What is your vision for the church library? What can we expect to see?
The vision is to stimulate God’s people to gain knowledge by using the resources provided in our library. I expect to see excitement, and those that hunger for more to take advantage of what has been made available to them.
How long do you think it’s been since the library was last used?
I could estimate that it has been well over 20 years since the library has been used.
Do you have an estimated time of completion that you can give us on when this will be done?
The hope is to unveil the updated library on July 12, 2009 to the entire church.
Is this a personal project that you’re doing, or will you need the assistance of the church to complete it?
I will definitely take advantage of the necessary assistance in getting the project completed.
What further and concise details can you give us about vacation bible school?
At this moment the curriculum is currently being constructed. There is currently one confirmed instructor, of which I’m delighted that when asked, gave no hesitation with accepting the task. V.B.S is scheduled to begin the 13th of July from 7:00pm – 9:00pm and end on the 18th of July which is a Saturday, 11:00am. The classes as of right now will be split into 3 groups… grade school to middle school, high school and the adult class. Our theme for this year will be Wisdom writings and Bible poetry. I look forward to having a successful session this year, and many more sessions in the future.
How, if at all, will this vacation bible school be different from those we’ve held in the past?
There is scheduled a mass review and celebration luncheon on this date. It is different than in times past, however I believe it will be an enjoyable event.
Will you need assistance/volunteers of any sort?
I’ll definitely need another volunteer to teach and am waiting for confirmation for the Chef who will prepare dinner in the evening.
I believe the big question that everyone wants to know is about how much longer do you think it will take before we reach breaking ground with this project?
Wow, uhm… We will hopefully break ground with this sometime in July, there is no definite date on this as of yet. A good businessman makes sure there is a cushion or reserve if you will of funds after such a large project is taken started. So we are just securing the cushion at this point.
As of now, do you have an estimate as to how much has been raised toward the parking lot?
What I can definitely say is some have given more than originally asked which has made up for those who just haven’t given @ all…
Approximately how much more do you think we will need to gather to attain the financial cushion we need to move forward?
A good cushion, would safely be the amount spent to get the job done.
What are the specifics of this project, what does the “paving” of the parking lot entail – the laying of pavement, lights, lines for parking spots, warranty?
The details are not readily accessible at this time; however I would be glad to visit this question again in the next issue of the newsletter.
Can you give us a glimpse into your overall vision for the functioning of the church - not pertaining to your assuming authority as Pastor in the future, but as far as these current projects are concerned?
The next few projects on the agenda would be adding an elevator to the building, replacing the windows and window frames, and making sure the building is maintained and kept in compliance with DC government regulations.
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Spring Cleaning: The Start of Something New
By Allen Johnson
Editor/Contributing Writer
Spring is here! And with the turning of the season comes each individual’s subconscious expectation to change along with it. Not uncommon to this season is the human urge to start afresh and rid oneself of the previous year’s accumulation. Many people take this time of year as an opportunity to start over, rectify past mistakes, and make adjustments to their personal as well as professional lives. New endeavors are pursued and those incomplete projects of yesteryear are put back on our list of priorities.
As it relates, you may soon be hearing much talk of upcoming projects to be completed within our church in the near future. Amongst these is the long awaited reconstruction of the church parking lot, the renovation of our church library, as well as the institution of a new kid friendly, adult free game room.
Also, fairly new to our campaign for change – almost a jumpstart in some respect - is our food bank initiative, headed by Sister Dorothy Dunn. Since its establishment in 2008, the food bank has shown great promise of success; however it has recently come to a standstill. We would like to continue moving forward with this program, gathering as many non perishable items as possible, for it will be of a great benefit and blessing to someone in need. As last reported by Sister Dunn “there have been several donations to date, [but] we do need additional donations... We seem to have come to a halt in the receiving department and would like to solicit the help of the Saints in continuing the project. I am thankful for those who have taken the time to contribute, and I pray that others will join in to keep the project afloat.”
