Arizona Coffea Magazine Issue 11

ARIZONA COFFEA

THEE

CRM

Issue 11

GROUP

APPLYING THE PRESSURE AND RAISING THE BAR

Holiday Recipes: Bold Flavors

to Try This Season

Activities You Can Try to Bring Social Connection Back Into Your Life

Arizona Coffea Magazine Arizona Coffea Magazine

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Arizona Coffea

TM

Changing the narrative of the Black community in the media.

www.azcoffea.com

Sharing our Stories and Positivity Arizona Coffea

table of

contents:

Thee CRM Group

Applying the Pressure and Raising the Bar pg. 7) Learn about C. Renee Mangum and her team and how she created the Go-To Business Model for Branding Your Business.

Still Working From Home? Activities to try to Connect Socially (pg. 17)

10 Activities to Help you Leave the Comfort of Your Home and Reconnect with the Outside World.

What's in a Name? A Black Professional's Experience (pg. 21)

professionals share their experience of

Black 'code-switching" when it comes to the pronunciation of their names.

November 2021 Issue #11

Members of Thee CRM Group. Photograher: Dorrell Edwards

THEE CRM GROUP

By NaTyshca Pickett

Thee Client Results Management Group, made up of a team of artists and business owners, is a full-service business development and consulting firm. Their clients are diverse: large and small, private and public, for-profit and nonprofit. They help their clients develop, sustain, and thrive: whatever it takes to embrace their future.

Their belief is that success is not achieved nor hindered by focusing on the actions of the competition. Rather, it is attained through clarity, consistency, and strong strategy, including strategic collaboration, that correlates with each client's brand identity.

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Meet the CEO

C. Renee Mangum, Founder and CEO of Thee CRM Group. Photographer: Dorrell Edwards

RAISING THE BAR & APPLYING PRESSURE

Inside A Brilliant Mind

Who Is

C. Renee?

At Arizona Coffea, we follow many brands and businesses to stay abreast as to what's happening in our community and who the game changers are. One person who's caught our eye is C. Renee Mangum, Founder and CEO of Thee CRM Group. We had a chance to interview Renee on business, leadership, branding, and much more.

C. Renee Mangum is a one-stop shop for aspiring and established entrepreneurs looking to fully develop new business concepts or re-brand existing entities.

With a strong background in graphic design, web design, and marketing, she utilizes her variety of skills to serve the entrepreneurial community. Her core values include collaboration, creativity, confidence, and community.

Tell us who you are and about Thee CRM Group. Why did you choose this name for your company?

I’m C. Reneé Mangum, a very laid-back lady from the east side of Detroit who took a chance on herself. I was a teen mom, teen wife, and college dropout at 19 years old. At 20 years old, I decided to move across the country with my husband and baby boy, to see if we could make a good life for ourselves in the Phoenix desert. It turned out to be our promised land. I’m now 33 years old with a thriving 6-figure business that I built from the ground up.

The name, Thee CRM Group, is pretty loaded lol. CRM stands for Client Results Management, not just my name. My goal has always been to get real results for my clients and teach them how to maintain and sustain those results over time. I want my clients to have longevity.

My reason for choosing “Thee” is kinda funny. When it was time for me to buy my website domain name, someone already had “the” CRM group (dot) com purchased. Someone had also purchased MY NAME, C Reneé Mangum (dot) com. I was so upset and I said “I am THEE C RENEÉ and I am THEE CRM GROUP!” It was me saying, “I’m the real one.” Lol, and it stuck!

I chose “Group” because, even when I was a solopreneur, I knew I would build my company to be a team dynamic. It was never just about me because I cannot do everything and be effective. I would build a group of professionals who did a lot of different things, that would benefit so many different businesses. And that’s ultimately what I have now.

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C. Renee Mangum. Photographer Dorrell Edwards

Why is the work you do important?

I believe that every business owner is passionate about their business’s success but may not know how to execute it. We all have our specific strengths and we only have one perspective, one set of eyes. What I do is provide entrepreneurs with more trained eyes to evaluate and develop their business strategies, as well as more hands with different strengths to balance out their weaknesses. My company brings balance and completion to our clients in the areas where they need it, in order to thrive. I’d say that’s pretty important.

What's the biggest factor that has helped you be successful?

I would say, my ability to “be scared and do it anyway.” Some would call it trusting your gut. I call it faith strategies. I don’t always know that what I’m going to do will work, but I’m not afraid to try. I push the envelope and I develop big ideas.

However, I don’t let the ideas stay in my head. I actually jump out there and start executing, even when I’m scared and don’t know what the outcome will be.

What are your success habits?

1. I live by my calendar and to-do lists. If it’s not written down, it won’t happen.

And if it is written down, I HAVE to get it done.

2. I have a routine. I know what I’m going to do on each workday, from start to finish. It may seem boring for some, but it’s how consistency is kept.

3. I have “CEO” days for myself. These are days where I don’t see clients or work on client accounts. I only do meetings with my teams, do follow-ups, map things out, evaluate, etc. As small business owners, we spend so much time being an employee of our business; we forget to also be the CEO. There’s a big difference.

4. I take a lot of vacations and time off.

Yes, this is a successful habit. I take care of myself and make time to do things that I love. I enjoy the fruits of my labor.

Otherwise, I would get burned out and start resenting my work.

5. I stay in my lane and build partnerships with amazing people in other lanes. I don’t try to do everything. I do my thing.

