Huami Magazine St. Louis Jan./Feb. 2024 by Terry Watson

S T. LO U I S

Jan./Feb. 2024 Volume 2 Issue 6

Doc Dash Inventor St. Louis - Jan./Feb. 2024

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Prayer Is More Effective A Letter From The Editor

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

Happy New Year! It is truly a blessing to continue to do what God has called me to do. I am so appreciative of what Huami Magazine Lettertofrom the Editorin 2023, and I am even more excited about wasA able accomplish the things that will happen ahead. I thank each supporter, and I promise that we will allow God to be the vision and direction of this What if tomorrow didn’t arrive? All of your plans, hopes amazing publication. and dreams wouldn’t have a street to park on. What if everything that Media you decided to put until tomorrow never This year, Mykel Company LLC,offthe parent company that happened? There would be no reason to save for a rainy publishes Huami Magazine, is back at it. We are excited to relaunch day,Sports and you could spare someone the trouble making Spunq Magazine. We are also amping up theofproduction promises. What if your last opportunity seemingly expired of Huami For Kids Magazine, and with each publication that is today? What would you do? produced by our company, a newly designed line of merchandise and apparel will accompany it. I’ve been told that I often seem like I do too much. Honestly, I feel likewhere I am not enough andover I’m athe firm When I think about wedoing have come from previous believer in knowing that God wouldn’t put anything on me we seventeen years, my heart wells with emotion because I know that Ihave couldn’t handle. I sometimes wonder howwho life believe would in couldn’t made it without the prayers of those be if I chose to sit idle and accept what it presented to me. I what God purposed. I thank you for your prayers and for believing. have found that to be very boring. In my opinion, opportunity is amessage blessing is that afforded everyone. what A challenge My forisn’t those who aretoquestioning is happening to me is an adventure. What is the worst that canHis happen? in your life. God is working. Oftentimes, we can’t see hand, but If there. I do nothing, fail, lowest and if I of trylowest I don’t,moments, but instead He is Even atI our andlearn we have something about myself. Relinquish your pride and in exhausted the new last granule of strength to move, God is working. acquirethat life.not everyone desires to see you fail. In the We return must believe midst of onlookers, there are some who find comfort and strength The the bestunderdog advice ever given to meare happened someone in seeing win. Trophies made forwhen underdogs told me to make my tomorrow happen today. In doing as well. What’s more beautiful to know is that true believersso are I have pressed my way through doors with ainkey strengthened by witnessing God work miracles thethat livesonly of others, too!hope provided. I have also learned the difference between what God blesses me with and what life can burden me with asdisciples well. I compare it to knowing when to always be confident and to As and believers in God, we must seek ways to be quiet, because be an answered prayer for someonewhen who needs it. Long before God someone may get itI was confused assigned me a purpose, helped being out ofwith my pits byarrogant. the selfless prayers of other believers. Believers who youortomorrow weren’tMake amused entertained by my shortcomings or but faults but were happen today, most excited about seeing meitblossom importantly make count. into my fullest So they Life ispotential. but a whisper andprayed for me. we must put ourselves in a position to hear what it is Prayer is the telling us. most effective thing we can do.

Terry Watson TerryL.L. Watson Editor/Founder

HuamiMagazine.com

November/December 2014

www.huamimagazine.com Terry L. Watson

Publisher

www.huamimagazine.com Dorjae McClammey Editor In Chief Writer Terry L. Watson Writer Terry L. Watson Alana Allen - Deputy Editor Monica Montgomery Writer Sherry Rogers Writer Writers

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mykelmedia@yahoo.com (336) 340-7844 HUAMI MAGAZINE is published quarterly by the Mykel Media Company. Any reproduction of any portion of this publication is prohibited without written permission from the publisher prior to doing so. Mykel Media doesn’t accept responsibility Greensboro, NC for statements made by individuals featured or 2024 All Rights Reserved advertisers. Comments concerning this publication may be submitted to the editor by E-mail at terrywatson@huamimagazine.com terry.editor@yahoo.com or to Mykel Media Company, LLC P.O. Box 20102 Greensboro, NC 27420 HUAMI MAGAZINE 2014 All Rights Reserved

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CONTENTS

JAN./FEB. 2024

ST. LOUIS

Black & Educated Clothing

Montez Fifer

On The Cover

DOC DASH LLC Kimberly St. Clair

Author and Business Woman

Shana Crumbough

Gold Link Beard Co.

Huami Magazine Cutest Baby

Broderick Williams

Mecca Causey

Also Featured

Pastor Curtis L. Johnson He has a servant’s heart and has committed his life to serving and being a voice for members of his community. Learn more about him. Greenville, SC

Natasha Houston She has traveled the world with the US Air Force. Now, she is the face of Junkyard Fitness Inc. Learn more about what she does. Little Rock, AR

Kris Rodgers Are you looking to have an event in 2024? Learn more about the story, and face and founder of KayDi’s Event Planning & Services. Huntsville, AL

