Huami Magazine DMV Feb./March 2024 by Terry Watson

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Feb./March 2024 Vol. 2 Issue 7

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Love Is What Makes Black History Important A Letter From The Editor

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

It’s Black History Month, and Huami Magazine has produced a gallery of artistic portraits to honor 29 individuals who’ve helped us A Letter from the Editor enjoy many opportunities. Follow our social media pages to enjoy the productions, and please feel free to share and include someone who belongs and is worthy to be celebrated also. What if tomorrow didn’t arrive? All of your plans, hopes and dreams wouldn’t have a street to park on. What if In recent years, the argument has been that Black History should everything that you decided to put off until tomorrow never be celebrated 365 days per year. I agree. I am also aware there happened? There would be no reason to save for a rainy needs to be more emphasis on an annual year-round celebration of day, and you could spare someone the trouble of making our Black history. Let’s get the conversation started, and let’s talk promises. What if your last opportunity seemingly expired about what needs to be discussed. today? What would you do? While producing the gallery for this year, I enjoyed learning I’ve been told that I often seem like I do too much. more about the individuals that are showcased. These include Honestly, I feel like I am not doing enough and I’m a firm George Washington Carver, Elijah McCoy, W.E.B. DuBois, Carter believer in knowing that God wouldn’t put anything on me G. Woodson, Hiram Rhodes Revels, Sarah Boone, Garrett Morgan, that I couldn’t handle. I sometimes wonder how life would and others. It’s fascinating to learn how their perspectives on be if I chose to sit idle and accept what it presented to me. I social issues of their time resonate with the present day. As Black have found that to be very boring. In my opinion, opportunity people, we still face similar challenges, and it appears that we are is a blessing that isn’t afforded to everyone. A challenge still fighting the same fights of decades ago. I ask the question, to me is an adventure. What is the worst that can happen? what has changed? If I do nothing, I fail, and if I try I don’t, but instead learn something new about myself. Relinquish your pride and in What are we doing as a people to create better living return acquire life.race and the world as a whole? Tearing each opportunities for our

other apart with our words, actions, and slander on social media The bestour advice ever given to meunity happened when doesn’t solve problems. We need instead. We someone need to told me to make my tomorrow happen today. In doing so love one another a whole lot more. How do we do that? I have pressed my way through doors with a key that only provided. haveusalso learnedsupporting the difference I hope believe it begins Iwith genuinely eachbetween other’s whatwhether God blesses me with life can burden melove withand efforts, in business or and our what communities. We must as well. I compare it to knowing when to be confident and pray for our neighbors and truly desire to see everyone succeed. to be quiet,has because Let’s not be too concerned by what when the other person and what someone may get confused we may lack; instead, let’sitfind ways with being arrogant. to collaborate and level the playing field for us all. That is real love. Make you tomorrow happen today, but most One’s skin color doesn’t define real importantly make it count. love. Real love encompasses culture, Life is but a whisper race, and religion. When weand get to a we must in athe place where we put careourselves more about position to hear what it is welfare and survival of our neighbors tellingas us.we do for ourselves, just as much real love will already be waiting for us there.

Terry L. Watson Terry L. Watson Editor/Founder

HuamiMagazine.com

November/December 2014

www.huamimagazine.com Terry L. Watson

Publisher

www.huamimagazine.com Terry L. Watson Editor In Chief Writer Sherry Rogers Terry Hill L. Watson Writer Alana Allen - Deputy Editor Kassaundra Lockhart Writer Monica Montgomery Writer Writers Myra Davis Branic Writer Tonya Dixon Terry L. Watson Alana Allen Tamara Smith Jeuron Dove

Still Shots Photography Photographers Photographer Perfect Lenz Todd Youngblood Photography Katrina Wize Photography Photographer Shaw Photography Group Still Shots Photography

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huami.dmv@gmail.com Layout Mykel Media Company Linda Bennett

mykelmedia@yahoo.com (336) 340-7844 terry.editor@yahoo.com HUAMI MAGAZINE is published quarterly by the Email 336-340-7844 Mykel Media Company. Any reproduction of any portion of this publication is prohibited without Mykel Media Company LLC written permissionGreensboro, from the NC publisher prior to 2024 All Rights Reserved 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

FEB./MARCH 2024

DMV

CC PatchWorks LLC

Keisha James

Mom Squad Worldwide Agency

Tramika Craddock

On The Cover

Ohana Services Inc. Florene Price

Temprance Bell 20 My Natural Butter

Huami Magazine Cutest Baby

Mecca Causey

Also Featured

Thomas C. Dean III From the streets of New Orleans, LA, he has persevered to build a thriving flooring business. Learn more about the path he has taken. Conyers, GA

Mayor Reggie Burgess He is a history maker, and has become the first black mayor of a major southern city. Learn more about his life, vision as mayor, and journey. North Charleston, SC

Dr. Terrence Graham Don’t look now, but the face of founder of 5FT Productions LLC is up to something new. Learn more about it. Raleigh, NC

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Ohana Services, Inc. By Terry L. Watson - Photos Provided by Florene Price

Florene Price learned the value of hard work and education at an early age. Florene was raised with her two young brothers by a single mother who worked several jobs to afford their enrollment in a parochial school in Anniston, Alabama. The path was set for Florene to succeed. After obtaining her formal education, Florene attended Jacksonville State University and obtained a Bachelors degree in Social Work and a Bachelor’s of Science in Sociology. “Hard work and determination were in my soul. I graduated in three years with double majors, all while working part-time. In the summers between semesters, I worked full-time as an Administration Assistant at the nowclosed military base, Fort McClellan, and the Anniston Army Depot,” she says. Today, Florene serves as the Founder and Executive Director of Ohana Services, Inc. Her company offers various services that focus on helping individuals live independently. These functional skills involve parent coaching, fiscal management and budgeting, workplace readiness, behavioral interventions, time management skills, and community resource referrals. Ohana also offers mentoring and volunteering services. Their candidates are trained, screened, and matched with identified youth in need of. Each mentor and volunteer must provide a mentoring relationship with the youth and family. Through the supportive relationship/role modeling of positive behaviors and skills, the youth is provided with new techniques and skills to help navigate daily life. Learning appropriate social skills and demonstrating what was taught, Florene says, is important in helping youths and families become more independent and self-sufficient.

