Huami Magazine Triad Jan./Feb. 2024

Cedar Grove

Tabernacle of Praise

Celebrating 100 Years

Prayer Is More Effective

A Letter From The Editor

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 was able to accomplish in 2023, and I am even more excited about 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 amazing publication.

This year, Mykel Media Company LLC, the parent company that publishes Huami Magazine, is back at it. We are excited to relaunch Spunq Sports Magazine. We are also amping up the production of Huami For Kids Magazine, and with each publication that is produced by our company, a newly designed line of merchandise and apparel will accompany it.

When I think about where we have come from over the previous seventeen years, my heart wells with emotion because I know we couldn’t have made it without the prayers of those who believe in what God purposed. I thank you for your prayers and for believing.

My message is for those who are questioning what is happening in your life. God is working. Oftentimes, we can’t see His hand, but He is there. Even at our lowest of lowest moments, and we have exhausted the last granule of strength to move, God is working. We must believe that not everyone desires to see you fail. In the midst of onlookers, there are some who find comfort and strength in seeing the underdog win. Trophies are made for underdogs as well. What’s more beautiful to know is that true believers are strengthened by witnessing God work miracles in the lives of others, too!

As disciples and believers in God, we must always seek ways to be an answered prayer for someone who needs it. Long before God assigned me a purpose, I was helped out of my pits by the selfless prayers of other believers. Believers who weren’t amused or entertained by my shortcomings or faults but were excited about seeing me blossom into my fullest potential. So they prayed for me.

Prayer is the most effective thing we can do.

Terry

Siler’s Cane Corso’s Keith JAN./FEB. 2024 TRIAD EDITION CONTENTS Also Featured 30 44 37

Siler 38

18 24 8 Jazley Trouser Learn how this former foster child has used her experience to help others have a more successful chance at life. Detroit, MI Cutest Baby Photo He is a real cutey. Introducing Mecca Causey. He is featured as Huami Magazine’s Cutest Baby

Kansas City, MO Dallas, TX Greensboro, NC

Chicago, IL

28 40 07

32 Gold Link Beard Co. Broderick Williams & Emery Sumberlin Triad Cyber Solutions Will Casterlow

Giving Back To His Community Bernard Steward

The Benefits of A Hot Stone Massage Sarah Watson

On The Cover

Triad Cyber Solutions

In Times Of Cyber Uncertainty… Who Do You Run To?

Informaton Provided by Will Casterlow

Are you losing sleep over the safety of your small business’s digital assets? You’re not alone. Many small businesses face the looming threat of cyberattacks daily. At Triad Cyber Solutions, we understand that cyber security is not just a feature of your IT environment but the backbone that keeps

Strong Managed Detection & Response (MDR)

A step beyond, our MDR service offers comprehensive oversight of your cyber environment. We stay on the offense so that attacks are stopped before they happen, eliminating disruptions and maintaining your peace of mind.

HIPAA Compliance Assurance

For businesses in the healthcare domain, we ensure your practices are HIPAA compliant, protecting patient data with the highest standard of security measures.

Disaster Planning & Data Backup

We believe in preparation, not just prevention. Our Disaster Planning & Data Backup solutions protect your critical data from any cyber-attacks, ensuring business continuity no matter the crisis.

24/7 Email Support & Software Installation

Our team is always ready with 24/7 Email Support to address any queries or concerns. Rely on us for smooth integration when upgrading or installing new software.

In a world of uncertainties, be certain about your cyber security. Choose Triad Cyber Solutions now.

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We understand that cyber security is not just a feature of your IT environment, but the backbone that keeps your operations safe and sound.

ELIM Christian Fellowship Hosts Sneaker Ball

Join the Elim Christian Fellowship for an extraordinary evening of elegance, style, and purpose at the Love Fest 2.0: Sneaker Ball Edition Fundraiser—a one-of-a-kind event. Prepare to step into a world where formal attire meets the comfort of your favorite sneakers, all in the spirit of giving and community.

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to make a difference while celebrating the unity and spirit of our community. Purchase your tickets today and get ready to dance, dine, and make a meaningful contribution. Three exclusive sponsorship opportunities are available - Gold, Silver, and Platinum, each providing varying levels of visibility and recognition. Your generous support will not only contribute to the success of the Sneaker Ball but also make a significant impact on the lives of those in our community. Please see the following sponsorship levels below:

Silver ($350)

Acknowledgement during the Sneaker Ball Program, Mention of Sneaker Ball Event, and two complimentary tickets to the event.

