Nov./Dec. 2024 Vol. 9 Issue 10
Elois LettleyOccasions II
God Doesn’t Expect For You To Do it All
A
Letter From The Editor
There Are No If, Ands, Or Buts About It!
A Letter from the Editor
Regardless of what anyone else says, I am a natural introvert. Amazingly, I publish a magazine and talk to people, many of who are strangers, and yet I find comfort in not saying anything. However, God often creates scenarios that push me out of my comfort zone. Whether He calls for me to speak to a group of young minds or even a large audience, with obedience, I must meet the assignment. I appreciate each opportunity as they have opened my mind to accepting the assistance for my destiny.
What if tomorrow didn’t arrive? All of your plans, hopes and dreams wouldn’t have a street to park on. What if everything that you decided to put off until tomorrow never happened? There would be no reason to save for a rainy day, and you could spare someone the trouble of making promises. What if your last opportunity seemingly expired today? What would you do?
Ask anyone who really knows me, and they will tell you that I am someone who tries to do a lot on my own. I don’t know why; maybe it has something to do with the way my brain is programmed. Yet, with managing the assignment of the company I run, God has frequently reminded me that He doesn’t expect me to do it all by myself.
I’ve been told that I often seem like I do too much. Honestly, I feel like I am not doing enough and I’m a firm believer in knowing that God wouldn’t put anything on me that I couldn’t handle. I sometimes wonder how life would be if I chose to sit idle and accept what it presented to me. I have found that to be very boring. In my opinion, opportunity is a blessing that isn’t afforded to everyone. A challenge to me is an adventure. What is the worst that can happen? If I do nothing, I fail, and if I try I don’t, but instead learn something new about myself. Relinquish your pride and in return acquire life.
While the capability of what I can do is extensive, the limits of where I am able to take the messages and voices of my community are far out of my reach. A community is only as strong as the input and participation that each member offers. The beauty in the message that God intends to bring forth is a unifying one, and I only hope that I do my part to persuade and inspire others in their journey.
The best advice ever given to me happened when someone told me to make my tomorrow happen today. In doing so I have pressed my way through doors with a key that only hope provided. I have also learned the difference between what God blesses me with and what life can burden me with as well. I compare it to knowing when to be confident and when to be quiet, because someone may get it confused with being arrogant.
God has planted gifts in all of us. My gifts are mine, and whenever I am able to cross paths with others who share a similar passion, I receive that as God expects more to be done. If you see me working alone, don’t mnd me, just know that I am actually trying to find the next opportunity to connect my gifts with others.
Make you tomorrow happen today, but most importantly make it count. Life is but a whisper and we must put ourselves in a position to hear what it is telling us.
Terry L. Watson
Terry L. Watson Editor/Founder
www.huamimagazine.com
General Inquiries
terry.editor@gmail.com (336)340-7844
General Inquiries terry.editor@yahoo.com Mykel Media Company LLC Greensboro, NC 2024 All Rights Reserved
Terry
Watson
Charlotte, NC
Honoring Those Who Lead Huami Magazine Community Awards
Winston Salem, NC
Partnering With Cisco
Winston Salem State University
Greensboro, NC
Seventeen Year Celebration
Becoming A Caregiver
She has goals to build up her community. Learn more about who she is and what she is doing.
Huntsville, AL
He is Huami Magazine’s Cutest Baby. Introducing one beautiful baby. He name is Silas Cade Gibson.
Lifestyle International Realty Louv and Dez
Stephens Named New Guilford County Schools Chief of Staff
Dr. Sonya Stephens has been named Chief of Staff for Guilford County Schools (GCS), following a four-month period as interim Chief of Staff.
gcschoolsnc
#GCSUpdates | Dr. Sonya
As chief of staff, she will work closely with Superintendent Dr. Whitney Oakley on strategic projects, policy development, governmental relations and other district objectives.
Stephens has been named Chief of Staff for Guilford County Schools, following a four-month period as interim Chief of Staff.
“As a member of my cabinet, Dr. Stephens has proven to be a trusted advisor with an insightful point of view,” says Oakley. “I value her data-driven focus and understanding of the complex issues we face in public education.”
As chief of staff, she will work closely with Superintendent Dr. Whitney Oakley on strategic projects, policy development, governmental relations and other district objectives.
