July 2013 huami magazine

July/August 2013 Volume 3 Issue 3 FREE

ESTEEM

A Total Transformation

Memorial Planning Associates

Lupus

Pass The

CAKE Please!

Four Stories of Survival

Pastor

Deon Clark of Mount Zion Baptist Church

#YouthPraiseTurntUp

www.occasionscateringnc@yahoo..com

A Big Thank You! A Letter from the Editor On June 15th, 2013, we conducted the 2nd Annual Huami Magazine Community Cookout at Festival Park in downtown Greensboro. This year seemed to go a lot smoother than the one last year. I accredit this success to the many individuals, non-profit organizations, and businesses who donated their time and resources, all for a good cause. I would like to thank all of you for helping Huami Magazine pull of such a great event.

Let me begin with Tonya Funderburk who took charge of the food preparation and distribution segment of the event. With her planning and assistance we were able to feed nearly 1800 people. The team that she assembled (which consisted of her friends) ensured that the food was ready and in order. Her order and efficiency is an accurate representation of who she is.

www.huamimagazine.com Editor In Chief

Terry L. Watson

Shayla Thompson and James “DJ Big Boi” Johnson helped to ensure that the music and entertainment was on time and on point. Together, they worked from start to finish with each performer and kept the party moving along. Without them, I can only imagine how things would have been.

Writers

Tonya Dixon Terry L. Watson Alana Allen

Another individual who also provided his time and resources, but was not in attendance was Donzelle Owens. He helped me develop a relationship with Peytons Promise from Charlotte. Their contributions and involvement brought a different twist to this years event and I look forward to working with them both in the future. Donzell, thanks so much for the donations and delivery of everything.

Photographers

Howard Gaither Dr. Tiffany Fuller Perfect Lenz Photogrphy Charles Media Photography Still Shots Photography Layout

Reggie McGee went above and beyond of what was asked of him. He showed up early and was one last individuals to leave. He took charge of the setup and breakdown, gathered trash and kept the grounds clean. He also assisted vendors with their needs and was my right hand man on that day. I really appreciate him for all that he did.

I truly appreciated Tonya Dixon for filling in where ever I needed her. She was able to assist our vendors and sponsors, and also serve food and do whatever it took and was asked of her. I thank you and appreciate you.

I thank Robert Joyner, Jamonica Withers, Park West Barber College, The Cove Boutique, Imani Fatiha, Kenyatta Johnson, Donevan Cherry, Johnny Alston, Eric Jones, Dave Pittman, Tonya Dixon, Joshia Coltrane, Sheanna Bonner, Busta Brown, Trevor Bethel, Alana Allen, AyannaKai Cross, Tony Watson, Albany Jones, Lindsay Watson, Dacyn England, Triad Continental, and all of the sponsors and volunteers who helped make the event possible.

Terry L. Watson

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.

Editor/Founder

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On The Cover Photo by Still Shots Photography

CONTENTS

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Memorial Planning Associates

July/August 2013

A Prosperous Lifestyle

14

Putting a Lid on Lupus

34

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

Giving Back Back To School Drive

Pastor Deon Clark and Summer Craze 2013

The African School

22 July/August 2013

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Percell Raleigh

Not Just a Consignment The Green Pocket Living Healthy Esteem Fitness Babrber & Cosmetology Forum Retail In Your Shop Blessed To Be A Blessing Pastor Delores Johnson Recycle Your Mattress Mattess Go Round Fine Gentlemens Clothing Be Spoke Alfa

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Crystal Pass

6 7 32 30 18 40 48

22 5

Community Connection

GREENSBORO

By Alana Allen Photo by Alana Allen

Giving Back To Our Youth

Impacting the Community with the 5th Annual Back to School Drive beautiful head, parents have to prepare their kids to get back on the routine of a bed time, attend school orientation and budget for back to school shopping.

With this being said, the most important thing for the school year is the necessary school supplies for our children to excel in their academics. It doesn’t matter what grade, it goes from pre K-12th graders who need school supplies. However, what happens to those children who don’t have the same opportunity as their peers? What about the parents who have to focus on paying the bills and worrying about school supplies later? This is the real truth of so many children in our communities not being prepared to go back to school.

When it comes to the summer, our kids enjoy having fun, playing games and hanging with friends during their two and a half month break from school. However, when August peaks its

However, I Am A Queen is changing the stigma that our youth go through on the first day of school. This organization has partnered with a group of nonprofits and organizations, James B. Dudley High School Athletic Booster Club, Footsteps to Follow, Beyond the Block,

Friends of Jamal Fox, Ange’le’ N. Simpson Foundation of Love and Destined for Greatness Event Planning to kick off the 5th Annual Back to School Drive. The school supply drive will take place on Saturday, August 3 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.in the gymnasium of the Windsor Recreation Center, located at 1601 E. Lee St., Greensboro, N.C. Last year’s goal was to help 200 children, and the organizations exceeded that goal of helping 247 children with back packs and supplies.

This year’s goal is to secure 500 back packs along with other school supplies; which means this community event is doubling what was achieved last year.

Items Needed for School Drive are Back packs (500 Goal), Pencils, Pens, Paper, · Notebooks, Binders, Folders, Crayons, Color Pencils, Glue Sticks, Scissors, and Calculators.

For more information on how to donate or volunteer, please contact Alana V. Allen at 336202-7119, iamaqueen2009@gmail.com or visit www.iamaqueen.org. h

RON

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

Linease Washington - Event Planner

(336)298-6885

www.acreamaffair.com

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Community Connection

GREENSBORO Terry L. Watson Photo by Mykel Media Company

The Green Pocket Resale for the Fashionable Female Owned and operated by Adrienne Rogers, The Green Pocket is a place where your wardrobe and your wallet will be refreshed and renewed.

by the consignor at the end of the 60-90 period.

However, at The Green Pocket, consignors/ suppliers are allowed an indefinite period of time to sell items. In addition, they have the option to have sale proceeds distributed to four organizations of their choice, and on a monthly basis to strengthen fundraising efforts for the community. Items not selected for sale are donated to other charities. The supplier receives a tax statement for all items and funds donated.

Rogers is a native of Martinsville, VA and has lived in Greensboro, N.C. since 1996. She is a wife and a mother of two daughters and one son. She is also graduate of North Carolina A&T State University and has been a member of Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Greensboro since 1996. She describers herself as a fun-loving, light-hearted individual who believes in living out her dreams. When she is not managing operations at her store, Rogers also serves as a private accountant.

The Green Pocket is a resale/consignment store with a twist. In addition to offering house decor, one can find new and gently used clothing, shoes, purses, and accessories that are geared for ladies and girls (girls size 4 - ladies plus sizes).

Rogers says she enjoys getting to know people and helping them find a great deal. “I get excited when people can leave my store looking and feeling great without busting the budget,” she says. Rogers also provides notary services. h

Most typical consignment stores only allow the consignor 60-90 days to have their items sold. Any sale proceeds are issued directly to the consignor in the form of cash or store credit, and any unsold items must be picked up

The Green Pocket 4725D High Point Rd. Greensboro, NC 27407 (behind Enterprise Rental Car) 336-907-8449

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

Open Sundays 12pm - 6pm

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

July/August 2013

The Sweet Shop Homemade Pound Cakes by Margaret Elaine Designs, LLC. 631 S. Elm Street Suite A Greensboro, NC 27401 (336)790-0242

HuamiMagazine.com

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The Voice and Vision of

Youth Blaze

Youth Ministry of Mt. Zion Baptist Church of Greensboro, Inc.

By Tonya Dixon - Photos by Still Shots Photography

D

eon Clark has always been involved in the church and ministry. He grew up in the church. He comes from generations of pastors and preachers; from his grandfather to grandmother to aunts, uncles and cousins. The Greensboro native is a self-professed church baby. Ministry was and always will be a part of his everyday life. But one thing he isn’t is perfect.

As a matter of fact he says that he is perfectly imperfect, but perfectly determined to do and be what God has ordained for him.

Although Clark grew up in church and was surrounded by church leaders he didn’t immediately accept the obvious ministerial call upon his life. In fact, it took some time and even rejection of his destiny before he ultimately surrendered to the will of God for his life. “Growing up I was always in church.

Tuesday night prayer; Wednesday night Bible study, Thursday night rehearsal and all day Sunday,” he jokes. “It’s funny, but because of that I wanted to experience what was outside of the church. So I strayed and tried to do my own thing, but I got to a point where I hit a wall and I just couldn’t go any further. I finally recognized and accepted the call of God on my life.

But still going astray made me who I am today.”

Today Clark is the youth pastor for the growing and dynamic youth ministry at Mt. Zion Baptist Church of Greensboro, Inc. It’s his imperfect past that perfectly enables him to minister and lead over 1200 youth on a consistent basis. It’s overwhelming, daunting and at times a 24 hour job, but Clark simply calls it ministry and he loves every minute of it. The former insurance adjuster says becoming youth pastor was nothing but answered prayer. He says he had a good job and made good money but it was difficult and stressful with no real reward and it certainly wasn’t his passion. Ministry was his

passion. “I would have to take vacation days to accept and fulfill speaking engagements so I just began to talk to God about it. I asked God if he would make a way for me [to operate in ministry] and he did just that. The position became available at Mt. Zion, I interviewed for it, God opened the door and I walked in.”

youth that at first glance seem unreachable.

Clark gives all glory to God for answered prayer but he’s also grateful for the men and women like his grandmother, Pastor Willie Mae Scott, who was also his pastor growing up and taught him much of what he knows in ministry and Apostle Reginald White, his spiritual father who spiritually guides him daily and Bishop George W. Brooks, a great mentor who believed in him enough to hire and allow him the opportunity to share his ministry gift on a different level, and current Senior Pastor Bryan J. Pierce who is training and mentoring him to become a great leader and better man. Pastor Pierce has trusted the God in him enough to allow Clark to be creative and use unconventional resources and tactics to reach and engage a generation of

However, Pastor Clark readily admits he is not a one man show. He isn’t able to operate in ministry without the many committed team members including dedicated Advisory Chair Tonya Young, Felicia Andrews, Dee Jordan, Fred King, Tamera Dix, Jackie Jackson and Reese Marchan that assist with the youth ministry. Most importantly his high school sweetheart of 18 years, (8 of them in marriage) his lovely wife Jennifer is involved and immersed in the youth ministry as well. She is a nurse by profession, but she has come to be a role model for many of the young females; a trusted and listening ear to vent, a confidant, counselor and voice of reason. Jennifer says she’s more of the support system for her husband. She is his biggest cheerleader and encourages his creativity Continued on the next page

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Continued from page 9 even when she can’t always be alongside of him; she supports and undergirds the family by caring for their twins Noah and Nilah when ministry calls Pastor Clark away. They both understand ministry is constant. It doesn’t punch a time clock, end at a certain time of day and restart the next. In fact there are often times when ministry and family life lines are blurred, but they welcome and embrace it all. welcome and embrace it all. Pastor Clark makes it clear that he could not do this without his wife being by his side, and he is a better man because of her.

