Huami Magazine Florida March/April 2021

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March/April 2021 Volume 1 Issue 1 FREE

Bridging The Gap for Minorities in Aviation Florida - March/April 2021

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Your Purpose Is Not A Laughing Matter A Letter From The Editor A long time ago, when I was a much younger man, and a student at the most prestigious high school in the city of Greensboro, something happened to me that would change my life forever. This segment of time was during my fourth period English class, and the first week of a new Letter from the Editor schoolAyear.

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

Back then I was mischievous, very sarcastic, and a self-proclaimed ‘class clown’.

I would try to setdidn’t the tone for my amongst my What if tomorrow arrive?

Allclassroom of your plans, hopes classmates with jokes, and I thought, the bigger the audience, the grander and dreams wouldn’t have a street to park on. What if my performance in this class, the teacher everythingcould thatbe. youHowever, decided to putparticular off until tomorrow never was a formidable opponent.

She was short in stature, very elegant happened? There would be no reason to save for a rainyand full of finesse, to lock in on me like athe torpedo before the tardy bell day,and andseemed you could spare someone trouble of making even sounded. Her name was Mrs. Kerr, and I would soon learn that she promises. What if your last opportunity seemingly expired wasn’t one to play around.

today? What would you do?

One day while in English class, I began to get comfortable and execute been told that often like and I doatoo much. my form ofI’ve cheap humor.

I ledI off withseem a cough, slight sneeze; silly Honestly, I feel like I amwell notwith doing enough and I’m ainto firmposition. acts that usually worked pretty getting my audience believer in knowing that God wouldn’t put anything on me in But my act was snuffed out immediately. “Don’t you sneeze or cough that I couldn’t handle.

I sometimes wonder life would my. Take that outside”.

Those were the words spokenhow directly to me and I knew she was serious Kerr what stareditinto my eyes.toFrom be if I chose toby sitthe idleway andMrs. accept presented me. that I point on, I never laughed in her class unless I was led by her permission to have found that to be very boring. In my opinion, opportunity do so. is I must admit that my ego was a little bruised, but I would eventually a blessing that isn’t afforded to everyone. A challenge get over toit. me is an adventure. What is the worst that can happen?

If I do nothing, I fail, and if I try I don’t, but instead learn

In so many words, she helped me to understand my purpose in no something new about myself. Relinquish your pride and in laughing matter. I genuinely appreciate Mrs. Kerr. She helped me to return acquire life. understand the English instruction she provided was not a laughing matter, and I or anyone else wouldn’t prevent the learning and growth of other students.The best advice ever given to me happened when someone

told me to make my tomorrow happen today. In doing so I have pressed my way through a keytothat only As the school year progressed, I begandoors to lookwith forward my fourth hope provided.

I have also learned the difference between period English class and spending time with Mrs. Kerr. I soaked up every bit what God blesses me whatevery life can burden me with of information that she had towith offer,and studied poem, and recited them back to her withto precision, and made as well. I compare it to knowing when be confident and it a point to show thatquiet, she changed whenher to be becausemy life by stopping me may fromget robbing myself of someone it confused sound instruction. with being arrogant.

Mrs. Kerr obviously loved me and Make you tomorrow her other students, thousands of them happen today, but most she encountered for several decades of make it count. teaching.importantly She is my hero.

Students like me Life is but a whisper all deserve a hero such as Mrs. and Kerr in their we either must put ourselves a or classrooms, in the form of ainpeer position to hear what it is instructor. She helped me to understand telling us. that my purpose was no laughing matter.

www.huamimagazine.com Terry L. Watson

Publisher

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mykelmedia@yahoo.com (336) 340-7844 HUAMI MAGAZINE is published quarterly by the Mykel Media Company. Any reproduction of any portion of this publication is prohibited without written permission from the publisher prior to doing so. Mykel Media doesn’t accept responsibility for statements made by individuals featured or advertisers. Comments concerning this publication Greensboro, NCeditor by may be submitted to the 2021 All Rights Reserved 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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Terry L. Watson Editor/Founder

On The Cover

Photo by Shaw Photography Group

CONTENTS

MARCH/APRIL 2021

FLORIDA

Elasticity Hair Care

Sonja Molette

On The Cover

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The 99th Squadron Ramone Hemphill

Christian Branding

Arshawna Warren

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Love Without Limits

Monica Moyer

Perfect Skin Code

Kimberly Brown

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Also Featured

Jaquilla Ross Meet the face and founder of Ross Financial LLC. Milwaukee, WI

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Jay Maxwell The tool of choice for this artist is a can of spray paint.

Greensboro, NC

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Railyn Bozeman She is the cutest, and has been selected as Huami Magazine’s Cutest Baby.

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Bridging The Gap for Minorities in Aviation

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Florida - March/April 2021

By Gamal Williams Photos by Ramone Hemphill Flight (noun) – the action or process of flying through the air. For Ramone Hemphill, flying is a dream come true.

A 9-year licensed pilot and Charlotte, North Carolina native, Ramone now resides in Melbourne, Florida working as a Systems Engineer in Avionics. “The first interest I had in aviation was in high school. I was in this group called The Explorers Club, and I was looking into Air Traffic Control. I got to go to an air traffic control tower for the first time. That’s what got me geared up thinking about aviation in general. Fast forward, I ended up with a career spanning from aviation electronics (avionics) and flight controls, to flight test engineering. From that point, it was about getting a deeper understanding of aviation.

The idea early on for me was that if I could obtain my pilot’s license, I could have a deeper operational understanding of it,” he says.

