Huami Magazine Charlotte May/June 2026

God is Still Working

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

A Letter From The Editor - Terry L. Watson

A Letter from the Editor

I believe most people, when asked to describe the best thing that has ever happened to us, our answers are readily available. They are accompanied by smiles and exuberance, possibly because the word “best” triggers feelings of goodness and happiness. On the other hand, when asked to describe the worst thing, our responses are the opposite. This might be a result of how our emotions are directed by the laws of human nature, which is similar to how members of a church choir are to their director. We connect good with happiness, and bad with sadness, two emotions on different ends of life’s spectrum.

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?

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.

Throughout my journey of walking with God and trusting His leadership and direction, I have learned that I am never alone. Through every hurt and pain, through every hill and valley moment, God has always been there. Even during the times when I have walked away, He was there, providing grace, even when I didn’t deserve it. God has shown me through each experience that there is a lesson to be learned, and without the experience of joy, pain, and heartache, I wouldn’t know. I wouldn’t know what it feels like to win and conquer my giants. I wouldn’t know what it feels like to see mountains move in my life, and to see strongholds come down. Without the low moments, how would I know what it feels like to see the Holy Spirit work on my behalf, during moments when I have no words to explain my pain.

General Inquiries

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.

As children of God, I believe that we should never stop striving to get into alignment with what God has purposed us to do. We all have assignments, unique and specific, and accompanied by a clear list of instructions that God provides. He instructs us to pray without ceasing. He instructs us to follow Him and to trust His word. God instructs us to repent and turn from our wicked ways.

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.

While our journeys can be difficult, we must be mindful and know that trouble doesn’t last always, and joy does come in the morning. Get up for your morning, and know that regardless of what it looks like, good or bad, God is still working.

Terry L. Watson Editor/Founder

The Cover

A Father’s Voice: Raising A Child With Autism Antonio Tolson & Dr. Tonya Arnold

Charlotte, NC

Juneteenth Festival 2026

Chief Estella D. Patterson

Greensboro, NC

Dawn Alzheimer Research Study

Dr. Goldie S. Byrd

He is Huami Magazine’s Cutest Baby. Introducing one beautiful baby. His name is Josiah Brownlee

University City Juneteenth Arts Fest Celebrating The Culture

University City Juneteenth Art Fest 2026 presented University City Partners

Celebrate freedom and creativity at the third annual University City Juneteenth Art Fest!

Welcome to the 2026 University City Juneteenth Art Fest! Join us for a vibrant, high-energy celebration of creativity, culture, and community at The Boardwalk at University City, Lakefront. This free, family-friendly experience brings together live performances, interactive art activations, cultural experiences, and featuring over 70+ curated local vendors in honor of Juneteenth.

Experience the festival through immersive, hands-on activations, including: Create Your Own Juneteenth-Themed Painting Tie-Dye a Juneteenth Bandana, Design with African and African American-inspired textiles, Create your own custom bean bag for cornhole, Live podcast station and red carpet interviews, Free haircuts, interactive game stations, and community experiences

Enjoy a full day of live music, dance performances, visual art, games, giveaways, and immersive cultural experiences designed for all ages.

Want to “paint with us” or attend? Reserve a spot so we can have the materials and vibes ready for you!

Want to showcase your products or services? Vendors can apply here: bit.ly/JuneteenthArtFest2026-Vendor

Want to become a sponsor? Contact llake@universitycitypartners.org

Presented by University City Partners, the nonprofit has once again teamed up with the Arts and Science Council’s Culture Blocks initiative, a community partnership funded by Mecklenburg County in partnership with the University City Library. This year’s event promises to deliver more activation stations, artists, performers, and vendors all championing creativity, culture, and social impact.

The festival’s vision and creative direction is led by Creative Director and multidisciplinary artist Janeva Tyree, @, whose immersive approach helps shape the Juneteenth Art Fest into a vibrant celebration of Black culture, creativity, and community connection.

Host: Luna Love, @ joins us as the official event co-host and professional MC, bringing high energy, elegance, and unforgettable vibes to the Juneteenth Art Fest stage.

Performances Include: Jason Brown, @ - Event DJ and grandson of the legendary James Brown, continuing a powerful musical legacy with an electrifying, culture-driven sound. DJ BackSpinz (Claude Whitfield) ft. DJ Yung Prophet, @ x @Bringing youth-driven DJ energy and interactive music experiences to the PlayStation area. DJ JamxLiVe, @ - High-energy DJ delivering dynamic sets that keep the festival moving. TwinNation Dance Company x Legacy Lane Studios, @ x @ - 3-time World of Dance Champions bringing precision, power, and high-energy choreography to the stage.

Mimi V (Mariana Vazquez), @ - Soulful vocalist blending contemporary and classic sounds with a captivating presence.

DDA TINK, @ - Hip-hop and soul artist delivering high-energy, emotionally driven performances.

Lady Scribe (Jasmine Gibson), @ - Poet merging spoken word and music to inspire and engage.

