Huami Magazine Charlotte May/June 2017

CHARLOTTE

MAy/June 2017 Volume 1 Issue 12 FREE

10 Years Of Huami Magazine

Dwayne Collins Charlotte - May/June 2017

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Who or What is Navigating You

There Are No If, Ands, Or Buts About It! A Letter From The Editor As a Christian, I have access to the best and most reliable navigational A Letter from the Editor tool available; God. Similar in many ways to the navigational system of a car, yet uniquely different because He created everything and that makes His way the best anyhow. It is a gift that God has given us all to utilize for What didn’t arrive? direction in life. ifAlltomorrow that we have to do is ask.All of your plans, hopes

and dreams wouldn’t have a street to park on. What if everything that you myself decided toor put offofuntil tomorrow never Quite often I have found lost out place.

There have been happened?

There would be nowith reason to save for rainy have moments when I was deeply involved somethings, yetaI didn’t day, andI got youthere, couldmore spareless someone trouble making a clue on how on howthe I would get of back.

It didn’t promises.

What if yourthe lastreasons opportunity seemingly expired take too long for me to realize for which I was there.

It was today?

What you because I didn’t take would the time to do? share my thoughts and dreams with God initially. Instead I made plans and went on my way. That method never works andI’ve onlybeen makes God laugh. told that I often seem like I do too much.

Honestly, I feel like I am not doing enough and I’m a firm

There was one time whenthat I made to travel get away.

I was believer in knowing Godplans wouldn’t put and anything on me excitedthat andIshared myhandle. enthusiasm with a few others.how I gotlife all would packed couldn’t I sometimes wonder up, hit be theifroad and when I arrived, almost immediately, problems began I chose to sit idle and accept what it presented to me.

I to settle in.

One thing after another, it seemed that I had to deal with have found that to be very boring. In my opinion, opportunity this issue and that issue. The trip was so frustrating that I began to look is a blessing that isn’t afforded to everyone. A challenge forward to returning home.

to 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 I didn’t know then but my problems began well before I had left home. newfavor about Relinquish your pride andtoinseek I failedsomething to ask God for andmyself. covering while I traveled.

I failed acquire life. to my trip. As a result of doing so, it seemed Him forreturn guidance in regards that with every turn that I made a problem was there waiting for me.

The best advice ever given to me happened when someone Nothing went right.

told me to make my tomorrow happen today. In doing so have pressed my way with out a key only GodIspoke to me, telling me through that I wasdoors operating ofthat order.

I hadn’t hope provided.

I have also learned the difference between asked God to lead me where I he wanted me to go. I thought I was the blesses me with what lifehad cancontrol. burden me with of captainwhat of myGod ship, but it turned outand that I never Because Gods grace andtomercy, I made itand home as well. I compare it to knowing when be confident withoutwhen harm.toI learned a valuable be quiet, becauselesson on that someone trip. God showed that He may getme it confused has a plan for my life, a plan devised well with being arrogant.

before I even existed. If I intended on receiving the blesses and rewards that He Make you tomorrow has for me, I must seek Himmost first. happen today, but

importantly make it count.

Whatever you dream or plan will never Life is but a whisper and amount to anything if you don’t use the we must put ourselves in a navigational tool that God has made position to hear what it is available to you. If you are not following us. then you are running in His plantelling and path, circles. God always provides us with the best direction.

Terry L. Watson Editor/Founder Terry L. Watson

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HuamiMagazine.com 4 HuamiMagazine.com

www.huamimagazine.com Editor In Chief

Terry L. Watson Alana Allen - Deputy Editor Writers

Tonya Dixon Terry L. Watson Alana Allen Jeuron Dove Photographers Perfect Lenz Photography Todd Youngblood Photography

Shaw Photography Group Still Shots Photography

Howard Gaither Photography Who Shotya Photography Layout

Mykel Media Company Linda Bennett

mykelmedia@yahoo.com huami.charlotte@gmail.com (336) 340-7844 (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 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 2016 All Rights Reserved 2014 All Rights Reserved

On The Cover

Photo by Shaw Photography Group Want to advertise, Call 336-340-7844

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CONTENTS

Asa Fleming

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Eric Lee

May/June

2017

OliviaLondon

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Also Inside

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Delicious Ambitions

Jus’ Taste

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Movind & Shaking

Ericka Ellis-Steward

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Dwayne Collins

Curtis Lyons

Cutest Baby Contest

Levi Harris

Boston’s Finest

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Cherine Bentley

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Dwayne Collins

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By Terry L. Watson Photos by Todd Youngblood

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hen it comes to men’s fashion, there is one person who knows something about it. Dwayne Collins is the proprietor of The Sartorial Servant, a wardrobe consultation service for men based out of Charlotte. His services include consultation in relation to wardrobe, presentations, and workshops concerning men’s dress. He also offers made to measure apparel, suits, blazers, trousers, sport coats, dress shirts, sport shirts, neckties, bow ties, pocket squares and hosiery for men.

Dwayne Collins is a native of Fayetteville, N.C., but moved to Charlotte in 1976. He attended public schools in the Queen City and after graduating from Garinger High School, he later attended Johnson C. Smith University and obtained a bachelor of arts degree in English. After college, he worked for the Charlotte Mecklenburg School system and dabbled a little in the banking industry.

