Huami Magazine Greenville/Spartanburg Jan./Feb. 2018

G R EGERNEVE N I LVL IEL/L SE P NNB BUURRGG / SAPRATRAT A

Jan./Feb. 2018 Vol. 1 Issue 3 FREE

Stacey Oliver Greenville/Spartanburg - Jan./Feb. 2018

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Greenville/Spartanburg - Jan./Feb. 2018

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Are No If, Ands, Or Buts About It! My There Actions Will Make My Dreams A Reality There Are No If, Ands, Or Buts About It!

A Letter Fromfrom The Editor A Letter the Editor

Happy New from Year!the Editor A Letter What if tomorrow didn’t arrive? All of your plans, hopes If and I wasdreams to sit atwouldn’t home and dream abouttovacationing on a iftropical have a street park on. What island, my imagination would be the island I would visit.

In order everything that you decided to only put off until tomorrow never What if tomorrow didn’t arrive?

All of your plans, hopes for my physical being to be able to catch up with my imagination, I happened?

There would be no reason to save for a rainy and dreams wouldn’t have a street to park on. What if would have to make arrangements for it to do so.

Such arrangements day, and you could someone theuntil trouble of making everything that youspare decided to put off tomorrow never may happened? involve contacting a travel agent, purchasing tickets for a flight, promises.

What if your last opportunity seemingly expired There would be no reason to save for a rainy and booking a hotel room at a resort.

In other words, my reality today? wouldspare you do? day, andWhat you could someone the trouble of making will onlypromises. exist if an action madelast by opportunity me to breathe life into my dreams.

What ifis your seemingly expired I’ve been that I often today?

Whattold would you do? seem like I do too much.

Some of theIbest ever toenough me, came stormy Honestly, feel advice like I am notgiven doing andduring I’m a afirm season in mybeen life.

Though IIwasn’t quite like aware what I was believer in knowing that God seem wouldn’t put on me I’ve told that often I doofanything too much. experiencing, someone who genuinely cared about my present as well that I couldn’t sometimes wonderand how would Honestly, I feelhandle. like I amI not doing enough I’mlife a firm as my threw a that lifeand preserver.

Theyput me to pay befuture if I chose tome sit idle accept what ittold presented to me.

I believer in knowing God wouldn’t anything onvery me close attention to what was going on around me and that not everyone and haveI found that to be very boring. In my opinion, opportunity that couldn’t handle.

I sometimes wonder how life would everything I was connected to was purposed for me.

“Don’t allow is aifblessing that to what everyone.

A challenge be I chose to sitisn’t idle afforded and accept it presented to me. I that or them to kill your purpose,” I clearly recall them telling me. I to mefound is an adventure.

What is the In worst that can opportunity happen? have that to be very boring. my opinion, didn’t know what to do with it then but the picture would become If aI do nothing, if I try to I don’t, but instead learn is blessing thatI fail, isn’tand afforded everyone.

A challenge clearer for me at a later time. something new about myself. yourcan pride and in to me is an adventure.

What is Relinquish the worst that happen? return acquire life.

If I do nothing, I fail, and if I try I don’t, but instead learn It was obvious to others that I had a purpose for my life, though something new about myself. and in I wasn’t aware of it. As I tried to getRelinquish along and your fit in, pride the bottom The best advice given to me happened when someone return life.ever appeared toacquire give way.

While the winds of my storm raged with told me to make my tomorrow today. down In doing so intensity, I was pulled in one directionhappen and knocked in another.

I I have pressed my way through doors with a key that only The best advice ever given to me happened when someone began to seek help from others but that only complicated things. This hope provided.

Imy have also learned theI today. difference between me to of make tomorrow happen InIndependent” doing so was told totally out character for me because was “Mr. what God blesses me with and what life can burden me with I have pressed wayallthrough doors with key thatthings only all by and accustomed to my having of the answers andahandling as well.

I compare it to knowing when to be confident and hope provided.

I have also learned the difference between myself. when to be quiet, because what God blesses me with and what life can burden me with someone may get it confused as well.

I compare it to whenand to realize be confident and Quite often I look back at knowing that moment it was God with being arrogant. be quiet, because working through them to reach me. when Those to experiences taught me a someone may get it confused great deal about myself. I learned that Make you tomorrow withto being arrogant. it is alright be trusting and caring, today,of but most but to happen also be aware those who have importantly make it count.

Make you tomorrow been sent by the enemy to stunt my Life is but a whisper and happen today, but growth.

I also learned if I most am running we must putismake ourselves in a from importantly it count. to something that running away position toa hear it is my me, letLife it go.

When I trywhat to force is but whisper and telling us.put ourselves way into amust situation that has proven we in a I don’tposition belong there, I am asking to hear what it is for trouble.

Whatus.