Gold ($500)

Acknowledgement during the Sneaker Ball Program, Mention of Sneaker Ball Event, and three complimentary tickets to the event.

Platinum ($1000)

Prime logo or ad placement in the Sneaker Ball program, Special gratitude announcement during the event, and an exclusive sponsorship table during the Sneaker Ball, including six complimentary tickets to the event. For more information, please contact Tiffany Fox at 336-358-7854 or via email at tiffanyfox831@gmail.com

Dena Harley

Cedar Grove Tabernacle of Praise

Celebrating 100 Years of Serving God And Our Community

By Monica Montgomery Photos Provided by Still Shots Photography and Snuggs Photography

Understanding our history helps to guide us into the future. History is tied to the local church for most African American communities. In 1923, eight people from the Terra Cotta community of Greensboro, North Carolina, gathered to discuss the establishment of a church. In 2023, Cedar Grove Tabernacle of Praise proudly celebrated its centennial year.

In a time when the world is changing with the click of a button, the historic Cedar Grove Tabernacle of Praise is going strong as a beacon of hope, light, love, and faith in the Terra Cotta community. Terra Cotta, named after the brownish-red clay, was explicitly founded to segregate the African American workers who, from the 1880s to the 1970s, made the clay pipes that ran beneath the city.

Since that fateful gathering of the founding eight members, Cedar Grove has become a pillar of stability in its community. Displaying strength and wisdom from the past while lighting a path of hope for the future. Over the one hundred years the church has been in service, it has only had five pastors. The current senior pastor of almost eight years is Overseer J. Troy Blackwell. When the previous senior pastor of CGTOP selected him, Blackwell was pastoring the church he founded.

“I’ve only been the pastor of CGTOP for eight years. My connection to the church goes back to 2004. I knew of Cedar Grove Tabernacle of Praise through our Full Gospel Baptist Church Fellowship affiliations, and I would eventually understand my purpose. My predecessor, Dr. James A Johnson, hand-selected me for the senior pastor position once he retired,” he explains.

Overseer J. Troy Blackwell Lady

Overseer Blackwell received his call to the gospel while on active duty in the US Navy. He was licensed in the ministry of the gospel in 1991. He retired from the Navy in 2002, and God led him to plant a church, that being, Freedom For Living Ministries which he founded in the basement of his home.

“Before starting Freedom For Living Ministries, a fellow pastor and friend reached out to me and asked me to do a sermon series at his church while he went on a short sabbatical. Once I started my church, my friend invited me to go with him to a Full Gospel Baptist Church Fellowship conference in Arizona in 2004. That year, I became part of the Full Gospel Church Fellowship,” he explained.

In the following years, Blackwell, armed with his love for God and his passion for teaching God’s word, received recognition in the Full Gospel Baptist Church Fellowship community. “I was appointed to West Central District Director of Christian Education. Next, I served as the state Director of Christian Education for the Full Gospel Baptist Church Fellowship of the State of North Carolina. In 2008, I was elevated to the District Overseer of the Central District Full Gospel Baptist Church Fellowship of North Carolina,” he says.

The different district positions allowed Blackwell to fellowship with several churches, including CGTOP. Blackwell says, “Dr. Johnson brought me in several times to do workshops and things like that. So, he and I had a strong relationship, and the church and I were very familiar with each other.”

Before being asked to become senior pastor of CGTOP, Overseer Blackwell says the Lord showed him a vision. “God told me that I would have two churches. One would be in a rural area, and one in the city. God showed me specific dynamics and areas where each church had major strengths and weaknesses. My role was understanding how to merge the two,” Blackwell continues. “The rural church is smaller and family-focused. It is truly a community church. The issue is the rural church is often steeped in traditions and resistant to change. The urban church is organized and progressive, but the intimacy and connectivity can sometimes be lost if we’re not careful. My assignment is to bridge the gap between the two ideologies.”