Additionally, he was able to find time to work in retail at Brooks Brothers, Dillard’s, and Ralph Lauren. It was during these experiences when he noticed a void in how most men had not been properly educated on the difference of dressing fashionably, and dressing well. “Dressing fashionably changes from season to season, dressing well is timeless,” Collins says.

Soon after his experiences in retail, Collins decided to make a career change and, Sartorial Servant Wardrobe Consulting Firm was born.

“We educate men on dressing well. When a man dresses well, it builds his confidence,” he says. Collins also possesses over twenty years of expertise in the area and is held in high regard amongst many in the respective field. He has been featured in The Charlotte Observer Style File, which highlights the most stylish men and women in Charlotte, North Carolina. He is a former men’s style columnist for Pride Magazine online, The County News Newspaper, and Q City Metro’s online magazine.

“Dressing fashionably changes from season to season, dressing well is timeless. We educate men on dressing well. When a man dresses well, it builds his confidence.”

Dwayne Collins

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Collins has served as Chairperson of The Black Political Caucus of Charlotte Mecklenburg, and President of The Charlotte Mecklenburg N.A.A.C.P. In 2000, Collins was recognized as one of Charlotte, North Carolina’s most influential black men by Community Pride Magazine.

The typical client for Collins is a man who has a sincere desire to dress well, and is willing to be educated on the principles of dressing well. “I choose wardrobe consulting as a career to be of service to men. I don’t feel that my job is complete until each client feels as good as they look, and has an understanding on what happened to get them to this point,” he says. “I have failed if I only dress someone and they are unable to repeat the process after leaving my firm”.

While assisting in the transformation of men from fashion delinquents, into arbiters of men’s style, Collins is also paying homage to those who helped and inspired him. “My great uncle, Charles Williams was the first man I saw that dressed elegantly.

I wanted to dress just like him. My good friend, Leonard Gresham, Jr. is an elegant dresser and style mentor to me,” he says. He also considers musician, Louis Armstrong to be one of the best dressed men in the history of the world.

Moving forward, Collins plans to continue to spread the ‘Sartorial Gospel’ to the ends of the earth. This also means creating clothing and ensembles that will move men forward in their goals, aspirations, and dreams. h

“Clothing is one of the most universal yet overlooked forms of communication. One’s attire projects a sense of one’s self esteem, savvy, priorities, and state of mind.”

Alan Flusser

Men’s Style Guru

Photos provided by O.G. Collins Media

The Sartorial Servant Wardrobe Consulting Firm 704-777-4313 dwaynecollins088@gmail.com 8

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By Terry L. Watson Photos by Jus’ Taste

www.justaste1.com

Fabrianne Saunders

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By Terry L. Watson Photos by Jus’ Taste

us’ Taste is a home based catering and personal chef/bakery service that specializes in Caribbean American food, as well as, alcohol infused custom baked goods.

Owner and chef Fabrianne Saunders says Jus’ Taste focus is to create great flavors in a variety of delectable Southern cuisines with heavy influences from the Caribbean other parts of the world. They also service a variety of events such as baby showers, bridal showers, birthday parties, tailgates, and bachelorette,bachelor parties.

Like most new business owners, gaining new customers and maintaining a steady influx of business is a constant challenge. Saunders never thought she would ever be able to create something and see it featured online for everyone to see and want to purchase. “Sometimes it still surprises her when she sits back and think, “Wow, I did that!”

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In 2009, Saunders settled down and really thought about what gave her pure joy. A couple of years later, she decided it was time to start walking in faith and enroll in culinary school to pursue her passion for cooking.

“Being able to express myself in a dish that was created by me has always been gratifying. Hopefully in the next year, I hope to finally open up a food truck or maybe even a small local eatery and walk away from my full time job.,” she says.

The influence from her grandmother, mother and aunts who shared their culinary experience throughout the years with her is evident in almost every dish.

She also gathers inspiration from various friends from various parts of the world, as well as her own travels throughout the United States and the Caribbean.

In the future, Saunders plans to continue to make delicious dishes and making Jus’ Taste a household name.

“Hopefully in the next year, I will open up a food truck or maybe even a small local eatery and walk away from my full time job,” she says. h

“I never thought she would ever be able to create something and see it featured online for everyone to see and want to purchase. Sometimes it still surprises her when she sits back and think, “Wow, I did that!”

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Cherine H. Bentley

Information and photos provided by Cherine H. Bentley

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herine H. Bentley is a native of Newark, New Jersey. She currently resides in Charlotte, N.C., where she works as a Community Coach for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

She is also a Motivational Speaker.

Cherine was born with Cerebral Palsy, which affects her walking. Through God’s love and grace, she has managed to thrive. Cherine is also a kidney transplant recipient. Her ability to overcome these obstacles has ignited such a passion in her to share of God’s healing power and faithfulness with everyone she meets.