Stephens previously served as the district’s Chief Performance Officer for three years. In that role, she oversaw state assessments, data analytics, student information, research, reporting and evaluation. She spent seven years as senior director of school accountability and six years as a data trainer with Wake County Public School System.
Liked by and 102 others ms.mnm_gso 2 days ago
Stephens holds a bachelor’s degree in communications from University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, a master’s degree in counselor education from North Carolina A&T State University and a doctoral degree in leadership for learning and service from Cardinal Stritch University. She also completed a strategic data project fellowship with Harvard University.
City of Greensboro Hosts Windsor Chavis
Nocho Community Complex Groundbreaking Ceremony
The City of Greensboro invites the community to celebrate the Windsor Chavis Nocho Community Complex groundbreaking from 11 am to 1 pm, Saturday, November 23, at the Windsor Recreation Center, 1601 E. Gate City Blvd. In addition to a groundbreaking ceremony, there will be project information available.
The celebration will include a hot beverage and dessert bar, along with the Greensboro Police Department Grill Team serving burgers and hot dogs. The Greensboro Public Library will provide art engagement activities for children, and the Greensboro History Museum will be collecting community memories.
The new Windsor Chavis Nocho Community Complex is a unique project that combines all the features of a public library, recreation center, and park into a transformative destination that will also provide information and services from community partners. The 65,000-square-foot building will be a space with diverse, open and enclosed rooms for events, meetings, and programs.
https://www instagram com/gcschoolsnc/p/DCkTl0IT-6h/ 1/2
This project was made possible by support and funding from the City of Greensboro, Guilford County, Cone Health, Public Art Endowment, and Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership. For more information visit the City of Greensboro.
11/22/24,
WSSU Announces Strategic Alliance With Global Tech Leader Cisco
Winston-Salem State University has formed a groundbreaking alliance with Cisco, a global technology leader, that will enhance student employability, bolster faculty and staff resources, and strengthen the university’s infrastructure.
The transformative agreement was officially signed Oct. 29 during an on-campus ceremony and marks a pivotal step forward for WSSU to benefit from Cisco’s industry-leading solutions in networking, telecommunications and security, ensuring that the university is on the cutting edge of digital innovation in higher education.
Cisco has committed a $2.7 million investment in cybersecurity services and software over the next five years that will significantly strengthen the university’s cybersecurity framework, said WSSU Chancellor Bonita Brown.
The most exciting aspect of this alliance, however, extends beyond infrastructure, Brown said. “It’s also a direct investment in our academic programs. Through Cisco’s Networking Academy, our students will gain practical hands-on experiences, preparing them for the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) certification.”
The CCNA certification is an industry-recognized credential that can significantly boost graduates’ earning potential and elevate their social mobility.
“This is a game changer for our students,” Brown said. “Graduating armed with this certification catapults their marketability. They could earn $30,000 more than their peers with this certification.”
Raisha Cobb, WSSU’s associate provost and chief information officer, echoed this statement, emphasizing the rare opportunity this partnership offers. When she was in college, she did not have access to hands-on experience.
“This certification will give our students a competitive advantage,” Cobb said.
The beauty of the Networking Academy is that the university teaches great theory, and the academy provides the hands-on experience, said Kelly Caudle, program director at Cisco Academy Support Center.
“You need to be able to do both and the job market loves it,” Caudle said. “We want Winston-Salem State University students to have their CCNA when they leave here with their four-year degree. That way, they’re Cisco eligible.”
Through its Social Justice Action 8 Initiative, Cisco’s partnership also provides a loan program for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) students in need; assistance to HBCUs for National Institute of Standards and Technology Assessment compliance; scholarships for instructors; free certification exam vouchers for students; and advanced training opportunities for IT staff.
“One of the goals of my administration is to pursue strategic collaborations that distinguish us in the higher education ecosystem,” Brown said. “This partnership with Cisco does just that. We’re thrilled to welcome Cisco into our ‘Ramily.’ Because of this venture with Cisco, our students will be prepared, our faculty will be poised, and our staff will be positioned for the rapidly growing field of technology.”
About Cisco: Cisco (NASDAQ: CSCO) is the worldwide technology leader that securely connects everything to make anything possible. Our purpose is to power an inclusive future for all by helping our customers reimagine their applications, power hybrid work, secure their enterprise, transform their infrastructure, and meet their sustainability goals. Discover more on The Newsroom and follow us on X at @Cisco.
