Huami Magazine Raleigh/Durham September 2020

RALEIGH-DURHAM

Sept./Oct. 2020 Volume 3 Issue 9 FREE

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CenterStage In The City Creating Memories That Last A Lifetime

Lamont & Stephanie Raleigh/Durham - September/October 2020

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The Lessons of Life Do Have A Purpose A Letter From The Editor

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

I am not a spring chicken, and what that clearly means is that I have been around the track a few times. That also indicates that I have seen a few things, some good and some bad. My decisions A Letter from the Editor haven’t always been correct, and there have been moments of difficulty where my actions didn’t make any sense to me. But through it all, there is one constant that has never changed; the What if tomorrow didn’t arrive? All of your plans, hopes lessons that only life can provide. and dreams wouldn’t have a street to park on. What if everything that you decided to put off until tomorrow never Though I have been battered and bruised along the way, happened? There would be no reason to save for a rainy because I am still here, it proves that God has a purpose for my day, and you could spare someone the trouble of making adversity and a reason for my existence. Though it may be hard at promises. What if your last opportunity seemingly expired times, I have realized that my purpose is attached to those lessons. today? What would you do?

www.huamimagazine.com Terry L Watson Publisher www.huamimagazine.com Editor In Chief Writer Dawn C. Thornton Terry L. Watson Terry L. Watson Writer

ThereI’ve is comfort in that taking the easy life, but the easy way been told I often seemroad like in I do too much. out doesn’t offer growth.

One ofdoing the biggest Honestly, I feel like I am not enoughmisconceptions and I’m a firm is that silence means that everything is alright.

That is not always believer in knowing that God wouldn’t put anything on me correct because silence can mask hurt, disappointment, confusion, that I couldn’t handle. I sometimes wonder how life would and disconnection. because someone voice to their be if I chose toJust sit idle and accept whatdoesn’t it presented me. I feelings and opinions, it doesn’t mean they do not have any to say. have found that to be very boring. In my opinion, opportunity It could possibly indicate the exact opposite.

They could have is a blessing that isn’t afforded to everyone. A challenge a wholetocircus on the inside never show because it has me is going an adventure.

Whatand is the worst thatit can happen? become easier to remain silent and emotionless.

However, God If I do nothing, I fail, and if I try I don’t, but instead learn desires for us tonew speak. something about myself. Relinquish your pride and in

Alana Allen - Deputy Editor Writers

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return acquire life.

In the holy bible, in the book of Psalms 34:1 NLT, it says “I will praise the all times.

I will constantly speak when His praises.”

TheLord bestat advice ever given to me happened someone This verse offers clear instructions from God on what our told me to make my tomorrow happen today. In doing so responsibilities are as Wedoors can’t stay faced I have pressed myChristians. way through with silent a key when that only with adversity; we must speak Eventhe during difficulties, there hope provided.

I have alsoout. learned difference between is resolve weand callwhat on God. whatand Godpromise blesses when me with life can burden me with as well. I compare it to knowing when to be confident and Living in a world that isbecause when to be quiet, filled with so much chaos someone may get itand confused misunderstanding, being silent only with being arrogant. fuels the problem. When you have an opportunity to speak, you must Make you tomorrow do so with the love of God in your happen today, but most heart, and on your lips. importantly makeThough it count.your pain may seem endless, love has the Life is but a whisper and ability to a lifetime of brokenness. wefix must put ourselves in a position to hear what it is telling us.

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HUAMI MAGAZINE is published bimonthly 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 Email or Telephone terry.editor@yahoo.com terry.editor@yahoo.com or to 336-340-7844 Mykel Media Company, LLC P.O. Box 20102 Greensboro, NC 27420 HUAMI MAGAZINE 2020 All 2014 All Rights RightsReserved Reserved

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Terry L. Watson Editor/Founder Raleigh/Durham - September/October

On The Cover

2020

Photo by Shaw Photography Group

CONTENTS

SEPT./OCT. 2020

RALEIGH/DURHAM

Amanda Eaddy McKeithan 24

Verve Fitness

The Literary Enthusiast

On The Cover

CenterStage In The City

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Lamont and Stephanie

He Is More Than An Overcomer

LaRont’e Watson Ellerbee

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Monique Walker

Huami Magazine Cutest Baby

Morry Lee Johsnon

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Also Featured

Danielle Bertrand For the women who need a little encouragement and motivation. Girl, It’s Go Time!