What mistakes have you made along the way?

I didn’t delegate sooner!!!! I tried to do so much on my own, for so long. I would get overwhelmed and shut completely down.

I’ve had to refund money, turn clients away, etc., because I was trying to do too much for too long, thinking I could not afford to hire help.

Another big mistake was taking on projects that made me cringe. There’s nothing worse than feeling like a slave to your own business that you built! I found myself saying yes to clients and projects that were not in line with my company's priorities, just because the money was good. I started despising my business when really I just needed to learn how to say NO and refer to other professionals in my network for a finders fee lol.

I didn’t fully define my brand at first. As I studied branding, I saw all the gaps and holes in my own. That is why I am so passionate about proper brand development for my clients, which is my most popular service.

What was the hardest decision you ever had to make?

I had to make the decision to sacrifice time with my family, in order to build this business for my family. I was a stay-athome mom for about 8 years and I had side hustles during that time. However, I knew that if I really wanted to grow a real business, it would require more than “side hustle” attention, which meant sacrificing some of my family time. That was hard for me and it was hard on my family at first, I dealt with a lot of guilt

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"Lead with Compassion & Stop at NOTHING"

because I wasn’t as active at home as I was before. I had to learn what real balance is, and it was a challenge.

Now, because I made that sacrifice for a little while, I can have time with my family whenever I want. You do what you have to do so that you can do what you want to do!

What personality trait should every leader have?

Compassion. Everyone on your team is 12

different and everyone faces challenges. If you try to lead in this society with an iron fist and a closed heart, you are likely not setting your team up to thrive.

Leading with compassion and understanding allows your team to feel freer to communicate their needs and ultimately work better together.

Flexibility and Adaptability. The structure is important. However, it is also important to create an environment where creators can be creative, thinkers can think, everyone can operate freely in their gift for the best possible outcome.

Accountability. You have to be accountable to your team, and they have to be accountable to you. It’s how respect is built and maintained.

What is the best advice you can give?

Stop at NOTHING, when it comes to telling people about your business.

If you had an unlimited cure to cancer, wouldn’t you want to tell everybody you could, in every way you could? You wouldn’t only tell your family and friends.

You also wouldn’t only tell people with cancer.

You would likely tell EVERYBODY you possibly could because you never know who might need it. And if the people who need it don’t get it, they could die.

Start looking at your business with the same severity. Don’t worry about annoying people. Do you think these Fortune 500 companies care if their constant advertising annoys you?

Absolutely not, because they know you will think of them if you find yourself needing what they offer. If you offer a result that somebody needs, stop at nothing to keep letting everybody know about it.

THE TEAM BEHIND THEE CRM GROUP

Great things in business are never done by one person.

They are done by a team of people.

Star Rollins-Campbell

I am Thee CRM Group's lead stylist. I came to the team with over 8 years experience in the fashion industry. I’m still blown away with how phenomenal this team is and how Renee has been able to pick out the valleys best of the best. I work with this team because we all have 1 agenda and that’s to take over our respective industries, and were smart enough to know we could do it much more efficiently together.

Star Rollins - Campbell.

Photographer Dorell Edwards

Mary Nickerson

I am a Professional Makeup Artist & Educator as well as the Owner of Slaydown Makeup Studio in Downtown Phoenix.

Working with Thee CRM group has been one of the best decisions I’ve made for my makeup career. Having the opportunity to work with so many different entrepreneurs and making life connections allows me to grow as a person and business owner.

Mary Nickerson. Photographer: Dorrell Edwards

Michelle Anderson, Owner/CEO of MichelleAndHair Salon and Extensions

Wanting a more intimate experience with a client, and Renee being the “Fairy Brandmother”, it only made sense that I indulged in the opportunity she blessed me with, by being apart of her team. I have seen her birth so many businesses, and to help by adding to their final look, that will be introduced to the world, is thee exact elevation I knew Thee CRM Group would add to my portfolio.

Michelle Anderson. Photographer: Dorrell Edwards

THE

STRENGTH OF THE TEAM IS EACH INDIVIDUAL MEMBER. THE STRENGTH OF EACH MEMBER IS THE TEAM.

Xavion Grantham

I am the Director of Operations for Thee CRM Group. I am a creative with 6 years experience in the entertainment industry. After witnessing Renee’s work for myself, I knew I wanted to become involved. Working with Thee CRM Group has allowed me to connect with many people, each with their own passion. It has been amazing to watch Renee and her team work and bring these passions to life over and over again. This team is extremely talented, each person gifted in their specialty. I love working for this company.

Xavion Grantham. Photographer: Dorrell Edwards

Anneke Marie

I'm a portrait photographer and small business owner here in Phoenix.

I have a passion for women, especially women in business. So providing my talents to what another black woman was already building here in the community was a no brainer. Renee is amazing and the team dynamic is pure magic. I love it here.

Anneke Marie. Photographer: Dorrell Edwards

Spechel Shaw

Although her focus is set design, Spechel Shaw's breath of talent and abilities have proven her to be the creative chameleon of the team.

With an eye for detail, Spechel approaches every project with a high standard of excellence bringing innovative ideas.

Her designs push the envelope but never compromises quality.

“The CRM team doesn’t keep me in a box, being apart of this team allows me to maximize my creativity to its fullest potential.”