My biggest inspirations are both my mother and my daughter. My Mother because she raised me to always believe in myself. She always told me that there was nothing that I couldn’t accomplish, as long as I put my mind to it. It is because of her unwavering love and support that I am where I am today. Next, my daughter, Jabrae. Jabrae is my inspiration because she is so strong and resilient. I watch as she deals with the pressures of not only being a pre-teen, but also the challenges of having a parent with special needs. Her tenacity and perseverance inspires me to be better and better each day.

Living with Cerebral Palsy has been both challenging and rewarding. Challenging in the sense that, from the womb I have had to fight and overcome many things. For example, being labled and also being discriminated against are just a couple of the challenging things. The rewarding part has been, experiencing a fulfilled life because of loving family and friends and an awesome sense of community. They all helped to propel me forward inspite of the negative experiences and the naysayers.

Writing gives me the opportunity to be authentic and transparent with my readers. l am able to communicate various thoughts and ideas that will resonate with people for years to come.

Moving forward, I will continue to write more books.

I actually already have the title for my next book. Also, I will continue to motivate, inspire and encourage others through various speaking engagements and other platforms. My goal is to touch as many lives as possible.

I do not want to leave this earth empty!

Ericka Ellis-Stewart Moving and Shaking From Greensboro All The Way To The Queen City

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ricka Ellis-Stewart is a servant leader who embodies the trait of tenacious advocacy. For nearly 20 years, she has been on the forefront of many of the social issues facing the Charlotte community (health and human services, crime, social justice, diversity and inclusion, education, housing, etc.). Ms. EllisStewart’s actions and involvement show that she is willing to stand up and fight for what is right. She desires to make a difference for the community and will push for positive change.

Non-Profit Executive Since 2015, Ms. Ellis-Stewart has served as the Donor Relations Specialist for Mental Health America of Central Carolinas, a local nonprofit that promotes mental health through advocacy, education, and prevention. She is also a nationally certified Mental Health First Aid trainer. Previously, she served as the Director of the Charlotte CROP Hunger Walk, the largest and most successful CROP Walk in the United States. Prior to her work with CROP, Ms. Ellis-Stewart worked in higher education at the Belk College of Business at UNC Charlotte.

Early in her career, she began breaking the glass ceiling in the nonprofit arena. In 2005, she became the first African-American women to serve as the Executive Director of a YMCA branch in the Greater Charlotte region since its founding in 1875. In 2001, Ms. Ellis-Stewart became the first female executive director of Right Moves For Youth, a local drop-out prevention agency.

As a leader in the non-profit and human services field, Ms. EllisStewart’s background gives her a broad network and a great understanding of the issues impacting our community. She has the ability to recognize trends, analyze data, see the big picture and make informed decisions and is willing to work with others to solve community issues.

Elected Official In 2011, after many years of consideration, Ms. Ellis-Stewart decided to run for elected office. After four months on the campaign trail, she won a seat on the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Board of Education as an At-Large Member. With over 35,000 votes, she was the highest vote getter in a 14-person race for the three at-large seats. On December 13, 2011, Ms. Ellis-Stewart was sworn in and voted by her peers to serve as Chairman of the Board of Education for 2012. In 2015, she was re-elected to a second term and was once again the top vote getter.

Ericka believes that service is commiting your talent, time and treasure to the work of bettering your community. It is also educating people on the issues, empowering them to take a stand, advocating on behalf of voiceless and being diligent in your efforts. For the nearly 20 years, Ms. Ellis-Stewart has been honored to serve children and families living in Mecklenburg County. h

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Accomplishments & Civic Involvement

• Charlotte-Mecklenburg Board of Education, At-Large Representative & former Chairman • Clean Air Carolina, Board Member & Vice-Chairman

• CUBE (Council of Urban Boards of Education), National Steering Committee Member • EmpowHERment Inc., Mentor • NC Women in Public Service, Women in Office Institute Alumna • Leadership North Carolina, Alumni • 2012 Gantt-Watt Legacy Award, Awarded by the Young Democrats of NC • Professional Achievement Award, Awarded by The National Association of Negro Business & Professional Women’s Club, Inc. – Charlotte Chapter • PRIDE Award -- Emerging Leader, Awarded by PRIDE Magazine • 40 Under 40 Award, Awarded by the Charlotte Business Journal • Ten Outstanding Young Charlotteans Award, Awarded by the Charlotte Jaycees • Governor’s Achievement Award, Awarded by Leadership North Carolina

Letters

Angel Fire

Deja Vu Desires

Cousins

Them Eve’s Daughters

Marrissa’s Nubian Romance Novels Get Your Copies Today www.nubianromance.com Charlotte - May/June 2017

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Wendy Isom

Got Pain? Need Relief?

A Wholistic Alternative May Be Right For You! “It was the Spring of 1995 and I was exhausted. The pain I felt on a daily basis depleted my energy often before my day began. I knew I was suffering from something other than sleep deprivation. My frustration escalated after each doctor’s appointment as it didn’t seem that we were making any progress toward restoring my health.”

“After numerous tests and seeking the help of several specialists, I was finally diagnosed with Polymyositis, an autoimmune condition that affects the muscles. Up until this point, I had always been active. I practiced yoga regularly, enjoyed roller blading and stayed on the go 24/7.”