Pictured above are members of The Reunion Choir

Pictured above are lifelong members of Cedar Grove TOP

Blackwell sought God’s wisdom, thinking that God was calling him to plant a second church. Not long after, he received a call from Dr. Johnson, the then-current senior pastor, telling him he planned to retire. “Dr. Johnson called and said that he was retiring in a year and wanted me to take over as senior pastor at CGTOP,” Blackwell said with a laugh. “I didn’t see it coming, to be honest. I asked him if he was sure, and he said yes. At that point, God’s vision became clear. I would be merging two churches. Freedom for Living, a small rural community church, and CGTOP, a larger urban church.”

In the one hundred years that CGTOP has existed, it has done so because of forward-thinking leadership and community support. Each pastor was instrumental in the growth of the church and its congregation. Initially a Baptist church, Dr. James A. Johnson, in his twenty-six years as senior pastor of Cedar Grove, helped to connect it to the Full Gospel Baptist Church Fellowship.

Cedar Grove Tabernacle of Praise is an essential cornerstone of the Terra Cotta community and its rich history. As Overseer Blackwell goes into his eight years of service, he understands the importance of securing the church’s relevance to the people of this historic Greensboro community and those who will come after him.

“Changing The Lost Into The Loving.....”

Matthew 28:19-20

Pictured with Lady Kimberly and Overseer J. Troy Blackwell are their children, Bethany and Joshua

Photo (this page and next page) by Snuggs Photography

“I must acknowledge that the things I’ve been able to accomplish for all my years of shepherding God’s people from the beginning until now, has been due the fact that my wife of 37 years, Kimberly, my partner in marriage and ministry has faithfully served by my side..

Lady Kimberly and Overseer J. Troy Blackwell

“Encouraging people to take an interest in how their city and town is run is important. Getting the information out so people can be informed voters gives them the power to advocate for themselves. This is the only way communities like ours will survive. I know empowering the people of God to help make the laws that govern them is God-ordained,” Blackwell says. While it has only been seven years for Blackwell as the Pastor of Cedar Grove, he knows what legacy he wants to leave behind. “My desired effect on this church and community is simple. I want my legacy to be that we honored God and used his wisdom to build the community up one family at a time.”

“I Love Dogs..... Period”

By Monica Montgomery Photos Provided by Snuggs Photography

He has been called a dog whisperer.

The familiar adage, dogs are a man’s best friend, rings true for over half a million households across the United States.

According to the Forbes Advisor, 66% of Americans own pets, totaling nearly 89.6 million homes. Of that 89.6 million, 65.1 million are dog owners. (Information based on Pet Ownership Statistics 2024)

The numbers mentioned are based on registered ownership of dogs; however, they don’t account for the countless number of people who have picked up strays or acquired a dog from a friend of a friend. Needless to say, owning a dog is a part of American culture, but what’s not typical is finding legitimate breeders who take pride in ensuring the animals they breed are worthy of their bloodline. Keith Siler is anything but typical.

Keith is a breeder of the Italian Cane Corso. “The Cane Corso is a large breed originally called Italian Mastiffs. They are a beautiful breed and intelligent protectors,” Keith explains.

The Cane Corso’s lineage goes back to ancient Roman times, and the breed’s name roughly translates from the Latin as ‘bodyguard-dog.’ Keith shares he was initially attracted to the Corso because of their beauty and their complex reputation. According to the American Kennel Club, the Cane Corso is smart, trainable, and of noble bearing. They also identify the breed as being assertive, confident, and fearless protectors.

Throughout Keith’s life, he has always loved dogs. “As a kid, I always loved animals. It didn’t matter if it was a stray mutt or not. I just loved dogs,” Keith explained. “When I was eleven, my mom bought me a pit bull terrier as a pet, and I’ve had a heart for the breed ever since.”

Keith would begin his breeding journey with the American Pit Bull Terrier and shared that, like the Corse breed, American Pit Bulls are often misunderstood. “Pit Bulls are no more dangerous than any other breed. They require love like all dogs, but most importantly, you have to know how to train the animal.”

“As a kid, I always loved animals. It didn’t matter if it was a stray mutt or not. I just loved dogs. When I was eleven, my mom bought me a pit bull terrier as a pet, and I’ve had a heart for the breed ever since.”

In his late teens or early twenties, Keith started to study breeding, and he wanted to become an advocate for the pit bull terrier. “My goal wasn’t just to breed the dog but to help save the bloodline. I believed that with proper breeding, I could create a stronger breed of the terrier and help change its reputation,” he shares. The American Pit Bull Terrier was categorized as a fighting dog breed in 19th-century England for just that purpose. The American Kennel Club doesn’t recognize it as a distinct breed, but its cousin, the American Staffordshire Terrier, is.