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St. Louis - Jan./Feb. 2024

Doc Dash Inventor By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by Kimberly St. Clair Her goal is to change the current climate of volatile outcomes during police engagement by offering applicable solutions that standardize safety. While the divide is a nationwide problem, with civilians dying at the hands of police and police losing their lives in the line of duty, Kimberly St. Clair is making this change starting with her native home of St. Louis, MO. Kimberly is the inventress and founder of DOC DASH and its Method of Operation. DOC DASH, LLC is a for-profit Missouricertified, minority woman-owned and operated company committed to bridging the gaps in communication during police engagement. DOC DASH is a now patented, one-of-a-kind, revolutionary organizational communication system designed to allow motorists a proactive method of communicating during traffic stops and medical emergencies. When DOC DASH is used during traffic stops, upon being pulled over, the motorist is to lower their window and magnetize this unit onto the side of the vehicle’s door or over the window before police approach the vehicle. The orange “BE PATIENT WITH ME” card allows drivers to communicate any nonvisible situation, circumstance, or disability while simultaneously displaying all required motor vehicle documents. When used during medical emergencies, DOC DASH’s EMERGENCY MEDICAL INFORMATION compartment speaks when the motorist can’t, telling first responders critical medical information needed to administer personal life-saving therapy, increasing the motorist’s chances of survival. Being able to communicate with officers during traffic stops effectively is critical. These moments of ambiguity lead to misunderstandings, resulting in catastrophic outcomes. “I think it’s very interesting that it’s assumed traffic stops are a no-brainer and that there’s no need to train people how to navigate that space. You wouldn’t dare put someone in a car without teaching them how to drive, but yet we are not putting any effort into teaching people the proper protocols of police engagement,” she says.

St. Louis - Jan./Feb. 2024

“Being able to communicate with law enforcement during these precious moments is very critical, and someone not being able to communicate they’re deaf or are on the autism spectrum can be misinterpreted by police as defiant or threatening behavior.”

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Kimberly is a Cardinal Ritter College Prep High School graduate and an alumnus of Webster University. At Webster, she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science. Kimberly’s career spans the gamut, from 15 years as a mental health professional to 20-plus years as a top award-earning corporate professional and presently a certified substitute teacher in the St. Louis public school system. Additionally, she is a preventionist, speaker, and change agent for police and motorist engagement. In 2016, Kimberly was provoked into purpose by repetitive exposure to volatile outcomes during police engagement. As a mother of four, she became anxious about the future safety of her children. In 2018, her youngest child confessed her fear of being shot and killed by police, and Kimberly knew she had to make a choice: to either be paralyzed by the fear or inspired by it.

“In the process of creating DOC DASH, my son was diagnosed with being on the Autism Spectrum...... I aim to help people like my son who may face situations where they are misunderstood.”

In 2019, she took a leap of faith and began the creative process of developing the DOC DASH prototype and its curriculum, the Method of Operation. By 2022, DOC DASH was fully trademarked, and the prototype became marketready. In September 2023, the United States Patent Office awarded DOC DASH its patent, and the DOC DASH Method of Operation curriculum became an accredited curriculum available to police and motorists throughout Missouri. In St. Louis, DOC DASH and the Method of Operation curriculum is teaching protocols to law enforcement agencies. The tool also unites both drivers and police officers through safety by adding an extra layer of protection and proactively bridges the gap of communication. DOC DASH adds layers of safety and efficiency to the process and ultimately improves relationships between police officers and the communities they serve. “DOC DASH is the gold standard for police engagement and will eventually become nationally recognized,” Kimberly professes. “My goal is to interrupt the current climate of violence and change the narrative through positive 1:1 experiences.” The mission that Kimberly attends is very personal for Kimberly. She shares, “In the process of creating DOC DASH, my son was diagnosed with being on the Autism Spectrum. He was a late diagnosis, and his entire academic career has been layered with a complete misunderstanding of who he is. Not understanding who a person is will leave you to believe things about a person that are not true. His expression is so flat it looks like he doesn’t care. I aim to help people like my son who may face situations where they are misunderstood. I also want to help educate law enforcement on how to prepare for this as well. When I hear about other people’s children being killed during traffic stops and engagements with police, my heart hurts. It hurts because I feel like it’s my own child,” she says. When asked how, why, and where the idea of DOC DASH came from, Kimberly said, “It was a divine assignment I was given shortly after Philando Castile was murdered. God gave me a divine vision of the product’s design, its name, its purpose, and its destiny. I wrote it down, put it in my office drawer, and then told God it was too big for me and to give it to someone else. As years passed and other preventable tragedies occurred, I was haunted by the assignment I was given but refused to live out. I finally submitted and, in tears, asked God, “What would He have me to do?” The rest of her story is history.” Kimberly is supported by her family, husband, and four children, and she gives all glory to God! Kimberly says her clients are anyone who drives, as well as police officers and paramedics or first responders. DOC DASH is currently being endorsed by MoDOT (Missouri Department of Transportation) to conduct DOC DASH Protocols to Engagement workshops throughout the state of Missouri. The Method of Operation curriculum has also been added to the Missouri police curriculum under de-escalation. Now, police will be given continuum education hours for taking this course. Kimberly’s goal is to also make DOC DASH and it’s Method of Operation curriculum a prerequisite for obtaining driver’s license or license renewal nationwide, starting with Missouri.

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DOC DASH aims to close the gap of dissension between civilians and police. “Civilian’s and police recognize the dysfunction in their relationship and its connection to volatile outcomes. We all agree no one is winning in this space, and more needs to be done. DOC DASH workshops are currently available to all Missourians, and our long-term commitment is to focus on the relationship, proactively and aggressively, between police and their communities.”

