Nov./Dec. 2024
Vol. 2 Issue 1
Daisha Maria Breona
New Dai Art Studio
God Doesn’t Expect For You To Do it All
A Letter From The Editor
There Are No If, Ands, Or Buts About It!
A Letter from the Editor
Regardless of what anyone else says, I am a natural introvert. Amazingly, I publish a magazine and talk to people, many of who are strangers, and yet I find comfort in not saying anything. However, God often creates scenarios that push me out of my comfort zone. Whether He calls for me to speak to a group of young minds or even a large audience, with obedience, I must meet the assignment. I appreciate each opportunity as they have opened my mind to accepting the assistance for my destiny.
What if tomorrow didn’t arrive? All of your plans, hopes and dreams wouldn’t have a street to park on. What if everything that you decided to put off until tomorrow never happened? There would be no reason to save for a rainy day, and you could spare someone the trouble of making promises. What if your last opportunity seemingly expired today? What would you do?
Ask anyone who really knows me, and they will tell you that I am someone who tries to do a lot on my own. I don’t know why; maybe it has something to do with the way my brain is programmed. Yet, with managing the assignment of the company I run, God has frequently reminded me that He doesn’t expect me to do it all by myself.
I’ve been told that I often seem like I do too much. Honestly, I feel like I am not doing enough and I’m a firm believer in knowing that God wouldn’t put anything on me that I couldn’t handle. I sometimes wonder how life would be if I chose to sit idle and accept what it presented to me. I have found that to be very boring. In my opinion, opportunity is a blessing that isn’t afforded to everyone. A challenge 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 something new about myself. Relinquish your pride and in return acquire life.
While the capability of what I can do is extensive, the limits of where I am able to take the messages and voices of my community are far out of my reach. A community is only as strong as the input and participation that each member offers. The beauty in the message that God intends to bring forth is a unifying one, and I only hope that I do my part to persuade and inspire others in their journey.
The best advice ever given to me happened when someone told me to make my tomorrow happen today. In doing so I have pressed my way through doors with a key that only hope provided. I have also learned the difference between what God blesses me with and what life can burden me with as well. I compare it to knowing when to be confident and when to be quiet, because someone may get it confused with being arrogant.
God has planted gifts in all of us. My gifts are mine, and whenever I am able to cross paths with others who share a similar passion, I receive that as God expects more to be done. If you see me working alone, don’t mnd me, just know that I am actually trying to find the next opportunity to connect my gifts with others.
Make you tomorrow happen today, but most importantly make it count. Life is but a whisper and we must put ourselves in a position to hear what it is telling us.
Terry L. Watson
Terry L. Watson Editor/Founder
Inquiries
Photo by Shaw Photography Group
Kansas City, MO
She has goals to build up her community. Learn more about who she is and what she is doing. Huntsville, AL
He is Huami Magazine’s Cutest Baby. Introducing one beautiful baby. He name is Silas Cade Gibson.
Carmeletta Williams
Wynn
M. Shortey
Kansas City Public Safety Task Force Takes Bold Action to Enhance Community Safety
Information and Photos provided by www.kcmo.gov
Since June 2024, the Kansas City Public Safety Task Force has made impressive headway in enhancing safety and addressing nuisance issues across the city. Through dynamic collaboration with city departments and state and federal partners, the Task Force is actively reducing crime, ensuring compliance, and uplifting the quality of life for Kansas City residents.
Among the Task Force’s recent accomplishments is the elimination of unauthorized gatherings like disruptive street events, which has restored safe traffic flow and reliable emergency access. Focused efforts at high-incident properties have significantly reduced police calls, creating a safer environment for surrounding neighborhoods. The Task Force has also shut down nuisance businesses, putting an end to ongoing disturbances and removing hubs of criminal activity.
Through a series of inspections, the Task Force issued citations to tow companies and parking facilities, removing obstructive vehicles and clearing public spaces for residents. A recent compliance sweep, conducted with state and federal agencies, led to the closure of multiple businesses operating without required licenses, underscoring the Task Force’s commitment to maintaining a safe and vibrant community.
