Huami Magazine Atlanta Nov./Dec. 2023 by Terry Watson

AT L A N TA

Nov./Dec. 2023 Vol. 3 Issue 1

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Your Voice is Your Ticket A Letter From The Editor

There Are No If, Ands, Or Buts About It!

Everything that will come to us in life is connected to our voice. The word of God shares there is power in what we speak. A Letter from the Editor We can speak about things that can change our outlook and circumstances: greatness, healing, abundance, prosperity, deliverance, etc. With thearrive? same voice, we have thehopes option Whatvictory, if tomorrow didn’t All of your plans, to speak of detriment and destruction. and dreams wouldn’t have a street to park on. What if

everything that you decided to put off until tomorrow never I am remindedThere of what my mother told me a young boy, “Be happened? would be no reason to as save for a rainy careful withthe adversity day,what and you you say”. couldWhen sparefaced someone troublethroughout of making my life, the outcome has always been connected to what I said. promises. What if your last opportunity seemingly expired Whatever I allowed reside in my mind about a situation, today?thought What would youto do? my actions would align with it. If I believed that I could win, I won; if I thought I couldn’t, I didInot. It all came to what I spoke to I’ve been told that often seem likedown I do too much. myself. Honestly, I feel like I am not doing enough and I’m a firm

believer in knowing that God wouldn’t put anything on me Imagine the challenges and adversity Brain Surgeons face within that I couldn’t handle. I sometimes wonder how life would their profession. They are asked to care for patients who have be if I chose to sit idle and accept what it presented to me. I suffered trauma to their head that involves bleeding, swelling, and have found that to be very boring. In my opinion, opportunity ultimately life-threatening conditions. The degree of difficulty in is a blessing that isn’t afforded to everyone. A challenge their actions within the operating rooms is off the meter; still, they to me is an adventure. What is the worst that can happen? must remain calm and complete their assignment. If the surgeons If I do nothing, I fail, and if I try I don’t, but instead learn spoke doubt and were unable to care for their patients, they would something new about myself. Relinquish your pride and in fail. They would fail if they allowed fear and disbelief to dictate return acquire life. their actions. Instead, they must speak with assurance, and by doing so, their confidence in their abilities will arise. It all comes The best advice ever given to me happened when someone down to what they speak to themselves. told me to make my tomorrow happen today. In doing so I have pressed my way through doors with a key that only God speaks to us, and He doesn’t expect us to be quiet. hope provided. I have also learned the difference between Whatever you want and need, open your mouth and speak. Your what God blesses me with and what life can burden me with body language should speak for you. How we treat others speaks as well. I compare it to knowing when to be confident and for how we feel about ourselves. You will only go as far in life as when to be quiet, because your voice will take you. someone may get it confused with being arrogant. Your voice is your ticket to the greatness that God promises. Speak Make you tomorrow about what you expect to happen happen today, but most in both moments of gaining and importantly make it count. relinquishing and giving and receiving, Life is effect but a whisper and We as the impact is the same. we must putGod ourselves in aas it must use the voices gives us, towe hear pleases position Him when do.what it is telling us.

Terry L. Watson Terry L. Watson Editor/Founder

HuamiMagazine.com

November/December 2014

www.huamimagazine.com Terry L. Watson

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www.huamimagazine.com Terry L. Watson Editor In Chief Writer Terry L. Watson Writer Monica Montgomery Alana Allen - Deputy Editor Marrissa Dick Writer Dorjae’ McClammey Writer Writers

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Mykel Media Company Linda Bennett terry.editor@yahoo.com mykelmedia@yahoo.com Email 336-340-7844 (336) 340-7844 Mykel Media Company LLC

Greensboro, NC quarterly by the HUAMI MAGAZINE is published All Rights Reserved Mykel Media 2023 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, LLC P.O. Box 20102 Greensboro, NC 27420 HUAMI MAGAZINE 2014 All Rights Reserved

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CONTENTS

NOV./DEC. 2023

ATLANTA

AffirmMePlease

Foluke Houston Gaddis

On The Cover

Kristopher D. Williams StyleStudio Branding

Percy B. Lawson 24 A Legacy of Service

Archie & Garbo Hearne

Hearne Fine Art

Huami Magazine Cutest Baby

Autumn Thornton

Also Featured

Monet Dyson She has created a fun space for everyone to splash paint. Learn more about her journey in business and life. Sacramento, CA

Eden and Kissi There is some great and delicious food in their town. Learn more about their story and more. Louisville, KY