DOC DASH LLC

www.mydocdash.com 314-363-5944

With a strategic plan to run quarterly campaigns centered around a unified approach to safety, the DOC DASH team has created a tactical plan to work with school districts most impacted by these dysfunctional relationships. “Our goal is to approach this subject with a student-first approach, making sure they feel heard and acknowledged,” Kimberly said. Additionally, DOC DASH has partnered with OTEKA SOLUTION, a 501c3, to broaden its reach. Kimberly says, “We understand we cannot do this alone. With the addition of our 501c3, we can work more seamlessly with foundations and charitable organizations to harness the resources needed to create a greater impact. It takes action to make a difference. One motorist at a time, one traffic stop at a time. Education is the key, and everyone wants to go home. We are here to offer solutions.” To learn more about DOC DASH and Oteka h Solutions, please visit their website.

St. Louis - Jan./Feb. 2024

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St. Louis - Jan./Feb. 2024

Broderick Emery Gold Link Beard Company By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by Gold Link Beard Co.

Emery Sumberlin III and Broderick Williams have made it their purpose to make an impression in the grooming and beard care industry for men. These ambitious, business-savvy entrepreneurs reign from Fort Worth, TX, and are the founders of Gold Link Beard Co. Gold Link Beard Company started in 2018 with an online store and opened its first location during the summer of 2023 in the Parks Mall in Arlington, TX. Today, the company offers a wide range of men’s grooming products for beard and hair care. Some products and services they provide are beard oils, beard balms, lotions, beard kits, natural woodcombs and brushes, handmade candles, and jewelry. Overall, Gold Link Beard Co. provides a comprehensive range of men’s grooming products and accessories crafted with care and designed to enhance the grooming experience while promoting healthy and stylish beards and hair. Emery is a native of Fort Worth, Texas, and currently resides in Mansfield, Texas, with his wife and three children. He attended the University of North Texas, where he earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology. Emery furthered his education at Amberton University, obtaining a Masters Degree in Human Relations and Business. With over 18 years of experience in Criminal Justice, Education, and Youth Development, Emery has made a significant impact in these fields. He has worked diligently to create positive change and provide opportunities for individuals within these sectors. Emery is not only dedicated to his professional endeavors but is also an ambitious entrepreneur. He started his own carpet cleaning business, which gained recognition for its exceptional service and customer satisfaction. Eventually, he established himself as a top real estate agent in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, helping clients find their dream homes and navigate the real estate market.

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Emery’s diverse background and extensive experience have shaped him into a well-rounded individual who is passionate about making a difference in his community. He continues to strive for excellence in all his endeavors and is committed to providing exceptional service and opportunities for others. Gold Link Beard Co.’s co-founder, Broderick, is a multifaceted individual who has made significant contributions as an entrepreneur, educator, and community activist. Born and raised on the SouthSide Side of Fort Worth, Broderick is a proud graduate of Texas Wesleyan University. He has always been passionate about making a positive impact in his community, which led him to serve as a zoning commissioner in District 6 of Fort Worth. He is also a dedicated member of the esteemed Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc., actively participating in various initiatives to empower and uplift his community. Broderick has played a pivotal role in fostering entrepreneurship and providing opportunities for aspiring business owners and community groups in his role as co-founder. In addition to his entrepreneurial endeavors, Broderick is deeply committed to social causes. He is also the co-founder of Survive and Thrive Education, a non-profit organization that focuses on supporting student support services from high school through college. Through this initiative, Broderick aims to ensure that every student has access to the resources and guidance they need to succeed academically and professionally. With a strong belief in the power of education, Broderick has founded several educational programs aimed at providing comprehensive support to students.

“Gold Link Beard Co. encourages men to pay attention to the small details, from the hair on their faces to their smell or an accessory that may bring out a favorite outfit or suit.

Gold Link Beard Co. products are specifically made for men who take pride in their appearance and hygiene. These products are also designed to cater to the needs of men who have facial hair, whether it’s a full beard, mustache, or stubble. The company understands that men’s grooming needs and accessories are unique and different from women’s, and they have created a line of products that address these specific needs. Gold Link’s beard oils are specially formulated to moisturize and nourish their client’s beard and skin underneath. These oils help to soften the beard, reduce itchiness, and promote healthy beard growth. They are made with natural ingredients and come in different scents to suit individual preferences. Their beard balms are similar to beard oils but have a thicker consistency. They state their beard balms provide additional hold and control for shaping and styling the beard. They also provide moisture and nourishment to keep the beard healthy and manageable. The lotions offered by Gold Link Beard Co. are specifically designed for men’s grooming needs. These lotions are lightweight and non-greasy, providing hydration and nourishment to the skin without leaving a heavy residue. They can be used on the face, beard, and body and assist with keeping the skin moisturized and smooth. Their beard kits include a combination of beard oils, balms, and other grooming essentials and are perfect for those who want a complete set of products for their beard care routine.