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Information provided by WSSU Online
Elois LettleyOccasions II
By DorJea’ McClammey
Photos by TMF Photography
For nearly 30 years, Elois Lettley has opened Occasions Restaurant Southern Cuisine, Caterer & Event Center to the public. While eating habits and food cultures have evolved during this period, one thing that has remained constant is her commitment to satisfying the taste buds of her customers. Whether it be fried chicken or fish, cornbread, homemade mac and cheese, turnip greens, ox tails, and more, Elois has delivered, and the Triad community appreciates it.
“I think one of the reasons we’ve been able to stay here is because we kept the country cooking aspect. There were a lot of people in the area who wanted that, and we’ve been able to provide it at an affordable rate continuously,” Elois shares. There is also a soul food buffet on Friday nights that offers southern delicacies such as chitterlings, pig feet, and more. “We offer a great blend of food that may not be available at a lot of other restaurants in the area.”
Born and raised in Caswell County, North Carolina, Elois grew up watching her mother and grandmother cook for their large family. She also helped them make all types of southern delicacies. “My mother was an excellent cook with 12 children,” she says. It wasn’t until she took her talents to New York that she tried her hand in the food industry. Elois worked at The Muffin Burger, which gave her restaurant experience and ultimately encouraged her to open a restaurant in North Carolina.
I think one of the reasons we’ve been able to stay here is because we kept the country cooking aspect. There were a lot of people in the area who wanted that, and we’ve been able to provide it at an affordable rate continuously.
Therearealotofchallengesthatcomewithrunningmybusiness,andthe hardestonehasbeenscalingmymotherandgrandmother’srecipesfromserving 20peopleto400peoplewithoutcompromisingtheintegrityofthem.
When Elois first brought up the idea of opening her own restaurant, many of her family and friends couldn’t see the vision. She shares they believed that she couldn’t do it or said that she wouldn’t last six months. Elois didn’t let that stop her. She turned that discouragement into drive and officially opened Occasions Restaurant Southern Cuisine on February 2nd, 1997. She remembers about 30 people showing up that day and recalls how discouraging that was for her. “I can’t make it, not like this,” is what she said. However, just like a good meal can fill you up, word of her amazing cooking filled the community, and now, 28 years later, she continues to serve good southern cooking to hundreds daily.
In 1998, Elois Lettley took over Occasions II Catering in Burlington. Despite having a penchant for cooking great meals, Lettley said she was nervous because she had never done something of quite a magnitude. “I started this with no restaurant experience,” Lettley said. “I was working in a hospital, and a friend of mine knew I had a passion for cooking, so he asked if I would lease a building and start this business. I didn’t know what to expect going in, but I’m still here.”
It’s obvious that Elois loves what she does; if not, she may not have been able to withstand the challenges of entrepreneurship. She adds, “There are a lot of challenges that come with running my business, and the hardest one has been scaling my mother and grandmother’s recipes from serving 20 people to 400 people without compromising the integrity of them. Throughout the years, I have also tried out different recipes of my own and let my family test them first before I put them on the menu.”
Lettley has enjoyed sharing her life with George, her husband of 58 years. Ironically, they were both in New York when they met. They were married in 1966 there, and after their two children, Fraizer and Gregory, were born, a move back to the Tar Heel State was in the cards. “We came back to North Carolina to raise our children as it made more sense. I got a job working at a bank and later worked in the hospital before starting the restaurant,” she says.
Pictured with Elois is her husband of 58 years, George.
While her husband has been by her side since the beginning, Elois restaurant has had only one other consistent employee, Sonya Blakeney, who has been on board for 24 years. Even more, Elois shares how thankful she is for those who have come and gone, as it has taught her how to be resilient and how to work with different personalities.
As family traditions occur in the Triad, Occasions has found itself as a constant stopping place for them to gather. Elois says, “I remember the first Sunday we opened up, there were only 30 people who came. I didn’t know what to make of it. Fast forward to today, and there’s an average of about 500 people who come in. There have also been some Sundays where we’ll seat about 800 people. On holidays such as Mother’s Day, the number of patrons has grown to nearly 1,000.” Elois and her team are obviously doing something right. As mentioned, Occasions II is a full-service restaurant and caterer. They offer a unique dining experience for various events, including banquets, weddings, wedding receptions, corporate events, and dinners and dances. The Catering To Go options include Baked Chicken, Baked Pork Chops, BBQ Chicken, BBQ Pork Ribs, Country Style Steak, Chicken and Dumplings, Sir Loin Beef Tips, Spaghetti and Meatballs, and much more. Also, remember to add a delicious dessert to your menu, as their options include Apple Cobbler, Cheesecake, Chocolate Pecan Pie, Coconut Pie, Double Chocolate German Chocolate Cake, Red Velvet Cake, and more.
