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LIFESTYLE LIFESTYLE INTERSECTION

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INTERSECTION

A.C. GREEN

CHICAGO’S VOICE OF RESILIENCE

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CVIC CELEBRATING 20 YEARS OF SERVICE

COMMUNITY VENTURE INVESTMENT CORPORATION

BUILDING "US" FROM THE BOTTOM UP

FROM THE BOTTOM UP

Today, Community Venture Investment Corporation (CVIC) seeks to put people first and change lives with a social investment business model to build better communities, “from the bottom up.”

About Us For 20 years, CVIC, a Chicago-based real estate development and property management company has identified and invested in opportunities and grow people and communities.

CHICAGO'S VERY OWN

SERVICES Community Investment Property Management Moving Services Real Estate Development

Black-owned business Trusted real estate investors Community-minded and purpose driven We hire and supply locally

A FAMILY OF COMMUNITY-MINDED VENTURES

LIFESTYLE INTERSECTION

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cvicchicago

communityventureinvestmentcorp

EDITORIAL ALLECEIA M. WALKER Editor-In-Chief

HBCU R.E.A.C.H. INTERNS AKELEI DAVIS Howard University Class of 2024

AUBRIANA HILLS Howard University Class of 2027 Photo Credit: UnSplash

TYRONE LOFTON JR.

LIFESTYLE INTERSECTION

Alabama A&M University Class of 2025

the

Mindful Economics From The Bottom Up

Lifestyle @ The Intersection is a quarterly digital publication prioritizing self-care and economics. The magazine intersects spirit, mind, body, family and lifestyles, we write about real estate and small business sustainability, it's the economics that lifts the social tides! The editorial mission is to stimulate creative thinking and responsible (quality) journalism to the approach of closing the economic disparities that prevents individuals from upward mobility, particularly, but not exclusively, in the black community! Lifestyle @ The Intersection is part of, CVIC is a community of ventures.

“Next Generation-Self Sustained-Bottoms Up Economics”

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LIFESTYLE TEAM BRITTANY WRIGHT Design Director

KEITH MCDONALD Chief Photo & Video Director

ADVERTISING ANTHONY OLIVER Founder & Publisher

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

Rasheda McGuire, LCPC

Adeola Atekoja

Therese Franklin

Dr. Mollie Netter

Anthony Oliver, Publisher

STUDENT EDITORS 3

Residents Engaged in Achieving Community Harmony (R.E.A.C.H.) is a Community Outreach Initiative started by Howard Alumni, Alleceia M. Walker in 1992 and reestablished through her IMPACT Difference mentoring program in 2005. R.E.A.C.H. seeks to link resources to needs in the DMV and abroad through various programs and collaborative partnerships.

AKELEI DAVIS

TYRONE LOFTON JR.

AUBRIANA HILLS

Howard University Class of 2024

Alabama A&M University Class of 2025

Howard University Class of 2027

LIFESTYLE INTERSECTION

the

CONTENTS 5 Publisher’s Corner

3 Inside the Issue

A.C. Green chats with Editor in Chief, Alleceia M. Walker

10 Cover Story

8 FAITH Holistic Health: A Journey of Empowerment By Rasheda McGuire, LCPC 13 MINDFULNESS Finding Your Purpose By Adeola Atekoja 15 PUBLISHER’S PICK Health Perspectives By Dr. Mollie Netter 17 COMMUNITY We Run The World By Therese Franklin

10 Chicago’s Voice of Resilience By Alleceia M. Walker 4

At Lifestyle @ The Intersection, our mission is to “Grow People with Community.” By Anthony Oliver "Next Generations-Self SustainedTM Bottoms Up Economic" community summit coming the fall of 2024

The most essential element of business is people. When I built StreetWise throughout the turn of the century our Mission was “to Grow Homeless Men, Women and Families” to greater levels of self-sufficiency. I’m paraphrasing, but the most essential element of business is “people”! These days, if you were to call my moving company, Alexander Movers (since 1971), you will likely get me directly. I hear from my consumers each day! This practice helps better understand the stories of the people and stay attuned to temperature of the communities in my niche markets so that we can provide service that meets their needs. This is the foundation of growing people. Make no mistake, I’m not a charity, but I believe that the heart of business is the people it serves. I apply these same principles within my business. When we develop organization charts, as important as it is to make sure that we have positions to meet the needs of the business, it is equally important to consider the life of each 5

person who will be filling each role. This creates a win-win situation for my employees and the business. Employees feel valued, leading to greater loyalty and stronger work ethics, which strengthens the overall business. I genuinely appreciate businesses (and consumer service models) who use similar approaches. My advice to the business community, from “Macro” stocks and bonds markets to the “Micro,” small bottom-up ma-and-pa businesses, is to look deeply into your balance sheets as well as your profit and loss statements and study your income line items carefully. Ask yourself if your business relies on people to achieve your goals. Whether employee or consumer, if your answer is yes, then be sure to consider their lifestyles as you make decisions for your business. Review your mission/vision for consistency and meet me here in the future to discuss our Lifestyle @ The Intersection from the bottom up! I’m in the business of humanity.