Danny “DSquared²” Davenport, @ - Saxophonist and vocalist bringing smooth, expressive sound to the lineup.

Will Adams, @ - R&B/soul vocalist known for engaging, crowd-connecting performances.

ShanDaria (Shandy Massey), @ - Dynamic singer with soul-stirring vocals and an energetic stage presence.

Kingston “Drummer King” Price @ - Rising youth percussionist delivering powerful rhythms and next-generation talent.

Featured Creative & Cultural Artists: Jarel Kingsberry, @ - Viral animation artist producing custom digital content to elevate the festival’s visual identity. Fauntroy, @ - Nationally recognized live visual artist creating dynamic artwork in real time. Marquia Humphries, @ - A mixed media artist whose work centers the Black experience, blending visual storytelling and advocacy to amplify marginalized voices and make information more accessible.

Fashion Curator: Nira Love, @ - Returning fashion curator leading a high-energy runway experience featuring over 20 models and showcasing local designers and creatives.

Media & Interactive Experiences: Chrissy Doles of Wine, Wealth & Tea Magazine, @ - Live podcast station capturing conversations, culture, and community throughout the festival. Daja Star, @ - Media correspondent, hosting red carpet-style interviews, spotlighting artists, vendors, the community, and special guests.

Community Partners: Lucky Barber Shop, @ - The first Black-owned barbershop featured in Walmart, providing free haircuts to the community with barbers on-site. Shakira Hodges x Trivia For Us, @ - Leading the “Trivia for Us” Game Station, engaging guests through culture and community-centered fun. The festival aims to educate attendees of all ages and backgrounds on the historical and cultural significance of Juneteenth through African American art exhibitions, performances and activities, providing a platform for learning and fostering connections in the community.

For updates on the event and everything University City Partners is doing, sign up for the newsletter and follow @UnivCityCLT on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook and @JuneteenthArtFest on Instagram.

The University City Juneteenth Art Fest is brought to you by our sponsors: University City Partners, ASC Culture Blocks — a community partnership funded by Mecklenburg County in partnership with the University City Library, Freedman Law Group, Sol’Delish. and Truliant.

h

Antonio Tolson Dr. Tonya Arnold A Father’s Voice

“Raising A Son With Autism”

By Terry L. Watson

Photos Provided by Todd Youngblood

When two great minds come together, the results will be even greater. This is the case for Antonio Tolson and Dr. Tonya Arnold. The pair has teamed up to raise awareness about autism, and educate others about what the condition is all about, and how it affects families.

Antonio is a native of Washington, DC. He moved to Charlotte, NC, in 2013, and would eventually marry the love of his life, Tonya. Together, they share one son, AJ, who was diagnosed with autism in 2019. “It all started with a lady from the AVA Clinic. She told us that our son has autism, good luck, and then walked out of our home,” he says. Antonio shares that moment left him and his wife speechless, but he realized that he needed to do something about his son’s diagnosis.

In response to his son’s diagnosis, they launched a nonprofit organization, AJ and The Cool Kids. Some of the services provided by their organization include Occupational and Speech Therapy to their clients. They also conduct an annual walk at the Caramont Health Center in Gastonia, NC, during the first week of April. They also conduct an annual gala during the first week of August. “We try to give other families as much support as possible, and let them know that life isn’t over just because their child has autism.”

Dr. Tonya Arnold is originally from Greensboro, NC. She attended North Carolina A&T State University and later transferred to Winston-Salem State University. There, she was commissioned into the US Army as a Second Lieutenant, serving for a total of 22 years. She retired in 2015 and moved to Charlotte, which allowed her to be closer to her mother’s side of her family, and also experience what it’s like to live in a big city. In Charlotte, she began working on her Masters in Public Administration. She says, “Since being in Charlotte, when compared to living in Greensboro, and being active in various community service-based organizations, including working with small businesses and being in the military, I’ve noticed that our nonprofit doesn’t get the necessary amount of funding and equity that most other businesses receive. I believe a lot of it is due to what has been coined “the hustle”. What I am trying to do with businesses and nonprofits, for-profits, and community-based organizations, is to make sure that they are legitimate, operationally sound, and are in compliance on the federal, local, and state levels.” Additionally, in her capacity, she initially began working as a consultant from a pro-bono perspective. Dr. Arnold has worked with sororities and with the Ben L. Smith High School Alumni Association in Greensboro. She is also a member of the Cobra Sports Foundation. “In these roles, I have been able to understand processes,” she says. She also has a media and publishing arm with her brand. With this, she gives opportunities to others to share their stories, which are relevant to them; their history and struggles told from their perspective.

Amazingly, with all that she has done, Dr. Arnold created a consulting business, Arnold Consulting Group. She says that Antonio has greatly inspired her. “Antonio and Tonya have allowed me to work with AJ and The Cool Kids for nearly four years. He soon shared some visions he had with me. I listened and asked him if he ever thought about writing a book. He was open to the idea, and we met a few times to discuss the structure of what the book would be, until the idea became a reality,” she says.