Mount Zion has one of the country’s largest Youth Ministries

Clark has been the youth pastor at Mt. Zion for nearly two years and nothing about him or the ministry is ordinary, predictable or conventional and that’s exactly how Clark believes it should be. He told God he wanted to make a difference, but he didn’t want to be like everyone else. He has definitely succeeded. Clark uses every available tool to minister to the youth including the youth ministry team’s latest idea to roller skate from the chapel to the main sanctuary to welcome and escort any uninvolved youth to the youth church service.

Perhaps it was when he arranged for the North Carolina A&T drum line to “drop a few beats” during a ministry event or maybe it was when he brought in DJs to scratch and mix during the New Year’s Eve Service? Unconventional as they and he may have been, the bottom line is that no matter what seemingly “unchurchy” thing is going on, the invitation for salvation is always extended and dozens, hundreds even, of souls are being saved on a regular basis. This Clark says, is thier ultimate goal.

The youth are coming (and staying) because of the unique delivery of the Gospel message but also because they have developed relationships that they can trust in and count on. Pastor Clark believes relationship is imperative and the foundation to touching and changing the lives of the youth.

Clark will often have “Real Talk Sessions” with the youth. He simply gets them together, sits down and just says, “Tell me what’s on your mind.” The activity works because the youth trust him, and he respects them. He’s not just visible and onsite at the church but he makes regular trips to different schools throughout Guilford County and even conducts the sessions on the school campuses. He has learned that relationship goes much further with youth than cold, indignant condemnation.

Summer Craze is in its 2nd year of existence.

Pictured (left to right) Pastor Deon Clark, Bishop George W. Brooks, Senior Pastor Bryan J. Pierce, and Pastor Ryan Brooks

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“You would be surprised at what many kids are dealing withdepression, suicidal thoughts, lack of self esteem, pregnancy, STDs, simply trying to fit in, and even rape,” Clark says. He admits admonition and chastisement is important and has its place, but to just deal with kids by only addressing the wrong is a recipe for failure. “We dare and challenge our kids to be different. We teach them to be trendsetters; to change their environment. We want to equip them to change and shift their environments. If we equip them to change their environment they will go out and become trendsetters. When they become trendsetters they get followers. Followers will follow them here, because they have shifted their surroundings and circumstances. We have kids that worship here whose parents don’t even attend. Once the child comes though, the parent comes just to see what’s going on because their child is so interested in coming.”

The youth ministry at Mt. Zion is broken down into three sections: the nursery (newborn to 4 yrs. old), Kings Children Church or KCC (K-5th) and Youth Blaze (6th-12th grade); and Pastor Clark oversees and interacts with them all. Although he is in more direct contact with Youth Blaze, he makes every effort to devote specific and intentional time with each group, developing relationships and helping to cultivate their entire physical and spiritual beings. Youth church is held every first, third and fourth Sunday at 10:00am in the church chapel. But don’t expect anything resembling normal. Rather, expect

The Youth Ministry radical, out of the box ministry. Everything involving the youth ministry is purposeful and intentional. Everything is done with the youth in mind. It’s all about presenting the consistent and powerful Gospel of Jesus Christ to a very often inconsistent population. “It’s very hard to keep youth consistent and involved. It’s about being different and being attractive because you can’t do ministry in 2013 like you did it in 2005 or even 2008.

It’s not the same,” says Clark. We are facing a generation that has so much to get into. People say you are not competing with the world, but in actuality you are competing with the world to make them Christians and let them know being a Christian is okay. We’re competing with the world, but we’re not conforming to the world. I get them in by competing with the world. Once we get them in, we have them.”

Summer Craze Accordingly, the competition is fierce and the youth ministry is determined to win souls at any cost. This summer the youth ministry will host the second year of Summer Craze. It’s one of the largest youth conferences in the area and it’s like nothing else. From July 29 through August 3, Mt. Zion Baptist Church is the place to be for all youth. The sheer amount of events completely and totally tailored for the youth is mindboggling. tailored for the youth is mindboggling. It’s a youth conference jam packed into six days of worship, service project, education and fun all in effort to make an impact on the youth. There will be an educational day including free parent workshops, a college fair, bowling, laser tag, a service project, teen panel discussions, day party, a spelling bee, daily worship and spiritual encounters, a Sunday’s Best competition for the youth judged

by Sunday’s Best winner and recording artist Leandria Johnson (who will also perform), with the winner receiving cost to go audition for the real show, and a family fun day on the front lawn with rides and games and much more. One thousand book bags filled with school supplies to families in need. That Friday night the Summer Craze “all white party” will be in full effect at the Empire Room in downtown Greensboro, featuring a DJ, Recording artist Travis Greene, and humble Tip as the room will be adorned with glitz and glamour suitable for all the young superstars of the evening. This will be an event to remember for our young people.

“Summer is about to jump

Pastor Deon Clark and his wife Jennifer have enjoyed over 8 years of marriage. They have twin children (Noah and Nilah).

Pastor Deon Clark is committed to spreading the word of God to every person that he comes in contact with.

out of the box and flip upside down”

Pastor Clark realizes that a great deal of what the church does to reach the youth is new and very unconventional.

Nevertheless it’s all done through prayer and with the consent of leadership, but he believes the church can’t be so stuck in its ways that it loses the very generation it is serving. “If we can get out of the box, we can engage them and then we can win them. There is a purpose in everything we do. In each event we will always present an opportunity to save a soul. That’s our bottom line goal; to save souls and to win this generation. We want to ‘blaze up’ this city and generation for Kingdom purpose.

As long as we remain in line with God and Pastor Pierce’s leadership then the rest will be okay.” Pastor Clark stated he does not take this lightly, and his goal is to make immediate impact on everyone who he gets a chance to minister to. h

Pastor Clark also prays and covers his leaders, as they are vitally important to the ministry.

Continued on the next page

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Testimonies Pastor Bryan J. Pierce “We are very proud of Pastor Deon Clark! He has certainly been an asset to our team. His creativity is second to none. One of the highlights of last year for our Church was our “Summer Craze” Youth conference which featured a college fair with 76 colleges represented and over 2500 in attendance. More than his many accolades and accomplishments, Pastor Clark truly has a heart for our Youth.”

Brittany Everhart: “Pastor Deon has been a Phenomenal influence, not only with my spiritual guidance, but also with my personal life. He goes above and beyond the “Youth Pastor” title. He is a very reliable man and a great friend.

Vance McRae: “Pastor deon Clark is a great man of God. He is the type of Pastor that will stand up for you in any situation. He gives great advice and always refers it to the bible and what God would do.”

Conise Green: “Youth Blaze is a group of radical youth with a hunger and thirst for Christ.

We have a strong head(Pastor D) who encourages us to cover one another #Gotitcovered.”

Kemiya Gibbs: “I love Youth Blaze because it allows me to be free and it gives me a reason to come to church. Pastor Deon gets on our level by giving us topics that actually relate to us.”

Dominique Jackson: “Pastor D is the best Youth Pastor that I know, and Youth Blaze is a place that is on fire for God. Pastor D is not only our Youth Pastor but he is also a father figure to us. He always wants the best for us and never lets us down. I can honestly say I love him and I know he will always have my back.”

2013 Summer Craze Youth Conference Itinerary

inc. reg)/team building

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Palmica Robinson

By Terry L. Watson Photos by Still Shots Photography

Living Beyond Challenges

P

almica Robinson describes herself as a loving and devoted mother and friend. She is glad to be alive in spite of everything she has been through. She is also a woman who openly proclaims her love for God and credits him with making provisions for her life. These provisions have allowed her to enjoy a career as a professional hair stylist that has spanned for nearly 17 years.

Currently she is the co-owner of Prosperity Styles Hair Salon in Greensboro.

A native of Greensboro and graduate of James B. Dudley High School, Robinson had to adjust to a few changes in her life. After giving birth to her son in 2010, she had taken him to the hospital for a illness. While there, she blacked out and was examined also. The doctors told her that she suffered from Vertigo, a feeling of dizziness that causes someone to feel like their surroundings are moving or spinning.

Vertigo is usually caused by an inner ear problem, but may also be linked to some types of eyesight disorders. Robinson says this didn’t make any sense to her. After visiting a ear, nose and throat specialist, and under going a MRI, Robinson was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis.

MS is a chronic, often disabling disease that attacks the central nervous system, which is made up of the brain, spinal cord, and optic nerves. Symptoms may be mild, such as numbness in the limbs, or severe, such as paralysis or loss of vision. The progress, severity, and specific symptoms of MS are unpredictable and vary from one person to another. Robinson says after being diagnosed she felt lost. Understandably, she cried but says she didn’t have much time to. She had a child to raise and all she knew was to lean on her faith in God. “I believed that God wouldn’t put me through this if I couldn’t handle it,” she says.

Trying to find medication that is decent and suitable has been a challenge for Robinson. Refusing to give way to fear, she is constantly thinking of her kids. “I just want to be healthy for them, so I strive to educate myself about my illness. Doing so has also allowed my faith to grow,” she says. She stopped

taking her medication after having a negative reaction. She hasn’t taken any additional treatment for almost a year. Even though her actions are against the advise of her doctors, Robinson says she truly believes that she is healed or will be in time.

She has always had a passion to help others and put her problems aside. This is why she started a non-profit foundation, Prosperity For Life. Its goal is to raise awareness about MS and to give a voice and support to others who may be suffering with the disease also. Last year she conducted a fund-raiser for her foundation in Greensboro.

A successful event, Robinson has planned a “Hair-a-Thon” for August 11, 2013, to be held at Leons Beauty School. She is relying on the support of the Beauty and Barber industry as well as the community to make the event a great success. “I pray that we can all come together and make a difference. You are only who you say you are, and you will only do what you allow yourself to do,” she says.

Robinson says that God wouldn’t have given her a vision if He didn’t want her to follow through with it. She believes that she is just a vessel that she is able to help at least one person through the her efforts and fund-raisers. After having several family members who have also battled MS and other ailments, she is determined to live everyday with a prosperous mindset.

