JAM MAGAZINE 2014

OFFOFF DADACLOCK CLOCK

WITH Linda “lJ” julien

J.A.M Magazine Table of Content

Editor’s Words………………………………………………………………..3 Word’s from the Publisher……………………………………………………4 Business and Technology……………………………………………………5-7 Music………………………………………………………………................8-9 Health and Wellness………………………………………………………....10-11 The Faashion Industry ………………………………………………………12-15 Law and Politics……………………………………………………………...18-19 Touching the World………………………………………………………….20-21 Feature Story……………………………………………………………….. ..24-25 Off da Clock………………………………………………………………......28-29 Interview on Demand……………………………………………………......30-31

JAM MAGAZINE “The Good News Magazine” J.A.M. Magazine is a contemporary publication that publicizes good news in urban society.

The goal of J.A.M. Magazine is to serve as a vessel informing people about motivational and life-changing principles. The magazine will cover a wide variety of information including, Arts and Entertainment, Sports, Business & Technology, News & Events including Inspirational Messages. The magazine has a commitment to profile important topics throughout the world with a positive platform. The reading will encourage and empower its readers.

EDITOR’S WORDS

MARTINE J. JOHNSON

Have you ever been in a place where you know your destination but don’t know how to navigate to that place? All you know is that you are on a journey and you are supposed to end up somewhere. For many of us it could be frustrating or it may even seem endless. Your current place is only a pit stop. You are wandering and wondering when is a good time to make your move. Your move could be a step towards financial freedom, better health, building a family, starting new career, growing your ministry, etc. At this point, anything is a reason to step out on faith. If the boss even looks at you funny or says anything wrong, you’re out the door. All it takes is that one button for someone to push.

But STOP! WAIT! You might have said a prayer but did you plan or prepare before pursuing?

You deserve the best. Whenever you are God-led to take a leap of faith it will be in decency and in order. However, one of the key components to success besides prayer is planning and preparation. It can make or break you. As the often quoted phrase states, “if you fail to plan, plan to fail.” It’s just that simple.

As you journey into to the pages of J.A.M. Magazine, it is my prayer that you are encouraged, edified and uplifted. Understand that greater miracles await those that expect and believe.

Your dreams are great but not too big that they cannot be achieved. Simply put, go for it and pursue your passion!

Until Next Time, Martine Joseph-Johnson Editor-In-Chief JAM Magazine

WORD’S FROM THE PUBLISHER Greetings in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Remember child of God that everything you face this day God has the power to get you through it.

Many people spend 90% of their days worrying about the issues of life and they spend 10% of their days praying. This day allow the peace of rule and reign in your life. Go on a prayer diet. Begin to make prayer apart of your daily spiritual nourishment. Remember when you pray God will send supernatural security guards to protect your heart and thoughts. The enemy will try to infiltrate your heart and mind to make you worry instead of putting your trust and peace in Jesus Christ. When you pray God will give you a peace that will blow your mind. Today pray for a MIND BLOWING Peace. God Bless You and have A Mind Blowing Day. With Love, Pastor L. G. Johnson Jr. Philippians 4:6-7In nothing be anxious; but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. 7 And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall guard your hearts and your thoughts in Christ Jesus.

By: Lorenzo G. Johnson, Jr. Do you have what it takes to enter a lucrative industry that accounted for almost half of the U.S. economic growth over the past few decades? Many people in the South Florida community have never thought of exploring the information technology industry.

A 2001 article from Berkley University stated, before the 1990’s IT interests were primarily for computer specialists; however, things change since the emergence of the internet. The IT profession was not only used to manipulate information but it became a way to communicate information.

“There is a digital divide in our communities in which you have socio-economic groups who don’t have access to technology,” said Leigh Hardaway, an information technology professor at Carlos Albizu University. “Therefore, it is time for more African Americans to close the gap of the digital divide in our communities and make an investment to become a part of the IT profession family,” Hardaway added.