Further, to be reestablished for the summer of 2009 will be our annual vacation bible school. Due to uncertain circumstances, we have not held vacation bible school in quite a few years, but we will resume with classes this coming July. Those who were last students of the intermediate class are now instructors of a new – oh how time flies! New to the order of things will be a course specifically for the adults. That’s right; vacation bible school is not just for the kids! And because of this adjustment to the organization, classes will be held from 7pm to 9pm to accommodate those that work during the day. It is worthy to note that this week of instruction is not reserved exclusively for the first united church of Jesus Christ, but is also available to the general assembly of friends and family that we individually have; so share the word.
It is long overdue for change and there are many things that have wasted away over the years as well as many rooms that have gone neglected. If memory serves me correctly, these rooms have not been utilized since my childhood (which is not a very good tale to the upkeep of the church) however, yesterday is gone and today is now. With the remaining time that we have been given, we should use it productively to the edification of God’s house and His people.
There is a statement that I personally quote, which simply says “be the change you want to see”. Albeit not profoundly deep, it does carry great weight. It’s not a statement of conviction, but it does charge us to be active in correcting that which we see is desolate. Please, let all that are willing to lend a helping hand do so. All contributions - whether material, physical, or even monetary- are all fully appreciated.
Now the goal of these projects is not merely cosmetic, but rather functionally essential. Our aim, however, is to revitalize that which years of neglect have rendered dead and gone; not solely for the bettered appearance of the church itself, but as reverential appreciation and worship unto God for that which He has entrusted to us.
As of yet, no specific dates regarding deadlines have been disclosed, but all projects are expected to be completed before the close of 2009.
Editor/Contributing Writer
Spring is here! And with the turning of the season comes each individual’s subconscious expectation to change along with it. Not uncommon to this season is the human urge to start afresh and rid oneself of the previous year’s accumulation. Many people take this time of year as an opportunity to start over, rectify past mistakes, and make adjustments to their personal as well as professional lives. New endeavors are pursued and those incomplete projects of yesteryear are put back on our list of priorities.
As it relates, you may soon be hearing much talk of upcoming projects to be completed within our church in the near future. Amongst these is the long awaited reconstruction of the church parking lot, the renovation of our church library, as well as the institution of a new kid friendly, adult free game room.
Also, fairly new to our campaign for change – almost a jumpstart in some respect - is our food bank initiative, headed by Sister Dorothy Dunn. Since its establishment in 2008, the food bank has shown great promise of success; however it has recently come to a standstill. We would like to continue moving forward with this program, gathering as many non perishable items as possible, for it will be of a great benefit and blessing to someone in need. As last reported by Sister Dunn “there have been several donations to date, [but] we do need additional donations... We seem to have come to a halt in the receiving department and would like to solicit the help of the Saints in continuing the project. I am thankful for those who have taken the time to contribute, and I pray that others will join in to keep the project afloat.”
Further, to be reestablished for the summer of 2009 will be our annual vacation bible school. Due to uncertain circumstances, we have not held vacation bible school in quite a few years, but we will resume with classes this coming July. Those who were last students of the intermediate class are now instructors of a new – oh how time flies! New to the order of things will be a course specifically for the adults. That’s right; vacation bible school is not just for the kids! And because of this adjustment to the organization, classes will be held from 7pm to 9pm to accommodate those that work during the day. It is worthy to note that this week of instruction is not reserved exclusively for the first united church of Jesus Christ, but is also available to the general assembly of friends and family that we individually have; so share the word.
It is long overdue for change and there are many things that have wasted away over the years as well as many rooms that have gone neglected. If memory serves me correctly, these rooms have not been utilized since my childhood (which is not a very good tale to the upkeep of the church) however, yesterday is gone and today is now. With the remaining time that we have been given, we should use it productively to the edification of God’s house and His people.
There is a statement that I personally quote, which simply says “be the change you want to see”. Albeit not profoundly deep, it does carry great weight. It’s not a statement of conviction, but it does charge us to be active in correcting that which we see is desolate. Please, let all that are willing to lend a helping hand do so. All contributions - whether material, physical, or even monetary- are all fully appreciated.