“For 10+ years, I managed my pain, pushing through the “flare-ups” and adjusting my lifestyle when my pain managed me. Then one day, I hit a brick wall. The inflammation, muscle tightness and pain was debilitating. Again, I found myself consulting with specialists and undergoing newer and more sophisticated tests. For months, traditional medicine and therapy offered little relief. Not willing to give up my dream of a pain-free life, I continued to search for hope. I knew that my strong belief system would lead me to the answer I was looking for as soon as I was ready to embrace it fully.”

“As a Nationally Certified and North Carolina state licensed massage therapist, I had continued to study and earn certifications in additional therapeutic forms of massage, offering my clients a variety of modalities to help them manage their pain. But, it wasn’t until I met John F. Barnes, PT and embraced my own healing journey using the JFB approach to Myofascial Release (MFR) that I knew I could truly live without pain and help support my clients in their quest to live a pain-free, active life.”

“I remember that day as if it was yesterday. I was attending 6 days of continuing education in Atlanta, GA, taking my first 2 MFR seminars with John. Just before class started, I walked out into the hallway. John was coming towards the seminar room; he walked up to me, placed his hand on my shoulder and said, “Welcome.” From the first few moments of class, I knew I had found the modality I had been searching for. It all made perfect sense to me; it spoke to my mind, heart and soul. After class one day, I received my first ‘real‘ JFB-MFR treatment from a senior instructor. My life changed during that session. I knew in my heart I had to learn as much as I could and put these MFR principles that were being shared, which truly are life principles, into practice for my own total wellness.

Soon after returning from Atlanta, I went to Sedona, AZ, to learn along side John as he treated patients in his worldrenowned western Myofascial Release treatment center, Therapy on the Rocks. It was an amazing experience! A month later, I embraced my first week of Intensive Therapy for the Therapist program at John’s eastern Myofascial Release treatment center in Paoli, PA. I came home a changed woman, never to look back.”

“I am proud to have earned the recognition of Expert MFR Practitioner and to be a Full Instructor for John F. Barnes MFR Seminars.”

“I have a creative soul. I need to feed it to feel alive and well. Every year, I resolve to learn something new. Sometimes, I find something I am grateful to have had the experience, but I’m glad to leave it behind. Other times, I fully engage and continue to enjoy what I have learned, making room in my life for my newfound joy. There are two areas of discovery that have held profound meaning for me. The study of therapeutic grade essential oils and nutrition, especially the energetic aspects of food, fascinate me. Being the daughter of a retired High School Chemistry and Physics teacher, you can imagine my dad’s delight when I called to talk chemical bonds after completing my class on the chemistry of essential oils and how the different bonds effect the properties of each oil.”

“We all experience times of difficulty. It’s our responsibility to learn and grow from each of these opportunities. During difficult times, I look to see if the balance in my life has been compromised in some way. I ask myself what part of my soul have I not fully honored. Are my family, career, nutrition, spiritual practice and relationships flowing in harmony? As a Certified Wholistic Health Coach and dōTERRA Wellness Advocate I can help you navigate those opportunities for growth.”

“I understand the importance of finding a compassionate and trustworthy therapist; someone who will listen to both your words, as well as your body. Someone who will respect your journey by creating a safe, loving and nurturing space for you to find your path back to a pain-free, active lifestyle.”

“Having spent several years in chronic pain, I know the importance of taking care of yourself and making time to be your #1 priority. In our busy lives, sometimes we forget. We are full-steam ahead and when we do slow down, we shut down. Finding harmony and connecting your mind, body and spirit takes courage; it’s the most loving thing you can do for yourself. Flow Total Wellness can help you achieve harmonic flow in your life.” h

Wendy Isom NC Licensed Massage & Bodywork Therapist #3416 dōTERRA Wellness Advocate #58405 Certified Wholistic Health Coach

Curtis Lyons A Keeper of Time

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By Terry L. Watson Photos by Jerry Barbry

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s hectic as life can be for some to get as much accomplished in a 24 hour day, the constant traverse is time and learning how to get the most out of it.

Curtis Lyons, a Durham resident and Horologists adopted a craft for timekeeping and spends many days building, repairing and restoring timepieces.

He was brought up in the country and was always interested in wheels, gears and anything that stored power. The 7th child of 11, of which also had two other adopted boys, Lyons says he knew he was different from all the rest of his siblings. “I wanted change,” he says. He attended Roxboro High School before it was integrated. After high school he attended college.

The name of North Carolina Central University had just been change from North Carolina College, and in the fall semester of 1969-1970, he enrolled.

“I probably would not have gone to college had it not been for the counselors who pushed me to do so. I had a busy working career, yet all of the time, my interest in clocks grew,” says Lyons.

Lyons says he was introduced to the craft of Horology by a representative for Ridgeway Clock Company. He would go all around North Carolina, fixing Ridgeway Grandfather Clocks. As he was amazed from these encounters, Lyons says his interest grew as well. “I enjoyed breathing life into something mechanical and making things tick and finding reasons why a clock stops. I was also intrigued at how a gear meshing with another gear can control power,” he says.