Jarie Chantell From her own personal experiences with dealing with skincare, she has developed a brand of products to help others. Orlando, FL

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StyleStudio Branding By Terry L. Watson - Photos Provided by Style Studio Branding Kristopher D. Williams. of Lavonia, Georgia is a graduate of Franklin Co. High School. He earned a Bachelors Degree in Computer Graphics and Web Development from Westwood College. Initially, he ventured into animation, but it became clear that God had another path in mind for Kris. He is the second youngest among my seven siblings, and he shares his family bonds are incredibly tight-knit. “Our parents always ensured that we never lacked for anything, working tirelessly to provide for us, even when the path seemed uncertain,” he says. Kris says his love for church runs deep, and within his family, a treasure trove of musical talents abounds. However, Kris’s talents extend beyond music, as he has found his footing with an ability to create art. “While I can carry a tune, I’m also known for my comedic antics,” he says. In Kris’s earlier years, he was a reserved artist, gradually finding his voice and honing his verbal communication skills. Kris is also a proud father to a 19-year-old son named Kristian, who recently graduated with top-notch grades. Kris’s journey with his wife, Miriam has a touch of serendipity. He shares, “We were high school sweethearts, but life led us on separate paths for a while. When I first met her, a friend introduced me to her while she was working at Kentucky Fried Chicken in Toccoa. I asked her to be my Valentine. I remember it like it was yesterday. My family and I just got out of bible study. We dated for a while, and sadly, we broke up. Years later, I happened to find her on Facebook, and now, twelve years down the road, we are still going strong, being happily married and living a purposeful life!” Today, Kris enjoys a career as a creative professional and photographer. The name of his company is StyleStudio Branding, and it offers a variety of products and services. In the realm of photography, he provides headshot photography, catering to individuals seeking to enhance their personal brand. He also offers product photography for business owners looking to promote tangible products. His services also include event photography for parties, weddings, or graduations. On the graphic design front, his services include print and digital design services. These services span the spectrum of business branding, event promotion, and sales advertising. Additionally, he specializes in creating eye-catching materials for trade shows and conferences to help his clients’ businesses make lasting impressions. Kris shares that he always had a creative spark within, even though he didn’t fully grasp its extent until later in life. “During my school days, I was renowned for my talent in sketching cartoons and designing names with vibrant, eyecatching letters and colors. As I ventured into college, my peers introduced me to the concept of freelancing. At that point, I was clueless about what freelancers did or how to become one, so I delved into research to gain insight. Little did I know that freelancing often involves working without immediate pay to build up one’s skills and experience. Next, I embarked on unpaid work to refine my abilities and gain a genuine understanding of what it takes to complete projects successfully. That experience marked a significant departure from my previous career in manufacturing, which had spanned nearly 13 years. I was determined to escape the monotonous grind and strive for the lifestyle I envisioned. If I ever wanted to support a family someday, I knew I couldn’t continue just scraping by,” he says.

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Kris says the birth of his son from a previous relationship brought life into sharper focus as I suddenly had the responsibility of providing for him. Fatherhood was uncharted territory, but Kris saw it as a divine push in the right direction. To cope with the emotional strain of adapting to his responsibilities, Kris turned to my artistic talents, sketching whenever I had a moment to spare. Life experiences would take Kris on a journey from different places of employment and even back to living at his parent’s home. While difficult at times, Kris didn’t lose hope and shared he kept praying for a better path. He started surrounding himself with people making strides in their lives, holding degrees, and pursuing the kind of opportunities he had only seen on television. Kris was eventually presented with an opportunity that would change the trajectory of his life. He knew he had to discuss it with his wife, and it also meant sacrificing many material possessions. “Despite those losses, I held firm in my faith that God would honor His promise to me: “Trust me.” Now, as I embark on my 13th year as a creative, the choice I made has been more than worth it. I have worked with clients big and small, building my career path to what it is today,” Kris says. Kris says his wife and son inspire him. Most importantly, he shares that his mom has played a huge role in his life, as he says he had the gift of art and passed it on to him. When asked if there is anything he would change about his journey in business, he wishes he would have believed in himself sooner and learned how to structure a business in his teen years. As he looks forward, Kris says his plans are to take real chances on opportunities to live even more outside of my comfort zone. “My plans are to go after the desired opportunities that I know are out there. This also includes building lasting partnerships and business relationships.” To learn more about Kris and his brand, please visit his website. h

www.stylestudioatl.com

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“Despite those losses, I held firm in my faith that God would honor His promise to me: “Trust me.”

