 42 Diesel Bryant NeSmith

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Successful Black Business

November/December 2013

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Dr. Felicia W. Redmon

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Community Connection

GREENSBORO

By Terry L. Watson Photo by Mykel Media Company

Peace Haven

Giving Back This Holiday Season Our food drive will be facilitated by a “Donation Bus” which we plan to launch at an event downtown on November 5th 2013.

The bus will be stationed at strategic locations downtown, Thursdays thru Sundays and will serve to remind the community of the presence of needy families in our midst as we celebrate this festive season.

Peace Haven is a company that prides itself in serving our community. To that end we have partnered with Greensboro Urban Ministries to host our first Annual Fundraiser this festive season. The objective of the fundraiser is to collect food donations to help needy families within Greensboro City Limits. Our plan is to adopt such needy families and feed them during the holiday season.

During the week we will relocate the bus to different locations, specifically food retail shops and restaurants in bid to continue the publicity and to receive food donations. Merchants signed up to this include Food Lion, Target, Golden Corral, Applebee’s, Long Horn Steak House to name a few. Our team of volunteers will be managing the food collection process at these sites with the goal of filling the bus.

As mentioned, we plan to have the fund raising launch on November 5, 2013. T he launch will be held on the curbside of

NC Mentor is seeking individuals throughout the Triad to become Licensed Foster Parents. We provide free skill development, monthly payments for your services as an independent contractor, and 24 hr. on-call support.

The licensing class is free and held at convenient times and locations in Greensboro and Winston-Salem. Requirements Include Reliable Transportation, A Spare Bedroom, HS Diploma or GED, Satisfactory Background Check, and a Commitment to Helping a Child.

a strategic location downtown. To this end, Churchill’s on Elm St has generously offered their place for this event. The “Donation Bus” will be on location on that day and we hope to have the Mayor as well as a representative from Greensboro Urban Ministries attend the launch.

The drive is expected to continue for a month and will culminate in an event on December 5, 2013 at Churchill’s again. The theme of this event will be “Adopt A Needy Family” and some of the highlights planned for this evening will be the auctioning off of dates with some of Greensboro’s finest bachelors and bachelorettes. The date packages to be offered for auction together with the bachelors and bachelorettes will be sponsored by local businesses including Applebee’s, Ruby Tuesday, Stameys, Long Horn Steak House, Outback Steak House, Mamas, Regal Cinema Theater, etc. We are also working on other fun fundraising activities for that evening. h

Simply Dazzled Accesories Boutique Featuring Exquisite Jewelry Managed by Kayla Slade

104 N. Booker Street - Greensboro, NC 27401 (336)772-1262 prettynpinkjewels@gmail.com

For more info please call (336) 856-1140x30 www.makeadifferenceathome.com

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Community Connection

GREENSBORO

By Terry L. Watson Photo by Danny Rogers

Danny Rogers for Sheriff A New Choice for Guilford County

When elected as Sheriff of Guilford County our team will continue to improve the quality of life in our county. As Sheriff I believe preventing crime would be more effective than just putting criminals behind bars once the crime is committed. Therefore, as Sheriff of Guilford County I will focus on preventing crime by being proactive in our communities. I will work with

community programs like drug prevention and community watch that will help reduce crime and taxpayer dollars. I believe that being proactive will help prevent crime and also help enforce the law while protecting each individual’s freedoms guaranteed by the United States Constitution.

Organizations: Friends of John Coltrain Board Member (Executive Board Member) North State Law Enforcement Furniture City Chapter (Former Member) BNI (Business Networking International (Former Member)

I’m very passionate about serving all people throughout our entire community. When elected as the Sheriff of Guilford County I will work to build law enforcement and community relationships that will lead to safer and stronger environment for all citizens of Guilford County

Community Involvement: Member of Love and Faith Christian Fellowship HIV Ministry Transportation Ministry Carl Chavis YMCA Board of Directors Guilford County Senior Democratic Party Guilford County Democratic Party African American Caucus Chair-High Point Vice Chair Sherri Denese Jackson Foundation against Domestic Violence Boy Scouts Troop Leader Ragsdale YMCA / Jamestown Youth Basketball Coach Parents Involved in Education / North Carolina A&T State University

Experience: Randolph County Juvenile Daily Reporting Center Asheboro, NC Criminal Justice Intern High Point Police Department: High Point, NC Patrol Officer Guilford County: Greensboro, NC Detention Officer, Patrol Officer Deputy II

“Sunday Dinner is more than a meal, it’s our Ministry”

Open Sundays 12pm - 6pm

The Sweet Shop Homemade Pound Cakes by Margaret Elaine Designs, LLC.

2006 W Vandalia Rd, Greensboro, NC 27407 www.SundaysDinner.webs.com (336)855-0204

September/October 2013

631 S. Elm Street Suite A Greensboro, NC 27401 (336)790-0242

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Portia Shipman

A Story To Tell

By Tonya Dixon Photos by Still Shots Photography

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ife doesn’t always pan out the way expected. Often what appears to be a good idea one minute turns out to be a catastrophe the next. Portia Shipman knows all too well the pain of enduring the many twists and turns life can bring. Her life has taken so many different turns even she finds it difficult to keep track. She has seen good and bad, experienced hurt and disappointment, health and sickness, and betrayal beyond her imagination, but the massive amount of despair she has endured barely compares to the happiness, joy and redemption she now enjoys.

You have to take the good with the bad, she says. It’s all a part of life. Through it all one thing remains consistent. She is still standing. Shipman was born in Greensboro, but raised in Atlantic City, New Jersey. She isn’t ashamed to admit that her family basically lived in and out of various housing projects throughout her childhood. She uses it as a tool to teach other people they can overcome despite their circumstances. After several years she and her family packed up and returned to the gate city. She’s a hometown girl. She knows the area well and is well-known throughout the area. Often times the reputation of her locally-famous last name precedes her.

Second to the oldest of six siblings in a very tight knit family, Shipman took it upon herself to help out with her other brothers and sister. Her mother did her best to provide a stable home life while the family contended with the uncertainty of their father, who Shipman says was a working alcoholic at the time. Even as she got older she made sure her sister and brothers had what they needed for school or anything else. Although she and her mother often endured a strained relationship, Shipman did her best to lessen the burden on her mother’s shoulders. She was always the type to care for Continued on next page

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others even before she cared for herself. It’s a characteristic she carried into adulthood, but would eventually come to realize if she didn’t spend some of her energy on improving her own life, she would risk losing her own life.

Shipman endured her own tribulation very early in life. At the tender age of 17 she got married. It wasn’t a marriage she was particularly interested in, but she conceded because it made sense to everyone else. The groom-to be had basic education, a car, a place to live, a job and something resembling stability. He even professed his love for Shipman. In theory, it was a perfect situation. She was told she should be grateful because it was a situation others only dreamed about. What more could she want? What did love have to do with it anyway? It was a perfect set-up. Set-up is exactly what Shipman discovered it to be. It was all a façade. He didn’t love her and it wasn’t a perfect story. It was the beginning of a new kind of life for Shipman. It was also the beginning of her downward spiral into self-hatred and low self-esteem.

“It was doomed from the beginning,” she says. “He got in a fight the day of the wedding. He left me the night of the wedding over his sister’s house and didn’t return for me until later the next day. He took control of my life. I couldn’t go anywhere. I couldn’t dress up. I only wore the clothes he gave me, which were always big and baggy. I did everything he told me to do. I couldn’t stand to look myself in the mirror. He would make me look in the mirror and tell myself I was ugly so I began to think I was ugly. He would do things just to be mean.”

Shipman always had reservations about the marriage, but she was encouraged by her mother to tough it out. Things never improved. The verbal and emotional abuse continued, often accompanied by physical abuse. It would be years later before she would recognize everything she went through as domestic violence. By the time the marriage was over, Shipman was left with very little, including an even smaller amount of positive self-esteem. She never believed for a second that she was pretty or smart enough to deserve better, demand better or even realize that better was available. From her vantage point the only good that came from the marriage were her two sons.

