Huami Magazine Triad Jan./Feb. 2022 by Terry Watson

Jan./Feb. 2022

Cherished Occasions Catering

Celebrating30 Years ofMinistry

Pastor Michael Thomas

My Expectations and The Truth

There Are No If, Ands, Or Buts About

A Letter From The Editor

A Letter from the Editor

I would have to say that I grew up poor by world standards. I never felt like it because my mother constantly poured unconditional love into my other siblings and me. Her love wouldn’t allow me to focus on what I didn’t have or anything I could be missing. However, as life happened, I realized that when compared to others, my experiences were more complex. Even still, I had the opportunity to overcome them.

It!

A Letter from the Editor

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?

One of the most important things I learned from my upbringing is that the truth will always override my expectations. The very first car that I owned, I purchased for myself. It wasn’t a new vehicle, but it was mine. It had a few dents, and the tires didn’t match either. The heat or air conditioning didn’t work, and the exhaust pipe would shake like a leaf when I started the car, probably because it was being held in place by the wiring of a close hanger. With all of its imperfections, my car was a beauty in my sight, and I was very appreciative to own it.

Though it seemed like I drove that car for all eternity, it only survived one year with me. I didn’t keep gas in the fuel tank, and I never changed the oil either. I drove it fast, and on cold mornings I didn’t allow it to warm up. Rarely did I bathe it or even provide it with routine or preventative maintenance, and before I knew it, my first and only method of transportation slowed down and shut off in the middle of the road.

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.

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.

See, I expected my car to run forever, but the truth is I never did anything to ensure that it would. I expected my car to go when I needed it to but never considered my thoughtless and erratic treatment’s impact on it. I expected to ride forever, but the truth is I never invested in my cars’ future.

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 Editor/Founder

I’m saying that we will only get out of life what we put into it. How will we ever expect to know God if we never spend time with Him? My goal in life is to win. For this to happen, I must be willing to do what is necessary to win and align myself with what is true, which is God’s expectations.

Terry L. Watson Editor/Founder

Terry

L. Watson

Photo by Shaw Photography Group

Cherished Occasions and Catering

Community Action Hero Group

Nicole McGruder

Black Butterfly Doula

Charisse Montgomery

Ideas Unlimited Events LLC

Stefanie and Sade

She Got Game League

Celia Newman

Dr. Marrissa R. Dick

Do you need help with filing for a LLC, Article of Incorporation, or Grant Proposal? She can help. Greensboro, NC.

Cutest Baby Photo

She is a real cutey. Introducing Railyn Kate. Huami Magazine’s Cutest Baby

She Has A Purpose Timika Thompson

The Sales Confidence Coach Brian K. McNeill

Kreative Designs by Kim Kimberly Perkins

Allure Teeth Whitening Chiquita Jordan

Lou and Theresa Graves

On The Cover

Taylor’s Pro Tax & Beyond

By Terry L. Watson

by Kimberly Morrow

It’s a new tax season, and this will be Taylor’s Pro Tax & Beyond 4th Year anniversary.

Kimberly Morrow is the owner of Taylor’s Pro Tax & Beyond and Sharon’s Custom LLC. Since the onset of the Covid 19 pandemic, Kimberly and her husband have added Sharon’s Custom LLC. This addition is named after his mother, who died on Mother’s Day in 2021. They provide select items and products such as custom wear, candles, shirts, mugs, and more. Sharon’s Custom LLC makes her company the first Accounting Firm/Custom Wear Store in Greensboro, NC.

Kimberly’s goal is to help the whole world with tax issues, making sure the hard-working taxpayers are getting what they deserve. Kimberly assists with all tax preparation and helps businesses with bookkeeping. Her services allow companies to focus on their business and not their taxes. Additionally, she assists customers with establishing their LLCs, EIN’s, and more, ensuring their businesses are on the right track. Some additional products offered by Kimberly are credit repair for individuals and companies.

Some topics that Kimberly would like to discuss are tax deductions and credits. She says these are items that could put more funds in your pocket this tax season. First, is the Child Tax Credi. President Joe Biden had expanded this credit for 2021. This credit is worth up to $3600 per child (aged five or younger) and $3000 per child (6 through 17). Taxpayers who’ve received their monthly payments will receive the other half when they file their 2021 taxes. Your accountant or tax professional can add your payments to your 2021 tax return for those who didn’t receive payments. This includes taxpayers who had a newborn.

The next topic is the Recovery Rebate Credit. This credit is for taxpayers who didn’t receive their third stimulus check. The IRS had started issuing payments in March 2021. “You can have an accountant or tax professional to add this credit on your 2021 tax return. If you had a newborn in 2021, you can claim this credit for them as well. These payments can be up to $1400 per individual, up to $2800 for a couple, and $1400 per dependent,” she says.

There is the Credit Sick Leave for self-employed individuals who had to take care of a family member that had COVID-19 in 2021 and had to miss time from work to take care of the family member. Kimberly says she wants to make sure everyone gets every dollar they deserve this tax season.