The love of the breed and seeing American Pit Bulls flourish is what has kept Keith going for almost thirty years. During this period, he was faced with the challenge of helping the American Pit Bull Terrier escape its image as a savage fighter. “As a kid, I didn’t know what I had. It was a pet, a friend, and a companion to me. It wasn’t until I became an adult that I learned what the Pit Bull breed was created for and why people wanted them. I felt like they were given a label because of how people chose to train and use them, not for what they were. For me, they were affectionate, protective, friendly, and playful, and I believed they could gain a different reputation with proper breeding. Yet, no matter what I did. I couldn’t seem to move the needle,” he says.

Breeding and boarding animals is an expensive business that can yield big dividends. Still, buyers didn’t want to invest in the quality that Keith had poured his soul into. “The biggest issue I came across was that people wanted quality but didn’t want to pay for it. I had a good reputation, but because I was from the area, people assumed my dogs were subpar,” Keith explained. “In truth, I was able to achieve my goal of creating a stronger bloodline with the American Pit Bull Terrier, but no one was willing to pay for the quality of the animal.”

A period of rest would settle upon Keith, and he took a ten-year break from the breeding business. As fate would have it, his love for dogs brought him back. “I was disappointed that in all that time, I hadn’t succeeded in helping change people’s perspective of the Pit Bull. I had to realize that I was only one person. I could only do so much.” Keith shared. “I wanted to give breeding another try because I loved what I did.” This time, he ensured everything would be in place to make his breeding business successful, which involved finding the right dog.

The time arrived when Keith was ready to resume breeding. He had a specific breed in mind. After investing so much into breeding the American Pit Bull and not getting a satisfying return on his investment, his focus changed to another breed of dog. “This time, I had done my research and set my sights on the Presa Canario,” he says.

The Perro de Presa Canario is described as a strong-willed, confident, yet calm breed. It has an excellent reputation for being obedient and docile but suspicious of strangers. Keith says their nature offers a commercial appeal the average dog lover wants. Amazingly, in his effort to procure the Presa Canario, he was redirected when a friend introduced him to the Cane Corso. “I had a lead on a Presa Canario, but it fell through,” Keith explained, “Then, one of my friends, Allen Holmes, called me and enlightened me about the Cane Corso breed. He owned two of them, and he sent me a video, and I was sold.”

Pictured above is Jefe “The Boss”

Pictured below are members of the pack

Because of the strength and dominance the Cane Corso is born with, potential breeders are encouraged to do their homework. According to the American Kennel Club, at almost 28 inches tall and sometimes weighing more than one hundred pounds, the Corso, with their large heads and rippling muscles, project an imposing and intimidating image. The animal is said to look and think the way a bodyguard would. The breed is intelligent, loyal, and eager to please, yet it can be willful and leave the owner wondering who is the master. For this reason, it’s recommended that breeders and owners understand that it is essential to establish dominance early with regular training.

“I was told that if I was serious about breeding these dogs, I needed to do about two years of research and preparation,” Keith says. After completing his research, Keith knew he had found his breed. In 2020, he launched his new breeding business, Siler’s Cane Corso’s, and hasn’t looked back.

Again, Keith loves all dogs, regardless of breed, and his love for the Corso is authentically genuine. He says, “Despite their reputation for being strong-willed and sensitive, these animals are so majestic and intelligent that training them is easy. I now have eight in my kennel, and people are amazed at how well-behaved they are.”

Keith is taking steps to build the reputation needed to be seen as a serious contender in the Corso community. “I have secured my breeder’s license and Kennel number. I have also entered several dog shows to get our name out there. My ultimate goal is to make breeding the Corso my only source of income. That’s just how much I love working with these dogs,” Keith shares. He also plans to help potential owners by educating them about the importance of continuing and maintaining the lifelong training the Corso requires. “Right now, I breed them, but I plan to expand my Kennel’s services and assist people with training.”

As a breeder, Keith must possess a great amount of attention to detail. “Because this breed is so exclusive, sometimes the cost for purchase can be prohibitive. So, I am careful about who I sell the dogs to. I need them to understand the investment they are making when they purchase one of my Cane Corsos,” he says.