God has for me is for telling me, and in order to obtain it, I TerryforL.me Watson must act upon it to make it a reality.

www.huamimagazine.com Editor In Chief

Terry L. Watson www.huamimagazine.com Alana Allen - Deputy Editor Editor In Chief

TerryWriters L. WatsonPublisher Terry L Watson

Alana Allen - Deputy Tonya Dixon Editor Terry L. Watson Dawn C. Thornton Writer Writers Alana Allen Dr. Marrissa Dick Writer Tonya JeuronDixon Dove Terry L. Terry L. Watson WatsonWriter Alana Allen Photographers Jeuron Dove Photographer Perfect Lenz Photography Ashleigh Crawley Shaw Photography Group Toni Shaw Photographer Photographers Still Shots Photography Tamara Smith Photographer DonaldPerfect Wilson

Lenz Photography Who Shotya Photography Shaw Photography Group Lolitta Stanfield Editor Still ShotsLayout Photography Who Photography MykelShotya Media Company Linda Bennett Layout Howard Gaither Photography

Mykel MediaInquiries Company General mykelmedia@yahoo.com Linda Bennett (336) 340-7844 huami.greenville@gmail.com HUAMI MAGAZINE is published bimonthly quarterly by the mykelmedia@yahoo.com Mykel Media Company. Any reproduction of any 340-7844 portion of (336) this publication is prohibited without

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On The Cover

Photo by Shaw Photography Group

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Editor/Founder Terry L. Watson Want To Advdertise?

Photo by Shaw Photography Group Terry L. Watson Please call 336-340-7844 Editor/Founder November/December 2014 Want To Advertise? Call (336)340-7844

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November/December 2014

On The Cover

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Want To Advertise? Call (336)340-7844

CONTENTS

GREENVILLE/SPARTANBURG

Church Boy

Edwin Covington

On The Cover

Olivers Financial Planning Stacey Oliver

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Rights of Disposition

Carlton L. Gray

NASHVILLE

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CHARLOTTE

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TRIAD

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CHARLOTTE

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YES Builds Consulting & Coaching Yolanda Shields Gotham City Beard Balm and Oil Edgrick Holland The Birthing Movement, Inc. Shayla Hilton and Na’Tosha Brooks BITCOIN VEGAN Justin Rhedrick

CHARLOTTE

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MEMPHIS

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Just Being Jessica Jessica Jordan Benchmark and Southwinds Realtors Chelana Allen

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2018

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Designs & Techniques by Tiffany

Tiffany Shepard

Huami Magazine Cutest Baby

August Jett

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Also Featured

Little Known Black History Facts

Huami Magazine Celebrates Black History Month

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Greenville/Spartanburg - Jan./Feb. 2018

Stacey Oliver

By Terry L. Watson Photos provided by Stacey Oliver

Stacey M. Oliver is the founder of Olivers Financial Planning Services Agency, LLC and Financial Kick Start JBJO, Inc., a non profit organization. Known for her gift of gab, in the midst of her younger years, she had cynical ramifications for people calling her “Gabby”. In Oliver’s adulthood, she figured out how to embrace her gift as she comprehended the vitality of the blessing.

With her fluent and powerful speaking, she can sell the socks off anyone. Oliver’s natural sales ability in the corporate financial arena positioned her to receive several awards for top sales with one of the largest diversified financial services companies in the United States. She is an Empowerment Speaker, Certified Accounting Clerk, Licensed Independent Agent, and serves on various boards and committees for financial wellness in the upstate of South Carolina. She has established herself as an expert in the field and is extremely insightful and keen on the financial industry.

Oliver was exposed to the world of finance at an early age by her parents. She recalls her father, James M. Scott, taking her to the bank most Saturdays and acquainting her with the bank representatives and completing a bank visit. In the midst of each visit, he demonstrated to her the proper way to do basic banking. Her parents discussed the value of money in their home and talked about writing checks, the different ways to save, and the importance of investing.

Her paternal grandparents gifted her with money to open her first minor savings account. As she continued to save, her father would take her to the bank to deposit her saved coins in her savings account. One day she found herself working at the same bank her dad took her to visit as a child.

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During her banking career, she encountered minorities of all ages who were clueless about their creditworthiness, the essentialness of investing or how to transfer wealth to their loved ones. It was then she acknowledged the urgency to venture out and establish her own business of financial planning services. She saw the absence of learning and a critical need to offer services to demonstrate to individuals generally accepted methods to be monetarily stable. Her mother, Ruby N. Scott, constantly unveiled to her that the sky has no constraints, with God all things are possible if you put Him first. In the pursuit of her purpose and destiny, she held to the principles and ethics her parents and grandparents bestowed in her. With those standards and morals, she built her family.

Oliver firmly believes that someone’s financial success is greatly determined by their ability to take ownership of their financial livelihood.

“Individuals are not able to take ownership of their finances unless they first comprehend what is shielding them from acquiring financial success.

The main culprit is barriers. Barriers will frustrate, hinder, limit, and restrict your financial wealth,” Oliver states in her book, ‘The Master Key to Complete Financial Freedom’.

With her book, Oliver empowers individuals with the “Master Key” to finding financial freedom. Her mission is to create, enlighten, and empower committed effective stewards of finances. Her firm offers impeccable services to those who want to stop living from paycheck to paycheck, want to better manage their finances, those who need a practical perspective of their financial status, need to improve their credit standing, desire to multiply their saving potential, and desire to leave a legacy. Services are available in many facets including one on one, group settings, and speaking platforms.

Olivers Financial Planning Services Agency, LLC PO Box 51363 - Piedmont, SC 29673 www.about.me/staceyoliver 864-329-6403 StaceyOliver@ofpslocksmith.com

Oliver’s primary objective is to increase her clients financial literacy awareness so they can fully understand how money works. “Money can work hard for you instead of you working hard for it. Once that concept is learned then the vicious cycle and hold of debt can be removed,” she says.