Now the goal of these projects is not merely cosmetic, but rather functionally essential. Our aim, however, is to revitalize that which years of neglect have rendered dead and gone; not solely for the bettered appearance of the church itself, but as reverential appreciation and worship unto God for that which He has entrusted to us.
As of yet, no specific dates regarding deadlines have been disclosed, but all projects are expected to be completed before the close of 2009.
No Weapon Formed Shall Prosper
By Elder Charles E. Dunn Jr.
Co Pastor/Contributing Writer
The Last day events are unfolding right before our very eyes. The economy is on a steady decline, violence has increased on a domestic front, children are killing children, and now the violence has invited itself to the church. Jesus said, “In the last days men would be lovers of themselves more than lovers of God.” Saints, now is the time for us as believers in Christ Jesus to make sure that we have on the “whole armor of God.” While some will fall away and not return, we have to make sure that we are dressed for the battle. Paul said we are troubled on every side, yet not in despair; persecuted but not forsaken, cast down but not destroyed. Nay even in all things we are more than conquerors.
Saints, through the power of the Holy Ghost we have been given all that we need to make it to the end. Faith in Jesus Christ our Lord and Him only is what is vital for us to make it in these last days. While the economy is in limbo, we have the promises of God [given to Abraham] extended to us that we would be lenders and not borrowers, heads and not tails, above and not beneath. We are blessed in our going out and blessed in our coming in. We are going to thrive during this time.
Currently, many people have to deal with issues regarding the loss of jobs, their homes, their vehicles, and some even their minds. Yet, through the word of God, we have the comfort in knowing that with every step, and in everything that we face, He is with us. For Jesus declares to His people, “lo I’m with you always, even until the end of the age.” We have been assured in Psalms 37, “ for yet a little while and the wicked shall not be; for they shall soon be cut down like the grass and whither as the green herb. Trust in the Lord and do good; so shalt thou dwell in the land, and verily thou shalt be fed.” For the Kingdom of God is not meat and drink. He does not depend on the world’s system to supply our needs, for the riches of the Lord are endless, which means your possibilities and means of thriving are endless.
Do not stress about it, but give praise for what the Lord is doing and what more He will do in your life. When you praise, God will do the impossible. For His word is true, and surely “no weapon formed against you shall be able to prosper.” There are no grey areas with the Lord and since the weapons will not prosper, you WILL thrive during the times when the enemy expects you to die. I shall not die, but live and declare the works of the Lord!!!
What can man do unto you when the Lord is on your side!
Co Pastor/Contributing Writer
The Last day events are unfolding right before our very eyes. The economy is on a steady decline, violence has increased on a domestic front, children are killing children, and now the violence has invited itself to the church. Jesus said, “In the last days men would be lovers of themselves more than lovers of God.” Saints, now is the time for us as believers in Christ Jesus to make sure that we have on the “whole armor of God.” While some will fall away and not return, we have to make sure that we are dressed for the battle. Paul said we are troubled on every side, yet not in despair; persecuted but not forsaken, cast down but not destroyed. Nay even in all things we are more than conquerors.
Saints, through the power of the Holy Ghost we have been given all that we need to make it to the end. Faith in Jesus Christ our Lord and Him only is what is vital for us to make it in these last days. While the economy is in limbo, we have the promises of God [given to Abraham] extended to us that we would be lenders and not borrowers, heads and not tails, above and not beneath. We are blessed in our going out and blessed in our coming in. We are going to thrive during this time.
Currently, many people have to deal with issues regarding the loss of jobs, their homes, their vehicles, and some even their minds. Yet, through the word of God, we have the comfort in knowing that with every step, and in everything that we face, He is with us. For Jesus declares to His people, “lo I’m with you always, even until the end of the age.” We have been assured in Psalms 37, “ for yet a little while and the wicked shall not be; for they shall soon be cut down like the grass and whither as the green herb. Trust in the Lord and do good; so shalt thou dwell in the land, and verily thou shalt be fed.” For the Kingdom of God is not meat and drink. He does not depend on the world’s system to supply our needs, for the riches of the Lord are endless, which means your possibilities and means of thriving are endless.