“Hard work and determination were in my soul. I graduated in three years with double majors, all while working part-time.”

With Ohana’s Family Support Services, Case Managers provide assistance and support in various settings such as home, schools, doctors’ offices, courts, etc. Florene says her goal is to help build natural support and teach functional skills that empower individuals and families towards autonomy. “Community support is about teaching skills, addressing barriers, and connecting to resources. It also includes identifying strengths, guiding positive approaches, and implementing new strategies to assist with managing family relationships. We help our clients build skills to deal with difficult emotions,” she says.

Florene was very intentional with selecting the name of her company. “Ohana means “Family” in Hawaiian, and I loved the meaning of the word. My daughters loved the Lilo and Stich movie, and we would watch it several times a year. I grew up surrounded by extended family members including my grandmothers, great-great grandmothers, grandfather, aunts, uncles, cousins, great uncles, and great aunts. We always had large family gatherings, and I didn’t realize how fortunate I was until I left home for college. It was then I encountered many people who didn’t have family close to them or had never experienced large family gatherings.”

Pictured above is Florene’s daughter (wedding day) and family.

Pictured below is Florene’s 90 year old grandmother and other famaily members.

After graduating college, Florene began working as a Case Manager for the United Way nonprofit organization. That experience encouraged her to find more ways to help individuals and families. After the United Way, she landed at the Urban League and served as a Program Director of a Pregnant Teen program and Fatherhood program. She would eventually work as a Mental Health counselor. “While counseling families, I found that some of their issues were simple. If their basic needs could be addressed, the family dynamics would be easier to maintain. That is how my vision was born,” she says. Ohana’s Family Support Services is still in the infancy stage, and while operating as a nonprofit, funding is a constant challenge. Another challenge is finding team members that are the right fit and helping them avoid burnout. Leading an organization requires Florene to be flexible and a clear thinker. She adds, “As a Black woman who can identify with many of the families and individuals our program assists, I have an exceptional perspective that has proven to be the differentiating factor. I impart ongoing training for all staff and volunteers to help them understand the families and individuals we serve without being judgmental. I also seek business partners who align with our mission and want to see our clients succeed.” Florene credits several members of her family for helping to achieve her dreams. First, she identifies her mother for impacting her life and showing her what the power of love looks like. “My mother gives selflessly to others all the time, even at her age now,” Florene says. She also credits her two daughters for pushing her to succeed. “As a divorced and single parent, I knew my children were my first priority. I worked several jobs to provide for them. I wanted them to finish high school and graduate college. I made sure they were taken care of first, and then I proceeded to start my own agency.” Florene says her great-great-grandmother Bina Grant, taught her how to have compassion. “She read the bible every day. She was the neighborhood mom and would take in anyone who needed a hot meal or a place to lay their head. She was our Matriarch.”

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For those who may follow a path similar to hers, Florene’s advice is to ensure you have a genuine desire and passion to help others. “In this field, you may not get rich financially, but knowing that you have changed a family’s life for the better is worth all the gold in the world,” she says. Moving forward, Florene says she plans to continue growing and scaling her business and reach others in her community. She also plans to continue spending time with her family and make positive memories.

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Author & Poet

By Myra Davis Branic Photos Provided by Zaneta Varnado Johns

Zaneta Varnado Johns is a woman on fire. Known to her readers as Zan Johns, she is an author and poet featured in over 70 national and international publications. What is even more impressive is that she is only getting started. At the age of 62, Zan published her first book of poetry. That was in 2020, yet she has been writing since 1979. Zan’s poise and beauty, both inside and out, are reflected in her poetry. Her soothing and comforting voice is saturated with a natural Southern Hospitality. Zan Johns began writing in her early twenties and was inspired by authors like Maya Angelou and her kindred spirit, Nikki Giovanni, who she reminds me of in a lot of ways. Zan had the pleasure of hearing both celebrated authors speak when they each visited the University of Colorado in the 1970s, but something lit a spark in her when she heard Nikki Giovanni recite the poem “Ego Tripping.” Seeing these black women using their words and doing what they loved to do let Zaneta know that, as a black woman, she could do it, too, and she eventually did. Although Colorado has been home to Zan for almost 50 years, her roots are traced to Hammond, Louisiana, a town of approximately 21,000 people located 45 miles east of Baton Rouge and 45 miles northwest of New Orleans. She came from a large, loving family of nine, including her hardworking parents, five siblings, and paternal grandmother. She says the nurturing she received from her parents helped her to develop into a confident, caring person. Growing up in a nearly half-black and half-white community at the dawn of integration may have led to her insightfulness. This characteristic is beautifully demonstrated in her body of work. Writing and poetry were a goto for Zan, and her passion for them followed her throughout her young life. She attended the University of Colorado for three-plus years before leaving the classroom with exceptional critical thinking skills and knowledge. Soon after, she started working in the university’s payroll department before becoming appointed director of human resources. In between that time, Zan married and had two children. In her professional career, which spanned 29 years, she brought a climate of diversity, equity, and inclusion, which again is reflected in her poetry. During that time, Zan continued to write, penning hundreds of poems she only shared with the people closest to her. At the age of 50, Zan retired and focused more on spending time with her family, traveling, staying fit, and, of course, writing. As time passed on, Zan described getting little nudges from God that she should be doing something with her writing. She says, “Her sister-in-law, an author herself, encouraged me to join the Women Speakers Association. At first, I resisted the idea because I thought of myself as a quiet person. When I worked in Human Resources, of course, I was required to speak, but once I retired, I was more laid back.”