“The Kansas City Public Safety Task Force has shown just how much we can accomplish when we join forces across city, state, and federal levels. Thanks to their decisive actions, Kansas City is a safer place for everyone,” said City Manager Brian Platt
Key Achievements of the Kansas City Public Safety Task Force:
Reducing Illegal Street Events: The Task Force halted recurring unauthorized events that had posed significant traffic and safety risks.
Improving Compliance at High-Incident Properties: Targeted interventions have brought these properties into compliance, resulting in a substantial drop in police service calls.
Shutting Down Nuisance Businesses: In coordination with KCPD, the Task Force closed unlicensed establishments, reducing disturbances and violence.
Securing Abandoned Properties: By clearing and securing vacant properties, the Task Force has prevented unauthorized occupancy and safely relocated individuals to more secure locations.
Enforcing Noise Ordinances: Establishments previously in violation now comply with noise regulations thanks to Task Force intervention.
Increasing Oversight of Tow Companies and Parking Facilities: Inspections led to 28 citations, the towing of 7 vehicles, and the relocation of 20 obstructive vehicles, ensuring clear public rights-of-way.
Conducting Comprehensive Compliance Sweeps: These coordinated sweeps with city, state, and federal agencies have resulted in the shutdown of multiple businesses operating illegally.
Honoring Task Force Leadership: Joe Williamson, Task Force Director, was awarded the Outstanding Public Safety Service Award by the South Kansas City Alliance in recognition of his exemplary leadership and dedication to public safety. h
Culture, Bravery, Beauty and History The Black Archives of Mid-America in Kansas City
Information and Photos provided by Chelsea
L. Whittington
The Black Archives of Mid-America in Kansas City, Inc.is lead by Dr. Carmeletta M. Williams, who serves as the organizations Cheif Executive Officer.
The mission of the Black Archives of Mid-America in Kansas City, Inc. is to collect, preserve and make available to the public materials documenting the social, economic, political and cultural histories of persons of African American descent in the central United States, with particular emphasis in the Kansas City, Missouri region. Black Archives of Mid-America is an educational resource and provides access to its collections for research, exhibition and publication to honor our community heritage and to catalyze public awareness.
History of the Black Archives of Mid-America in Kansas City
The Black Archives of Mid America, Inc. was founded May 8th, 1974 by Horace M. Peterson III and initially located at 1821 Paseo in the old Paseo Y.M.C.A. building. In 1976, the Black Archives moved to 2033 Vine, old Firehouse No.11. The firehouse, located in Kansas City’s Historic 18th and Vine District, itself is representative of African American history in this region as it was home to the first Black fire company in Kansas City. It was built in 1931 as part of the Work’s Progress Administration period under President Franklin D. Roosevelt.
The Black Archives is a non-profit organization that serves the community by offering itself as an educational resource as well as a repository of every facet in African American culture; music, art , theater, education, the military, medicine, sports, religion and community affairs. The Black Archives was expressly created to collect and preserve the history of African Americans in the Midwest. Beyond our original emphasis of research and critical examination, the Archives’ traveling exhibits personify the roles of African Americans and their plight to dispel negative images.
Dr. Carmeletta M. Williams
CEO of The Black Archives of Mid-America in Kansas City
Our interpretive and educational programs, research services and special projects have received overwhelming community support.
It was Peterson’s dream to see an invigorated 18th and Vine District that showcased the contributions of African Americans. His exemplary efforts became reality with the anticipated move of the Black Archives to a larger facility located in the heart of this Historic District. Other projects envisioned by Peterson include the Kansas City Jazz Museum, the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum and the Gem Theater; all landmarks in the 18th and Vine District.
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Daisha Maria Breona
New Dai Art Studio
By Terry L. Watson
Photos Provided by Daisha Kimbrough
Originally from Jersey City, New Jersey, Daisha Kimbrough has always had an interest in art. Initially, as a young girl, she desired to be a fashion designer. However, it wasn’t until she took her first art course in high school that her art teacher encouraged Daisha to try something new, which would be painting. She says her first piece was ballet slippers and admits she didn’t take it seriously and thought it was a cool project. It wasn’t until she went through a mental health breakdown that she began to embrace her gift.