By her love and sharing of it through food, Elois has become a staple in her community. When asked what keeps her going despite all of the challenges she has faced, she honestly couldn’t say. “I’m 77 years old, and I still think about retiring,” she states. Whenever that thought arises, she says her community always encourages her to keep going.
As her future unfolds, Elois hopes to pass the baton of Occasions on to someone with the same passion and desire for serving others. For those looking to follow in her footsteps, Elois’ advice is to be fair with everyone; this includes the customers and employees. By doing that, she believes that you have the opportunity to go a long way. “Occasions is where every event is special,” Elois says.
Occasions II Catering is open from Tuesday through Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., with a special soul food buffet from 5:30 to 9 p.m. on Friday evenings. On Sunday, the restaurant is open from 11:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
LOUV & DEZ
Lifestyle International Realty, a fast-growing and innovative real estate brokerage, proudly announces the grand opening of its new office in the heart of Greensboro, located at 808 Summit Ave. This expansion into the Triad region represents a key milestone in the company’s ongoing growth and commitment to better serve the Greensboro community.
The public and media were invited to attend the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony held on November 1, 2024 at their new office. Immediately following, there was Grand Opening Celebration at The Quarter, 112 W Lewis St, Greensboro, NC. Attendees had the opportunity to meet the Lifestyle International Realty team, tour the office, and discover how the company is poised to revolutionize the real estate experience in the Triad region.
Leadership and Vision
The Greensboro office is led by a team of seasoned real estate professionals including CEO George Canciobello, Managing Partner Shawn Gerald, Managing Partner Wrenchel Stokes, Luxury Home Staging Specialist Dez Gerald, and Managing Partner Louv Ford. The company is committed to delivering exceptional real estate services and fostering meaningful community connections.
“We are incredibly excited to establish a presence in Greensboro,” said George Canciobello, CEO of Lifestyle International Realty. “Our team is passionate about helping individuals and families achieve their real estate dreams, and we look forward to contributing to the growth and prosperity of this wonderful community.”
More Than Just Real Estate
Lifestyle International Realty is not just a real estate brokerage; it is a lifestyle brand built on integrity, innovation, family, and community engagement. The company provides personalized service, expert guidance, and unwavering support throughout every client’s real estate journey.
Calling All Agents
Lifestyle International Realty is actively seeking passionate agents who want to grow in the industry and make a positive impact in the community. Managing Partner Shawn Gerald added, “We are looking for individuals who are eager to learn, dedicated to honing their skills, and committed to giving back to the community. We are here to dominate the real estate market.”
About Lifestyle International Realty
Lifestyle International Realty is a full-service real estate brokerage specializing in both residential and commercial properties. With a focus on integrity, innovation, and community engagement, the company is dedicated to helping clients achieve their real estate goals while living their best lives. At Lifestyle International Realty, it’s not just business—it’s a Lifestyle.
Information and Photos Provided by Louv Ford
Managing Partner
Lifestyle International Realty
Liaison@direalestatestaging.com 704-997-9539
DEZ GERALD, LHS, ASP
Meet Dez Gerald, your unparalleled business partner. With over 20+ years of experience and a Luxury Home Staging Specialist, recipient of the Top Individual Stager Award by the International Association of Home Staging Professionals and several Realtor Awards, Dez offers a level of expertise unmatched in the industry. She caters to a diverse clientele, including investors, and luxury buyers & sellers in various industries. Beyond her impressive track record, Dez is passionate about sustainability, infusing non-toxic living and sustainable products into her services, ensuring your well-being.
Dez’s global vision extends to the African Development Movement, where she’s marketing a 65,000-acre development in Ghana to address the country’s housing deficit and 400+ listings throughout Ghana. She is Partnered with the Top Real Estate Company in Ghana, E. Wells Realty & Consultancy and she’s changing lives on an international scale. Trust Dez Gerald of DI Real Estate & Staging, a Lifestyle International Realty Partner to turn your real estate dreams into a reality.