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Zan had no interest in public speaking but later learned that the Women Speakers Association focused not only on empowering women to express themselves but also on empowering women to write to inspire. It published a series of inspiring books, each featuring women who shared their trials and triumphs. Zan’s poetry is also featured in four of them on the dedication page, including “Voices of the 21st Century: Resilient Women Who Rise and Make a Difference”, “Voices of the 21st Century: Conscious, Caring Women Who Make a Difference”, “Voices of the 21st Century: Women Transforming the World”, and “Voices of the 21st Century: Women Empowered Through Passion and Purpose.” With the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic of 2020, Zan Johns decided to take her poetry and publish her first book of poetry entitled “Poetic Forecast”. It almost instantly became a #1 Bestseller on Amazon. Zan states, “We were afraid; this was something we’ve never seen in our lifetime; I couldn’t see my family, our grandchildren; we were forced to stay inside and keep still. I looked through my poems, many of which I’ve written years before, sat at my desk, and asked God to give me the words,” she says. The old adage comes to mind, “you have to be careful what you ask God for”, because when she was finished, Zaneta Varnado Johns gave the world Zan Johns, and some of the most intuitive, and compassionate poetry. What has become her signature piece, “What Matters”, beckons the readers to search their hearts for what really matters, as demonstrated in the lines, “If your eyes met my eyes in the midst of a crisis, would their shape and color concern you? If you felt my hands as they massaged your aching body, would you care about the pigmentation of my skin?” This poem gives readers the message to take inventory of what really matters. Her poem, “One Day” explores how things would be in a perfect world. Another poem from Poetic Forecast called “Spiritual Reset” captured 2020 and encased it in a nutshell. It described the pandemic, the chaos, the politics, and the racial unrest experienced during that time. If we were to put that poem, “Spiritual Reset” in a time capsule to be opened 100 years from now, the person who found it would be able to read it and know exactly what we were experiencing. Her next book of poetry, “After the Rainbow,” captured her personal experiences about life, family, nature, and her love of diversity. She published the What Matters Journal in July 2023, and her latest book debuted in the fall of 2023.She hadn’t planned on publishing a poetry book in 2023. Urged by friends and family, she birthed “Encore” which features a poem that became my favorite, “Why I Write”. Zan’s writing has brought her full circle, from listening to Nikki Giovanni speak and writing her ideas on pieces of paper to attending Nikki Giovanni’s latest book signing and presenting the legend with a signed copy of her own book. The things Zan has accomplished in life, even after retirement, prove that it’s never too late to start doing what you love to do, and what Zan loves is “touching the world line by line.” This year, Zaneta has plans to release another book of poetry. Zaneta Varnado Johns is a woman led by her spirituality. She is a sagacious author and poet who encourages other writers to listen to God’s words. “When God tells you what to do, there is a burning…” Zan Johns is a woman on fire. To learn more about Zaneta Johns, please visit her website.

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North Charleston’s First Black Mayor

By Kassaundra Lockhart Photos Provided by Reggie Burgess Throughout the years, Reggie Burgess has been identified by a plethora of titles – son, brother, student-athlete, friend, husband, father, officer, fraternity brother, and police chief. On January 2, 2024, a new title was added to his esteemed list: Mayor of North Charleston, SC. Notably, he’s the first African American elected to the position. Burgess’s history-making achievement is one he embraces. “Becoming the first African American mayor is truly a blessing! Being the first is an important, historic accomplishment because the citizens of North Charleston made November 7, 2023 [election day] a moment in history that will forever be remembered. As for my community, I would say that being given the opportunity to receive the position of mayor is a powerful message for all communities, especially the African American community. It shows African Americans possess the skill set to lead, guide and direct,” he shares. During his campaign, his platform focused on three issues: addressing public safety concerns, improving infrastructure, and enhancing the quality of life for residents of North Charleston. Despite only being on the job for six weeks, he’s already building upon his foundation, which was established during his childhood, to reach his goals. Burgess’ journey to the city’s top seat began on the streets of the Union Heights, Daniel Jenkins, George Legare and Liberty Hill communities. Reared, with his two brothers, by his parents, Albertha and Willie Jamison, his childhood was filled with extracurricular activities that helped propel him to success. A lover of sports, Burgess played football, basketball, baseball, and track and field in his hometown. An honors winner in football and track and field, the North Charleston native (who graduated from North Charleston High School) received a full scholarship to play football for Morgan State University in Maryland. DMV - Feb./March 2024

As for my community, I would say that being given the opportunity to receive the position of mayor is a powerful message for all communities, especially the African American community.

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At the Historically Black College/University, Burgess continued to acquire accolades for his performance on the field. He was named a Sporting News All-American in Division 1-AA, was chosen for the Historical Black College Sports All-American First team and was selected to various All-MEAC (Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference) teams. Once his collegiate career ended and his hopes of playing in the National Football League (NFL) didn’t transpire, he returned to the place he knew he loved, North Charleston. In 1989, Burgess’ career in public service commenced when he joined the North Charleston Police Department (NCPD). Initially, he was a patrol officer and “worked in all districts.” Burgess says, “I joined the North Charleston Police Department to help improve communities and change the perception of law enforcement in minority communities. As well as the negative perception of lawenforcement interactions inside the law-enforcement communities.” Throughout the years, Burgess ascended the ranks. While doing so, he held positions within the department, such as the DARE and GREAT officer. Burgess also worked in investigations. Nearly 30 years after joining the police department, Burgess was appointed NCPD’s Chief of Police in 2018.