She also plans to do this while adoring a smile that exudes a love she has for life and everyone she may come in contact with. In addition to her fund-raisers, Robinson is also planning other events including a walk and online store that will provide shirts, mugs, and more merchandise to assist with raising money for her foundation. For more information about the Hair-a-Thon event, please visit online at www.prosperity4life.net h

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Percell Raleigh

By Tonya Dixon Photos by Percel Raleigh

P

ercell “Scooter” Raleigh has endured more adversity in the last 32 years than most people could barely imagine. But through it all his resolve has remained the same. He has learned to be content in whatever state he finds himself.

After Raleigh graduated from Smith High School in Greensboro, North Carolina his plans were simple. He would continue to work the family business—broom making—with his father.

No stranger to hard work, Raleigh was more than content getting his hands dirty, living a normal life and keeping busy. Nevertheless, his life would soon be the furthest thing from normal.

Approximately two to three months following his high school graduation he started having pain in his ankles and feet. The prognosis was severe arthritis. It wasn’t long thereafter that he found himself walking with a cane.

The idea of a seemingly healthy teenager depending upon a walking cane for stability was abnormal at best. In addition, it was perplexing. Nevertheless, Raleigh did his best to maintain a sense of normalcy and continue working, even if it included the use of a cane. It wasn’t long thereafter that his life would again be shaken. He went through a string of serious life-threatening illnesses.

He had a severe seizure, began hemorrhaging in his stomach, had to have emergency surgery, went into a coma for nearly six weeks, and his kidney’s began to fail requiring him to take dialysis treatments. All of which forced him to spend more than three months in the hospital.

Ultimately, Raleigh was told that virtually all of his issues were the result of his kidney failure, which in and of itself was a mystery.

The doctors could not explain why his kidneys were not operating properly.

Unbeknownst to him, taking dialysis treatments would become as second nature to Raleigh as taking a breath of air, however he never would be given a definitive answer explaining the reason behind his kidney failure. During that time period blacks in the

area basically only went to one hospital—L .Richardson Hospital.

It was severely lacking in updated equipment to sufficiently care for rare illnesses and simply could not deal with the sheer volume of issues Raleigh experienced. Eventually he became a patient at all the area hospitals, from Duke Medical Center to UNC Chapel Hill to Wake Forest Baptist, seeking answers and treatment. There were no dialysis machines when Raleigh initially began treatments.

Everything was conducted manually. The entire treatment was dispersed at one time. Tubes ran from the abdomen to bags and bottles nearby. As time passed and technology and education surrounding kidney disease increased so did the process.

Eventually machines replaced the bags and bottles and the tube was placed in a more inconspicuous area on the body. Ultimately he discovered it would just be something he had to accept; and if that was what he had to do, he was certainly able to do it. He says, “I told myself I’m not going to get down on myself. I’m going to live. I’m going to keep doing what I was doing before I got sick.

As the years passed, Raleigh not only learned to live with the burden of taking dialysis treatments but he learned to thrive. Nevertheless, it seemed whenever the trials in his life settled down; tribulation would decide to take a turn. Soon he was called to come to UNC Chapel Hill; they had a kidney available for a transplant. Needless to say he was more than excited. The doctors performed the surgery and were prepared to count it as a success; however, the unexpected and unexplained happened.

After the surgery was completed the doctors were astonished to discover that as soon as the kidneys were implanted, the overwhelming strength of his stomach muscles began to crush the kidneys. They had no alternative but to remove the kidneys.

Before the day was over Raleigh was forced to begin dialysis treatments yet again. In addition, he lost an enormous amount of blood and became very sick. His condition was grave, yet miraculously he lived through it all. The disappointment was there but he maintained that if he had anything to do with it, he would Continued on page 42

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Pastor

P

Delores Johnson

By Tonya Dixon Photos by Perfect Lenz Photography

astor Deloris Johnson never imagined she would do much of what she does nor does she really understand how she is able to do it all, but one thing she is absolutely certain of is that God has ordained her to do it all. From running a daycare center, various community assistance programs, several group homes (and more on the way), to pastoring a growing and thriving church and ministering to all types of people and ages, Pastor Johnson has enough on her plate to keep five people busy. Nevertheless, she wouldn’t trade any of it for the world, because she recognizes she is doing exactly what God intended for her life.

In 1976, the Florence, SC native moved to Greensboro by way of Brooklyn, NY. She worked for several years at North Carolina A&T State University before becoming affiliated with Wells Memorial COGIC. In 1985 she became the executive administrative assistant for the church’s pastor, Bishop Ithiel C. Clemmons. It was an ironic situation neither. Johnson or Clemmons knew their paths had previously crossed on two separate occasions. As a child Johnson spent summers in a town in Pennsylvania where Bishop Clemmons pastored a church. Years later in Brooklyn, NY, Johnson lived on the same street as another church pastored by Bishop Clemmons.

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Even still, following the direction of God, Johnson and her husband moved to Greensboro and ultimately joined Wells Memorial COGIC which was then pastored by Bishop Clemmons.

The strategic and behind-the-scenes intertwining of their lives was simply the seamless hand of God setting foundation and fulfilling purpose and destiny.

While working under Bishop Ithiel and Clara C. Clemmons, Johnson helped start a daycare center at the church as well as the International Prayer and Life Clinic. Both continue to play a major role in her life today.

Johnson ultimately purchased the daycare from the church and relocated to the current location, 2020 Textile Drive.

The COGIC Cathedral Day Care Center has become a labor of love for Johnson.

She admits it’s not something she would have ever chosen to do, but she absolutely knows it’s what God wants her to do. She gets so much joy from the center that she beams with pride when she talks about it.

“I call myself semi-retired, but I’m here every day,” she laughs. “But I enjoy it so much. And you would be surprised at the amount of parents that just come here and pour their hearts out to me. I guess they just feel they can confide in me. Some will come in, sit down and weep and cry, but when they leave out they have a sense of being; a sense of hope that they can make it. And that’s my thing. I want to give them hope. I want to let them know there’s a better way. There is an alternative lifestyle to the lifestyle they are living. I often tell young women; no you don’t have to go down that road to care for your children.”

Giving hope and comfort is exactly what the day care center does. Johnson says many of the children come in and act unruly, but all they need is a little pat on the head and some love. The

staff tries to get the children to harness all the unproductive energy they have and point it in a more positive direction. For example, the center has a garden that all able students take part in. They help plant, cultivate and harvest. Johnson says the children have really taken to the project and are extremely proud of themselves. Likewise, Johnson is proud of the children.

“What gives me joy is when I look at them and see how they have joy about it and are proud of it.

The children planted the garden. It’s just a joy to see them excited and trying to tell their parents what’s planted and where it’s planted,” she says. “We are trying to combat obesity and give them an alternative to fast food. They have planted herbs, squash, green peppers, cucumbers, strawberries, blueberries, lettuce, watermelon and more. At the appropriate time they will harvest and eat the foods, making salads and such. The kids love it. We even have a composte bin in the back.” The day care center is for ages six weeks to 12 years old. There is also an afterschool program and the center is one of only a few in the area offering care for special needs children.

Johnson isn’t just concerned about the ones that are enrolled at the daycare center though; she sees her life’s mission is to help anyone in need. As a matter of fact she says her whole aim in life is to try to be a help and relieve the sufferings of humanity in any way she can. Together, the daycare center and her church, Prayer and Life Ministries, take part in the NC Child and Adult feeding program. The program offers daily food options to any of the neighborhood children (whether they are enrolled at the day care center or not) that would not ordinarily have access to consistent nutritional meals on a daily basis.

There is a summer feeding program and then an at-risk program that activates once summer has ended. Johnson knows she is right where she is supposed to be. She is impacting

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“I want to give them hope. I want to let them know there’s a better way. There is an alternative lifestyle to the lifestyle they are living.” her community and changing lives on a daily basis. More importantly, she says, is that she gets the opportunity to share with all those lives that Jesus loves them. Even at the day care center. She lets the parents know upfront that COGIC Cathedral Day Care Center is faith-based.

“We don’t teach and preach denomination, but we will teach them the Lord’s Prayer, to say a prayer before meals and scriptures like John 3:16,” she says. The parents often tell her amusing stories that the kids refuse to eat at home without first praying over their meal. It’s those stories that fill her heart with joy as well as the daily interaction she has with the children.

Although she isn’t regularly in a teaching room she does make special “guest” appearances when she is needed and all of the children call her grandma.

Johnson says it gets hard but everything that she has accomplished has been by the grace of God. It has all come through prayer, dedication and hard work; but prayer has always been the key factor. Her foundation has always been and will always be based upon prayer. She says she has a prayer ministry. She and her church, Prayer and Life Ministries, have become known for being prayer warriors. She regularly receives calls from all over to pray for people and accordingly she takes time from her busy schedule to meet with people one-on-one just to pray with and for them.

She says it isn’t a burden when you know you are called to do it. In fact, every year the church comes together with the community or whomever would like to attend and prays a special

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prayer of protection over all the children that they would be kept from all danger. Since they have begun having the corporate prayer Johnson says not one child has been hurt. God has been faithful and has protected them.

Just when it seems good, old’ fashioned prayer and altar call meetings and services have all but disappeared from churches, Pastor Johnson is quick to remind that Prayer and Life Ministries still has them and will continue to have them. “Holiness is right. I tell people it’s not the church or the denomination, rather holiness is a lifestyle. If you are Baptist, be holy. If you are Catholic, be holy.

Just be holy. I’m a firm believer in that and no one will ever convince me otherwise,” she says.

With all that Pastor Johnson has accomplished and does she continues to look toward the future. She has her sights set on a top-notch charter school. If she is as persistent as she has been with everything else in her life, there is no doubt it will come to pass. In the meantime she still keeps a loving and watchful eye at the daycare, counsels, preaches and prays at the church and helps uplift the community as much as she can. “It takes God to do it all. Thirty years ago when I was 43 people were telling me to slow down, but I’m going just as strong today and I’m 73 years old.” h

Prayer & Life Ministries C.O.G.I.C. 1205 N. English Street Greensboro, NC 27405

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Crystal Pass

PassThe Cake Please!!

By Terry L. Watson Photos by Perfect Lenz Photography

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he original business name was C. A. P.’s Cakes, (an acronym for her and her father’s initials) Crystal Anne Pass, and Charles Albert Pass. When she set up an e-mail account with the username ‘Pass The Cake Please’ her clients began to mistake it for her business name. The only child of the late Mary S. Pass and the late Charles A. Pass, her parents were sure they would have a son to carry on the family name. When she arrived as a girl they had to come up with something quickly. People called him Big CAP and called her Lil’ CAP. “About three years ago, I decided to change the business name from C.A.P.’s Cakes to Simply Sweet, but it just didn’t seem to stick,” she says. She eventually conducted a poll amongst her fans on Facebook to decide on the name of her business. Pass The Cake Please! was the unanimous victor.