Do not stress about it, but give praise for what the Lord is doing and what more He will do in your life. When you praise, God will do the impossible. For His word is true, and surely “no weapon formed against you shall be able to prosper.” There are no grey areas with the Lord and since the weapons will not prosper, you WILL thrive during the times when the enemy expects you to die. I shall not die, but live and declare the works of the Lord!!!
What can man do unto you when the Lord is on your side!
Repentance & Redemption
By Chelisse Dunn
Contributing Writer
Let me ask you this: have you ever felt so far from God as if you were a stranger to Him? Have you ever been in a position where you wanted to do right, but evil always presented itself? Have you ever been in a place where you knew your will was weak and no matter how much you desired to strengthen your inward man, you became even weaker?
Well, saints, that was me not long ago. I was once in a place where I needed to know that God still knew my name; that He still considered me as His child; that He still had His hand on my life even though I felt so far from Him. My spirit man died and I was desperate for ANYONE to come to my rescue. I needed direction. I needed guidance. I needed hope. I felt so rejected from the people and things that I knew and loved. I struggled with my sin, as well as the fact that I turned my back on what I knew was right and as a result, paid a great price. Who I was diminished every time I saw the stares or heard the gossip—as if it were not enough that I constantly beat myself up with questions such as “how could this have happened to me?” “what was I thinking?” and “how could I allow myself to be in this situation?” I felt that this should have never happened to ME. Point Blank!
It is so easy to ask God for forgiveness and then turn around to sin all over again. Through my experience, I knew that I never wanted to hurt God again. Repentance is described as a deep sorrow, compunction, or contrition for a past sin, wrongdoing, or the like. I promised the Lord that I meant my walk with Him this time, and THIS TIME I was going to get it right. It was not until I got to that place in my walk where sin had an odor, that I was able to totally turn my back to sin and say “NO” to temptation, wipe my hands of it and completely walk away! And I will be honest enough to say that it is not an easy process - I am human and my flesh gets weak, but I love Jesus more than anything on this earth and I mean to make Him proud.
Redemption is the act of redeeming or the state of being redeemed; deliverance, rescue; atonement for sin; repurchase, as of something sold:
It did not matter how many times I went to the alter crying my eyes out asking God for His forgiveness, redemption did not fully come until I forgave myself. As they say, we are our worst critiques.
Through my experience I want to encourage someone out there who is struggling with life’s ups and downs to get to know who God is. In knowing who He is, you will know that He is an able God—able to deliver you out of any situation. I can truly say that I know Him for myself and the power of His resurrection—what a mighty God we serve. And I look forward to serving Him all of my days!
Contributing Writer
Let me ask you this: have you ever felt so far from God as if you were a stranger to Him? Have you ever been in a position where you wanted to do right, but evil always presented itself? Have you ever been in a place where you knew your will was weak and no matter how much you desired to strengthen your inward man, you became even weaker?
Well, saints, that was me not long ago. I was once in a place where I needed to know that God still knew my name; that He still considered me as His child; that He still had His hand on my life even though I felt so far from Him. My spirit man died and I was desperate for ANYONE to come to my rescue. I needed direction. I needed guidance. I needed hope. I felt so rejected from the people and things that I knew and loved. I struggled with my sin, as well as the fact that I turned my back on what I knew was right and as a result, paid a great price. Who I was diminished every time I saw the stares or heard the gossip—as if it were not enough that I constantly beat myself up with questions such as “how could this have happened to me?” “what was I thinking?” and “how could I allow myself to be in this situation?” I felt that this should have never happened to ME. Point Blank!
