The Voice of The Citizen
March 28, 2023
On The Cover: Jeanisha Bell- Walker
Nourish Your Curls, Love your Locks
Jeanisha Bell Walker is a licensed cosmetologist and the owner of the Natural Hair Nurturer salon in East Texas. She has been passionate about natural hair care for over 8 years and has dedicated her career to helping people embrace and care for their natural hair.
When Jeanisha started her cosmetology training in 2015, she quickly realized that there was a significant need for natural hair specialists in the East Texas area. "There wasn't a lot of information taught about natural hair," she says. "All the information provided was mainly about relaxed or straight hair. At that time, I had been natural for about 2 years and had a lot of questions that were not in the cosmetology textbooks."
This realization inspired Jeanisha to specialize in natural hair care and become a Natural Hair Nurturer. She wanted to provide her clients with the knowledge and tools they needed to care for their natural hair and help them embrace their unique textures and styles.
One of the most rewarding aspects of Jeanisha's job is helping her clients feel confident and beautiful in their natural hair. "I love seeing the smile on my clients' faces when they see their hair after a service," she says. "It's all about making them feel good about themselves and their hair."
Jeanisha say's, "natural hair has become a popular trend in recent years with more people embracing and celebrating their natural hair textures. Among the most popular natural hair styles and trends are the Afro, braids, twist outs, Bantu knots, and protective styles. The Afro has made a comeback as a timeless style, while braids come in different shapes and sizes, including box braids, cornrows, and twisted braids. Twist outs are great for adding definition and texture to natural curls, while Bantu knots create a unique and textured look. Protective styles like wigs, weaves, and extensions are always popular as they allow for low-maintenance styling and protect hair from damage. Ultimately, the best natural hair style is the one that makes you feel confident and comfortable."
Jeanisha is also passionate about dispelling common misconceptions about natural hair. She often encounters clients who believe that natural hair is unprofessional, doesn't need to be washed, or doesn't grow. "Natural hair is beautiful, diverse, and versatile," she says. "It can be just as professional and presentable as any other hairstyle, and it can grow just as long and healthy with proper care and maintenance."
In addition to her salon work, Jeanisha is also dedicated to educating others about natural hair care. She hosts workshops and seminars on topics like hair porosity, protective styles, and DIY hair care. She believes that knowledge is power when it comes to natural hair care and wants to empower her clients to care for their hair at home.
If you're looking for tips on how to care for your natural hair, Jeanisha has some advice. She recommends using gentle, natural hair products, deep conditioning regularly, and protecting your hair while sleeping. She also suggests avoiding overwashing and excessive heat styling, as these can damage natural hair.
Jeanisha's commitment to natural hair care has earned her a loyal following of clients who appreciate her expertise, passion, and warmth. She is a true Natural Hair Nurturer and is dedicated to helping people embrace and care for their natural hair.
Jeanisha Bell Walker is an inspiration to those who are passionate about natural hair care. Her dedication to her clients and her craft is admirable, and her expertise has helped many people embrace their natural hair textures and styles. We can all learn from her commitment to education, empowerment, and self-care.
From the Stylist Seat:
As someone who is considering going natural or transitioning to natural hair, This advice may be helpful:
- Do your research: Before making the decision to go natural or transitioning, take the time to research and educate yourself on what it means to have and care for natural hair. This can include learning about the different hair types, common products and techniques used for natural hair care, and identifying the best approaches that work for your specific hair type.
- Patience is key: Transitioning to natural hair is a process that takes time and patience. It's important to understand that it may take months or even years to fully transition to natural hair, and that you may experience a mix of frustration and excitement throughout the journey.
- Find a supportive community: Joining online forums or finding a supportive group of friends who have gone through the same process can be extremely helpful as you begin your natural hair journey. This community can provide encouragement, offer tips and tricks, and answer any questions you may have along the way.
- Experiment with different styles and products: Natural hair provides the opportunity to try out a wide range of hairstyles and products. Take advantage of this by experimenting with different styles and techniques, and finding what works best for you and your hair.
Embrace your natural beauty: One of the most important aspects of going natural or transitioning is embracing your natural beauty. Embracing your natural hair is a journey towards self-love and acceptance, and can be a powerful experience that helps to boost confidence and self-esteem.