Oliver’s husband, Larry and their son, Uriah ensure she keeps her priorities in right perspective with their encouragement and support. When not ministering and working with her business, organization, and daily routine, she is enjoying life in South Carolina. h

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Edwin Covington Who is Edwin Covington?

First, I am a man created by God, to bring forth praise, honor, and glory to His name.

Secondly, I’m a husband, family man, and a minister of the gospel. I am an anointed gospel rapper that has a gift to write words and make music that touches the heart of people in an inspirational way.

What is your ministry?

The name of my ministry is the Army of God. First and foremost, my purpose is to give God’s word freely to all nations. I do evangelism work by ministering to people of all kinds and different situations. I also have a Jesus Got Me Lit apparel clothing line.

When and how did your ministy begin?

My ministry began when I was locked up for multiple crimes. It was during those times that I gave my life to God and allowed Him to come into my heart to teach me ministry.

I love the fact that I can laugh, dance, and praise and worship God with my family through my music. It’s the best feeling in the world to be able to rejoice in Jesus Christ with my own family.

What do you love most about your ministry?

The fact that I am able to inspire others to believe and follow Jesus Christ. I have faced many challenges where people didn’t receive me for who God made me to be.

Prayer and the power of God always work those situations out for my good.

How has God impacted your family?

I put God first, then my wife and kids. The more we grow together, the more love we have for each other and God continues to show us what He wants us to do for His will in our lives. My mother, sister, and brother are always in my corner when I need help or advice. I love all of my family. Family love is what makes us family.

Edwin “Church Boy” Covington has over 5 Million views to his video “Jesus Got Me Lit”.

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How did you overcome so many obstacles in your life?

The word of God. The love of God.

What is your testimony?

I was a drug user. I smoked weed and drank beer and liquor. I even sniffed cocaine. I was also robbed and shot at close range. I almost died, lots of times. I dropped out of school and sold drugs for a living. I’ve been to jail many times and spent time incarcerated in prison twice, but then came Jesus Christ. When I surrendered to Him my life changed for the better. He delivered me from selling and using drugs. He forgave me for all of my sins, gave me a new life, and a second chance to be a better man. I give all the glory to God, Hallelujah.

What advice would you give to others that may follow in your footsteps?

The advice I always give out is to do it right the first go around because we’ve did the things you don’t have to. Through all of your choices in life include God. Let God direct your path to true greatness and prosperity. My plan is to simply follow Jesus Christ the whole way. He will provide love and joy and supply all of our needs according to His riches and glory. I hope to eventually pursue my career full time. All glory be to God, Hallelujah! h

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Along with his wife Shanice, Edwin released his CD “Team Jesus”.

For Booking Call 843-493-7828 Greenville/Spartanburg - Jan./Feb. 2018

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Tiffany Shepard

By Terry L. Watson Photos by Tiffany Shepard Tiffany Shepard is a master cosmetologist and the proud owner of Designs & Techniques by Tiffany Hair Salon in Greenville, S.C. At her salon, she offers various styling and complete hair care services to anyone who is serious about the overall health of their hair. Shepard is also determined to place her skills and services amongst the very best that the hair industry has to offer, in and around South Carolina. She is doing just that with consistency, professional services, and by being a trendsetter.

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“I’ve been a growing cosmetologist for over 15 years,” Shepard says. Shepard obtained her cosmetology license in May of 2004. She followed that accomplishment by completing her instructors course in 2012. After teaching as an instructor for two years, she decided to go after her Master Hair Care License. “As I followed my dreams to educate myself as much as could, I decided to go after my final goal of becoming a business owner,” she says.

In order to accomplish her goal, she took small classes at a local technical college located in Greenville, S.C. Shepard was determined to do things the right way to ensure she was adequately equipped and prepared for whatever she may face as an entrepreneur.

Being a salon owner has its own set of unique challenges and many salons fail due to not planning properly. Shepard was determined to not be one of those individuals.

She opened the doors of Designs and Techniques by Tiffany in December of 2015, along with a staff of four professional cosmetologist. “My goal with my salon was to build a professional team and offer the highest level of customer service,” she says. Now entering her third year of business, it appears that Shepard is doing just that.

Some of the services offered are general hair care, short and natural hair, shampoo, cuts and blowouts, hair coloring, relaxers, natural hair care, trim and maintenance, and hair weaving.

The D&T styling team continuously educates themselves on the latest styles and trends of hair care and styling. This is what drives their success and ensures their clients have an even better experience.

Moving forward, Shepard plans to continue to make her salon a household name. This includes adapting and evolving in an everchanging industry. Stop by today and make your next appointment with the team of Designs & Techniques by Tiffany. h

Designs & Techniques By Tiffany 2041A Laurens Rd Greenville, South Carolina 29607

(843) 364-2406

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By Terry L. Watson Photos by Yolanda Sheilds Greatness begins with compassion and genuineness. Those two words can be used to describe Yolanda Shields of Nashville, Tennessee. Shields has deep roots in entrepreneurship, faith, and family. As the mother of one son, Roland Jr., she has also served as a great role model to him.

He is also an entrepreneur and started his first business at the age of 11.

Now 26, he is still making waves in his respective business circle.