A few years ago, Daisha experienced a mental health breakdown and learned that she was bipolar. During that time, she couldn’t work, and as a result, she almost got evicted from her residence. She states the depression was overwhelming. Much of the breakdown was triggered by childhood trauma that hadn’t been addressed. Daisha says that once she found the healing, she was able to find peace.
During her mental health crisis, Daisha shared that God gave her clarity to what is important. “My family helped me with their support and patience. My therapist helped me understand my trauma and triggers so I can control and manage my bipolar. Even more, painting was something I was able to zone in on and get out creative thoughts and emotions,” she says.
Seeing how my family has developed from where they were in Jersey City has shown me that anything is possible. Their belief in me has helped me to believe in myself.
Today, Daisha owns New Dai Art Studio, and her official artist’s name is Daisha MB, which stands for Daisha Maria Breona. She says, “I really, really love it when people understand the message that I try to portray. I appreciate color, creativity, and mental stimulation and love to watch people make something out of nothing. I also love that something visual can evoke a specific emotion and make you think introspectively.”
Daisha has two siblings, one brother, and one sister, and she moved around a lot as a kid, mainly because her family was in the Air Force. She found her way to Kansas City after her parents retired there. Academically, Daisha has an Associate Degree in Business Administration, a Bachelor’s Degree in Communication, and a Master’s Degree in Executive Leadership.
Family means everything to Daisha. She states their support has helped her understand her confidence, as well as helped to steer her in the right direction. “Seeing how my family has developed from where they were in Jersey City has shown me that anything is possible. Their belief in me has helped me to believe in myself,” she says.
Through every up and down that Daisha has experienced in life, there has been a lesson involved. She also admits that besides having more confidence in herself, there isn’t much she would change about the way things have happened. “I feel like if I had more confidence in my abilities, I would be able to unlock and unleash more vulnerable emotions and messages. I believe I could help and heal somebody else. Yet, I rest knowing that it is a work in progress.”
Young, talented, and ambitious, Daisha is excited about what her future holds. Just turning 30, she is focused on building self-confidence and making strides towards owning her abilities. “I am currently working as a Donor Relationships Manager with the Metropolitan Organization to counter sexual assault (MOCSA). I am also looking forward to expanding my career in this nonprofit space. I’m excited to do more art shows and hopefully get more exposure. More than anything, I am focused on pushing myself to my emotional limits to get a message out about healing,” she says. h
SharitaShortey SugaRee Cookies
By Terry L. Watson
Huami Magazine is very excited to reconnect with Kansas City’s very own, Sharita Shortey, owner of Sugaree Cookies.
Sugaree Cookies is an independently self-taught Cookie business that focuses more on the artistic side of the craft than the baking side. Sharita shares how she has worked day in and day out to make all her flavors taste amazing. However, she is quick to let people be aware that she is not a baker; instead, she resides in being an artist who has chosen cookies to be her canvas of choice to express herself.
With her cookies being custom, Sharita says sometimes they are so customized that the creations mean more to the recipient than being just cookies. “I have a lot of clients that have come to me months later stating they just couldn’t eat them, and they have kept them in the freezer as a keepsake. That gave me the idea to try something new, and so I have started preserving some cookies and making cookie magnets that can be saved forever. I call them the forever gift,” she says. Sharita has also begun making Cookie Cakes, both single-layer and tiered versions.
Photos Provided by Jill of All Trades KC
Sharita has been married for years to her loving husband, Ayran. Together they have five children ranging in age from 8 to 22. After quitting her nursing job of 15 years in 2020, Sharita says she has found peace in doing something that she loves. “I have always had a passion for art, and that has allowed me to wake up and enjoy what I do every day. It is convenient and allows me to create my own schedule and be available to enjoy the growing up of my children,” she says. Sharita also appreciates how her creations put smiles on people’s faces and help them to escape from whatever they are going through at that moment. “The joy radiates, and it is SOULfull. I’m a lover at heart, and I have enjoyed gaining lasting relationships with so many different wonderful souls.”
As an entrepreneur, Sharita aspires to scale and grow her business, but doing so has been challenging. She says, “The goal is to always scale my company. Nothing grows by staying the same, and I have new thoughts and changes to bring to the table. I’m working on a few new items, such as cookie butter, cookie soap, and cookie candles. I think these will allow people to enjoy the smell of their favorite flavor cookies fresh from the oven.” As she is family-oriented, Sharita’s focus is to keep the business within her family and allow her children to reap the benefits that it offers.