Taylor’s Pro Tax & Beyond is open year-round to help with taxes and accounting needs nationwide. For more tax topics or questions, please contact Taylor’’s Pro Tax and Beyond directly or visit their website. They can even be found on Google.

Photos

Cherished Occasions Catering

By Dr. Marrissa DIck

Scripture frequently mentions food in various contexts. In eating our daily bread, God encourages His followers to nourish their bodies and souls with nutritional and spiritual food. One way people can gain that nutritional food is through catering. The responsibility of a caterer is to prepare, deliver, and serve bulk meal orders to clients for special events such as conferences, celebrations, weddings, birthdays, and baby showers. People who need assistance with making their celebration a cherished and memorable event often seek outside help. One caterer frequently sought after for her nutritional value and creative ambiance is Theresa A. Graves, owner and founder of Cherished Occasions, Incorporated.

Read as Theresa shares how she overcame homelessness to establishing herself as a sought-after catering entrepreneur.

“I have been cooking for a very long time, especially since I am the mother of four children. I had to cook because it was too expensive to go out to eat, so cooking was something I had to do. Everyone from my grandparents, my dad, and my mom cooked, so I was fortunate to learn how to prepare good food from scratch. When my children were younger, they would bring friends home to eat, and they would always show up around dinner time. We were always asked to bring extra dishes during the holidays, I thought because I had a larger family, but that wasn’t the case. I noticed that every time we brought a dish, they were the first to go. It didn’t matter what type either. It could be my homemade yeast rolls with honey butter or one of my baked goods; it didn’t matter. Then someone asked if I would cook for their event. I was hesitant at first, but then I realized if I could cook enough for my children and the neighborhood kids, all I had to do was think of the event as though I was cooking for a large family. I was already doing it without realizing it. From that one event where I had cooked for 20 people soon turned to 50 people, and the next one turned into 100 people, and the rest is history,” Theresa shares.

Photos by Santana B. Photography

Photo

Bay Mitchell

“If God can take me from homelessness twice, give me a wonderful and supportive husband, Lou, take care of my children and give me a catering business, then anybody can do it. He is still the same God. What He did for me He can do for you, too.”

So how did a single mother of four become a well sought-after caterer? Theresa says, “I can truly share that starting Cherished Occasions was not easy, especially when you have four children with four different personalities to deal with. This business is a second chance at life for me, and it is also a legacy for my children. I am an African American woman who struggled with domestic violence and lived in a domestic violence shelter twice. You know, being homeless gives you a different type of drive. I mean I had four children, so I had to figure out how I would provide for them. They looked to me for safety, shelter, and food. When I tell you all of that was motivation enough to make me get up and make it happen. You know Romans 2:11 says, “For there is no respect of person with God.” If God can take me from homelessness twice, give me a wonderful and supportive husband, Lou, take care of my children and give me a catering business, then anybody can do it. He is still the same God. What He did for me He can do for you, too.”

Theresa, who is a native of Greensboro, realized for Cherished Occasions to be successful, she needed to refine how she organized her business. By accepting advice from her team and mentors, she soon realized that she needed to become a better listener, possess good energy, accept responsibility, and work through adversity. It suffices to say that Cherished Occasions has cultivated these essential elements. She shares, “I’ve been very fortunate to have all my children working with me at some point and time - - they don’t have a problem pitching in. Cherished Occasions was born out of necessity so it has always been hard work, but we have persevered and made it happen together. You must have good energy in your business. Energy is neither created nor destroyed, it’s simply transferred from person to person, so we try to make sure that we always have positive energy, especially when cooking.”

Theresa says there were some mistakes made, and they still have some challenges, but says they have all been neccessary. “My own son who had been with us from the beginning had to walk away from the business because it was too much. I was too much! I had to learn how to talk to my people. I’m used to multitasking, so I expected everyone to operate like me. I expected everyone to have my mindset, my heartbeat, my pulse, and my work ethic, but that wasn’t happening. I didn’t realize that I was causing my children stress, so their way of telling me that I was causing them stress was to tell me, “Mamma I quit”! That’s how I knew I had to change things. I had to learn how to talk to my children as adults and employees and listen when they voiced their opinions.”

Theresa shares she had to come out of mamma mode and go into employer mode. She had to learn how to switch those hats and found support from her husband, Lou. When things became tensious with her children as employees, they often reached out to him for assistance. It was then Lou realized he needed to step in and offer support. “Hey baby, listen I know you want to do this, but you have to listen to your team. You have to hear your staff. You’re working them to hard and you’re not working smart. Let’s see if we can do this differently,” Theresa states how Lou helped her. “How can I not listen to that advice, especially since he has over 26-years of restaurant experience.”