Shields grew up listening and watching her grandfather run a businesses he started in Alaska during the 1950’s. “I knew as a child that I would start something. I felt that if my grandfather as a black man could start a successful business in the 50’s, surely I could,” she says. So that is exactly what Yolanda did.

Presently, Shields manages YES Builds Coaching and Consulting.

She offers high-energy innovative hands-on training seminars and coaching with a dynamic tandem facilitation style, tool-packed to equip you for success. Headquartered in Nashville, Tennessee, YES Builds is a consulting and training firm with a focus on business strategy, sustainability, executive coaching, and training for small and midsize forprofit and nonprofit companies worldwide.

“I have a passion for business and empowering others to succeed in all that God has for them,” Shields explains. “As an author, speaker, coach and business strategist, I assist individuals in moving their vision forward with clarity, strategy, and activation. It is one thing to have an idea but the realization of it happens when you are able to put a plan together to move it forward.” Her first book, ‘Letters to Our Sons’ was released in 2011. In 2016, she followed this feat with a second book, ‘Entrepreneurship is a Mindset not a Storefront’ in 2016.

to working for someone, but would tell herself “If I can do it for them I can do it for me”. “When those times come you have to get creative and innovative and I have done just that with great collaborations and partnerships. I know those thoughts will continue to come and that’s when I reevaluate what we are doing and why and make changes where they’re needed. You have to keep it fresh and relevant and not get stuck doing things that are not working or bringing in revenue and great value to your clients and customers,” Shield says.

As an entrepreneur, Shield loves the opportunities she has to make an impact on the next generation with her Youth Entrepreneurship Summit.

The summit is hosted each summer, along with her Entrepreneurship Power Hour in middle and high schools. “I believe entrepreneurship is about finding solutions to problems and I love that I am able to play a role in helping my clients find solutions,” she said.

As Shields continues to move forward, her focus remains with faith, family and friends. “Sometimes you don’t see how much you have accomplished until it’s shared by others. My faith in God continues to remind me that I am destined to win as I walk towards all that I was born to accomplish. I am inspired by the many women and men throughout history that have paved the way for me and how hard they pushed without giving up. That is why I don’t give up,” she says. “Never take small beginnings for granted. Every opportunity is leading you to the next open door. Always give 100 percent and remember things happen when you not only talk about your dreams and visions, but when you put action steps and a plan in place. Give more than expected, be a lifelong learner, give back, never stop believing in yourself, work hard, and always have a prayer strategy.” h

She has over 20 years of experience as a business leader as well as international workforce development and social entrepreneurship in the continent of Africa and other third World Countries. She has also traveled extensively throughout the United States, France, and Africa, which has helped her to expand her reach in the area of business. Shields has an MBA (Human Resource Management and Entrepreneurship) and has been appointed by Tennessee Governor, Bill Haslam to the Labor and Workforce Development Board for the State of Tennessee and Vice Chair of the Oversight Committee.

Throughout her career, Shields has worked with many corporations for-profit and non-profit and currently serves as a mentor at Vanderbilt University’s Wond’ry Innovation Center. She has been privileged to work with various celebrities such as CeCe Winans, Darrell Green, Art Monk, Tony Boselli, and many others. “My work always includes a component that gives back which is a core value for me and has been a part of the work I do in the continent of Africa and the USA. I believe if you are a servant leader and give back you will succeed. I am a passionate leader that believes everyone should have an opportunity to succeed in whatever they are called to do and it is possible with the right training and support,” she says.

She launched Yes Builds after holding many senior level positions and running several businesses, including consulting part-time for well over 15 years and decided it was time to do it full time. “I tell many entrepreneurs it’s okay to start small and build something that can be sustainable,” she says. Entrepreneurship is not easy but it is rewarding if you have a plan and resources to sustain the work during hard times.

She admits there have been many times she wanted to quit and go back

Nashville, TN (347) 454-2093 www.yesbuilds.com 17

Birthi Na’tosha & Shayla 18

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By Dr. Marrissa Dick Photos by Shaw Photography Group hen most people think about the birthing process they often think of it in the natural.

You know carrying a baby for nine months, experiencing labor, then pushing the baby out with mixed emotions and a great deal of travailing pain. Well, Shayla Hilton and Na’tosha Brooks assert that this same process takes place spiritually with women and young girls who are pregnant with promise and purpose.

ing

Shayla and Na’tosha are the Co-Founders of The Birthing Movement whose mission is to assist women and young girls, who are pregnant with purpose, on how to birth out the promises of God. Both Shayla and Na’tosha understand the dilemma women and young girls face when they are trying to find their destiny but have no clue on how to get there.

Shayla says, “We both understand the process of pushing toward your destiny. We understand how it feels when you know God has placed a gift inside of you, but you just don’t know how to bring it to pass or who to turn to for help. We firmly believe that God has given us all a destiny -- a purpose. He’s given us all a dream and a vision but working through that process involves pain and struggle. The Birthing Movement helps people push through that pain and struggle, so they can arrive at their destiny. We recognize every woman and young girl isn’t going to get there the same way, so we stand by their side by offering them different types of support systems, so they can produce everything God has placed inside of them.”

Both women agree that the birthing process is a journey. Na’tosha shares that, “Planning, Pushing, and Producing Purpose is a journey.