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The Natural WoodCombs and Brushes are highquality combs and brushes made from natural wood. They are designed to detangle and style the beard without causing any damage, help distribute their products evenly, and promote healthy beard growth. For those interested in creating a relaxing and inviting atmosphere while enjoying their grooming routine, the Handmade Candles they offer will help achieve that experience. Their candles are made with natural ingredients and come in various scents. Their selection of handmade jewelry, including bracelets, necklaces, and rings, is made with high-quality materials and complements the modern man’s style. Emery and Broderick share they love providing a product and service that caters to men’s personal appearance. “We believe that men should take care of themselves, so they can continue to be pillars in the community and in their family. Gold Link Beard Co. encourages men to pay attention to the small details, from the hair on their faces to their smell or an accessory that may bring out a favorite outfit or suit,” they said. The duo also says they are inspired by serving their community. “Growing up in an area that did not afford many opportunities, we have been blessed to receive love and support from those in our local community. This support has kept our businesses afloat and provided us opportunities to give back to them through Survive and Thrive Education,” they shared. Like most businesses, Emery and Broderick have faced some challenges. Having a limited budget and not seeing a significant return on their investment has been one. “Another challenge is that the grooming industry is highly competitive, with many established brands already catering to the market. Standing out and differentiating from competitors is challenging,” they said. Marketing can be costly for small businesses, but it’s a must-have, and Emery and Broderick have been creative and resourceful to stay ahead of the game, utilizing their marketing dollars very wisely. Gold Link Beard Co. has partnered with the program, Partner to Empower, which gives them the opportunity to expand their business into other malls across the country. “Our goal for 2024 is to open up another location in Texas and to also increase our online presence. We also plan to expand by getting our products in stores such as Macy’s, Dillards, or Target,” they shared. h

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St. Louis - Jan./Feb. 2024

KayDi’s Event Planning & Services By Dorjae McClammey Photos Provided by Kris Rodgers

If you have a birthday, wedding, or just a reason to celebrate, you need to check out Kris Rodgers with KayDi’s Event Planning & Services. Currently residing in Huntsville, AL, St. Louis, MO, native is a graduate of Alabama A&M University. There, Kris obtained a Computer Science degree that connected perfectly with her passion for computer and video games, and with it, Kris would delve into the world of computer applications. Kris would also work in IT Support and Management before starting her family with her husband, Di’Juan. Even though her background is in IT, Kris is well-versed in creating anything she can think of with her hands. As her family grew, Kris’s motherly duties involved planning events and parties for little ones. She discovered a newfound passion; not only was she able to give her kids a unique and signature experience, but it also allowed Kris to express her creativity. She would use typical themes of princesses and superheroes and even created a hip-hop carnival with an actual dancing clown included. “The parties were so extravagant that family members would call months in advance just to see what we had planned,” she says. It was apparent that she was onto something.

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Kris’s events became such a hit with her family that her husband suggested she turn her newfound love into a business. She agreed, and so in 2009, KayDi’s Events was established. As her business began to find its footing in a new location, along came the Covid 19 pandemic, and just as the rest of the world came to a screeching halt, so did life for Kris. During this unforeseen saga, Kris realized that she didn’t enjoy working for someone else, especially a corporation that apparently didn’t value her worth. She had an answer for that, and KayDi’s Events would become a full-time venture. The name KayDi’s Events is an ode to celebrating her family. Kris shared, “After years of hosting my kids’ parties, I named the business after them: Kaylen and Di’Juan. Every year, they inspired me to create new themes from Get Messy, Hip Hop Carnival, Kickball, and even Cupcake Wars. I became so involved in creating memorable experiences for them that including them in branding the business only made sense. They are genuinely the inspiration behind my events and what I create.”

The Rodgers

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KayDi’s Event Planning & Services has the capacity to produce various types of events. While their foundation is built around birthdays, social events, and weddings, Kris also covers corporate parties and engagements. When it comes to planning services, her team has that covered as well. They offer what she calls ‘last minute planning’ where the client may need another set of eyes for the little details. Whether it involves vendors, walkthroughs, or one-on-one consultations, her team takes pride in having solutions for every challenge. “Even if you only need someone to set up and break down, we got you,” Kris says. KayDi’s recently launched KayDi’s Event Rentals which is operated by Kris’s husband and KayDi’s Gifts operated by her daughter.

Pictured with Kris is her husband Di’Juan, Sr and their children, Kaylen, Di’Juan II, & DeMarcus

“My aunts and grandma used to sew, put things together, redo their bathrooms, and even hosted Barbie & Ken weddings. So it comes naturally to me to create things with my hands.”

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So, how did the creativity begin in Kris? She shares, “I grew up around women who were also creatives. My aunts and grandma used to sew, put things together, redo their bathrooms, and even hosted Barbie & Ken weddings. So it comes naturally to me to create things with my hands”. From flower and money bouquets to giant centerpieces, Kris focuses on taking her client’s vision, elevating it, and giving them more than anticipated. “We don’t offer cookie-cutter experiences because every client is different.” Kris understands that her clients are often seeking to experience a timeless event, something that will be memorable and celebrated with family and friends. Knowing this, she takes every client seriously. Kris describes an experience she had with a client who was diagnosed with cancer. “All they wanted was a chance to have one big celebration with their family before her health further declined. They called it, ‘A Gala of Gratitude’. While her loved ones didn’t know what to expect, they ultimately had a phenomenal time. From prayers, line dancing, an opera singer, and more, it was a celebration filled with love, and knowing that I was able to produce it for her makes it all worth it.” Running a fully capable event planning company comes with its share of challenges. Kris shared that one challenge she has faced is having some clients not fully understand what party planning is or what is included with their services. She says that kind of misunderstanding can lead to assumptions about additional services or expected costs. She answers these challenges by being very transparent and providing full details about her processes on her website, allowing her potential clients to become fully informed. Still, she is available for any additional questions they may have. Despite the ups and downs, Kris loves the growth that comes through her company. If you were to compare her work from 2008 to the present day, one thing that has stayed the same is her drive to make sure other people feel celebrated. Speaking of what’s next, Kris plans to continue adding new components to her brand, including transportation, travel, and more. She also plans to take her brand beyond Huntsville within a three to four-hour travel radius. All in all, her goal is to continue to pour out gifts and services to clients. If you are thinking about starting an event planning business like that of KayDi’s Event Planning & Services, Kris offers some sound advice. “Be grateful that your problems are your problems. While the other side may look sweeter, you don’t know what journey or problems they went through to get where they are.” For more information about Kris and Kaydi’s Event Planning & Services, please visit their website. h