Dallas, TX

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Shamika and Jason Minisee Their story is one that’s worth sharing. Meet the founders of Presidential Concrete LLC. Huntsville, AL

Raleigh/Durham - September/October 2020

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HuamiMagazine.com

Raleigh/Durham - September/October 2020

CenterStage In The City

Creating Memories That Last A Lifetime

By Dawn Cauthen Thornton Photos by Still Shots Photography This year has been nothing short of conflicting.

In the middle of a worldwide health pandemic, we’ve all had to make unimaginable pivots in our daily lives. Families can’t celebrate important milestones or even partake in activities together unless there are less than 50 people in attendance.

Even still, how does one decide on who to invite, how to interact, and simply how to conduct a gathering?

Many businesses have decided to completely shut down because customers aren’t calling, money is tight, and people’s health is the number priority. Instead of closing their doors, CenterStage in the City went into survival mode adjusted their business practices to reopen and continue effectively serving the needs of their clients, while putting safety first. Co-Owners and Lamont Bradsher and Stephanie Carver put their creative minds together and crafted ways for couples to share their wedding day, baby gender reveals, birthday parties, and other important events with their loved ones, without completely missing out on the moment.

A popular work-around has been to pre-record the special day as if it were preCovid-19, complete with entertainment, lighting, décor, and any other happenings, then present it on the actual day as scheduled.

“If you don’t tell anyone, they won’t know that the event was pre-recorded. Then they can use their own platform and their friends and family can log in and watch as if they’re there on the actual date you’ve set,” they explain. Carver, who serves as the manager of the business while Bradsher serves as the marketing director. Their responsibilities are endless. It takes an enormous amount of effort to plan this type of event, but it has become one of the more popular options.

The couple will travel to unlimited locations and currently has a partnership with Grandover Resort in Greensboro, NC.

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Lamont Bradsher’s Sumthin 4 Tha People Band is available to perform, and custom Gobo lighting can be installed to better enhance the experience.

With these packages, Bradsher’s Sumthin 4 Tha People Band is often available to perform, custom Gobo lighting can be installed to better enhance the experience. Evenmore, Carver puts her graphic design expertise to good use and creates signage to be displayed on walls, floors and any surface chosen.

Carver has found herself creating more signage for businesses explaining CDC guidelines, and social distancing requirements, including floor and wall stickers, banners and even stencils since stickers peel and wear down.

Their menu of options doesn’t stop there. As the pandemic looms, the couple offers virtual homegoing services, digital commemorative booklets (video and print), and a full sound package for the celebration of life. The two try to make the daunting process as easy as possible for the grieving family.

Innovation has been forced on the world since March, and Bradsher and Carver have found great value in the virtual world. “We can reach so many more people at one time, so we know that what we’re doing works. And we want to take out the negative stigma that a lot of people may have.”

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The couple has found that once someone receives the video of a special event they were scheduled to attend, they actually enjoy it just as much, if not more than being in person because they leave with a professional video they can look at for years to come. And if you need the equipment to view the videos, Bradsher has partnered with AV Gorilla for audio-visual installations.

CenterStage in the City is a one-stop shop for planning amazing events, and the two faith-filled owners haven’t spared one detail to properly serve their customers. They’re implementing ideas daily to assist their clients in staying connected to those they love without missing the in-person interaction.

It’s evident that Carver and Bradsher pour every ounce of energy into their endeavors and they proudly serve faithfully while doing it. From parenting, to ministry, to entertaining, they plan to do it all and God guides them every step of the way. h

Stephanie Carver has found herself creating more signage for businesses explaining CDC guidelines, and social distancing requirements, including floor and wall stickers, banners and even stencils since stickers peel and wear down.