While Theresa attempted to operate Cherished Occasions solely by herself, she was wise enough to embrace God’s support. “I listened to my people; I listened to my mentors, and now I understand how important communication and listening are to having a successful business. I’m also grateful that I have my church community, too. I have a spiritual mentor, a business mentor, and I have a Sista Girl who checks me when I’m out of place. It’s important to have people in your life who care enough about you to tell you the truth and help you look at things from a different perspective. When you have a client down on the books, they don’t want to hear that life showed up. For example, my sister passed away on a night we had a catering event. We were very close,

and I was devastated. I just wanted to give in to my emotions, but one of my mentors told me there’s nothing I can do for her now. I decided to channel that energy and make that event happen for her. In doing so, my work ethic went to an entirely different level. Now I don’t see excuses. If I can get through that, I know I can get through anything.”

There are many catering options available for people to choose. What makes Cherished Occasions stand apart? According to Theresa, “You know I don’t think people realize that they eat with their eyes, first. It’s that initial introduction to the food that makes your tastebuds water. We specialize in Soul Food cuisine and decadent desserts. I believe our black excellence makes us stand out, too. People don’t expect black businesses to be punctual, professional, or have staff with pleasant attitudes. I knew I wanted to show the world that Cherished Occasions is different,” she says.

Photos by Bay Mitchell

It was important for Theresa that her brand didn’t look like anybody else; She says it was equally important that her food didn’t taste like anybody else’s either. “We are not your ordinary caterers because we have persevered through some adverse conditions to honor our obligations to our clients. These moments include catering for a wedding when a tornado came through Greensboro in 2018. The wedding was not canceled, and I kept thinking about how we were going to pull this off with no power. The only lights that were working were the chandeliers, and those were running off a back-up generator. Soon I heard a voice say, “Trust Me” and I said, “Okay, God”, He showed up for us and we rocked that wedding out for 100 guests! When we think God is saying no, it’s not Him saying no, it’s the devil trying to keep you from where you’re supposed to go. To me, adversity just lets you know you’re close to where you’re supposed to be.”

Another thing that makes Cherished Occasions stand out is their ability to prepare nutritious Soul Food. Their clients rave about their macaroni and cheese, and their honey butter is made from scratch so when you put it on cornbread, it’s just a party in your mouth. Their roasted and fried chicken is often a big request, along with mashed potatoes and green beans. They’ve also added a delicious vegetable medley to their menu. “We’re tickled when people who don’t eat vegetables compliment us on that dish,” Theresa says. They also have infused water for people who don’t like drinking water. Their desserts are very good as well. “The way we make our peach and apple cobblers with a caramel shot takes those desserts to the next level.”

Theresa says that when a room goes from chatter and laughter to the sound of forks scraping plates until they’re empty, it is all worth it. That’s love to them.

So, what can we expect from Cherished Occasions in the future? “I think I’m happier about where we’re headed because we know the future is bright for us. Like the song says, “Your future is so bright that you gotta wear shades” that’s where we are. Due to COVID-19 we had to restructure some things, which really worked out for our good. From adversity came Cherished Occasions To Go, and we now offer private and more intimate parties. I am very fortunate that my husband has been there for me this entire time, never taking a paycheck. He sacrifices his time off to help with the business and is right there with me in the trenches, shoulder to shoulder,” Theresa says.

Her advice to those who may follow in her footsteps is to believe in yourself and trust what God has given you. “You must be willing to think outside of the box and not be like everybody else. Cherished Occasions invokes happy memories. The Word of God shares in Ecclesiastes 9:7, “Go eat your food with gladness, and drink your wine with a joyful heart, for God has already approved what you do,” she says. It is clear that Cherished Occasions has received God’s stamp of approval.

Photo by Bay Mitchell

I Love To See You Smile

By Arielle Kilgore

Photos by Katrena Wize Artography

As much as people hate to admit it, the one thing that everyone notices is someone’s smile. It can brighten a stranger’s day or be the key to securing an interview. Our teeth are the first thing we cleanse in the morning, and hopefully, the last thing we do at night. No matter the cause, our mouth’s health should be a top priority. For over 15 years, Chiquita Jordan has made sure that you’re putting your best smile forward.

“I’ve always had a passion for caring and helping others,” she says”

In 2019, Chiquita Jordan decided to open her own business, Allure Teeth Whitening in Greensboro, NC. She offers 30 to 60-minute teeth whitening sessions and also installs tooth gems for clients who want to add a little bling to their smile. As a part of her services, she offers lip fillers, a newer service in her toolbox that is gaining popularity.

Chiquita is a Greensboro native and graduated high school as a single mother. Her personal challenges never stopped her from pursuing her purpose and dreams. After deciding not to finish her nursing pathway at North Carolina A&T State University, Jordan decided to pursue a career in Dentistry. She shares that Dentistry allowed her to do what she loved and still assist those around her. She received her certification as a Dental Assistant from Guilford Technical Community College in 2006. With well over 15 years of experience, her expertise ranges from working in pediatric, dental, and oral surgery.

Chiquita says her customers are always her top priority. She does acknowledge her soft spot for children and believes it is her responsibility to shape them and prepare them for a healthy smile for their future. “It is important to teach them the importance of good oral health at a young age. If they don’t take care of their baby teeth, they can affect their permanent teeth, something that will last for the rest of their life,” she says.