“Antonio and Tonya have allowed me to work with AJ and The Cool Kids for nearly four years. He soon shared some visions he had with me. I listened and asked him if he ever thought about writing a book.”

The book, A Father’s Voice, Raising A Son with Autism, is about Antonio’s son, AJ, but it also reaches fathers who have children with different disabilities and disorders. A soft launch was held in March of this year. During that event, Antonio shared what the vision and intentions are for the book, and he also realized that a workbook should accompany it. On June 13, 2026, Antonio and his team will host a Dads Discuss Group at Amerihealth Carnitas NC on Wilkerson Boulevard in Charlotte. The time for the event is 11:00 am to 1:00 pm.

“I can’t thank Dr. Arnold enough for pushing me to write the book. I always wanted the book to mean something to me, and not just for the sake of being an author.”

Since publishing his book, Antonio’s schedule has become very busy. He has been interviewed and made appearances on several television stations in Charlotte. He has been a guest on a podcast and is scheduled for a few others. During the month of July, he will attend an Autism Dad Weekend event in Atlanta, GA. On August 8th, they will host their annual gala and most significant fundraising event, themed Under The Cherry Moon. It will be held at Caramont Health Park in Gastonia, NC. In September, he’s been asked to speak at The Autism Strong event, called Field Strong that will take place in Charlotte.

“Things are moving. I am a person who puts high expectations on myself. I do not like to do things halfway. I can’t thank Dr. Arnold enough for pushing me to write the book. I always wanted the book to mean something to me, and not just for the sake of being an author. I have learned since writing the book that there are a lot of men and fathers who feel like me, but just didn’t know how to express themselves,” Antonio says.

To purchase a copy of A Father’s Voice, Raising A Son with Autism, please contact Antonio directly. You may also find it on Amazon and Kindle. To purchase tickets to attend their gala and to learn more about AJ and The Cool Kids, please visit their website.

Natasha Erwin

aNew Mobile DNA Collection Service

By Terry L. Watson

Natasha Erwin, former MC/host and event promoter, who is known to many in the Charlotte, NC, community as “Ms I Set the Standards” has set her sights on a new business venture, aNEW Mobile DNA Collection Service.

Natasha’s company is redefining the DNA testing experience by bringing elite-level laboratory standards directly to its clients. As a premier mobile collection provider, aNew Mobile specializes in high-stakes biological sampling for legal, estate, and personal verification. They have exclusively partnered with AABB-accredited laboratories (Association for the Advancement of Blood & Biotherapies). This partnership, Natasha shares, ensures that every sample collected is processed in a facility that meets the standards for quality, accuracy, and technical competence. “Whether you are navigating a complex family law case or seeking personal answers, our partnership ensures your results are backed by the same accreditation required by courts and government agencies nationwide,” she says.

A native of New York City, Natasha was adopted and moved to Charlotte with family. Her adoption, she says, was a result of her parents being unable to take care of her. “The one person who did take care of me, my Nana, was diagnosed and overcome by cancer. That is what led me to move to the south and to be adopted by a family. Life wasn’t easy as a child. I grew up feeling unloved. I dropped out of school at 17 years old; however, just before having the first of my three beautiful children, I acquired my GED. I later obtained several trades, one being Phlebotomy, from Thomas Healthcare Institute. Having that degree helped me to take care of my children and later start a business doing something I loved. After graduating from THC, I went on to work for a well known lab, advancing to various roles in the company. I was a lab manager, I performed lab analysis and assisted other offices with building, starting, and maintaining their labs. Presently, I have 17 years in this field, doing everything from drawing blood, administering drug screens, DNA collection, as well as processing and management. to now start a business in the field. And that is how aNEW Mobile DNA Collection Service happened,” she says.

“I dropped out of school at 17 years old; however, just before having the first of my three beautiful children, I acquired my GED. I later obtained several trades, one being Phlebotomy, from Thomas Healthcare Institute.”

Natasha shares that during the month of January 2026, she was going through a hard time just before starting her newest business. She says a particular scripture came to her in one form or another; Isaiah 43:18-19 “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past.” She prayed about what that scripture meant, and all she could come up with was to release the pain if she wanted to start “NEW”. “I’m not sure if God was speaking about one particular thing or just everything, but I was eager to have that “NEW” thang. So, when it came time to name my business, God said aNEW.”