Contact her today and experience the difference passion, expertise, care and commitment can make in your real estate journey!
LOUV FORD
Louv (Love) Ford is a real estate professional with a proven track record of success in representing buyers, sellers, and investors. She is skilled at networking and building relationships, which allows her to open the line of communication between all parties involved in a real estate transaction. She is also experienced in managing projects and teams, which ensures that all aspects of a transaction are handled efficiently and effectively.
In her previous roles at Washington Mutual, Dun & Bradstreet, Wells Fargo, First Horizon, and a variety of small businesses, she has received multiple awards for her sales performance and her ability to build business credibility and creditworthiness. She is very confident that she can use her skills and experience to help you achieve your real estate goals.
Managing Partner
Lifestyle International Realty Liaison@direalestatestaging.com 336-471-4847
Laresa
THOMPSON & BOYD COMMUNICATIONS, LLC
By Terry L. Watson
When you think of someone who embodies joy, creativity, and a knack for connecting with people, Laresa Thompson undoubtedly comes to mind. She’s captured hearts with her infectious energy, love for storytelling, and dedication to shining a spotlight on organizations and businesses in her community through her business, Thompson and Boyd Communications, LLC (T&B).
T&B offers a variety of services such as media and public relations, on-camera and voiceover talent, media training, writing and more.
A true “Carolina” girl, Laresa Thompson was raised in Greensboro, NC, and earned a bachelor’s degree in journalism from North Carolina A&T State University. Throughout her career, Laresa has held a variety of roles, including serving as the Morning Co-Host at WCCB and as a Content Producer/Reporter for Neighborhood TV (NTV). Laresa also served as the spokesperson for Charlotte Amusement Park, Carowinds, and FORTUNE® 50 home improvement company Lowe’s. She’s also been featured in two Style Blueprint articles: “FACES of Charlotte” (2017) and “The Morning Routines of 11 Successful Charlotte Women“ (2017), and was recognized as one of the Top Women of Excellence by Radio One (2016).
Photos Provided by Todd Youngblood
For over 15 years, Laresa has enjoyed a career in the broadcast and communications industry. Her roots began in her hometown of Greensboro, NC at radio station, 102.1 JAMZ. She would later work at a local television station there, WFMY News 2, before working in Charlotte and working at WCNC-TV, a television station. Laresa would pause television and find her footing working in public relations and internal communications for several companies before returning to television. Leveraging the expertise she gained through years of experience across various businesses and organizations, she built her own brand, Thompson and Boyd Communications, LLC.
Always looking for unique ways of expressing her gift of communication, Laresa is also the owner of a popular yard sign business in the Charlotte and Greensboro areas, Yardy Cardy, LLC. Yardy Cardy provides customized lawn greetings and foam parties for residential and commercial clients.
Her passion for helping others has led her to take on many volunteer roles at various organizations, including Nations Ford Community Church, Rebuilding Together of the Carolinas, Dress for Success, the Battered Women’s Shelter, and Habitat for Humanity. She professes her love for the Charlotte community and continues to serve as an emcee or host for organizations with causes she is passionate about, including those with developmental and intellectual disabilities, as well as her alma mater.
Laresa shares that she is such a people person. She adds, “I always enjoy learning new things about people, a new store or restaurant, a company, whatever it may be. That curiosity is the reason I’m working in the field I’m in today. In many instances, when I am hired by a company, I am hired to represent them. To do that effectively, I must know who they are.”
Our were taught to go to college and get an education so you can get a good job and stay at that job until it’s time for you to parents retire... a way of thinking that was passed down to me.
Laresa credits her mother, Fannie Thompson, for having the most significant impact on her life. She says, “My parents divorced when I was very young, and my father died in a car crash a few years later when I was 11. That left my mother to raise three girls on her own, with the help of family, friends and church members. My mom was a schoolteacher, and she dedicated more than 30 years of her life to the classroom. While growing up, our parents were taught to go to college and get an education so you can get a good job and stay at that job until it’s time for you to retire… a way of thinking passed down to me. I don’t think there’s anything wrong with this mindset; however, I do believe there’s more to life, like owning your own business… that’s a good thing too. When I started my first business, my mom was concerned, as any parent should/would be. What happens if you don’t have any customers? How will you pay your bills? Those type of questions were real”, she laughs. “Today, it’s a different story and I know my mother sees what entrepreneurship offers and what I’m able to accomplish for my own company and not someone else’s.”
