Veterans Growing America

Inside VGA

A My City Connected Publication

NOVEMBER 2024

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HOW TO START AN ONLINE BUSINESS FOR LESS THAN $100

It’s easier than you think. When you join the My City Connected Small Business Club, you will get everything you need to start and operate your online business for $1 a month for an entire year! *ADDITIONAL BENEFITS FOR VETERAN OWNED BUSINESSES.

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DMV Events Group

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3rd Conscience

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Let Them Eat Cake

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Ellyn Cox Designs

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ELW Initiative

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ALPHA VI BATTALION

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REAFFIRM VIBES

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Leroy Brown Art

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XPOH2O

XPOnential Hydration for All Hair Types!

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BELLA LUNA CREATIONS

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We align human dynamics with organizational development.

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Wellness Remedies, Etc.

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A.T.L. Perfume Chick

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Running Name, LLC

We aid businesses and non-profits through security and design while creating a benchmark for online safety.

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Setting Trends | Amplifying Heroes | Inspirational Apparel

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Lotions, Scrubs, Oils, Etc

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GemZoanWorld

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House of JITB

Look good and feel good without spending a fortune.

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Uplift Energy Coaching LLC

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Mindset, Health & Wellness and Organizational Development

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All Inclusive Luxury

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Growing the DMV

A COMMUNITY RESOURCE MAGAZINE WHERE VETERANS UNITE IN AN EFFORT TO UPLIFT THE COMMUNITIES WE SERVE.

The “Growing the DMV” digital publication is the result of a joint effort between the My City Connected Corporation and Veterans Growing America LLC. Two organizations who are on a mission. A mission to provide economic and educational opportunities to EVERY American.  

This digital publication is dedicated to and exclusively supports small businesses, nonprofit organizations, aspiring entrepreneurs and the communities they serve. The businesses you will see in this digital publication will range from recent as yesterday startups, to long time small business owners you may recognize from your community.

GROWING THE DMV is not just a directory of local businesses, it is a business hub where anyone can find the support they need to start and operate an online business at a cost of only $1 per month for an entire year with no contracts or obligations through our partners at My CIty Connected. Find out more about this and other “Opportunities” that help make lives better for our veterans and civilian persons alike.  Swipe right or left to see the latest announcments. Click the menu button below to explore DMV communities.

First We Defended, Now We’re Growing America

Our Mission

Veterans Growing America provides a forum for Veteran and Military Spouses to showcase and grow their businesses. Partnering with local, state and federal veteran organizations to increase their brand awareness.

We conduct local events, and marketing programs to increase engagement with the veteran business community. A national movement that helps veteran businesses get the resources and support needed to succeed.

Our Vision

Our Vision is to be the premiere events and technology company that supports the growth and development of veteran and military spouses while attracting Americans to shop veteran first.

Our Values

Our unique value is that we Grow Relationships and Opportunities Worldwide for veteran and military spouse entrepreneurs.

Veterans Growing America is also a charitable organization – 501(c)(3) tax exempt- providing entrepreneurial educational & resources to military connected communities.

202-932-0700   |   571-969-1017

Our mission is to educate, share, and transfer our love and joy of fishing to all who have a desire to participate.

 

On the Hook

– It’s about more than fishing, it’s about fellowship – 

​WeFish2 was started by a group of men who have a pure love for fishing and fellowship. The sea belongs to those who desire to learn the it’s power and beauty. ​We believe in being fishermen and fisher’s of men by connecting people to the sea and land through the joys of fishing. 

​We desire to share our love of fishing through education, representation, and celebration. WeFish2 is a divine vision given to us aimed at learning essential life skills and values through fishing.  Fishing is more than just a fun pastime, it’s a lifestyle.  The truth is, you can buy happiness, and it’s called fishing gear. ​

WeFish2 carries sporting and outdoor active wear that aim to keep you looking reely good while doing what makes you happy. Take a break from the bait and check out our newest WeFish2 gear.

 
 
 
Website

My City Connected

How to start a business for less than $100

Embarking on a business venture doesn’t have to break the bank. With careful planning and smart choices, starting a business with less than $100 is possible when you join the My City Connected Small Business Club.