Despite a series of setbacks, Shipman was never been without a will to survive. Her resolve to trudge through and move forward was always greater than all the forces against her. After her first marriage, it was all Shipman could do to maintain stability for herself and her young boys. Her self-loathing attitude continued until she came in contact with the late Mr. Kelly Bennett, a well-known businessman in Greensboro. He was virtually the catalyst that prompted Shipman to get her education, and better herself. He not only talked to her about it, but he invested in her by providing a job and educational assistance.

It was from Bennett that Shipman and her mother inherited a new, barely-off-the-ground, home healthcare business. It was just what she had been looking for. It was the perfect opportunity for her to be able to adequately provide for her children. Sure there were learning and growing pains, but they were to be expected. Shipman had done her homework.

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She studied all about the business and knew what was required. In 1989, she and her mother started Shipman Family Home Care in the kitchen of her mother’s apartment. She was determined to make the business work. Early mornings and time away from her children were sacrificed. By now her family of three had expanded to a family of five-Reginald III, Johncie and twins Terri and Torri. She had been married three times. Each marriage, although all not as traumatic as the first, always ended with the same refrain. Girl meets boy. Girl falls in love with boy. Girl marries boy. Girl discovers boy has serious issues and in one case a penchant for robbing banks. It was all too familiar; each of her husbands had a drug dependency problem, but Shipman was determined to at least get it right with her livelihood. Her children depended upon it.

Tensions were always high between Shipman and her mother, but Portia hoped the business would provide a foundation for them to build a better relationship. After all, they would be partners. The reality is that the two women didn’t view the venture the same. The family business grew; eventually bringing in hundreds of thousands, if not millions of dollars.

Shipman ran the helm with operations and her mother managed the finances. She says she witnessed the lifestyle of other family members gradually improving, yet hers remained the same. She would soon discover that she had absolutely no future in a business she helped build and grow and considered herself part owner.

Pictured with Portia is her 3 children and 2 grandchildren.

From left to right: Jamyah, Reggie, Lyric, Terri and Torri.

Shipman’s revelation was devastating to say the least. Perhaps she was misunderstood. Perhaps they didn’t quite remember exactly who helped start the enterprise. Perhaps her day would come. Perhaps she just needed to be a little more patient. After 17 years of ups and down, ins and outs, periods of strife and confusion, Portia was convinced she no longer belonged in the family business. It was a hard pill to swallow, but in 2007 she left and didn’t look back. She admits she felt very lonely and isolated during that time in her life, but she was encouraged by friends that stood by her and supported her just like family. Shipman continued to maintain a close relationship with her father, Elbert Lee Shipman, Sr. His complete recovery took time, but like family, they were always there for each other.

Following the day she resigned many stumbling blocks fell along her path, but Shipman not only survived; she thrived.

Always resourceful and tenacious, she found work throughout the community. The two-time NAACP Mother of the Year award winner did everything from news reporter to consultant. She managed a teen youth club and even ran a rooming house. Tragedy struck the Greensboro area in 2006 when Sherri Denese Jackson went missing for 19 months. Shipman rose to the occasion and became the family’s official spokesperson. She fought hard on behalf of Jackson and her family making sure her violent death would never be forgotten. In 2008, Shipman and her twin daughters founded the Sherri Denese Jackson Foundation, for the Prevention of Domestic Violence (SDJF) Inc. The foundation is federally recognized with 501(c) (3) status (which is no small feat). It wasn’t until Shipman really poured herself into the foundation that she realized she too had been a victim of domestic violence. SDJF focuses on raising domestic violence awareness, empowering women and advocating for and remembering victims. “Now when I see women who don’t love themselves I reach out to them

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and let them know how beautiful they are inside and out,” says Shipman. “I instill that into women during SDJF women’s empowerment groups and to any woman or man I meet. We may have blemishes and stuff that we don’t like about ourselves but those things are just blemishes. I have prevailed over all the situations I’ve had in my life. I have overcome them. I’m better for it.”

Prevailing. Overcoming. Surviving. Thriving. Each word adequately describes Portia Shipman. In addition to those terms she can add restored. All the love and hard work she put into her family’s business wasn’t in vain. It was training ground.

She says Shipman Family Home Care will always be part of her history, but now she is more focused on her future. And her future is Reliable Home Care Services. In January 2012, she opened her own homecare agency and to date the business is skyrocketing. In September 2013 she became the first healthcare union on the southeast portion of the United States. She has over 50 well-qualified employees, providing a range of services. It’s not the original family business, but it’s her family business none the same. All of her children are integrally involved. She even has plans to eventually teach her grandchildrenJamyah, Lil Reggie, Madison and Lyric-the business. As Shipman puts it, “they are my legacy and I want them to have it.”

She wouldn’t have it any other way. “I tell my story because there are a lot of people out there who assume they know the truth about people; about me, but they don’t know the real truth.” Portia Shipman simply wants her truth told. h

The faces of Reliable Home Care Services are Reginald III (Human Resources Coordinator), Portia (Owner/Agency Director), and Terri (Clients Services/Office Manager).

“I tell my story because there are a lot of people out there who assume they know the truth about people; about me, but they don’t know the real truth.”

Portia LaJoy Shipman, aka “Ms. Queen” Reliable Home Care Services - Office: (336) 510-9393 Fax: (336) 510-1499 - Email: ReliableNC@yahoo.com - Website: ReliableHomeCareServices.com Sherri Denese Jackson Foundation for the Prevention of Domestic Violence, Inc. (SDJF) Office: (336) 510-9292 Email: SDJFNC@gmail.com - Website: SDJFNC.org 2200 East Market Street Ste. B Greensboro, NC 27401-6444

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Prophetess

Dr. Felicia W. Redmon The Headquarters of A Church Without Walls

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By Tonya Dixon Photos by Whitney Carter of HQACWW

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eople spend their entire lives trying to discover their purpose.

Some are fortunate enough to discover it, while many others die with their purpose unfulfilled. Prophetess Dr. Felicia Williams Redmon is the natural daughter to Horace and Joann Williams, wife to Overseer Eddie Redmon and natural mother to Joanna (affectionately known as Jodi) her 24 year old daughter with down syndrome. Prophetess wears many hats from Prophet, to Pastor, to teacher, to counselor, to spiritual Midwife and spiritual Mother, but she knows exactly who she is and what her purpose is on earth.

Redmon knows God has called her to be a prophetic mouthpiece.

She likens it to being a change agent. In other words, the catalyst to help people get to where they are supposed to be. Her prophetic gift is contingent upon her ability to hear the voice of the Lord audibly and respond gracefully and accordingly. Redmon makes it clear that she, like many other true prophets of God, often hear from the Lord, but their response is not always to shout it to the hills, or sit in condemnation and judgment, rather to respond in sincere prayer and intercession and show people the true purpose of the office of a prophet. She admits, the spiritual office she has been given is often surrounded in mystique and even more often met with skepticism. However, there is no spookiness or weirdness about Redmon. Everything she does within her ministry is directly from God and delivered in godly order.

“I have to tell people that prophecy is not Astrology. Our primary gift is not to read people but to be the mouthpiece of God for His people. It is not witchcraft,” she says. “There is a noticeable shift in people when they discover the office that I hold. It’s because they have been around so many fake [self-serving] prophets. I put them at ease. I know God has called me to restore the reputation of the church. The church has been bashed for so long. It’s important that we let people see that we are who He says we are.

We change people by our words matching up with our actions.”

Redmon is the founder and senior pastor of The Headquarters of A Church Without Walls, which is a International ministry not based on numbers but because of what they do. They are located in Greensboro N.C. In 2007, she and her husband, Overseer Eddie Redmon and six other individuals planted the church, which has since grown and come to be known as “The Campus.” Visitors can witness for themselves that Redmon practices what she preaches. Prophetess Redmon accepted her call into ministry, but pastoring was never really on her radar. She earned a teaching degree from Winston Salem State University, a masters degree from North Carolina A&T State University and a Masters of Divinity degree from Hood Theological Seminary. So a far as she was concerned, her life would consist of being an educator, counselor and a mouthpiece for the Lord. For nearly 14 years that is exactly what she did. She worked in the school system and simultaneously preached the word of God. Redmon faithfully served in her local church, Mount Pleasant Christian Church Disciples of Christ (MPCC) and sung in the Sunshine Choir. As time passed she grew in ministry, eventually going through a season as Assistant Minister of MPCC. The Lord was grooming her for much more. Her ministry schedule overlapped her counseling position in the Greensboro Public Schools. After establishing The Headquarters of A Church Without Walls (HQACWW), God gave Redmon the choice of remaining in her counseling position. With full support from her husband, she opted to “get out of the boat.”