Pictured with Reggie are his wife, Tracy, son, Reggie II, and daughter, Kristen He recalls, “I was Chief of Police for five years. As a department, we accomplished a lot. I believe our community engagement initiatives have helped to bring crime down two consecutive years and have improved police and community relationships.” As an African American male working in law enforcement, the career came with its own set of challenges. However, Burgess noted the positives outweighed the negatives. “I can say that in the 34 years of working in law enforcement, my experience was good. Of course, there were moments that I questioned this profession, but working for the citizens kept me working through any issues.” Keeping his reason for entering the profession at the forefront of his mind isn’t the only thing that’s sustained him. Burgess eagerly expresses the role his family has always played in his life. “It’s personal because my family has always believed in working hard and doing the right thing - treating people fairly and making a positive difference,” he says. “Most importantly, my family believed in me. Being the first African American mayor does not stop with me. We must continue to pass the torch and keep it going for generations to come. The community must remember our legacy.” While acknowledging what he believes needs to be done to assure progress, Burgess, a member of Royal Missionary Baptist Church, also acknowledges he wouldn’t be in the position he is without “the Lord Jesus Christ who is my inspiration” and his family. He credits his loved ones for being vital to his journey as they helped him prepare for his campaign. Burgess specified that his parents, wife, Tracy, and children, Reggie II and Kristen, have impacted his life.

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I will continue to work hard today, tomorrow, and in the future for North Charleston. Whatever God has for me to do or however he chooses to order my steps, I will listen.

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Transitioning from police chief to mayor has presented many similarities between the two positions for Burgess. Both are front-facing positions within the city structure. Both require solid leadership capabilities. Being the police chief allowed Burgess to serve his community. Being mayor allows him to continue doing what he’s done for over three decades in his hometown. “Serving the citizens is what I love! I believe that my out-and-about style of being in the communities as Chief of Police will help my transition into the role as mayor,” Burgess states. “I’ll have meetings in the office as well as outside at businesses or communities. I plan to bring the government to the communities by having listening sessions with the department heads and City Council meetings strategically in the communities.” Along with his on-the-job training, Burgess has utilized education to equip him with the necessary tools to be successful. He holds a dual Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice and Sociology from Claflin University. At the Southern Police Institute, the Senior Management Institute for Police, and the US Secret Service Academy, Burgess completed advanced training. During his time as an officer, he received management skills training in team building, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills. “I love and thank both Morgan State and Claflin University for preparing me for public service,” he says. Although spare time isn’t abundant for Burgess, when he manages to acquire some, he enjoys spending it watching old movies (Western, war documentaries, African American stories and epics) and listening to music. He even DJ’s occasionally under the pseudonym “DJ 911”. Additionally, Burgess is a proud member of the esteemed Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. Now that he has officially stepped into his history-making role, what’s next for the native son who’s been chosen as the leader of the city he loves to call home? He shares, “I will continue to work hard today, tomorrow, and in the future for North Charleston. Whatever God has for me to do or however he chooses to order my steps, I will listen. I will continue to provide an environment for our citizens so they can ‘Win. Every. Day.” h

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My Natural Butter LLC By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by Temprance Bell Temprance Bell describes herself as a sunshine-loving soul who loves gardening, meditation, and spending quality time with her family. Originally from the vibrant city of Ft. Lauderdale, FL. Temprance says life has always been an exciting journey. She is happily married and blessed with four wonderful children who keep her world spinning. When the military called for her husband’s service, they found themselves in the charming embrace of Gulfport, MS. “Life in Gulfport has brought a new chapter of joy, and the slower pace and warm-hearted people here have stolen my heart, and I am eager to share the love,” she says. With a passion for making a difference in people’s lives, Temprance has dedicated the past 20 years to a fulfilling career in healthcare. In 2016, she earned a bachelor’s degree in Biomedical Science with a concentration in Pharmacy. Today, she is the face and founder of My Natural Butter LLC. Unveiled in 2021, My Natural Butter strives to empower women of diverse ethnicities, hair textures, and skin types on their journey of self-discovery and embracing their inner Divine Goddess. Temprance says, “It all began as a solution to the everyday hair care and skin care needs of my family. Combining my academic background and the hands-on experience I gained as a salon apprentice with my mother during my younger days, I discovered a harmonious way to blend science and practicality. The vision for My Natural Butter was born out of a desire to provide natural, nourishing hydration to all hair and skin types without compromising on quality and effectiveness. Our products cater to individuals seeking to cultivate and sustain a holistic hair, skin, and self-care routine that enhances their physical beauty and nurtures the soul.” Seeing her brand evolve Temprance vividly compares to watching a dream take flight. It’s an extension of herself and exudes her stance and perspective on promoting self-confidence and celebrating one’s inherent beauty that nature offers.

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My Natural Beauty’s product line comprises a curated range of natural beauty and wellness products. Temprance shares, “Envision a collection meticulously designed to cater to your hair, skin, and overall well-being. The shining stars are the Triple Whipped Body Butter, moisturizing hair, and skin oils, each crafted with precision to deliver the pure goodness of nature. Whether it’s quenching your hair’s thirst or indulging your skin, every item reflects the perfect fusion of quality and effectiveness.” Yet, Temprance says it’s more than just a product line; it’s a journey, an immersive self-care experience. Her focus is to inspire confidence, self-love, and sheer joy, and her commitment reaches beyond the confines of bottles and jars. Temprance is dedicated to procuring the overall well-being of her clients. “I love the incredible opportunity to blend my passion for natural beauty and wellness with the joy of helping others embrace their unique beauty. Crafting nourishing products isn’t just a job; it’s a fulfilling journey of self-discovery and empowerment. Witnessing my products’ positive impact on individuals brings me immense joy,” she says. Operating a company such as My Natural Butter requires an adequate support system. She says that without the love of her family, she couldn’t do all that she does. “My family is my greatest inspiration and the heartbeat of my journey. They infuse every step with love, support, and motivation. Witnessing their resilience, kindness, and unwavering unity inspires me to be the best version of myself. Their encouragement fuels my drive, and the shared moments of joy and growth shape my aspirations,” Temprance professes.