“I probably would not have gone to college had it not been for the counselors who pushed me to do so. I had a busy working career and all the time, my intrest in clocks grew”.

He learned about The National Association of Watch & Clock Collectors, a school that teaches others how to fix clocks. He inquired and was invited to visit the school in Columbia, Pennsylvania. “I liked what they were doing and went downstairs and signed up 1999,” he says.

He is inspired by Arthur Finn (Dr. Clock), an instructor from clock school. He would bring Lyon into his clock shop and go over everything before each class. He always made sure he noticed and understood any problem with a clock. Lyons says he valued Finn’s insight and the relationship that lasted for 10 years, even after school was over.

When Lyons isn’t working his craft, he attends Old Mt. Zion Baptist Church and studies under Pastor Clyde Glass. He also sings with the Male Chorus and serves as an assistant treasure for the Usher Board. If you are in need of his services please call him and learn more about his services. h

Lyons Clock Repair 919-225-1194 lciscoathome@aol.com

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Joy K. Alston 20 20

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Joy K. Alston, the creator, of Kimyon’s International Hair Care Products, The Distinguished Gentleman Beard Grooming Line, and J&A Cooperative Wealth Group. This phenomenal woman has established a 12 product bio-mineral hair care line that includes shampoos, conditioners, and styling products for all hair types and ethnicities in 2016.

The Distinguished Gentleman Beard Grooming Line was established in 2017, consists of all natural Oils, Balms, and Wash/ Conditioners for the maintaining of the Dapper Gents. J&A Cooperative Wealth Group established in 2017 with her Aunt A. R. Tucker, assists clients with credit restoration through education and wealth building. Joy credits her paternal grandmother, Gertrude Alston, with bestowing her with an entrepreneurial spirit.

Gertrude launched her own hair care business many years ago before Joy was born. Also, her maternal grandmother, Catherine Pate, supplied Joy with her first relaxer and many fashionforward hairstyles. Catherine is very supportive of her businesses.

Therefore, Joy has honored her ancestors’ legacy and love of hair by paying it forward for others to see the beauty in themselves .

One on One with Marage Blakeney

What motivated you to get involved with the creation of hair care products?

I decided to go “natural” almost ten years ago. I was having a hard time finding hair care products that simulated growth and healthy hair. So in March 2016, I worked with a manufacturer to create an anti-aging, collagen building, and thermos-protective natural hair care items that leave the consumer’s hair beautiful, strong, and manageable with lasting color hold.

What pitfalls did you have to overcome and how did it shape your business life?

There were several obstacles that I had to overcome. The biggest one was just having the ability to take a chance. Also, I had to understand that competition was a huge factor in the hair care industry. I came to the realization that everything begins with an idea. But you must take the steps to transform an idea from a dream into a reality. The catalyst for this transformation begins with your mindset. I became “sick and tired” of being “sick and tired”. By overcoming these challenges, including the difficulties associated with being a mother at the age of 16, I began to change my world with my words. I started to exude more confidence in myself and my business. This has afforded me the opportunity to support different industries and other hair care locations. My two biggest accomplishments are becoming a business owner and watching my 18 year old son graduate from Imeck Magnet Academy

Who embodies your definition of beauty and why?

My spiritual mother, Dr. Denae LeMay embodies my definition of beauty. She is beautiful inside and out. She is a classy lady and a woman of God. Also, she honors her husband, Dr. Stacy LeMay, takes care of her home, and is compelled to unselfishly give of herself for the betterment of others. She is the true definition of beauty and a virtuous woman.

Why do you love the beauty industry?

What is there not to love about the beauty industry? It affects everyone and we must reclaim the money that was taken out of certain communities for many years.

What is your personal life/business motto?

I have two mottos. I have a business motto and another one for my personal life. My business motto is to facilitate building wealth through entrepreneurship. My personal motto is, “I am a gift and I have a gift. I must share my gifts with the world”.

As a native of High Point, NC, Joy Alston is determined to take the hair care and financial industry by storm. Currently, Joy resides in Charlotte, NC, with her son, Corey Alston. Her goal is to have her essential hair care and a beard product available to everyone around the globe has started to come to past. She has shipped to Ontario, Canada and Nassau Bahamas. Currently she is in partnership to ship to the United Kingdom. Also, Joy is a motivational speaker dedicated to inspiring others along the way. She credits her parents, Carl Alston, Sr. and Pearlie Alston, for giving her the opportunity and drive to create change wherever she goes. Joy is passionate about God, her family, and her business. So the next time you see Kimyon’s International, The Distinguished Gentleman, and/or J&A Cooperative Wealth Group, please rest assured that Joy has placed her stamp of approval and her natural gift to the world. h

What advice would you give to entrepreneurs?

Find out what you love to do and your purpose. Once you do that, everything else will fall into place. I believe that we must give back and rebuild our communities. I am committed to providing current and future entrepreneurs with the skill sets necessary to be successful by supplying them with educational and financial resources. I am also obligated to be a sounding board for business owners.

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Information and Pictures by London Olivia Gerald

ondon Olivia Gerald is an outstanding fashion designer, model and actress who loves sewing, music, dancing and of course shopping. At nine years old, this young entrepreneur is making an impact across the globe. London has always had a leadership mind-set impressed by her parents.