Hardaway said that an IT entry level specialist makes $28,000 to $42,000 per year, an IT professional will make $46,000 to $109,000 per year, an IT expert will make $120,000 to $250,000 per year.

According to Salary.com, there are 3.3 million IT professionals in the United States and 15 million worldwide. continued...

Yul Allen, Florida Memorial University alumni, decided to take the path of information technology when he developed STEM Genius, an after school program that motivates and develop youth K-12 for careers in the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

Allen said there are diverse avenues individuals can take be a part of this lucrative industry. Trade schools and technical schools offer certifications such as Cisco Certification, Microsoft Certification, Network Certification, A+ Certification and Web design certification. These certifications can be acquired regardless of one’s educational or criminal background. After passing a certification examination within 6 to 9 months a person is eligible to work in the IT industry. Others can pursue a traditional four-year degree in information technology that gives an in depth understanding of all the diverse fields of the IT profession.

In most cases, IT college graduates receive a higher pay level than those who only obtain certifications.

Michael Herring, 31, IT professional at the University of Miami believes that information technology is a competitive field where there are a small number of African Americans. Conversely, Herring suggested that as the business market experiences growth, the demand for IT professionals will also increase.

“It is an industry made for individuals who are interested in expanding their knowledge to solve real-word problems with technology,” Herring said.

“The reason why I enjoy being an IT professional is because information technology and computer science is in everything,” Herring expressed.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that job prospects in information technology should be exceptional, with 17 percent growth from 2008 to 2018.

THE MUSIC FACTORY

D’MERIT

STARTED FROM THE BOTTOM AND ON HIS WAY TO THE TOP By: Martine Joseph-Johnson

D’Merit, an up and coming artist from Miami, Florida, strives from the bottom and is on his way to the top. He was raised in the inner city of Miami where he was raised by his single mother, Cassandra James-Harris. Since high school, D’Merit has never been a stranger to the spotlight.

As the star running-back football player of Miami Norland Senior High School, he then matriculated with a 4-year football scholarship to the University of Minnesota.

While playing football, D’Merit underwent a serious knee injury. The celebrated high school and college athlete also had a deep interest and talent in music. So, he moved back home to be closer to his family and completed his studies at Florida International University. Soon D’Merit found himself on a downward spiraling path when he learned that he was facing 9 felony charges, 3 of which carried life sentences. D’Merit stated, “I spent about a year in jail until God delivered me and all charges were dropped.”

The next chapter of D’Merit’s life consists of him pursuing his music and serving in ministry. He shared, “Though I was tempted to go back to football, I realized that God had even more in store for me. I answered the call from God and was ordained December 2006.”

Through exhilarating and thought provoking music, D’Merit uses his artistry to edify and empower listeners. When asked about the motivation behind his music, D’Merit shared, “My mission is to induce, excite, and inspire individuals to live out their God given purpose, first, in themselves, and ultimately the world.”

Although he previously experienced some major and minor setbacks, this artist was determined to rise above life’s challenges. In fact, D’Merit believes his destiny involves changing the world with revolutionizing music.

Health and Wellness SPOTLIGHT

Dr. Laquinta Wallace Hyppolite

Dr. Laquinta Wallace Hyppolite is a native Floridian born Bahamian decent, 39 years old, married, and a mother of two. She graduated from Miami Norland Senior High School in 1992; she then matriculated to Florida A&M University located in Tallahassee, FL and received her Doctorate Degree in Pharmacy April of 2000. Dr. Hyppolite has been an entrepreneur in the pharmacy industry for eleven years with seventeen years of experience. In her practice, she specializes in providing innovative pharmacy care through a variety of life enhancement programs that focus on health & wellness education, nutrition, and fitness. She has experience in pharmaceutical compounding, hospital pharmacy, community retail pharmacy, developing, managing, and consulting for independent pharmacies throughout her career.