Another challenge she faces is the stress of juggling business and personal life. She says that keeping her professionalism through personal seasons of life has been hard to do. “Having a small independent business requires a certain level of commitment. There is no clock-out time. There’s always a message to be answered, a call to be returned, an order to write down. Taking care of yourself is key to a successful business, and sometimes I forget how important that is.” Sharita has managed this by continuing to face diversity headon, putting fear to the side and navigating through it to the best of her ability. This also involves learning new ways to grow her mental strength and allowing room for trial and error. Ultimately, she says it is her goal to create a stable and organized business and home environment.
As the new year approaches, Sharita has some exciting goals in place. One is to mentor and conduct one-on-one classes with those who are on the same path as she is but may not know the right steps to take with their business. “Having the proper knowledge and the right support can change a person’s life, and if I can help in any positive way, sign me up,” she says.
“I used to be a perfectionist,” Sharita states. “However, I have realized that it’s easier to accept that things are not always going to go as planned all the time. When you start giving yourself the same grace you give others, it allows you to continue to work through imperfections. It will also put you in incredible positions for growth, and soon, everything will become easier, softer, and put together.”
Looking ahead, Sharita shares her plans to make a name for herself. “One of my goals, with God’s will, is to open a cookie and sip studio. This will be a place where people can open up to be themselves, put their problems to the side, and create their own cookie masterpieces while getting to know others with no judgment. This will be a safe space to be yourself.” she says. For three years in a row, Sharita has also been invited to the Christmas Cookie Challenge on The Food Network but has always let her anxiety and belief of not being ready discourage her. Upon producing this feature, Sharita has recently mourned the loss of her father. With that experience, Sharita is determined to do everything within her to make her name seen in honor of him. “I am no longer doing this on my own; I have an angel to help me get through the hard parts of not believing that I’m good enough,” she says.
In closing, Sharita sends a few words of encouragement to whoever needs it. “Never doubt yourself. Always put faith first, and you will be guided to the right paths in your destiny.
Boys & Girls Club of North Alabama
By Terry L. Watson
Patrick Wynn is the Chief Executive Officer of The Boys & Girls Club of North Alabama. The areas the organization serves are Huntsville, Scottsboro, Decatur, Athens, Ardmore, and Pineville, AL.
The mission of the organization is to inspire and enable all young people, especially those who need them the most, to realize their full potential as productive, responsible, and caring citizens. The organization’s code says, “I believe in God and the right to worship according to my own faith and religion. I believe in America and the American way of life, the Constitution and the Bill of Rights. I believe in fair play, honesty, and sportsmanship. I believe in my Boys & Girls Club, which stands for these things.”
Born and raised in Huntsville, AL, Patrick attended and graduated from Southern Mississippi University. After college, he returned to Huntsville to provide leadership to the community that helped to raise him. “I felt like I had a real tangible role model in my mom, Janice Fletcher. She was a single parent, worked, went to college, and raised three kids. I was able to avoid many of the pitfalls that many of my friends endured due to how she raised and provided for us,” he says.
Photos Provided by Patrick Wynn
Coming back to Huntsville is something that Patrick believes he was destined to do. For 26 years, Patrick has worked with the Boys & Girls Club. For the last 16 years, he has served as the organization’s CEO. In his role, Patrick is charged with setting a vision and leading the organization. He adds, “I am required to work with our Board of Directors to ensure that fiscal responsibility and policies and procedures are intact. Ensuring safety and the quality of our program is one of my primary objectives. One thing that I learned is that many people in our community are familiar with the name of the Boys and Girls Club, but many are not aware of the depth of our organization. It is my goal to educate others about our depth and how vital we are to the communities that we serve.”
By design, Boys & Girls Clubs work in and with communities where there is a void of males, fathers, mentors, and role models. These could be rural communities, low-income communities, Indian bases, and military bases. The organization provided essential care for the young people there. The care in mind may consist of education and career development, workforce readiness, ACT prep, public speaking, arts and crafts, drivers’ education, and more.