Spechel Shaw. Photographer: Dorrell Edwards

GOOD TEAMS BECOME GREAT ONES WHEN THE MEMBERS TRUST EACH OTHER ENOUGH TO SURRENDER THE ME FOR THE WE.

Nicole Simone is a professional model for FORD and LA Model Management. She is also the CEO and digital creator of Curves on a Budget. She is one of the photographers with Thee CRM Group who specializes in capturing lifestyle images.

Being apart of Thee CRM Group from the very beginning, has been a beautiful thing to watch one of by best friends (Renee) impact the lives and businesses of so many people. I love working with this team because we all work so well together and explore our own talents as creatives.

Timothy Alan. Photographer: Dorrell Edwards

TAlan Photography LLC has been providing eyecatching photos that highlight various aspects of life across the nation.

TAlan has provided images for several clothing brands, media outlets, and individuals alike. Shortly after being introduced as the premier photographer for the CEO of the group, it was only natural to begin providing services with the brand team. The relationship was like a match made in heaven.

Nicole Simone. Photographer: Dorrell Edwards

If you're interested in working with Thee CRM Group on your next branding campaign, or just want to learn more, be sure to go to their website at www.theecrenee.com.

Also, follow them on Instagram @theecrmgroup.

Beauty from the Top of Her Fro to the Tip of Her Toe

Tips & Tricks on Maintaining Social Experiences While Still WFH

Alanna Saunders

Throughout this pandemic, one of the most talked-about parts was working from home (WFH).

Some loved it. (Ahem!)

Others were eager to get back to the office. Whether or not you liked it, felt unsure about it, or hated it, we all experienced some level of social disconnection.

We are social beings. As Forbes states “...it’s a mistake to think that most humans prefer the solitary life that so much of modern life imposes on us. We are most comfortable when we’re connected, sharing strong emotions and stories, and led by a strong, charismatic leader who is keeping us safe and together.”

For the most part, many aspects of our pre-pandemic life are somewhat normal. But what about the people who are still WFH? For those who are still working remote (or just want to try something new), here’s a list of activities that will bring back social connection into your life.

1.) Join a workout class. Throughout the lockdown, we were getting constant messages about working out at home. From yoga to Zumba there’s a workout class for everybody.

2.) Take a pottery class. Molding clay with your hands is a very spiritual practice. It’s calming and therapeutic.

After you get over how messy it can be, you zone out… it’s a wonderful feeling.

3.) Join or make a book club. Books are an amazing way to be transported into another world and learn new things. You can choose one or two books a month, go back and forth between fiction and nonfiction. When you get halfway or finish the book, you and your club can meet and discuss it.

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4.) Learn an instrument. Was it there an instrument you’ve always wanted to learn, or you want to learn again? Now is a perfect time. If we learned anything through this pandemic, it’s do want you love and enjoy it.

5.) Have a bake-off. Invite some friends to all bake the same thing (i.e.: brownies), get together and enjoy.

6.) Try new restaurants. Every month or so you and some friends can go out and explore a new restaurant or a new cuisine entirely.

7.) Netflix party. Invite some friends over and watch a new movie. If you’re not comfortable having people over, you can have a Zoom Netflix party. Start the movie at the exact same time and enjoy each other reactions.

8.) Paint and Sip Night. Go to your local art store or the dollar store to get some canvases and paint. Enjoy some tea, or wine, eggnog, or apple cider.

9.) Bike ride. Get those endorphins up take a scenic bike ride with a bunch of friends. If your friends aren’t into riding bikes check out your local bike store. They often have ride clubs.

10.) Grow your own produce. You don’t need to have a backyard to grow your own food. There are tons of indoor garden systems. Invite a friend or two and plant some seeds.

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Cynnamon Brown

Rooted

The seeds were planted, they were strategically scattered, upon solid ground.

Being nurtured, and loved. The spirit was rooted on good soil. It grew through the concrete. It's as delicate as a pretty tulip, that's annually bought to life. Yet telling one how they should be when the cool breeze blows. You're taken for a ride on a natural high. Borderline savage. Not grown, just to be thinking average thoughts. As my mind runs deep its roots seem to take flight. As the leaves fall, it's almost autumn.

Seasons change, just want to be happy, sharing love around the world, being that kind of human being, rooted within a special type of perfection. Loving thyself, before loving anyone else, makes life so serene. Summer ends, Fall is coming, orange, brown, leaves cover the pavement. As the seeds blow, some deeper in the dirt. Rooted feelings begin to surface. One always remembers.

Love Thyself as you're planted within the confines of your mind.

Emotions take flight, black faces in the night. When you are secure and know how your blessings flow, rooted into your soul, on solid ground in good soil. Every day is a blessing, with flaws too, you know... however, continue to grow, beautifully rooted, in GOD'S love.

WHAT'S IN A NAME?

A BLACK PROFESSIONAL'S EXPERIENCE

Crystal Onyema

W

ant to know a secret?

Black professionals have the same aspirations and goals as their counterparts. Many aspire and accomplish graduate high school and college. Many aspire and accomplish obtaining a career.

Shocking, isn’t it? Sarcastically speaking, of course.

However, it is not a secret that in these environments, Black professionals find themselves having to conform to what their counterparts (particularly whites) all of the time. Their counterparts will likely never have to deal with the things that minorities have to, such as hairstyle, clothing, diction, and even their God-given name.