Ramone recognized the lack of African American representation in the aeronautics field. While African Americans are present at airports as baggage handlers, flight attendants, or security guards, they are vastly under-represented in the overall aviation community. Aeronautical engineering, air traffic control, aviation maintenance, all have low representation of African Americans, but none more than aircraft pilots. According to a 2018 report by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, less than 3% of all commercial pilots in the US are African American. Ramone wants to change that.

Along with his wife, and Board of Directors, Brinkley Wright, and Richard Winchester, Ramone formed The 99th Squadron in Brevard County, Florida. The 99th Squadron, so named after the first African American fighter squadron, the 99th Pursuit Squadron, is a non-profit organization dedicated to bridging the gap between the aviation field and our community. According to their website, The99th.org, Ramone and his team “expose our youth to the vast opportunities of the aviation industry, starting with the most basic fundamentals of flight for middle school and high school students.”

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The 99th offers a “free to students” 5-week curriculum, or “Flight Plan” as his website states, that involves 1-hour courses on Saturdays, with a 30-minute homework review every Wednesday to gauge student comprehension and potential topics of discussion. The 99th teaches students a wide range of fundamentals: Aerodynamic Principles, Instruments & Engines, Air Traffic Control, Decision Making, Charts, Navigation Systems, Aviation Weather, and Weather Services.

At the end of the course, each student (along with a chaperone) gets to take to the air for a handson flight, allowing students to co-pilot and apply what they have been learning.

“I’ve had the most fun introducing aeronautics to people, specifically people that didn’t realize there are hundreds of airports, not just the big ones, but smaller ones. People don’t realize that ‘Hey, you can do this too. You can get your pilot’s license and here’s what that looks like,’” Ramone explained. “I have seen that people don’t see this as a tangible field. I had one student tell me they were thinking of being a flight attendant… but there are other things besides that. That tells me in their day-to-day, they are in an environment that is limiting their options. We don’t even limit the program to being a pilot, it just starts out with that because that is what the industry is centered around. But we expose them to all facets of aviation,” Ramone says.

“I’ve had the most fun introducing aeronautics to people, specifically people that didn’t realize there are hundreds of airports, not just the big ones, but smaller ones. People don’t realize that ‘Hey, you can do this too. You can get your pilot’s license and here’s what that looks like.”

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Once the course is over, Ramone and his team encourage the students to stay involved in the aeronautical field. “Once they complete the program, my idea of the best way to keep them engaged is to keep them in the air. We may not be able to get them in the air every week or every month, but we encourage them to continue in the program through our Continuing Education initiative, where we take them on site visits. We’ll also collaborate with other local STEM initiatives, namely the General Chappie James, Jr. Chapter of Tuskegee Airmen Inc., the South Brevard County Task Force, and the Rising Star Leadership Development.”

Jason Webber was one of those students. The 17-year-old high school senior has always dreamt of being a pilot. “I love airports. When I found out about The 99th, I was excited about the opportunity. My first flight was a lot of fun. I was a little nervous at first, but then what we learned about the instruments and knowledge of the aircraft kicked in,” Jason says. When asked what he did immediately after, he laughed. “I posted a video of it to SnapChat! All my friends thought it was cool and asked how I got to do that.” His mother, Melody, enjoyed her flight as well. “I was a little nervous, but I loved seeing Jason so focused and excited. He has talked of joining the Air Force. Hopefully, this program will inspire him to keep going,” she says.

The 99th Squadron looks for the best in every child, regardless of past academic performance. “The whole point of this is to get the children to dig in a little deeper than what they are getting in school, and actually be able to apply what they are already learning in school to something that is tangible,” explains Ramone. “I’m a firm believer in that.

We don’t exclude children because of their grades. A child’s poor performance could be because they haven’t found something that interests them. This could be it for them,” says Ramone.

The 2021 fundraising goal for the upcoming September class is $5,000 which would cover the five-week course and flights for ten students. If you would like to donate to The 99th Squadron, please visit their website. h

Ramone Hemphill The99th.org

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Perfect Skin Code

By Arielle Kilgore Photos by Kimberly Brown

Confidence is not just a feeling. It is a look.

Kimberly Brown, a dermatologist, understands the importance of having great skin and wants to share her talent and knowledge with everyone.

Perfect Skin Code, founded by Kimberly Brown, is a personal brand that prides itself on helping people achieve great skin, and keeping it. Brown’s company can be found in St. Louis, Missouri.

She shares how her clients would come into her office and ask how she was able to get her skin so perfect. “Truth is, you can’t have someone else’s skin, you just have to develop a code that works for you,” she says. Some of her products include a vitamin C serum and retinol for discolored skin. Her company also provides tools and tips for the face that help educate the masses. While most people believe that skincare has to be strenuous and costly, Brown consistently demonstrates that having good skin can be as simple as one, two, three.

Brown has served as a professional dermatologist for ten years. While in her capacity, she has dealt with discoloration of skin, and other facial problems such as acne.

Perfect Skin Code LLC is about finding your secret combination that can give you clear results. She released her product line on January 26, 2021, with the goal to help people not ignore their skin anymore, but to embrace it and feel better about themselves. Moreover, since Covid-19 has reached its one-year anniversary, she believes that achieving what you want most, should not stop you. Not even a virus.

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Although skincare can make or break any opportunity for anyone, Brown believes that women of color should be invested in more. “Women of color are at a deficit when it comes to taking care of what’s important. I just decided that it was time to kind of reach out beyond the confines of my office and help educate women about their skin, especially African American women,” Brown explained. In an article published by the New York Times, women of color are more difficult to treat because of their high frequency to contract dark spots, discolorations, yellowing, or other problematic skin conditions. Even three years after the release of the article, a few brands, including Brown’s, have developed lines specifically for African Americans and their problems. “We tend to either ignore our skin or we don’t know what to do based on the special needs that we have.

That’s what made me decide to start by providing education and then branch out into offering a few products,” she says.