Patrick says that he is a firm believer that there is no coincidence. “I believe that God aligned the stars for me to work at the Boys and Girls Club,” he says. Before coming there, Patrick worked as a Therapeutic Group Counselor, and a high school teammate informed him about opportunities at the Boys & Girls Club. “I was ready to get out of my role as a Therapeutic Group Counselor because I felt that wasn’t serving my community.”
What Patrick says he loves most about what he does is the opportunity to work with young people. “I see myself in each kid that walks through our doors. Again, I was a product of single parenting, and I also grew up in public housing, and even more, my mother was a teenage parent. I believe that I am successful in my role as CEO because I can relate to those that we serve. I have walked the same path they have. With the help and guidance of God, along with a very special mom, I was able to navigate through tumultuous situations that exist in the areas where I grew up. I was able to excel despite being in disadvantaged circumstances. Amazingly, I never felt disadvantaged because of the guidance that I had. I believe that God put me in those situations so that I can help the people that I do today.”
“I believe that I am successful in my role as CEO because I can relate to those that we serve. I have walked the same path they have. With the help and guidance of God, along with a very special mom, I was able to navigate through tumultuous situations that exist in the areas where I grew up.”
As the CEO of the Boys & Girls Club, Patrick shares that he has faced a few challenges and has found ways to overcome them. “Being an African American and wearing a CEO title in the non-profit space, I have always strived to help people understand that this is a business,” he says. “When I first began, my goal was to understand the business aspect of the organization, and I surrounded myself with people who ran companies. There have been people who have taught me some things and may not realize they have. I am inquisitive by nature, and I ask questions because I want to learn. Over 26 years, I have won many awards, but if you come to my office, you will not see any of them. They are in boxes because I feel that I haven’t arrived and that I am still hungry. I believe that when you stop learning, you stop living. That is why I continue to ask questions and pick others’ brains; I want to get better. I believe that success breeds success. If you are not watching what other successful people are doing, then you don’t want to be successful. I want to pick up successful habits and be the best version of myself.”
Patrick credits many individuals with inspiring and impacting his life. Obviously, his mom has, and Patrick also credits his wife, Kecia, with whom he has shared 20 years of marriage. Together, they have three boys. “My wife is always looking for greatness.” Patrick also finds inspiration in his community. “There are things that were built to stop us from being successful, but still, we rose like a rose from concrete. There are so many people who come from our communities who didn’t begin with an advantage, but we still have found a way to succeed. That is what I love about the communities we serve. It is not about the position you hold or what you own; it is about where you come from. It is also about how many lives you’ve touched,” he says.
It is obvious that Patrick has a genuine desire to help and serve others and being in the role of CEO for the Boys & Girls Club of North Alabama appears to be the perfect fit for him. When asked if there is anything that he would change about the way things have happened along his journey in life, Patrick’s response is very concise. “Your journey makes you who you are. If some of the things that happened to me hadn’t happened, I would be where I am today. I also wish I would have read more when I was a child,” he says.
Looking ahead, Patrick is eager to continue to lead the Boys & Girls Club into greater places. In 2021, he led the organization with its Comprehensive Capital Campaign. A first for them, they were able to raise $13 million dollars, and those funds are being used to build new facilities throughout North Alabama.
Patrick concludes by offering a bit of sound wisdom. “I want to be an airplane. People of great height don’t go backward. Airplanes don’t fly backward. I want to go to great heights like an airplane. We all will make mistakes, but when I make them, I write them down to ensure that it will not happen to me again,” he says.
PatUpchurch Pat t y’s Cheescakes
By Terry L. Watson
For St. Louis, MO, native, Pat Upchurch, faith, family, friends and fulfillment are the pillars of her life. She is the CEO and founder of Patty’s Cheesecakes, also based in St. Louis, MO. Her company offers Artisan Cheesecake Desserts.
Launched in 2015, the inspiration for Patty’s Cheesecakes is connected to Pat’s grandmother’s recipe and the joy she brought to every family gathering with her delicious creations. Beginning at an early age, Pat learned to cook from her chef Dad, as her love and passion started at his side on a small step ladder. “My grandmother was a great cook and always made the best cheesecakes, as well as the best everything. When she decided to not make them anymore, she gave me her recipe and mixer,” Pat says. Soon Pat started making cheesecakes for family and friends in her kitchen just like her grandmother. As the demand grew and with the urging and prompting of loved ones, Pat ventured out to begin a food business. She began by working in a commercial kitchen at St. Louis University. Next, she worked at Creative Cookery and the Bakers Hub before opening her current location at the City Foundry Food Hall in St. Louis. Hence, the fun and great adventure in the cheesecake world began.