According to a 2017 Harvard Business article, “companies are more than twice as likely to call minority applicants for interviews if they submit whitened resumes than candidates who reveal their race—and this discriminatory practice is just as strong for businesses that claim to value diversity as those that don’t.”

Polled Black professionals have stated they feel they have had varying levels of name discrimination.

Many have felt that they were not able to get callbacks for a job due to having a “Sha” “La” or “Qua” inputted in their names. Other polled Black professionals have lamented having to change their government names to something else.

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Some stated once they shortened their full names, or used their middle names, they found themselves getting more callbacks for jobs. Similar situations have happened to Black professionals who actually have more European sounding names. They have stated that their parents bequeathed them, or they have decided to give their kids such names, so they can have an “easier” opportunity to be taken seriously in the workforce.

However, when some professionals of color got the interview and/or job, they still expressed visibly seeing the shock (and disappointment) from the company staff in seeing a melanated Amber, Kaleigh, Bradley or Sarah instead of the likely Caucasian they envisioned.

The fact is that Blacks typically work far harder to prove that they belong in an educational and work environment. And it’s an unfortunate fact that they also find themselves having to mask their identities to even get a chance in the door at times.

This is a dilemma that is quite familiar to Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Folashade Williams.

The Texas-based counselor discovered throughout her life that her name-albeit strong, unique, and a part of her culture- was something she had to battle with throughout her entire schooling and career.

Getting her name correct was of huge significance.

Her father is from Freetown, Sierra Leone and her Texas-born mother wanted to pay homage to her father’s heritage by giving her an African name.

Folashade means “Honor Confers a Crown.” Williams’ mother made sure she understood her name's significance. In turn, Folashade makes people she encounters aware that her name stands in royalty. “I let people know that (my name) is nothing but luxury upon saying it,” she stated. However, she encountered micro-aggressions within the African community due to her name being Nigerian and not Sierra Leonean. She also once recalled being told that she was not “Black enough” due to her name and heritage by a schoolmate. “I got it from both sidesthe white community and my own,” she stated.

According to Williams, it all started in her childhood.

Even her brother could not pronounce her name correctly, and it would annoy her. “I remember at five years old yelling at him ‘My name is Fo-law-shawday’ Williams humorously and phonetically recalled.

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She remembers her name assimilation also commenced during her early primary schooling.

She lived in a predominately white-area and would have her classmates call her by her middle name, Nicole. Williams didn’t want to have the (then) daunting task of explaining how to pronounce Folashade. Once she changed schools with more classmates that resembled her, she changed her stance. “I didn’t give people a way out any longer to not learn my name.

Because to me, that makes me feel like you are ignoring me, my identity as a human, and as a Black woman. And I refused no longer” Williams stated.

Despite this, Williams recalled all throughout primary school and grad school having to deal with fighting for her name being respected and recognized. “I would get educators who would see my name and say ‘oh, I am not going to even try to say that’”, Williams stated. “The minute that they paused [from looking at my name on the list], and they held it more than a second, I knew that they have got to my name and they couldn’t pronounce it. I have had to deal with this every day of my life."

Marriage & Family Therapist, Folashade Williams

After having a relatively cultured and positive experience during her undergrad at Howard University, Williams encountered cultural ignorance once again at a predominantly white university. She had one professor in her graduate school class refuse to say her name when she easily would say everyone else’s (non-melanated, of course). Folashade eventually caught on and (on top of other passive-aggressive behaviors the professor had towards her) called out and reported the professor’s behavior. “The professor was a professional counselor, which didn’t make any sense because she was aggressive in not understanding me as a human.” She stated.

It all seemed to be an oxymoron.

Upon receiving her degrees, Williams found it initially difficult to find a quality job despite her accreditations. She one day noticed several videos online suggesting individuals with ethnic titles change their names on their resumes to reflect the initial of their first name. This action in turn would hopefully change the narrative of getting more callbacks for jobs. However, despite her research, and even encouragement from her mother to do so, Williams did not feel at peace with it and decided against changing her name on her resume. “If I have to change my name for a job to notice me, I don’t want it,” Williams declared. “The job where I am supposed to be will see the value in me outside of my name and will call in spite of my name.”

And eventually, she did find employment in several areas. It just wasn’t as fulfilling as what her true calling was.

After going through the journey of becoming licensed to become a therapist, Folashade was ready to get into her God-given career of counseling. And this time, when she sent her resumes out for counselor positions, she pleasantly encountered another side of her name identity in the corporate world.

After applying to several therapist positions, she haphazardly applied for a counselor position helping veterans. After listening to a voicemail from the organization’s human resources, she felt the need to call them back due to the positive tonality. Once she got in contact in spoke with the gentleman who initially reached out to her for an interview, she was immediately smitten. “The guy told me that he didn’t know how to say my name and he wanted to call to make sure he pronounced it correct. And that piqued my interest immediately. I was like ‘Thank you! Finally, somebody understands!”

“I told him how to pronounce my name, what my name meant, how I got my name, and I told him about my experiences. Because that is my testimony,” Williams recalled.

Williams stated that after their conversation, she found out later that the hiring gentleman was embarrassed to have forgotten her name once again. Fortunately, a family member of William’s friend worked there and was able to remind him of the pronunciation. The gentleman made amends to learn to pronounce it before they had a face-to-face interview, as he was determined to say it correctly.