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Splat Studio By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by Monet Dyson Monèt Dyson of Sacramento, CA, is a young and vibrant entrepreneur. At just 25, she has formed a business that is making waves and splashes in the heart of Old Sacramento’s business sector. It is called Dipped N Color Splat Studio. A mother of a five-year-old and an employee of the State of California, Monet shares the vision for the company was revealed to her after a lifechanging experience of being struck by a drunk driver in 2019. “I was reminded of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing every moment. This awakening prompted me to set aside my career and embrace the role of a stay-at-home mom, caring for my then 10-month-old child.” While the prospect of being home with her child, she says, was beautiful, it also brought to the forefront the challenges of her personal healing journey. Monet grappled with anxiety, trying to connect with her child while simultaneously dealing with the physical, mental, and emotional toll of her recovery. Upon returning to work, she found herself caught in a balancing act, juggling motherhood, a full-time job, and the dream of building a business. The demanding schedule left little time for self-care, and the guilt of spending precious moments away from her son weighed heavily on Monet. “In an effort to spend more quality time with my child, we began painting together. These creative experiences not only provided an outlet for reducing my stress and anxiety but also forged a profound connection with him,” Monet says.

“Becoming a mom allowed me to return to my inner child and see life through his lens.”

Monet really enjoys the privilege of being a mother to her son. She says, “Without him, I would not have embarked on this journey. Becoming a mom allowed me to return to my inner child and see life through his lens. How he has so much wonder about the small things around him and how excited he gets. As I grew older, I forgot how much the small things around us matter, and I want other families to experience the joy and excitement together through art.”

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It was during one of these painting sessions that inspiration struck. Monet envisioned creating pop-up paint events for other families to share the joy of art together. The success of her first painting event, which sold out, validated Monet’s belief that she was on the right path. After organizing several successful pop-up family paint events and emerging victorious in the 2023 ‘Calling All Dreamers’ competition, Monet seized the chance to establish a unique storefront. Rather than opting for a conventional art studio, Monet created Dipped N Color Splat Studio, which welcomes individuals of all ages and skill levels. Dipped N Color Splat Studio is a place where messy or experimental art, such as splatter painting or unconventional techniques, is practiced. “Our mission is to inspire every parent and child to connect deeply and create freely. Their vision is to empower parents and children to embrace their individuality and celebrate diversity, allowing them to be their most creative and authentic selves. We focus on bringing people together while fostering a sense of community. We also provide a safe space for individuals to explore and express their artistic talents, which can be therapeutic and stress-relieving, something that is especially important in today’s fast-paced world,” Monet said. What started as a simple idea born from a traumatic accident has now blossomed into a forward-thinking, creative brand and business.” Monet says some of the challenges she has faced in business is managing it and wearing multiple hats, from operating the business, taking phone calls, emails, and responding to inquiries. “Those tasks are absolutely amazing but can become overwhelming at times. I’ve managed them by outsourcing, asking for help, and having boundaries.”

Dipped N Color Splat Studio 122 I Street Sacramento, CA 95814 www.dippedncolorsplatstudio.com 916-312-1912

What Monet loves most about what she does is the smiles on families’ faces when they learn about Splat Studio. “When they come and actually experience it, how much laughter I hear, playing, singing, and families bonding through art, really makes me happy,” she says. In addition to being inspired by her son, Monet says she enjoys seeing families laugh together and get silly together at Dipped N Color Splat Studio. “We often forget to laugh, due to the daily hustle and bustle of life. Our space was created to provide a space to laugh and connect.” While there have been some tough moments along her way, Monet says she wouldn’t change anything. “All the ups and downs and mistakes have brought me to where I am today,” she shares. Her advice to others who may follow in her footsteps is to just get started. “Stop second-guessing yourself and worrying about what others will say about you. At the end of the day, it is your life.” Moving forward, she plans to continue to grow her business, spreading joy, laughter, and creativity. If you are in the Sacramento, CA, area and looking for a new and exciting way to engage and have fun with your family and friends, please stop by Dipped N Color Splat Studio. You may learn more about them by visiting their website. h

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Eden & Kissi Afro-Carribean Gourmet Cuisine with a French Touch