Serving Durham and The Surrounding Areas

www.centerstageinthecity.com 919-724-5926 919-599-5656 9

Danielle Bertrand Girl, It’s Go Time

By Terry L. Watson Photos by Crowned Photography, LeAnn Nicole Danielle Bertrand is a native of Baton Rouge, LA, but now resides with her husband, Lance in Dallas, TX. “I am the daughter of the King of Kings. I know my purpose is to manifest Heaven on Earth,” she says.

She is also the daughter of Kelvin and Sharon Duncan. Danielle graduated from Scotlandville Magnet High School in Baton Rouge and earned her B.A. in Business Management with a concentration in Small Business and Entrepreneurship from Southeastern Louisiana University. Additionally, she earned her Master’s in the Art of Teaching from Grand Canyon University and is a certified business educator in the states of Louisiana and Texas. She has served as a high school teacher for seven years, teaching various business courses. Yet, Danielle’s most impressive feat is having authored and being the founder of “Girl, It’s Go Time”.

The purpose of the book Danielle says is to empower women to get off the sideline and pursue their dreams boldly. The theme of the book is traveling from your current routine to the life you were designed to live. The business component for “Girl, It’s Go Time” serves as a platform that she uses to coach and speak. “This originally was just the title of my first book, but has now turned into a national brand,” she says.

Danielle shares that her writing journey began by journaling daily. “It was a release for me and a chance to get my thoughts down on paper. When the idea of writing a book came about, I rejected it.

That is not what I wanted to do. However, the Holy Spirit continued to say that was my next assignment.

I would start writing and then stop. This happened multiple times. One day, I asked God what my next assignment was? He said, “Finish the book”. At that point I knew what I had to do and got serious about completing the book. In July of 2019, it was published and available for purchase,” she says.

“Girl, It’s Go Time” is available in autographed paperback and digital download. The book also includes a 21 Day Devotional.

Danielle also serves as a start-up business coach for female entrepreneurs. While doing so she has merged her degree in business, her Master’s in teaching, and her relationship with God to give her clients a unique growth experience in their businesses. She shares, “I help my clients eliminate fear and create a strategy for success to win in the marketplace. Female entrepreneurs can connect with me through consultations, coaching sessions, and coaching packages and are invited to share more about their businesses and current struggles. I help them get clarity and provide guidance on what their next steps should be.”

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As a speaker, Danielle makes herself available for conferences, brunches, virtual webinars, and more. She speaks on the topics of purpose, not settling, empowerment, business start-ups, and self-confidence. Even more, she designs inspirational apparel including t-shirts, masks, and mugs that encourage others to take their lives to the next level. All her products and services are available on her website.

Danielle has a genuine love for what she does. “I love helping female entrepreneurs win in the marketplace. Many women have amazing products and services, but they need a coach to help them position themselves for success. When the light goes off in my client’s head, I know that I am making a difference,” she says.

As a child of God, and a believer in His mighty works, Danielle says it has been her relationship with God that has impacted her life the most. “I was introduced to Christ at an early age, and through the years, that relationship has grown stronger. My mom always was praying over me and my brother, and now my husband leads us in prayer daily. My pastors have always guided me into a deeper relationship with God and have taught me how to use my words to manifest my future,” she says.

She finds inspiration in any woman who is living for Christ and making a positive impact on the marketplace. She describes these as women who have multiple businesses and acknowledge that it was God who got them to that place.

Danielle offers some sound advice to others who may follow in her footsteps “Stay the course. Every day might not look like you are winning. Perhaps, you might just be in training. Above everything else, be sure that you are being led by the Holy Spirit. When you have multiple ideas at once, instead of letting them overwhelm you, write them down and focus on one at a time. Give each idea six months of dedication. Once that is rolling, move on to the next idea. Remember to invest in yourself, and not just your business. You can accomplish this by taking courses, reading books, and utilizing the services of a coach. And try to and attend events. By doing these things, your value will increase overall,” she says.