Furthermore, the inspiration for her work does not only come from the women in her community, but her personal experiences also drive her to make other people’s lives as uncluttered and as close to as arrant as she is today.

Several years ago, Brown was diagnosed with breast cancer.

Her diagnosis then helped her achieve what she was made to do, which was help other clients succeed in their dreams and in hers. Writing down her plan and doing things one day at time is how Brown met her goals. She also explained that having a support system and having specific people to do things she isn’t able to, aid in her accomplishments as well. “We all have strengths and weaknesses, but we must know them and ask for other ideas and expertise. This is how people grow and become great. It takes a village,” Brown said.

Moving forward, her goal is to keep making products, specifically for African American women. As a dermatologist who’s worked in skin for 10 years and has concise knowledge on women, it is her duty to continue to empower and educate those around her. “Vanity is not a bad thing, neither is wanting to look good. I believe you shouldn’t be deprived of that. It should be a part of who you are,” she says.

To learn more about Kimberly Brown and the Perfect Skin Code product line, please contact her directly or visit her website. h

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By Ayana Bryant Photos by Jaquilla Ross Far too often, so many people suffer the devastating consequences of bad spending habits. This issue seems to be a direct result of those same individuals being uninformed on the concept of financial literacy.

Milwaukee native, Jaquilla Ross of Ross Financial has made it her mission to educate and uplift her community to achieve financial freedom and regain control of their lives.

After graduating from Marquette University in 2011 with a bachelor’s in Accounting, Ross then immediately went on to receive her master’s in Professional Accountancy from The University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, graduating in 2013.

After experiencing financial hardship of her own, Ross decided that it was her calling to educate others on how to avoid making the same mistakes she did.

Launching Ross Financial, LLC in July of 2016 would help her do just that, and after almost five years in business there is no denying the impact that Ross has made in her community. The relationships she creates with her clients is something she sees as financial therapy. She states, “I’m not a therapist but my coaching sessions are something that really motivates my clients to change their habits.”

Ross Financial prepares personal and business income tax returns, handles bookkeeping and accounting services for small to medium businesses. They also offer financial coaching services. Ross has been able to help her local community save nearly 30,000 dollars in taxes, successfully serving nearly 100 clients every tax season.

Throughout the remainder of the year, Ross Financial facilitates financial literacy workshops with organizations such as the African American Chamber of Commerce in Milwaukee, and the North West Side Community Development.

Ross still holds a strong understanding of how it felt to experience her own financial struggles and how a lack of knowledge got her to that place. That period in her life is what really keeps her motivated to continue moving forward and helping others.

“I’m not a therapist but my coaching sessions are something that really motivates my clients to change their habits.”

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Ross adamantly states that it is critical people understand the importance of managing their finances. When asked what major advice she could offer to someone just starting out Ross pushes three solid points. The first one is budgeting, creating a monthly budget will help to show you how much money you have and exactly where it is going. Secondly, be sure to save! A person should always pay themselves first by saving at least 5-10% of their income. Finally, plan for retirement no matter how young you are, “The younger you are the better! Starting off early just allows for more money you will have in the long run” says Ross.

Last year in 2020, Ross Financial helped to secure over 50,000 dollars in grants and payroll protection program funds for clients amid the COVID-19 pandemic. They’ve also had great success in restructuring many of its client’s tax structures. As a result, her clients were able to maximize their refund and nearly double what they originally assumed they would get back.

Along with the success of her business also comes its challenges. One that Ross has faced as a black female business owner has been fighting to be paid her worth. As a woman in this profession Ross notices that it is usually men who are more likely to challenge her prices, and it’s something that she has found to be quite disappointing.

Nevertheless, Ross remains determined and says this isn’t something that has discouraged her in her work.

The future looks bright for Ross Financial.

As the business continues to take on more and more clients, Ross plans to expand her tax business by one day acquiring an office space with a full staff of tax preparers.

However, her current focus is to continue facilitating workshops and securing speaking engagements to educate anyone who would like to learn.

Ross’s ultimate goal is to help her clients make money, keep money, and save money! Her hope is to one day become a global brand and teach others how to build economic wealth.

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Elasticity Hair Care

By Ayana Bryant Photos by Livin For Media Photography

Many industries endured a major hit from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic in early 2020. The world of cosmetology and small businesses within it came to a complete halt by the orders of local and state governments everywhere, with some being unable to sustain the blow. Local Detroit salon owner and businesswoman, Sonya Molette managed to keep her 20-year-old business alive and even used her time during the shutdown to develop a new venture.

Molette, born and raised in Detroit, Michigan is leaving her mark on the hair industry in her unique way. She was given by mother to be raised by her grandparents at age of nine. She also suffered the loss of her mother at age 16 although, in what she describes as an unpleasant time in her life. Molette grew ip spoiled, loved and with lots of structure in her life. Always finding herself in leadership positions throughout school, she quickly realized that she enjoyed leading a team and excelling in whatever field she entered. This began to awaken an entrepreneurial spirit within her and inspired her to pursue something she had always loved, which was hair. She began to make money in school charging her classmates for finger waves and pony tails during lunchtime. Then she’d parade up and down the block with her “dollar gel” servicing many new clients.

After ditching the idea to pursue a career in mortuary science, Molette enrolled at Detroit’s own Preston and Anna’s Beauty School. Now following her passion, she received her cosmetology license. After graduating, she began working at various beauty salons in the city. She paid very close attention to learn all she could to gain experience and learn the ropes of the salon business. When that entrepreneurial spirit was reawakened yet again, she made the decision to open her own salon taking everything she had learned into consideration, but on a greater level.

Molette opened the doors to Hype Hair Salon, LLC in November of 2001 and will be celebrating 20 years of business this year.