Photos Provided by Pat Upchurch
Pat says there is no idea or creation that is too far-fetched. There is the Cranberry White Chocolate, Apple Pie, Banana Pudding, Strawberry, Chocolate Chip, Gingersnap Cookie, the Original, Pecan Pie, Sweet Potato Pie, and more. Their most popular item is the Petite Cheesecakes. Pat says, “I found a mini cheesecake pan that could make a dozen cakes at a time. I started making little cheesecakes and that took on a life of itself.” Additionally, two of their fan favorites and best sellers are the Banana Pudding and Gooey Butter Cake Cheesecakes.
Pat has thirty-seven (37) years of professional experience, which includes 19 years of experience specializing in nonprofit, client services, training, program development, leadership development, crisis intervention, case management, crisis counseling, parent and family training, volunteer services, resource coordination, and administration. Additionally, she has over 20 years of experience in the hospitality and food industry. She is married to her loving husband, Ahdon, and they have a wonderful son, David. When she has a little free time, she enjoys helping others practically, especially around a great meal.
Just like many small business owners , Pat has endured a few challenges along her journey. One she says has been scaling from one stage to another. This process, she says, involved adjusting and changing their processes and workflow. “We learned and are still learning how to adapt to growth,” she says. Staffing has also been challenging for Pat. Again, she has been able to adjust and change her processes and workflow in response to the highs and lows of staffing.
When asked what she loves most about what she does, Pat says it’s being a part of people’s everyday life and special celebrations. While she credits her dad and grandmother for having the biggest impact on her life, she appreciates the support and love from mentors who she says has been impactful in work and business.
For those who may follow in her footsteps, Pat offers the following advice. “Walk in/know your purpose; know your (why). Be authentically yourself. Also, have fun and work hard. Most importantly, take care of yourself holistically. Also, get or build a support system and network. And finally, when challenges arise, return to your (why).”
Looking ahead, Pat shares that she plans to expand her retail business and wholesale partnerships. “Our business has three areas: retail, wholesale and catering/events/weddings. We are in 33 grocery stores in the St. Louis metro area and in several restaurants and hospital cafes,” she says.
If you are in the St. Louis area, stop by Patty’s Cheesecakes and enjoy Pat’s delicious creations. You will not be disappointed.
Huami Magazine Community Awards 2025
Charlotte Marriott Center City - Charlotte, NC
We are coming to the Queen City of Charlotte, NC.
Please mark your calendars for June 7th, 2025, as the Huami Magazine Community Awards will take place at the Charlotte Marriott City Center. Following up on our first gala of 2023, we are excited for the opportunity to present Black Excellence from various parts of the Huami Magazine network, which covers more than 23 states around the country.
Community Leaders, Business Leaders, and NonProfit Organizations will be honored and recognized for the great work they have done and continue to do in their respective communities. There will also be some great speakers, good food, and entertainment. This a formal, black tie event, and one that you don’t want to miss.
The evening will begin with a Red Carpet Reception at 5:30 pm. The Gala Reception will start at 6:30pm
For more information, please call 336-340-7844. Seating is limited and group packages are available. Tickets are on sale and can be purchased at the link listed below. Sponsorship opportunities are also available. For sponsorship information, please send a detailed email to mykelmediaco@gmail.com h
www.read-huamimagazine.com/awards-gala-2025
Silas Cade Gibson
The son of Corey Gibson and S’Mia Davidson
Learn More About My Experience of Being A Caregiver For My Mother
By Terry L. Watson
CHAPTER SEVEN: The Measurement of Love for Mom
One of the hardest things I have experienced while caring for my mother was accepting the fact that she would forever be totally dependent on the care and assistance of others. For all of my life, I had been used to seeing her go, go, and go, and just like that, things changed. One Sunday morning, I stopped by my mother’s home to eat dinner, and the following day, I got a call that she had suffered a stroke. Things changed so fast.