In early 2015, during a trip to purchase doll clothes for her American Girl Doll, she was looking for unique and fun garments at an affordable price. This style and price conscious young lady decided that she would design her own clothes and also make matching outfits for herself. As a result, LONDON OLIVIA DESIGNS was born.

Her inspiring quote “Little girls with dreams become women with vision” holds true. This talented young lady made her debut appearance at the “Ignite Your Passion Womens Conference” in Charlotte, N.C. She is now mentored by “Away From The Chair” CEO. Her upcoming major runway shows (Walk Fashion Show and Pitch Black Runway Show in Atlanta). h

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“I started reading a draft of his book last night. It was so captivating that I found myself immersed into it. I couldn’t stop reading it.”

Najah Rosebure

“The story promotes so much hope, determination and vigilance, inspiring us to overcome obstacles!”

Paulette Counts

Johnnie Davis

Meet Johnnie Davis - His story is a testament to the human spirit’s ability to overcome the most insurmountable odds. With faith, mental toughness and sound personal development principles his story, along with the concepts he teaches in this book, will help you transform your thinking in order to develop habits necessary to achieve a winning mindset.

It’s also a love story of how a loving wife stood in the gap while facing death and helped her husband return to his greatness. Her passion, strength and love is undoubtedly the perfect example of unwavering faith and unconditional love. With this book, you will learn how to apply all of these life principles to our own journey of personal and spiritual growth to help you become the best version of you.

Johnnie Davis is a world renowned business, wealth and health strategist helping others win at life by teaching them how to transform their minds and utilize their resources to achieve success. He is a Rutgers University School of Business graduate with a B.S. degree in Marketing. He entered the direct sales industry in 1996 and retired from corporate America at the age of 31.

He is an inspirational speaker and mentor to thousands across the world. He is married to his beloved h Rachel Davis and they reside in Charlotte, NC. Charlotte - May/June 2017

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Asa Fleming

Determined To Make A Difference

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By Terry L. Watson Photos by Jerry Barbry

A process.

sa Fleming is a REALTOR® and proud member of Allen Tate Realtors® RaleighGlenwood. Described as the ultimate professional in regards to real estate transactions, Fleming’s negotiating style, knowledge, and experience is utilized to the fullest extent while he educates and guides others through the home buying and selling

He is an active member of the Raleigh Regional Association of REALTORS® (RRAR) and the North Carolina REALTORS®, where he has served on multiple committees. He served as the President of RRAR in 2013 and was a member of the 2014 National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) Leadership Academy class. Fleming is currently serving as the 2017 Chair of the NAR Leadership Academy Advisory Group.

A graduate of NC State University, Fleming worked at New York Hospital after college. When New York Hospital merged with Columbia Presbyterian Hospital to become New York Presbyterian Hospital, Fleming realized that he did not want to be part of another merger and began to explore other career options. He was fortunate to get a limousine ride with the hospital’s Chief Financial Officer who mentioned three places where Fleming should move if he wanted to get into real estate: Phoenix, Arizona, Washington D.C., and the Raleigh/Durham/Chapel Hill area of North Carolina. That was in 1999, and he moved back to North Carolina in 2001.

“I started my real estate career in Queens, New York by selling property in Ocala, Florida. It was the best job ever, and I loved being there. It is the reason why I am in real estate today,” Fleming states. He began working in real estate on a part-time basis and would work nights and weekends. “Every weekend we would fly down to Ocala and show the properties on Saturday, write up the contracts on Sunday, and then fly back Sunday night to New York.”

“I chose this business because I wanted to be in charge of my own destiny. I love the schedule flexibility as well as being able to meet and help people from all walks of life. It has been a blessing to be there for my parents, children, and my wife when they needed me the most,” he says.

Being that he was home-schooled by his mother until he was 14 years old, outside of God, Fleming says his parents have impacted his life the most. They instilled a belief and faith in God that has enabled him to make it thus far. He is also inspired by the leaders he has worked with in the real estate industry.

“By engaging with and being involved in the associations, I have been able to learn from some of the leaders in my industry that are in the trenches doing this business, fighting for private property rights, home ownership, and our industry as a whole.”

Fleming believes that the decision to get involved and engage with his peers and the leaders of his industry at the local, state, and national associations, had the greatest impact on his career.

“I chose this business because I wanted to be in charge of my own destiny. I love the schedule flexibility as well as being able to meet and help people from all walks of life.”

The flexibility of his schedule also gives Fleming the opportunity to be involved and engaged with his community. In his spare time he is active in a variety of organizations, serving on the Boards of Directors for Marbles Kids Museum, The Carying Place, Southeast Raleigh Promise, and Rebuilding Together® of the Triangle, where he is currently serving as the Chair.

Additionally, Fleming is a founding board member of Central Wake High School.