Information Provided by Eden & Kissi Photos Provided by Mykel Media Company LLC

There is some delicous Afro-Carribean food in Louisville, KY. A feast of love and family in the heart of a bustling city, there’s a restaurant that’s more than just a place to satisfy your taste buds; it’s a testament to the power of family, faith, and an unwavering passion for cooking. Kissi is the remarkable owner of this culinary haven, where Afro-Caribbean flavors blend seamlessly to create a truly unique dining experience. Kissi’s story is as rich and diverse as the food she serves. Kissi is a wife, and mother of four children and seven grandchildren. She was born into a family of 19 children, and her childhood was a constant celebration of life through food. In their home, cooking wasn’t a chore but a festival of flavors, where every meal was a joyful occasion. Kissi embodies the essence of family. She lovingly speaks of her son David as more than just a child; David is her confidant and friend. He is also the mainstay of their restaurant, Eden and Kissi, located at 3912 Bardstown Road, Suite 101, in Louisville, KY. Kissi’s and David’s bond is unbreakable, and it’s clear that they have each other’s backs in the kitchen and life. Eden and Kissi’s journey began in 2014 when they started selling their mouthwatering dishes at local markets. Four years of dedication and hard work led them to their dream – a food truck. The beginning was promising, but three months into the venture, mechanical issues brought the food truck to a halt. However, this was just a brief setback in the larger tapestry of their story.

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In 2020, amidst the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, Kissi and David opened their first brick-and-mortar restaurant. It was a battle they not only fought but also won. This victory was a testament not only to their culinary skills but also to their resilience and belief in their vision and, most of all, God. And speaking of that vision, Akissi, as Kissi is also known, believes it came from a divine source. After relocating to the United States from her native home of Africa, she had a prayer point where she asked God to reveal her path. Through two vivid dreams where she found herself wearing a chef’s hat, she received her answer. From that moment on, she knew her calling was to share her love for cooking with the world. The heart and soul of Eden & Kissi’s restaurant is their Afro-Caribbean cuisine. They skillfully combine the flavors of both cultures to craft unique dishes. Whether it’s the succulent Goat, tender Oxtail, or mouthwatering Fish Curry, their food takes one’s taste buds on a journey of discovery. Everything at Eden & Kissi is made from scratch, a testament to their dedication to the art of cooking. The result is a menu that not only satisfies your hunger but also leaves you yearning for more. “I was fortunate to visit Eden and Kissi while traveling through Louisville. Immediately upon entering the restaurant, I was politely greeted by David. He was professional and knowledgeable about everything. I took food with me as I continued my trek to Indiana, but amazingly, the Red Snapper plate I was given didn’t make it very far up the road. It was so delicious, and I can’t wait to return to try more items from their menu. Kissi was equally pleasant. I wish I had more time to listen to her talk and share stories of her home and food,” says Terry Watson, the publisher of Huami Magazine. The food at Eden and Kissi is not just a meal; it’s a unique culinary experience that transports you to distant shores. But the culinary journey doesn’t end there. Next door, they’ve opened “Delicious Foodies,” a delightful shop where they serve French crepes, delectable desserts, and refreshing natural juices. It’s a testament to their creativity and their commitment to providing a diverse range of flavors to their patrons.

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My passion for cooking shines through in every dish served at Eden and Kissi. For me, cooking is not just a job; it’s a source of immense joy. My love for food is palpable, and it’s this genuine passion that infuses every bite with love and flavor.”

Akissi

Kissi says, “My passion for cooking shines through in every dish served at Eden and Kissi. For me, cooking is not just a job; it’s a source of immense joy. My love for food is palpable, and it’s this genuine passion that infuses every bite with love and flavor.” In the world of food, there are restaurants, and then there are culinary destinations. Eden & Kissi fall into the latter category. It’s a place where food is more than sustenance; it’s a celebration of life, family, and faith. Kissi’s culinary journey is an inspiration to all, a reminder that with determination and passion, even the most challenging circumstances can be turned into victories. If you’re in Louisville, please stop by Eden & Kissi to enjoy some of the delicious food. You will not be disappointed. Also, please visit their website to learn more about them. h

Eden & Kissi 3912 Bardstown Road - Suite 101 Louisville, KY - 502-384-9102 www.edenandkissi.com 17

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“AffirmMePlease” By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by Foluke Houston-Gaddis

Saving lives and saving souls. It is often said the power of life and death lies in the tongue, so it’s imperative that one be mindful of what is spoken from one’s mouth. Germantown, TN, resident Foluke Houston Gaddis, along with her husband, Rodney, has launched a new line for verbal fashion designed to empower others through affirmation. “I am a person who has discovered my purpose: to positively impact others with my gift. I can accomplish this while using my skills from my Human Resources background and my business venture, AffirmMePlease,” she says. AffirmMePlease, Foluke says, is a manifestation of her aspirations. She says since she was a little girl, she has always written down her thoughts and spoken about them. “I was raised by two parents who were Christian and Spiritual leaders who raised my siblings and me to believe in God and pray and ask God for His provision and His power. I wrote down so much that my mother told me to stop writing so much and leaving it around my house,” Foluke laughs. Fortyone years of affirming herself and believing in the power of provision that is assigned to her through the word of God has ultimately produced AffirmMePlease.