As Keith continues to build the Siler Cane Corso brand, he is concerned about how his efforts will benefit the Cane Corso breed’s longevity. “Just like the American Pit Bull, I want to bring more awareness to the Cane Corso breed. I want to be intentional about breeding and create something that will continue its bloodline,” he says. These are the true words of a breeder and natural lover of all dogs.

Please contact Keith Siler to learn more about Siler’s Cane Corso’s.

Pictured above with Keith is Adonis

Keith Siler - Siler’s Cane Corso’s

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, please visit their website.

www.valleybrookoutreach.org h

Treat Yourself To A Hot Stone Massage in 2024

Information Provided by Sarah Watson - Healing Medical & Therapeutic Massage

All massages generally fall under the alternative medicine umbrella. They’re becoming a popular complementary therapy for many conditions. A Hot Stone Massage is one of those therapies. Also know as “Heated Stones,” these massages are very beneficial to someone who needs pain management for achy, tense muscles and stiff joints. We have listed some of the many advantages that a Heated Stone Massage offers. Please enjoy!

Helps Relieve Muscle Tension and Pain

Heat is a great way to ease muscle tension and pain. The heat of the stones relaxes the muscles, while the weight provides the right amount of pressure to relieve unwanted pain. It helps increase blood flow to the affected area(s), which improves healing. It may also reduce muscle spasms, increase flexibility and range of motion, and alleviate symptoms of autoimmune diseases such as Fibromyalgia and Rheumatoid arthritis. 1

Reduces Stress and Anxiety Promotes Sleep

Massage therapy can be effective for stress relief. Adding hot stones to your session takes it a step further. The combination of heat and pressure releases a hormone called endorphins, which is responsible for reducing stress and improving your mood.

2 3

Massage is thought to help you enjoy more restorative sleep, although it’s not completely understood why, but getting a back rub helps promote relaxation and sleep. Hot stones can increase your melatonin (sleep hormone) production since the stones deeply enhance the body’s relaxation response.

There are other benefits, such as decreasing cancer symptoms and boosting your immunity. However, you must also consider the contradictions as well. If you experience loss of sensation, take certain medications, have a skin condition, or just recently had surgery, getting a Hot Stone Massage might not be the ideal therapy for you. Be sure to consult with your doctor first if you have any medical condition(s) that make you unsure if this therapy will benefit your well-being.

I Am She Girls Mentoring

By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by Vanessa R. Caswell

Vanessa Caswell-Rodgers of Memphis, TN, is a woman of faith, resilience, and abundant possibilities. She is the founder of I Am She Girls Mentoring, a nonprofit organization that assists young girls between the ages of (8-18) in achieving their best despite challenges they may face. Her organization also helps these young ladies deal with childhood trauma, drug abuse, peer pressure, homelessness, and low self-esteem. I Am She Girls Mentoring partners with other organizations and schools (including principals and counselors) to provide the best plan that meets the needs of the youth. Presently, Vanessa mentors students and works with three schools in the Frayser community of Memphis.

“I Am She mentors young women by reminding all Queens who they are and how to display and portray the beauty within,” Vanessa says. “We offer various classes and workshops, including etiquette, self-esteem, self-confidence, and character building. Furthermore, we help our Queens set goals and discover their purpose.”

Vanessa was raised by her grandparents in what she describes as a large family setting. Family is essential to Vanessa. She is the sibling of a twin sister and has many other brothers and sisters. She shares her life with her husband, Eric Rogers.

Vanessa graduated from Memphis Tech High School in 1985. She also completed her studies at Stage One Hair School, Shelby State College, and Tennessee State University. She is also a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority.

Serving her community is something that Vanessa is honored to do, and she accepts it with a great deal of responsibility. She shares, “I started serving my community in 2017 by working with my brother’s organization, Legacy Of Legends. I helped by providing wrap-around services to many children and their families. From then on, I’ve been serving and supporting other nonprofit organizations.”

Vanessa says, “I founded I Am She after realizing my passion and purpose for mentoring women in navigating difficult situations and pushing them to pursue their dreams and goals. I was once a woman with low self-esteem, but I learned to overcome my obstacles, stand tall, and tell my story while inspiring others.”