Starting proper oral care at a young age is not just the right thing to do, but it can also save a life. Chiquita says the health of teeth goes beyond having a pretty smile. It can affect the health of your body as well. She says, “Lowerincome families don’t receive education on how to take care of their teeth. As a result, it creates a lack of importance or the disconnect of teeth to body health. They don’t see the connection to their health, so I strive to inform everyone about proper oral hygiene.”

It is important to Chiquita to provide the clients of Allure Teeth Whitening with the best possible customer service experience. Her dedication is also the connecting tool that helps her clients trust her services. “The first thing you notice about someone is their smile. Someone always wants to make sure that their smile is always beautiful or white,” she explains. “I always wanted to help and care for others. That’s just mainly my passion.”

As a business owner, Chiquita believes that everyone deserves the care and service they desire. She also believes in giving back to her community. That is why she makes her services affordable for almost anyone. “It doesn’t matter what situation that they come from, I am here to serve everyone,” she says. Throughout 2021, she taught children how to take care of their teeth and volunteered in community events to provide dental care. One of these programs was Giving A Kid A Smile Day.

In the future, Chiquita plans to offer teeth whitening classes for those interested in learning more about the process. She also plans to bring her oldest daughter into the family business to keep her family close and provide them generational wealth and job security. When it’s all said and done, Chiquita says she hopes her legacy will be based on serving her community and providing everyone with a healthy smile.

To learn about Allure Teeth Whitening, please visit their website. www.allureteethwhitening.net h

Kreative Designs by Kim

By Terry L. Watson

Kimberly Perkins of Greensboro, NC, has a creative eye for design. She is the owner of Kreative Designs By Kim, LLC an event décor and design company for all occasions. Their services include free event consultation, fresh and silk arrangements, premium draping, balloon garland, and event favors. They also offer Engagement Decor, Bridal Shower Decor, Wedding Reception and Ceremony Decor, Baby Shower Decor, Birthday Decor, Milestone Celebrations Décor, Balloon Garland & Arch Décor, and Premium Draping and Design Decor.

Kimberly has over 16 years of experience in coordinating and event planning. “I am your ideal designer. I have spent endless moments committing my time to make my dreams a reality. Now, I work to bless others with a one-of-a-kind event. With each production, I apply inspiration, creativity, and imagination to ensure the events come out unique,” she says. Kimberly’s eye for detail and her ability to fully comprehend her clients’ needs and desires help keep her booked.

Kimberly strives to match her customers’ desired creative look and feel with each event. Kreative Designs by Kim focuses on event design and event décor. They offer affordable packages while creating memorable experiences that are unique and tailored for each client.

Kimberly shares that her company began in 2005, simply by word of mouth. “My focus has always been assisting with weddings, birthday parties, customized gift baskets, and floral designs. I guess word got around, and soon my business took off,” she says.

Kimberly creates a comprehensive outline with her wedding planning services that offer wedding coordination and event planning. She says this gives her time to completely orchestrate what her clients want to include in their event and an opportunity to illustrate how she will make it happen.

Kimberly shares what she loves most is the opportunity to create cutting-edge events for all occasions. “I’m inspired by the opportunity to work closely with my clients to develop and construct the entire decor and make sure that everything is in its place using my ideal imagination. My desire is to create a memorable atmosphere that’s uniquely created for each client,” she says.

Moving forward, Kimberly plans to offer larger-scale events, bolder floral designs, and efficient and inspiring events. She will also be offering and launching packages for small-scaled events. To learn more about with Kreative Designs by Kim, or to book a service, please visit their website or contact them directly.

Photos by Still Shots Photography

The Faces Behind a Purpose for You

By Ellen Richardson

Domestic violence has been an ongoing problem in states throughout the United States for many years, including Virginia. In fact, the Virginia Department of Health has reported that over one-third of homicides occurring in the state in the last few years are related to domestic violence. While many of these victims become just another faceless statistic, some are doing their part to help bring a face to the warriors who refuse to give up and give in. One such hero is Timika Cousins-Thompson, the founder of The Faces Behind A Purpose For You. A woman who overcame years of abuse is now turning this negative experience into a positive one by providing support and encouragement to others who have or are trying to escape domestic violence.

“Although I was a victim of domestic violence, I started this organization after losing a family member to this form of abuse,” said Timika. “This loss opened my eyes to what I was going through, and while that was hard enough, it also brought about something positive – it pushed me towards my purpose.”

The purpose she speaks of involves giving birth to an advocacy organization that gives individuals who have experienced domestic violence. It also provides individuals with an opportunity to learn from their circumstances and understand they can continue to progress in positive ways and settings, despite past experiences.

Focusing on the motto “it is not about us, it is about the lives that we can save” Timika offers life skills, individual development, enrichment activities, family support strategies, and activism to improve family relations and safe environments.