In a heartwarming display of community spirit and dedication, Toonz Cuts, the well-loved local barbershop, was crowned the 2023 Business of the Year by the Angelina County Citizens Chamber of Commerce. This accolade is a testament to Toonz's unwavering commitment to the community he serves. Now, as the back-to-school season approaches, Toonz is gearing up to host his annual back-to-school benefit on August 6, 2023, at his barbershop, located at 509 E. Lufkin Ave., Lufkin, Texas, 75901. This exceptional event aims to ensure that students begin their school year with confidence by offering complimentary haircuts and a shoe giveaway. It is an occasion where the community can come together to celebrate education and make a difference in the lives of young learners. For over 13 years, Isaiah Menefee, affectionately known as Toon, has been an integral part of the Lufkin community as a dedicated barber. His passion for his craft goes beyond just haircuts; it extends to positively impacting the lives of those he serves. Toon has become a beacon of support, providing more than just grooming services to his customers. With a warm smile, infectious enthusiasm, and an attentive ear, Toon has created a space where everyone feels welcome and valued. He goes above and beyond, understanding that a haircut can boost confidence and set the stage for success, especially for students entering a new school year. Toonz Cuts' annual back-to-school benefit stands as a testament to Toon's unwavering dedication to empowering students within the community. This year's event, set to take place on August 6, promises to be an unforgettable experience for students and their families. The primary objective of the benefit is to ensure that every child steps into the classroom with confidence, free from concerns about their appearance. To achieve this, Toonz Cuts will be offering complimentary haircuts to all students attending the event. With the skilled hands of Toon and his team, children can walk out with fresh, stylish haircuts that make them feel ready to take on the world. Beyond the haircut experience, the back-to-school benefit will also feature an exciting giveaway, adding an extra layer of anticipation and joy to the event. Students in attendance will have the chance to walk a way with the complete package, school clothes, shoes, and backpacks. This aspect of the benefit not only lightens the financial burden on families but also fosters a sense of community support and goodwill. Toon and his team firmly believe that every child deserves an equal opportunity to succeed, and they are determined to provide this support in any way they can. Toonz Cuts' back-to-school benefit is not only a celebration of education but also an invitation for the community to come together and make a meaningful impact. The event is open to everyone, and attendees are encouraged to participate by donating school clothes, shoes, and backpacks. These contributions will help ensure that every student receives the necessary supplies to start the school year off right. Toon's vision extends beyond the immediate benefit. He understands that education is a lifelong journey and recognizes the importance of nurturing the next generation. By supporting students and instilling in them a sense of confidence and community, Toonz Cuts is contributing to a brighter future for Lufkin and its residents. Toon's journey from a local barber to Business of the Year is a testament to his unwavering commitment to the Lufkin community. His annual back-to-school benefit at Toonz Cuts is a reflection of his dedication to empowering students and fostering a sense of confidence as they embark on their educational journeys. On August 6, 2023, the community will come together to celebrate education, provide free haircuts, and give away essential supplies to students in need. Toonz Cuts has proven time and again that its impact reaches far beyond the barbershop, reminding us all of the power of compassion, support, and the collective effort to make a positive difference in the lives of others.
The Mr. & Miss Juneteenth Pageant 2023 took center stage recently, captivating audiences with its theme, "Welcome to Dreamland: A Tribute to Dreamland Theater." This annual pageant showcased the remarkable talents and creativity of seven contestants, aged 4 to 13, as they paid homage to black iconic entertainers and celebrated African-American culture. With four captivating categories, the pageant celebrated history, individuality, and the power of dreams. The theme of this year's pageant, "Welcome to Dreamland," paid tribute to the iconic Dreamland Theater. Dreamland Theater holds great significance as a historical gem. It served as a gathering place for African-Americans during a time of segregation, providing a platform for talented black entertainers who were often overlooked in mainstream venues. Dreamland Theater became a symbol of resilience, unity, and the power of dreams, making it the perfect inspiration for this year's pageant. Category 1 & 2: Theme Wear and Commemoration The contestants demonstrated their creativity and knowledge of black iconic entertainers by dressing in costumes that honored their chosen figures. They took the stage with grace and confidence, embodying the spirits of these legends. Moreover, each contestant delivered an elevated speech, sharing the significance of their chosen entertainer and their impact on black culture and history. This category served as a powerful reminder of the remarkable contributions made by these trailblazing artists. Category 3: Talent Showcase The talent segment allowed each contestant to shine by showcasing their unique abilities and paying tribute to their chosen entertainer. From original performances inspired by their idols to stunning displays of dance, music, and more, these young participants brought the stage to life. Their performances were a testament to the enduring legacy of black entertainers and their immense influence on the arts. Category 4: Formal Wear and Elegance In the spirit of Dreamland Theater's patrons, the contestants graced the stage in their finest formal wear. Each individual exuded elegance, poise, and confidence as they walked the runway. Their attire symbolized not only their personal style but also their aspirations, embodying the dreams and ambitions that Dreamland Theater represents. The pageant concluded with the announcement of the four well-deserved titleholders. Grace Trotty, as Tiny Miss Juneteenth, celebrated Vice President Kamala Harris, highlighting her accomplishments and impact. Davion Yarbrough, as Tiny Mr. Juneteenth, delivered an impressive performance paying homage to the legendary Michael Jackson. C'Riah Tolbert, as Little Miss Juneteenth, honored the late Tina Turner and showcased her talent. Finally, Paisyn Hale, as Jr. Miss Juneteenth, captivated the audience as she spoke about the renowned artist Beyoncé, emphasizing her influence and cultural significance. The Mr. & Miss Juneteenth Pageant 2023 was a memorable event that beautifully highlighted the talent, heritage, and aspirations of its young participants. Through their performances and tributes to black iconic entertainers, they embodied the spirit of Dreamland Theater and its legacy. This pageant not only celebrated African-American culture and history but also empowered the next generation to embrace their dreams, express their individuality, and honor the extraordinary individuals who paved the way for them. The Mr. & Miss Juneteenth Pageant 2023 was a true testament to the power of dreams and the enduring influence of black entertainers on our society. For more information on the Mr. & Miss Juneteenth Pageant 2024 Please contact : Mrmissjuneteenthlufkintx@gmail.com