Since the Birthing Movement has begun to flourish we have seen so many women and young girls at different stages in developing their gift. Some need to start from scratch while others are midway but have gotten sidetracked along the way and then some may just need a gentle reminder of the gift God has planted inside of them. Then there are those women who have pressed and are almost at the end, but they lack the financial resources or connections to bring it all together. Either way, The Birthing Movement is here to support them wherever they are in their process and for each person what that help looks like is going to be different.”

The Movement, The Mission

To assist women

Pregnant with Purpose

on how to push

through the pain of BIRTHING out the

promises of GOD

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Any woman who has given birth can describe in detail her experience just as those women who have experienced multiple births will quite possibly tell you that each pregnancy and birth was different. The Birthing Movement understands that difference. They are aware that there are other organizations who aid women and young girls, but the difference with The Birthing Movement is that they stand with their mentees for the long haul.

According to Na’tosha, “We acknowledge that we’re not the only organization out here assisting women, but we believe what we’re offering is unique because first, we see what we do as a ministry and second, we commit ourselves to the entire process. We’re not your typical organization inviting women in to hear a great Word and get them on this spiritual high, have lunch, then not hear from the organization until the following year. No, that’s not what we do. Shayla and I don’t leave you. When you leave from one of our conferences you leave with an anointed Word, yes, but you also leave with the necessary tools and connections, so you can produce your purpose. We’re here to stick with you throughout the year or until you don’t need us anymore.”

One could look at these two women as “Spiritual Doulas.” The word doula is a Greek word that means woman servant or caregiver.

It also means someone who offers emotional and physical support to a woman before, during, and after childbirth. In essence, a doula believes in mothering the mother. Do you see the connection? This is exactly what Shayla and Na’tosha do with the women and young girls they connect with - - they mother the person that God has planted a seed in. They are available once the seed has been planted to help you, Plan; they are available during the labor to help you breathe and securely hold your hand while you, Push; and finally, they are there with you when you, Produce your Purpose and cradle it in your hands. Isn’t that what all nurturing mothers do? Mother’s don’t let go until they have seen you through.

“Personally, I believe that God has blessed us with this ability because He wants us to be able to push women into their purpose. I really feel like this is my calling in life. To come along side other women and support them.”

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Did you ever wonder how your mother could look at you and tell that you have been up to no good or she always knew when you were telling her an “untruth?” Well, Shayla and Na’tosha are no different. Their spiritual eye is their administrative compass when it comes to working both inside and outside of ministry.

Shayla recalls, “It’s amazing that we both have very strong administrative gifts and we’re both able to look at something and see where things can be improved or done differently.

We just have an eye for those types of details.

We just know what should have been done or what needs to be done next. So, with that we began thinking we could do this for ourselves.

Personally, I believe that God has blessed us with this ability because He wants us to be able to push women into their purpose. I really feel like this is my calling in life. To come alongside other women and support them along the way especially since I didn’t have that when I was trying to discover my purpose. In the early stages, I knew I was pregnant with purpose, but I needed someone to help me birth it, to teach me, and to guide me through the process. I know just how difficult new experiences can be and that’s why The Birthing Movement is here to lend the type of support it does. Na’tosha and I are here to hold that woman or young girl accountable to her destiny.”

The Bible tells us in Matthew 18:20 “For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.”

And yes, He was there in the midst of it all a few years ago when Shayla and Na’tosha first met at Mt. Zion Baptist Church. It’s very easy to see the spiritual connection God has knitted between these two women.

Na’tosha says, “I love the fact that we trust one another and we both hear from the Lord and go with His leading. For me just having Shayla there to have an encouraging word and keep us on target is great. We’re not teaching something that we don’t practice in our own lives daily. The Birthing Movement is here to change that language of doubt. Instead of saying I don’t know if I can do this you say I can definitely do this, I’m going to do this. I’m going to keep going. I’m not going to quit. Truthfully, we can’t quit. You can’t quit because there are others out there waiting on us to share our success stories. The Birthing Movement is for every woman and young girl who believes they are pregnant with promise.”

Shayla and Na’tosha would like the community to know that they are extremely tangible. In fact, they are accustomed to being on the ground and serving the needs of the people. It is their desire to make an impact by aiding women and young girls along their spiritual birthing process.

“We acknowledge that we’re not the only organization out here assisting women, but we believe what we’re offering is unique because first, we see what we do as a ministry and second, we commit ourselves to the entire process.”

Continued on the next page

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According to Shayla and Na’tosha, “We try to be as real and relatable as possible. No one is too big or too small and there is no respect of person. None of us have “arrived” we’re all in this together. We’re traveling this journey together.” What’s wonderfully unique about The Birthing Movement is the accountability piece that’s incorporated into this organization. “We’re going to remain in contact with our women and young girls throughout the year and help them meet their goals. We’re not going to have just this one time together and then we move on. No, we want to really remain connected and build relationship.”

To learn how you can become a part of The Birthing Movement or register for their April 6 – 7, 2018 conference being held at the Wyndham Garden Hotel in Greensboro, North Carolina please contact Shayla Hilton or Na’tosha Brooks.