Photos Provided by Timika Cousins Thompson

“While I also had to overcome an emotionally abusive relationship, including the loss of one of my closest relatives to domestic violence, I make it a point to help others overcome. I strive to help others understand they are worth more and don’t have to endure emotional, verbal and/or physical abuse,” said Timika.

Timika and her partner, Washington D.C. native play writer, Michelle Lee have continued to follow their God-given purpose to do whatever is necessary to help those who are displaced by domestic violence. “While we don’t yet have a shelter, we offer support services such as court stewardship, legal assistance, life and job training, as well as any other services that are needed outside of housing,” said Timika. “We recently started a mentorship program for teenagers and work with schools to develop a dialogue about unhealthy relationships. Growing from pre-teen to a teen and teen to an adult has its challenges, so we decided to be that haven for them to turn to when they find themselves in an unfamiliar or dangerous situation. Before the pandemic, we were invited into Richmond Public Schools to speak and educate youth on healthy relationships, no matter their gender or sexuality, and we got a great response. Working with our local school systems is something that we want to continue.”

Timika’s organization also raised enough funds to hold a toy and food drive for needy families in the Richmond area during the holiday season. “It is interesting because we were able to share information about what we do and were surprised to have a few women ask for help during this time. I have always enjoyed helping my community and now doing so with a real purpose in mind feels very rewarding,” she says.

Timika says that domestic violence isn’t acceptable for anyone. If you are involved in an unhealthy relationship, please let someone know and speak up. To learn more about The Faces Behind A Purpose For You organization and to find out more information about the upcoming plays written by Michelle Lee about Domestic Violence scheduled for April and May 2022, please visit their website.

She Got Game League

By Terry L. Watson

One thing is for sure, Celia Newman has a special love for serving and helping others. She also has got game.

The Dyersburg, TN native has faced a few challenges in her life such as abuse and depression, though, with resilience, she has prevailed to be a woman who many depend on.

Currently, Celia heads the She Got Game League, an organization dedicated to empowering women in the world of sports. Their focus is to expose and encourage female basketball players, school-age to college and provide personal and career development tools to excel at the next level. “Our mission is to create a support system and platform to give them the tools necessary to be the best they can be in life,” Celia says.

Ceia launched SGG in January 2019 after noticing a lack of competitive organized women’s league in Memphis. “I wanted to give female basketball players the opportunity to not only play competitively but also provide them with a platform to gain exposure, play overseas, and acquire professional contracts. We started with six teams, and have since expanded in three years to a total of ten teams in other areas, including Chicago, IL, Nashville, TN, Huntsville, AL, and Houston, TX,” she says.

“I wanted to give female basketball players the opportunity to not only play competitively but also provide them with a platform to gain exposure, play overseas, and acquire professional contracts.”

Photos Provided by Celia Newman

Celia has a strong background in athletics. She was a high school standout with the 2005 State Runner-Up, Dyersburg Lady Trojans, and a former college student-athlete at Bethel University. Additionally, Celia has over ten years of experience working with athletes, both academically and athletically, in her role as an Athletic Trainer. She graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Athletic Training from the University of Tennessee at Martin and a Master’s Degree in Sports and Wellness Leadership from Austin Peay State University. She worked at the University of Memphis for two years as a Student Athlete Development Mentor for at-risk student athletes, and founded the Elite Level Prep in April 2015. She also co-founded the UpNext Sports Consulting Firm with her business partner Christian Ross-Francis in May 2020. In her career, Celia has mentored and assisted over 100 athletes.

Celia is very passionate about helping athletes succeed, not just in athletics, but more importantly life. She fuels her passion by serving others, specifically within her community. She is an active member of the Big Brother Big Sister organization and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated. “I love seeing women play the game they love and have fun doing it. I get to give back to my community by helping others become the best version of themselves. The women athletes in the SGG league inspire me with their stories of triumph. That alone motivates me to continue to give them the platform and environment to compete at a high level,” she shares.

She credits former WNBA Champion and Memphis Hall of Famer Ashley Shields with believing in the vision of SGG. “ I was struggling to get people to sign up in the beginning, and she spread the word and ignited the fire of what SGG has become. I am also grateful for the great sponsors that believed in me when SGG was small. These include Grind City Kicks, For The Kingdom Memphis, Building Blocks Mentoring Program, and The Awkward Agency. Their continued support has helped SGG become the hottest semi-pro women’s league in the MidSouth and beyond.

Celia has plans to expand the SGG league but admits she can’t do it alone. She is currently in the process of building her staff and acquiring more interns. Moving forward, she plans to reach more professional athletes and entrepreneurs with her partnership with UpNext Sports Consulting and continue to be a voice for women’s sports.

To learn more about the She Got Game League, please visit their website.

Monica Montgomery

The Happy Pen Creative Writing Services

By Terry L. Watson

For Monica Montgomery, her life has happened by way of the right opportunities.