Danielle Bertrand www.girlitsgotime.com mrs.daniellebertrand@gmail.com Instagram: @girlitsgotime Facebook: @girlitsgotime 12

Moving forward, has plans to increase the amount of clients that she coaches on a monthly basis, and do more speaking engagements. She also plans to expand “Girl, It’s Go Time”to become a household name. There are also plans for her to host a two-day, power packed conference. “The most important plan I have is to live my life as an example of what it means to say ‘yes’ to God when He says, “Girl, It’s Go Time.” h

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Presidential Concrete LLC

By Laci Ollison Photos by Joseph Merrill When you hear the term “power couple,” you may immediately begin to think of celebrity couples like Barack and Michelle Obama, Beyonce and Jay-Z, or Will Smith and Jada Pinkett-Smith. But in Huntsville, there’s one couple who is breaking barriers and establishing their own definition of the term power couple.

Jason and Shamika Minisee are the owners of Presidential Concrete; a residential and commercial concrete business located in Huntsville, Alabama.

Their business mainly provides flatwork services which includes driveways, parking lots, curbs, gutters, and slabs.

However, they will soon become a full-service concrete business offering coffee tables, concrete countertops, and more.

The dynamic duo have been in business together since 2005. However, they both have a foundation in entrepreneurship and ties to the concrete business that extend much further than that.

“I learned the skill trade of concrete finishing from my father,” said Jason. “Before I moved to Huntsville, I used to run their concrete business. I only had a little bit of business skills, but I had a lot of experience with this skill trade.”

And that’s where his wife Shamika steps in. The St. Louis native holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Alabama Agricultural and Mechanical University as well as a master’s degree in Business Management with an emphasis on Acquisition and Contract Management from Florida Institute of Technology.

“My wife always wanted to be a business owner and entrepreneur, and that’s what she studied in college.”

Jason said. “When we started our business, we were just married, and our daughter wasn’t even two years old.”

At the time, Shamika was working on her master’s degree and working a job that paid $11.63. Jason was working an Continued on the next page

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unfulfilling job making $10 an hour.

“I came home and told my wife that I quit my job and I wanted to start my own concrete business and she was game.”

Although Shamika supported her husband’s dream of starting a business, she still found herself somewhat nervous. “I like structure. So, him quitting his job on Friday and filing LLC paperwork on Monday scared me,” said Shamika. “But I understood his vision. The company he was working for wasn’t paying him his worth. I agreed because I knew the best way for him to be paid what he was worth was for him to pay himself.”

And now, the couple has built a successful business with clients to include Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen, Progressive Union Missionary Baptist Church, Alabama A&M University, and Oakwood University just to name a few.

“It’s taken a while to reap the fruits of our labor because we didn’t start out with loans,” Shamika said.

“We didn’t build from loans or angel investors; we built this business ourselves.”

The couple said that at the time of starting their business, they would use Shamika’s refund checks from school to reinvest in the business. “We didn’t know about outside funding,” said Shamika. “I remember having our first business account and my husband asked for a line of credit, but we were denied. We didn’t look into it any further and we were so laser focused on building that we didn’t take time to Google or do more research into outside funding.”

But they didn’t let the lack of outside funding stop them from pursuing their dream of building a successful business. “The biggest thing I heard was ‘90% of businesses fail in the first year,’” Jason said. “I was determined to make it through that first year without failing.”

And because of their determination, they can now show their children what it looks like when perseverance and hard work are combined. Their three children actively participate in the family business; visiting contract sites and making suggestions on designs.

“It feels good to have them watching us,” Shamika said. “They take in everything we do and even make suggestions on how to market our business. My husband even took my son out to one of the job sites and it was so cute to see him with a construction hat on.”

Although they value their clients, it is more important for Shamika and Jason to be role models that their children can look up to. “It’s not just about the clients for me,” said Shamika. “It’s about my kids seeing their father never give up.”

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Shamika and Jason have been married since 2003 and reside in Huntsville, Alabama with their three children (pictured from left to right) Payton, Jason, and Jayden.

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The couple also value personal family time as well, making it a habit to not miss important moments in the lives of their children.

“I try to make sure to take them out one at a time or altogether to spend quality time with them,” the mom of three said. “They’re not little for long and I don’t want them to look back and think that our business consumed us.”