It is so easy to ask God for forgiveness and then turn around to sin all over again. Through my experience, I knew that I never wanted to hurt God again. Repentance is described as a deep sorrow, compunction, or contrition for a past sin, wrongdoing, or the like. I promised the Lord that I meant my walk with Him this time, and THIS TIME I was going to get it right. It was not until I got to that place in my walk where sin had an odor, that I was able to totally turn my back to sin and say “NO” to temptation, wipe my hands of it and completely walk away! And I will be honest enough to say that it is not an easy process - I am human and my flesh gets weak, but I love Jesus more than anything on this earth and I mean to make Him proud.
Redemption is the act of redeeming or the state of being redeemed; deliverance, rescue; atonement for sin; repurchase, as of something sold:
It did not matter how many times I went to the alter crying my eyes out asking God for His forgiveness, redemption did not fully come until I forgave myself. As they say, we are our worst critiques.
Through my experience I want to encourage someone out there who is struggling with life’s ups and downs to get to know who God is. In knowing who He is, you will know that He is an able God—able to deliver you out of any situation. I can truly say that I know Him for myself and the power of His resurrection—what a mighty God we serve. And I look forward to serving Him all of my days!
The Swine Flu: Biting Into This Pig's Tale
By Lisa G. Mitchell
RN/BSN, Contributing Writer
As you may have heard, as of April 2009 there is a new virus on the rise. The Swine influenza (also called swine flu, hog flu and pig flu) refers to influenza caused by those strains of influenza virus, called swine influenza virus (SIV), that usually infect pigs. As of this year these strains have all been found in Influenza C virus and the subtypes of Influenza A virus known as H1N1, H1N2, H3N1, H3N2, and H2N3. Swine influenza is common in pigs in the Midwestern United States (and occasionally in other states), Mexico, Canada, South America, Europe (including the United Kingdom, Sweden, and Italy), Kenya, Mainland China, Taiwan, Japan and other parts of eastern Asia.
The transmission of the swine influenza virus from pigs to humans is not common, nor has it always caused human influenza, but rather resulted in the production of antibodies in the blood. Like people, pigs can get influenza (flu), but swine flu viruses aren't the same as human flu viruses. Swine flu does not often infect people, and the rare human cases that have occurred in the past have mainly affected people who had direct contact with pigs. However, the current swine flu outbreak is different. It is caused by a new swine flu virus that has changed in ways that allow it to spread from person to person -- and is happening among people who have not had any contact with pigs. What is interesting is that you have to be in very close proximity (approximately 3 feet or arms length) to the infected person to catch it. For example, if the person infected with H1N1 Flu stands beside one uninfected and should happen to cough or sneeze and not cover his mouth or nose, it is quite likely that uninfected can become contaminated within that moment.
According to The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there is a wide range of symptoms which include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Several people have also reported nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Everyone should take daily precautions to stop the spread of germs, including the frequent hand washing. People who are sick should stay home and avoid contact with others in order to limit further dispersion of the disease. If you experience any of these symptoms and feel that you may have the swine flu, it is advised that you use your best judgment and visit your doctor or an emergency room where a medical professional can conduct a nasal swab.
Test results usually take about an hour to produce, but will let you know rather promptly if it is Influenza A, which is what the H1N1 (swine flu) falls under. Unfortunately, the test has to be sent to the CDC for confirmation and this may take 2 to 3 days. During the waiting period, it is expected that one do what they normally would to treat the flu. Get plenty of rest, drink tons of fluids, and take Motrin, Naprosyn or Tylenol to help with not only with the reduction of fever, but the aches as well.
Several testing sites aside from the CDC are being established within the immediate area. The Walter Reed Medical Center is expected to have a site erected within the next 2 weeks.
For further information on the swine flu and more answers to frequently asked questions, visit the website for the CDC at www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/ or feel free to contact me.