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During the pandemic, I, like many other people, felt the psychological and negative impact of Covid. Being isolated really accelerated and amplified solitude and depression. I really used biblical affirmations during that time to encourage myself. ”

Foluke says she has affirmed herself through some very tough situations, illnesses, and difficulties. During the Covid 19 pandemic, she says things really came to a head. “During the pandemic, I, like many other people, felt the psychological and negative impact of Covid. Being isolated really accelerated and amplified solitude and depression. I really used biblical affirmations during that time to encourage myself. I had them everywhere in my house, on my bathroom mirrors, on my workstations, and in other places. I also listened to them at night before going to bed to assist with getting myself out of that season of hopelessness. I also entered a 40-day fast and only digested God’s words, sermons, and affirmations. While I was going through the fast, God put it on my heart to share my affirmations with others. I wasn’t obedient, but God kept pulling at me. When I came out of the fast, I was transformed. I stepped out on faith and began sharing my vision with the world via social media.” She was scared in the beginning, mainly due to the fear of what others would ask her. Still, Foluke pressed on, and as of today, AffirmMePlease enjoys the company of 40,000 social media followers. “Having that level of support confirms that there is definitely a need for this type of content,” Foluke says. She posted her content nonstop for two years, and soon, God shared the next step for AffirmMePlease with Foluke. “I listened to a message shared with a pastor, Dharius Daniels, and he said “You’re asking God for an increase, but He isn’t going to just pop money in your pocket; God is going to give you an idea”. That made my spidey senses go off, and I realized what God was trying to tell me,” she says.

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Today, AffirmMePlease is transitioning from being a social hub of global followers to being a lifestyle brand. “As a lifestyle brand, we meet our customers where they are. We take a holistic approach to infusing our customers and followers with positivity and inspiration. We are launching our apparel, drinkware, digital, ebooks, journals, affirmation flashcards for kids, and more. We also will continue to post daily content and have created a private playlist for Spotify,” she says. When asked what she loves most about her company, Foluke says she loves to hear feedback from clients who have experienced AffirmMePlease. I consider my brand a haven for hope, and others do as well. So many people have reached out and asked me to continue to post our affirmations. I smile because that’s my “why”. We have a tool to encourage each other, affirm ourselves, and understand that we have an inert ability to bring ourselves from dark places. I suffer from seasonal depression, and during those times when my perception of my self-image is low, being able to create affirmations brings me hope and uplifts my spirits,” Foluke says. Foluke and her team of creatives have created unique and one-of-a-kind designs. Their messages are intentional and often have a ripple effect with their messages. “There are so many apparel brands available, but we wanted to be unique,” she says. Additionally, AffirmMePlease strives to reach others, even those who may not be wearing their brand but simply walking by someone who is. The impact of the message is the same.

www.AffirmMePlease.com 22

As a lifestyle brand, we meet our customers where they are. We take a holistic approach to infusing our customers and followers with positivity and inspiration.

Moving forward, Foluke shares she will continue to respond to what God has told her to do with AffirmMePlease. “We will continue to provide products and offer our clients experiences. We are an inclusive brand, and our products are for everybody,” she says. Before AffirmMePlease officially launched, the appetite for their products was apparent. “Before launching, we gave away a free affirmation devotional for those who subscribed to their website. In only a few weeks, over 200 people signed up to receive the journal. If that is any inclination of what we want to experience, who knows what is to come? We are expecting a steady increase in sales and a passionate customer base,” she says. While based in Germantown, TN, AffirmMePlease does ship nationwide. Moving forward, Foluke says one of her goals is to create partnerships with nonprofits that support underrepresented communities so that they can provide sponsorships and products. “That is another way we can stay close to our mission and values,” she says. To learn more about AffimMePlease, please visit their website. h

Percy B.A Legacy Lawson of Service By Terry L. Watson Photos provided by Demetris Lawson