Being able to travel this journey with her mother makes it all worth it, Laresa says. “She is my number one cheerleader and has always encouraged and inspired me and reminded me of who I am and what I can achieve. She sent me a note via text message that read “Have you ever looked back at all of the things you’ve done? You should be proud of yourself”. To get a note like that from my mother lets me know that she understands it now. I often reference her note as a means to remind myself of all my achievements.”
When asked if there is anything that she would change about the way things have happened along her journey, Laresa says, “Honestly, I wouldn’t change anything. By doing so, it would mean that I wouldn’t be where I am or WHO I am today. I wouldn’t have learned so many lessons, even the ones I didn’t want to learn, but needed to go through.” Laresa says she’s glad she did have those challenging times. “You grow when you’re uncomfortable.”
Looking ahead, Laresa has plans to take her brands to higher heights. She also appreciates the opportunity to care for her mother and be there when she needs her.
Learn More About My Experience of Being A Caregiver For My Mother
By Terry L. Watson
CHAPTER SEVEN: The Measurement of Love for Mom
One of the hardest things I have experienced while caring for my mother was accepting the fact that she would forever be totally dependent on the care and assistance of others. For all of my life, I had been used to seeing her go, go, and go, and just like that, things changed. One Sunday morning, I stopped by my mother’s home to eat dinner, and the following day, I got a call that she had suffered a stroke. Things changed so fast.
Over the past eight years, I have slowly and stubbornly adapted to meeting my mother exactly where she is. Any success in my ability to adapt to these changes has been connected to my ability to find hope in her—I mean, our situation. Any opportunity that I have to make her smile, I have taken advantage of it, whether it be by saying something silly or reminding her of the things that I know she loves to hear. Seeing and feeling the joy in her smile has been therapeutic for me and her, I do believe.
For anyone who has experienced having a loved one suffer a stroke, one that was debilitating and disabling, you may understand the bucket of emotions that accompany it. My first response was to make life as normal as possible for my mother. I soon realized that would be mission impossible. My advice to others who may find themselves in this place is always to strive to make the most of each situation every day. On some days, my mother could pronounce her words more clearly than the day before. On other days, she seemed so drained from the effects of her brain injury that all she could do was rest. Regardless of what was presented, I had to find a way to prepare my mind to handle it. And I did.
When you truly love someone, the amount is impossible to quantify. It’s just love. My love for my mother is absolutely unconditional, and I am committed to being there for her needs for the rest of our days together. I have also found resolve in learning that she is really aware of my commitment to serving her, and she lets me know in her own way of appreciation.
I have been told that it’s not often that you find a man who cares for his mother as I do as a Caregiver. To be honest, I am surprised to learn that more are not showing up. I have a ton of memories, some great ones, of my mother before she suffered her stroke. However, the memories I have created while caring for her after the stroke are so much more meaningful. God has blessed me to be able to do something for someone that I feel like I owe the world to, and yet, they have never asked for anything in return. That is love. h
I decided to share my experience as a full-time caregiver for my mother to consult, console, and inform other families who may be going through a similar situation. As a son, caring for my mother never feels like work; if so, it is a labor of love. Please continue to follow this message, Becoming A Caregiver, in Huami Magazine. I hope that sharing my experience will help others. From one caregiver to the next, God Bless You!
Huami Magazine Community Awards 2025
Charlotte Marriott Center City - Charlotte, NC
We are coming to the Queen City of Charlotte, NC.
Please mark your calendars for June 7th, 2025, as the Huami Magazine Community Awards will take place at the Charlotte Marriott City Center. Following up on our first gala of 2023, we are excited for the opportunity to present Black Excellence from various parts of the Huami Magazine network, which covers more than 23 states around the country.
Community Leaders, Business Leaders, and NonProfit Organizations will be honored and recognized for the great work they have done and continue to do in their respective communities. There will also be some great speakers, good food, and entertainment. This a formal, black tie event, and one that you don’t want to miss.