Our December 2023 cover spotlights an example of a man who exemplifies the ideals of putting humanity back in business. Mr. A.C. Green has a very powerful economic platform that strengthens the social fabric of his demographics. As a listener (I don’t know him personally) of the A.C. Green show for years, I enjoy hearing the “people” testimonies about fixing their foreclosure problems. This is real, real from the bottom up! You’re going to enjoy his story trust me. Bottoms up holiday to my L@TI editorial team, moving company men/women, property management soldiers up from the street, and our real estate investment administration, I honor you! On the behalf of Corey Oliver, CEO, and our

our entire mindfully focused team, Our gift to you, “Your Home for the Holidays,” Mr. A.C. Green! Let’s shop, shop it up on real, real, and check us out at communityventureinvestmentcorp.com. Anthony Oliver Publisher/Founder

By Rasheda McGuire, LCPC As a black female entrepreneur, I have embarked on a transformative journey in the realm of holistic health, owning and operating both a mental health clinic and a wellness spa. My mission is not just about providing services; it’s about fostering an environment that empowers individuals to prioritize their well-being, both mentally and physically. Holistic health is a comprehensive approach to well-being that considers the interconnectedness of the mind, body, and spirit. In a world where stress and mental health issues are on the rise, I felt a deep calling to create spaces that would cater to these needs while acknowledging the unique challenges faced by marginalized communities. At our mental health clinic, we provide a nurturing and inclusive space for individuals to seek support for their men-

tal health concerns. We understand that the stigma surrounding mental health disproportionately affects minority communities, making our clinic a sanctuary for those who often feel overlooked. Our dedicated team of therapists and counselors, include many women and men of color, offer culturally sensitive care, ensuring that our clients feel understood and valued. In our wellness spa, we complement our mental health services with a range of offerings designed to promote holistic well-being. From therapeutic massages to wellness classes, we encourage self-care as an integral part of maintaining good mental and physical health. Our wellness spa serves as a refuge from the stresses of daily life, offering a respite for our clients to rejuvenate their spirits. Our journey as a black-owned business in 8

the holistic health industry is more than a business endeavor; it is a profound commitment to empowering our community. We prioritize local employment, support fellow minority-owned businesses, and provide mentorship opportunities, particularly for aspiring women entrepreneurs of color. Holistic health isn’t just a trend; it’s a way of life, a philosophy that underpins everything we do. It’s about recognizing that mental health and physical well-being are inextricably linked, and empowering people to take control of their health in a

nurturing and culturally sensitive environment. Together, we’re not just promoting holistic health; we’re empowering individuals and communities to thrive and succeed while living their best life. Website: www.mcguiretherapy.com

Chicago’s Voice of Resilience: An Insight Into The A.C. Green Show By Alleceia M. Walker In December 2008, A.C. Green launched “The A.C. Green Show,” marking the beginning of his journey into the world of entertainment. As the youngest among six siblings, he hails from a family deeply rooted in the church, with his father serving as a prominent pastor in the city, and his mother actively engaged in both the church and community. AC’s passion for music, particularly gospel, emerged as his primary love. In the early 2000s, he translated this love into action by producing live TV shows and performances for renowned gospel artists. Known by the moniker “The Man That Makes Things Happen,” A.C. Green pursued his musical education at Chicago State University, where he honed his skills under the mentorship of the musical genius and Chicago native, Eddie Thomas.

Chicago, often referred to as the Windy City, is a place where resilience and advocacy run deep. It’s a city with a rich political history, and at the heart of its airwaves is A.C. Green, a radio host who brings the gritty essence of Chicago to the forefront. Recently, I had the privilege to dive into the world of A.C. Green and his unique journey in Chicago’s radio landscape. I learned what sets Chicago’s radio and community advocacy apart and discussed A.C. Green’s vision for the future. A.C. Green’s presence on Chicago’s radio waves is a testament to the city’s distinctiveness. Chicago is known for its gritty political landscape, and A.C. Green’s show reflects this energy. It’s a place where challenges are met with unwavering determination, and this is mirrored in the resilience of the city’s radio and advocacy scene. For many Chicagoans, buying or maintaining a home is a significant part of their journey. A.C. Green acknowledges the importance of financial preparedness. Saving money, as he emphasizes, is a crucial step to set oneself up for success in this endeavor. He often discusses financial strategies to help his listeners on the path to homeownership. Chicago’s housing market is evolving, and A.C. Green keeps a watchful eye on these changes. He notes a trend where major Wall Street companies are increasingly investing in rental properties. It’s a shift worth noting, and A.C. Green provides insights into what this means for the average Chicago resident. What lies ahead for A.C. Green’s show and his work in the Chicago community? It’s all about helping more people with added resources. His mission is to continue making a positive impact on the city.