A native of Greensboro, N.C., Pass believes in life-long learning. She is a graduate of North Carolina A&T State University and holds a B.S. and a M.S. in Food Science and Nutrition. She also has a A. A. S in Baking & Pastry Arts. and is a selfproclaimed “foodie” and declares to be an overcomer in many of the challenges that life has presented. Her official business began in 2006 but she has been baking cakes since she was eight years old, and unsupervised. “I often say that my “love affair” with baking started when I got an Easy Bake Oven for Christmas one year as a young child. My parents had given me the oven, but did not buy the light bulb needed to operate the oven,” she says. Since she couldn’t use the Easy Bake Oven, she had to use the oven in their home.

One summer she decided to make a pound cake from scratch. Her mother was teaching summer school and Pass was at home with her father. “I loved being in the kitchen whenever my mom would be baking and I was always standing at her heels to see what she was doing,” she says. Her mom had been talking about making a pound cake for days, but had not gotten around to doing it. Pass took the initiative to at least try it. “I grabbed a cookbook off of the bookshelf and started baking. By the time my mom got home, the cake was finished baking and it had come out beautifully,” she explains. “Thus, my baking career started.” Soon she would even bake cakes for her grandmother to take to church events.

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“I strive to provide my customers with the utmost respect and highest quality products” When she completed her freshmen year at N.C. A&T in May of 1999, her mother told her to keep her mind busy over the summer. She registered for a Spanish class at school and a cake decorating class at Guilford Technical Community College.

For the cake decorating class, she needed to purchase additional supplies. She was planning to pay for her own supplies but her mom paid for them as a sign of support of her passion for baking. A few months after the class, she decorated both a “Winnie the Pooh and Mickey Mouse’ cake for a cake walk at her church. “My church members were surprised that I had decorated the cakes. I would do cakes for family and friends, here and there, but never serious,” she says.

After college, Pass went to work for a large food manufacturing company. She continued to bake cakes on the side when people requested them. She was even making cakes for co-workers and for different events, but confesses that she wasn’t happy on her job. “To be honest, I was absolutely miserable. I realized this about six months into it and had to find a way out. So I started praying, thinking, and searching,” she says. She started looking at culinary schools. In the fall of 2003, she heard that Johnson & Wales University was about to open a school in Charlotte. She attended an information session and was accepted into the university on the spot. She started school in September and a year later, her mother was diagnosed with Stage 4―Pancreatic Cancer. She tried to stay in school, but decided to go home to be with her mother.

Unfortunately, her mother passed away in December of 2005. “She had told me during her illness that she wanted me to finish school. Obediently, I enrolled back in school in March of 2006. I completed the program in November of 2006 with an Associate’s of Applied Sciences in Baking and Pastry Arts. My business began that summer from the encouragement of family and friends,” she says.

Pass The Cake Please! offers various sweet delights. There are cupcakes in all types of flavors including Vanilla, Chocolate, Red Velvet, Strawberry, Sweet Potato, Carrot, Lemon, Key Lime, German Chocolate, Banana Pudding, and Butterscotch.

Her most popular flavors are Red Velvet and Banana Pudding. The Butterscotch Cupcake was developed by accident and is a signature flavor of her business. It has a Butterscotch flavored cake with a Cheesecake center and topped with a Butterscotch-Maple Cream Cheese icing. She also offers Dessert Layer Cakes, Pound Cakes-(Vanilla, Lemon, Five-Flavor, Red Velvet, Key Lime and Chocolate, decorated cakes with minimal decoration, Cake Push Pops, and Cream-Cheese Brownies.

Pass says she hopes to expand and offer more brownie varieties and cookies in the near future.

Every day Pass says she is inspired to live and do her best to please God. “I desire to live in His will. I strive to provide my customers with the utmost respect and highest quality products,” proclaims Pass. She constantly acknowledges her parents having impacting her life the most. “It’s very important to create and carry out a meaningful legacy of both of them. My parents were very loving and caring people and I witnessed impeccable strength, perseverance, and amazing faith in God through them both,” she says. In business, she credits Shandi Starks (First Lady of World Victory International Christian Center) for being a great inspiration and motivator to her. “She has encouraged me from the beginning. She has been a great supporter by promoting my business and ordering cakes,” says Pass. In the meantime she will continue to do what she enjoys the most and that’s meeting the customers who have tasted her cupcakes or cakes at someone’s house or gathering and decided to place a order for themselves. She says she loves getting business this way. h

Pass The Cake Please!

Crystal Pass 336-456-6090 www.facebook.com/passthecake

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The African A School An online Educational Program rich in the cultures of Africa and the African Diaspora

fter graduating from NC A&T with a BA in History, Tonya Poole searched for ways to put her degree to use. She has always loved learning about various cultures and history. The idea for The African School came in 2010 when she realized that her daughter and other children were not being exposed to the rich cultures and histories of Africa and the African Diaspora in their schools. Tonya was alarmed to discover that outside of the typical lessons taught during Black History Month most school-age children did not learn much about topics of importance to the global African/Black community. The African School was born the following year out of the need to create opportunities for children and adults to experience what they lacked in school.

TAS is an educational program that creates learning tools and events, designed to bring children and adults into an experience with the histories and cultures of Africa and the African Diaspora. TAS seeks to demonstrate how the knowledge of our past is relevant and practical to today. In February 2011, TAS held its first workshop called Discovering Our History Through Sound, Word, & Art. This workshop was facilitated by local musicians, artists, and poets who taught African-American history through the lens of the arts.

Since its beginning, TAS has always produced workshops that focus on various topics such as the cultures of Ghana, South Africa, Jamaica, and St. Kitts, and a look at the Civil Rights and Black Power Movements. In July 2013, TAS will launch their first online curriculum titled, “Africans In America: Six Lessons About African-Americans You’ll Never Learn In School”. This online educational experience will guide students through a series of six lessons in African-American history (two lessons released each week) that are focused on three main areas: Business & Economics, Agriculture, and Hip Hop. The curriculum is geared for children between the ages of 8-13 (3rd-8th grades).

Highlights of this learning experience are: It’s Online: Allowing students to participate wherever they are, even if they’re traveling on summer vacation.

Downloadable Worksheets: Lessons can be printed if the student prefers.

Learning Journal: Participants can document what they learn into a downloadable booklet and use the info for any of their projects/homework for the upcoming school year.

Guided Experience: Very easy to follow and is designed to have a parent or teacher assist the student through the process.

No Previous Knowledge Required: It is a learning experience for both the

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young student and the parent/teacher who is following along.

Certificate of Completion: Each participant will receive a certificate acknowledging that they have finished the program.

Poole says she didn’t want TAS to be just another program where people are given a bunch of data. “I did not want people to simply walk away feeling like they knew what years Harriet Tubman was on the Underground Railroad.

I wanted them to experience the history and know that they have the same power as the people of our past that we celebrate. I want them to believe that they could be Harriet Tubman or whoever they desire to be,” she says.

Poole is inspired by what motivates anyone to create. The conditions that motivated people to create Jazz, Poole says is just as inspirational as the story behind what caused individuals to birth Hip Hop. Being able to create an environment for people to experience what they’ve never experienced is what Poole says she loves most about the TAS. “I love working with others to find creative ways share lessons with TAS participants.

Most of the time I have a general idea of what I want people to learn, but in working with others I am always amazed the wealth of knowledge there is to be shared and the many creative ways to do so,” she says. TAS promises to make connections that other traditional methods have fallen short of.

Assisting Poole with instruction for the online curriculum are Dawn Nicole Hicks Tafari. A native New Yorker, she is passionate about the arts, culture, education, and translating theory into practice. Her research interests include Black boys in public schools, Black male elementary school teachers, Hip-Hop culture’s influence on identity development, Hip-Hop feminism, critical race theory, critical race methodology, and narrative research. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Hofstra University, her Master of Arts in Teaching from The Johns Hopkins University, a post-baccalaureate certificate in Women’s and Gender Studies from The University of North Carolina Greensboro, and her Ph.D in Educational Studies with a Specialization in Cultural Studies from The University of North Carolina Greensboro. She has served as an elementary school teacher, college professor, and currently serves as a lateral entry teacher trainer and Developmental Studies Faculty at Davidson County Community College. She is also co-founder of the Greensboro Kwanzaa Collective. She does educational consulting with her husband and enjoys traveling and providing interactive, research-based workshops and curricula development for institutions around the country. Dawn lives in Greensboro, North Carolina with her amazing husband, two brilliant daughters, and two spirited dogs.

Dr. Tiffany Quaye is a native of Leakesville, Mississippi. She obtained her Ph.D. from the Department of History at UNC-Greensboro and currently serves as a Guest Lecturer at North Carolina A&T State University. In the Spring of 2012, she became the first African American to graduate with a Ph.D. in History from UNC-Greensboro and became the youngest person to ever graduate with a Ph.D. from that same program. Dr. Quaye has done extensive work on the 1979 Greensboro Massacre and has a particular focus on Post-Civil Rights activism in black working class communities. Since being at North Carolina A&T, Dr. Quaye has taught African American History, U.S. History, The Nature of Writing History, and The World Since 1945. Equally important to her professional and personal development has been her commitment to

Tonya Poole

D. Noble

Founder of The African School

making international connections and establishing herself as a world citizen through volunteering. In 2006 she lived in Ghana where she taught English as a second language, built schools, and processed local gari. Just this past year, Dr. Quaye served as the leading historian for the International Civil Rights Museum in Greensboro, North Carolina where she helped develop social studies initiatives for over 300 students in the states of North Carolina and Virginia. Additionally, Dr. Quaye has served on numerous committees dealing with the politics of Haiti, merging the gap between Africans and African Americans, and current problems of the “color line.”

In her spare time, she volunteers tirelessly for the Alzheimer’s Association where she has helped to raise nearly $10,000 over the past nine years.

Dr. Quaye received her Bachelors Degree from Florida A&M University in African American Studies and her Masters Degree from UNC-Charlotte in History. She is the mother of one daughter.