One of the services offered by aNew DNC Collection Services is Legal Paternity & Maternity Testing. This is a Court-admissible testing following strict chain-of-custody protocols for child support, custody, or immigration matters. Another is Complex Kinship Analysis, which specializes in siblingship and avuncular (aunt/uncle) testing to verify biological links for estate planning or family reconstruction. She offers Immigration DNA Testing and provides the AABB-accredited collection services. aNew handles the strict chain-of-custody protocols necessary to prove biological relationships for visas and citizenship applications. She also offers Estate & Inheritance Verification. This is a Professional collection service tailored for law firms and executors requiring high-integrity genetic proof. Finally, aNew provides Personal Knowledge Testing. This test accesses the same AABB-level laboratory precision for her client’s own peace of mind, and is conducted in a discreet, professional setting. “We eliminate the stress of the clinical waiting room. Even more, by combining mobile flexibility with HIPAA-compliant data security and AABBaccredited science, we provide a seamless path to certainty,” Natasha says.

When asked what she loves most about aNew Mobile DNA Collection Services, Natasha says it is being a part of helping others find those answers and being able to make it more convenient for her clients. She adds, “Of course, I love the happy endings, but even the stories that don’t end as expected bring about “aNEW” path to certainty, as my slogan states.”

Launching and starting a business comes with their own share of needs. Natasha says her immediate needs are building clientele and getting the word out about her incredible service. She is also looking to build partnerships with attorneys, doctors, and agencies who can benefit from the services offered by aNew.

Looking ahead, Natasha says she is planning to expand her business. “I expect for aNew to become a household name in the field of DNA collection and lab services. I will be adding other services such as Mobile Notary, Phlebotomy, and Peek A Boo, which is testing for moms expecting.

To learn more about aNew Mobile DNA Collection Service, please visit their website.

“I’m not sure if God was speaking about one particular thing or just everything, but I was eager to have that “NEW” thang. So, when it came time to name my business, God said aNEW.”

Renee Rowe Unifour One

If We Empower Our Youth We Empower

Our Communities

Information and Photos Provided by Unfour One

For nearly 25 years, Unifour One has stood as a trusted voice, advocate, and hands-on service provider for underserved communities across North Carolina. What began as a vision rooted in justice, opportunity, and community empowerment has grown into a strong, multi-service nonprofit organization with offices in Greensboro and Hickory, North Carolina.

Co-Founded by Renee Rowe, Unifour One has remained committed to its mission of promoting educational achievement, social equality, and economic self-sufficiency for individuals and families who are too often overlooked, underserved, or counted out. As CoFounder and Co-Executive Director, Renee Rowe has dedicated her life’s work to serving justice-impacted youth, adults, families, and communities facing barriers to stability and success. Alongside her, Brian Rowe, Co-Executive Director, provides leadership, operational oversight, and organizational direction that helps keep Unifour One grounded, accountable, and moving forward. Together, Renee and Brian Rowe have helped build an organization that does more than talk about change; Unifour One shows up, does the work, and remains present in communities when families need support the most. As Unifour One approaches its 25th year of service, the organization continues to expand its impact through youth development, juvenile justice programming, violence interruption, civic engagement, employment support, and services for individuals experiencing homelessness.

Serving Youth Through JCPC Programs

One of the strongest pillars of Unifour One’s work is its commitment to youth development through its JCPC-funded programs, which include mentoring, life skills, vocational training, and structured support for justice-involved and at-risk youth. These programs are designed to help young people make better decisions, build healthy relationships, improve school performance, develop employment skills, and stay connected to positive adults and positive opportunities.

The JCPC team plays a critical role in this work. William Jones, Daquan Bryant, Sonya Smith, Cam Dula, and Brian Jemel Johnson serve youth and families through mentoring, life skills support, court involvement, transportation assistance, group sessions, and community-based guidance. Their work requires patience, consistency, compassion, and accountability. They are often the people standing in the gap for youth who need someone to believe in them before they fully believe in themselves.

Latoya Jones serves as the Intake Coordinator for all programs, helping families, youth, and referring partners begin the process of receiving services. Her role is vital because intake is often the first point of contact for families who may already be overwhelmed, frustrated, or unsure of where to turn.

Interrupting Violence and Restoring Hope

Unifour One is also deeply engaged in violence interruption and violence prevention work. The organization understands that violence does not happen in isolation. It is often connected to trauma, poverty, unresolved conflict, lack of opportunity, grief, retaliation, and broken systems.

Through its violence interruption work, Unifour One responds to community conflict, supports young people and families in crisis, and works to prevent violence before it escalates. The organization uses credible messengers, mentoring, mediation, life skills education, and community engagement to help individuals choose peace, safety, and a different path forward.

Gavin Wharton, Employment Specialist and Certified Violence Interrupter, plays an important role in connecting individuals to employment opportunities while also helping address the root causes that often lead to violence. His work reflects one of Unifour One’s strongest beliefs: when people have real opportunities, support, and guidance, they are more likely to choose stability over survival mode.

Supporting the Unhoused Through Day Labor and Employment

Unifour One’s work also reaches individuals and families experiencing homelessness through its Day Labor Program for the unhoused. This program provides more than temporary employment. It offers a pathway toward dignity, income, stability, and hope. Through day labor opportunities, participants are connected to work, job readiness support, transportation assistance, and resources that help them begin rebuilding their lives. For many, having the chance to earn income is the first step toward housing stability, self-sufficiency, and renewed confidence.