Here are a few tips to help minimize financial loss and improve wealth during this holiday season: Create a Budget: Establish a budget for holiday spending that includes gifts, decorations, and entertainment. Stick to this budget to avoid overspending. Set Realistic Expectations: Manage expectations by discussing gift limits with family and friends. This can reduce financial pressure and ensure everyone is on the same page. Look for Deals and Discounts: Take advantage of sales, discounts, and promotions when shopping for gifts. Many retailers offer special deals during the holiday season. Use Cash or Debit Cards: Consider using cash or debit cards instead of credit cards to prevent overspending. This way, you’ll only spend what you have. Review and Adjust Investments: Take a look at your investment portfolio and consider making adjustments based on your financial goals. Consulting with a financial advisor can provide valuable insights.

Remember, the key is to be mindful of your spending, prioritize what truly matters, and find ways to enjoy the holiday season without putting excessive strain on your finances.

Listen to The A.C. Green Show in Chicago on V103, Soul 106.3, Rejoice 102.3 and Inspiration 1390

FINDING YOUR

PURPOSE By Adeola Atekoja

It is either false humility, identity crisis or just a clear-cut case of lack of self-awareness when you operate under capacity, as in, below your freely given natural endowments. We live in a world where everyone has the potential to make a difference, but this is yet to be the reality of all. Let’s discuss one of the most important subjects in life, purpose. This is an inference from my book, “Connecting the Dots.” I know a lot has been said concern-ing this subject and perhaps you might have heard it a million times. So, the subject is not new. But perhaps I will

show a new approach to it in this write-up. No matter how we put it, the subject of purpose is one that needs to be understood. Why? Because that is what the entire life is all about. If there is no purpose for our existence, we have nothing to do here. People who have discovered their purpose and are living it are the ones living a true life. People who have not are just about to find their own life. Perhaps, it’s other lives they are living. The objective today is to discuss how purpose can be discovered,

understood, and lived. Like Robert Byrne once said, "the purpose of life is the life of purpose." Yes, those two powerful phrases are very important – the purpose of life and the life of purpose. When we understand the purpose of life, we will understand why it must be lived purposefully. And that is where joy and fulfillment come from.

All we need to be successful in life and act on that potential is to simply know how to get started, remain consistent, and pursue success with a purpose at heart. Whether you believe it or not, at this very moment, you have the potential and ability to accomplish extraordinary things in your lifetime. GO and work out your success today!

For anyone who is looking for lasting happiness, this is the secret. This is where happiness lies. When you continually live only for the reason why you are created and brought to this earth. Then you are the happiest person on this earth. There is no need dillydallying or giving false hope about having lots of achievements without fulfillment. Regardless of the number of your possessions, if there is no fulfillment, it is a big waste of life. Your life is only meaningful when it’s being fulfilled.

Adeola Atekoja, Author. Transformational Mindset Coach, Self-Discovery Expert and a Public Speaker. https://adeolaatekoja.com/book

How do you discover your Purpose? If you dont know what to spend your life on, then follow the PATH. P -PASSIONS (follow your interest) A - ABILITIES (UNIQUE)(spend more time in your unique abilities) T - TENACITY (What don’t you give up on? Pay more attention to that) H - HELPFULNESS (Be more service oriented towards family, relationships, etc.

By Dr. Mollie Netter “When health is absent, wisdom cannot reveal itself, art cannot manifest, strength cannot fight, wealth becomes useless, and intelligence cannot be applied.” – Herophilus (335-280BC)

Herophilus was an Alexandrian physician believed to have been the first to study human anatomy. I am not a historian; therefore, my mind cannot even quantify how long ago this was. However, I know that BC stands for "Before Christ." His health and wealth perspective captured in the above quote still holds extreme relevance. As a clinician, I have had the opportunity to care for people from all walks of life and I couldn't agree more with the pricelessness of good health. It does not matter how one looks or where life has taken them; we can all agree on the universality of the significance of wellbeing. Perhaps Theophilus may be far removed from our perspective, but as you read through this, you are probably using an Apple device, and so I will assume that you are familiar with the genius behind the invention, Steve Jobs, whose life was tragically cut short due to Pancreatic cancer. On his deathbed, Jobs stated, "You can employ someone to drive the car for you, make money for you but you cannot have someone to bear the sickness for you.