D. Noble is an activist, scholar and nationally renowned spoken word artist. He earned his Masters of Arts in English and African American Literature from North Carolina A&T State University where he graduated as a Wadaran L. Kennedy Scholar in May 2012. He currently serves as an adjunct professor in the African American Studies department at UNC Greensboro and plans on pursuing a doctoral degree in fall 2014 in either Literature or American Studies. His research interests include Marxism, Critical Race Theory, African American Literature, Popular Culture and Hip Hop Studies. His work has been published in esteemed scholarly journals like The African American Review, The Journal of Pan African Studies and The Journal of Black Masculinity. h

To enroll in the African School’s online program for July 2013, please visit www.theafricanschool.com

Dr. Dawn Nicole Hicks Tafari HuamiMagazine.com

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1025 Homeland Avenue Greensboro, NC 27405 (336)333-3332 www.ladyshaes.com

Currently Seeking Professionl Stylists - Apply With-In

**NEW CLIENT SPECIAL**

40% off First Visit

Testimonial

Valid through 07/15/13 - 9/15/13

First Lady, Edna Brooks of Mount Zion Baptist Church

“It’s absolutely wonderful to have a place of beauty that enhances the beauty of every person walking through the door seeking service. That describes Lady Shae’s Salon. The atmosphere is relaxing and peaceful, so much so, I get a great hair style and a much needed nap under the dryer.

Shae is continuously looking for ways to improve on what is already very good. I thank God for such an awesome salon.”

The Professional

Barber

& RETAIL

Cosmetologist Business Forum

SALON

At its Best

Client Perspective

As salon customers it seems, in many aspects, that we tend to discount the faculty and, arguably, the necessity of buying retail from our local salon. Yes, it is much easier to purchase from the masses (aka: beauty supply chains), but by doing so we impede on the goal that we set out to achieve from the start: looking like a million bucks and having our look last well beyond the seemingly 1-month expiration date we get with large supply stores. We must explore beyond our average scope of buying retail and consider that buying from our stylist doesn’t have to stop at our “appointment” but that we can further utilize the talents & strengths of our salons by buying at any time – during business hours of course! During this segment, we will explore reasons you should consider purchasing from your local salon and the benefits you are likely to gain as a result.

Why should you buy salon products from your local salon?

The saying goes “If it’s not broken, don’t fix it!” You should also apply this adage whenever you choose to buy retail from your salon/barber professional. You must keep in mind that though beauty supply chains carry a bulk of products, only your stylist can proactively guide the structure & timeless quality you seek to attain. The knowledge that your stylist can offer instantly puts you ahead of the game because of their years of salon experience. Not only does your choice to buy retail from your salon give you a one-up on looking your best, it also provides added support for your professional’s business. Allow what your stylist can do work for you. By investing in the purchase of in-salon products, you achieve the double value of contributing to your and your salon’s success.

What are some pros & cons to buying retail direct from your stylist?

Pros to buying products direct from your styling professional include, most importantly, that your stylist is privy to your ongoing salon care regimen. Additionally, as a result of any specialized care, your salon is more likely to carry specific brands that are better suited to meet your needs. Some cons to buying direct center around the likelihood that salon brands may be more expensive than supply chains.

Also, due to storage and other protocol, local salons may be limited on product stock. Your position as a client is to aide your salon by expressing feedback on any lack of brand items and also understanding limitations associated with salons & retail stock.

As a client, what products should you request that your salon carry?

As clients, we tend to want it all! We are paying for an exceptional service that will render immediate & lasting results. However, like most things in life, hair & hygiene require just as much tedious attention. As clients we must take the time to educate ourselves concerning our salon house. Before we request that our salon/barber professional carry particular retail products, we need to take inventory of our salon’s clientele. Is the salon population made up largely of one group of people? If not, what service requests appear to be the most popular?

Is your salon staffed by one person or ten? You must take all these conditions into account before expressing concerns or requests for a wide range of retail products. Such factors help determine whether your salon will carry only the styling basics or the works. As a client, you represent the other piece to the salon puzzle. Provide feedback and give patience.

How do you best contribute your input when being properly matched with the right product?

There are those times as clients that we become a little too involved or too lax when it comes to seeking out “the best” product for our salon care. To each spectrum of clients, might we recommend that you neutralize your ego, or lack thereof, and listen to your styling professional?

More often than not, your care professional has more in-depth knowledge of a product’s effectiveness than you. And if you disagree about a product, do so with an open mind before completely discrediting your professional’s expertise. Quite possibly they may offer a more adequate alternative to suit your needs. As customers we know what look we want to achieve, but it takes exercising clear communication to express those sentiments. Offer explanations as to why you would like to try a product. Ask how a product may enhance or detract from your desired look. Care products have varied outcomes depending on hair/body types. What works for one may not work for another.

Not only do we look differently but we also act differently. Share more about your daily schedule. A couch potato may be able to use a specific product, but that same item will prove deficient for a tri-athlete. Be quick to listen and slow to speak. As much as you would like to share, practice allowing that same amount of time to heed care suggestions & instructions. Our jobs as clients are to contribute more and less concerning feedback & input within the scope of our client-professional partnership.

For The Salon Professional As with any service, salon & barber retail is no different. From one end of the spectrum to the other, the question that each of us should be able to answer without hesitation is “Why should I buy from you?” How do we respond to that question? Simple. By knowing our products and our clients! Throughout this forum, we will dive into the “whys” and the art of promoting retail sales within the salon/barber industry. It is of great importance to realize that without promoting our products, we stunt our professional growth and limit the enduring quality that our clients seek and deserve. So without further ado, let us explore some of the pressing reasons to promote your services via retail sales.

Why should clients purchase retail products from you, and what expertise should you offer?

The most prominent reasons to purchase from you should be because of your established relationship with your client in recognizing their salon/ barber needs, as well as your professional standards. As a salon professional, you must be knowledgeable of your retail products. This includes the product’s ingredients, any limitations connected with its use, and most certainly how the product may help or hurt in your client’s salon needs.

Of great importance is to believe in your products. If you believe in your product, you are more likely to recommend its use. Educate your client on products. Share in reading labels, answering questions, and providing step-by-step usage instructions. Your client should be informed to know how the product should feel and what it does. You are the teacher - remain ready to share your knowledge.

What are some of the pros and cons of selling in-house?

Some pros in selling retail include that products sold equal immediate revenue for your business. Additionally, the products used represent those sold to rooted clients so there is no question of whether the product is the right fit. Should clients express concern, you are promptly available to clear up any confusion. Some retail cons include having to hone your customer service skills and being able to appease your clients should the product’s effects prove ineffective or cause damage. Another drawback encompasses your remaining diligent to study your products in establishing which prove best for your spectrum of clients. There is always a cost to consider. Weigh yours and determine how to move forward in your business.

How will you benefit from retail sales?

Each time you provide a service, you benefit from your unique skills & talents. Though your clients make up a great percentage of your business, you alone set the mark by investing in these skills. Exhibit appealing product placement. Study products and research ingredients during downtime. Know your stuff! Be prepared to answer questions. If your expectations are low, your business will match. You will only gain what you put in! With the hustle & bustle that comes with a loaded schedule, it is also important to celebrate client loyalty. Keep portion cups in stock & provide product samples. Ask for client feedback. Offer money-back guarantees or other reasonable return methods. Schedule give-aways and birthday gift bags. As you show that you value your clients, and thus your business, the benefits you experience will far outweigh up-front investments. The heart of selling retail is all about trust. Spending that extra time with clients fosters trust and a strengthened client-professional relationship. Your benefits will come in the form of increased clientele, business expansion and constant revenue. From there, the sky is the limit as to how you further invest in your skills, financial endeavors, and life goals.

What products should you offer?

Not being informed of what products to offer in your salon immediately puts you at a loss! You must keep educated in order to anticipate client needs. No one client is the same. Although you may find a variation in client requests, you must also establish a retail strategy to most effectively meet and guide individual musts. And most assuredly, sell only the products you believe in and use! Stay educated. Know your products. Anticipate client needs.

Information provided by Kotur Kuz Salon, Masterminds Design Studio, Perfections Beauty & Barber Lounge, The Lee Mykel Hair Studio, Lady Shae’s Hair Salon, Prosperity Styles Salon, Next Level Barbershop, and Heads Up Barbershop

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ESTEEM A Total Transformation Donna Graves Nealy, Certified Fitness Instructor

By Terry L. Watson Photos by Donna Graves Nealy

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he is a wife, mother of four adult children and grandmother of six (with one on the way). She has a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and a Master of Science in Sport Studies both from High Point University. She is currently pursuing her Ph.D. in Human Services, specializing in Social and Community Services from Capella University.

Besides all of her accomplishments and achievements, Donna Graves Nealy is more determined to be fit―both physically, mentally, and spiritually.

Nealy has obtained Certification in Fitness training from the International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA), Certification in Nutrition Consultation, Certification in PraiseMoves (the Christian Alternative to Yoga), Certificate in Eating God’s Way, and she’s also a licensed minister and the Director of the Forever Young Health Ministry at Benaja Mt. Zion Holiness Church of God, Inc..

Additionally, she carries a CPR and AED certification.

Nealy has been training since 2006, and has been a certified fitness instructor since 2009. ESTEEM is a non-profit wellness program, whose focus is to work with the physical, but also the mental and spiritual. Nealy also takes the holistic route in changing lifestyles. “Understanding nutrition, knowledge about natural supplements and meditation are all taught by ESTEEM,” she says.

Many of her services are geared towards women, men and families but the main target population is women. Her rates vary depending upon the specific needs and desires, but are extremely affordable and below the market average.

Nealy says she wants everyone that needs assistance to have the opportunity to acquire experienced, knowledgeable help without taxing the finances of the individual. “We are not all about weight loss. Our main concern is having a healthy lifestyle and with that comes weight loss.

ESTEEM offers a 90 day wellness-intervention program which offers a lifestyle change coach for 90 days or 12 weeks. The coach monitors your eating, teaches you on nutrition, helps you understand the connection between the spiritual, mental and physical. It also helps you eliminate the need for prescription medications, and/or preventive measures or reverse medical issues. Nealy has seen great success with this particilar program backed by several testimonials from women, men and couples who have gone through the program and succeeded with their doctors eleminating thier treatments for cholestrol, high blood pressure, and diabetes. “Others have reported the alleviation of lower back issues along with having knee issues reversed and the list goes on,” she says.

ESTEEM promotes a line of natural supplements called Healthyfix. It supports hair, joints, appetite suppresents, cholesterol, energy and more. ESTEEM also promotes Jinsaessentials, Essanteorganics and several products in the “myitworks” line. “I am very careful about the supplements or products we promote because there are so many hidden unnatural ingredients in the products. We really try to keep everything natural and holistic,” says Nealy.

Additionally, she offers personal training, group exercise, couples exercise, nutrition classes, and annual wellness programs for churches, and PraiseMoves classes, which is the Christian alternative to Yoga. The difference is the moves. Some are the same, but many postures in PraiseMoves are not included with the Yoga regimen, and the names have been changed to reference biblical scriptures. PraiseMoves allows a person to meditate on the word of God and work and stretch the muscles all at the same time. Currently, Nealy is the only Certified PraiseMoves instructor in North Carolina and she hopes to promote it more dilegently in the future.