In the future, he plans to continue staying involved and engaged with the community and his industry. “I am honored to be currently running to serve as the 2018 President-Elect of the North Carolina Realtors®. I plan to mentor as many people that I can in this industry, and show them that you don’t necessarily have to be a mega producer or high profile agent to make it in this industry. You have to get involved as you only can keep what you give away, and you have to breathe out in order to breathe in to stay alive”. h

Asa Fleming, Broker, REALTOR®, SFR, AHWD Allen Tate Realtors®

3201 Glenwood Avenue, Suite 101 Raleigh, NC 27612 919-454-6480 www.AsaFleming.com

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Cutest Baby M A G A Z I N E

Levi Harris

The son of Ashlee L. Harris Photo provided by Ashlee L. Harris To submit photographs to be placed in the Huami Magazine Cutest Baby feature, please send a detailed email to mykelmedia@yahoo.com 26

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Eric Lee Ministries

Minister Eric Kinley Lee, Jr. is a native of Clinton, N.C., and the son of Reverend Eric K. Lee, Sr. and Wanda Lee. He became the happiest man in the world when he married Susan L. Lee. He was saved at the tender age of fourteen and received the baptism of the Holy Ghost at the age of sixteen.

Eric has ministered in song since the age of six. His walk of life hasn’t been easy, as he has had several struggles including rejection, self-esteem and acceptance. He has devoted his life to serving and mentoring others that have had the same struggles as he did. He currently serves as the Praise and Worship Leader and Minister at Abundant Life Christian Center COGIC under the auspices of Bishop Stenneth E. Powell, Sr. and First Lady Beverly A. Powell. While serving he has learned the value and importance of worship as a lifestyle. He has been favored to the share the stage with such gospel greats as Ivan Powell, Sr., Earnest Pugh, James Fortune, Crystal Aikin, Phillip Bryant, Fred Hammond, Byron Cage, Marcus Cole, Shirley Caesar, Ricky Dillard, Pastor Charles Jenkins and Kurt Carr.

What is your testimony?

What’s the vision for your ministry

It is one of redemption, freedom and deliverance. Growing up in a Christian home, where your father is a minister and your mother, it was firmly understood that I had to represent my family in a positive light. While I was in my hometown, I did so well, which means that my mother and father had a pretty tight grip on me. However when I went away to college in 2003, I realized that the grip was finally loosened.

I began to involve myself in a lifestyle that would defame my family and tarnish my reputation. On top of that, there were some issues of my past that contributed to this lifestyle that I had chosen. To make a long story short, I saw God’s hand one night when I was held at gun point. I saw the bullets in the gun and every attempt to kill me had failed.

From then I made a vow to God that I would help others that struggled with what I had experienced.

To reach the lost through the compassion that Jesus showed in the Word of God. To compel men, women, boys and girls, people of every race and creed to worship God unpretentiously. To draw a nation back to the face and the heart of God. To also bridge the gap between the church and the world, witnessing that as Christians we can bring Jesus to the world and change the world through our music, our words, our deeds and our goals. h

Eric Lee Ministries 103 Abercrombie Rd Wake Forest, North Carolina (919) 247-4606

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After the first year, I experienced so much in my body that it was life altering for me. I learned that it takes time to recover once your body has experienced trauma. The one thing that I never faced was fear, I believe that things happened so fast that I did not have time to process it. I was so busying going to appointment after appointment that all I wanted was to know how to prevent what happened.

I know that I am not the only one to experience having mini strokes at 38 years of age, but when you are in your 30’s you don’t think that you are old enough to have a stroke. But what I learned is a stroke does not have a name, address or an age; it can happen to anyone. Over the last six years I have had highs and lows and experienced another (TIA) in October 2016.

I truly now know the Lord as Jehovah Rapha-The Lord My Healer. It was doing the last few years that I came to know Gods word through its healing power. Healing is a gift that all can experience.

Psalm 107:20 tells us that God sent His Word and healed them. I have learned that we must speak God’s word to our individual situations. James 1:21 reveals to us to, “receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able to save your souls.” Once we realize that God’s word is engrafted which means, “to make it a living extension of your life so that it can produce spiritual fruit in you.” (www.iblp.org) change is inevitable. It is through the engrafting of God’s word that healing is produced in our bodies.

Dr. Erika Hendrix

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By Dr. Erika Hendrix

rowing up as a child I often heard my grandparents talk about God as a healer. On March 28th 2012 my life forever changed. I experienced an unusual headache a burning sensation on the top of my head that was followed by a culmination of extreme pressure. The best way to describe what I was feeling is my head felt like it was in a pressure cooker except there was no way for the steam to escape. I got up and took some medicine in hopes that my headache would go away. It never went away, but the pressure did subside. I proceeded with my day as usual except my vision was blurry and by the end of the week I had lost over eighty percent of my vision. It was at the point that I went to Urgent Care under the premise that my allergies were out of control only to find out while in the waiting room that I needed to go to the emergency room immediately, because I had unusual symptoms over a period of three days. I know for those of you who are reading this you probably would have sought out medical services before the third day. Well I am hard headed in some areas and I know that I am not the only one. But never the less I left urgent care and went to the emergency room to be meet with a team already waiting on me, because the urgent care on-call doctor called before I arrived.