While Vanessa serves as the Executive Director, the success of I Am She Girls Mentoring Memphis is made possible with the dedication of team members including Tiara Caswell, Allyson Jackson, Valerie Dodson, Mary Jones, Sharon Walker, Betty Lewis, Sylvia Walker, Eric Rodgers, Serita Harris, Miesha Yelder, Maudie Wilson, and Lakevia Henderson, a Junior Mentor. The Board Members of I Am She are Alfred Garrett, Elaine Baldwin, Janet Keys, Tamera Walker Tuggle, Lora Fowler, Jim Ward, and Angela Ellis.

More than anything, what Vanessa says she loves most about what she does is observing lives transformed by way of her organization. She states she is inspired by the opportunity to love on broken young ladies and help them become the best version of themselves. “Following in the footsteps of my young brother, who went from being a typical young man to becoming a family man and man of God, has impacted my life more than anything,” Vanessa said.

It is obvious Vanessa has a huge heart to serve. Leading a nonprofit that focuses on meeting the needs of young girls requires compassion and patience. Being available for others is essential and is something Vanessa had to learn to balance. “I often am asked to help, but I had to learn that saying no is OK,” she says. “My advice to others who may follow in my footsteps is to have patience and faith and surround yourself with like-minded individuals.”

Moving forward, Vanessa says she plans to continue growing her program and acquire transportation vans. Having these vehicles will allow the young ladies she serves to see other areas out of their environment and expose them to life-changing events. To learn more about I Am She Girls Mentoring, please visit their website.

www.iamshememphis.org h

Terrell Steward

Building Up The Small Business Community of Chicago

By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by Terrell Bernard Steward

Terrell Bernard Steward of Chicago, IL, describes himself as a selfless person who finds enjoyment in serving others.

Terrell is a graduate of Chicago Vocational High School in Chicago and later attended Northern Illinois University. His learning was interrupted as he was required to care for his mother, who became ill while he was a student.

Today, Terell is the owner of Bernard Terrell’s Cigar Shop, which is located in downtown Chicago. He uses his business venue to give other aspiring entrepreneurs and business owners a place to showcase and promote their talents, products, and services. Some things that take place at his shop are small business events, pop-up shops, acoustic jazz sets, stepping classes, and more. “We want to bring a variety of services and opportunities to members of our business community,” he shares.

Bernard says the love for his community is entrenched in his upbringing in Chicago. “I am a native of Chicago, and I have seen firsthand the things that happen here. Because I am aware of what our community lacks, I also understand the needed change. I wanted to create a hub for our community, a positive place where people would come and enjoy themselves and also benefit from being here,” he says.

Another program that takes place there is a ManTo-Man event, which is held every month. Terrell says these sessions are designed to give men a platform to open up and talk about what matters to us and what affects us. “Men look forward to these sessions. There aren’t any pre-planned topics, and everything is organic. There is no judgment either. We create a place where men can feel comfortable to talk.”

“I have learned to just be myself and allow people to get to know me and who I truly am. You may have a good product, but when you can sell your personality, people will buy into you.”

Terrell Steward

Every month, Terrell hosts an acoustic soul set called “Acoustic Sundays”. These are intimate settings between artists and acoustic players. Neosoul, Jazz, and old-school music are played, and these events average about 25 people in attendance. During their stepping classes, they bring in a stepping instructor who conducts classes for two hours. “Everything we do, we try to bring a smooth and grown vibe to the place,” he says.

Each quarter, Terrell hosts a “business refresh” that caters to the needs and interests of small business owners. During these classes, business owners can refresh their business plans and refocus on what they’re doing in an environment surrounded by other entrepreneurs.

Terrell has formed partnerships in the Chicago business community with Terrell Scott Sr. with Bronzeville Watch Company and Robiar Smith with R. B. Pest Solutions. He also hosts an annual Cigars In The Park event where he works with small businesses as vendors. Having these partnerships is beneficial to everyone in the small business community, he says.

Terrell says his vision and drive are connected to his genuine love of people. “I have always been a people person. I have been a doorman for over fifteen years. I believe my interest to serve others comes naturally,” he says.

Like most business owners, Terrell has faced many challenges. Still, he remains determined to fulfill his purpose. “Getting consumers in the doors has been challenging. Everyone is not going to believe in your vision. I have learned to just be myself and allow people to get to know me and who I truly am. You may have a good product, but when you can sell your personality, people will buy into you. That defeats half of the battle,” Terrell shares. He has faced these challenges by getting out more into his community and connecting with his prospective clients. He has become more personable and marketable, and it has paid off.