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“ Being a single mother and running a salon from sun-up to sun-down was challenging. I’ve had breaking points but never broke, so that’s where I got the name.....Elasticity.”

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Hype Hair Salon remains as one of the top hair salons within the metro Detroit area.

Offering service for all phases of hair, they are known for styling to perfection. When the pandemic hit last year, the salon had to close its doors, generating absolutely no revenue for any of its stylists or the owner. Molette says that experience has surely reminded her that as a business owner you must keep your finances in order. She encourages other small business to save as much as they can because you never know when something like this can happen, and preparation is key.

Although 2020 was a very difficult time it gave Molette the opportunity to begin developing her own faith-based product line, Elasticity Hair Care. She partnered with a local manufacturer handpicking each specific ingredient that would most benefit her customers hair and a chemist to help her solidify the formulas. This product line includes a therapeutic purifying shampoo and conditioner, leave in conditioner, heat protectant, holding spray, silk and serum, and also a luminosity sheen. Molette says that God gave her the name Elasticity and shares, “Being a single mother working, and running a salon from sun-up to sun-down was challenging. I’ve had breaking points but never broke, so that’s where I got the name Elasticity. The ability to stretch and bounce back without breaking. I call my Ministry in a Bottle.” She hopes that these products will help women spiritually as well as physically. Elasticity Hair Care will launch in June 2021.

Molette says that her three beautiful daughters are what motivate her to continue thriving and working hard. “Failure was never an option for me. I thrive on making it and just being successful in every right,” she says.

With a successful career spanning over the last 25 years, she has definitely left her mark on the industry. Her accomplishments also include working as a celebrity stylist for some of our favs such as The Clark Sisters, The Sheards, Judge Hatchett, Judge Mablean, and even Hoopz from the hit reality TV show Flavor of Love, plus many more.

Molette’s future plans for her career include promoting her hair line and opening a second Hype Hair location in Texas, where she plans to relocate. After the launch of Elasticity Hair Care in May, she plans to begin work on two new collections, Elasticity Natural and Elasticity Kids.

Sonya Molette Elasticity Hair Care 248-403-3404 22

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Her Love Has No Limits

Monica Moyer 24

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By Fanta Dorley Photos by Dorjae’ McClammey “You never know what God has planned for you but keep the faith”. Famous inspirational words from a small-town girl with a great heart.

Monica Moyer was born and raised in Martinsville Virginia.

While surrounded by the loving support of family and friends, she always knew there were great things planned for her life.

While growing up in a close-knit community and helping her mother and grandmother bake in the kitchen, she had her hands full, but still enjoyed every moment. She found herself always thinking of different crafty baked experiments, and even connected with local party planners to provide treats for events. And just like that, Monica found something that she was not only good at, but loved to do as well: Bake, bake and bake some more.

Remember, that baking was a huge part of her life as a child. So, in the early 2000s, Monica decided to perfect her craft by taking classes for cake decorating. Although she enjoyed the class, the magic didn’t happen all at once. As a matter of fact, things were beginning to take a great toll on her. She was in transition with moving and adjusting to a new city, in addition to getting married and raising a young family, life became a lot. That didn’t stop her, though it may have slowed the progress down a little, her spirit and drive motivated her to continue to learn more about baking techniques and owning a business.

The opportunity of entrepreneurship came quickly in 2019.

With her husband’s support and encouragement, Monica prayed and decided that it was time to go after her dreams.

Like all divine transactions, there was a post on Facebook advertising a bakery for sale in Archdale, N.C. Now with every dream, there is a level of reality that sets in and makes you ask yourself questions like: “How can we afford this?” “Is this the right time to own a business?” “Am I ready for all of this?” Monica shares these questions troubled her, as she had to make the decision quickly as to whether to pursue this bakery location or wait for another opportunity to come. She decided to step out on faith and go after what she wanted.

“My bold faith walk did not come without obstacles and a roller coaster of emotional decisions. I placed a bid on the location but was lost to another bidder in the first week. This could have been a devastating blow, but my faith reassured me this was my time for success,” she says. Monica and her family continued to pray for direction and strength to endure.

A couple of days later, she received a call from the owners of Archdale Bakery saying that the bid fell through and the opportunity is still available.

Monica and her family were overjoyed by the news, though they had more questions: “Can we afford this, and how can this work?” Again, Monica stepped out on faith and asked the owner to give her 60 days to pay full deposit amount.

The owner agreed with one stipulation; she must start in March 2020 instead of July. So, she did, and the Moyer family became proud owners of Archdale Bakery.

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Pictured with Monica is Tiwanna Hairston Photo by Demetrius Covington

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“What Tawanna didn’t expect was for Monica to share some life changing news with her; she was a match. Of course, tears flowed, and joy spread throughout the building.”

Photo by Demetrius Covington

March is the month when seasons change, and opportunities develop, however Monica wasn’t prepared for what was about to happen. It was around the same time that COVID 19 hit the nation as the world’s greatest pandemic, two weeks after opening day. More questions began to settle in Monica’s mind about did she make a mistake about purchasing the bakery.

Furthermore, she had no clue as to how long the pandemic would last. “When you have the level of faith as I have, those type of questions only last for a moment. I immediately began to regroup and redirect my services,” she says. The location adjusted to offering curbside only service per government regulations. With some help from Jackie White of the Greensboro Black Cash Mob, the bakery was able to start getting online orders. Not only that, but Monica’s former employer at a banking call center began to make orders for events and allow employees to make orders. Things were looking up for the bakery. Monica and family were overjoyed with the areas of blessings and opportunity.