Nealy says she loves servicing those that need help. “The ability to have a part in lives being changed for the better is absolutely awesome. I love seeing lives, bodies, eating habits and medical conditions transformed right before my eyes,” Nealy says. “I find inspiration in knowing that this is the path God placed me on and I have the ability to move forward in the call. This is a ministry first and business second,” she says. h

Donna Graves Nealy, MS CFT CNC CPI ESTEEM, A Total Transformation www.esteem-att.com 336-345-3507

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“I love seeing lives, bodies, eating habits and medical conditions transformed right before my eyes�

Lashawn, Keva, Zjya, & Janelle

Lupus Living, laughing, and learning how to live with

By Tonya Dixon Photos by Still Shots Photography

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ore than 1.5 million Americans live with lupus; 5 million worldwide. Ninety percent of people diagnosed with lupus are women.

Of that percentage, women of color are two to three times more likely to be affected. Lupus is an auto immune disease. It can affect and damage nearly any part of the body, especially the skin, joints, blood and kidneys. With lupus, the body’s own immune system is actually attacking itself. The disease confuses the body’s normal, disease-fighting antibodies into thinking the good antibodies are foreign invaders and creates other antibodies that actually attack and destroy healthy ones which in turn causes pain and damage throughout the body.

Lupus comes in four major forms. Systemic Lupus is the most common form and is not limited to affecting a certain area of the body. Cutaneous Lupus is limited to the skin. Drug-induced Lupus is a lupus-like disease caused by certain prescription drugs and usually disappears after medication is stopped. Neonatal Lupus is rare and affects infants born to women having lupus; however symptoms usually disappear after several months with no lasting effects. It is important to note no two cases of lupus are identical and symptoms vary from person to person. Symptoms may include (but are not limited to) extreme fatigue and tiredness, headaches, painful or swollen joints, fever, anemia (low numbers of red blood cells or hemoglobin, or low total blood volume), swelling (edema) in extremeties and/or around eyes, pain in chest on deep breathing (pleurisy), butterflyshaped rash across cheeks and nose sun- or light-sensitivity (photosensitivity), hair loss, abnormal blood clotting, fingers turning white and/or blue when cold (Raynaud’s phenomenon), and mouth or nose ulcers.

Lupus is a manageable disease, but awareness is extremely low, especially within the African American community even though African Americans are astronomically, disproportionately affected by the disease. The following individuals are not only living with Lupus, but are thriving and overcoming the many obstacles they face from the disease on a daily basis. Jenelle Strickland, better known as, The Princess of Poetry, is a performance poet. She produces the longest running poetry show in the triad area—Late Night Lyrics, is a published poet, the reigning National Most Influential Poet of the Year, a mother of four, a human resources professional, founder of The Princess of Poetry Entertainment Group, a burgeoning graphic artist and she has Systemic Lupus. She is much more than her illness.

Strickland began having sudden and seemingly unrelated health problems. It all began with her blood pressure rising to stroke level for no apparent reason. She developed acute asthma, having never experienced any major respiratory problems before; her joints began to hurt and her body began to swell. At the same time she began to experience overwhelming exhaustion to the point of lethargy. She even noticed she was becoming more and more forgetful. There was unexplained weight gain and swelling in her lungs. At 43 years old, she started thinking she was simply getting old and her body was letting her know it. Even her doctors were stumped. They all attempted to diagnose her individual symptoms instead of viewing them all as symptoms of one illness. Finally, after becoming fed up with constant sickness and pain she suggested her doctor consider testing her for lupus. After two years of battling mysterious illnesses and bouts with various sickness, Strickland was diagnosed with lupus in September 2012. Her diagnosis provided a concrete answer to all the mystery surrounding her problems, but it didn’t knock her off balance or her course.

“The doctor asked me was I upset, I said no,” she said. “He asked me, why not? I said I’m a three times cancer survivor. If this is the next thing I’ve already been through the worst part of my life. I almost died of cancer in 2009. I said this can’t be worse than or as bad as that.”

The strength and optimism that she displays is real and genuine and mind boggling. Her determination not to allow lupus to overtake her life is admirable and encouraging. Strickland’s upbeat personality belies the many issues she faces on a regular basis, but it’s all by design. “Truthfully, it’s not easy to live with lupus because you can never tell when a flare up is coming. Lupus is a disease where a flare can come at any time for any reason and it can last any period of time. Symptoms come and go. It’s very unpredictable. You have ups and downs. There is an emotional roller coaster, but you have to encourage yourself. Regardless of what happens, I’m going to use every moment to live and do something productive and positive in my life. So when they told me I had lupus I said well lupus should just get ready to get in line with everything else that’s going on in my life, because I have a schedule to keep and things to do.”

Keep moving to keep moving. It’s something Strickland lives by every day; literally and figuratively. She has taken her love for poetry and performance and uses it as a platform to educate the community about lupus. Gracefully, she incorporates information and entertainment. Every fourth Friday night of each month at A Taste of Soul she produces Late Night Lyrics where she along with other artists perform original work Continued on the next page

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Keva & Kjya

produced through her own company. It’s just another subtle reminder that life still goes on even in the midst of unfavorable situations and circumstances.

Strickland is also an active member of the Purple Prayers, a faith-based foundation for lupus survivors and supporters. The group stands on the premise that lupus is a diagnosis, not a lifestyle. “I believe God for total and complete healing,” she says. “This is only temporary, but while I’m in it I’m trying my best to utilize it for something positive.”

Keva Brooks Napper has been dealing with lupus for over 10 years. She was diagnosed in 2003 and came frighteningly close to death in 2004 after having several grand mal seizures in one day, and discovering blood clots on her brain which caused her to have a stroke. She miraculously walked away from the hospital after only two weeks with no outward signs of hurt or harm and no need for rehabilitation. The entire life-altering episode was an effect of the lupus in her body.

Everything about Napper’s form of lupus was considered rare. Even her doctors said she was a mess. Having come close to death and surprising her doctors, she understands that God is the source of her survival and she refuses to be burdened down by pessimistic doctors regarding her situation. “Had it not been for my mental state I would have been dead,” she says. “I surprise my doctors, especially if I have to go to an urgent care. The doctors see all the medicine I’m on, look at my medical history and say ‘but you’re so young and this is so rare.’ I just say I’m a rare individual. I have to flip it on them. I won’t allow them to make me depressed. I have to take my situation and make the best of it, because I’m not about to die.”

Napper is very well educated about lupus. She rattles off statistics and various facts and can explain the complexity of the disease in such a way even a child could understand. More importantly, she recognizes the need for more support for people battling lupus every day. So in 2011, she founded Beautiful Butterflies, Inc. She started the nonprofit because there wasn’t an organization that she felt educated, provided support and celebrated life. She didn’t see examples of herself at other meetings. They didn’t promote activities of health and wellbeing and they certainly were not being promoted throughout her community. “Because I was diagnosed with lupus didn’t mean I was a foot away from the grave,” she says. Professionally I’m an educator, so if statistics say lupus is three times more common in African American women and it is minorities who mainly suffer from it then why are we the least educated about it? If I have to deal with this and I can use my voice to talk about everything else then why can’t I lift my voice as a spokesperson for what is affecting me and my community? No one else is standing up for it. If I have to make a change it may as well be a positive one.”

“Had it not been for my mental state I would have been dead. I have to take my situation and make the best of it, because I’m not about to die.”

Keva Napper “I thought my life would change, but it didn’t really. I just have to take my medicine every day. I can still do pretty much the same things.”

Zjya Westbrook 36

The changes that Beautiful Butterflies has already made are remarkable. One of the most important and overriding objectives of the foundation is to bring awareness to a community of minorities that is largely unaware of a disease that targets them. Beautiful Butterflies endeavors to support by addressing the whole man. There are monthly meetings like most other groups but Beautiful Butterflies takes it a step further and brings in speakers to address issues associated with lupus such as Nephrologists, nutritionists and physical therapists. Activity classes are offered and as well as consistent “how to” sessions, like how to properly apply for disability. The group even has a strategic partnership with The Social Emotional Learning Group (S.E.L.). Support and services are not just for lupus survivors but members of support systems, as well as individuals suffering from other “invisible” diseases like lupus. Ultimately Beautiful Butterflies participants are there for each other to support uplift and encourage. Napper says, “While we can’t eradicate the illness itself we can help eradicate some of the loneliness and uncertainty you may feel.”

Of all lupus cases, men account for only 10 percent. LaShawn “Soloh” Millner is one of those men. There is a misconception that lupus is a woman’s disease.

Millner knows that fact all too well. When he first divulged his lupus diagnosis with friends and family he was inundated with the notion that lupus discriminated against men and did not affect them. “The first thing people would say was that it was a woman’s disease. I got that all the time,” he says.

In February of 2013, Millner, a local artist, says he remembers performing during a show and realized something wasn’t right. He just didn’t have the energy for his usual high octane performance and delivery. While he would normally mingle with the crowd during the break, he found himself in his car going to sleep. Over the course of the next few days he gained 40 pounds. He literally no longer felt

LaShawn & Jenelle

comfortable in his own skin. By the time he went to the doctor his protein levels were so high they couldn’t even be measured. All of his labs were coming back with disturbing results. He was sent to a Nephrologist for a biopsy of his kidney. More tests were run and the results were fast tracked.

Millner says he knew something was wrong because of the hurried pace of the medical staff. On April 30, 2013 all signs indicated he had lupus. “Usually it takes people a long time to figure out what it is, but I just thank God they figured it out,” he says. “It just worked like clockwork. Everything moved so quickly. Within two weeks I was diagnosed and placed on a medication regimen. It was a blessing, but it was scary at the same time.

Millner didn’t quite know how to process his diagnosis. His feelings ran the gamut from defeat to shock to worry to courage and ownership.

Recently married with a baby on the way, he knew he had people depending on him. After throwing a two-day pity party he dusted himself off and got himself together. Just recently diagnosed with lupus, Millner is beginning to understand he is not defined by his illness. He just says it is what it is. He hasn’t been too quick to join any support groups just yet, but realizes it will probably be a good idea in the near future. He has made some changes to decrease stress in his life, but he is determined to return to those things he enjoys doing through time and patience as his body allows. “I understand now I have to make a lifestyle change for me and my family,” he says. It’s all about staying healthy, eating the right things, doing the right things and making sure to keep stress out of my life. That’s what I’m working through.”

Fourteen year old Zjya Westbrook has always played lots of team sports.

From softball to basketball to cheerleading; she has always been very active.

So she wasn’t too alarmed when she began having joint pain and swelling in her fingers, and toes. Her pain began to be constant. When she played sports she would be sore and tire, but she would just dismiss it and take some pain medicine.