Looking ahead, Terrell plans to continue educating others about his brand and business and find ways to give back to other business owners in his community. For small business owners who have products and services and are looking for ways to connect with others like you, Terrell offers his services. He also offers advice to those who may follow a path similar to the one he has is very direct. “Be passionate and learn all that you can about your craft. If it is your calling, you must work towards being the very best at it. Never be afraid to learn every day, research, and do your due diligence.”

To learn more about Terrell Bernard Steward, please contact him directly.

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“Love is the only force capable of transforming an enemy to a friend.”

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Mecca Causey

The son of Ryan Causey and Nijalon Jackson-Causey

Denise Lee Broom Brush Tea Co.

By Terry L. Watson

Denise Lee of Phoenix, AZ, knew as a young girl what her purpose in life would involve: Teas. She says, “Teas were my purpose all along; I just didn’t know. As a young girl, my mom had her garden, and I loved rushing home from school to see what was growing. I have always loved plants, and when my hands are in the dirt, it’s a connection that feels right.”

Denise is the daughter of Carrie Hamilton (Parker) and was given a gift from an ancestor to create herbal medicine. As a child, she attended Jorgenson Elementary and grew up in South Phoenix. In her mother’s garden, Denise developed a love of plants and teas.

Today, Denise is the owner of Broom Brush Teas. “The name Broom Bush is mentioned in Ezekiel in the bible. If you read Bush Medicine of the Bahamas, you will learn about this bush. Another name for this herb in the Bahamas is seaside thyme. They use the leafy stems or the entire plant. The Broom Bush is used to cure jaundice and failed liver. It also must be administered by a Bush Doctor,” she says. “I don’t use this in any of my teas, but my dream is to become a master Bush Doctor and work with this bush. It’s very powerful.”

Photos Provided by Denise Lee

With her company, Denise offers consultations regarding herbal teas to aid in the body’s ability to heal itself from different alignments. She also sells herbal teas for individuals who choose a holistic lifestyle. “The first tea that I created was the Khealing Tea. It was during the onset of Covid 19. It was very effective and sought after during that period mainly due to the 43 immunity-boosting herbs it possesses,” she says.

The journey of starting her company began for Denise many years ago. It was in 2014 and was during that time that her mother passed away. Denise and her siblings were cleaning out her mom’s home when they came across a book filled with herbs. Denise chose to read it. “When COVID hit, something told me to get that book. I took all the herbs that support immunity and created the Khealing Tea. I passed this tea out to family and friends. A family member had a friend get sick, and she dropped the tea at the doorstep of their home. The family took the tea and was over COVID in four days. They later called me because their aunt ended up in the hospital with COVID. They took the tea to the hospital and gave it to her daily, and she was home by the end of the week. Later, someone posted my address on Facebook, calling my tea the COVID Killer, and people started coming to my house for it. I later asked if they could take my address down and meet me at the Laveen Farmers Market to get the tea. At this point, I didn’t have a business; I was only selling the Khealing Tea for $15. I didn’t understand that making it cost me more than $15, so I was losing money. The tea was selling so fast, and I called my sister and asked her for money. She wanted to know if what I was doing was a hobby or a business. If I would make it a business, she would help, and that is how I started Broom Bush Tea,” Denise says.

Denise shares that her teas are designed for the person who is sick of the adverse side effects of medicine and is willing to lose weight, eat better, exercise, and drink herbal teas. “My teas are created to inspire the healing journey, giving the power back to the person and the earth,” she says.

When asked what she loves most about what she does, Denise says it is being available for her customers. “I love it when my customers visit the Farmers Market and share their healing stories with me after taking my teas. Sometimes, I am amazed by how fast they work. I recall one customer whose husband previously had testicle cancer. She had been trying to have another baby with her husband for years without success. The doctors said her husband’s sperm count was low and IVF would be the route path to take. I sold them my “His All Nighter Tea” and “IVF Tea”. The customer came back to the market three months later and shared they were expecting. I was in shock that the teas worked that fast. God gives us plants that have been on the Earth longer than man. Plants heal and they heal quickly. Like a dying plant, if you give it water and sunlight, it will sprout a green leaf out of nowhere, healing itself and bringing new leaves quickly,” Denise says.