www.kaydis.com St. Louis - Jan./Feb. 2024

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Junkyard Fitness, Inc. By Terry L. Watson - Photos Provided by Natasha Houston

While Natasha Houston resides in Little Rock, AR, her native home is undefined. Her stance is that she is not really from anywhere because she moved around a lot as a kid. After graduating high school, she joined the United States Air Force, and her nomadic conquest would continue. Now, as a Disabled Air Force Veteran, Natasha has found her footing as a successful physical fitness trainer, helping others obtain healthy lifestyles. Natasha is the owner of Junkyard Fitness, Inc. Her company is operated under two umbrellas: a coaching side with Junkyard Clinic and a health side with Junkyard Fitness. “Junkyard Fitness, Inc. is a holistic business that focuses on the whole person. We offer services and products that educate clients and customers on the benefit of a natural holistic transition of mind, body, and soul,” she says. Natasha offers a variety of coaching programs. One of them is Mindfulness & Stress Management, which teaches mindfulness techniques and strategies for managing stress. There is also Spiritual Coaching that helps individuals explore and enhance their spiritual beliefs, practices, and overall sense of purpose. Natasha also has Relationship Coaching that assists clients in improving their interpersonal relationships, whether they’re romantic, family, or friendship. With her Health & Wellness Coaching, she supports clients in improving their physical and mental health, often focusing on areas like nutrition, fitness, and stress management. Finally, Natasha provides Weight Loss & Holistic Nutrition, which focuses on nutrition and overall health, supporting dietary and lifestyle changes. Her clients can choose alternative medicine or general health supplements through plant-based solutions. Her Junkyard Herbal/Juice Solutions include Compound Capsulated Supplements filled with plant-based herbs. She also has Sea Moss Gel, Elderberry, Fresh Cold Pressed Juice, and all-natural fruit juices for detox, energy, and nutritional value. Her Natural Hair/Skin Products are Natural Soaps, Natural Hair Oil, and Natural Hair and Skin Body Moisturizer or Butter. Natasha has a Masters of Science degree in Organizational Leadership. She has served in fitness for six years, and in 2023, she incorporated wellness into her portfolio and began utilizing it in her healing journey. Junkyard Fitness, Inc. was launched on June 1st, 2018. Natasha says, “I opened a gym in North Little Rock, AR, and only provided fitness programs. As I started noticing and learning how health and weight loss worked, I started looking into other ways to help my clients to aid in their weight loss journey. That opened the door to me exploring and learning more than just fitness benefits, but whole-body benefits and about mind and spirit. My research also helped to gain an understanding of the current food industry and how people are impacted by it. It also involved understanding black culture and how African Americans, hundreds of years ago, relied on plants and plant-based lifestyles for improved health and healing.” In her business, Natasha says what she loves most about what she does is exposing the truth: the truth that everything isn’t fixed by medicine and that healing can happen naturally if you feed your body and mind to do so. “The more that I had expanded my knowledge on how the mind and body work, what it needs to heal, and the importance of physical strength, especially for the disabled, the more it has answered the one question I asked myself once I was medically discharged from the military; Was the body not meant to heal itself naturally? And if so, how?”

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Natasha says she is inspired by the teachings of the late, great Dr. Sebi and learning how the body is able to heal itself. “As stated before, I am a disabled military veteran, and I have over 11 physical disabilities and four mental health challenges. I have relied on medication for help with chronic pain, inflammation, the physical limitations it caused, and the level of sadness that followed. The day that I decided to end my relationship with prescribed medication was the day that I prayed to God to help me find a solution to my agony. Within the next 24 hours, a married couple and longtime friends, Darnell and Soraya Stark, recommended that I watch a video on YouTube about Dr. Sebi. I got lost in studies and started my own journey to self-healing in order to naturally cope with my health challenges,” she says. There is Junkyard Fitness Inc. and the challenge of branding and building the brand. Natasha has tackled this head-on and realizes the benefits it has, as well as understands the different ways to incorporate it into her processes. “Marketing and branding strategist Sheenica Smiley of A Blind Vision Studios is currently coaching me. Sheenica is a photographer and has helped me make my brand more identifiable. We are currently working on putting processes in place to improve how I connect with current and future customers and clients,” she says. Additionally, Natasha is always looking for ways to educate her clients and others about the benefits of holistic lifestyle changes. A tool she has brought into the fold is a new podcast.