@ TheBirthingMovement

@TheBirthingMove

@TheBirthingMovement

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Jessica Just Being

By Jessica Jordan Photos by Donald Wilson Jessica Jordan is a distinguished healthcare professional with more than 10 years of business experience, including seven years focused in healthcare with Fortune 500 companies and large hospital systems. She recently earned a Master of Health Administration (MHA) from Pfeiffer University. The program combined rigorous business and healthcare administration academics with practical experience for mastering the managerial aspects of healthcare.

Jessica also holds a Bachelor of Science in Public Health (BSPH) from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. She is currently a Clinical Coordinator in Charlotte, NC and has ambitions to become a Healthcare Administrator in the future.

Jessica attributes her inspiration to achieve both academic and career successes to her mother LaFondra T. Jordan. She was a major influence of which motivated Jessica to obtain her postgraduate degree. Jessica shares, “My mother was a successful, intelligent woman who provided leadership as an IT Administrator. She and I started our post graduate effort together to obtain Masters Degrees. She was enrolled in the Master of Science in Information Technology (MSIT) program at North Carolina Agricultural & Technical State University. Sadly, in 2014 she had to suspend her studies due to the reoccurrence of breast cancer. However, despite battling with cancer, she always encouraged and motivated me to keep going and finish my graduate program. I will never forget the example she set. For that reason, I dedicate my graduate degree in her memory.” Jessica’s mother passed in March 2016.

Currently, Jessica is also deeply committed to community service and giving back. She demonstrates this commitment through serving in several civic organizations. Her contributions include volunteering with Freedom School Partners and Hands-On Charlotte. She is also a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. When away from work Jessica enjoys spending time with family and exploring international travel. h

“Despite battling with cancer, she always encouraged and motivated me to keep going and to finish my graduate program. I will never forget the example she set. For that reason, I dedicate my graduate degree in her memory.”

Jessica’s mother LaFondra passed in March 2016 after a long and hard fought battle with Breast Cancer.

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edgrick

Holland

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Greenville/Spartanburg - Jan./Feb. 2018

By Terry L. Watson Photos by Still Shots Photography Edgrick Holland of Salisbury N.C. was raised in New York City, NY. He has seen the tougher side of things and still manages to maintain a calm and sensible demeanor. He is a former high school basketball star who also played at the collegiate level. He retired from the New York Police Department as a detective. After retiring, Holland decided to relocate to the slower ways of the south where most of his family resides and where there are fewer traffic jams and parking struggles.

He refers to New York as Gotham City. That is also the namesake for a line of products he has created for men, Gotham City Beard Balm and Oil. He launched his business online in April 2017.

“I hand craft beard balm and beard oils to moisturize the skin beneath your beard and tame and style large beards.

Short or not so thick beards can benefit from my products because the focus is to stimulate the hair follicles and help with hair growth,” he says. The balm and oils are made with organic ingredients such as Almond Oils, Argan Oils, Beeswax, and Essential Oil including Tea Tree to help fight skin irritations beneath beards.

“Ever since I was a young teenager I dealt with facial hair and actually had a fully connected beard by the time I was 17 years old. I would shave my facial hair off at times. I was rushing nature’s natural process. This mistake caused rashes, in grown hairs, and irritations. Having to take public transportation to school, I usually rushed out the door and didn’t have time to groom my beard so I just decided to let it grow. From that early experience I started using home remedies such as olive oil and baking soda to help remove irritations and bumps from shaving. This method often caused more irritation and discomfort,” he says.

GOTHAM CITY BEARD BALM & OIL

980-234-6445 www.gothamcitybeardbalm.com

Holland’s adult son has dealt with Atopic Dermatitis/ Eczema since he was a toddler. He would use natural oils to help with his son’s condition and started mixing up oils to help with his own skin. He applied the mixture to his beard to help hydrate and remove beard dandruff (beardruff) and itchiness with good expectations.

“As men, we shampoo our hair and suds run down to our face which eventually dries out our beards. Shampoo for our scalp hair is not formulated for sensitive facial area. I’ve recently added a natural organic unscented beard shampoo to restore and help keep natural oils and moisture and replace nutrients removed from harsh scalp shampoo,” he says.

Beard care is becoming more prevalent in today’s society.

There are several platforms established to help men become educated on how to care for theirs. “I love to help educate anyone who wants to grow and keep a beard and also teach them the importance of not neglecting their facial hair. A well-groomed maintained beard says a lot about a man,” he says.

Holland named his business and product line Gotham City from New York. Two of his signature scents are named Gotham and Crusader. His cherry tobacco scented formula is very popular. There is also a peppermint scented product which helps stimulate hair follicles for beard growth. “If you’re going to wear it, be about it, groom it, baby it, and be about it,” he says. h

Greenville/Spartanburg - Jan./Feb. 2018

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MAGAZINE

Cutest Baby 28

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August Jett The son of Melody and Rashaan Jett Photo provided by Still Shots Photography

Greenville/Spartanburg - Jan./Feb. 2018

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

Justin Rhedrick

BitcoinVegan Consulting

By Terry L. Watson Photos by Justin Rhedrick What is a Bitcoin? This question is being asked by many individuals lately. Yet, there aren’t many resources available to answer it.

However, there is someone who has focused their attention on doing just that, answering the mystique about Bitcoin.

Justin Rhedrick is a 28-year-old single father of a bright and brilliant young lady. He is also dedicated to maintaining a healthy lifestyle, so much so that he transitioned from a vegetarian to vegan diet.