Monica knew that to whom much is given, much is required. While still building the brand of the bakery, Monica and family continued to strengthen their faith by attending a local church. This is the same church that the Moyers met their good friend Tiwanna Hairston. “She is more than just their good friend; she is like family. Tiwanna and I have experienced so many things together, but she has always been a constant encouraging force,” Monica shares. One day at church, Monica noticed that Tiwanna’s social media page was asking for anyone to be a match for a kidney donation. No matter how Monica tried to shake it, the page just kept tugging on her heart. She even tried to explain the feeling away by convincing herself she just needed to pray for Tiwanna, hoping that someone else would step up. As time passed, no one did step up and after talking it over

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with her husband, she knew what she had to do. As fate would have it, she was a match. Monica and Tiwanna’s daughter decided to present this news to her in a special way. The church choir decided to bring Tiwanna in for a special tribute to her mother, who had passed away a few weeks prior. What Tiwanna didn’t expect was for Monica to share some life changing news with her; she was a match. Of course, tears flowed, and joy spread throughout the building.

The journey has now begun.

During the recovery period, people can give you advise as to what you should expect, but it does not quite pinpoint what you will experience. On October 6, 2020, the surgery was performed, and it was a success. The kidney transplant brought two families closer together. Tiwanna’s daughter even expressed her gratitude to Monica for helping her mom be there for her future graduation and wedding. For Monica, physical recovery was a challenge. She was out of work for six weeks which really took a toll on her business. Yet through the support of her awesome staff, she was able to take the recovery time needed and bounce back.

Through this entire experience, Monica is grateful for every outcome. Her friend’s life is restored, and she was able to play a part in her rebirth. The transplant also caused a change in her family. She has always been active but never really health conscious.

Now her husband and son are more aware of their health and decided to start taking vitamins and seeing the doctor regularly. Monica says, “It is very important for those in the African American community to know their blood type and be an organ donor.”

Monica reflects to a teacher calling her the black unicorn; saying that she is “royalty in the world that people can’t see.” She shares, “what life has taught me is that family is everything and lessons are learned every day. I can see the life lessons being learned through my son working at the bakery. He started off putting out the cookies, but now he is creating items for the menu, and adding input to daily operations.

His role is very promising for the extended future of the bakery.”

Monica plans to have more programs that will help develop the creative and entrepreneurial talents of the youth. Until then, the community will continue to enjoy the sweet and savory delicacies that Archdale Bakery provides. Although many of the same recipes of the original bakery are still being used, Monica and the crew are creating new crowd pleasers like Cracked Grapes, Candy Apples, Famous Strawberry Crunch Cake, and Banana Pudding. They have even started doing gourmet donuts that are a big hit at local corporate meetings.

The future for Archdale Bakery is looking delicious and it is strengthened by a strong, willing, and compassionate owner who has a giving heart for her community. To satisfy your sweet tooth, stop by their location. h ­

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By Trea’Sure Prince Photos by Keisha Heggie Jay Maxwell, also known as Meantime Max, was born in Newark, New Jersey to a creative household. He later moved to Greensboro, N.C., and attended James B. Dudley High School. After graduation, Maxwell went on to attend Winston Salem Barber College and obtained his professional barber’s license. He eventually became a successful barber in the triad area.

Maxwell was the youngest of three and has two older brothers. He was raised by a single mother and stated that his mother did her absolute best to make sure that she would raise strong black men, even if she had to do it alone. “My creativity was inspired by “school-teacher mother,” he shares. “She has always been artistic, and her gift eventually rubbed off on me.” To keep him busy, Maxwell’s mother allowed him to assist with creating bulletin boards which ignited his passion for a larger scale of art.

“I did not want my artistry to be put into a box. I enjoy how random they can be, as well as the freedom of expression my artwork provides.”

Other than seeing his mother taking art courses in college when he was younger, Maxwell hasn’t had any former training but has always been passionate about street art and graffiti. Unfortunately, his interest led to some trouble and mischief. As a teenager, he was charged for painting the wall of a local grocer, Winn-Dixie. After that, he decided to put a stop to it. After his break from street art and graffiti, he evolved to draw and create mixtape covers for other artist and musicians. He also created flyers for a rap group of which he was a member of at the time. Life would happen and he stopped painting graffiti and street art. Then something horrific happened in our country that would inspire artists from all walks of life to become involved.

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After hearing the news of George Floyd’s murder, a black man who was killed at the hands of a white police officer in Minneapolis, MN, the country responded with swift anger and emotions. Many businesses, including those in Maxwell’s home of Greensboro boarded up their business out of fear of being damaged by vandalism. Turns out, that many of these infractions weren’t being committed by the protesters who marched in peace in response to the killing of Floyd. But instead, were being carried out by criminals.

The city started allowing local people to paint on the plywood boards. While taking his daughter to go painting, Maxwell noticed there just were not enough black artists out there participating. So, he got busy and soon many of his works dawned the building of downtown Greensboro.

Later the city of Greensboro established a Street Mural Program. It was a huge accomplishment for him to be invited to participate in the “One Love” project in downtown Greensboro. Artists painted “One Love” on Davie Street. Here, he met a lot of the big-time artists who were in town to contribute to this unified cause.

Maxwell has a variety of artwork that he does. His artwork ranges from graffiti and wall murals to canvases and poetry. Mainly his creative energies lead him to create large street art. He described his creativity as “a free bird flying.” “This comparison may be cliché but, it is accurate.”

It is also important to Maxwell to produce pieces that are purposeful. “I did not want my artistry to be put into a box.

I enjoy how random they can be, as well as the freedom of expression my artwork provides,” he says. In his pieces, he also wanted to stop making black men look like victims. Maxwell stated, “I wanted to give black men their power back.”