When defining the life of Percy Lawson, there is actually one word that can accurately capture what it is: service. At 84 years of age, Percy is still quite sharp. His memory and ability to reference life’s experiences are quite impressive. He also dotes on his family whenever he gets the opportunity and shares his love for God without hesitation. In 1938, Percy was born in Caswell County, NC. As a child, he was raised with two brothers and one sister by his mother and father. Percy served in the United States Navy for 12 years, with four of them on active duty and the remaining serving in the Reserves. He was honorably discharged from his duties in December of 1968. He has been married to his wife, Loanne, for 65 years and recently celebrated their union in September of this year. Percy and Syretha have two children. Percy quit school in eleventh grade and joined the military against his mother’s will. He initially tried to join the Marine Corps, but that didn’t work out. Percy returned home, and his mother advised him to return to school. He stayed at home with his parents, but his father continued to encourage him to do something with life. Percy’s mind was set on the military, even though his first attempt at enlisting failed. In 1956, he successfully joined the US Navy and began serving his country. After leaving the US Navy, Percy returned to Greensboro and worked as an NC Mutual Life Insurance insurance agent. He also worked with the North Carolina Department of Corrections until he became unable to walk. Percy graduated from Rutledge College in Greensboro, NC, with an Associates Degree in Business Management in 1980. He continued his education by attending Greensboro College, majoring in Accounting, and graduated with honors. In 1982, he went into business and opened the Lawson Accounting Firm. His company provided accounting and bookkeeping services to churches and businesses in Greensboro for over 30 years. He has also worked for the Internal Revenue Service. Until 2021, Percy managed Lawson Accounting Firm, but due to his disabilities, he passed the responsibilities along to his daughters, and the name was changed to Lawson Accounting and Associates. Regarding accounting, Percy says it is a very technical field. “Most people believe you should be a mathematician to be an accountant. That part is true, but it’s not a requirement. I’ve had quite a bit of training in math, but being a mathematician isn’t required. You must also be sharp in business, have sharp morals, and be pretty exact,” he says. Percy admits that his accounting career and his career with the US Navy shaped his life.

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Family is very important to Percy. He has conducted extensive research on his family and found photos of his family members dating back to five and six generations from him. He has photos of his GreatGreat-Grandmother and Great-Great-Grandfather. “I had a strong father figure as a child. He instilled the importance of working for what we want in life. I feel like men have an obligation to set the trend for their families. Your family’s name is something that every man should be proud to carry on. In my 84 years of life, I have never been to prison, and I don’t intend to go now. I have also worked really hard to support my family,” he says. “I don’t have any sons, only three daughters. My only grandson was killed in Washington, DC, in 2002, and before he passed, I tried to instill things into his life that would be important to his survival. When I meet young men, I want to know what kind of work they do and what their interests are. My obligation is to let them know how important it is to have a job or find ways to support themselves. I pride my life on being honest with others,” he says.

“I had a strong father figure as a child. He instilled the importance of working for what we want in life. I feel like men have an obligation to set the trend for their families.”

Pictured above is a young, Percy B. Lawson. He served in the United States Navy for 12 years.

In addition to all of his other accomplishments in life, Percy is also an accomplished author, having written two published books, “From The Bottom To See, A Brand New Me” and the other “From Slavery to Ownership”. More than anything, Percy shares that he has loved the opportunities he’s had to serve his country and others through his business. While his journey has had many challenges, he shares that it has been all worth it. Percy’s advice to others is to live life to the fullest. “Never give up on life. Life isn’t over until it’s over,” he says. There is truth to what he said, as Percy is currently working on publishing his third book. h

Pictured with Percy B. Lawson are members of his family and wife of 65 years.

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Clear My Skin by JChantell

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By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by Jarie Chantell When it comes to maintaining beautiful and healthy skin, Jarie Chantell Ayala knows something about it. The Orlando, FL, resident is an Esthetician licensed in Virginia, Maryland, and Florida. Jarie enjoys a balanced and well-rounded lifestyle. She is married with four kids, having one son of her own and two bonus daughters and one bonus son. Besides being a savvy businesswoman, she has accomplished quite a bit professionally and personally in her life. Jarie is an Army Veteran and graduated with honors from American InterContinental University with a degree in Business Administration. She graduated from AVI Career Training as a Master Esthetician in 2013 and obtained her Acne Certification from Face Reality Skincare. Additionally, she has numerous Certificates of Completion for Herbal Medicine, Perfumery/ Artisan Perfumery, Makeup Application, and Makeup Artistry.