Rhedrick is an avid reader of information on Cryptocurrency, having a keen focus on Bitcoin. With the knowledge obtained on Bitcoin, he has launched a company, BitcoinVegan which offers a very diverse line of products.

One of the services he offers is Bitcoin Consultation. Rhedrick says this level is ideal for beginners who have never heard of Bitcoin but may have questions about it. These questions may include how to set up a Bitcoin wallet, where to buy Bitcoins, and who accepts them. For individuals already familiar with Bitcoin but may want to know more, Rhedrick provides guidance and directions to sources where they can learn more about the Bitcoin and Crypto currency space outside of just watching price swings, updates, news feeds, and business applications.

Additional products include teaching Bitcoin Technology. This allows him to share resources with clients to help them learn how to run a full Bitcoin node, and direct them through the steps to implement the new updates for personal or business use. There are programming services available as well. “I’m currently increasing my skills as I increase my Bitcoin toolkit with different coding languages so I can design and create apps for my clients using apps for general use or apps for Bitcoin blockchain,” he says.

His business started early in 2017 by first explaining Bitcoin to his family and friends. Due to the constant information and updates that was happening in Bitcoin, he started realizing the need for expert advice to spread the truth about it. “Our society is overloaded with fear or false evidence appearing real. This includes fake news or alternative facts which makes it difficult for new opportunities to prevail that could change someone’s life. Some choose to go with what they know even if the results or outcomes never change. I remain encouraged when I am able to meet new people and share this great opportunity. At the end of the day, when one more person is enthusiastic about exploring Bitcoin, it is a win,” says Rhedrick.

There are many advantages to Bitcoin. Decentralization has kept Bitcoin safe for ten years and has the largest global network effect besides religion and social media. “All other altcoins or digital currencies are testnets for Bitcoin. Anything they think they can do, Bitcoin can adopt it or already has,” he says.

Understanding that African Americans are some of the greatest consumers and spend over a trillion dollars a year, Rhedrick wanted to know what it would look like if they invested those dollars in Bitcoin.

“We could then give back to our community to help eliminate poverty which is the greatest contributor to most of our societal ills such as poor education, homelessness, and more,” he says.

The healthy side of Rhedrick’s business involves Vegan Coaching.

With his first business, Vegan on the Go, Rhedrick is able to provide consultation and food service for his Vegan clientele. “Healthy eating is the key to a healthy lifestyle,” he says. “As a vegan, process chemicals are stripped from ones’ diet thus allowing clearer thinking and an overall better health. I am committed to working with individuals or families and assisting them with transitioning to a vegan diet”. I am very aware of the food deserts our communities are affected by. I believe resolutions to these issues can be found with organic farmers and natural health remedies,” he says. “Family is important to me and I want to see families thrive holistically”.

Rhedrick says his family started the fire in him from birth to be an entrepreneur and a self-starter. “Two brothers, Darrin Miller El (Sr. Consultant Moab Bit Association) and Isaiah Jackson (Vice President of KRBE), encouraged me to start consulting. My daughter is my greatest inspiration. Just looking at her huge smile and hearing her call mdaddy makes getting up every morning worth it,” he says. h

Justin Rhedrick 980-729-4228 rhedrick32@gmail.com 29

Rights of Knowing What To Do Before The Time Arrives Information provided by Carlton L. Gray

2810 Kidd Road - Raleigh, NC 27610 919-231-6120 www.carltonlgrayfuneral.com This rule or law may vary from state to state to some degree, but it is the most universally accepted manner of establishing and defining the responsible party. For our article we will be using the laws set forth in the state of North Carolina General Statute 130420(a).

It very important to know that the state of North Carolina does not recognize common law marriage as of this article. So if you have a spouse that has not legally divorced from a prior marriage, it could cause some conflict of interest at the time of death. Here are the Rights of Disposition for the state of North Carolina.

G.S. 130A-420(a).

If a decedent has left no written authorization for the cremation and disposition of the decedent’s body as permitted under subdivision (1) of this subsection, the following competent persons in the order listed may authorize the type, method, place, cremation, and disposition of the decedent’s body:

A The surviving spouse. of the surviving children who are at least 18 years of age B Aandmajority can be located after reasonable efforts.

C The surviving parents.

A majority of the surviving siblings who are at least 18 years of

D age and can be located after reasonable efforts.

E

A majority of the persons in the classes of the next degrees of kinship, in descending order, who, under State law, would inherit the decedent’s estate if the decedent died intestate who are at least 18 years of age and can be located after reasonable efforts.

F

A person who has exhibited special care and concern for the decedent and is willing and able to make decisions about the cremation and disposition.

G

In the case of indigents or any other individuals whose final disposition is the responsibility of the State or any of its instrumentalities, a public administrator, medical examiner, coroner, State-appointed guardian, or any other public official charged with arranging the final disposition of the decedent may serve as the authorizing agent.

H

In the case of individuals who have donated their bodies to science or whose death occurred in a nursing home or private institution and in which the institution is charged with making arrangements for the final of the decedent, a representative of such institution a disposition may serve as the authorizing agent in the absence of any of the above.

the absence of any of the above, any person willing to assume b Inresponsibility as authorizing agent, as specified in this act.