Let’s start with the Startup Costs:

1. Business Plan – FREE
2. A name for your business – FREE
3. A Business License – Varies city by city but most range between$25 to $75 annually.
4. Open an account on the My City Connected Social Netowrking platform – For $1 per month for an entire year you will get a fully functional ecommerce store with everything you need to operate your business online.

BUT… What kind of business can I start?

Here are 20 online business you can start today at little to no cost:

1. Pet walking and sitting – This idea requires no initial investment. Start by asking your friends, family, and neighbors if they need someone to watch their pets when they go out of town or if they want someone to walk their dog during the day.
2. Tutoring – Students from elementary school to college need assistance in every subject. If you have expertise in an area, starting your own tutoring service can be a great business to create with no money! All you’ll need to do to begin is advertise your services.
3. Cleaning Service – If you love to clean, share your services on social media and with family, friends, and neighbors. Your only costs will be cleaning supplies.
4. Selling used goods – This will cost you literally nothing. Find some things around your house that you don’t use and sell them. Want to go a step further? Look for stuff around town people put out to take for free, pick it up, and sell it.
5. Freelancing – Are you a writer, web developer, graphic designer, or have another technical skill? As long as you have a laptop and internet connection, you can be a freelancer.
6. Handyman – If you enjoy making minor household repairs, like changing electrical outlets or fixing leaky faucets, then being a handyman (or woman!) is an in-demand business you can launch without a lot of money.
7. Social Media Management – If you spend a lot of time on social media already, why not get paid for it? Many businesses want to be active on social media, but don’t know what to do. Get started by searching for small businesses in your area and pitch to them how you could help their following grow. This would mean Instagram influencer outreach, finding key opinion leaders, managing social media scheduling, etc. This won’t cost you a dime. Your social profiles are your resumé here (and those are free)!
8. Senior Home Companion – In the U.S., almost 27% of adults over 60 live alone. The older people get, the harder it is for them to function with ease. This means many seniors need someone to keep them company, help with various daily activities, or provide advice to their families on how to care for them.
9. Virtual Assistant – In our post-Covid world, a lot of executives are moving toward hiring remote assistants to organize their work life and schedule. You could actually do this job for multiple companies. This would include jobs like managing their other remote employees, taking care of content scheduling, managing customers, updating their online store, etc.
10. Project Management – Not all companies have project managers on staff. A freelance project manager could be a huge relief for a small business in need of someone to oversee projects.
11. Consulting – You can begin your own consulting agency if you have knowledge or expertise in a particular field. Legal advice, strategic branding, and marketing consultants are always in-demand.
12. Photography – Own a nice camera and have an eye for the perfect shot? You could be a photographer for family pictures, weddings, and graduations. Do a few gigs for family and friends for free in exchange for permission to post, then put together a portfolio.
13. Bookkeeper – Offer to keep financial records for business in your area. In small businesses, this often gets left to the owner who doesn’t have the time or skill to do it. It’s a business you can start with no money and do it from home.
14. Translator – If you fluently speak multiple languages, you could be a highly sought after translator. Schools, courts, and non-profit agencies are just some of the organizations that always need quality translators.
15. Cleaning Gutters – Cleaning out the nastiness in gutters is something a lot of homeowners prefer not to do. If you already have an extension ladder, you are good to go!
16. Window Washing – Getting windows clean is one of those jobs homeowners can easily neglect. If you own a ladder, a bucket, and a squeegee, you’re ready to make money.
17. Baking – If you love to bake, share the goods! For the cost of flour, eggs, and oil, you can start selling your baked goods around your neighborhood and in your very own store in the MCC Marketplace.
18. Home Inspector – You can offer music or voice lessons in your home or by going to the home of your students. Some music stores even offer space to rent for instructors.
19. Personal Organizer – People have stuff. A lot of it! Many people don’t know the best way to organize their home. You can start helping people get their space in order.
20. Resume Writing and Editing – There are a lot of people who would be fantastic at the job they’re applying for. There’s just one problem: they’re not great at writing. You can help them by sprucing up their resume and cover letter.

MARKETING AND OPERATIONAL COSTS?

When you join the My City Connected Small Business Club, you can save THOUSANDS of dollars in marketing and day to day operational cost.

Watch the video below to find out how My City Connected works.