I remember smelling my mom’s clothes in her closet. That was my first love of fragrance. I watched her get ready to go out. Washing her face, putting on makeup, etc.”

The name of her business is Clear My Skin by JChantell. She shares how her journey in business began as a young girl who was impressed by the presence and sophistication of her mother. “I remember smelling my mom’s clothes in her closet. That was my first love of fragrance. I would watch her get ready to go out with her girlfriends, and she had her skincare and makeup application down to a science. First her skincare routine, followed by her makeup then her clothes selection and last, her perfume scent. As a teenager, I had acne issues, and the first skin care product I used was Noxzema. No moisturizer, exfoliant, mask, or sunscreen - just noxema. It worked okay on my skin, and at the time, I didn’t know or understand I needed a routine rather than one product. It was then I developed my interest in skincare. The more I explored and experimented with different products, the more I wanted to know about skincare and skin health,” she says. Her interest would soon develop into a career involving skin care and Esthetics. Jarie says she is unsure if the vision for her business was developed outside of her mother’s closet and her makeup, but as an adult, she would get compliments on her skin and wondered how she could share her experiences with the products she used to help others. Soon, she started to research skincare products, stumbled on Esthetics training, and continued researching how to get an esthetician license; the rest is history. Clear My Skin offers professional skincare products, as well as Jarie’s personal line of skincare products and accessories. She offers Face Reality Skincare, which is designed to help individuals with acne. There are Clear My Skin by JChantell facial cleansers, facial, lip, and body scrubs, facial masks, and facial oils and moisturizers. She also has a line of Eau de Parfums, including Into Spring Morning, which is a floral spring scent. There is also Midsumor, a citrus blend; Autumn Nights Lead to Winter, which is unisex; and Bergamont, a musk scent. Jarie also offers skincare accessories, such as skincare fridges, ice rollers, and makeup bags, and she has an extensive line of large travel tote bags and personal skincare journals. Jarie says her products are designed for everyone, including kids with sensitive skin or severe acne.

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When asked what she loves most about her company, Jarie says, “I love being able to help people with their skin health, and interacting with people and listening to their stories. I am inspired by people and fragrance. I love different scents and putting scents together to create new ones. I also love chatting with people and learning how I can assist with their skincare needs. I love giving advice on skincare and skincare ingredients and helping others who may be struggling with acne or other skin issues.” Jarie also admits that she wouldn’t be where she is today without the love and support of her husband, who gives her the freedom to work her business. She also acknowledges her son, her bonus kids, her mom, aunts, uncles, cousins, siblings, close friends, clients, and countless others, which are too many to name. Jarie says she has learned so much from many experiences and relationships. “Each has molded some aspect of how I ended up where I am today.” As a business owner, Jarie has likely been presented with various challenges. What is important is how she has responded and managed her obstacles. She says, “I have been challenged with getting the right manufacturers, quality ingredients, and even packaging can be challenging. I have also been challenged with getting approved to become a vendor at certain events. While I am still managing some of those challenges, I have applications to help manage inventory and now have access to reliable vendors and suppliers. I am building relationships, and fortunately, some of those relationships have opened doors. Another way I have managed some of the challenges with running my business is by putting more effort into advertising, social media, and education.” Jarie offers some wise advice to others who may follow a path similar to the one she has in life. “I encourage others to live life and not be afraid of what it could look like and take each moment as a moment of reflection. Be your authentic self and ask yourself: Have I made a positive impact today? What did I learn today? How can I make someone feel special today? I hope my interaction with a person may make them feel better than before our interaction,” she says. Additionally, she wants others to know there is so much to learn about skincare. “Skincare is constantly evolving; educate yourself and become a subject matter expert in your craft. Continuing education in the skincare field is essential to growth and sustainability. Having a mentor or other skincare professionals at hand is extremely helpful and, above all, stay within the scope of your license.” Jarie says if she could change anything about her journey in business, she would’ve been more confident about what she had to offer in her field and not be afraid to take more risks. I was so cautious and wanted everything to be perfect rather than take chances and fail in order to learn. Moving forward, Jarie plans to continue to learn about skin health, herbalism, and perfumery and hopes to expand on being a Virtual Esthetician and getting her Eau de Parfums in stores. She also wants to donate more of my services to nonprofit organizations. To learn more about Jarie Chantell and her company, Clear My Skin, please visit her website. h