Her accolades for her achievements in South Florida are: Chosen as one of the top twenty-five Most Prominent Black Business Women in South Florida featured in Network Miami Magazine (Summer 2005), Recognized in The Miami Times and The Miami Herald for hosting Health Fairs and Educational Seminars at various churches and schools in the communities of Dade and Broward Counties (2002-2008). She served as the health columnist for Saved Magazine (2007) and was awarded The Small Business of the Year 2007 for Royalty Drug & Pharmaceutical Care, Inc. by Jaycees, The United States Junior Chamber of Commerce in Miami Gardens.

Dr. Hyppolite serves through Healthy Meds Wellness Pharmacy & Customize Rx Care. Customize Rx Care orchestrates Dr. Hyppolite’s life enhancement programs that supports, educates, and aids in the personalize service provided through the pharmacy. Both entities are designed to fulfill the pharmaceutical need and service for all patients, clients, and practioners.

THE FASHION INDUSTRY Melissa Mitchell

In a world filled with glamour & glitz, media & mayhem, Melissa A. Mitchell has stood her ground as a non-profit and public relations aficionado. With a passion for youth empowerment, community awareness, and event planning, Melissa has paved the way for others by helping them realize their purpose and to follow their dreams.

Being the eldest of three children, she was naturally born a leader. Her leadership abilities, and savvy creativity have been the impetus for her recognition in honor societies, designation of youth event pioneer in the community, being featured in national media outlets, and being a role model to thousands of youth. Melissa shared, “In order to succeed in life, you have to fuel your passion and be true to yourself.”

Through motivating youth, Melissa has indeed been walking in her destiny. Rightfully so, she plans to continue to spread the message of hope, wholeness, happiness, and healthy choices to youth around the nation. She stated, “One must believe in themselves, and with this belief, there is nothing they cannot accomplish.” Melissa believes that instilling this message of hope in others will make the world a better place for everyone.

Melissa obtained her Bachelor’s degree in Public Relations, with a minor in Graphic Design in 2004 and a Master’s degree in Social Science with a concentration in Public Management in 2005 from Florida A & M University. After graduation in March 2006, she began working for Abstinence Between Strong Teens, Int’l. Melissa served as the Lead Community Coordinator a Management level position, where she gained national recognition for the organization, planned national giving campaigns, planned numerous community events, and secured millions in state, national, and federal funding. Subsequent to this position, Melissa relocated to Atlanta, Ga. to work with Visions Unlimited as Program Manager of Project Smart Choices. She was responsible for managing and motivating a team of educators to reach youth about the message of abstinence in eight Atlanta Public School sites. She then founded Sammie’s Youth Foundation Inc., with R&B singer Sammie, which partnered with over 30 schools to focus on youth empowerment and music education. She also served as a business developer for Mosaica Education where she managed business and funding opportunities for over 50 schools internationally. After experiencing great success in the non-profit arena, she now works with The Coca-Cola Company executing national marketing campaigns and facilitating numerous community events to support the brand. As a consultant, she has facilitated numerous workshops, planned innovative events, spoken to youth across the country, and worked with numerous celebrities. It is evident that Ms. Mitchell believes in the importance of understanding one’s purpose and living life to its limits!

Her life’s goal is to spread her talent and innovative thinking through: instilling excellence in the lives of youth, helping others realize their inner and outer beauty through motivational speaking and providing state of the art event planning. Her ultimate goal is to live a life of example and to

become a philanthropist and an author. Entrepreneurially, she is currently an online boutique owner, lead designer for an inspirational t-shirt line and motivational speaker. Melissa believes that it is her destiny to work hard to reach true success and prosperity.

PURPOSE IN FASHION MS. PUFF

Tikiya Wadley has always had an eye for beauty, fashion and bazaar creativity. The creative genius began as a teen with the artistry of make-up by using lipsticks as her eye shadow and different kinds of blush on her face just for fun. “I would do make up for my younger cousin for different events which led to me gravitating toward what is now my passion,” Wadley explained. Wadley started to realize how women can feel beautiful and confident with make-up enhancement. She then began to buy different brands of make-up products from stores to fill up her caboodle.