Unifour One understands that homelessness is not simply the absence of housing. It is often the result of job loss, family instability, trauma, financial hardship, lack of transportation, and limited access to supportive services. The Day Labor Program meets people where they are while helping them move toward where they want to be.

Civic Engagement and Voter Registration

Another major part of Unifour One’s legacy is its long-standing commitment to civic engagement and nonpartisan voter registration. For years, the organization has worked across North Carolina to educate, engage, and register over 200,000 voters, especially in communities where people have historically been underrepresented. Unifour One’s civic engagement work is rooted in the belief that every voice matters and every eligible citizen should have access to the democratic process. The organization works in communities, schools, events, neighborhoods, and public spaces to help residents register to vote, update their voter registration, and understand the importance of civic participation.

The voter registration and compliance team helps ensure that this work is done with integrity, accuracy, and professionalism. Ashanti Bell serves as Voter Registration Quality Control for the Greensboro office. Melissa Scott serves as Voter Registration Quality Control for the Hickory office. Tiara Jones serves in the Hickory office as Voter Registration and Compliance Officer, helping support the organization’s commitment to accurate, nonpartisan voter registration work.

Myra Moore, Western NC Lead Organizer, provides leadership in the western region, helping strengthen Unifour One’s reach and presence in communities across that part of the state. Jullian Harrison, Disability Advocate for Civic Engagement, plays an important role in helping ensure that individuals with disabilities are seen, heard, respected, and included in civic participation efforts. His work strengthens Unifour One’s commitment to accessibility, representation, and equal opportunity.

A Team Built on Commitment

Behind every successful organization is a team of people who carry the mission forward each day. Unifour One’s staff reflects dedication, compassion, and a deep understanding of the communities being served. Laura Torres, who has served as a Spanish interpreter for 15 years, has been an important part of Unifour One’s ability to serve Spanish-speaking individuals and families with dignity and respect. Her work ensures that language is not a barrier to receiving support, understanding services, or being treated with care. The organization’s team continues to represent the heart of Unifour One: people serving people, not from a distance, but directly in the community.

Looking Toward the Future

As Unifour One celebrates its 25th year, the organization is not simply looking back. It is also looking ahead. The work is still needed. Youth still need mentors. Families still need support. Communities still need peace. Individuals experiencing homelessness still need employment pathways. Residents still need access to civic participation. And underserved communities still need organizations that are willing to stand with them for the long haul. For Co- Founder Renee Rowe, this milestone is deeply personal. It represents 25 years of sacrifice, faith, service, leadership, and love for the community. It represents the youth who found direction, the families who found support, the adults who found work, the voters who found their voice, and the communities that found hope through Unifour One’s presence.

Unifour One’s story is one of perseverance. It is a story of service that did not stop when the work became difficult. It is a story of leadership rooted in purpose. Most of all, it is a story of what can happen when an organization remains committed to people, community, and the belief that transformation is always possible. After 25 years, Unifour One continues to stand strong with a clear message: the work is not finished, and the mission continues. h

The Dawn Alzheimer Research Study

By Terry L. Watson - Photos Provided by Donna Bradby

Dr. Goldie S. Byrd is a Professor of Public Health Sciences and a Principal Investigator of the DAWN Alzheimer’s Research Study at Wake Forest University School of Medicine. The study is an international initiative whose focus is to build a resource that will expand Alzheimer’s disease genetic studies in 13,000 people of African ancestry and Hispanic/Latinx groups. This work also addresses nonmedical drivers of health and hopes that it will lead to new therapeutic targets for Alzheimer’s disease.

The collaborative group includes the University of Miami, Columbia University, Case Western Reserve University, the University of Pennsylvania, and the University of Ibadan (Nigeria), and 11 other sites across the African Continent. This study is one of the first to examine interactions between ancestry and the non-medical drivers of health. Both factors can contribute to the risk and age of onset of Alzheimer’s disease, and studying both types of risk factors will help researchers understand how they interact in the development of Alzheimer’s disease. Participation of diverse individuals assists in addressing inequalities and medical disparities in Alzheimer’s treatment and prevention.

Dr. Byrd shares that over the years, they have built a trusted bi-directional relationship with social, civic, and faith networks across the country and internationally. These relationships have helped spread the word about Alzheimer’s in diverse populations, close research gaps, and reduce disparities. We partnered with our Triad Pastors Network, housed at Wake Forest University School of Medicine, whose goal is to address health disparities by creating or advancing health ministries. Faith Leaders in the Network recently completed a year-and-a-half-long project in Alzheimer’s, involving small churches and mega churches across the country. With the support of a senior Pastor, Dr. Kelvin Lamonte Williams, and the leadership of an Ecclesiastical Advisory Council, the Network has addressed major health disparities, such as heart disease, the COVID pandemic, physical activity, pastoral care, and Alzheimer’s disease for the past seven years.