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Embarking on her entrepreneurial journey has been incredibly rewarding, but Temprance says it hasn’t come without challenges. Like any venture, she’s encountered the usual hurdles, from navigating the intricacies of production and distribution to building brand awareness in a competitive market. “Balancing the demands of running a business with family life is difficult, but it’s a delicate dance that I’m learning to master,” she says. Additionally, staying true to the values of natural, quality products while keeping up with industry trends is a different challenge, but Temprance remains determined to succeed. “Each challenge has been a learning opportunity. By maintaining a resilient mindset and viewing challenges not as roadblocks but as opportunities for growth, I have persevered. My challenges have helped to refine my approach and fuel my passion to provide the best for my customers. It’s a dynamic journey, and each obstacle has only fueled my determination to create a business that thrives amidst adversity. It’s all part of the adventure, and I’m grateful for every step of it!” So what’s next for My Natural Butter and Temprance? She says exciting things are on the horizon. “I am gearing up for a journey of growth and innovation. The focus remains steadfast on expanding my product line, introducing even more natural and effective solutions for my customer’s beauty and wellness needs. I am also committed to promoting holistic self-care. Stay tuned for exciting launches, partnerships, and experiences beyond traditional beauty offerings. I am working to create the very best experiences for my clients because their beauty and well-being deserve nothing less!” h

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Dr.

5FT Productions LLC “The Building of A Legacy” By Monica Montgomery Photos Provided by Katrena Wize Artography He is best described as a man of vision. Dr. Terrence Graham is a licensed therapist and the sole owner of Graham Moore & Clark, LLC. He is a Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist, a Clinical Certified Sex Offender Treatment Specialist, and a Distance Credentialed Counselor. Dr. Graham also works as an S.A.P (Substance Abuse Professional) with the Department of Transportation. He evaluates employees of the D.O.T as they work to regain their driving privileges after failing a drug screening. In addition to working with adults, Dr. Graham also provides therapy services to adolescents across seven different states, including Kentucky, Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, and Louisiana. Dr. Graham, a Gulf War Combat Veteran in the United States Army and an NC A&T State University graduate, has been blessed with many gifts and talents. He is a locally acclaimed author and independent filmmaker preparing to build his own studio on family land, which will be his company’s new home, 5FT Productions, LLC. Family is essential to Dr. Graham. He shares his parent’s love and support is what shaped him and his brother. “I was born and raised in Magnolia, NC. My parents raised my brother and me to value family, education, sports, and community. My father was a Vietnam Combat Veteran in the United States Air Force, and my mother, a retired Quality Assurance Clerk, wore many different hats. By setting the standards and helping me focus on what’s important, my parents made it possible for me to become the man I am today.” As a child, Dr. Graham’s love of the arts was sparked by one of his classmates. He wanted to create amazing drawings like his friend. So, he went to his number one fan for help. “While in elementary school, I had a friend named Stan Singletary who could draw. He used to draw comic book characters, and they were amazing; I was so inspired that I went home one day and asked my mom to teach me how to draw,” Graham shared. “My mother wasn’t an artist, but she taught herself so she could teach me. I’ve always loved comic books and I learned to draw Marvel and DC comic superheroes like Spiderman and Batman. I worked at it until I became good at drawing and began making my own comic books and selling them to the kids at school. It was just pocket money to buy snacks, and not knowing what an entrepreneur was as a kindergartner, it would become the first time I would make my passion profitable.” Dr. Graham’s creativity is something that has stuck with him. As a therapist, he pulls on his unique personality and gifts to help his clients and utilizes his love of hip-hop and comic books as part of his therapeutic process. As with art, there aren’t any limitations on where it can go. That principle applies to Dr. Graham, who saw an opportunity to use his talent for storytelling and drawing to create a book to use in his practice. The book allowed his clients to engage and explore topics like anger and grief. In 2003, in collaboration with his brother Eric Graham, Dr. Graham created their first action comic series, Bobbee Bee the Hater. Although the production company was conceived in 2003 with the publishing of the Bobbee Bee the Hater book series, 5FT Productions, LLC was formally launched in 2016.

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“Growing up, my eldest son had a lot of anger issues. He couldn’t see how the things he was doing and how he was reacting to certain situations were impacting the family. So, my brother and I decided to create a character based on my son. We wrote and illustrated an action comic depicting him and the situations he would find himself in,” Graham explained. “There are three books in the series: In the Mind of Bobbee Bee the Hater, Larry Long Legs featuring Bobbee Bee the Hater, and A Sad Day for Jose.” Understanding that art imitates life, Dr. Graham felt the Bobbee Bee the Hater books could help his son and other children dealing with anger issues. “Bobbee Bee the Hater is a reflection of most kids at that age who are struggling with anger issues. H.A.T.E.R is actually an acronym that stands for His Anger Teaches Everybody Reality. The goal was to use these books as a cautionary tale to show kids what happens when you allow your anger and frustration to control you,” Graham explained. “I was a School-Based Therapist for Wake County Human Services for thirteen years. The book series was an effective tool I utilized in my therapy sessions. By using a platform that will get the child’s attention, we have a better chance of helping them discover the keys to success. That is why the Bobbee Bee series was so successful.” The popularity and reach of the Bobbee Bee the Hater series went beyond Dr. Graham’s clients. “The books were being used in classrooms throughout the district, as well as by my colleagues,” Graham shared. “The downside is, although they were short action comics, in reality, kids don’t like to read. We had to find a platform that was accessible to everyone.” The Graham brothers sat down and formulated a plan of action. Due to their desire to make a bigger impact, the duo decided to turn the book series into an independent film. In 2012, the movie, In The Mind of Bobbee Bee the Hater, debuted at James Sprunt Community College in Kenansville, NC. “The community came out and supported its own. It was a rough cut because it was our first film, but being selftaught, it went pretty well,” Graham shared. “Remember, it was before we were using social media the way we do now, so most people heard about the movie through word of mouth. That said, there was an overwhelming reception of our movie and a huge outpouring of community support. People hadn’t seen anything like that done in their communities before, and they were excited! It became a whole movement. We sold Bobbee Bee the Hater DVDs, soundtrack CDs, T-shirts, and other merchandise. People wanted to be a part of what the film represented to them.” Another key to the successful reception of In The Mind of Bobbee Bee the Hater had a lot to do with their decision to cast people from their local community. “We decided what better way to connect the film with people than to make them a part of it. We cast individuals from the community, some of our childhood friends, and their children. My son, William Shakur Graham, the inspiration for Bobbee Bee, played the title role,” Dr. Graham says. Even more impressive is that William is currently working on his PhD in Education Leadership, Policy, and Human Development at North Carolina State University.