The evening will begin with a Red Carpet Reception at 5:30 pm. The Gala Reception will start at 6:30pm
For more information, please call 336-340-7844. Seating is limited and group packages are available. Tickets are on sale and can be purchased at the link listed below. Sponsorship opportunities are also available. For sponsorship information, please send a detailed email to mykelmediaco@gmail.com h
www.read-huamimagazine.com/awards-gala-2025
Silas Cade Gibson
The son of Corey Gibson and S’Mia Davidson
Shonte Baltes
She Has Goals For Her Community
By Terry L. Watson
Shonte Baltes is the owner of Shonni B. Realty, which is powered by One Key Realty Brokerage.
Shonte describes herself as a full-fledged entrepreneur. Born in Kissimmee, Florida, Shonte has called Atmore, AL, home for the greater part of her life. “I have the luxury of having country roots with a global mindset,” she says. She completed her undergraduate degree from the University of Alabama, and is currently finishing her Doctoral degree in Leadership at Regent University.
Originally an aspiring publicist turned realtor, Shonte has chartered entrepreneurial waters for the last decade. She adds, “I am a believer in Christ and try to implement those principles in the way I do business. I love meeting new people and enjoy helping individuals reach their greatest potential.”
Shonte originally began as a makeup artist and later transitioned into real estate as an investor circa 2011. She says, “The vision to work in real estate came through prayer, coupled with an internal desire to be in real estate. I have had the privilege to be owner and operator of BonMercy Beauty Bar. In 2023, I became a full-time real estate investor. I was able to begin my first endeavors in real estate by partnering with my mom and we started with one contractor. We found our first foreclosure property moved strategically with one property at a time.”
More than anything, Shonte loves what she does. She says, “I have always desired to change the lives of people and found that providing integral experiences in home buying fulfilled that desire.” She also says that she finds inspiration in offering change to others. “I am inspired when evolution takes place. I am inspired when cities grow and when people grow. Whether it be through generational wealth or realizing the possibilities of life. I am inspired by seeing people succeed. No matter what that looks like. To see others excel inspires me to keep going. That takes the pain out of the process of entrepreneurship.”
Her life she says has been mostly impacted by God. “I know that sounds churchy and mystical, however God does not let me settle. For every new achievement, it becomes my new floor. God gives me a vision beyond what I comprehend at times. His standard for people is something I strive to produce daily.”
Moving forward, Shonte has her eyes set on doing greater things. “The goal is to build an enterprise. I ultimately want to build affordable housing for seniors and build communities. My long-term goal is to become a builder.”
Photos Provided by Shonte Baltes h
Sarah Miller Graham Drawers of Hope Resource Center
Information and Photos Provided by Sarah Miller Graham
Sarah Miller Graham is the daughter of Maggie Miller Price and the late Joe Frazier Miller. A lifelong resident of High Point, NC, Sarah has devoted much of her life to public service and education.
A graduate of T. Wingate Andrews High School in 1990, Sarah spent over 18 years working as a Deputy Clerk in the North Carolina Judicial System. Her passion for education led her back to school, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Human Relations from High Point University. Sarah is now an educator with Guilford County Schools and was a participant in High Point University’s Prepared Program, where she also earned a master’s degree in Elementary Education.
Sarah is an active and dedicated member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., and has been involved in numerous community organizations. These include the sorority’s EMBODI Male Mentoring Program, United Way’s African American Initiative, the Back to School Bash, and the Minority Achievers Teen Program with the Carl Chavis YMCA of High Point.
In addition to her work in education and community involvement, Sarah is the founder and CEO of Drawers of Hope Resource Center in High Point, NC. The center provides essential services such as free tutoring, a food pantry, a summer camp, and other resources to support at-risk youth and their families. Under Sarah’s leadership, Drawers of Hope has become a cornerstone of the community, offering a safe and supportive environment for those in need.
Sarah’s dedication to her community has not gone unnoticed. She was a nominee for Fox 8’s Remarkable Woman Award and received the Pillars of Fame Award from the Housing Authority in 2021. In 2022, she was nominated by the Chamber of Commerce for the Community Organization of the Year award.
Outside of her professional and community commitments, Sarah is a loving wife of 36 years to Derrick Graham Sr. mother of three and a proud grandmother of five. She has also mentored many young people, guiding them into adulthood, and is cherished for her nurturing spirit and tireless energy. Sarah’s infectious “go-getter” attitude and genuine care for others make her beloved by all who know her. As many would say, “To know her is to love her, and when she loves you, she loves you forever.”