Outside of being parents and business owners though, Jason and Shamika are both involved in their community through professional and philanthropic avenues. Shamika is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, and she sits on the board of directors for North Alabama Free Dental Clinic, Sickle Cell Leadership Consortium, and Girls on the Run. The couple are both members of Huntsville Madison County Builders Association.

Jason has been gifted with a knack for management. His gift has led him to gain contracts and lead efforts from Alabama all the way to Michigan. He has acted as the project manager on projects like pole barns, grain bins, and storage facilities. During a small employment stint as a Superintendent he led the efforts on Friendship Commons, a multi-use retail and residential complex and plaza.

With their busy lives as business owners, parents, and local community figures, the two both agree that they would be no where without their faith. “You have to have guidance in The Lord,” said Shamika. “For me it’s scary that Jason is so confident, but I know where his help comes from. You have to constantly pray over your business. The Lord didn’t give us a spirit of fear.”

For others who would like to start their own business, Jason encourages them to not be nervous. “Just have supreme confidence in yourself and in your business,” he said. “No one is going to be as confident as you.”

Shamika also tells aspiring entrepreneurs to take the leap and “just do it.” “Create a roadmap,” she said. “Don’t do it like us. We jumped headfirst not feet first. Don’t take forever but make it make sense. Don’t stop at no. Guestimate how much startup capital you will need. And if the bank says no, search for other avenues.”

Shamika reminds people often that she came from humble beginnings. “If I can do it, they can too. Don’t be like me, be better than me.” h

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www.presidentialconcrete.com (256)226-7152 (256)226-7103

By Laci Ollison Photos by Monique Walker In a world that has become consumed with outer beauty and appearances, 41-yearold Monique Walker has made it her life’s mission to help people feel more beautiful in a meaningful and transformative way.

A native of California, Monique relocated to Memphis in 2009 where she opened her own salon called Mood Styling Studio. Monique soon secured a position as the hair stylist for the Grizz Girls, the professional dance team of the NBA Memphis Grizzlies.

Although Monique built a successful career as a beauty business owner, she maintained a desire to help people in a more fulfilling way. In fact, she struggled with being a hairdresser.

“It was one of those things that came about not something I aspired to become,” said Monique. “I feel there is a difference in the two. I am grateful that God gifted me with the ability to be successful in that industry and that I had an awesome career for twenty years.”

Monique then sought to turn her passion for dance into a career as an Aerobic and Fitness Association of America (AFAA) certified Group Fitness Instructor.

The decision to focus on health and wellness was exactly the desire she was searching to fulfill. Thus, Verve Fitness was born.

Monique said the decision to leave her position as the hairstylist for an NBA dance team wasn’t an easy one.

“I built a relationship with that part of the franchise,” said Monique. “However, there were changes being made and it seemed like a good time to exit when I did. I was blessed to be with them for eleven seasons and was lucky to score an opportunity to host a two-day bootcamp with them in my transition period into fitness.”

Thus her transition into the fitness industry began.

“I don’t recall an exact moment when I knew fitness was my jam,” Monique said. “I think as I became more proficient in body movement, seeing results in people mentally and physically and doing self-study, is how I came to know this is what I was meant to do.”

Monique’s journey in wellness deepened when she began practicing yoga in 2015. She has since earned her 200hour Registered Yoga Teacher certification with the accredited Yoga Alliance.

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But Monique’s journey hasn’t always been easy.

“Certainly, there are always a million challenges and hurdles when launching a business, Monique said.

“The big one for me, however, is dealing with imposter syndrome.”

Monique recalls growing up as a heavy child, and an even heavier young adult. She didn’t begin to lose weight and seek wellness until her thirties after she had her daughter.

“Always feeling like I don’t fit the mold for a health coach, fitness instructor, or yoga teacher is very real for me. I deal with the same body struggles as my clients, so I know how they feel when battling weight loss and physical limitations.”

Monique believes that we are all fed the same imagery and narrative for what it means to be “beautiful” or be “fit.”

“So what happens when you aren’t ‘those’ things?”

Monique said. “Not being those things create barriers of fear and self-doubt which has the bigger ability to keep you from achieving your goals. This is the thing I work at daily.”