As a young adult, Wadley began to model and she was exposed to castings, video sets, photo shoots, and the behind the scene process of the industry. Wadley revealed, “I payed close attention to the hair and make-up techniques of professional artists.” Wadley knew she could accomplish those same techniques. She later began to invest in other makeup brands and learned their purpose and appropriate placement.

Embarking into her professional career in 2009, Wadley gained knowledge by working as a sales consultant at Sephora. She began taking freelance classes at local beauty schools to perfect her craft.

She partnered with local businesses - Mocha Shic Events and Lights Camera Action Studio and Events, where she was able to take on a professional role as their in house makeup artist. She continued to study beauty and editorial to refresh and refine her artistry by becoming a MAC Cosmetics Pro Member.

With proficient training and hands on experience, she began to brand herself as Eye’deas by Ms. Puff.

Wadley is known for her personable positive attitude and energy in both business and personal relationships, while maintaining professionalism and peace as one of her top qualities.

LUI-VITON

law and politics

Nekishia Lester, Esq

Nekishia Lester, Esq. is a lawyer, motivational speaker, life and business coach, professor and author. She is also an entrepreneur. Ms. Lester is the president of Sarah Corine Sweet Potatoes, Inc., a company specializing in gourmet sweet potatoes pies. She is the principal at Lester Legal Solutions, P.A., a law firm that specializes in transactional legal matters, including, but not limited to, estate planning, business organization and incorporation, contracts, copyright and trademarks.

She also provides comprehensive legal counsel in all aspects on nonprofit law, governance, regulation and charitable giving. She has been featured on the radio on HOT 105.1 FM as a legal analyst. She is also a sought after speaker on various legal issues at various types of events and conferences. She is a legal commentator in JPPIMC Kingdom Broadcast newsletter publishing a monthly legal column, and she is featured legal contributor in the Woman You Will Magazine.

She is president of Memorable Words, Inc., which is a company that provides coaching to individuals on life, parenting and business issues; also the company has a professional skills institute that teaches professionals how to become effective communicators in speech and in writing. Lastly, Ms. Lester is the president of a nonprofit organization, I Am Good Ground, Inc., which is committed to educating, equipping and empowering single parents with resources, practical assistance, education, emotional encouragement and social networking to better lives and the lives of their child(ren). She understands the significant needs of single parents, as she is a single parent of three children. She has been a featured guest on the radio on WJFP 107.1 FM and WEXY 1520 AM discussing social issues relating to single parent households.

What does it value a person to gain the world and not have helped anyone during his/ her lifetime or make a significant positive impact on another person? Ms. Lester’s motto in life is to be the very best you can for the benefit of others.

TOUCHING THE touching the world WORLD

Evangelist Mary L. Smith Ceo/Founder of Shaking The Nations

“tHE EVANGELIST” Evangelist Mary Smith Clarke is the CEO and Founder of Shaking The Nations, Incorporated, an organization that networks and forms partnerships with churches, individuals, humanitarian organizations and faith based organizations whose focus is to empower the total man. A native of New Orleans, Louisiana, she holds a Bachelor’s Degree and Masters Degree in Religious Education and Theology. As a missionary she has dedicated her time to the bible and ministry development in the areas of missions, prisons, discipleships, and leadership training. Evangelist Clarke formerly served as the Pastor of Foreign Missions at the New Birth Baptist Church in Miami, Florida under the leadership of Bishop Victor T. Curry, who licensed her to preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Evangelist Clarke has been employed with AT&T for 30 years.

She is a member of the Berean Christian Church in Stone Mountain, Georgia (Dr. Kerwin B. Lee, Pastor) where she served as the Director of Global Missions. She is the proud mother of Pastor Lorenzo G. Johnson Jr. and Tyrinetta Triggs. Evangelist Clarke continues to say determined to shake the nations with the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Her ministry has travelled several times to the Caribbean, Haiti, Uganda, South Africa, Mozambique, and Swaziland leading several teams of people to do Foreign Mission work.