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia, it is the sixth leading cause of death in America, and the numbers of those affected are expected to triple in less than ten years. It occurs twice as often in African Americans as in Whites. In addition, African Americans experience a higher caregiver burden and are less likely to get a diagnosis. Alzheimer’s disease is a complex disease with a pronounced genetic component with an estimated heritability of 60%-80%. That means it often affects multiple people in the same family and across generations. Understanding the genetic basis of this disease, as well as the social and environmental effects of the disease, is critical to understanding Alzheimer’s disease in African Americans and why there are such disparities in this community. Although the disease affects individuals of all ethnic and ancestral backgrounds, efforts to understand it in African Americans have suffered due to a lack of participation in studies. Most genetic-based studies in Alzheimer’s disease have been performed in non-Hispanic white populations of European ancestry, with communities of Hispanic and African ancestry largely excluded.

The ten warning signs of Alzheimer’s include memory loss that disrupts daily life; challenges in planning or solving problems; difficulty completing familiar tasks; confusion with time or place; trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships; new problems with words in speaking or writing; misplacing items and losing the ability to retrace steps; decreased or poor judgment; withdrawal from work or social activities; and changes in mood or personality. Recognizing these signs earlier can make a meaningful difference for families navigating this disease. My experiences have fueled a deep and lasting passion— not only to help find answers, but also to support families and raise awareness so others can recognize the signs sooner and take action.

Dr. Goldie S. Byrd grew up in Magnolia, NC, a small rural town in Duplin County. Her parents, Jessie and Bertha Smith, were her greatest influencers and supporters. She shares that they taught her brothers and sisters to be decent, to work hard, and to have faith. Not only did they support Dr. Byrd and her siblings by providing shelter, food, and a safe home, but they also supported their efforts. “We were brought up in church and in Sunday School. You can only imagine what my parents experienced while trying to own their own farm, raising six children, and assuring that all six went to college, during the Jim Crow era. Though they both are deceased, they live within each of us, and we honor them.”

Dr. Byrd’s work in Alzheimer’s disease began while she was on sabbatical at Duke University School of Medicine, beginning in 2002. Though she was trained as a Microbiologist with a concentration in genetics, she changed her research focus to human genetics to address Alzheimer’s disease. The disease was wreaking havoc in the African American community, yet there was little talk about it due to stigma and embarrassment. Even more, there was less research being done on how this devastating disease was affecting this population. Learning in the early 2,000s that this disease was more burdensome in African Americans (twice as much as in Whites), and yet there was hardly any research being done with this population to understand the huge disparity, Dr. Byrd was convinced early on that she should do something in this field of research. “I not only wanted to conduct genetics research, but I also wanted to be a resource for families who experienced Dementia. I wanted to contribute something much more impactful than my initial research goals,” she says.

I was 19 when I noticed a startling change in my grandmother’s behavior. She began using profane language, something I had never heard her do in my life. At the time, I didn’t understand what it meant...... It felt out of character but not yet connected to something larger in my mind.”

Takiyah

Starks Broadnax

Dr. Byrd was awarded grants with Dr. Margaret Pericak Vance at Duke for a sabbatical and for research projects to conduct the largest Genome Wide Association study in Alzheimer’s disease in African Americans, the first of its kind. At that time, Dr. PericakVance was and remains one of the top geneticists studying Alzheimer’s disease. In 2002, however, she had not begun to do this work in African Americans. Now working at the University of Miami, Dr. Pericak-Vance and Dr. Byrd have continued to work together for 24 years to diversify Alzheimer’s research. They are currently working on a $54 million dollar study, the DAWN Alzheimer’s Research study, which will create one of the largest cohorts, mostly community based, of African, African American, and Hispanic ancestries to understand the genetic architecture of Alzheimer’s disease in these populations.

Though Alzheimer’s disease was discovered in 1906, a significant amount of what is known about the disease was discovered in the past couple of decades. More than 50 million people around the world and over 7.2 million Americans have been diagnosed. That number is predicted to double in the next 30 years, without intervention, since the number one risk factor for it is age and we are living longer. “We are now aware of the stages of disease, from pre-clinical (where there are no symptoms), to severe and eventual death. Most people are diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in their 60s or 70s. However, a person can have the disease over 20 years before the first symptom. In the last couple of years, drugs have been discovered that actually slow the disease rather than just treat symptoms. This is a major advancement. In addition, we know that our everyday life can impact the risk of Alzheimer’s. Having enough sleep, reducing blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol, and getting a good education all impact the possibility of getting the disease. These social and environmental factors suggest that living a healthy and active lifestyle reduces people’s risk of Alzheimer’s, even if there is a history of it in your family.”