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Little Known Black History Facts

Huami Magazine Celebrates Our Nation’s Black History

Information provided by www. http://pickettsmill.typepad.com (101 Little Known Black History Facts)

Louis Latimer

Ruth Ella Moore

Louis Latimer was the only African American engineer/ scientist member of the elite Edison Pioneers research and development organization. Until Latimer’s process for making carbon filament, Edison’s light bulbs would burn only for a few minutes. Latimer’s filament burned for hours.

Ruth Ella Moore received a Ph.D. in Bacteriology from Ohio State University in 1933 becoming the first black female to do so.

Dr. Moore served as the Head of the Department of Bacteriology at Howard University Medical College from 1947 to 1958.

Fanny Jackson Coppin

Frederick McKinley Jones If you enjoy buying fresh food from across the country at your local supermarket, you have an African American inventor named Frederick McKinley Jones to thank. He invented the air-cooling units used in food transporting trucks in the 1930s, and was awarded more than 60 patents over the course of his life, 40 of which involved refrigeration equipment.

Fanny Jackson Coppin, bought into freedom by her aunt, was an educator and missionary. Her innovations as head principle of the Institute of Colored Youth included a practice teaching system and an elaborate industrial training department.

Sarah Boone

Walter S. McAfee

African American Sarah Boone patented an improvement to the ironing board on April 26, 1892.

Sarah Boone’s ironing board was designed to be effective in ironing the sleeves and bodies of ladies’ garments.

Walter S. McAfee is the African American mathematician and physicist first calculatedthe speed of the moon. On January 10, 1946 a radar pulse was transmitted towards the moon. Two and a half seconds later, they received a faint signal, proving that transmissions from earth could cross the vast distances of outer space.

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Chelena Allen Love is Giving

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Greenville/Spartanburg - Jan./Feb. 2018

By Terry L. Watson Photos by Chelena Allen There are many adjectives that could be used to describe Memphis Tennessee resident, Chelena Allen. She might say that she’s dependable and rock solid, where others who are close and dear to her would exceed that accolade with loyalty. She has an unwavering passion to give and help others achieve their goals; a loving duty of a Christian woman who strives for excellence in all she does, whether as a wife, mother or friend.

“I love to grind. I am a go-getter and set high goals for myself. Even more, I hope that my actions are a great example for others who are watching me,” she says.

Allen holds a bachelors degree from Missouri State University (formerly Southwest Missouri State University) in Springfield, MO. She is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority and a member of The New Olivet Worship Center at Woodland Hills. She is also a Broker Associate for BenchMark at Southwind Realtors, LLC and specializes in residential sales in Memphis and the surrounding areas.

“I have always had an interest in Real Estate. My background is in sales, marketing, and public relations though I have worked in the banking, healthcare, and education industries as well. After several years of corporate America, I decided to take a step away and work for myself. Once my son was born, I knew that going back into the corporate world was not an option for me, so I decided to take a leap of faith and follow my desire of becoming a Real Estate agent,” she says. Her prior experience made the transition into being a full-time entrepreneur very smooth. Now her career provides more flexibility in regards of scheduling for everyone in her family.

Chelena plans to eventually obtain her Real Estate Broker’s license.

In addition to earning various real estate certifications and credentials, she also plans to expand her services and receive real estate licenses in multiple states.

Helping people achieve their goal of home ownership is the primary objective for Allen as an agent. When someone’s face lights up after finding their dream home, or the moments when sellers receive an offer that’s above and beyond their expectations, Allen knows that she has done her job. “I love real estate because it’s never the same. I’m never bored in my career. Every single client and situation is different and it allows me to uniquely adapt to every client,” Allen says.

Allen’s life has been impacted mostly by past corporate America experiences. Those jobs gave her invaluable experience, however, she saw a lot of what she did not want to become. “I did not want to be one of those people who woke up dreading going to a job five days a week and living for the weekends. I did not want to become a whiner, a complainer, or miserable,” she says. Those experiences coupled with a belief in herself pushed Allen to make several changes in her life. “When I was younger, I pictured myself in high powered corporate positions. As reality set in, I realized I had less and less in common with most of the people with whom I worked. I faced jealousy, intimidation, and harassment. I heard God telling me, “you don’t belong here”.

He had given me everything I needed to create my own success.

Obediently, I decided to walk away and haven’t looked back,” she says.

Allen offers a bit of sound advice for others who may possibly follow in her footsteps. “If you are considering a career in real estate, I advise you to thoroughly study the industry. There are so many facets to consider and areas you can pursue. Find out what interest you. Is it residential sales, commercial sales, or property management? Don’t be afraid to step out and do something different. Follow where your heart is leading you and don’t ever give up. You can create whatever you want if your desire is in tact. Being an entrepreneur is not easy. Be ready to put in the blood and tears to achieve your goals because there will be sleepless nights and self doubt. Yet, remember that there is always something bigger,” she says. h

“I did not want to be one of those people who woke up dreading going to a job five days a week and living for the weekends.

I did not want to become a whiner, a complainer, or be miserable.”

Chelena Allen BenchMark at Southwind Realtors, LLC 3350 Players Club Pkwy,. Ste. 230 Memphis,TN 38125 901-338-9608

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UPSTATE SOUTH CAROLINA “I Would Love To Meet You” Call Me Today To Learn More

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