GET STARTED TODAY

About Moonlit Cards & More

     Hi, I’m Christy. After a 20 year career in the Army, I wanted to explore my creative side. I started working with paper crafts (i.e. greeting cards) before exploring other art mediums. My primary medium is now resin and I specialize in creating unique pieces with the goal of bringing joy and beauty into your life. All my pieces are carefully crafted with passion and attention to detail and come in a variety of styles and colors.

     I am passionate about bringing a unique, personalized touch to resin and my art creations are designed to bring beauty and light into your home. My one-of-a-kind pieces are sure to bring a touch of beauty and creativity to any space. Whether you’re looking for something to brighten up your living room or a gift for a friend, you’ll find something special at Moonlit Cards & More.

Veteran Owned Small Business

Welcome to CME Enterprise LLC where we provide accessories ranging from lanyards to fashion jewelry. We also offer local social event planning services. 

We provide convenient, affordable, high-quality accessories and services which are customized to fit the
needs of each customer. We partner with trusted manufacturers and vendors to bring you nothing but the best. We are working towards making our store a one-stop shop for all our customers accessory and event planning needs.  

When you are ready to place an order or if you have any questions, please send us a message, and we will respond promptly. 

Thank you and we look forward to doing business with you.  

 

DMV Events Group

We Are Glad You Have Awakened!

OUR FOUNDER:

Mr. Donnell Edward Johns Jr., B.S. is a Hampton University Alumnus with a Bachelor’s of Science in Biology. He is the son of Mr. Donnell E. Johns Sr. and Mrs. Tanda L. Johns. Throughout his life he has been raised to be a very openminded and spiritual person. He created this brand with nothing less in mind than the morals and lessons he has been taught throughout his short 22 years on this rock we call home as well as the experiences that he has had on his own.

OUR PURPOSE:

3rd Conscience is a spiritual streetwear brand meant for those who believe not only that the mind has power but that life is all about perception. The saying, “life is what you make it,” really rings true, for it is your perception and perspective of different events and situations that affect the path you take when dealing with them. This brand is about making the most of the time you have here on earth and being present within every moment turning your thoughts into actions, something I think everyone should know and work toward. We as humans are given such a short amount of time and often limited resources to make do and become successful. We spend our lives searching for a purpose, for love, for happiness and some of us never find it. We all try to be good and know right from wrong often ignoring the devils on our shoulders. However, at the end of the day YOU are the one who decides what to do, YOU are the creator of your own path, YOU are the writer of your own story and the only time to take action…. is now. You are not your mind, you are not your body, you are not your thoughts, you are not the angel nor the devil on your shoulder… you are the one aware and in control of them all. Mind What You Manifest 111.

Let Them Eat Cake

Welcome to Let Them Eat Cake LLC! Catering & Personal Chef Services

 

We are a black-owned artisanal bakery that specializes in custom cakes, desserts, and pastries all made from scratch and for all occasions. Established in 2015, we are based in Northern Virginia and we specialize in baking for all events be it a wedding, birthday, anniversary, holiday, or any other occasion. Check out our custom orders page to start planning your occasion! We hope to expand into personal chef services provided by our trained Chef Donnella Pearson.


VISION

My vision for Let Them Eat Cake LLC is to thrive as a community friendly based business, where we can provide future generations and foodies the joy of cooking. I want to share my passion for cooking through my food catering private/ public events, and help spark people’s imaginations with custom creations they design themselves.

 
 
 
 

Chef Donnella Pearson
Chef Pearson is an award-winning chef and the owner of Let Them Eat Cake LLC, with over 10 years of experience in fine dining and catering. She has secured first place in several cooking competitions in the DMV area and is passionate about teaching youth the art of cooking.

 
 
 
 

Kiara Wright
Kiara Wright is a student at Johnson & Wales University, majoring in Baking and Pastry Arts for her associates degree and pursuing a bachelor’s degree in business. She is deeply passionate about baking and is eager to expand her knowledge and skills in her baking career.

Here are a few samples of my work.

WELCOME

VET2VET Advocacy & Disability Claims LLC. Need VA Appeal Claim help?

“The Ethical Alternative” to VA Disability Claims for Veterans and Active Duty Transitioning Service Members.