Writing is something that Monica realized a love for early in life. The East Saint Louis, MO native was raised by a single mother and is the youngest in the family of four. She grew up and still resides in East St. Louis and shares she was blessed to be exposed to the greatness that East St. Louis is known for.

“I come from a creative family, so writing was a natural path for me. I love reading stories about mysterious people and magical places. However, it wasn’t until I wrote my first short story for the Young Author’s contest in the 5th grade that I believed I could create those people and places. The entire class was asked to write a story for the contest. I complained to my sister that I didn’t know what to write about. Annoyed, she said the most random thing she could think of. “Write about The Backwards City of Page.” She rattled it off as if it was a real place, and I should have known where and what it was. Then she said, “It’s where everything is backward!” With her help, I wrote my first piece of fiction. I was hooked from that day on,” Monica says.

Monica is the owner of The Happy Pen Creative Writing Services. Her company offers writing seminars, coaching sessions, and commercial writing for websites and personal projects.

Monica received a scholarship to Shaw University in Raleigh, North Carolina. She completed her Bachelor’s of Arts, English Literature, and music minor at Southern Illinois University, Edwardsville, and received her MFA, Fiction Writing from Lindenwood University, St. Charles. In 2020 she was selected to participate in the East St. Louis Urban Education Teaching Residency Program. The program was an intense ten-month accelerated Master’s degree program and helped Monica earn a Master’s in Elementary Education from National Louis University.

Today, Monica works as a first-grade teacher at Wyvetter Younge School of Excellence in East St. Louis. Professionally, she has written, directed, and produced several Christian plays and skits for her church’s youth group and spent the last fifteen years volunteering and mentoring youth in dramatic arts.

Photos Provided by Monica Montgomery

Her first short story was published in the Chicken Soup for the Soul series, “Chicken Soup for the African American Woman’s Soul,” in 2006. She has written her first novel series, “An Everlasting Love”. The first two books, An Everlasting Love: Concrete Soul and The Summer of Carlos, are available for purchase on Amazon. com, and the third book of the series will be released in June 2022. Additionally, she writes for I Am East St. Louis the Magazine and serves as V.P. at Top Dog Studios, a St. Louis-based independent film group.

Monica says what she enjoys most about writing is the ability to create a place of learning and escape simultaneously. “I love reading because I get to travel to far-off places and meet people from every walk of life and beyond. When I write, I don’t just want to tell a story; I want to create a space where the author, reader, and character meet in a harmonious ebb and flow. A place where one doesn’t exist without the other. The highest praise is when the reader or audience refers to a character as independent, free-thinking. I’ve had people walk up to me and say they have a love-hate relationship with one of my characters. The word that stuck out to me was relationship. As an educator, I love when a student gets it. Whether it be a first-grader learning to count by ten or someone taking up the challenge of writing, the light in their eyes is the same. It’s like a door they weren’t aware of opens, and they are breathing for the first time. It’s amazing to watch,” she says.

Like anyone else, Monica says she could spend hours talking about her wounds, woes, and regrets, but it wouldn’t change anything. Ultimately, it has been her trust in God that has carried her throughout her life. She shares, “In my late twenties, I was diagnosed with cancer. I have been in remission for fourteen years now, but it was a wake-up call. I could no longer wait for the life I wanted. I had to go out and get it. I never imagined myself as an author and a teacher. When I entered the Young Author’s contest in 5th grade, my teacher said she believed she had heard the story before and accused me of cheating. I knew I hadn’t, but it didn’t matter. I won second place in the district. The first prize went to a 6th grader. My teacher never apologized. and the damage was done. I have no children of my own, but I realized that my words and what I create with them are just as important to me as a child would be. Being honest meant exposing my “baby” to the world and subjecting it to public scrutiny and rejection. Any parent can tell you that hearing that your child isn’t good enough is painful, to say the least. To my surprise and excitement, readers are my writings, and I continue to trust God.”

Monica says the one thing she would have changed about her journey in life would be publishing an essay back in high school. “I believe it would have gotten me into professional writing much sooner. Then again, would I have gained the experience that I think contributed to the person I am today? Destinations are great, but life is in the journey,” she says.

“I love reading because I get to travel to far-off places and meet people from every walk of life and beyond. When I write, I don’t just want to tell a story; I want to create a space where the author, reader, and character meet in a harmonious ebb and flow.” h

Community Hero Action Group

By Arielle Kilgore

Photos Provided By Nicole McGruder

The phrase, “...it takes a village to raise a child,” stands true today in the life of Nicole McGruder. Most people don’t consider the foundation of that village, making sure it is sustainable and healthy for that child to grow. Nicole knew the importance of this and how her organization would be the roots of that village.

Nicole is the founder of The Community Hero Action Group. This non-profit organization educates the Black community about voting, health, and civic issues through community events such as online forums and town hall meetings. The organization also supplies resources and services to those in need.

Nicole says Community Hero is passionate about breaking the cycle of stagnancy in the African American community. The group is composed of well-trained and passionate individuals who work in underrepresented communities, especially the Black community, to close the void of progression where the community’s needs exist. “Our mission is to decrease the wealth and health disparities in the Black community utilizing education and strategic collaborations,to ensure we have a financially stronger and healthier Black community,” she says.