Zjya’s mother thought it had something to do with her daughter’s diet— too much salt and sugar. They began to change it but the pain refused to subside. Following several doctor visits and many tests Zjya and her mother found out she had lupus. Both were shocked and surprised at the unexpected diagnosis. “At first I was sad,” says Zjya. “I thought my life would change, but it didn’t really. I just have to take my medicine every day. I can still do pretty much the same things.” Nevertheless, mom wasn’t immediately as optimistic. She says she was devastated. She feels the pain of having to watch her teenage daughter take large amounts of medicine including injections and watch hair fall out. It’s often hard for parents to deal with a disease, especially one like lupus, knowing there isn’t much relief they can offer their child. But Mrs. Westbrook is learning her daughter is much stronger than she knew and she couldn’t be any prouder. “It’s a hard road to travel,” she says. “I know there are times Zjya is stressed and hurting but she doesn’t show it. She will tell you but she won’t show you how much it hurts. She just deals with it. She’s very strong.”

“It’s all about staying healthy, eating the right things, doing the right things and making sure to keep stress out of my life. That’s what I’m working through.”

LaShawn Millner “When they told me I had lupus I said well lupus should just get ready to get in line with everything else that’s going on in my life, because I have a schedule to keep and things to do.”

Jenelle Strickland

Not only is Zjya strong when it comes to managing her lupus, but the aspiring nurse practitioner is strong in school as well. Last year she was her class president at The Academy at Lincoln. She is currently attending The UNCG Middle College and consistently makes the A/B honor roll. Zjya is determined her diagnosis will never prevent her from accomplishing her dreams. “It was hard at first, but you will start to get used to it. You won’t even think about it as much,” she says. “I watch how long I stay in the sun and those things. Sometimes it makes me feel a little limited because I can’t do as much as I used to but I’ve learned how to deal with it. If my stomach is going to hurt then it’s just going to hurt. I just deal with it.”

Zjya is able to deal with it from the overwhelming support she receives from family and friends as well as a lupus support group she attends when she has the time. Even in the midst of being diagnosed with lupus both she and her mother are grateful to God that her flare ups, and symptoms are not as bad as they could be. At such a young age and dealing with such a big disease Zjya’s quite strength is an example that no matter what comes more enjoyable life is yet to be lived. h

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Ayanna-Kai Cross Success with Empower Network

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July/August 2013

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By Terry L. Watson Photos by Still Shots Photography

A

yanna-Kai Cross is a social media consultant that specializes in internet marketing. She has built a successful career in marketing while helping others earn an income online. Once burned by corporate America she decided to make her own economy by forming her very own company, AC Marketing Group. Its primary purpose is to help ordinary people find success online with little to no experience.

When she moved to Greensboro 12 years ago, she immediately found a job. During that time the job market was better, companies were hiring and the salaries were great. In her first year, Cross enjoyed a salary of 60k. Life was awesome, but as a young woman she didn’t have great money managing skills. “My second year, the company I worked for outsourced the division that I was working in to India. With just a 30 day notice, I had to downsize my life to an unemployment income,” she says.

Needless to say, she was looking for a “plan B”.

Her “plan B” was network marketing. Initially, Cross says she saw little to no growth. It wasn’t until last year when she joined Empower Network that things started to turn around. “Everything has been a blur since then,” she says. Empower Network is an internet marketing training company that teaches people how to get massive results in any business without any of the hassles that are normally associated with a home business. It has an affiliate marketing program with an aggressive 100% commission structure that allows people with no experience to reach success.

“It gives me great joy to help others; but especially those who may have had hardships like me. We are taught at a very young age to go to school, get an education and then get a job and become successful. That 40/40 plan doesn’t always work,” she says. “I learned that most successful people work for themselves and not others. I also learned that most millionaires are entrepreneurs and that a good majority of them come from the network marketing/internet marketing world”.

Cross says she has been on both ends of the spectrum in her life. She has been the individual where jobs have been cut resulting in temporary homelessness. “Its not a pretty place and I want to do all that I can to prevent others from going down that path,” Cross says. Empower Network has been a lifesaver both personally and professionally. Not only is she able to earn an income, but she has been exposed to advanced marketing skills that can be taught to others or be applied in other endeavors. “Its a win-win for me, my family, and others who have been introduced to it,” she explains.

Being an entrepreneur isn’t always easy, Cross asserts. She believes that business owners get hit harder than most because they are equipped to take it. “When life happens, we have to lean on the word of God, choose an accountability partner and get a mentor,” she says. She has made it through her most difficult times by sustaining a belief system. Her belief in God propels her forward each day. “I truly believe that God led me to EN and her sponsor, who also shares a story similar to mine,” she says. “The Lord puts people in your path to remind you of three things.

He brought us to it, that we aren’t the only ones and that he will bring us through it,” she says. Those are the things that Cross says inspires her each day. “If He has done it once, he can and will do it again so I am sharing my testimony with as many people as possible,” she says.

If you are interested in earning an income online or even a little bit curious, please visit www.earnbiggerpaychecks.com and see how she and others are cashing in on internet marketing secrets with little to no experience. Cross says she only spent $25 to get started and it literally changed her life. She is currently in the process of starting a non-profit organization called, Beautiful Flowers, to aid Single Moms with the knowledge and resources to become entrepreneurs. h

For more information about Empower Network and her team, please contact Ayanna-Kai Cross www.ayannakcross.com 336.303.8005

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MattressCleaner, GOGreener, Round Cheaper Dont Throw Your Mattress Away... Recycle it!

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attress Go Round is a mattress manufacturing company based in Greensboro, N.C. that specializes in college dorm and residential restorations. They deliver factory-fresh and hygienic new and refurbished mattresses, with all-new components. Their refurbished mattresses contain all new fillers and covers, and re-use only strictly sanitized inner springs, composed of 312-coil count Bonnel inner springs with 13-gauge coil wire, and a 6-gauge border wire.

MGR is lead by Robert Savino. He got his start as a successful business man and entrepreneur as a young man in New Jersey. He had a very fast paced way of doing business and has survived by never letting a good opportunity pass him. He is also recognized for his ability to see a problem and unconventionally execute solutions.

In 2009, while mentoring students at the University of North Carolina-Greensboro’s Bryan School of Business in dorm room design, Savino says one question seemed to constantly arise; What about the mattress’s and what should we do with them?

Intrigued, Savino began to research and applied his very own brand of innovations. With several bouts of trial and error, the savvy Savino found a solution. His answer was Mattress Go Round.

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Mattresses create a huge problem for landfills. They do not decompose well and take up valuable space (an average of 23 cubic feet per mattress). They are not compactible and the innersprings get wound up in the axles of landfill equipment.

Increasingly, landfill operators are charging higher tipping fees for mattresses, or banning them outright. MGR recycles or reuses all of the components of old mattresses and has proven to be the common-sense solution to a big and growing problem.

MGR employs a unique combination of manufacturing and recycling. They produce sustainable mattresses for less. Their patented process takes the pressure off landfills and reduces the carbon footprint left by traditional methods. They have repurposed the abandoned Cone Mills textile facility as their factory and utilize sustainable processes whenever possible. They are also a partner of Welfare Reform Liaison Project, a Greensboro-based welfare-to-work agency, which means that we employ the previously unemployable.

Eugene Fewell of the Upholstery Doctor has partnered with MGR, which adds additional recycling capabilities. Located in the same industrial lot, Fewell specialities are bringing life back to old and damaged furniture. “Nothing is more beautiful than taking a badly damaged item and rescuing it. Watching it being restored, layer by layer, to its original or even better condition is what makes my job all worth it,” he says. He is able to recycle old furniture by recovering it with new fabrics, leathers and cushions. “Whatever the costumer needs to make the furniture look better than new,” he says.

Together, MGR and Fewell are able to provide college and universities with restored furniture and mattresses, which in turn saves the schools thousands of dollars they would otherwise have spent on new items. They are also sparing land fills of material that would otherwise be discarded. Contact MGR or Fewell today to purchase your h next mattress or piece of furniture. New, but yet restored and recycled.

Mattress Go Round 1601-A Yanceyville Street Greensboro, NC 27405 (336) 676-4646 www.mattressgoround.com The Upholstery Doctor (336)314-9027 upholstery_doctor@yahoo.com

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Continued from page 17 not die. Again, he got himself together, got back on his feet and went back to what was familiar—hard work. His schedule included work, dialysis treatments, sleep, more dialysis treatments and more work. Throughout this time he met and married his wife of 27 years, who has stood by his side during the best and worst times. Everyday hasn’t been the greatest but he says it hasn’t been the worst either. No matter what, life included dialysis.

More and more the strain of being on dialysis for such an extended amount of time began to wear on other parts of his body. Raleigh started having severe back pain. The discomfort was so severe that he had to have back surgery. Two toes were amputated; he broke his back while lying in bed and didn’t even know it; he endured major stomach problems; and even cracked every bone in his neck paralyzing him from the waist down for a period of time requiring him to learn to walk again. He required 24 hour assistance.

Several times he would be struck with another illness before he completed rehabilitation from the first.

It got to the point where he was having some type of surgery every year.

but sleep and there were times in which he wasn’t even aware and cognizant of his surroundings. It only took one examination for his doctor to know there was no other choice but to amputate both his legs.

The shock was astounding, but he and his wife prayed about it and moved forward with the surgery. It was a success yet dialysis was still a constant and consistent part of his life; but Raleigh says it’s just another part of his life. “I have a whole lot of family support,” he says. “You have to have that family support or somebody backing you. That gives you more courage to do anything. I have plenty of support.

Once you get that you can get through anything.”

Through it all Raleigh says it has been the grace of God that has kept him alive.

Whenever there was a need he knows it was God that provided and made a way. “God has been so good to us,” he says. “The doctor would say you’re going to be in a wheel chair, do you have a ramp?

The answer was no, but by the time I would get home the ramp would be there. I don’t know how but that’s just how good God has been and I can’t really say anything else but that.”

The doctor’s didn’t even understand what was happening. Life was difficult, but his resolve to live and succeed was always stronger. “All I can tell you is this is all god,” he says. “I give him praise every day because if it wasn’t for Him I know where I would be. I certainly wouldn’t be right here. And my wife has been on spot. I don’t know any other woman that would stay and do all she does. My wife has done more than anyone I know; even the hospital. There’s nothing I wouldn’t take for her.

Shoot me first before you do anything to her. I’d take a bullet for her.”