“That just spoke to my heart. I was so appreciative because I don’t get that [respect] at all.” Williams said. “I love when individuals attempt to try because it means you are attempting to understand who I am.”

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As much as we all would like this to be a happy ending and a light at the end of the tunnel for respect for ethnic names in the corporate world, it, unfortunately, is something that is heavily dealt with, even after getting employed. Upon getting hired, Williams still faced snide remarks about her name from some coworkers. She laments the difficulty and anxiety in remaining cool, calm, and collected when faced with such ignorance.

“Things kind of fester and they bother me when I feel like I reduce myself and I can’t speak up for myself because of where I am and what backlash can happen to me because I am a Black woman. My whole integrity and whole feelings were hurt, because of what I did not say and what I should have said at that moment [with said coworkers]” Williams pondered.

She likened name discrimination to that of KuntaKinte from the historical film “Roots”, as he was whipped by his slave master for not acknowledging the given name Toby. “It may sound so dramatic, but that’s how I feel,” Williams stated. “My name has more vowels than [someone with a European last name] like Shostakovich. It should be easy to figure out. Some just don’t want to.”

Dallas, Texas Native Folashade Williams

Williams is a Howard University Alumnus However, Williams believes in the theory of what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger.

She stated that she has been learning to love and understand herself since the time she decided to embrace her name in the third grade. She remains steadfast in making sure that her name, Folashade, will never be reduced, mispronounced, and disrespected in the workforce ever again and recommends all Black professionals do the same. Regardfully, of course.

“What’s in a name?” one may ask.

To the Black community of professionals who are aspiring and currently making their marks in the corporate and educational world?

To the Black community of professionals who also want to stay true to their identities and cultures of their God-given names?

Everything. It means everything.

Contact Folashade Williams for her services, at folashade.williams@gmail.com.

fashion t r e n d s

2 0 2 1 winter

c o l l e c t i o n

c o l l e c t i o n

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Affordable Fashion Brands Amped up for Winter

By Andrea Kelley

It’s definitely a thing to marvel over highend brands when they release new collections and collaborations, but it brings me utter joy when affordable brands bring the same energy. If you find yourself balling on a budget and just want to save those coins for a rainy day, here are some fashion brands that you need to watch out for.

JLuxeLabel has been a pivotal clothing brand in my closet for years with its daring and sophisticated looks. From their basic items to their jaw-dropping sequins you will surely find what you are looking for from this brand. Their new collection features neutral and earthtoned favorites that will give your winter wardrobe a look like none other. Big puffy coats and sweaters are definitely in this winter and these items will leave you snuggled and stylish. Their prices range from $29.99 and up which includes tops and bottoms. They also have tons of matching sets and cozy tops to pair with one of their comfortable-fitting jeans.

Sweater weather is definitely upon us and this brand has dozens of items to choose.

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c o l l e c t i o n

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Next up we have TouchDolls which is another phenomenal affordable brand. If you’re looking for more fashionable statement pieces to spice up your winter wardrobe try one of their two-piece dress and pant sets.

These sets are full of prints and patterns that will surely give your outfit pop. Spicing up your winter wardrobe definitely brings the heat for any look. These dresses range from $29.99 to and up. Get your hands on one of these items to make a statement at your next holiday event.

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Last but certainly not least, we have the House of CB. This brand has been one of my favorites for special occasions and events but it looks like this brand is bringing fashion lovers some much-needed sexy holiday dresses. Their prices are a little bit more than affordable but trust me these items are worth the extra coin. These dresses are perfect for date night with your boo or a special and much-needed girls' night out for drinks. They would also make fit for a great birthday outfit. These pieces bring minimalistic styling but also a touch of sexiness to give your look a classier vibe. We’ve only caught a glimpse of what’s to come from this brand so we will definitely be keeping our eyes out for more releases.

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Eden Grace Photos High Quality, Affordable Photography

Arizona based family, wedding and intimate wedding photographer.

Capturing the story of your life, one chapter at a time.

www.edengracephotos.com

HOLIDAY RECIPES

GET YOUR EAT ON

GOODIES For Everyone

Mango and Walnut Salad A great holiday salad. Everyone will love it!

Ingredients

Spinach (6 cups)

Sliced Mangoes (3)

Walnuts (1-2 cups)

1/2 cup Balsamic Vinegar

1/4 cup brown sugar

Medium salad bowl

Wax paper

1/2 tsp Salt and pepper

Medium saucepan

3/4 cup Olive oil

2 tbsp Honey

Instructions

Step 1

Mix 1/4 cup brown sugar and 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar together in a bowl. Turn the saucepan on low heat and pour the mixture into the pan. Allow it to simmer until bubbles appear. Toss in 1/2 cup of walnuts and mix until they are evenly coated. Remove candied walnuts and place them on a sheet of wax paper to cool. Next, combine sliced mangoes and pre-rinsed spinach in your medium salad bowl. Toss in candied walnuts and mix together.

Step 2

Serve with a homemade dressing composed of honey, balsamic, and olive oil. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the 2 tbsp honey, 1/4 cup balsamic.

-Add 1/4 cup oil and whisk thoroughly to combine.

-Store in a jar with a lid and refrigerate. Shake well before serving.

-Add salt and pepper to taste.