Atlanta - Sept./Oct. 2023

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Hearne Fine Art By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by Ebony Blevins

Garbo and Archie Hearne III are leading the arts community for Black Americans in Arkansas. Garbo Watson Hearne is a native Arkansan, born and raised in El Dorado, but currently lives in Little Rock. Her parents were both educators and stressed the value of education and reading. Garbo received a BSN in Nursing from the University of Arkansas Medical Sciences in 1983. Her better half is Archie Hearne III, MD, and together they have four children and three grandchildren. Dr. Hearne is a native Californian and has been a family practice physician in Arkansas since 1983. He was the impetus for opening a Black art gallery in Arkansas. He was educated on collecting by Chico State University professor and printmaker Marion Epting. Kenneth Williamson, a Memphis artist, challenged Archie and Garbo to open a gallery in Little Rock to fill a niche. He answered the challenge, and in doing so, Garbo put her aspirations to become a nurse anesthetist on hold to open and manage the gallery’s day-to-day business and provide their children a cultural haven to be exposed and nurtured. Hearne Art Consortium is an umbrella for Pyramid Art, Books & Custom Framing, Hearne Fine Art, and Hearne Fine Art Consulting & Appraisal Services. It provides a platform for local, regional, national, and international Black artists and authors to sell and share their talents. The platform allows all people to explore Black culture using literature and the fine arts. Through each entity, they provide the community, the artists, and the authors with a voice in the arts community on every level. “We provide retail services of books, decorative art, and fine art with a focus on Black culture. We also offer community programming, including book signings, artist talks, and community lectures, as well as decorative and conservation custom picture framing, fine art appraisal, and consulting services,” he shares.

“In 1988, there was limited access and opportunities for Black artists to show and sell their works in Arkansas, so we filled a niche in the visual arts and literary community.”

In 1988, the Hearnes’ opened the Pyramid Gallery. Pyramid was a print gallery with a focus on fine art by local artists. “In 1988, there was limited access and opportunities for Black artists to show and sell their works in Arkansas, so we filled a niche in the visual arts and literary community. Frank Frazier, a

Dallas-based collage artist, introduced us to many regional and national artists. He also encouraged us to host fine art exhibitions and programming to include artists talks and workshops. Soon, we began offering custom framing, books, fine art, and fine art appraisal and consulting services. In 1998, we moved to our third location and changed our name to Pyramid Art, Books & Custom Framing and Hearne Fine Art. We created a definitive space for fine art and owned it by adding our surname, Hearne. In 2008, after 20 years of renting, we took a leap of faith and purchased real estate in the historic Dunbar community and built The Hearne Centre,” they shared.

1001 Wright Ave. Ste C - Little Rock, AR 39577 501-372-5824 - www.pyramid1988.com

The Hearne Centre houses Dr. Hearne’s family practice clinic, the bookstore, the custom frame shop, and the fine art gallery. It is also located across the street from the Dunbar Middle School, which was established in 1929 as a Junior College, High School, and Junior High School for Black students. Even more, the Dunbar community is the oldest Black community in Arkansas. Garbo says what she loves most about owning their gallery is the engagement with artists, authors, and their community. “I love when clients connect with artists and authors, and they become family. Everybody has a story to tell and we provide a platform that allows authors the freedom to be heard on their terms. I love that we are located in the heart of the Black community and the support we have had from local, regional, and national patrons over the last 35 years,” she says. Hearne Fine Art also has an expansive children’s area that houses a Baobab tree created by Atlanta artist Alfred Conteh. To date, they have hosted over 500 exhibitions and book signings.

1001 Wright Ave. Ste C - Little Rock, AR 39577 501-372-6822 - www.hearnefineart.com

Like any other business, the Hearne’s have faced some challenges in business. The biggest challenge they share is keeping up with technology and making sure they reach all the audiences to grow our business. “It is imperative to keep your brand fresh and innovative. With so many variables, juggling all the communications and social media efforts can be challenging,” they said. They have engaged in continuing education, communicated with peers, and constructed a supportive staff to manage such challenges. Their bookstore/gallery manager, Patrece Brown, has been a part of the business for 34 years, and their custom picture framer, Randy Taylor, has worked for them for 20 years. Their children have also been supportive, with the oldest daughter, Auna, coming on board to manage PR for both companies. To learn more about Hearne Fine Art and Pyramid Art, Books & Custom Framing, please visit their websites. h

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Autumn Thornton The daughter of

Armani Thornton and Gregory (Feva) Bonds

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