One of his most memorable experiences or works came about a year ago when he lost a good friend of his. Maxwell decided that he wanted to make him into what seemed to be a “black superman” like figure. This piece was very emotional for him, so emotional in fact that he had to stop and take breaks to help keep himself maintained. He also wanted to make sure that he got this particular piece done exactly right. It was done such as it should be, and the finished work has been applauded by onlookers and friends of his deceased friend.

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So, what lies in the future for Mr. Jay, “Meantime Max” Maxwell? He plans to use the art to catapult other projects that he has been working on, and he would like to continue selling more canvases. As of right now, Jay Maxwell is continuing to pursue his passion for art. He is also a local barber who owns a barber shop and has been working on producing music.

“Meantime Max” is simply a jack of all trades.

If you would like to support artist Jay Maxwell, he uses Shopify, but he accepts direct messages on Instagram where he goes by the handle “MeantimeMax” for serious inquiries. h

Follow Jay Maxwell on Instagram @meantimemax Florida - March/April 2021

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Will & Nanette

It’s Family, It’s Furniture, and Love

By Fanta Dorley Photos by Tim Boone Jr. and Nanette Carter “I want to provide a place where people can come and feel at home, before they even make a purchase”.

That is exactly how LeaVies Furniture makes every customer feel – like they are coming to visit family. From the friendly greeting with cookies and lemonade, to the vibrant handpicked furniture pieces for sale, LeaVies is a place that matches your vision with a furniture shopping experience. Clients feel like family because the company is founded on the foundation of family.

Brother and sister owners, Will Maberson, Jr and Nanette Carter, also known as the “Furniture Duo”, always had an interest in being entrepreneurs. Growing up in Summerfield, North Carolina watching their family members run their own businesses, they were encouraged to follow in the family footsteps. Will and Nanette’s grandparents from both sides of the family, owned successful local businesses, The Chavis Handy Corner and The Bargain House. They have vivid memories of going to their grandfather’s store

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after school and playing until time to go home as customers came and went. Their first introduction to running a business was working at their mother’s Janitorial and Catering business. Even while helping her mother, Nanette also modeled for Dudley Products and other companies.

After getting married to her husband, Lawrence, and working at a local company for 22 years, Nanette decided it was time for a change. “It was time to do something that made me happy instead of just having a job,” she says. “I remember talking it over with my husband and deciding to take a leap of faith and start our first furniture boutique.”

Their journey began with Lawrence stepping in.

“He worked at various furniture showrooms, which allowed him to pick out bargained pieces to be resold at our small boutique. Things were going well. We finally had a small place to display our collection. Unfortunately, Lawrence had a stroke that caused changes in operating the business, but Will stepped right in to help,” Nanette says.

Lawrence would eventually recover, and Nanette transitioned into more personal home decorating and personal shopping. Their families took notice and encouraged Nanette and Will to expand. They quickly outgrew the first location and began looking for another. After careful consideration, they decided upon a property that had been in the family for years.

With every blessing there comes a test. To open the new location, they had to go through rezoning and many other obstacles. With lots of support from the community and family they were able to get through the process of transitioning from residential to commercial. With that change came the new name of LeaVies Furniture Boutique in honor of their beloved grandmother, Leavie Maberson.

Located at 7906 Summerfield Road in Summerfield, North Carolina, LeaVies opened its doors on November 7, 2019 in the middle of a pandemic. Nanette says, “My mom encouraged us to open. She just wanted to be here to see it.” By faith they opened the boutique and do not regret it. They opened their doors debt free, as the building was gifted to them. Most of the large furniture is purchased upon ordering. There are multiple accessories and handcrafted pieces from local creatives. LeaVies gives those business owners a platform to display their items to a faithful and consistent clientele. As one looks around the boutique, they will see custom body scrubs, wax melts and artwork. The items transform the small quaint farmhouse into a comfortable, contemporary, welcome home experience. “People always say the experience they feel when they walk through the doors is pleasantly unexpected.”

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As co-owners of LeaVies, Nanette and Will strive to grow the company in a way to help the community more. Growing up in their family, they were taught to love their neighbors and do what they could for each other. The family values also extended to providing important financial lessons that they follow to this day. “I remember being taught not to live beyond our means and to remember to always have savings and less waste,” she says.

With those lessons, the duo learned to work hard, save, and understand the value of money.

The duo received much support and business capital needed from a muchloved fairy godmother. “Who can say they have that” she laughs. “We are blessed.”

Because of their solid foundation they can operate the business with the level of personalization they have dreamt about.

“When a customer calls and asks for a particular piece, I have what they want in mind as well as other items to accessorize.

They trust me to put it together,” she says.

“Some combinations can be described as traditional with a twist or country with a little bling. However, all services are custom to the client’s needs.”

Nanette’s decorating skills have kept her working at Dynacon, a local event center, for ten years. She gives her all for both businesses. Of course, the love they have for people does not just stay in the building. LeaVies is greatly involved with causes for the community. They take old furniture and give it away to the needy and donate furniture items to churches for silent auctions and other functions.

So, as you visit that acre of land adorned by the country wheelbarrow, short walk bridge, Ms. Margaret’s Magnolia tree, and comfortable rocking chairs on the front porch, just get ready to receive your lemonade and feel the welcome home. Always know they are looking out for you the same way they have looked out for each other all through the years. Hopefully, they will be able to take a vacation soon, but for now, they are loving every minute of having their own business.

7906 Summerfield Rd Summerfield, NC 27358 (336) 740-2867

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They are the furniture duo on the rise.

To learn more about LeaVies Furniture, please stop by and see what they might h have for you.

Arshawna Warren Christian Branding & Marketing

By Jalessa Rogers Photos by Arshawna Warren In the era of smartphones and social media there are many ways that both can help establish and grow your business. For example, in the middle of a pandemic, social media has presented itself to be a useful platform for businesses such as churches and other ministries.