“I know God has called me to restore the reputation of the church.

It’s important that we let people see that we are who He says we are.”

Prophetess Dr. Felicia W. Redmon

Redmon was no longer teaching in the schools, but her life and lifestyle remained her unofficial lesson plan. Ministry is constantly teaching and learning. She believes everyone is charged to walk out their calling.

Redmon says ministry in any facet is not always easy, but being confident in the God that lives within you and learning how to love people is important.

“When you have people who are not sure of whom they are themselves they will try to dissuade or discredit who you know you are,” she says.

“Most people will have to see it and experience it, to believe it.”

Despite the detractors, Redmon says the key is learning how to love people. Although she didn’t immediately practice it, she learned to love people out of her spirit rather than her heart. The heart is subject to

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emotions and feelings, but the spiritual man loves, cares, and supports even in the midst of persecution. It’s these foundational principles that Prophetess Redmon teaches on any given Sunday, Thursday or virtually any other day of the week at HQACWW. The ministry is solely based upon the Word of God. Redmon says everything they do is backed up through scriptures. Even though the ministry is growing by leaps and bounds (even preparing to move to a larger facility), Redmon says she initially asked God why He wanted her to establish a church. She was certain of the work she was already doing and was obedient to the best of her knowledge.

The answer she received from God was startling to say the least. “God told me to call it The Headquarters of A Church Without Walls because He said He was going to be the only spotlight,” she says matter-of-factly.

She was given the vision for the entire ministry, including the strategic establishment of four other A Church Without Walls ministries-one of which has already been planted in Danville, Virginia. “God said we would be a campus and we would train and equip others.” That is exactly what they have been doing. In fact, God has blessed the ministry so much that during the first quarter of 2014 A Church Without Walls will be moving into their very own, custom designed worship facility.

Overseer Eddie Redmon

Service Times CIT (Christians in Training or Sunday School) Sunday 9:30 am Sunday Service – 10:30 am Bible Study – Thursday 7:30 pm Prophetess Redmon has written several books.

Functioning in a Dysfunctional World Don’t Quit Just Shift Preparing for the Prophetic Ministry Self Care in the form of Sabbath

In the six years that the church, or community as Redmon refers to it, has been established, virtually every aspect of the vision has been implemented. Under Prophetess Redmon’s humble leadership (who by-the-way has a doctorate of ministry from Wesley Theological Seminary in Washington, D.C.), The Headquarters of A Church Without Walls has opened the New Testament School of Theology. There are nine different tracks for students. Initially, Redmon and her Admistrative Assistant of Operations designed each track’s program by the leading of the Holy Spirit. Today it’s a different story. She explains that God will make provision for everything we need. “Every piece of who I am God brought in to this community and I’ve been able to release it. From the educator to the counselor to the prayer warrior to the psalmist, etc.” Other staff pastors focus on various aspects of the ministry according to their individual gifts and callings. There is a pastor of education, youth pastor, care pastor and the list continues.

The ministry attempts to not only perfect what it does in house, but to perfect and impact its local community through the missions and evangelistic ministries. The concept is that a ministry should not only be accountable to God, but a ministry in excellence should be compelled to be accountable to the community it serves. Pastor of Education, Tracy Lindsey says she believes the lack of accountability and failure to command and expect excellence is often the reason why many people and churches fail to adequately meet the needs of the people they have been called to serve. HQACWW makes it a priority to positively affect its community. On any given day, the church utilizes its resources to help individuals with housing, counseling, food, clothing, employment, healthcare and much more – all from a budget built solely from tithes and offering. In addition, Prophetess Redmon understands the importance of reaching out to other ministries. She believes whatever gifts and talents are within HQACWW is available for the edification of other churches as well. “You are not just gifted for A Church Without Walls, she says,” she says. “You are gifted for the whole body of Christ and for the world.” h Prophetess Redmon insists whichever way God directs her or the church the ministry will stand firmly upon five pillars: · To move from church focused to Christ focused · To move from settled church to church as a movement · To move from running congregations to building communities · To move from isolation to interdependence · To move from using faith as security to faith as a risk

The Headquarters of A Church Without Walls 4004 Spring Garden Street Greensboro, NC 27402 info@acwwofgreensboronc.org Tel 336-854-5955 Fax 336-854-5945 www.acwwofgreensboronc.org

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“I serve as the full-time Church Administrator for The Headquarters of A Church Without Walls and Adjutant for Prophetess Dr. Felicia W. Redmon and I’m a member of the Board of Directors that governs the ministry. As the administrator I am responsible for managing the business and financial affairs of the church and working with the disciples and staff to achieve our mission objectives. I extend the ministry of our church to our leaders, our disciples, and the surrounding community. As the Adjutant my ultimate goal is to assist Prophetess to do all that God has called her to. I travel with her to ministry engagements all over the world. I ensure that if it is a workshop or training that all of her materials have been prepared. I orchestrate her calendar as she serves the body of Christ and those that seek her services through her private practice. Overall, I promote and support the vision and mission of The Headquarters of A Church Without Walls and our Sr. Pastor. I count it all joy to have the honor to serve the woman of God and God’s people. To be a part of a community that is “going beyond the boundaries of tradition” and that is constantly evolving is truly a blessing.

Adjutant Sabrina Fuller

Here at the HQ, the spotlight is always on Jesus Christ. The Spirit of The Lord moves freely and the atmosphere is authentic, allowing unique praise and worship encounters. People literally leave differently from when they entered and have access to tools to help them maintain their transformation allowing “the campus” to truly be the safe haven and hospital that God intended for His church. I am sharing what I have witnessed and also what I have experienced. I have moved from brokenness, to wholeness, and been transformed to who God has called me to be because I was willing to allow my pastor to pull out what God placed in me. The HQ is a phenomenal ministry designed for those seeking kingdom minded leadership from a dynamic Sr. Pastor such as ours who is focused on training and equipping those hungry to fulfill God’s kingdom agenda as she has been mandated to do.

Min. Bianca Morris - Board Member & Care Counselor

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Job Corps Makes the Difference

By Dorothy Sidberry Photo by Dorothy Sidberry

Shanequa Chesson (a graduate from Harnett Central High School) was looking for another avenue outside of college to achieve her career and personal goals. She learned about Job Corps from her mother who conducted research online.

Chesson’s Job Corps experience was worthwhile in giving her a chance to learn more about herself and what she could accomplish with determination, motivation and support. According to Chesson, “Job Corps teaches you a lot.” She goes on to say, “the Job Corps staff is caring and give constant encouragement; really nice.” The hands-on training component in Job Corps is what Chesson felt was the best way for her to learn a skill.

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Almost fifty years ago, Job Corps became the premier career training program for young adults who might not have had an opportunity to get a college education or pursue a corporate career. Today, this program is the nation’s largest comprehensive education and career development training program that has impacted millions of lives. Job Corps serves as the catalyst for young adults to channel their potential and explore endless possibilities that lead to rewarding careers. Job Corps still offers this one of a kind program at NO COST to eligible and suitable candidates.

As we move forward in building lives, one success at a time; we have IMMEDIATE OPENINGS. We enroll applicants year round. We are actively recruiting young adults ages 16 through 24 at many of our Job Corps centers for Health Occupations (CNA, Medical Office Support), Automobile Technician, Brick and Cement Masonry, Carpentry, Facilities Maintenance, Painting, Welding, Forestry Conservation and Fire Fighting, Office Administration and Culinary Arts. In North Carolina, there are four training centers available.

The average length of stay is anywhere from eight months to two years of education and training. Student employees engage in a personal career development plan that allows each student to work at their own pace. This process challenges students to develop confidence, concrete skill sets and employability skills that translate into employment, higher education or military. While enrolled, students are provided with a bi-weekly allowance, room and board, two paid vacations home, free basic health care, recreational activities, help with employment opportunities and a bonus allowance upon entering the workforce.