Candied Yams Gluten Free - Nut Free

Ingredients 4 Medium Yams

Nonstick cooking spray

1/4 cup coconut sugar

1/2 teaspoon ground ginger

1/2 cup maple syrup or agave nectar

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 stick vegan butter

Instructions 1. Preheat the oven to 375. Peel the yams and cut them into 1/4 inch round slices.

2. Lightly spray a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray, then arrange the slices in the baking dish.

3. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the sugar, ginger. Stir in the maple syrup, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt.

4. Pour mixture evenly over the yams, then add the butter in dollops around the baking dish. Cover with parchment paper and then aluminum foil, and bake for 45 minutes.

5. Remove the foil parchment paper, baste the yams with the liquid in the baking dish, and bake for an additional 20 minutes uncovered.

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Turkey Enchiladas Ingredients INGREDIENTS

8 tbsp. vegetable oil, divided

1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced

4 cloves garlic, minced

2 jalalpeños, seeded, thinly sliced

3 (10-oz.) cans enchilada sauce

12 small yellow corn tortillas

3 c. cooked shredded turkey meat

1 (14-oz.) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed

2 1/2 c. shredded Monterey jack, divided

3/4 c. sour cream, plus more for serving

Kosher salt

1/2 c. cilantro leaves and tender stems

3/4 c. crumbled Cotija

1/4 c. toasted pepitas

Instructions Preheat oven to 375°. In a large skillet over mediumhigh heat, heat 2 tablespoons oil. Add onion, garlic, and jalapeño and cook until onion is soft, 5 minutes.

Add enchilada sauce and cook until slightly thickened, about 8 minutes.

Meanwhile, heat remaining 6 tablespoons oil in a medium skillet over medium high until hot. Using tongs, dip each tortilla into hot oil, making sure to get it covered in oil, just until they are pliable—they don’t need to take on any color. (This will make rolling them easier!) Transfer to a paper towel lined plate until ready to use.

In a medium bowl, combine turkey, pinto beans, and 2 cups Monterey jack. Add 1 cup enchilada sauce mixture and 3/4 cup sour cream and toss to combine, then season with salt.

Place 1 1/4 cups enchilada sauce to a 9"-x-13" baking dish and spread evenly across the bottom. Add a small scoop of the turkey mixture in the center of a tortilla, then roll up and place seam side down in the dish of enchilada sauce. Repeat with remaining tortillas.

Spread remaining enchilada sauce on top and sprinkle with remaining 1/2 cup Monterey jack.

Bake until cheese is bubbling and melty, 15 to 20 minutes.

Garnish with cilantro, cotija, and pepitas and serve with sour cream.

Egg Nog Cheesecake This is a delicious cheesecake for eggnog lovers. The secret to a smooth cheesecake is to blend the cream cheese in a food processor for several minutes.

Ingredients

1 cup graham cracker crumbs

2 tablespoons white sugar

3 tablespoons melted butter

3 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened

1 cup white sugar

3 tablespoons allpurpose flour

¾ cup eggnog

2 eggs

2 tablespoons rum

1 pinch ground nutmeg

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Directions

Step 1

Preheat oven to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C).

Step 2

In a medium bowl combine graham cracker crumbs, 2 tablespoons sugar and butter. Press into the bottom of a 9 inch spring form pan.

Step 3

Bake in preheated oven for 10 minutes. Place on a wire rack to cool.

Step 4

Preheat oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C).

Step 5

In a food processor combine cream cheese, 1 cup sugar, flour and eggnog; process until smooth. Blend in eggs, rum and nutmeg. Pour mixture into cooled crust.

Step 6

Bake in preheated oven for 10 minutes.

Step 7

Reduce heat to 250 and bake for 45 minutes, or until center of cake is barely firm to the touch. Remove from the oven and immediately loosen cake from rim.

Let cake cool completely before removing the rim.

Banana Nut Bread

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/8 teaspoon ground ginger

2 eggs, lightly beaten

2 cups mashed overripe bananas

1 cup + 1 teaspoon of sugar

1/2 cup vegetable oil

1/3 cup chopped walnuts

36

Step 1

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease bottom of pan (9x5x3) with unsalted butter or butter-flavored Crisco.

Step 2

In bowl--combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, salt, nutmeg, and ginger.

Step 3

In a separate bowl--stir together eggs, bananas, sugar, and oil. Add this mixture to flour mixture and stir until combined (batter will be lumpy--that's OK).

-Fold in chopped walnuts

-Spoon batter into prepared 9x5x3 pan. (you can add walnuts on top)

Step 4

Bake for 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

-Cool in pan on wire rack for 10 minutes (no more than 15 minutes).

-Remove from pan to cool completely on rack.

*tip -- to prevent overbrowning in oven, cover bread loosely with foil for last 15 minuets of baking*

How to Make a

Gingerbread House Ingredients

Deselect All

1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, at room temperature

1/2 cup dark brown sugar

1/4 cup light molasses or dark corn syrup

1 tablespoon cinnamon

1 tablespoon ground ginger

1 1/2 teaspoons ground cloves

1 teaspoon baking soda

2 cups all-purpose flour

For assemblage and decoration:

Melted white chocolate or Royal Icing, recipe follows

Gumdrops, licorice and peppermint, as desired

Royal Icing:

1 pound (3-3/4 cups) powdered sugar, sifted if lumpy

1 to 2 large egg whites, or substitute 4 teaspoons packaged egg whites and 1/4 cup water

1 teaspoon almond extract, vanilla or lemon juice

How to Make a

Gingerbread House Directions

Gingerbread House: In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter, brown sugar, molasses, cinnamon, ginger, cloves and baking soda together until the mixture is smooth. Blend in the flour and water to make a stiff dough. Chill at least 30 minutes or until firm.