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Seeing the impact of the books and the film, Dr. Graham was inspired to explore cinema and storytelling further. “What is important to understand is that our stories are how we maintain history and culture. After the first film, I recognized I had another skill set to draw on. Since I am a therapist, I wanted to find a way to connect the new skill, filmmaking, with my private practice,” Graham passionately explained. “I decided I wanted to make documentaries on people in my community. Who better to tell our stories than us?” The next project the production company would take on was a documentary spotlighting an essential figure in the local community. “My first docu-film was based on Rudolph Becton. Mr. Becton’s barbershop is a pillar in my community. He was my grandmother’s best friend. Everybody went to Becton’s barbershop to get their hair cut. He wasn’t just a barber. He was a role model to young black men. He was the first black entrepreneur I had ever seen. He owned his own business; he was a deacon in the church and a civil rights leader. Without knowing it, Mr. Becton created a safe space for black men to gather and speak their minds. It was a place where fathers could take their sons to teach them everything from politics and religion to sports and music. Every community needs a Becton’s Barbershop.” With a new target in sight, Dr. Graham spent a year interviewing Mr. Becton and filming his story. He shares, “A big part of therapy is giving people a voice, a platform, and a space to tell their story. Telling Mr. Becton’s story wasn’t just about him. It was also about the community he served faithfully. It is about the young men he inspired and nurtured. We let the community see themselves in the life and story of Mr. Becton. In his narrative, we were all elevated.”

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In 2017, Dr. Graham received the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., I AM A DREAM Award for the docu-film, Becton The Barber. “Mr. Becton is well known in Magnolia, and stories like his enrich us all and can inspire other communities to see their greatness within. That is why I wanted to get it out there,” Dr. Graham says. Additionally, Dr. Graham has five films to his credit, including Earl of Duplin, The Cycle, and Dumpster Diving. In 2022, he received the Let’s Talk Media Productions Community Social Wellness In Film Award for Dumpster Diving, a docu-film. His growth as a writer, director, and filmmaker is exhibited in each production. “The theme in all my films is self-help and overcoming trauma. Thanks to social media platforms such as YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and Amazon Prime, I can get my films out to those who can benefit from them,” he shares. When Dr. Graham created his first comic book, he knew the arts would be an important part of his life. Now, at fiftythree, he is about to achieve something few black men have by building a television studio on his family’s land. “Now that I have done the books, the independent movies, and the docu-films, it’s time to take things to the next level,” he professes. Construction of the new home of 5FT Productions, LLC began in August 2023 and will be completed during the summer of 2024. It will be the home of the Terrence Graham Talk Show, hosted by Dr. Graham and co-host DeAndria “Dee” Blount. Dr. Graham says with the support of his childhood friends, the studio will provide a platform for guests to laugh and learn. It will also honor others with love for their accolades, accomplishments, and achievements and offer advertisement opportunities. Dr. Graham says, “I’ve always wanted to have my own talk show. I loved watching shows like The Johnny Carson Show, The Arsenio Hall Show, Stephen A. Smith, and Rap City with Big Tigger. My dream is to host a show that combines those influences.”

Dr. Terrence Graham 5Ft Productions LLC

YouTube.com/@5ftproductionsllc630 919-710-7332

In addition to producing his talk show, Dr. Graham plans to utilize his newly constructed studio to record his podcast, shoot other films, produce a sitcom, and provide live workshops and trainings. Having such a life-changing experience happen in his hometown of Magnolia is very important to Dr. Graham. “This isn’t for me. I want to make this space an opportunity for people to be seen and heard. I’m creating a platform for educators, therapists, entrepreneurs, budding artists, and musicians. My parents helped me understand the importance of family and community. Because of the land my Grandmother, Bertha Graham, left our family, my dream is coming full circle. With this generational gift, I can build my legacy upon theirs,” he says. “Along with my sons, William Shakur Graham and Xavier Graham, and with my community behind me, the sky is the limit for 5FT Productions, LLC.” h

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Music. Life. Love By Sherry Rogers Hill Photos Provided by Laura Schneider