Job Corps provides the resources you need as a potential student employee at one of our local and regional centers. Resources for employers consist of complete access to a pool of quality talent through our career transition services. Whatever the need, Job Corps is designed to make a difference.

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Chesson graduated from Job Corps with industry recognized certifications in culinary arts from Kittrell Job Corps Center and Woodland Job Corps Center for advanced certifications. She encourages other youth like herself; “Take full advantage of what Job Corps has to give.” As she prepares to become independent and travel the charted path of success, her plans are to enroll into college for Business Management and ultimately start her own Gift and Pastry shop.

Recently, Chesson was given the opportunity to fulfill her goal of becoming an independent caterer and gift and pastry entrepreneur. She has a business slogan: “Turning your ORDINARY treats into something EXTRAORDINARY.” Shanequa is destined to succeed and we are proud of her accomplishments in and beyond Job Corps. h

Job Corps teaches you a lot.” The staff is caring and give constant encouragement; they are really nice.”

Shanequa Chesson Main Project Office (919)954-0691 ~ Asheville (828)497-8062 Charlotte (704)344-0240 ~ Durham (919)560-6880 Fayetteville (910)864-4412 ~ Goldsboro (919)731-7950 Greensboro (336)292-5454 ~ Raleigh (919)250-1161 Wake Forest (919)866-2350

Want To Advertise? Call (336)340-7844

T R A IN

IMMEdIAtE opENINGS

Job Corps is enrolling!

LIVE

• Career Training and Education • Residential and Nonresidential Opportunities • 125 Centers Nationwide and in Puerto Rico • Free to Eligible Low-Income Young People Ages 16 Through 24

L E ARN CON NECT

Apply todAy!

(800) 733-JoBS [5627]

www.recruiting.jobcorps.gov www.facebook.com/doljobcorps Administered by the U.S. Department of Labor, Job Corps is the nation’s largest career technical training and education program for low-income young people ages 16 through 24. Job Corps is a U.S. Department of Labor Equal Opportunity Employer Program. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities. TDD/TTY telephone number is (877) 889-5627.

The Power of Three The Stories of Successful Black Business Owners

By Tonya Dixon

E

ntrepreneurship is a daunting task; but it is not insurmountable. Opportunities are endless for anyone bold and fearless enough to believe in themselves. Huami Magazine speaks with three African American businessmen to discover the secrets to their success and their stories of triumph. Here are their stories.

Several years ago Richard Lide was primed to enter the NFL. The Raeford North Carolina native graduated from North Carolina A&T State University ready for an exciting future. He had it all planned. He would retire from the game he loved so much. Unfortunately, things didn’t proceed quite the way he thought they would and his football career didn’t materialize. He was disappointed, but consoled himself knowing that he would be able to coach. At least he would still be connected to the sport. Yet again, he discovered coaching was not the plan God had for his life; instead he found himself working at a local staffing agency.

Throughout college Lide worked as an on-site recruiter for a national staffing firm. It was at the agency that he developed a bug for the staffing industry. “I was always intrigued about this industry. I liked the fact that I would be helping people get jobs so they could care for their families without government assistance. I liked helping people get on their feet or even get better jobs.” In 2002, Lide took the next logical step and partnered with two other colleagues to establish a staffing agency. However, the venture didn’t work out and the group disbanded in 2006. The amicable split afforded him the opportunity to start his own agency completely by himself. Later in the same year Lide launched his brain child, Patriot Staffing Employment Agency. The business took off and he hasn’t looked back.

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In 2012, Patriot Staffing was recognized as number three in the Triad’s Fast 50. The Triad Fast 50 showcases the 50 fastest growing companies in the Triad. The company was also recognized as the sixth largest minority-owned business in the Triad. The first year of business, the agency made over $1.2 Million dollars. It’s no wonder Patriot Staffing is highly touted by business clients throughout the community. The company provides staffing solutions for many of the area’s largest employers and has other clients as far away as Texas. Lide says staying in tune with the latest in technology is how he has grown his business. “Technology is a big part of staffing. People apply online and even interview online through Skype. As technology grows staffing is moving to a place of virtual offices,” Lide says.

Whatever the trend, it is certain Patriot Staffing will advance and expand as well.

In addition to his flagship agency, Lide has already planted other fully functional branches in Asheboro, Charlotte, Hickory, Durham and Roanoke Virginia. He has a great deal on his plate, but his wheels are always turning. He’s always looking for areas to further expand. Days are spent talking to clients, prospective clients and staff, writing bids and overseeing the company’s finances. He is intentionally hands on and intricately involved.

“I was always intrigued about this industry. I liked the fact that I would be helping people get jobs so they could care for their families without government assistance. I liked helping people get on their feet or even get better jobs.”

Richard Lide The road has not always been easy for Lide though. He admits he erred along the way. “When I first started I made my share of blunders and mistakes. I had to get credit cards and loans. There was a lot of trial and error, but I did whatever it took,” he says.

“I didn’t have many business role models growing up so I prayed to God for guidance and direction. I’m definitely an advocate of prayer.”

Lide says being prepared is vital to success as well. It’s all about gaining experience, at least five years he says, understanding industry procedures, terminology and having a well-developed plan. Not only does Patriot Staffing provide employment solutions, but Lide believes he and the business should be examples and give back to the community as well. He has a passion and desire to work with youth and teach them the necessity of professionalism.

Richard Lide

President & CEO Patriot Staffing Employment Agency 1429 Westover Terrace Greensboro, NC 27405 (336) 272-6800 www.patriotstaffing.com

It has been 10 years since Lide established his first business; moreover, it is increasingly apparent he is on track for many more years to come.

Continued on next page

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All it took was a few weeks working an internship and Greensboro native, Rudolph Artist knew exactly what he wanted to do for the rest of his life. Rudolph “Rudy” Artist is the founder and owner of the highly popular, Influance Hair Care Product line.

In 1991, Artist was an industrial engineer student at North Carolina A&T State University, but following a life-changing internship with Dudley Hair Products, he went back to school, and changed to a double major in business management and marketing. He was preparing himself for a lifelong career in the hair care industry.

Artist graduated college and went back to work with the same company for three years. Following a nine-year stint in Hampton Virginia, he returned to the Triad area and started Influance Hair Care.

“People don’t understand the planning and process.

They just see the final product.”

Rudy Artis

Rudy Artis

Influance Hair Care Products Founder/CEO 1-866-455-8989 www.influancehaircare.com

Artist spent the better part of 3 ½ years planning and researching.

The decisions that had to be made ran the gamut. It would take significant time, thought, dedication and strategy to bring his dream to fruition. “People don’t understand the planning and process. They just see the final product,” Artist says. “You have to decide things like what products you want to come out with, how you will develop them, how you will market, determine the size of products, budget, access risks and determine the amount of time you are willing to invest.”

Artist not only assumed the general risks associated with being a business owner, but he also risked his financial security. He took out a second mortgage on his home, depleted his 401(k) as well as his personal savings. It was a risk he was willing to take. He was motivated by his daughter as well as the leadership platform owning his own hair care business would provide for him to empower other cosmetology professionals.

Ironically, Artist didn’t initially have the desire to develop his own product line, but the more he interacted within the field the more he realized some needs were not being met. He was certain he could provide a means to meet those unfulfilled needs. In addition to all the other requirements for business ownership, Artist had to contend with developing a product from scratch.

The chemistry involved in his business is vital. By very nature, if there is no product then there will not be a business. He says he invests in Influance constantly just to stay competitive.

Today Influance Hair Care Products are successfully distributed across the country; from the east coast to the west coast.

Nevertheless, Artist isn’t satisfied and content with where the business stands. He is looking to do more, provide better products, empower and educate more professionals and consumers as well as procure more corporate accounts. “The sky is the limit,” he says.

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John Hairston graduated from North Carolina A&T State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in industrial arts education. He secured a teaching and coaching position and commenced to living the life he thought he would live forever.

He got married to his sweetheart, Cathy, built a house, and had three kids. He even had a small construction business on the side that contributed extra money to the household income. His plan worked perfect…for about 10 years. Hairston needed something more for his family. He soon discovered the pathway to what he needed.