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.

Cut out the following paper patterns for the gingerbread house template: Two rectangles, 3 by 5 inches, to make the front and back of the house. Two rectangles, 3 by 5 1/2 inches for the roof. Two pieces for the ends of the house, 3 inches wide at the base, 3 inches to the roof line, and slanted to a peak 5 1/2 inches from the bottom. Four smaller rectangles, 1 1/2 by 1 inch for the roof and sides of the entryway. And one piece, 2 inches wide at the base, 1 1/2 inches to the roof line, and slanted to a peak 2 1/2 inches from the bottom for the front of the entryway.

Roll gingerbread dough out to edges on a large, rimless cookie sheet. Place paper patterns onto the rolled out dough. With a sharp, straight edged knife, cut around each of the pieces, but leave pieces in place.

Bake at 375 degrees F for about 15 minutes until dough feels firm.

Place patterns on top of the gingerbread again and trim shapes, cutting edges with a straight-edged sharp knife. Leave to cool on baking sheet.

Place royal icing into pastry bag with a writing tip and press out to decorate individual parts of house, piping on decorations, windows, door, etc., as desired. Let dry until hardened.

Glue sides, front and back of house together at corners using royal icing.

Place an object against the pieces to prop up until icing is dry (it only takes a few minutes).

Glue the two roof pieces to the pitched roofline of the house. Then, similarly, glue the sides and roof of the entryway together with icing.

Attach the entryway to the front of the house.

Continue decorating the house, gluing on gumdrops, licorice and peppermint, as desired.

Royal Icing:

Mix all of the ingredients together using an electric hand mixer, until the icing is smooth and thin enough to be pressed through a pastry bag with a writing tip. Add more lemon juice, if necessary.

Apple Cider Sangria Ingredients

2 1/2 c. apple cider

3/4 c. brandy

1/2 c. fresh clementine or orange juice

1/4 c. fresh lemon juice

1 1-in piece fresh ginger, peeled and very thinly sliced

2 tsp. orange bitters

4 clementines, thinly sliced

2 apples (Pink Lady, Honeycrisp or your favorite), very thinly sliced pomegranate seeds

1 750ml bottle Prosecco or other dry sparkling wine

Pomegranate seeds, for serving

Directions

In a large pitcher, stir together cider, brandy, clementine juice, lemon juice, ginger and bitters. Stir in clementine and apple slices (you can refrigerate this mixture for up to a day).

When ready to serve, add Prosecco. Serve over ice with a few pomegranate seeds, if desired.

41

Mama Honey's Buttermilk Pie

Ingredients

3 eggs

1 1/2 cups white granulated sugar

1/2 cup butter or margarine or 8 tablespoons or 1 stick softened

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

1 cup buttermilk

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

3 tablespoons all-purpose flour

Instructions

Beat eggs, sugar, butter and vanilla with mixer until well blended. Add buttermilk, flour and nutmeg continue mixing about 1 minute.

Pour into pie shells. Bake in preheated 350 degree oven for 45 minutes.

Notes

This Buttermilk Pie recipe makes one deep dish or two regular pies.

42

A Holiday

Favorite

43

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The Twelve Classic Songs of Christmas: (For the Culture Edition) Crystal Onyema

It’s the most wonderful time of the year!

2020 and 2021 have taught us to cherish every moment with those who we loveand no time is better to put this to good use than the holiday season.

Now with the Christmas/Thanksgiving cooking, the decorating, and the gift wrapping/opening, there has to be a soundtrack, right?

Need help on what songs to choose to jam out to for your holiday festivities?

Have no fear, Arizona Coffea has the holiday chocolate-peppermint flavored candy for you and your loved one’s ears.

From the classics to the culture, here are “The Twelve Classic Songs of Christmas” to add to your holiday streaming song list.

For the first song for Christmas, AZ Coffea gave to me….

“Let it Snow” (1993) by Boyz II Men & Brian McKnight. Nothing will warm your heart and body more than this iconic quintet and insatiable crooner serving holiday cheer during their career and vocal opuses.

For the second song for Christmas, AZ Coffea gave to me….

“Silent Night” (1970) by The

Temptations. Your parents and/or grandparents will recall their Christmas memories with this legendary song and group as the soundtrack.

For the fourth song for Christmas, AZ Coffea gave to me….

Boyz II Men

For the third song for Christmas, AZ Coffea gave to me….

“Santa Claus is Coming to Town” (1970) by Jackson Five. Nothing will have you and your cousins sliding across the floor more than this jam by the future late great King of Pop and his legendary bros. No, not even spiked eggnog can rival this.

Donny Hathaway

“This Christmas” (1970) by Donny Hathaway/ (2007) by Chris Brown.

The late, great Mr. Hathaway went into the studio to deliver a song that described holiday cheer specifically for our (African American) community. And we honor it by playing it every year and living out his vision. Period.

And because C-Breezy delivered on this remake so well that we are sure Mr. Hathaway cosigned the holiday cheer from the other side.

For the fifth song for Christmas, AZ Coffea gave to me….

Fiiiivvveeee Octive Vocal Ranges!!!