Monique said that her biggest motivation is knowing that people are counting on her. “If I don’t show up for a class or a coaching session then I have potentially prohibited someone from getting their dose of physical activity. I know from my personal struggle with weight and body image that accountability and consistency are huge,” said Monique. “If I don’t show up for a coaching session, change class times or cancel classes, I recognize how that can impact someone who is trying to steady the course with this fitness thing.

The average person is just trying to fit it all in and having a coach/instructor who is consistent helps them to do that.”

“Always feeling like I don’t fit the mold for a health coach, fitness instructor, or yoga teacher is very real for me. I deal with the same body struggles as my clients, so I know how they feel when battling weight loss and physical limitations.”

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The most memorable part of Monique’s entrepreneurship has been gaining the knowledge of business.

“It is so humbling when you have to be multifaceted in one business, “Monique said.” As the owner you wear all the hats! It will make you appreciate other businesses because you know what it takes to make all the things happen.”

Monique also said that she is inspired by the resilience and boldness of people who get things done.

“I love that we are so hungry and determined to make this life worth something that we won’t stand for anything less,” Monique said. This is the era where we gain our equality, redefine body image and beauty, love who you want and speak loudly about what you are! It is riveting to watch, listen, learn and be a part of such a bold era of people. Snaps to us all!” h

916-848-9625 https://virtual.gleantap.com/thevervefitness/ IG: @themoniquewalker @thevervefitness

Amanda Writing to Amanda Eaddy McKeithan is second nature. She compares it to the blood that flows through her veins. It gives her life.

The wife and mother of two describes herself as someone who is free-spirited, optimistic, and risk-taking storyteller. Originally from Richmond, VA, she is an educator at heart and has been on a lifelong quest to creatively change the world, in many ways. She is a writer, editor, and author with eight books under her belt.

“Whenever I edit, proofread, or ghostwrite for a client, I am using my creative gifts with the goal of making the world a better place, one word at a time. Words are super important to me. I believe that we can either heal or kill with our words. As a ‘wordsmith’, I strive to encourage, inspire, and put some fire under people to go after the life that they deserve,” she says.

Amanda is also a business owner and the face of The Literary Enthusiast Creative Firm. “Originally, the name was A Creative Solution.

I started it in 2015 and changed it to The Literary Enthusiast Creative Firm in 2019. I published my first book in 2010 and found that I loved helping others creatively share their stories as well. The more I was asked to write for someone, the more I realized that I had a business in me,” she shares.

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As a author and businesswoman, Amanda has faced her share of challenges. With most writes, there is a constant battle of “writers block”. And for Amanda, it hits her from time to time.

“I struggle with procrastination. Though I have great vision, sometimes, I have poor follow through, mainly because I am a low-key perfectionist who desires to make everyone happy.

That approach has proven to be sort of a downfall. “I struggle with rejection, and as a result it keeps me from taking even bigger risks and reaching for higher opportunities for my writing career and business,” she says.

Though Amanda’s journey has faced its share of pitfalls and stumbling blocks, she remains optimistic and always seeks to encourage others. Her advice to aspiring writers and authors and writers is authentic and very clear. “Go for it. You must stop over thinking and write that book because your story matters. Someone is waiting on your truth and your transparency will save their life. Your story will offer them hope and encouragement; two vitally important tools that will show them to press through the hard stuff. Life will continuously present tough and rigorous challenges. Through my story and determination to succeed, I hope to show someone that no matter how traumatic things may get, you must not quit.

Lastly, set an intention and stick with it. You must rid yourself of distractions and not be affected by the opinions of others. The vision is yours, and they might not be able to see it, and that is okay. Do it anyway,” she says.

The Literary Enthusiast Creative Firm offers editing, proofreading, ghostwriting, and creative assisting services for authors and busy professionals. If it needs to be written, it can be done by them. Whether it be manuscripts to creating slogans, to contracts, Amanda can do it all. She also provides tutoring services (on site and virtual) for elementary and secondary students. She has also incorporated another component into her business, StoryTime with Amanda that is geared for young authors who need reviews and exposure for their new titles.