“I was given two extreme perspectives and not enough conversation about the middle class of musicianship. I was told that either you would be a starving artist or sell your soul in the business.” To her fans, Roberta Lea is a rising musical creative ambiguously regarded as a soulful country-neo-pop singer/songwriter. While her style is eclectic, uniquely representing a fusion of musical genres, her familial roles are more precisely defined. Roberta is the devoted wife of 14 years to her husband, Nick, a retired veteran, and the loving mother to 10-year-old Vanessa and seven-year-old Michael, who seemingly have bustling social calendars of their own. When Huami Magazine caught up with Lea, she was transporting her children to piano practice, a responsibility often shared by Lea’s sister—a wonderful benefit of living within proximity to her family village. “I am extremely blessed. I have a supportive family with sweet kids, and my husband supports me 100%. We all have dreams that we’re pursuing and supporting one another as best as we can,” she says. For instance, her daughter, Vanessa, is currently participating in a play, “Black Girl Magic,” for which Lea has penned the original music. Much like her daughter, Lea’s musical journey began in elementary school, where she excelled in both piano and violin. She recalls attending a church concert series where she started exploring other instruments, including the drums. As a teenager, Lea developed a keen interest in songwriting and began crafting original songs for the church band. “The church is such a great place to incubate talent. It plays a crucial role in talent development. Regardless of your skill level, because you were singing and playing for the Lord, you would receive an ‘Amen’, or someone would tell you that you were great,” she laughed. “It was a space that said, ‘Yes,’” she added. After high school, Roberta Lea pursued her education at Virginia Wesleyan University in Virginia Beach, graduating in 2008. Following the conventional path, she eventually landed a position as a high school Spanish teacher. She says, “I was following the worn, beaten, and predictable path. You graduate from college, get a 9 to 5 job, retire, and get your pension.” When the opportunity to pursue music arose, Lea found herself at a crossroads, admitting she had no mental framework for how to navigate the process. “I didn’t know how it worked. I was given two extreme perspectives and not enough conversation about the middle class of musicianship. I was told that either you would be a starving artist or sell your soul in the business.” Preferring neither option, she continued teaching while honing her musical craft, as she describes it, “It was something that I could never not do. It was an itch I needed to scratch.”

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With the onset of Covid-19 and the transition to virtual learning, Lea, like many educators, found herself reevaluating her career. “Not all of my students logged on to participate in class discussions, and when they did, they rarely showed their faces on camera, so I didn’t know what most of them looked like. It made me consider this as an opportunity to make a change,” Lea explained. Toiling over her decision, she grappled with feelings of doubt and questioned if she was too old to pursue music full-time. “I started feeling like I was too old. I was in my 30s.” She silenced her doubts by drawing inspiration from musical icons like Tina Turner, Bill Withers, and Anita Baker, who found success later in life. “I recall figuratively talking to my 80-year-old self who asked if I had at least tried songwriting and music professionally.” Determined to pursue her dream, she shifted into a different posture, what she coined as the “pandemic pivot.” As part of her preparation, she and her husband, a realtor, devised a financial plan to support her transition to full-time music. “You really have to put yourself in a financial position where you can devote your attention without the weight of needing to make money. Having that distraction definitely interrupts the flow. This gave me the freedom to be wide open to possibilities,” Lea says. A year later, in the summer of 2020, they achieved their financial goals, becoming debt-free. “The process is called the ‘quantum leap’ because I really do believe that there is power when you finally make a decision and tell God and the universe ‘Yes’. On the very day that I resigned, I went on Twitter and posted, ‘I just resigned from my job so that I could pursue music full-time. Here I go!’ On that same day, Rissi Palmer, host and founder of the Color Me Country radio show, reached out to me and offered me a grant.” With the grant money, Lea recorded and released several singles. Meanwhile, music journalist Holly G. created the Black Opry, initially as an online blog. To Lea’s surprise, Holly G. posted on her blog, “Yay! Roberta just released her first country record. When I read it, I thought, ‘I did?’” as she laughed. Holly G. included Lea’s profile along with other Black and Brown country artists on the Black Opry Revue’s site. A few months later, the Black Opry creator invited Lea and several others to attend the Americana Music Festival. “I had never been to a music festival and had no idea what the Americana festival was,” she laughed. Despite the uncertainty, Lea made her way to Nashville to assemble with other musical talents. “On the first day, there were four of us. By the second day, there were eight, and by the third day, there were 20 of us. NPR was conducting interviews at the house, and famous artists were stopping by, and suddenly, we were a thing.” During their time together, the group developed a bond and friendship. Shortly after leaving Nashville, one of the musicians sent out a call for a performer interested in a show in New York. A featured performer had canceled, and the show was six days away. The new friends answered the call. “We did this show at Rockwood Music Hall, and this was the birth of the Black Opry Revue.” The rest is history. Lea’s career has taken off like wildfire. In addition to touring extensively with the Black Opry Revue, she ended 2022 with a fully funded independent project. In September 2023, Lea launched her debut album, “Too Much of a Woman.” Last year, the musical talent was inducted into CMT’s Next Women of Country. “And I don’t even live in Nashville,” she laughs. Roberta Lea’s story is one of determination and courage. Exchanging feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt, she demonstrates that it is never too late to pursue your passion. With her debut album creating a buzz and continuing to inspire audiences, one thing’s for certain, Roberta Lea’s journey is just beginning. h