Nicole grew up in Philadelphia, PA but spent most of her childhood in California. Nonetheless, her adolescent years foreshadowed the various issues and topics she would be standing for. After high school, she lived in Ohio, attended Cleveland State University, and eventually graduated with a bachelor’s in English. Next, she received her Masters for Urban Planning Design and Development. After meeting and marrying her husband, Nicole moved back to Philadelphia, where she says the real work would begin.

“My passion is health. If we are not healthy, really nothing else matters.”

Nicole has always desired to serve and help anyone she could. She shares her life of service began in the emergency room on the night shift at Cleveland State University Hospital. She would also become a team lead assistant analyst and department administrator at Kaiser. She has also served as a caretaker for her mother-in-law. Her volunteer work has also involved her being a girl scout leader and serving on the board for Habitats for Humanity. Even as her life was being shaped, she knew there was still more to do.

She has served as the political action chair for the NAACP state conference of the 2020 election cycle, working on projects like voter registration, awareness campaigns, and advocating for civil unrest in communities. “It was the Golden Window. The first that ever happened in history that you could actually get your ballot, register to vote, and cast your vote all in the same day if you wanted to,” she says. Those opportunities and experiences led to the development of the Community Hero Action Group.

“I didn’t realize how much I love community engagement until I started with all the work that I was doing in 2020.”

The Community Hero Action group always brought light into Nicole’s eyes. She recalls the energy that was present even in the early development stages. “From the special voting events that were held with the sounds of Public Enemy playing, to the voting rallies held for black communities. While traveling to polling stations to influence underrepresented communities to take action, to the educational forums conducted on health and living disparities of African Americans; There was always positive energy present. Even still, Nicole always thought, what more could she do to help advance her people.

Nicole has committed to not just talk about the improvement of her community. She is actively seeking and building tomorrow’s leaders. “It all starts with health. We die at a higher rate than our counterparts from diabetes, high blood pressure, and stroke. That’s not because our bodies are faulty. It is because of systemic inequities,” Nicole explains. She is seeking answers and resolutions for those directly affected by these ailments. This has included collaborating with the Medical Society of Eastern Pennsylvania to provide a scholarship fund for Black students that will assist them with taking and preparing medical exams and more.

For Nicole, she believes her work is never done. From seeing African Americans displaced on the streets living in tents, to helping young girls believe they can pursue a career as a judge, she knows that her work is more important than ever.

The PA Engage Day event held at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia, Nicole says, gave the youth in her community a natural look into their futures. There was a youth mock court held with the Honorable Judge Nichols as a special guest. In the end, a student’s life was changed as she saw that she could be a judge as well.

In the future, Nicole would like to increase her organization’s presence and create attainable housing for poor African American communities. She also hopes to continue serving anyone who needs her help.

For more information about the Community Hero Action Group, please visit their website.

Ideas Unlimited Events LLC

By Terry L. Watson - Photos Provided By Ideas Unlimited Events LLC

If you require event planning services, Ideas Unlimited Events LLC is here to help. Owned and operated by Stefanie Crawford and Sade Adkins of New Jersey, this versatile design company prides itself on exceeding clients’ expectations with one-of-a-kind party setups. They provide customized productions such as backdrops, floor wraps, centerpieces, and more and can take any event, big or small, to the next level.

Stefanie and Sade combined their skill sets to form Ideas Unlimited Events LLC in 2016. In the beginning, their focus was making custom cakes and treats. “Our cake business quickly grew, and eventually, we began decorating our own children’s parties. After we posted our work on social media, people started calling and asking us to decorate for them. Soon we were producing small-scale events and eventually grew into larger ones,” they said.

Things have changed a little since the beginning. Their focus is exclusively on decorating parties and digital creations, which can be ordered directly from our website. Some of the other products and services offered by Ideas Unlimited Events LLC are custom party favors, backdrops, banners, yard signs, name and number tables, themed tables, balloon décor, complete party decorations, throne chair rentals, 360 Booth rentals, and more.

What separates Stefanie’s and Sade’s business model from other companies? Their approach and commitment to providing their clients with the best experience possible. Many event planners do amazing work in their area, but they aren’t deterred. Instead, they are determined to succeed. “We have to make sure we have fresh and new ideas so we can stay relevant.”We get to know our client’s wants and needs and aim to go above and beyond to bring their vision to life. We feel like artists changing a blank canvas into a beautiful, decorated room. We go above and beyond to customize our client’s event to ensure it’s not like anything anyone has already done. Furthermore, our event decorations can’t be purchased at a local party store,” they share. This year, they are planning to launch the Ideas Unlimited Design Academy. The new addition will allow them to teach techniques to up-and-coming event decorators or parents wanting to learn how to spice up their own child’s party or event.