VET2VET Mission Statement

Our Mission is to provide a “Hand-Up” to Veterans and Transitioning Service Members while assisting them with their VA Disability Claim. We are committed to provide exceptional service to all who served and have put it all on the line. We are dedicated to excellence, quality service and integrity as we serve those who have sacrificed so much for our Country.

Our Team

Our team of experts have over two decades of experience in the Veterans industry. We are committed to providing quality service and individualized support to our Veterans.

Our Services

We offer a range of services to meet the unique needs of Veterans and Transitioning Service Members, from Advocacy, Coaching, to assiatance with properly filing their VA Disability “Appeal” Claim. We are here to be of Service to You!!

ELW Initiative

Evie is a woman of faith and believes that the right information, environments, experiences, and opportunities can change a “poor” or “lack, scarcity” mindset to an abundant mindset which will in turn change anyone’s situation. She is dedicated to providing personal coaching, mentorship, and guidance, helping anyone on their personal growth and success journey. Evie’s daily success habits of prayer, meditation, gratitude, leading with love, a positive attitude, mentorship, and coaching are imperative for her in life and in business. She believes that it is through the power of belief, developing a belief system, having a vision, setting goals, consistently working towards those goals, acting despite the fear, and continuously stretching yourself that you can and will achieve success. And urges everyone to trust the process, fail forward, and fall in love with the journey, but most importantly understand that when you focus on yourself you are making an investment in yourself, but you are not doing it by yourself!

ALPHA VI BATTALION

Alpha VI Battalion: Beyond Clothing

At Alpha VI Battalion, each thread weaves tales of valor and steadfastness, embodying the essence of the noble few who stood in defense of liberty. Our clothing line transcends mere fashion; it serves as a testament to the undying spirit of the approximately 6% of Americans—the selfless veterans—who stood vigilant in freedom’s shadow, asking not for accolades but to serve. Our designs capture the essence of their boldness and sacrifices, offering not just garments but a canvas of honor, a chronicle of grit that speaks to the heart of those who understand the weight of service.

By choosing Alpha VI Battalion, you drape yourself in more than fabric; you don the legacy of patriots. Our collection is a pledge of remembrance, a salute to the camaraderie and the unspoken bonds forged in the crucible of service. With every piece, we invite you to embody pride, respect, and heartfelt thanks to those who have worn the nation’s uniform. Stand with us, not just in style but in a committed show of solidarity. Celebrate the heroic odyssey of our veterans; let their stories of bravery and honor resonate in every fiber of what you wear. Join the Alpha VI Battalion—our mission is to honor the past as we clothe the future.

 

REAFFIRM VIBES

Reaffirming and Positive Vibes!

Reaffirm Vibes  is an affordable luxury brand dedicated to promoting positivity and empowerment through the art of fragrance. We specialize in crafting high-quality personal body items as well as home fragrances such as candles, and room spray by using eco-friendly, all-natural ingredients.

Our mission is to reaffirm the positive in people’s lives by infusing their spaces with scents that uplift the spirit and inspire personal growth. 

At Reaffirm Vibes, we believe that every moment is an opportunity to cultivate a positive mindset and create an environment that reflects our inner strength. Our products are designed to be more than just fragrances; they are tools for empowerment, encouraging our customers to embrace their best selves and shine brightly in their daily lives.

Elevate your space… elevate your mind.

LEROY BROWN ART

Welcome

There’s much to see here. So, take your time, look around, and learn all there is to know about us through our previously sold artwork, blog, bio, accomplishments, or product feedback. We hope you enjoy our site and take a moment to review one of our products.

XPOH2O

CEO About Us pic
 

About Our CEO

 

I struggled in 1992 with my 4B-4C hair. It was a tight texture, dry, thick, wiry and unruly. The challenge was finding a product that would be healthy, hydrating and define my curls. Using protective styles to transition from a relaxer to braiding, crochet styles, twist outs and silk presses would not last long. 

​

Frustrated with the current products that made my hair dry, brittle, frizzy, and all contained oil and petroleum; I researched tons of products. However, there was no product on the market to solve my problem. The answer was to create my own! XPOH2O was born and specially formulated to provide water-locking hydration with soft, bouncy, defined curls!