Arshawna Warren, a Cleveland, OH native, is a Christian branding and marketing professional. With her business, I Am Arshawna LLC, she has been successful utilizing social media as a tool to help ministries stay active and spread their message and information.

Born and raised by a single mother in Cleveland, Warren was an active child, involved in singing, dancing, painting, acting, and ministry. “Being an only child raised by a twotime breast cancer survivor, my mother made sure I was educated on self-breast exams,” she says. During a selfexam, Warren discovered a lump and was later diagnosed with breast cancer at the tender age of sixteen. After being examined by her doctor and having a lumpectomy, her cancer was discovered and removed in surgery.

After her experience with breast cancer, Warren started a workshop called Be Pretty in Pink, in 2013. “My workshop was created to educate middle school and high school girls about breast cancer, encourage them, empower them, and teach them about the seriousness of breast cancer,” stated Warren. Her willingness to help other young girls and educate them about breast cancer gained national attention, and she was invited to be a guest on the Steve Harvey Show. In 2015 with the help of Steve Harvey, she was able to turn her workshop into a nonprofit organization.

As a recent psychology graduate of Baldwin Wallace University, Warren reflects on how her childhood was the reason she chose her school and major. “Being bullied as a child made me want to help young people with their mental health. Although I did not want to stay close to home, I felt that God wanted me to go there,” she says.

“Whatever God has for me, whatever that is, I am going to be helping somebody reach their full potential,” said Warren.

Growing up as an active church member helped Warren figure out a growing market that she could navigate and be successful in. “As a Christian branding and marketing professional my goal is to help different ministries, churches and brands navigate the social media world and market themselves in a professional way,” stated Warren.

Now that it is the third month in this new 2021 year, it has been almost a full year since the first stay at home orders were announced throughout the United States. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, a lot of churches and ministry leaders decided to close places of worship and stream their services online. When asked about working with ministries and navigating them during this time, Warren stated that helping ministries navigate social media and their online presence is a big part of her business and has been even before the pandemic.

“I genuinely believe that my ‘why’ and my purpose is to help people, but it starts from the home. How you cater to the people who are around you, your family members, and your friends, they are what motivates me. I’m truly encouraged by their love and their support.” stated Warren. She feels that her motivation has always been her family, and they are one of the biggest reasons she has accomplished so much in her young life. Motivation to her has been labeled as her “whys” and her “whys” are her family and the people who she serves.

In her business, she has worked diligently to help ministries spread their message about God in an effective way. Warren’s main goals are to have a perpetual effect and reach more people, and to pay it forward as much as possible. She is also a big advocate for mental health because she was bullied as a child, so she plans to “give back to so many people who are struggling,” said Warren.

The future looks bright for Warren and she isn’t displaying any signs of slowing down. She shares her motivating mantra, “whatever God has for me.” To learn more about Arshawna Warren, please visit her website. h

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More Than Hair 36

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By Terry L. Watson

Come on in and rest your feet, and while you’re at it, leave your worries and burdens on the outside, and allow your mind to rest as well. This is the kind of peace and comfort that is offered at More Than Hair, a salon nestled comfortably in Huntsville, AL.

Jerome Coverson Productions

The leader and face of More Than Hair is Cierra De’Shae, a New Market, AL native. She is the oldest of four girls and describes herself as a leader and influencer to others. Most importantly, Cierra is a believer in God. She has been a professionally licensed cosmetologist for five years, and a business owner for nearly two years.

“I’m an entrepreneur or Godpreneur, that is what I like to call it,” she says. “I love to empower and inspire people through my gifts and skills as a hairstylist. They all come from God, and I am only doing what He expects of me with them.”

More Than Hair is a beauty brand that aspires to inspire others beyond what’s on their crown, but also what’s inside of it. “We strive to give you an experience that shows beauty to the eye while helping to motivate your heart. We provide hair care services for our community while providing a space for them to be encouraged and empowered through whatever they may be facing,” Cierra states.

For her, it’s all about making a connection, a divine connection. Being a devout Christian herself, she always carries the word of God with her, so when the opportunity arises for her to pour into someone, she is prepared. “Often times a normal service will turn into a prayer session, right at my styling station,” she says. “I love that my business is a place where people can come and receive care for their hair, but also get an experience that leaves them feeling refreshed. “Many of my clients have walked in one way and left completely transformed.”

Cierra’s journey began as a young girl. She always had a passion for hair care and styling. This passion would carry on even after graduating high school. “I originally went to college to be a psychologist, but halfway through that journey I made the decision to pursue what I loved. I attended J.F. Drake State Technical and Community College in 2014 and graduated in 2016 and became a licensed cosmetologist shortly after. I started out with a salon in my home but later transitioned into working in commission based and sole proprietor salons.

In 2019, God told me it was time to step out on my own.

So, obediently, I started looking for a place that would be a good fit for me and the business that I was birthing. On June 17, 2019. More Than Hair officially opened its doors to the public,” she says.

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The path of an entrepreneur isn’t an easy one. She has faced some challenges here and there, but mostly she has relied on the support of a few to make it through. Going to college to channel my craft, literally saved my life. My mother passed away during my first semester of college. Six months later we lost our home to a tornado while we were inside. Those experiences sent me spiraling down a dark path until I made the decision to go to school and focus on doing what I loved the most. Going into the hair industry gave me a new start, and a new discipline. I’m not sure where I would be if I didn’t have my business.

This journey into this industry helped me to discover purpose beyond the pain I’d experienced. My prayer is that my business can provide that same kind of impact for all who encounter it,” she shares.