Moving forward, Amanda plans for The Literary Enthusiast Creative Firm to launch a creative arts preschool. She will also launch Just Amanda Productions and StoryTelling in RVA Films.

At the end of the day, Amanda wants to create “dope stories” that change the way people do life. She says, “In the end, nothing I desire to hear more than for God to say, ““I knew you were the baddest storyteller in the land. You survived all that earthly mess, with a pen in your hand”. h

Amanda has a genuine love for writing and helping others. With writing, she shares how she enjoys seeing someone’s story or idea come to life through her storytelling abilities. “Storytelling is my superpower. Ghostwriting is everything. It is a lot of work, but when I can get to the end of a project, and my clients are pleased, it’s so fulfilling. Every time I get positive feedback, it encourages me to keep walking towards my purpose. There is nothing greater than knowing why you were created.”

Amanda graciously shares who gave her the opportunity to walk in her purpose. “God, of course. I am thankful for this gift that I have been given. God has been the best brainstormer and vision giver. Every life experience I’ve had, I can write about. They’ve impacted me personally and professionally. Each experience has made me a better storyteller and provoked the release of my creativity,” she says.

Amanda Eaddy McKeithan 804-585-4536 www.amandaeaddy.com

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Stay Networking And Grinding Zestfully

By Terry L. Watson - Photos by JLG Photography

LaRont’e Watson Ellerbee, aka Ja’Natis, is an achiever, a believer, an entrepreneur. His colorful personality compliments a style that exudes confidence, sophistication, and loyalty.

A native of Greensboro, NC LaRont’e is equipped with an equal share of street smarts and common sense. While he has overcome various challenges throughout his life, he has not allowed any of them to stand in the way of him living out his life’s purpose; to be better today than he was yesterday.

LaRont’e is a father, son, brother, and friend to many. He also engaged to his best friend and the love of his life. While there are many ways to describe LaRont’e, the most accurate would be to say that he is an ambitious overcomer. “No matter what people say or do, as long as I don’t give up on myself, I will always win. I’ve had a rough life. I grew up in the Claremont Homes community located on the north side of Greensboro NC. I later moved to Randolph Avenue, and then to Julian Street, near Martin Luther King Jr. Drive. Times were tough and due to the roller coaster of life, I built up internal frustrations from many disappointments. I had a lot of rage and anger deep down on the inside of me. I guess you could say that I suffered. I lost the woman who raised me, and then I lost my birth mother. Things didn’t appear to be getting any better for me. Yet, I still pushed on, and from there, I was able to make a life decision that worked out for me in the end, and things eventually turned out OK,” he says.

Today, LaRont’e is the owner and face of SNAGZ Apparel, a fashion apparel line that encourages others to strive for greatness, and to be consciously aware of their surroundings. SNAGZ is an acronym for (Stay Networking And Grinding Zestfully).

LaRont’e began his fashion line in 2013. Now his vast assortment of items include short sleeve shirts, long sleeve shirts, snapbacks, beanies, sweatshirts, hoodies, onesies, and Covid 19 appropriate face masks.

“I decided to start a clothing line because growing up I didn’t have many clothes, or the nicest clothes, or even name brand clothes. When I was younger, I told myself that I wanted to get rich and start my own clothing line and give other people more options of how to express themselves. My line is for those who couldn’t wear a certain thing even though they like it. They can wear what I have, and don’t have to worry about being judged,” he says. “I love that it’s different, it can stand out and it’s not targeting any one type of customer in particular. It’s designed for anybody, from infants to the elderly. SNAGZ is a ‘Brand For Any Lifestyle’” he says.

www.snagzapparelbrand.bigcartel.com 336-549-4553 26

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In the future, LaRont’e plans to continue to design new items to add to his growing inventory. He also hopes to partner with others for the sole purpose of allowing the SNAGZ Apparel line help to make his community more colorful and expressive. Contact him to learn more about what is on the horizon for SNAGZ Apparel. h

Raleigh/Durham - September/October 2020

Morry Lee Johnson

MAGAZINE

Cutest Baby

The son of Torri Johnson & James Oldham

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

Raleigh/Durham - September/October 2020

HuamiMagazine.com

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