Building her business has been challenging, and having the capital to sustain its growth is one that Denise has faced head-on. Still, she is resilient and committed to helping others with her teas. Her advice to other aspiring entrepreneurs is to start by structuring your business properly, studying long and hard, and ensuring you are committed to your work. Even when the money isn’t there, you have to love what you’re doing.

Looking ahead, Denise dreams of making her teas accessible to others in stores such as Sprouts. “I have a dream to get my teas in Sprouts, even if it’s just the Sprouts in my neighborhood,” she says. “I would also like to get my teas in other stores such as AJ’s, Walgreens, and CVS. More than anything, I plan to continue to listen to my community and provide highquality products to support a healthy lifestyle,” she says.

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.

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. 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.

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.

Broderick Williams

Emery Sumberlin III

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.

www.goldlinkbeardco.com h

Jazley Trosuser

Equipping Youth With Tools To Succeed

By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by Jazzley Trouser

While the city of Detroit, MI, is well known for being an automobile powerhouse and for having a community of resilient and determined citizens, there are some other things happening that are worthy of sharing. Meet Jazley Trouser.

Jazley Trouser, a Detroit native, is the pioneer and organizer behind Life After Care (L.A.C.), a nonprofit organization that focuses on meeting the needs of foster youth by providing fundamental abilities to develop versatile properties and support. Through a 26-week educational program on central life skills, students have significantly improved in financial literacy, character, professional engagement, culinary expressions/well-being/cleanliness, mental care, and social skills. Jazley says, “If a youngster has a rich and varied foundation from varying backgrounds joined with proficient encounters, a kid is knowledgeable in context and capacity.”

The vision for Life After Care (L.A.C.) was birthed after Jazley encountered direct holes in the childcare framework. “I committed to utilizing my encounters to execute a program that would everlastingly steer youth improvement. The ‘L.A.C.’ program was established in 2021 in light of my expert information as a young, trained professional with previous cultivated care encounters. I chose to create a program with volunteers from the local area, a component that helped me thrive as a kid.”

For the most part, Jazley has constructed her life around serving others. Her love and commitment to serving are connected to her upbringing, and L.A.C. gives her a platform to make a positive impact in the lives of others.

“My insight as a mother and the unconditional love I have for others has permitted me to fulfill the neglected areas many foster youth experience.”

She says, “In the wake of losing my mom to cancer early on, I lived with a drugdependent father during probably the most crucial seasons of young adolescence. The unbelievable conditions prompted me to experience childhood in the foster care framework. Throughout many transitional years, a village of people who wanted to see me succeed supported me as best they could. I earned an associate’s degree in business administration and gained experience in various fields. After having my daughter and recognizing the holes foster care presented me in my upbringing, I knew it was a matter of time before my passion, experience, and will to make an impact would align. My insight as a mother and the unconditional love I have for others has permitted me to fulfill the neglected areas many foster youth experience. My lived and shared encounters have birthed an unquestionable association that separates me from anybody in the field of educating and supporting foster youth. Inside a defective framework, I saw a chance to give others the fundamental abilities I frantically needed while in foster care. Now, I battle for change in how foster youth are considered, educated, supported, acknowledged, and loved.”

Jazley says she loves teaching and pushing for foster youth who need a voice and a stage. She does this utilizing the assets and comprehension of the Detroit community. Through her work, youth are heard, seen, and outfitted with what they need to survive and ensure they are not anchored to their conditions and traumas.

Helping others isn’t a simple task. To be quite honest, it can be quite challenging. Jazley says that intruding on any framework with change accompanies a couple of knocks here and there. She adds that Life After Care, a ‘framework transformer,’ is entrusted with distinguishing tricky regions and positively affecting all angels. In doing so, her organization is challenged with informing its students and setting a solid foundation for their future. L.A.C. has managed these challenges by remaining focused and standing firm regarding the needs of those it serves.

Moving forward, Jazley desires to continue to build a program that will persevere. “To accomplish this, we must mix the organization with crucial standards of ethics and values. By focusing on integrity in all we do, I am confident our program will flourish while influencing and cultivating youth long into the future,” she says.

www.lifeaftercare.org h

“Demhaj

Mary Kay