Since the inception of Dr. Byrd’s work, she has been intentional about listening to her community. She says, “I watched caregivers struggle from lack of information and resources and the inability to care for themselves as they cared for others – essentially suffering in silence. Families were forced to make the difficult decision to put a loved one in a facility. After learning from the community, we were able to create a resource to support communities that had been under resourced as it relates to Alzheimer’s disease. I knew our team could make a difference when we had the opportunity to bring a comprehensive Alzheimer’s disease awareness project to North Carolina A&T State University, where I served as the chair of biology, endowed professor, and Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences. With the support of the administration, Merck Foundation, AARP, alumni, and friends, we created the Center for Outreach in Alzheimer’s Aging and Community Health, to provide a physical space and a resource for families burdened by Alzheimer’s. We provided lunch and learns, support groups, workshops, seminars, symposia, a caregiver college, and, for 10 years, a caregiver conference that drew hundreds of people annually from around North Carolina and nearby states. Being at an Historically Black University we were able to create a campus hub for including African Americans in awareness, education, support and research opportunities,” Dr. Byrd says.

We still do not have a cure or a way to prevent Alzheimer’s. The goal is that all people from all backgrounds will be equitably represented in research studies and clinical trials in order to contribute to new knowledge, new therapies, and ways to prevent AD.”

Dr. Goldie S. Byrd

At Wake Forest we continue to support caregivers dealing with Alzheimer’s disease through a Dementia Caregiver College that is led by Dr. Allison Caban-Holt. There have been numerous recognition and lifetime achievement awards for the work, including from the United Nations, the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference, and AARP. However, our greatest reward comes in knowing we have made a difference in reducing disparities in this disease.

The Family Based Study at Wake Forest University School of Medicine’s is co-leading a major initiative to identify genetic risk factors for Alzheimer’s disease in families of African ancestry. This research takes a family-centered approach, focusing on African American families in which two or more members are affected by Alzheimer’s disease, as well as relatives who are unaffected. By analyzing DNA and blood-based biomarkers, researchers aim to uncover rare genetic variants that may cluster within families and increase an individual’s risk of developing the disease. This work is especially critical, as African American populations have historically been underrepresented in Alzheimer’s research, leaving significant gaps in scientific understanding and care.

Americans in awareness, education, support and research opportunities,” Dr. Byrd says. The Center, now directed by Dr. Travonia Hughes, continues to do this work and is doing a fabulous job. Through their grassroots community work, they have supported families who have multiple people affected by the disease in their Family-Based study where they look for genetic and environmental factors that affect the disease. There have been numerous recognition and lifetime achievement awards for the work, including from the United Nations, the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference, and AARP.

The DAWN study has benefited significantly from the commitment and dedication of an outstanding clinical research team led by Program Manager, Takiyah Broadnax Starks. She also has a deeply personal connection to the disease as her paternal grandmother was diagnosed in her late fifties and lived until the age of 97. Takiyah says that watching her grandmother’s long journey shaped her understanding in ways she didn’t fully recognize at the time, and it would be years before she truly grasped the signs she had witnessed firsthand. “I was 19 when I noticed a startling change in my grandmother’s behavior. She began using profane language, something I had never heard her do in my life. At the time, I didn’t understand what it meant, and I didn’t mention it to my father or my aunt. It felt out of character but not yet connected to something larger in my mind. Years later, as I became more deeply involved in Alzheimer’s research and learned the ten warning signs of the disease, everything began to come into focus. By then, my grandmother had already been living with Alzheimer’s for several years. One of the warning signs—changes in mood or personality— immediately brought clarity to that memory. I realized that what I had witnessed at 19 was not random, but a symptom of the disease.”

Across all sights the clinical research coordinators and managers actively recruit and retain participants for the study. They provide talks, workshops and exhibits to African American communities across the country. They conduct assessments and collect genetic and environmental data to understand Alzheimer’s disease in persons of African and Hispanic Ancestry.

Predicting the future of the disease is a daunting task. Even more, funding for research has changed in recent years and is a bit more uncertain. This creates challenges for researchers and determines the extent to how much can be done in vulnerable and high-burdened communities and with people who are less represented in studies and trials. “We still do not have a cure or a way to prevent Alzheimer’s. The goal is that all people from all backgrounds will be equitably represented in research studies and clinical trials in order to contribute to new knowledge, new therapies, and ways to prevent Alzheimer’s disease,” Dr. Byrd says.

African Americans over the age of 60 are encouraged to join the DAWN Alzheimer’s study. “We are seeking African American individuals and their family members with memory loss, or who have dementia, or Alzheimer’s. We also need family members who are healthy and are not affected. For individuals who are experiencing memory loss, or not, and for families who wish to join or donate brain tissue after death, your participation is welcomed to help find answers to this devastating disease by joining our study. “My hope is that the disease as we know it will become a thing of the past,” Dr. Byrd says. To learn more about this study, please contact Takiyah Starks Broadnax at the email address that is listed below, or call 336-713-7600.

Demhaj Poetry Lounge

The Spoken Word Gem for the City of High Point

By Terry L. Watson

If you haven’t heard about Demhaj Poetry Lounge, then you’d better ask somebody.