What was supposed to be an avenue for supplementary income quickly morphed into a career change. Hairston approached McDonalds franchise, enrolled in its owner training program and within approximately 1 ½ years he purchased his first McDonalds restaurant in downtown Atlanta Georgia on

“The first thing you have to do is believe. “I’m a strong believer. I never had a defeated attitude.”

John Hairston 209 Peachtree St. Hairston and his wife were all in. They were completely dedicated to making the venture work. The two successfully managed to reinvigorate the previously struggling restaurant and ultimately received an award for the most improved restaurant in the region.

After three years, Hairston and his family moved back to their native Charlotte North Carolina. He began purchasing more McDonalds restaurants and eventually building his own. To date, the Hairstons own 10 restaurants located in and around Charlotte.

John Hairston

Hairston never questioned whether he was capable of succeeding in the business. He only questioned how he should do it. He relied on what he already knew. “Honestly, it was all very simple. My job as a coach was to assemble teams, put people in positions where they could be successful and keep them motivated,” says Hairston. “As a coach I would develop a game plan, so I did the same thing and developed a game plan for my restaurants.” Hairston made sure to give everyonewhether cashiers, cooks or managers-targets and achievement goals. He also strategically sought out opportunities to generate more business. If conventions were in town, he knew it and he says he did everything to prepare.

John R. Hairston Enterprises Inc Owner/Operator 3070 Senna Drive Charlotte, NC 28227

Hairston admits he nor his wife had direct restaurant experience, but it was less about their lack of experience and more about their belief in God and themselves. “The first thing you have to do is believe,” he says. “I’m a strong believer. I never had a defeated attitude. I believe if I believe in something hard enough I can’t fail. Plus my family was depending on me.

Failure wasn’t an option.”

In the meantime, Hairston and his wife are fully invested in their current properties as well as the communities they are in.

From the Ronald McDonald House the Hairstons recently built to various civic and sports organizations, the Hairstons are investing in more than just brick and mortar they are investing in people. h

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Pastor Jeff Smith The Covering Church

By Tonya Dixon Photos by Howard Gaither

O

ne of Pastor Jeff Smith’s arms is basically covered in tattoos. Yes, he is a pastor and he has tattoos. Pastor Smith jokes that his right arm (without the tattoos) preaches to the business man and the left arm (with the tattoos) preaches to the outcast or the rejects of society. In all honesty he says the latter are the ones he really wants.

The ones that have done and been things that look nothing like church. It perfectly describes Smith’s personality and heart for all of God’s children. Ironically, his tattoos have often been the catalyst that opens doors and paves the way to share Christ. “I tell them I’m a pastor, they see my tattoos and it really opens the door like crazy,” Smith says. “All-ofa-sudden a wall goes down and people feel they can relate to me.”

Pastor Jeff, as he is lovingly called by basically anyone who meets him, because it is virtually impossible not to fall in love with him and his wife, Worship Leader Bekki Smith, are the dynamic leaders of The Covering Church-a non-denominational church in Greensboro. The Bible says in Psalm 91:4, “He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust…” The scripture was the inspiration the Smith’s received from God for the church’s name. Pastor Smith says he and his family were literally driving down the road and The Covering just came to them.

The church itself is located in Greensboro, but it’s more than just a meeting place. It’s a movement and what’s behind it is nothing but the Spirit of God. It’s a movement that dwells in the hearts among many. Everyone is catching hold. From school teachers to prostitutes. From successful business owners to school drop-outs and from doctors and lawyers to drug addicts. It’s freedom. More specifically it’s freedom in Jesus Christ. It’s what The Covering Church represents. As a matter of fact, it’s what The Covering Church was birthed from. It was birthed through a desire to be free from the world’s definition of church. It was born out of a struggle for spiritual emancipation. The product is a growing, strong and free group of people that worship and praise together, share together, give together and serve together.

Both Smiths are eager to weigh in on exactly what the church is all about. Bekki says, “We want the lesbians, the homosexuals, the drug addicts. We want the rejects because we are all rejects. We are messed up ourselves, but that’s who the Lord wants; the ones who nobody else wants. We want those. The Bible says if you get in God’s presence then He will change you. The people with all the piercings and tattoos that have been asked to leave churches, we receive them. The scripture says where men look on the outside; God says I’m going to look at the heart.”

“The beauty of the church is that we see the ones with the tattoos and piercings literally sitting beside businessmen and professionals holding hands, worshiping and weeping together,” says Pastor Jeff as he is overcome with emotion. “We dance, we shout, we worship and sometimes we are simply silent.

The one word people use to describe The Covering is freedom. I just want the ones no one else wants. We don’t want to just have church, but we want to BE the church. The Covering is for the people who show up. If you need a Word and the presence of God, we are here,” says Pastor Jeff. “We are a diverse congregation. This ministry does not look at race or gender or anything else. I preach reality to everyone. It’s not about religion but about relationship with Jesus Christ. When Jesus Christ comes back all the name tags will be taken off. It won’t say Baptist, Methodist or Pentecostal.”

The Covering is so free that at one point in its short history it wasn’t even bound by four walls-the actual building that is. Pastor Jeff emotionally recalls the day he and Bekki led the first “unofficial” service of The Covering. He says one of his elders called and said some sheep need their shepherd and need to be fed. We are coming to your house; more specifically to your driveway. After Smiths initial shock, he says he thought, okay, a few people may show up, we will have a small Bible study, and then go home.

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True to what his elder told him, at 6 am, Smith looked out his window and saw cars lining up. People brought speakers and stands and someone even made a homemade pulpit. His lawn and driveway immediately became the most beautiful makeshift sanctuary he had ever seen. It was decorated with people sitting in lawn chairs and blankets and standing anywhere they could find to simply hear the word of God. They were free and the absence of four walls meant nothing when the possibility of obtaining freedom was within reach. It wasn’t just within reach; it was captured.

Bekki led worship and Pastor Jeff taught the Word of God. That day 77 people, hungry for God, attended. To this day, nearly three years later, Pastor Jeff can barely contain his emotions. The gratitude he has for the faithfulness of God to turn their sorrow into joy is immeasurable. They both agree that day was the first day of their journey to restoration.

Since that day the church has grown exponentially. The first impromptu outdoor service was followed by another, then another and yet another. It was all completely orchestrated by God. There wasn’t one objection. Even the Smiths neighbors were okay with the setup. Bekki says they didn’t even have any real plans. They didn’t know what they were going to do or where they were going to go next. They just knew they were going to listen and follow God. “We began praying for ridiculous miracles. We were sick of the man-made stuff. We knew that only God could take us beyond. We didn’t want it to look like us or smell like us. We began praying and fasting and God just began to move,” Bekki says. God began to move on their behalf in more ways than one. After several weeks of outdoor services, God provided the means for The Covering Church to move into the Carousel Theater. Unorthodox and unheard of? By all means; yet the Smiths simply attributed it to the “unusual” favor of God. The church called the theater home for many weeks until it simply outgrew the facility. Amazed by the sheer blessings of God and the quick multiplicity of the ministry, the Smiths moved the church to an even larger meeting space at George Ks Event Center. Their stay was short lived because the church just kept growing. All along the way, the Smiths marveled at the faithfulness of God. He was enlarging their territory, opening doors, providing, sustaining and restoring what was lost. It wasn’t long before God completely blew their minds with blessings and favor that even the naysayers couldn’t explain. God divinely laid a path for The Covering to move into its own facility after only nine months. It was simply a miracle.

It’s important to note the character and background of Pastor Jeff and Bekki Smith.

They were both raised in Christian homes, were taught the Word of God and tried to live by the Word of God. Nevertheless, they admit they were full of religion, but not a lot of relationship with God. Their entire lives have always been consumed in some type of ministry function. Pastor Jeff is the son of a pastor from Florida and Bekki, from West Virginia, has toured the country as a national Christian recording artist. She has been featured on every stage imaginable, from The Gaither Hour, to TBN (Trinity Broadcasting Network) to numerous mega churches. Pastor Jeff was the senior pastor of one of the largest and most well-respected churches in Greensboro. He holds a doctorate and other degrees as well. However, God saw fit to take them through some dark days. It seemed they were left all alone. Friends turned their backs and they lost their livelihood (and everything else for that matter). Yet, despite it all they both remained humble and submitted to God and through all the pain, uncertainty and utter destitution God brought them back from the brink of collapse and completely resurrected everything they thought had died and led them into a land of abundance. God was teaching them to completely trust him and stand firm in their belief in the power of the Holy Spirit.