Material things lost can be regained. But there is one thing that can never be found when it is lost – “Life”.” When all is well, it is human to seldom think that our health is the most priceless treasure we must guard as we journey through this Earth. However, when it comes to wealth, we may all agree that there is no way that a prudent investor can trust anyone with their hard-earned money without due diligence to verify worthiness of an investment. The same applies to the loaning institutions; there is no way a lender can give anyone a loan without making him or her go through rigorous creditworthy checks. For example, When I was about to buy my home, I went through the most annoying, frustrating, and difficult process before the bank approved that loan. In hindsight, I believed this was a required process, but at the time, I could not help but wonder if this was some sort of discrimination. I remember the day my broker called to tell me the good news about the loan approval; instead of jumping for joy, I felt numb and could not help throwing a little sarcasm at the broker. “Are you sure this is over?” And he said, “yes. They do not need my blood type?” ...and he laughed. Similarly, our health must be regarded as the most priceless asset. We should guard it and demand the best clinicians to collaborate. We must empower ourselves to

by having enough knowledge to make well-informed decisions instead of letting clinicians decide for us on how our health should be managed. Modern medicine has excelled in strides. We live long, but often, the quality of life is substandard. Why not strive for both quality and quantity of life? Almost all diseases do not just happen overnight but are a consequence of years of neglect. Can the body self-heal? Absolutely. Whether for or against medications, one truth remains - there is nothing medicine can do that our bodies cannot do. Medications may work because the manufacturers developed them to mimic what the body can do independently. Just like a car, our bodies need maintenance. Unnecessary medical costs can be avoided if one becomes prudent in health maintenance. The Covid-19 pandemic made modern society rethink its priorities regarding health and wealth. Mitigating the thenunknown virus forced governments to make the most drastic moves in contemporary history - shelter in place or lock down. For the first time, the intersectionality of health and wealth became center stage. In the end, the health of populations took precedence, leading to huge financial losses. People lost jobs, businesses shut down, but lives were saved, and now nations have another chance to rebuild. Post-pandemic, let us choose intentional living and make those active decisions to get checked up instead

of waiting until we run ourselves down to the point that we can not return to wellbeing. The true essence of healing lies in addressing what may have happened for the disease to manifest. People do not just wake up and become sick; rather, most conditions are an accumulation of years of negligence and unaddressed traumas. Health can translate into wealth at many levels, but wealth may not translate to health. May we aspire to be our healthiest selves to realize our true potential in whatever we do. Healthy minds and bodies are the essence of how one should define wealth. I look forward to having meaningful conversations as we explore and look at self-healing through lifestyle changes and when medication use becomes inevitable.

By Therese Franklin As I look upon so many races from past to present, I see many melanated runners of all shades. Both male and female take to the pavement with determination and dedication. This holds no monetary gain for us, and as the elites have already completed the race by the time my run mates and I approach mile three to six, it leaves the question of why do it? One reason is that it gives me a traveling experience out of this world. Without my marathons, the places I have been would have never made my personal travel list. To run a marathon in different states and countries is an exciting experience that makes me want more and more. When my feet hit the pavement there is no-one else but the Earth, myself, and God for miles. It’s an unforeseen therapy session that can provide clarity and resolutions to situations that once appeared unsolvable. Not to mention the wide network of acquaintances I meet that share the same goal which is to conquer the ‘Finish-line’. In doing so, you earn a medal that completes one of the fifty states you are running in. Maybe the larger goal is to earn all seven continents. Wouldn’t that be a legacy! As I write this, I am speaking my legacy into existence. 17

I began my running journey in 2015, earning the first of many medals. Since then, I have completed thirty-eight of the fifty states, four of the seven continents, and four of six major marathons hosted by Abbott. The completion of each marathon builds character, discipline, strength, confidence, and teaches one how to face adversity. It demonstrates that we can accomplish anything we put our minds to no matter the situation you are in. When I begin running, I leave behind my scoliosis and kidney issues to achieve the highest level of my strength, providing me with emotional stability, physical endurance, and not to mention the fountain of youth. Running is not a sport; it is a lifestyle change that has an enormous running family attached to it. Our community is made up of fabulous people from all over the world. Yes, we do run the world… literally! A reflection of you will be on the pavement at the finish line waiting with open arms whether you walk, run, skip or just volunteer. The health benefits are priceless, and the experience is unmatched. I hope that I’ve spread enough enthusiasm and encouragement to see more of my melanated people on the pavement path!

JOIN US! MRDS Saturday Run – Seven at 7 Saturdays at 7:00am LaRabida Children’s Hospital 6500 South Promontory Drive – Chicago Facebook – Strava Chicago Black Runners ‘The Movement’