Personal development is also something Natasha focuses on. There is a level of confidence, faith, and tenacity she believes one must have to have as an entrepreneur. “The more I worked on myself and evolved into a newer version of myself, the better my business became. Working on myself looks like heavy mediation. It also looks like taking time by myself, tuning the world out, and checking in with my total self, mind, body, and soul,” she says. For someone interested in holistic health as a business, Natasha advises always to be true to yourself first, and everything else will fall into place. “The holistic lifestyle is a journey, and nothing is to be rushed. The more information you absorb about the benefits and how it can help others, the more likely you are to grow through your own process. Sometimes, that requires pulling away from the business and taking time for yourself mentally, physically, and spiritually. It may seem like financial suicide, but it will actually make your business stronger.” As she looks ahead, Natasha says she is finally ready to take her business outside of her local community of Little Rock, AR. “I have a lot of clients all over the world, and due to my connection to the military, I also have clients overseas. This has encouraged me to reach even further nationally and internationally by tapping into content sharing through podcasts, blogs, and speaking engagements. Personally, I am still working on myself. To whom much is given, much is required, and I want to be prepared mentally, physically, and spiritually to handle what is coming for me and Junkyard Fitness, Inc.” h

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FIFER

Black & Educated By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by Montez Fifer From FBI to Fashion icon, Memphis, TN, native Montez Fifer is no stranger to style. Born and raised in the Whitehaven area of Memphis, TN, Montez Fifer got involved with fashion, particularly fashion design, at a young age. Montez was always curious about how he could style different pieces to make it his own, and that curiosity would continue to follow him throughout his young life. Montez graduated from Southwind High School in Memphis. His next move was to attend the University of Memphis, where he received his undergraduate degree in criminal justice. After college, Montez says he originally planned to join the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). He shares, “I handled the programs at the FBI academy with ease, performed well on all my interviews, and was ready to get started. That was until I had to take a lie detector test. I stood true to my morals and told them the truth about being a part of a drug transaction earlier in life,” Montez’s honesty caused officials to stop the whole process and, ultimately, ended his chance at being a part of the FBI. That experience really changed the trajectory of Montez’s goals for life. Eventually, he worked at a warehouse, making a good living, but he wanted more. Today, Montez is the face and visionary of Black and Educated, a fashion line he created to express his viewpoint and creativity on life. Montez shared that the uptick of police brutality and the death of young black men motivated his brand, taking note of Trayvon Martin’s death and how he was labeled suspicious for walking around with a black hoodie, he shares, “I always thought what if his black hoodie had a message on it?” Then in November of 2015, Montez and his cousin drew up the first official logo: a baby wearing glasses and holding a book. In the beginning, just a few of his family and friends wore his brand, but as more people saw it, the interest in purchasing it grew. With his passion for fashion and his drive for bettering the black community, Montez took his brand full throttle in 2019.

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As the brand grew, so did the designs. Montez always wanted to keep his audience engaged, to the point of switching his logo every two months. However, he did some research and decided it would be best to have one primary logo, and four sublogos, all giving the perfect representation of Black and Educated. Although, Montez made it clear his brand is for everyone in the community, not just those who went to school. “I tell people all the time, you don’t need a degree to be B & E, Black and Educated. It’s all about life, you can learn from books, experiences, and even other people. I want others to feel empowered in the different ways.” Now if you’re looking for a nice, chill brand with a big message, you’ll get that through Black and Educated. Montez notes that his style is very simple and incorporates his message into his work. He avoids flashy designs and chooses to let the meaning of the brand shine more than the clothes. “Let your clothes do the talking. I’m all about a subtle flex. If they know they know, if they don’t, well then they’ll ask and find out.”

“Let your clothes do the talking. I’m all about a subtle flex. If they know they know, if they don’t, well then they’ll ask and find out.” Just like any business, Montez faced some challenges while growing his brand, and the main one was marketing. He is more of a homebody and doesn’t go out much to promote his work. He has also been challenged with finding brand ambassadors that care more about the brand than the money. Yet, he is grateful for having a strong group of friends who pick up the slack and support him to the fullest. Even more, during HBCU’s homecoming season, Montez makes sure to pop out and show out for his brand. Every year you can catch him at the Southern Heritage Classic, as well as many other HBCU events. Montez says he loves the opportunities and freedoms that come with building his brand. He says, “For as long as I’ve been doing this, I still get excited to press, design, and see the reactions from my supporters and customers. It gives me a sense of fulfillment to know that I did that.” As for the future of the Black and Educated brand, you can expect a few new pieces to hit the market soon. Montez also hopes to branch out and be a part of more vendor events across the nation, including the Essence Festival in New Orleans and events in Las Vegas. The ultimate goal, Montez says, is to build the brand larger, acquire a distribution deal, and have Black and Educated available at least 10 HBCU bookstores.

As for future designers, Montez says to wear your brand, try new things, and don’t get discouraged. Remember that your losses are lessons, and most importantly, if you really love your brand and believe in your brand, that’s all that matters. To learn more about Black and Educated, please visit their website. h