Shaking The Nations is continuing its commitment to the Missions of Christ”, we are currently offering five missions to Uganda, Kenya, Haiti, West Africa, South Africa, and Jerusalem. If you are interested in participating feel free to contact us for more information. Whether you feel led to contribute financially, through prayer, or both, all of your support is appreciated.

THE JOHNSON BROTHERS THE JAM KIDS Inc.

MR. JOJO

MR. LO3

“We Are One”

THE VISIONARY Who is Lorenzo G. Johnson Jr. ?

Lorenzo G. Johnson Jr., also known as “preacherman”, is recognized as a Dynamic, Anointed, and Committed man of God. In 1996, Elder Lorenzo G. Johnson Jr. was licensed and ordained in 2003 by his father in the ministry Bishop Victor T. Curry, Founding Senior Pastor of New Birth Baptist Church Cathedral of Faith International. In September 1996, Minister Johnson arrived on the campus of FAMU as A football student-athlete and became the President of the Baptist Student Union on the campus of FAMU. In January 1997, he started a chapter of Fellowship of Christian Athletes on the campus of F.A.M.U. October 1997 he became the Collegiate Pastor of Tabernacle MBC under the leadership of Pastor Stanley L. Walker. While serving as the Collegiate Pastor at Tabernacle MBC collegiate attendance and ministry involvement doubled. The revolutionary mindset of Johnson encouraged college students from all over the country to expand their outlook on life and living up to their godly potential.

In 1998, Johnson’s ministry changed. His initial approach was getting people to the church; he took on a new mindset of taking the church to the people. This thought inspired him to start a program called JAM 4 JESUS, where young people were able to share the word of God through their creative gifts and talents. this was a unique yet powerful movement on the campus of FAMU. In January 1999, J.A.M. 4 Jesus, Inc. became a non-profit organization and also an organization on the campus of Florida A&M University. Jam 4 jesus became an evangelistic tool that spread the gospel through gospel rap, gospel R&B, drama, dance, singing, mime, and by the preaching of the word by lorenzo Johnson. While on the campus of FAMU preaching and playing football, he picked up the name Preacherman because every time he made a tackle his favorite words were, “God Bless You Brotha.” He was known as a hard hitting defensive-back who would hit you and give you a word from God at the same time.

From 1999-2004 “Preacherman” is the name johnson took on as he led JAM 4 jesus Crusades in such places as: Nassau, Bahamas, New Orleans, LA, Orlando, Fl, Bonifay, FL, Melbourne, FL, and Miami, FL. Preacherman’s diverse and innovative style of ministry has taken him into all arenas of Ministry from Conferences, Revivals, Community Parks, and even Night clubs.

Preacherman would pass out Christian literature to people who went out to the club looking for a party but instead found peace. In 2006- 2010 Elder Lorenzo G. Johnson became the Founding Senior Pastor of J.A.M. Worldwide Christian Church located in Conyers, Ga. The church established a Sports and Educational club with over 500 boys and girls in participation. While in Conyers, he founded the 1st Community-wide Martin Luther King Celebration 2007, he also established Community-wide Back to School Giveaway, Thanksgiving Turkey Giveaways,Toys for tots, and so much more in his 4 year assignment in Conyers, Ga. In 2010, God gave Pastor Johnson a new assignment in Miami, Fl where he returned home to serve and assist his Father in the ministry Bishop Victor T. Curry as the Pastor of Evangelism at New Birth Baptist Church Cathedral of Faith International.

He is also the husband of the lovely Martine Johnson and father to his handsome 5-yearold son Lorenzo G. Johnson III and 3 year old Joseph Johnson. Johnson Jr. is a graduate of Florida A&M University where attained his bachelor’s degree in History and Economics Education.