There’s no celebrity status to report about them. In fact, one would be hard pressed to get the Smiths to talk about themselves. They would much rather talk about God and the freedom He gives to those who truly allow Him into their hearts.

“We began praying for ridiculous miracles. We were sick of the manmade stuff. We knew that only God could take us beyond. We didn’t want it to look like us or smell like us.

We began praying and fasting and God just began to move.”

Bekki Smith

The humility and love the Smiths exude is directly reflected in The Covering Church.

The Church has become a beacon in its community. “We feed the hungry and homeless.

The community uses our facility whenever they need it,” says Pastor Jeff. The vision is for the church to be able to supply the needs of people. From a free barber shop and beauty salon to clothes and food pantries to open gyms, the church is dedicated to extending a loving hand to anyone and everyone. “We want to take God to the world; especially this generation.”

No matter what the method, the Smiths are adamant that the goal will always be to grow disciples. “Our wheels are always turning. We are still growing,” says Bekki. “But our main desire is to disciple people so they can walk in the power of the Holy Spirit and reach out to others.” h

The Covering Church 507 Balboa Street Greensboro, NC 27405 (336)285-0977

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Help Lady Shae’s Salon give back this h

Walk Welc Ins ome !

Now ting Accep New ts Clien

at

Lad

Bring your gifts to be given away to the salon.

These items will be distributed to a selected family in Decemb

www.ladyshaes.com 26

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holiday season ....

dy Shae’s

ber.

Hair Salon

1025 Homeland Avenue - Greensboro, NC 27405 November/December 2013

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336-333-3222 27

Ishmael Sadiq Montague

ISM BEATS

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By Terry L. Watson Photos by Whoshotya Photography

H

e has an ear for music and hopes to share his signature productions with the world one day.

Ishmael Sadiq Montaque is also know as ISM Beats. He describes himself as a go getter, entrepreneur, and being very social. It is also safe to say that he is a young music protege that is quietly making noise as a producer. “I like anything that sounds good. I listen to all genres of music to learn anything new.

All music is relevant and should be appreciated. My mission is to make music that people can feel,” he says.

At just 16 years old, he is an Honor Student at Enloe High School in Raleigh, N.C. He has been told that has skills when it comes to making tracks. He has produced music in several different genre’s from Pop, Hip-Hop, and R&B. Montaque has also produced House and Reggae tracks. He is inspired mostly by his dad, James Montaque. He also find inspiration in other producers including Timbaland, 40, No ID, and The Renegades. He even has interest in artists such as Jay Z, Kanye West, and Meek Mill. “Basically anyone who has pursued and fulfilled their dreams I can make a connection with,” Montaque says.

His musical journey began when Montaque started playing drums at church, talent shows and at school. “I have always loved all types of music. I needed something to do with my time because I was bored,” he says. His dad told him to find something productive to do or he would find something for him (cleaning, laundry etc). So he taught himself to produce music and realized a new talent.

Montaque says that music is always different, new and fresh. No matter what even if it sounds the same. “To me it is creating life and emotion. Music has the ability to change your mood and your thoughts. When I have nothing on my mind I turn to my music to fill that void,” he says. He has been fortunate to showcase his music to accomplished artists Meek Mills, Wale, Rihanna, Slim Dollars, and others.

At the age of 15, he attended the SCMC conference and was discovered by RocNation A&R Malik Baker, president of MWE Management. Montaque says that encounter put his career on a bigger path and divulged more possibilities with the music industry.

To reach his goals, Montaque acknowledges that he has to do more each new day than he did the day before. “I am learning to manage my time. My dad always tells me to learn to manage my time or someone else will do it for you. I am learning to balance my school work, homework, and music production,” he says. This also means keeping his grades at school in an excellent status.

Montaque says he wants to take his musical talents and gifts as far as possible. He desires to be internationally known as “the go-to Producer”. “I also want to do product endorsements and maybe start my own product line in the future. His Brand Manager Britteney K of MWE Management is working to make sure that these things happen.

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J-Shammah

We Can Dress You Up! jshammah2@aol.com

individual. Their target audience are church go-ers, working executives, and ladies who are looking for a unique outfit for an evening out on the town. They also carry prom dresses, complete with accessories. Avbuere says she has something for everyone, whether it be male or female. This year, Avbuere is very excited about celebrating their 10th year anniversary and has created several specials and discounts for this occasion.

The J-Shammah concept began in 1992 in Lagos NigeriaAfrica. It has been In Greensboro, N.C. since 2003 with different distributors In London, the United Kingdom, Canada, New York, New Jersey, Virginia, Minnesota, and Texas. Avbuere says what she loves most about her boutique is being able to create her own beautiful design. “God made everything beautiful, everyone is beautiful in their own way and I love making people beautiful and happy,” she says. “It is a ministry for me. I got the calling to make people beautiful and God blessed me with the talent, passion and strength to do so”.

With sizes available between 2 and 24, J-Shammah products include contemporary outfits for males and females- including a personal design of assorted jewelries, designer skirt suits by Moshita, Natasia, Donna Vinci, Lily and Taylor, Tango and more.

They also carry unique-hats, head-ties and gears, matching lady’s shoes and bags from Spain and Italy. They also carry gift items and gift cards.

By Terry L. Watson Photos by Mykel Media Company

J

-Shammah when explained means Jehovah Shammah, The Lord is Here. Oludayo Avbuere, a devout woman of faith, decided to give this name to her unisex boutique in northeast Greensboro to acknowledge who God is in her life and share Him with everyone who stops by. Avbuere is a physical therapist by training with a masters degree in health administration. However her true passion is making feel and look good.

If you’re trying to avoid those huge crowds at the mall and other outlet stores then you should stop by J-Shammah. They are a specialized unisex boutique that stocks designer outfits and accessories from different countries around the world.

Avbuere goal is to help create a look and style for the unique

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“God is my main source of inspiration. He blesses me with knowledge, talent and daily vision,” Avbuere says. She also finds encouragement and strength in her three daughters, (Tripple E), and husband who she says is the wind beneath her wings.

“They encourage me and appreciate me and my godly mission,” she says. She also accredits her mother as being her biggest cheerleader, and brother as her constant helper. Avbuere says that J-Shammah only exists because of the costumers who continue to patronize and support her, year in and year out. h

“Genesis 1:31 says that God created everything and He saw it was beautiful. That is my principle.

Everyone is beautiful. Male, female, young or old. Just as god intended it to be. J-Shammah will bring out that beauty in you from head to toe.”

Oludayo Avbuere Want To Advertise? Call (336)340-7844

10 Year Anniversary Clearance Specials

J-Shammah Boutique

2800 North Church Street

Greensboro, NC 27405

336-255-8040

Hats, Shoes, Jewelry, and much more!

Sorena Hayes Ujima Flow

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By Terry L. Watson Photos by Howard Gaither

S

orena Hayes of Greensboro is the co-founder of Ujima Flow, an organized group whose sole purpose is to uplift the youth and their surroundiing communities.

Ujima Flow also raises funds to assist in the college education of local high school students. Hayes says she believes that starting with the youth is pivotal in helping to make a major impact and positive changes.

As the face and voice of Ujima Flow, Hayes is committed to serving. She is a member of The Greensboro Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and the Associate Matron of Magnolia Chapter #23, OES,PHA. She is also a member of Khalif Court #90 Daughters of Isis and holds the position of Inside Spy. Additionally, Hayes currently holds the title of Ms. Greensboro USA 2013.