www.blackandeducatedclothing.com 29

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St. Louis - Jan./Feb. 2024

Pastor

Valley Brook Outreach Baptist Church “I See Ministry As An Opportunity to Impact The Lives of Members of My Community” By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by Pastor Curtis L. Johnson Everyone has a story. Our lives are made of the roads we’ve traveled, many of which are full of twists and turns, with a few peaks and valleys. Some are littered with pitfalls and obstacles, strategically placed to slow our progress or ultimately stop us. For Greenville, SC, native Curtis Johnson, the story of his life is no different. As the pastor of Valley Brook Outreach Baptist Church located in Pelzer, SC, Pastor Curtis Johnson says his focus is to lead lost souls to God and make an impression on the world that is pleasing in the eyes of God. “I am a man with a genuine desire to please God who strives to uplift my people. I see ministry as an opportunity to impact the lives of members of my community. I give myself to make that happen in any capacity that I can,” he says. Currently residing in Mauldin, SC, Pastor Curtis Johnson graduated from JL Mann High School. After high school, he enlisted in the United States Air Force and served four years before returning home to fulfill his true calling. Pastor Johnson later attended Morris College School of Religion Greenville Extension, and North Grenville University. He earned his Master of Divinity Degree from the M. Christopher White School of Divinity at Gardner-Webb University. He has been married to Charla for 34 years, and they share two sons, Isiah and Joshua. He has served as Senior Pastor of the Valley Brook Outreach Baptist Church Church since 1993. “Our vision is summed up in the acronym I.M.P.A.C.T., which stands for “Innovate Ministries for Personal and Community Transformation,” he says. “Our ministry is truly about life application. We help individuals advance socially, spiritually, financially, and economically, regardless of their stage of life.” He is also a former S.C. State Overseer for the Full Gospel Baptist Church Fellowship. Pastor Johnson is a “Preacher’s Grandkid”. His father was his grandfather’s chairman of Deacons, and his mother was the musician for the church. The church was birthed while sitting around his grandparent’s kitchen table in 1987. This happened around the time when Pastor Johnson was still in the Air Force, and while he was deciding to reenlist for another four years, he made the choice to come back to South Carolina and help his family with their ministry. “It was then, in 1990, that I felt the call into ministry and preached my first sermon on August 12th of that year,” he says. After preaching for a few years, Pastor Johnson says his grandfather was getting up in age, so he turned the ministry over to him in 1993, and in May of last year, he celebrated 30 years of preaching the gospel of God. Pastor Johnson says the journey of preaching over the last 30 years has given him an extensive perspective of what ministry could be about and its potential impact locally and internationally. His journey has also come with some things that Pastor Johnson didn’t see coming. In February of last year, he suffered a major heart attack and needed emergency heart surgery. “I didn’t know I was having a heart attack. I had been dealing with some intense heartburn for a few days and decided to visit an urgent care facility to get something to help with it. While there, they called the ambulance, and I was transported to a hospital. I was taken to pre-op and taken into emergency surgery. They told me I was actively having a heart attack, and I couldn’t believe it. The level of pain was not very severe, and I didn’t think it was that serious, yet it was. I now encourage men to visit their doctors and get regular checkups,” he says.

“I am a man with a genuine desire to please God who strives to uplift my people.” With therapy and treatment, Pastor Johnson would fully recover from the heart attack he suffered in February. However, life would continue to happen for him. In July of last year, he was diagnosed with Aggressive Prostate Cancer and was told that he needed to have surgery immediately. In August, the surgery was successfully performed, and all of the cancer cells were removed. “Had I not had myself checked out, I very well have missed what was going on with me, but I paid attention, and by the grace of God, I am still here,” he says. “Not only have I fully recovered from my heart attack, I am 100% cancer-free. I am absolutely blessed. Being able to be here with my family, I give God all of the glory and praise for that.” Pastor Johnson is known as a Change Agent in his community and shares that he feels his ministry can make life better for others. “I am a problem solver. I love making a difference and helping people. I also love creating a different culture and environment in our community,” he says. Pastor Johnson is a Community Activist, Social Justice Advocate and is a contracted NonViolence365 employee for the King Center for Nonviolent Social Change in Atlanta, GA, under the leadership of Dr Bernice King. He has been a strategic partner in establishing long-term relationships between The King Center and both the NFL and the American Red Cross. He is an active member of the Disaster Services Department of the Full Gospel Baptist Church Fellowship International under the leadership of Bishop LaTresa Jester. Additionally, Pastor Johnson has produced projects in the Upstate Community to address social issues that relate to race, violence, diversity, and more. Pastor Johnson credits his grandfather with shaping his life into what it is today. He also credits the late Dr Myles Munroe for helping him understand the kingdom of God. When Pastor Johnson became a part of the Full Gospel Baptist Fellowship, he became connected with the late Bishop Eddie Long, and Pastor Johnson credits him for helping him to see what the church could do more beyond their walls. He also appreciates the ministry of Bishop TD Jakes of The Potter’s House Church in Dallas, TX, and Bishop Joseph Walker, the presiding Bishop for Full Gospel Baptist Fellowship, for having incredible ministries and programs that have impacted millions of lives. “Now, at age 56, what keeps me going are the solid relationships I have with other pastors and the people we serve. I don’t seek to duplicate other pastors, but instead learn from them,” he says. As the future unfolds, Pastor Johnson plans to continue to be a willing vessel for God. When Valley Brook Outreach Baptist Church came about in 1987, they were in a small building that held about 100 people. In 1993, he took over as pastor, and in 1999, the church bought 25 acres of land to build a new church, and it successfully opened its doors of their bigger facility in 2001. It currently seats between 800 - 1000 people, while only utilizing 10 acres of the land that was purchased. As the shepherd and visionary of Valley Brook Outreach Baptist Church, he is leading the way in building a multi-unit housing development on 10 of the remaining available acres. “I want to get families out of the streets and create solutions to homelessness.” To learn more about Pastor Curtis Johnson and Valley Brook Outreach Baptist Church, h please visit their website.