Currently, Lorenzo G. Johnson Jr. is an entrepreneur, Business Coach, and educator for the school board of Dade County where he strives to better the lives of all youth and young adults throughout the Miami-Dade community . Lorenzo G. Johnson Jr. has become one of the World’s top men of God who preaches’ the word God to the masses. His vision is to minister to every aspect of mankind makes him unique in everything he sets out to do . He is the Founder and CEO of J.A.M. Community Development Center, Inc. a human services corporation, Vice President of HBCU Information network, Inc., CEO of J.A.M. Magazine, and CoFounder of Global Legacy Enterprises , LLC. He lives by the JAM 4 Jesus motto, “In Everything you do give God the Glory.”

Salutations! Yes, the wait is over! I’ve been waiting for this since last summer. After the initial episode back in June or July, Mary Jane left me wanting more.

Gabrielle Union’s character Mary Jane Paul is relatable in so many aspects.

As an educated young black female, trying to juggle a career, being a care taker, undoubtedly the bread winner of the family, trying to land the perfect man & relationship only to discover over and over again that they are all the same and getting heart broken seems to be the norm. Sad but true! I absolutely love Gabby’s role in this BET drama because it feels authentic. When it’s all said and done, Mary Jane is simply on a quest to be happy. Who isn’t ?

Then there is the fabulous Lisa Vidal known as Kara who plays Mary Janes boss/ producer and friend on the show. These two have a relationship like no other. Their roles together define how women ought to get along especially in the workplace. Love it love it love it!

I was so honored to take part of the BET reception celebration of Being Mary Jane last month on Miami Beach. The red carpet star studded event left me in astonishment. The vibe was phenomenal and bubbly. It was an enlightening experience. I spoke to Gabrielle Union and Lisa Vidal about their characters and role on the show and what the viewers can expect to get out of the upcoming 8 week drama. I also had the honor of meeting Deborah Lee, CEO of BET. This was one if the most enlightening experiences of my life.

Check out my photos with some of the casts from BET’s Being Mary Jane below. Be sure to tune in on BET. This 1 hour drama is a game changer.

Watching Being Mary Jane is definately a hobby I like to engage in when I’m off da clock! This is your off da clock segment with LJ. Thanks for letting me share my thoughts and experiences with you. Follow me on Instagram @offdaclock.

By: Cherrie McRae & Lorenzo G. Johnson, Jr.

• How long have you been doing rap music?

“Since 6th grade. Music was my escape. It helped me stay out the street and out of gangs.”

• What first inspired you to do hip-hop?

“Initially hip hop started out being an escape from all the negative things surrounding me as a child (i.e. killing, gangs, and poverty). I did not like being in the situation I was in so I would listen to different hip hop groups that would momentarily take away the pain and hurt I felt.”

• I see you’re in the upcoming movie, “Black Snake Moan” with Samuel L. Jackson. How did that opportunity come about? And how challenging was it for you, if at all?

“After my 1st song, “like a pimp” I always wanted to act. I take it seriously because rappers are looked at so negatively so I wanted to be a part of changing people’s perception and outlook. I went as far as to take acting classes so I could completely focus on doing the best I could.

Samuel Jackson was also my acting coach.” continued...

•

Who is you favorite preacher? Why?

“Pastor Clark in St. Louis. He is down to earth and has the ability to break the life down to him from one regular person to another.”

How would you describe yourself?

• “I am like a robin hood of the gospel. Some people who say they believe in the gospel are hypocrites and liars because there are no boundaries with God. One should not be restricted to church. Jesus hung around with all types of people outside the church.”

How would use your talent meaningfully?

• “I use the talents I’ve been given to bless the people.””

• Cadillac on 22’s I performed at the Uncle Al Peace in the Hood “Was my letter to God.” What is your favorite movie?

•

“The Last Star Wars”

What did you do prior to entertainment?

• “Before rap I worked as a substitute teacher.”

Is there anything else you would like to share about your beliefs?

• “The only reason I believe there is a Heaven and a Hell because we have the ability to make choices….life is not pre-destined. God helps you when you can’t help yourself.”

“in everything you do, give god the glory.�

PREACHERMAN

JAM 4 JESUS Music Coming Soon SUMMER 2014

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