Hayes is a graduate of Shaw University where she obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. She is Test Coordinator at James B. Dudley High School in Greensboro and wears many different hats in her community including an entrepreneur and owner of New Leaf Fitness 4 Life, a wellness and fitness company that encourages everyone to make fitness a priority. In March 2013, Hayes released her first fitness dvd, “ No More Excuses Time To Get Up And Move. This dvd is designed for all ages and fitness levels which can be found at Amazon.com While Ujima Flow remains focused to keeping youth involved in community service, Hayes says her vision is to help them recognize that beauty comes from within when giving to others and understanding that you can be anything you want to be.

“Focusing on self-esteem with our youth has allowed many of them to improve in school, participate in activities they thought they could never do, improved their public speaking, increased their confidence and so much more,” she says. Her annual event, The “I Love Me” pageant is designed to teach young ladies that “self love” regardless of skin color, hair color or size, is most important, and that they are beautiful inside and out, just because of who they are. Macaiah Wayne, daughter of Roosevelt and Christan Wayne was crowned 2013 Little Miss I Love Me. Ujima Flow also crowned Martika Brooks from Raleigh, N.C., daughter of Marikgan Brooks, the winner of the 2013 Jr Miss I Love Me title. The pageant was hosted by WFMY News 2 Anchor Tracey McCain and was a huge success.

Pictured with Sorena are young ladies who benefit from the services of her Pageant and community events.

Other team building and empowering events offered by Ujima Flow include Ujima Flow Adopt A Street, Triad Men of Distinction, Divas Shine and Father/Male Role Model Daughter Luncheon that took place at Harlem Bistro Restuarant. On October 27th, Hayes successfully completed another peagant that once again shed light on many young ladies who are desitined to succeed.

Because of her passion to serve the community and provide scholarships to our youth, Through these organizations, she has served the community in numerous ways. h

Ujima Flow Sorena Hayes (336)508-5815

November/December 2013

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Continued from page 29

Question and Answer from ISM Beats Manager Malik Baker A&R for RocNation/President MWE What made you take notice of ISM I thought it was pretty outstanding to meet such a young kid with such maturity in his work, especially after finding out that it was a new found love to him. I heard growth in his music and he definitely had potential that I wanted to work with and enhance. Knowing his family was behind him despite his age was also a huge reason to signing him to MWE and it actually made my decision easier because I could see he was extremely family oriented and so am I.

What artist could ism be working with in the future Well Ish is very versatile and the sky is the limit as far as I’m concerned for him. It not a question weather he make great music but the key to this business is timing. All I want from Ish is to continue mastering his craft to the best of his ability. He’s extremely talented and I’m very knowledgeable within my own craft so us working together will allow him to almost reach any genre or any artist because I believe in him that much.

What got you into the music industry Literally I started from the bottom. I was an Intern, picking up boxes, running errands and getting very important people coffee from Starucks. Until an opportunity presented itself, I was asked to give my opinion in a meeting about some music and my intake wowed the label. My pure unconditional love for music, along with knowledge, ambition and grind showed I had a promising future in this business. Shortly after I gave my opinion I signed my first top billboard artist and the rest was history. h

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100+

Help Us Feed Families for Thanksgiving

D

By Alana Allen

id you know each night one in five of us will go to bed hungry in North Carolina; these are our friends, family, and neighbors—and most of all this is our community. Within the city of Greensboro, we are ranked number 4 for having the highest food hardship rate nationwide. Sadly, this is major reality to a lot of people in our city and they need our help.

My organization, I Am A Queen and AskTani.com have partnered together to join an amazing cause led by Professionals Divas to feed 1,000 families for Thanksgiving.

Through this special initiative, Professional Divas has selected cities in the U.S. to join together to impact their communities during this holiday season. Our area of focus for this cause is our beloved city of Greensboro with a goal to feed 100+ families.

On Saturday, November 23, we will host our Thanksgiving Food Giveaway at the Windsor Recreation Center, located at 1601 E. Lee St., Greensboro from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. where we intend to have raised enough monies and collected enough food to feed 100+ families. We will open the doors at this event for families to come in to pick up boxes of frozen turkeys and nonperishable items to prepare their holiday dinner.

We are looking for the following donations to fill over 100 boxes to give to families: · Frozen Turkeys · Cans of Green Beans and Corn · Cans of Sweet Potatoes/Yams · Packets of Gravy Mix · Corn Bread Mix · Stuffing Mix · Cranberry Sauce · Mash Potatoes Mix · Macaroni & Cheese

Collaborating Nonprofits and Businesses: Footsteps to Follow, Beyond the Block, Angele’ N. Simpson Foundation of Love, Destined 4 Greatness Event Planning, Live Life Foundation, I Will Live, Restoration World Outreach Center, Shield Mentor and HDL Ministries.

Here’s How You Can Help: · Share this information with other nonprofits, churches or businesses to encourage them to collect food · Inform needy families to attend the event to pick up food boxes · Purchase a ticket at Black Barbie Hair Salon located at 1600 East Market St., Greensboro, N.C. · Donate funds online to help purchase food via PayPal. Click Here Drop Off Locations for Nonperishable Items: · Chandlar’s Florist and Coffee Shop located at 709 E Market St. #200A, Greensboro, N.C. (Freezer Available) · Royal Expressions of Dance located at 1220-E Battleground Ave., Greensboro N.C. · Comfort Inn located at 1103 Lanada Road, Greensboro, N.C. · Beyond Beauty Salon located at 137 N. Beaumont Ave., Burlington, N.C. · Black Barbie Hair Salon located at 1600 East Market St., Greensboro, N.C. If you have any questions about donating, sponsorship or volunteering please feel free to contact Alana Allen at iamaqueen2009@gmail.com, 336-638-1315 or visit www. iamaqueen.org. h

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Educational Feature

Christian

Shipman Southwest Guilford High School Greensboro, North Carolia Senior

Student Athlete Team Captain - Tailback Varsity Football Team - Tailback

GPA 3.2 GPA

Other Interests Drama Club, Piano Club Poetry

Future Goals Attend College on a Football Scholarship Major: Architectural Engineering

By Terry L. Watson Photos by Dontay Mitchell

C

hristian Shipman is a senior at Southwest Guilford High School in Greensboro. With a current GPA of 3.2 he proudly boasts that he has never failed a class, no matter how much he might have struggled. He has always been taught by his father to never except failure and God allows you to struggle to help you learn. Shipman has also learned to appreciate the reward of winning.

As part of the Drama and Piano clubs at Southwest he has been allowed to express his personality. To compliment Shipman’s personality, he also enjoys writing poetry. At tailback, Shipman is the current Team Captain for Southwest’ varsity football team.

Unfortunately he suffered a season ending ankle injury earlier this season. As a junior, he averaged 16 yards per carry as a second string runner and finished the year with 531 yards. To begin his senior year, he tallied 342 yards and six touchdowns for three games, even rushing for 120 yards and two touchdowns in the first quarter of one.

“I have always been the most outstanding defensive player every year since I was six years old. I use my play to speak for me and with me being injured, I’ve had to use my vocal skills to help my team continue to stay aggressive and have faith that they can win,” he says.

Shipman says this setback has humbled and made him to thank God for everything that he has.

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After high school, he plans to attend college on a football scholarship and study Architectural Engineering. He hopes to one day work alongside his father Dontay Mitchell at Unity Builders Inc. and help design and build houses for families with challenged incomes. “We have so many families that need a home and I feel that I can make a difference in designing some that will save the people money and provide a place for them to enjoy and raise a family,” Shipman says.

He says that God has been such a major part of his life. He has experienced troubles and trials that he says only prayer could help him get through them. He attends New Jerusalem Cathedral in Greensboro and donates clothes and volunteers his time by feeding the homeless at shelters on the weekends.

As the saying goes, “it takes a village to raise child” ― Shipman’s parents and family are doing their part. “My dad allows me to make my own decisions. He provides direction as a father to help guide me and not allow me to make mistakes. He is my trainer and has helped me become a better football player because he played the same position as I did in high school and college,” he says. In addition to his dad, he acknowledges his mother for being a constant source of encouragement, reminding him to never give up on what you want in life. “I believe with God, my mother, my dad and my grandmother I will never stay down if I fall because I will always have a supporting cast that will never allow me to give up,” says Shipman. h

November/December 2013

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10 1/2 month program 2006 Phillips Ave Greensboro, NC 27405 (336) 398-7537

Information provided by The Eckerd Youth Alternatives Community

T

he Eckerd Youth Alternatives Community based services in Greensboro is designed to provide safe, and quality in-home services, in conjunction with transition and family reunification services. Greensboro’s community intervention counselors provide a positive learning environment for both youth and their families. While working to develop individual and family growth, community intervention counselors server as mentors actively helping parents to increase their knowledge of themselves and their children.