RN/BSN, Contributing Writer
As you may have heard, as of April 2009 there is a new virus on the rise. The Swine influenza (also called swine flu, hog flu and pig flu) refers to influenza caused by those strains of influenza virus, called swine influenza virus (SIV), that usually infect pigs. As of this year these strains have all been found in Influenza C virus and the subtypes of Influenza A virus known as H1N1, H1N2, H3N1, H3N2, and H2N3. Swine influenza is common in pigs in the Midwestern United States (and occasionally in other states), Mexico, Canada, South America, Europe (including the United Kingdom, Sweden, and Italy), Kenya, Mainland China, Taiwan, Japan and other parts of eastern Asia.
The transmission of the swine influenza virus from pigs to humans is not common, nor has it always caused human influenza, but rather resulted in the production of antibodies in the blood. Like people, pigs can get influenza (flu), but swine flu viruses aren't the same as human flu viruses. Swine flu does not often infect people, and the rare human cases that have occurred in the past have mainly affected people who had direct contact with pigs. However, the current swine flu outbreak is different. It is caused by a new swine flu virus that has changed in ways that allow it to spread from person to person -- and is happening among people who have not had any contact with pigs. What is interesting is that you have to be in very close proximity (approximately 3 feet or arms length) to the infected person to catch it. For example, if the person infected with H1N1 Flu stands beside one uninfected and should happen to cough or sneeze and not cover his mouth or nose, it is quite likely that uninfected can become contaminated within that moment.
According to The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there is a wide range of symptoms which include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Several people have also reported nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Everyone should take daily precautions to stop the spread of germs, including the frequent hand washing. People who are sick should stay home and avoid contact with others in order to limit further dispersion of the disease. If you experience any of these symptoms and feel that you may have the swine flu, it is advised that you use your best judgment and visit your doctor or an emergency room where a medical professional can conduct a nasal swab.
Test results usually take about an hour to produce, but will let you know rather promptly if it is Influenza A, which is what the H1N1 (swine flu) falls under. Unfortunately, the test has to be sent to the CDC for confirmation and this may take 2 to 3 days. During the waiting period, it is expected that one do what they normally would to treat the flu. Get plenty of rest, drink tons of fluids, and take Motrin, Naprosyn or Tylenol to help with not only with the reduction of fever, but the aches as well.
Several testing sites aside from the CDC are being established within the immediate area. The Walter Reed Medical Center is expected to have a site erected within the next 2 weeks.
For further information on the swine flu and more answers to frequently asked questions, visit the website for the CDC at www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/ or feel free to contact me.
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Crystal Aikin
In 2007, BET brought Gospel the singing competition "Sunday's Best" and introduced the nation to the vocal powerhouse and eventual winner, Crystal Aikin. The Tacoma, Washington native was nearly untouchable during the competition and won the hearts of countless viewers. On her debut project, Aikin offers a ten-track effort that quickly reveals her ultimate heart as a worshipper with a clear motive to reach the heart of God.
On the album, Crystal Aikin enlisted a new artists dream production team, made up of: "Sunday's Best" host Kirk Franklin A Song About Jesus; the PAJAM team of J. Moss and Paul D. Allen What If...(He Said No); and Gerald Haddon's ballad Even Me (my personal favorite).
All in all, her effort leans heavy on the worship element, as is evidenced on the album's lead single "I Desire More". Aikin delivers with vocal excellence that connects with the hearts of every listener. She delivers a solid debut that delivers well and shows that indeed America knows talent, not just "Sunday's Best". Her powerful vocals on her new release and remaining selection of songs make this album a soul-inspiring project.
- Tara Gatling
In 2007, BET brought Gospel the singing competition "Sunday's Best" and introduced the nation to the vocal powerhouse and eventual winner, Crystal Aikin. The Tacoma, Washington native was nearly untouchable during the competition and won the hearts of countless viewers. On her debut project, Aikin offers a ten-track effort that quickly reveals her ultimate heart as a worshipper with a clear motive to reach the heart of God.
On the album, Crystal Aikin enlisted a new artists dream production team, made up of: "Sunday's Best" host Kirk Franklin A Song About Jesus; the PAJAM team of J. Moss and Paul D. Allen What If...(He Said No); and Gerald Haddon's ballad Even Me (my personal favorite).