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C. Dean III

Premier Flooring Group Information and Photos Provided by Thomas C. Dean III

The story of Thomas C. Dean III is a classic American story of overcoming adversity through hard work, determination, and guts. But this story comes with some very unusual twists and turns that make Thomas uniquely qualified to inspire others through his gifts as a community leader and public speaker. New Orleans, LA, native Thomas C. Deans was born to a large Creole family. At age 17, Thomas’ mother gave birth to him with the help of her “village,” which included Thomas’ maternal grandparents, his paternal grandmother, his uncle, and five aunts, she raised him. His mother worked a lot to provide for him, a quality Thomas also observed in his Grandfather as he held down three jobs while providing for his family. Witnessing his family’s hard work implanted sound values and work ethics in him, qualities that he continues to carry even today. Throughout his childhood, Thomas’ Grandfather was a revered “Indian Chief” in the 2nd Line Mardi Gras tradition in New Orleans. From the age of five, Thomas’ Grandfather and uncle began to teach him the art of costume making and indoctrinated him into the traditions of the Mardi Gras culture as a young Indian. This would become a defining part of Thomas’ life as he grew older. At the age of 11, Thomas was forced by his Grandfather into his first public speaking engagements. He was commissioned to speak at 28 public schools throughout New Orleans on the traditions and history of the Mardi Gras Indians. At 13, Thomas began working in the French Quarter as a busboy. Money was tight in the family, and part of earning your status in New Orleans as a young man meant dressing to impress. Thomas recalls, “We were a poor community. The only thing guys in the neighborhood had was their appearance, so dressing sharp and staying well groomed was a priority to gain respect and status.” Growing up in New Orleans also meant that Thomas would have to learn how to survive, and knowing how to fight was a necessity if you wanted to go to the playground. “To make it in the neighborhood and gain the respect of your peers, you had to be able to stand your ground and learn to scrap, and that’s what I did,” says Thomas. While Thomas worked a job and even played football in Middle School, academics were more important to his mother, specifically for Thomas to maintain good grades. “My mother’s rule was that I had to maintain at least a B average if I wanted to work during school,” he says. Following his mother’s instruction, Thomas excelled and became captain of the football team, even holding the office of Student Body President. In high school, Thomas continued to hone his public speaking and leadership skills. He was part of the speech and debate club, and in his Senior year, he was class president. As a Senior, Thomas earned a nomination through the Louisiana House of Representatives, gaining him a full scholarship to the U.S. Air Force Academy. Thomas experienced a few ups and downs while adjusting as a young cadet with the U.S. Air Force Academy. Things didn’t go as planned, and at 22 years of age, he returned home to New Orleans and dove directly into his work creating Mardi Gras costumes with his Grandfather and uncle. His uncle had since graduated to become the 2nd generation Indian Chief, following Thomas’ Grandfather, who remained the patriarch. His uncle had fallen ill and was forced to pass the Chief’s stick on to another member of their Tribe. Fortunately, Thomas had developed a formidable self-confidence and was prepared to answer the call of his family’s legacy. DMV - Feb./March 2024

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He rejoined the family processions and, that year, created his own costume. While participating in the event, Thomas’s costume and presence in the “2nd Line” procession caught the attention of the community, and people began whispering about how Thomas had outshone the new chief of their tribe. Thomas had created a bright yellow costume, and people said Thomas was the “prettier” one of the two of them. This was unusual, particularly as Thomas was quite young at the time, and this ended up creating a certain degree of jealousy and friction with the new Big Chief. The following year, when Thomas was 23, his Grandfather stepped in to resolve the matter. He determined that between the two of them, Thomas possessed the greater charisma and leadership abilities. So he anointed Thomas to the role of Big Chief and handed him the ceremonial stick. Thomas was given the name “Big Chief Bo”. Something else happened upon Thomas’s return to New Orleans: he reunited with his girlfriend Enola, whom he’d been dating since he was 17. He and Enola were married that same year, and the following year, their twin sons Thomas and Tony were born. In the years to follow, Thomas worked for MCI as a salesperson and at a restaurant at night. When MCI left New Orleans, Thomas moved into a few corporate Sales Management positions, first at Cadillac of Metarie and later with Fairfield Resorts, while continuing to work nights in the restaurant business. His next career venture would be in the flooring business, where he learned the trade and worked doing sales and installations. He also opened a dry cleaners around this time.

Elona and Thomas C. Dean

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In 2003, he decided to open his own flooring store and installation business in New Orleans, Premier Flooring Group. Things were going well, but then Hurricane Katrina hit New Orleans and turned his business upside down. The impact of the storm was too severe, and Thomas and Enola decided to pack their bags and relocate with their children to Atlanta, GA. What was supposed to be a temporary move became a permanent stay. In Atlanta, Thomas took a position as a sales manager in the flooring business to support his family until his sons graduated high school. A few years would pass while he worked as a salesperson in Atlanta, and Thomas knew there was more that his family needed. Obediently, he opened his heart and asked God to please lead him to something that would provide more financial stability to his family. God was listening.

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While attending a meeting at his place of employment, he got a call from his wife, Enola, telling him their home was in flames. Everyone was safe, but the entire house was burning down. All of their belongings, including any family photos that survived Katrina, were taken in the fire. When the fire department arrived, and the scene was investigated, it was determined that a shoe-shining device that Thomas used had shorted and created the spark that ignited the fire. By the grace of God, Thomas had recently restructured his home insurance policy to cover everything. From that tragedy grew a blessing, and Thomas was able to use some seed funding to open his own flooring business. Thomas and his family moved from Stone Mountain to Conyers, GA, and purchased a new home. In 2017, Thomas founded the Premier Flooring Group, the same name as the fledgling company he’d started in New Orleans before Katrina hit. In Conyers, Thomas worked as a community leader, helping in local political campaigns with the Splost Committee, as an Ambassador/Chair in the Rockdale/Conyers Chamber of Commerce, and as a teacher for the Entrepreneurs Academy at the Chamber. In 2019, he graduated from the “Leadership Rockdale” program, and he currently speaks as a mentor for two different organizations: the 100 Black Men of Atlanta, a national group as well as The Hills Academy representing “The Man’s Cave”, a Rockdale County-based mentoring organization that has adopted Hills Academy for its mentoring program. Premier Flooring Group has grown to become a successful business, which Thomas runs today with his two sons, Thomas and Tony. He has 15 teams of installers in the field who run a range of commercial and residential projects ranging from flooring to staircases, kitchen and bath remodeling, and basement renovation throughout the greater Atlanta area. In 2021, Premier Flooring Group was named the #1 business partner for education by the Rockdale/Conyers Chamber of Commerce and Rockdale County Schools. In 2023, Thomas founded the Premier Business Network, a 501c3 and thriving weekly Business Development Organization of entrepreneurs who meet to network, exchange ideas, and help members grow their businesses. He speaks regularly at meetings and does a range of public speaking engagements in and around the Atlanta community, focusing on the power of relationships in building a successful business career. h

Big “Cheif ” Bo

The Conyers Chamber of Commerce

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“A man can make what he wants of himself if he truly believes that he must be ready for hard work and many heartbreaks.”

Thurgood Marshall

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Mecca Causey The son of Ryan Causey and Nijalon Jackson-Causey

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