Their target population are high risk boys and girls, ages 13 to 17, and their families who are referred by North Carolina Department of Public Safety/ Division of Juvenile Justice as a dispositional alternative and reside in Alamance, Caswell, Chatham, Durham, Guilford, Orange, Person, Randolph, and Rockingham counties.

Eckerd’s community-based services in Greensboro, North Carolina, are designed to address the emotional and behavioral needs of the youth and their families as a juvenile justice dispositional alternative.

Youth are referred in the following situations: (1) to maintain youth in their communities as a dispositional alternative to residential placement; (2) to maintain youth in their community while they await residential placement; (3) to provide support and services to the family while the youth is receiving treatment in a residential placement; and (4) to provide transitional services for youth returning to their home communities from a residential placement. Part of Eckerd’s new community-based delivery system in North Carolina to rehabilitate youth and improve outcomes, these services are family-focused, highlyeffective, cost-efficient and evidence-based. Individualized treatment plans include wrap-around services, evidence-based interventions, and family support through a network of community resources designed to strengthen the family unit and promote eventual self-sufficiency and last an average of six months. Staff is trained in evidence-based practices and includes a Community Intervention Manager, Licensed Clinical Specialist and four Community Intervention Counselors who maintain an average caseload of 12 youth.

Clinical Treatment Methodology Our community based services are committed to providing quality care to all youth. The values that serve as a foundation for these services include treating youth with unconditional positive regard, acknowledging that families are partners in treatment, and holding ourselves accountable to superior outcomes. It is our belief that each youth deserves a second chance. With these foundational beliefs, it is necessary that community based staff be knowledgeable in a variety of treatment methodologies, considering the diverse needs, ages, and histories of children referred to us by North Carolina Department of Public Safety/ Division of Juvenile Justice. Our community base service prides itself on individualizing the treatment of care for every youth, understanding that not every youth is alike. We have found that evidence based practices provide the best outcomes for the families that we serve.

• Therapeutic Crisis Intervention Therapeutic Crisis Intervention is a crisis prevention and intervention model. It provides youth care workers the knowledge and ability to effectively manage and de-escalate acute crisis, reduce potential and actual injury to children and staff, and develop learning circle within an organization.

• Motivational Interviewing Motivational Interviewing is an evidence-based practice which allows the human service professional the opportunity to provide information and guidance in a way that elicits and reinforces the youth’s movement towards change. It is a skill that uses open-ended questions, affirmations of the client’s strengths and sharing effective summaries.

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is also an evidence-based practice of psychotherapy that emphasizes the important role of thinking in how we feel and what we do. It is based on the idea that our thoughts cause our feelings and behaviors, not external things. The benefit of this is we can change the way we think, in order to feel and act better, even if the situation does not change.

• Forward Thinking Interactive Journals Forward Thinking Interactive Journals are a cognitive-behavioral series that use evidenced based strategies to assist youth involved in the criminal justice system in making positive changes to their thoughts, feelings and behaviors. When the youth apply the information that is presented in the journals, to their own lives, they are able to achieve their goals of responsible living.

Journals include: • Reentry planning • What got me here • Victim awareness • Individual change plan • Responsible behavior • Handling difficult emotions • Relationships and communication • For parents: Botvin’s Life skills training parent Guide It is our belief that through specific innovative solutions designed to meet the needs of the youth and families in which we serve that every youth will be successful at gaining a second chance. We also believe that a family is only as strong as its core. Our community intervention counselors are committed to helping families identify their strengths which are their foundations. Utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy, therapeutic crisis intervention, and motivational interviewing, counselors are giving families effective coping skills to build upon their foundation. By partnering with youth and their families Eckerd community based services- Greensboro is working to strengthen families not only today but for years to come. h

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Photo Contest

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Diesel Bryant NeSmith Son of Cyril and Melissa NeSmith Photo by Uppercase Photography Want To Advertise? Call (336)340-7844

Living Healthy

The Affordable Care Act and How it will Affect You Preventive Services Task Force-recommended services, and screenings for women, infants, children, and adolescents. No lifetime dollar limits. Annual dollar limits on essential benefits are restricted; in 2014 they are eliminated The Affordable Care Act (ACA) also known as ObamaCare started enrollments on Oct 1 2013 and will continue through March 31 2014. The Affordable Care Act (ACA) was signed into law in March 23, 2010 President Obama and contains many provisions that have staggered implementation dates from 2010 through 2018.

Individual plans have already seen the following changes as of January 1 2011: Dependents may stay on their parents plan until age 26, (the law also states that “dependents” do not have to live with their parents, be claimed as a dependent on tax returns, may be married and do not have to be enrolled in school). Children under age 19 will no longer be subject to pre-existing condition waiting periods or exclusions and can’t be denied coverage. Preventive care and medical screenings are covered in-network at 100%, with no cost sharing, including immunizations, U.S.

A key provision of the ACA established a grandfathering provision. Policies that were in effect when health care reform was enacted on March 23, 2010, may be granted grandfather status. This means that they may be exempt from many of the law’s near-term and long-term requirements as long as NO CHANGES were made since March 23, 2010. In exchange for the new rights and protections most Americans must obtain health coverage by 2014, get an exemption, or pay an annual fee. To help make buying affordable health insurance easy the ACA creates State specific health insurance marketplaces (also known as exchanges) where Americans without health coverage can shop for health insurance using cost assistance. Coverage purchased through the marketplace doesn’t start until January 1st, 2014.

There are 2 types of cost assistance known as “subsidies” available through the ACA

marketplaces: Advanced premium tax credits which lower your monthly premium costs. Cost sharing reductions which lower your out-of-pocket costs for copays, coinsurance and deductibles.

Most Americans will have the option to stay on their current healthcare plans. HealthCare. gov is the official site on the Affordable Care Act and the Health Insurance Marketplace. No one, including seniors, will be forced not to have healthcare factors that can affect premiums of new insurance plans starting in 2014 are your income, age, tobacco use, family size, geography and the type of plan you buy. This applies to all plans sold through your State’s health insurance marketplace. Individuals currently covered by group plans on their jobs, VA benefits, Medicare, & Medicaid are adjusted automatically. North Carolina has 2 options: BlueCross BlueShield of North Carolina & Coventry.

To get your personal estimate on the amount of subsidy you and your family may qualify for send emails to info@dualvisioninc.com or give us a call at (336) 229-5545. Our office is located at 1052 South Church Street Burlington, NC 27215. h

Monae’s Hair Gallerie

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

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

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Visit us online to find pick up locations and much more!

www.huamimagazine.com

Call 336-340-7844 to advertise in our January 2014 Edition November/December 2013

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Community Computers Professional Computer Services At a Reasonable Price

336-323-8269

2701 South Elm Eugene Street Greensboro, NC 27406 CommunityComputersGreensboro@gmail.com

Tel: 336-297 4055

“Season's Greetings from my Family to Yours�

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The Redeemed Christian Church of God Want To Advertise? Call (336)340-7844

Weddings, corporate events, family reunions, fundraisers an much more!

Baby Showers, Bridal Showers, Corporate Events, Family Reunions, Receptions, Fundraising Galas, Rehearsal Dinners, Weddings, and much more!

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www.jazzydesigngraphic.com

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Services Offered

MOBILE SERVICES AVAILABLE! 44

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

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The Upholstery Doctor Bringing Old Furniture Back To Life

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Making Moving Easier On You Since 2001

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After

November/December 2013

Office

336-834-2654

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286 East Front Street Burlington, NC 27215 (336)227-9887 www.occasions-cateringnc.com

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Contact us or visit our Catering Company in Burlington, N.C. where we specialize in Country Cuisine, such as BBQ Ribs, Macaroni and Cheese, Collard Greens and more.

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Want To Advertise? Call (336)340-7844

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