Following a brief hiatus in major health issues another problem arose. Raleigh developed sores on his feet that wouldn’t seem to heal. Doctors described a medicated cream, but it made his heels too soft and susceptible to breaks in his skin. Consequently, his heels, feet and legs became infected. The infection was so intense it began to affect his personality and mental stability. There were times he did nothing

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Despite everything that has happened, Purcel Raleigh is not sitting idly by waiting to die or waiting for another health scare.

He is living his life to the fullest. He says it’s not about the issue; rather it’s about how you deal with the issue.

“It’s a mind thing,” he says. “Get some support behind you.

You can live on dialysis.

Kidney disease is bad, but look at me; I’ve been on it for 32 years and praise God I’m still here. I’m still going and I plan on being here another 32 years.”

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2nd Annual

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Cookout M

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Pictures provided by Whoshotya Photography & Teri Johnson

Festival Park - June 15th, 2013 - Greensboro, NC

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Cutest Baby Photo Contest Addison Barnes Daughter of Keisha and Terrence Barnes

Photo by Still Shots Photography

To enter your child’s picture into the Huami Magazine Cutest Baby Photo Contest please send a e-mail to mykelmedia@yahoo.comm

By Terry L. Watson Photo by Mykel Media Company

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emorial Planning Associates, LLC is an event planning company that specializes in memorial service planning. Clients utilize them to plan memorial service, celebration of life and remembrance gathering or even a party in lieu of a traditional funeral. The company focuses on coordination activities, “like a wedding planner, but in the funeral industry”.

The company was founded in 2011 by Gloria Alston after her husband Darryl died. He had no life insurance and financial resources were somewhat of an issue, but Alston relied on her skills of project management to plan her husband’s program with the help of friends.

While planning the service, she contacted a local funeral home to determine pricing for a funeral car to transport them to and from the church and back; the quote she was given was $700. Alston says she was shocked at the cost of services she needed to plan such a simple event. “I only needed someone to drive, line up and conduct the procession, and I felt they were taking advantage of the situation,” she says. Thankfully, common sense prevailed, and she hired an independent limousine driver, and decided on a line up and eventual order for the service.

The service was held at a church where she worshipped. She was allowed to use the sanctuary, but it didn’t have a hospitality committee. Alston says the church was not able to offer guidance with the memorial service because none had ever been held there before, nor did it offer a place to hold a reception or repast. Because of this, Alston decided to host her family and friends at her home and called on friends who had catering, food preparation, and lawn care experiences to help implement her plan. She received great feedback from several family and friends on how well the services were planned and conducted. Soon after, a friend of her family called for help with writing the obituary of her mother, who was near death. That meeting Alston says, proved to be pivotal. “I was honored that someone would seek out my services to help them and asked me to pray with her mother and the family. I knew then that my purpose and ministry were realized,” Alston said.

Alston is a mother of two teenagers. She returned to Guilford County in 2006 with her family, after having lived in the Washington, D.C. metro area for 18 years. She is a graduate of James B. Dudley High School and attended North Carolina A&T State University. After high school and throughout her years at NC A&T, she worked for IBM, where she met her late husband Darryl T. Alston.

She says one of her goals is to service her clients with excellence, while considering the most economical way to support the customer.

“I don’t want to make anyone feel that they have not received exceptional value for their money. A well planned and implemented service is our goal - and so is a good value for the consumer,” she says. Some of the services she provides is Obituary Writing, Program Design, Slideshow/DVD Tribute, Memorial Service Planning, Repast/ Reception Coordination, and other support services.

Gloria S. Alston Owner/President

(336) 419-0775 Email: gloria@memorialplanningassociates.com Web: www.memorialplanningassociates.com

“I love it when I help someone who had no idea where to start or how to plan a loving and memorable service. I also love that I am able to help them do this for a fraction of the normal industry costs,” says Alston. Even when a funeral is planned, she is able to provide a well-written, error free program -- handling every aspect from information gathering to delivery of the final product to the church or funeral home. She is inspired by God and her children and believes her business is a gift and purpose that He revealed to her during a crucial phase in her life. She is also inspired by her clients to learn and share other ways to do her very best while easing the burden for them during a very difficult time. h

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Sean Vestal BESPOKE ALFA Affordble Luxury For All be·spoke /biˈspōk/ Adjective: (of goods, esp. clothing) Made to order: “a bespoke suit”. (of a trader) Making such goods: “bespoke tailors”.

By Terry L. Watson Photos by Sean Vestal

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espoke Alfa became a part of the ALFA family at the end of 2012.

Lead by Boris and Patrick Kodjoe, the World of ALFA stands for ‘Affordable Luxury for All’. As the voice of Bespoke Alfa, Sean Vestal provides custom-tailored clothing at a fraction of the normal cost to have a such service.

Most people aren’t aware of the options they have for custom clothing and see it as unaffordable. Bespoke is hoping to change that mindset by providing clothing that fits your budget and keeps you looking sharp.

The typical cost for someone to have custom tailored suit can be in the neighborhood of $3,000. A custom tailored shirt can cost at least $180. Vestal says Bespoke offers equal craftsmanship and quality while meeting the needs of its clients.

The combination of efficient, cost effective custom handcrafting and non-traditional distribution methods, along with their avoidance of expenditures for big advertising campaigns, Alfa is able to offer outstanding quality at universally affordable prices. While most big brands produce in selected regions to increase cost effectiveness, they also have to mark up the prices to make up for store distribution costs and advertising/marketing campaigns. Alfa passes the savings to the customer. “Our unique internal infrastructure is the key to the Alfa revolution,” Vestal

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explains.

Some of their products include custom tailored, handcrafted men’s and women’s suits, custom tailored, handcrafted men’s and women’s shirts and blouses as well as custom tailored jeans. “We offer these things in virtually unlimited style choice elements, and in a variety of fabrics,” he says. With shirts, one can customize not only fit and fabric, but also cuff and collar style, button color, fabric color and more.

Alfa takes pride in making people look their best, while maintaining their individuality.

“When you look good, you feel good,” says Vestal. ALFA clothing can be tailored for all sizes, shapes and styles. NBA superstars Shaquille O’Neal, Charles Barkley and Kenny Smith have worn suits designed by Alfa. Their products have also been featured on BET’s Real Husbands of Hollywood and Rip the Runway 2013.

All design configuration options are included in the price. The fabric is the sole determining factor in the price of your product, all design element choices and options (collars, cuffs, button color, contrast fabrics and everything else) are included in the revolutionary price.

Personalization is an integral part of customtailoring, and it’s also provided at no additional cost. They use fabrics from controlled external woven fabric suppliers. For detailed fabric descriptions and high-resolution fabric images, please refer to their fabrics section on their interactive 3D product design pages online.

for products in far higher price ranges. Their White Alfa, along with the Color Alfa fabrics ($39, $49) are 70 single Poplin with a thread count of 300 (70x70/190x110 construction).

The Executive- Prestige- and Legacy fabrics ($59, $69, $79) are Egyptian cotton Twill/2 ply (80 double/150x110 construction) and Egyptian compact poplin (70 single/190/110 construction). All of their fabrics are preshrunk and come with a Universal Eco Standard finishing. For suits, their aim is to offer high quality wools and wool blends that are easily manageable and can be worn comfortably throughout the year.

Currently, their solid color collection is comprised of worsted wool/microfiber blend 80 double thread count (fabric weight per square meter is 265 grams). In their patterned and striped fabric collection, we offer worsted wools with a minor microfiber component and the same weight (265 grams). The microfiber in our fabrics lends the respective fabrics a unique durable drape and reduced susceptibility to wrinkles, and coupled with our fabrics’ luxurious finishing, it ensures comfortable wear all year around in most climates.

Moving forward Alfa intends to open a brick and mortar storefront in the next few years. This will give customers an alternate opportunity to see what Bespoke Alfa has to offer. In the meantime, clients are encouraged to visit their website at www.bespokealfa. com and get started using the interactive 3D designer. For a personal fitting please send a detailed e-mail to info@bespokealfa.com

The high quality of their fabrics is common

July/August 2013

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49

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

Serving The Triad Since 1983

1.888.631.4666

SWEET Skin is our Business!

Fine Dining Environment for a Low Price

Lunch

Friday & Saturday 11:30am till 2:30pm

Dinner

Friday & Saturday 5:30pm till 10:00pm

All You Can Eat Buffet $12.00

Sundays

pALMICA

12:00pm till 6:00pm

ToGo box available for additional charge

www.earnbiggerpaychecks.com

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July/August 2013

Available for All Occasions

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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)

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

July/August 2013

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www.jazzydesigngraphic.com

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

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

Monae’s

336.412.0012

Hair Gallerie

2817-E East Market Street Greensboro, NC 27401

336-274-7173 or 336-255-8000

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

Monae Brown

620 S Elm St - Suite 151 Greensboro, NC 27406

James Davis

Realtor - Broker

Screen Printing - Embroidery -T Shirts - Caps - Greek Wear 336-510-1857 336-681-8653 336-273-7771 336-230-0055

50% or more shirts - 10% off

Direct Mobile Main Office Fax

(336)965-7658 For Organization Orders

(336)268-1455

717 Greenvalley Road Greensboro, NC 27408

james.davis@allentate.com www.jamesdavisreal.com

Home . Auto . Life . Health

Transamerica

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

Regina Gainey Agent

email: gainey35@aol.com

‘Resale for the Fashionable Female’ 4725-D High Point Rd. - Greensboro, NC 27407

“Behind Enterprise Rental Car”

www.thegreenpocketnc.com 336-907-8449

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

Owner, Adrienne Rogers

July/August 2013

Want To Advertise? Call (336)340-7844

Wanda Wilson - Stylist

Great Opportunity

www.theafricanschool.com www.tonyapooleexperience.etsy.com

1405 B# Yanceyville Street Greensboro, NC 27405 (336)268-1455 Debra

Robin (336)965-7658

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Open Monday - Saturday 11am till 7pm

3216 Silas Creek Parkway Winston Salem, NC 27103

(336)705-1208

www.thepopcornfanatic.com

s r o v a l F 0 5 Over 1 Blueberry Cheesecake Chicago Mix Mac & Cheese Ghost Pepper Dill Pickle Wasabi Ranch Bacon & Cheddar Buffalo Wings Lemon Cream Banana Pudding Kettle Corn HuamiMagazine.com July/August 2013 Want ToPizza Advertise? Call (336)340-7844

Owned and Operated by Tanika D. B.S. in Early Childhood Education Educational Programs for Infants (6 weeks -12 months) Toddlers Two’s Three’s Preschool (4-5)

Extended Hours Highly Skilled Teachers Age Appropiate Education Plans School Age (Before/Afterschool) Summer Camp

New Location Opening Soon 2607 E. Wendover Avenue - Greensboro, NC