I later found out that I had a series of mini strokes over three days and was diagnosed later with Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA-Mini Stroke). For the next 9 months, thereafter I went through a series of test to determine the cause. But doing this time I still had limited vision. I was unable to drive, I had difficulty with bright lights I needed minimum assistance with walking because I perceived that I was walking straight, but really, I was walking zig zag. Because of the TIA I was left with a permanent peripheral loss in my left eye and at times my eye drupes.

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I believe the imagery that we create through God’s word becomes a reality in our spiritual being. The woman with the issue of blood carried this in her body for twelve long years. Her hope was to be healed as she pressed through the crowd to touch the hem of His garment. I believe that she was at the end of her rope, she was broke and she felt that Jesus was her only hope to be healed. Like many of us she created an image that she shall be healed, and I believe she spoke it all the way through the crowd and activated her faith and she put a demand on of God’s word that she SHALL BE HEALED. In other words she gave voice to her faith.

There are times in our life when we must put a demand on God’s word and activate our faith that will produce the, “God kind of healing” that only God can perform. God’s word is the most powerful medicine we will ever have. Proverbs 4:22-“For they are life to those who find them, and health to all flesh.” Our greatest gift is to give voice to his word and let it do what it was created for; it cannot return unto Him void, but it shall accomplish what it was created to do. One of the greatest gifts we can give ourselves is selfcare. Self-care is to find a healthy balance between who and what we give out and receive, therefore we must focus on our mental, physical, spiritual and emotional care. We are our best encouragers to ourselves.

So how do ensure that self-care is a part of our lifestyle: -Self-Care is wholeness (Luke 10:27) Love the Lord your God n with all your heart, soul, mind and strength, and love your neighbor in the same way you love yourself.

-Self-Care is reducing the stress that life brings with it (1 Peter 5:7) Cast all your care upon Him, for He cares for you. Notice that He said care and not cares. Care refers to submitting our total being to Him. -Self-Care is eating properly and exercising on a regular.

-Self-Care is getting an annual physical and preventive care.

-Self-Care is taking a vacation to free your mind of the cares of this life.

In conclusion, we must be accountable to ourselves and we have a responsibility to care for this body that God has loaned to us. I like what Miles Monroe refers to our outer layer as, “our earth suits.” Therefore, as a body of believer we must know who we are. I Corinthians 6:19-20, “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; v20 you were bought at a price. Therefore, honor God with your bodies.” As a collective body, it takes all of us to be the body of Christ and it takes all us to be the temple. We are our brother and sister’s keeper. h

Dr. Erika Hendrix 336-587-8876 erikahe29@bellsout.net

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By Connie Council Photos by Connie Council

akeever Benders, stage name “Boston” was born and raised in Boston MA. Benders attended the University of MA and Saint Augustine College of Raleigh, NC where he studied Mass Communications of Arts. Benders later went on to receive his Barber License from Quincy Barbering School in MA. He has taken progressive approach in perfecting his craft for over 20 years.

His passion revolves around Industry Performance and Business Partners Focused on Expansion and Client Ultimate Fulfillment. He is credited as one of the “Most Prestigious Master Barbers” on the East Coast.

He moved to Charlotte North Carolina 7 years ago to establish a fresh new environment for his family and to take advantaged of the growing barber industry. Since being in NC, Boston has advance considerably opening two locations Concord & Kannapolis in only 4 years. Boston’s Finest Concord location listed as one of the Top 10 Barber Shops in the Concord area, also selected by Bevel (a product of Walker and Company) to represent the “Bevel Code”.

Makeever Benders

Boston’s Finest Barber Lounge is set apart from all other barber shops because of the professional environment, the ambience and most importantly because of Benders’ ability to master the idea of creating the “Key Experience” for each customer that walked through the doors. Future plans include purchasing a building in Kannapolis and opening a shop internationally in Toronto Canada.

Our Barber’s Specialize in Cuts, Specialty cuts, hot towel service, beard trimming as wells as mastering the sharp razor technique.

We also have Stylists that are passionate about maintaining the health and integrity of your natural hair. Service include, but not limited to precision cuts, braiding, cut, color and Make up. We have a current promotion $5.00 off of regular haircuts and regular hair styles cut on Tuesday and Wednesday both location.

We are showcasing our talent in a few upcoming events for the month of May and June, one of our barber’s will be competing in the 2017 Hair Games at the Charlotte Convention Center on May 21st and we are also selected to be the exclusive barbers and stylists for the Taking it to the Top Part II Fashion Show and Fundraiser held at the EpiCentre Charlotte NC sponsored by Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated. h www.styleseat.com/m/book/v/ Bostonsfinest252 906 Cloverleaf Plaza Kannapolis, NC 30 Concord Commons Plaza Concord, NC 252-368-4334

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Professional Styling Services Offered

Walk Ins Welcome

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Appointments Available

4401 E. Independence Blvd. Ste-101 Charlotte, NC 28205 980-636-7668 HuamiMagazine.com Charlotte - May/June 2017

Serving The Charlotte-Metro Area of North Carolina

Let Me Find Your Dream Home!

Would you like to know the value of your home?

Call me for a FREE Total Market Overview of your property

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I can educate you through the process

Broker/Realtor Keller Williams Realty 803-257-4222

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