Photo by Shuneil Gadsen Photography

One might ask where one gets so much drive to do the things that Cierra does. She shares, “I have been encouraged by my family, friends, and mentors; they have all pushed and encouraged me. It’s because of them that my business is what it is today. I have also been favored with constant support of loyal clientele, and that alone is enough for me to stand on.”

Cierra says that even during the loss of her mother, and the tornado ravishing her family’s home, there isn’t much she would change about her journey. “If I could, I would focus more on the business aspect of being a salon owner and not just the skill. As a business owner, it is so important to be educated on financial literacy, because it can truly make or break your business, and significantly impacts its development and growth. I would’ve also learned more about marketing and content building. Living in a digital age has completely changed what networking looks like. Passing out business cards is only the beginning of what your marketing should look like. I would have invested in learning these things, which would have provided a better way to build my business. I’ve learned they are just as important as focusing on honing the skills you provide behind the chair,” she shares.

More Than Hair Salon

920 Bob Wallace Avenue Southwest Suite 325 Huntsville, AL 35801 (256) 658-1566 www.cierradeshae.com 38

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Moving forward, Cierra plans to continue to grow her business into a place that offers more than just hair services. “I hope to eventually be a full-service salon that provides facials, nail care, and more. I also hope to be able to have my own building of suites, where I can employ women and men like me that have a passion to serve the community, and the beauty industry. Additionally, I desire to provide training and business workshops for new people coming into the industry and create environments for stylists to come together as a community and build each other up,” she says. There are also plans of launching a product line for healthy hair of all ethnicities. Above all, Cierra will continue to use her God-given gift to reach and touch the lives of others. She shares, this is the true focus of More Than Hair. h

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Author, Community & Youth Advocate

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By David Hendricks Photos by Terence Doctor They say that “It takes a village to raise a child.” Terence Doctor provides Hopewell, VA with a much-needed leader in the African American community to lead its village.

Terence was born in Queens, New York and spent the first four - five years of his life there before relocating to Richmond, Virginia, where he currently still resides.

In Richmond, Terence is known for his devoted community involvement and concern for the betterment of people, specifically African Americans.

After graduating from Hopewell High School in 2004, Terence went onto to attend Johnson C. Smith University in Charlotte, NC before transferring to Virginia State University. After a few semesters at VSU, he decided to take some time off from school. “I needed a break and wanted to give myself an opportunity clearly think my next step in life,” he says. He recently reenrolled in school at Liberty University.

Terence has faced his share of challenges. He grew up in a single-parent household with his mother, as an only child in Hopewell. This was in a neighborhood where hearing police sirens and gunshots were an accepted part of the landscape.

“It was normal in my neighborhood which was also filled with talents and gifts, but had limited resources and little encouragement for the youth,” Terence said. He knew as a child that he wanted more out of life, and he also wanted to give back to his community when offered the chance.

Terence’s book, “Please Give Me A Dollar” is essentially the journal of his life, made public. It is an inspirational and motivational book of nuggets or what he calls “life lessons” that he’s learned with the purpose to inspire others to find their happiness and purpose. He says his inspiration for writing the book was rooted in his passion to inspire others to go after their dreams and happiness.

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Terence also leads a non-profit organization called Blueprint to Manhood, which is geared for young men ages 7-17. It focuses on uplifting, mentorship, and guiding young men into their journey of manhood. He created Blueprint to Manhood due to a lack of programs and events for young men within his communities, outside of sports.

He has also published another book, Please Give Me A Dollar, which focuses on mankinds obsession with money. “The concept of using “dollar” was speaking from the viewpoint of searching for self and happiness and compared it to a form of currency. In other words, one’s happiness or “dollar” may appear insignificant to others but has the most worth in their life. I do not want or desire what others have, I want my happiness or “dollar”.”

Terence’s goal was to always to be active in the community rather than to be a leader. “We are obligated to be active in the community in someone or another. As Brother Malcolm X once said, ‘So early in my life, I had learned that if you want something, you had better make some noise’. Me being active in my community is my ‘noise’ and paying homage to those before me, to carry on and push towards equality,” Terence said.

According to Terence, the importance of Self-Love is the most important life lesson. “When you understand and know who you are, there is no limit to where you can go.”

TerenceDoctor22@gmail.com Facebook: Terence Doctor Motivational/Author Facebook: Brother A.P. Instagram: pharaoh_doctor Facebook: Blueprint to Manhood Instagram: blueprinttomanhood

Terence’s inspiration is God, his wife Joni, his children Cameron and Peyton Zora, his hometown of Hopewell, Virginia, and the surrounding areas. He is also inspired by young, optmisitic people who are looking to better themselves and their environments. He also considers his family to be his biggest accomplishment. Becoming an author, founder of a non-profit, and enrolling back into college, are some as well. “They’re all big accomplishments because growing up I didn’t feel that they were achievable goals,” he says.

Terence is prouder of “Blueprint to Manhood” than “Please Give Me A Dollar because he values seeing young men growing more positive in our communities is better than anything he’s done individually. He loves the community aspect of his nonprofit organization.

Terence’s advice to young people would be “Accept accountability for your actions, adjust and live your life for the better. Things may be rough right now but continue to stay the course and believe in you! Tap into your greatness. Be great in all you do, for the world is yours,” he says.

In the near future, Terence and his wife will be expecting their new baby girl in May 2021. He is also looking to complete his degree and another book will be published in the near future as well. h

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Alex D. Banks II, Saxophonist FB: Alex D. Banks II IG: @alexdbanksii Contact Information: Phone: 256-631-1268 Email: info@alexdbanksii.com

MAGAZINE

Cutest Baby

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Railyn Bozeman The daughter of Raisha Mercer and Dexter Bozeman

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To submit photographs to be placed in the Huami Magazine Cutest Baby feature, please send a detailed email to huami.cutestbaby@gmail.com

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