Over the past eight years, I have slowly and stubbornly adapted to meeting my mother exactly where she is. Any success in my ability to adapt to these changes has been connected to my ability to find hope in her—I mean, our situation. Any opportunity that I have to make her smile, I have taken advantage of it, whether it be by saying something silly or reminding her of the things that I know she loves to hear. Seeing and feeling the joy in her smile has been therapeutic for me and her, I do believe.
For anyone who has experienced having a loved one suffer a stroke, one that was debilitating and disabling, you may understand the bucket of emotions that accompany it. My first response was to make life as normal as possible for my mother. I soon realized that would be mission impossible. My advice to others who may find themselves in this place is always to strive to make the most of each situation every day. On some days, my mother could pronounce her words more clearly than the day before. On other days, she seemed so drained from the effects of her brain injury that all she could do was rest. Regardless of what was presented, I had to find a way to prepare my mind to handle it. And I did.
When you truly love someone, the amount is impossible to quantify. It’s just love. My love for my mother is absolutely unconditional, and I am committed to being there for her needs for the rest of our days together. I have also found resolve in learning that she is really aware of my commitment to serving her, and she lets me know in her own way of appreciation.
I have been told that it’s not often that you find a man who cares for his mother as I do as a Caregiver. To be honest, I am surprised to learn that more are not showing up. I have a ton of memories, some great ones, of my mother before she suffered her stroke. However, the memories I have created while caring for her after the stroke are so much more meaningful. God has blessed me to be able to do something for someone that I feel like I owe the world to, and yet, they have never asked for anything in return. That is love. h
I decided to share my experience as a full-time caregiver for my mother to consult, console, and inform other families who may be going through a similar situation. As a son, caring for my mother never feels like work; if so, it is a labor of love. Please continue to follow this message, Becoming A Caregiver, in Huami Magazine. I hope that sharing my experience will help others. From one caregiver to the next, God Bless You!
Shonte Baltes She Has Goals For Her Community
By Terry L. Watson
Photos Provided by Shonte Baltes
Shonte Baltes is the owner of Shonni B. Realty, which is powered by One Key Realty Brokerage.
Shonte describes herself as a full-fledged entrepreneur. Born in Kissimmee, Florida, Shonte has called Atmore, AL, home for the greater part of her life. “I have the luxury of having country roots with a global mindset,” she says. She completed her undergraduate degree from the University of Alabama, and is currently finishing her Doctoral degree in Leadership at Regent University.
Originally an aspiring publicist turned realtor, Shonte has chartered entrepreneurial waters for the last decade. She adds, “I am a believer in Christ and try to implement those principles in the way I do business. I love meeting new people and enjoy helping individuals reach their greatest potential.”
Shonte originally began as a makeup artist and later transitioned into real estate as an investor circa 2011. She says, “The vision to work in real estate came through prayer, coupled with an internal desire to be in real estate. I have had the privilege to be owner and operator of BonMercy Beauty Bar. In 2023, I became a full-time real estate investor. I was able to begin my first endeavors in real estate by partnering with my mom and we started with one contractor. We found our first foreclosure property moved strategically with one property at a time.”
“I am a believer in Christ and try to implement those principles in the way I do business. I love meeting new people and enjoy helping individuals reach their greatest potential.”
More than anything, Shonte loves what she does. She says, “I have always desired to change the lives of people and found that providing integral experiences in home buying fulfilled that desire.” She also says that she finds inspiration in offering change to others. “I am inspired when evolution takes place. I am inspired when cities grow and when people grow. Whether it be through generational wealth or realizing the possibilities of life. I am inspired by seeing people succeed. No matter what that looks like. To see others excel inspires me to keep going. That takes the pain out of the process of entrepreneurship.”
Her life she says has been mostly impacted by God. “I know that sounds churchy and mystical, however God does not let me settle. For every new achievement, it becomes my new floor. God gives me a vision beyond what I comprehend at times. His standard for people is something I strive to produce daily.”
Moving forward, Shonte has her eyes set on doing greater things. “The goal is to build an enterprise. I ultimately want to build affordable housing for seniors and build communities. My long-term goal is to become a builder.” h