Stefanie’s and Sade’s love for helping and serving others has proven to be vital for the success of their business. They both have always been creative, so this business only enhances that it gives them a platform to showcase their talents. Stefanie is a mother of four beautiful children and has three sons and one daughter. Stefanie has a Bachelor’s Degree in Writing Arts and Education and has been teaching for 11 years. She is currently grooming second graders in the Salem City School District. “I enjoy teaching, but my true love is event design and digital designing, and being my own boss,” Stefanie says.

Like Stefanie, Sade has a genuine nurturing spirit and a love for family. She is a mother to seven beautiful children, three of her own and four stepchildren. She is currently a full-time student majoring in education and still finds time to work on their business to ensure the needs of its clients are met. “I have always been creative and can make almost anything I put my mind to,” Sade says.

They both share how their children inspire them. “We didn’t have the best foundation growing up. We didn’t have a support team and pretty much raised ourselves and our younger siblings. We both had a child before we graduated high school, but we weren’t going to let that stop us. We used our struggle to motivate ourselves because we wanted more for our children and ourselves. We love watching our children witness our lives as bosses. Yet, they are also hands-on in the business and help when they have free time.” Stefanie and Sade have recently started a business for their children called Poppin Playsets where they set up bounce houses and toddler soft play areas at events.

For others who may follow in their footsteps, Stefanie and Sade offer some advice that may help along the journey. “Invest in yourself, and don’t be afraid to take constructive criticism. We have grown so much in the last few years because we are not afraid to learn something new and take advice from others in this business that we aspire to be like.”

Moving forward, in addition to their plans to launch the Ideas Unlimited Design Academy, they hope to continue to decorate and transform rooms and open a venue of their very own one day. To learn more about Ideas Unlimited Events LLC, please contact them directly or visit their website. h

The Sales Confidence Coach

By Terry L. Watson

Photos Provided by Brian K. McNeill

Brian K. McNeill of Charlotte, NC, is Brian K. McNeill is a true champion in the arena of “how to sell”. He has accumulated over 30 years of study and practice of professional selling. By his own count he has read over 700 books on Sales, Sales Management and Self Development. Brian has produced coaching programs, published several Best-Selling Books, and is committed to helping and serving others. The loving, caring husband and father is also a proud veteran of the US Army.

Brian is the founder of The Sales Confidence Academy. In this capacity, he provides training and certification for entrepreneurs. He is the current president of Virtual Team Network, a global online networking organization.

Brian exhibited signs of effectively communicating with almost anyone at an early age. He shares, “I entered the wonderful world of professional selling at the age of 23. That was 31 years ago. I soon came across some books about selling. After reading the first book, my interest grew, and before long, I had read several hundred books about sales. Some of the other topics were about Sales Management and Personal Development. The more I read, the better I became at selling. I eventually became a sales manager and my job. Sales and the knowledge and understanding of sales seemed easy to me, and soon I decided to start my own sales training company. Over the years, thousands of salespeople and entrepreneurs have benefited greatly from my sales training workshops, classes, and platform.”

Today, he is recognized as Brian K. McNeill, the Sales Confidence Coach. In this role, he teaches entrepreneurs and salespeople what to say and do, to ensure they are confident and prosperous in selling themselves and their services. His services include Sales Coaching, Sales Training, Sales Speaking, and Sales Workshops.

Some additional products include personalized and on-demand/self-paced sales training programs. He also has the Basic Essential Sales Training (BEST), a recorded seven-session curriculum covering the basic essentials entrepreneurs must know and the seven reasons why a client will say yes to you and your services. After completing the course, the entrepreneurs will have the correct language and confidence to sell their services successfully. There is also Get Profitable/Stay Profitable (GPSP), which includes everything in (BEST) plus a curriculum that teaches the entrepreneurs what to do with their time. Then finally, there is the Sales Confidence Course, the complete and updated course on How to Sell Your Services in today’s marketplace.

One of the books that Brian has published is The Shortcut! - The Fastest route to Selling You and Your Services so that you earn more money than ever before! Another book he has published is Asking for the Money - How anyone can close more Sales, even you! Another publication is a children’s book, Why Rhinos Make Great Sales People - Featuring Mr. Randall the Rhino.

Many of Brian’s typical clients are service-based entrepreneurs, Coaches and Consultants, Insurance and Financial Services Professionals, Attorneys, Accountants, and Bookkeepers.

Brian has also founded the M.E.N (Male Empowerment Networks of Charlotte). This organization is a Support Discussion group that meets virtually twice a month and has been doing so since August 2013. “We know that men need men, and teenage men need men. So we provide a safe and transparent space for men to talk about anything.,” he says.

Brian says he loves it when people take what he teaches them and earn more money as a result. “It brings me joy. I believe that God has uniquely gifted and qualified me to help people sell themselves and their services. My work is a ministry, and I honor God by helping people sell better,” he says.

Moving forward, Brian shares he will continue to make his workshops available, especially through online courses, so that people can take the training on demand.

To learn more about Brian K. McNeill, please visit his website.