Nestled away in the city of High Point, NC, Demhaj Poetry Lounge has been operating as a Black-Owned, Faith-Based business since 2022. Led by mother-son duo, Brigette Williams and Jahmed Williams, Demhaj Poetry Lounge has developed into a place that provides local and aspiring poets with a platform to showcase their poetic gifts and talents. It has also become a popular location for talented and accomplished poets, with many hosting private listening parties and events there. Each Thursday evening, they host Open Mic Thursday, and occasionally, yet with frequency, Demhaj hosts their Love Jones Saturday, which is a more intimate affair for both performers and guests.

Demhaj Poetry Lounge was founded by Bridgette Williams. She says that since her youth, she’s had a passion for the art of poetry. She also dreamed of opening a space for her community to freely express themselves. After years of planning, that dream eventually became a reality. Bridgette named the poetry cafe after her son, Jahmed (spelled backwards), as an expression of her love for him. Jahmed himself is an established poet, creative, and writer, and received a Bachelors degree in Business from Georgia State University.

Since 2022, Demhaj has experienced a great deal of popularity of growth. They have hosted more than 250 events in the Carolinas, with nearly 2500 confirmed guests. “I don’t really see it as popularity, I see it as people who come into our atmosphere. We are very diverse and offer everyone a chance to speak and be heard. I am very humble and thankful for what God has allowed us to do,” Bridgette says.

There are many other poetry lounges and cafes spread across North Carolina, yet what makes Demhaj different is its ability to connect with its poets and their audience.

“We are a mother-son management company, and it works for us. Jahmed loves what we do, and he goes above and beyond to ensure that everything is right to the best of his ability. We are different because of our authenticity. People can enjoy great spoken words and feel welcome. I believe that many people are dealing with many things, including trauma, and poetry offers a form of therapy. We provide a platform for others to come and share their stories. I have heard many people call our lounge a gem that is hidden in High Point. When people come in, they are often in awe, mainly because they didn’t know we existed,” she says.

While Demhaj has grown, Bridgette does ponder the idea of opening a second location. Their current High Point location holds a special place in Bridgette’s heart, as her mother, who passed away a few years ago, was a part of the opening season in 2022. “While we may open another location in the future, the small, yet intimate space we currently have allows me to continue to connect with my mother,” Bridgette says.

Some of the services and products offered at Demhaj include a variety of coffees and special drinks. They also offer merchandise such as t-shirts, cups, and accessories. The space itself is also available for rent for special events such as birthday parties, retirement parties, and more. Poets who are looking for a place to showcase their talents in a private event, that service is available as well. Looking ahead, Demhaj Poetry Lounge is excited to continue to offer poets a platform, as well providing a space for its guests to enjoy spoken word.

Real Love Music

By Terry L. Watson

You have most likely heard and seen them in the Triad. Perhaps you may have witnessed one of their performances somewhere around the country. What Kim and Ray Larkin share in marriage, love, and life transcends onto every welcoming platform.

Known as the faces and voices of Real Love Music, Kim and Ray have shared 19 years of marriage, a union that has also produced two amazing sons, Raymond and Ray. Kim was born and raised on the south side of Winston-Salem, NC, with her mom and two sisters. She is an alumna of Robert B. Glenn High School, which is also located in the Twin City. Raymond was born in Grand Rapids, MI, and moved to High Point, NC at the age of 11. He would later graduate from High Point Central High School.

What is Real Love Music? In addition to sharing their anointing with the world, the power couple offers professional vocal performances for a wide range of events, including weddings, concerts, festivals, private gatherings, and sporting events. They also offer eventhosting services and vocal accompaniment services for other artists. Yet, there is so much more to Kim and Ray than just music. “We have a strong foundation of faith. We believe God, and that has impacted our lives and careers more than anything else. He gave us our purpose and vision, which is “Bringing fun back to love through music and entertainment,” Kim says.

When asked what they love most about what they do, they share, “We love singing as a duet. Being able to meet and/or connect with a diverse community of people through the music we share is very rewarding. We are inspired by various artists and the audience of people who enjoy live music. The love and encouragement we continue to receive are incredibly special.”

Singing comes naturally to Kim and Ray; that’s what they do, and though they are operating in their gifts, it does come with its own unique set of challenges. Kim says the main challenge they face is learning to balance work life and performing, especially when their desire is for singing to be their sole profession. Another challenge, she says, is not having the funds readily available for the creative projects we want to present such as live shows, business products, and collaborations. She says, “We manage our challenges by prayer, planning, and patience. We also do it by understanding that God’s timing is extremely important. We never want to try and force a goal that may not be in His plans yet.”

With life, family, and music, the journey has been amazing, they shared. They also state there isn’t much they would change about the way things have happened and occurred. “From the small beginnings to the monumental moments and everything in between, we believe that it has all played a significant role in shaping our development, our growth, our professionalism, and our reason,” they said.

To learn more about Kim and Ray, and to book them for your event or special occasion, please contact them directly.