All in all, her effort leans heavy on the worship element, as is evidenced on the album's lead single "I Desire More". Aikin delivers with vocal excellence that connects with the hearts of every listener. She delivers a solid debut that delivers well and shows that indeed America knows talent, not just "Sunday's Best". Her powerful vocals on her new release and remaining selection of songs make this album a soul-inspiring project.
- Tara Gatling
Saturday, November 22, 2008
"Touched Up” by an Angel
Well known for her extrovert personality and boisterous laughter, what is little known of Carla Angel Gatling is her childhood dream and current endeavors to becoming an independent business owner. Gatling, 26, has been using her education and BBA in management to take advantage of several job opportunities, yet never losing focus of her true goal. I recently had the pleasure of picking her brain to see what drives her so intensely.
How long have you been doing hair?
I’m not really sure. I started when I was younger, braiding my neighbor’s hair, but I didn’t think of making it a career at the time. I always kept my hair done (or at least tried to [smiles] and then I started practicing on other people - mainly cousins. So…long story short, I’d say I’ve been serious about it for about 7-8 years and I’ve been licensed for a year.
What was the starting point for your wanting to do hair? Or when did you say to yourself ” this is what I want to do”?
I like to help people look good. Sometimes I can look at a person and [just] know what style would look good on them. I am an entrepreneur and always looking for ways to make money. I thought this would be a good business to get into since this is [of] interest to me. With my personality and attitude (not a bad attitude) … I’m not meant to work for anyone else but myself.
I know you went to school for business, how did that play a part in you wanting to do hair?
I chose my degree based on my long-term goal which is to own and manage my own Hair Salon & Spa. So I earned a BBA in Management, not for a “job” right now, but for a career [in the future].
And you actually went back to school for cosmetology, right?
Yes, after I graduated from Howard. I went to Cosmetology school full time.
So not only are you just a women’s hair stylist, but you are a licensed cosmetologist - so that means hair, nails, shape ups, the whole nine, right?
Yes [smiles] Hair. Nails. I’ve only done a shape up once, but practice makes perfect.
So you could give me a shape up, huh?
Sure, if that’s the look you going for.
Do you think I need a shape up? [laughing]
No…you rock the bald look so that wouldn’t be necessary [smiling]
Who frequents your styling chair more, men or women?
Women. I think men with hair (locks or braids) prefer women to do it, but men with close cuts and shape ups prefer a man to do it. [That’s something] I’ve learned just from talking to people about their hair.
What is your signature style?
Since I wore a roller wrap for probably 13 years (yes 13 years), I’d say that’s my signature style. In my opinion, for women with length on their hair, that’s the easiest way to keep your hair, wrap it!
What/who inspires you in life?
My family.
What/who inspires you as is pertains to hair?
My vision inspires me. I can see it all in color! That’s what pushes me to continue.
So, I know at one time you aspired to own your own business, is that still the case?
Yes.
And how long do you expect it to take before coming to fruition?
I’m really praying for it to come within the next 2 years, maybe before.
Okay, what else do you do (career wise)?
I’ve recently resigned from a job as a Bookkeeper. I am currently working as an EA.
How many jobs have you worked in the past?
This is my 3rd job.
Were they all a means to an end?
Yes, all my jobs were a means to an end. I may not have realized it initially, but I have been able to take something from each position I’ve held and I’ll be able to use it when I have my own business. With 2 jobs I’ve had, I was able to work full-time and go to school full-time, the best of both worlds :o)
How long have you been working both?
Since I graduated High School
How long do you plan on doing both?
A couple more years.
Where do you see yourself in the next 5 years?
I don’t put limits on Goa and what is in store for me. He knows my hearts desire, so we’ll see [smile/wink]
Lastly, do you have any advice for others that may be looking to start their own business?
Yup! If you want it, go after it! Don’t drag your feet. Never doubt your abilities and talents, and go after what you want. To avoid “shoulda couldas”, just do it! [playfully smiles].
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