(Ahem)

“Joy to The World” (1996) by Whitney Houston. Not only is “The Preacher’s Wife” a Black family holiday film MUST, this song makes you soar into holiday reverie from the late iconic Houston’s ethereal, earth-shattering vocals and The Georgia Mass Choir’s unforgettable supporting background voices.

For the sixth song for Christmas, AZ Coffea gave to me….

“Sleigh Ride” (1992) by TLC. This New Jack Swing banger fueled by the incomparable late Lisa “Left Eye” Lopes’ hippity, hoppity flow transforms you to shimmy those shoulders around the Christmas tree a time or two.

Whitney Houston

For the seventh song for Christmas, AZ Coffea gave to me….

“Oh Holy Night” (2010) by Mariah Carey. SURE we could put her forever chart-shattering “All I Want For Christmas Is You” on the list, but don’t sleep on the “Queen of Christmas” serving all types of vocal pleasure with her take on the holiday classic. Bonus: Check out her new song with Kirk Franklin and Khalid called “Fall in Love at Christmas”!

For the eighth song for Christmas, AZ Coffea gave to me….

“Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” (1995) by Luther Vandross.

Nothing beats snuggling up to your significant other with some sweet potato pie and having the late iconic “Luffa” serenade you all into holiday peace, love and joy.

For the ninth song for Christmas, AZ Coffea gave to me….

“Winter Wonderland” (1998)

by Babyface. Once you hear the iconic “Face” take on this classic, you can’t help but be transformed into a melanated holiday world of cheer, hot cocoa, collard greens and sleigh bells.

For the tenth song for Christmas, AZ Coffea gave to me….

Christmas in Hollis” (1987) by Run D.M.C. Nothing sounds better than these rap legends taking y’all on a time machine back to their version of THEIR Christmas in Queens, New York. Absolutely nothing.

Run DMC Kirk Franklin

For the eleventh song for Christmas, AZ Coffea gave to me….

"8 Days of Christmas” (2001)

by Destiny’s Child. Why not grab your homies and have a sing off with one of the biggest girl groups of all time?

Plus ‘Yonce hasn’t gifted a Christmas album since.

And the finale…

For the twelveth song for Christmas, AZ Coffea gave to me….

“Now Behold The Lamb" (1995) by Kirk Franklin and The Family.

Whether you are religious, spiritual, etc., there is no way to never acknowledge the reason for the season (Jesus, our savior. Duh!).

“Klassic Kirk” and his former army of vocal prowlers (including future stars Tamela and David Mann) make you humble thyself and give thanks this holiday season. And we all need that reminder!

THE JOURNAL ENTRY

We Want to Hear From YOU!

This is an opportunity for you to write in and tell us what's on your mind. The Journal Entry allows our readers to engage with us. Do you have something you want to get off your chest? Do you want to respond to a previous article? Do you have suggestions on what you'd like to see in the magazine? We want to hear from you! Please send your email to info@azcoffea.com.

51

FESTIVE touches Jazz Up Your Space this Holiday NaTyshca Pickett

Holiday Season Got You Down? Changing Your Space May Help!

We all know this holiday season is none like we've ever experienced. Many are alone during this time or are having Zoom parties with family and friends.

One thing you can do to see some light at the end of this never ending tunnel, is transforming your space for the holiday season.

One thing I've done is started decorating my front porch to match the season. Once the holidays are over, this is something you can continue to do, to not only change up your space, but give you something to look forward to.

Since we are in the holiday season, here are some tips and tricks you can do to transform your space into a joyous atmosphere.

1. Decorate Your Barstools One cool way to keep in the spirit is adding name tags or wreaths to the back of your barstool. It's inexpensive and you can find the needed materials at any craft store.

Hang Stockings in 2.

Different Places In our home, every year we find a new location to place our stockings. It keeps things fun for the kids and changes our living room space. Since we don't have a mantle, this works perfectly. You can use stairs, window sills, book cases and the edging of your countertops. Have fun and be creative!

3. Be Creative with Your Garland The tree is not the only place for garland. I actually used mine for my outdoor vases and it provides the illusion that there is more greenery in the vases.

Garland is an inexpensive accent that can bring elegance to any space.

Remember it's about having fun and finding joy in the little things!

52

4. Who Says You Only Need One Christmas Tree If space allows, go ahead and put up more than one tree. You can have trees of all sizes and even create themes for each tree.

5. Presents Galore Well you don't need presents everywhere, but if you have empty boxes and wrapping paper, you can decorate your space. Presents don't only have to go under the tree. You can place them throughout your home for a fun and festive look!

6. The Bathroom Need Love Too One thing I love are flameless candles.

Adding this as an accent to your bathroom space can stay long after the holidays are gone. To add to the look, you can add some festive flowers, shower curtains or bath rugs.

Have fun this holiday season by brightening up your space and making the most of a tough situation.

Pinspiration

Peoria

Projects

Parties

Splatter Room

Canvas Painting

Gifts Cards

Much More!

1993

6520 W Happy Valley Rd

Suite B-103

Glendale, AZ 85310

623-302-7256

Happy

Holidays!

Arizona Coffea Magazine Arizona's First Black Owned Women Run Magazine

We

started this journey with one goal in mind- to create a platform that allows us to tell our stories. We will change the narrative of the Black community.

We thank all of you for your support. Thank you for sharing your journeys with us. Thank you for allowing us to become a part of your home.

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