www.valleybrookoutreach.org 32

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“Pretty Girl You Can Do Hard Things” By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by Shana Crumbough

When creativity meets drive, you meet Shana Crumbough. The 39-year-old Decatur, AL, native is huge on family and describes herself as a helper and a do-er at heart. She also loves music and dancing and shares that everyone around her must feel loved, heard, and cared for. Shana obtained her Bachelor of Sociology degree from The University of North Alabama, a Master of Social Work from the University of Alabama, and is currently pursuing her second Masters in Applied Behavior Analysis from the University of West Florida. Shana is a member of the Central North Alabama Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc., and devotes her life to helping and serving others. At the focal point of Shana’s life is God. Without Him, Shana confesses that she wouldn’t be who she is. Having several professional and personal accomplishments, Shana is a licensed, board-certified behavior analyst and Satori Alternatives to Managing Aggression (SAMA) facilitator. In her role, she teaches safely de-escalating situations using verbal and, if needed, physical containment to individuals to help them and others they serve be safe. Four years ago, Shana opened one of two (hers being the only black-owned) behavioral intervention and de-escalation companies for children with special needs and disruptive behaviors in the classroom. She also successfully secured a contract with a local school system.

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Today, she is the owner of Every Step ABA Services, LLC, and Shana Dawn Books. Her company teaches classroom readiness, potty training, and increasing effective communication skills. In addition to de-escalating disruptive and sometimes aggressive behaviors, she works with other professionals to eliminate barriers that prohibit students from engaging appropriately in a typical learning environment. Additionally, Shana serves as a fitness instructor and encourages health, movement, and fun for people of all ages in her community. She has performed the opening act to start The Thrive Run in Indiana, The Alzheimer’s Walk, and The Color Vibe Run in Huntsville and Decatur. Shana became a published poet at the age of ten. Over the previous four years, she has authored four books, and throughout her college career, she performed as a member of a spoken word group. Philosophies she lives by are “Find The Silver Lining, You May Have To Dig, But It’s Always There” and “Do It Scared”. As an author, some of the books that she has published are: Maybe I Can Too, Maybe I Can Too Coloring Book, Affirmations and Actions for Those with Fibromyalgia and Other Invisible Illnesses, and PaPa Tim and His Favorite Hat. The PaPa Tim series was released in memory of her father, Tim Crumbough.

everystepaba@gmail.com www.everystepaba.com

So how did Shana get started? She shares, “Every Step ABA Services is the fulfillment of a dream. I began in June 2019 with a friend and Soror, Alicia L. Jackson. We worked together previously, and we wanted to be the first women who looked like us to own a company that serviced children with Autism. Our paths led us in different ways briefly, but we stayed in contact and were always willing to share treatment ideas. We knew we could change lives around us, and I believed that having a partner you can trust and exchange ideas with is genuinely beneficial.” In 2019, Shana called Alicia and asked her if she was ready for the new school year. Thankfully, she was. “I worked on the ground, and Alicia worked behind the scenes while working another job and being a new mom. We made it work,” Shana says. Alicia is no longer with Shana’s company. However, she continues to do amazing things and change lives, all while keeping the relationship with Shana intact.

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As a black woman, I am constantly judged for the way I wear my hair. Whether it is microaggression or openly blatant racism, it is still around. I wanted little girls coming after me to know they are capable beyond measure.” St. Louis - Jan./Feb. 2024

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It is obvious that Shana is walking in her purpose. The vision for both companies is connected to her faith in God. With writing, Shana says, “I have always loved writing and have had an active imagination. As a black woman, I am constantly judged for the way I wear my hair. Whether it is microaggression or openly blatant racism, it is still around. I wanted little girls coming after me to know they are capable beyond measure. That is the reason behind my first book. The fourth book, PaPa Tim and His Favorite Hat, is the first book in the PaPa Tim series and is produced in memory of my dad, who passed away in July 2022. My dad absolutely loved his hats, and this series is close to my heart.” Shana says she loves utilizing her skills to help change the lives of children, their parents, and teachers. “I have the opportunity to change the trajectory of someone’s life. It is worth it if I can make a task easier and allow the child or the family to succeed. Seeing children succeed makes my heart happy! It is the why,” she says. As an independent author, Shana shares that exposure is the biggest challenge she faces. “Of course, I would love to walk into large bookstores and see my books or be one of the authors discussed on national television. Until that moment happens, I will continue to work locally to get my books in the hands of as many children as possible.” Moving forward, Shana plans to continue to find ways to serve and help others. Whether it be within her business or some other capacity, she will remain in a loving and giving posture. She is currently hiring hiring local RBTs and Behavior Therapist Her advice to others who may be sitting on a vision and waiting for clarity on what to do next is simple. “Don’t be afraid to step out! Don’t let not knowing how to do something stop you from doing it. Believe in yourself and God’s plan for you,” she says. “When it is something I want to do, there is no amount of “no’s” that will stop me!” h

Shana Crumbough

crumboughbooks@gmail.com www.Shanadawnbooks.com 38

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“Twant me, ‘twas the Lord. I always told him, ‘I trust to you. I don’t know where to go or what to do, but I expect you to lead me,’ and He always did.”

Harriet Tubman 40

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Mecca Causey The son of Ryan Causey and Nijalon Jackson-Causey

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