-Linda Hamilton, Founder/Owner

Our Mission

What Sets Us Apart
 

The XPO H2O HC provides a platform for healthy hair to be seen differently, while in a
nurturing environment of moisture. We endeavor to create bountiful curly hair by utilizing the water-soluble ingredients that constitute the balance the hair really needs. XPO H2O HC is committed to creating innovative ways of ensuring that our vision is brought to life and seen through your healthy hair.

What Keeps Us Going

The XPO H2O Hair Care support generations of wavy, curly, and coily hair customers, which will positively and in a healthy way transform how they wear their natural hair. XPO H2O HC strives to ensure that we cultivate a culture of not compromising healthy hair, which affects women socially, psychologically, physically and ultimately our well-being. We believe that when the hair is balanced, it will thrive in a healthy environment. This will ensure that XPO H2O HC products are successful in all their endeavors and pursuits to share healthy beautiful hair within the communities in which we live and beyond.

BELLA LUNA CREATIONS

 

Women Apparel

 

Tumbler Wraps Digital Designs

 

Travel Accessories

Explore beautiful designs from Bella Luna for a stylish touch to your wardrobe. Elevate your fashion game with our curated collection.

Discover the colorful world of Bella Luna’s Tumbler Wraps Collection, an online destination where creativity meets practicality. Each design in our collection is carefully crafted to reflect a unique personality and style, ensuring that every one of your projects stands out. Our diverse range of designs spans various themes and aesthetics, including elegant flowers, bold abstracts, quirky illustrations and much more. These ready-to-print designs are perfect for personalizing your tumblers, whether for personal use, gifts or business branding.

With solution-focused ​ coaching, consulting, planning, and training, we provide solutions for leadership, DEIA+A, and well-being to meet goals or challenges! ​​ We grow cohesive teams, expand a multigenerational workforce, build new programs, advance a healthy culture and climate, and create strategic plans.

The Achieve More LLC mission is to help organizations and professionals be better, achieve more, and maximize results.
We align human dynamics with organizational development. 
  • We are dedicated to building a creative relationship with our clients that includes a personal touch and meets the timeframe established. 
 
We provide solutions for leadership, wellbeing, and DEIA+A  – organizational effectiveness, facilitation, training, leadership development, membership, and coaching.
 
  • We are certified, licensed, and authorized!  We have partnered in over 50 industries world-wide within education, associations, S&P 100 and S&P 500 corporations.
​​
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  • We have served at every level within associations, nonprofits, or education – from member or consumer to faculty, staff, senior administrator to senior staff, executive director, board member, volunteer leader, donor, and sponsor! ​​
 
Our consultancy - www.achievemorellc.com
 
 
​​
We approach our ​wo​rk with the following principles in mind:
  •  Be Better: ​​​​​1. Foster organizational growth and professional success. ​2. Engage in consistent assessment and evaluation to build excitement.

  • Achieve More: 1. Create and make visible a sense of value. 2. Lead with a sense of hope and optimism through partnership and collaboration. 3.  Explore of new approaches to expand the business possibilities that exist.

  •  Maximize Results: 1. Ensure that specific, measurable, and realistic goals are set. 2. We align with the allocated resources.  3. Define an action plan, assign roles, and clarify expectations  to record what works
​​​
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Mariama's Photo - www.achievemorellc.com
Today, as President and CEO of Achieve More, LLC,
a certified small woman and minority-owned consultancy,
Mariama S. Boney, LMSW, CAE, CPEC 
is an award-winning educator and serves as the principal consultant.
  • Mariama is transformative, transparent, team-oriented, and solution-focused with her skills in facilitation, training, and consulting. She is an author of numerous articles and 3 books.
  • Her content knowledge spans over 100 topics in leadership, DEIA+A, and well-being with a worldwide impact on behalf of over 1000 diverse groups of professionals, students, faculty, and volunteers and for partners and participants over 500,000.​​
  • An innovator of over 1,000 quality programs, products, and services to expand learning, and implementor of over 20 strategic plans and 750+ projects for future success. Mariama has helped education, government, technology, engineering, cyber security, non-profit, corporate, and association organizations ​achieve fiduciary and operational efficiency.
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  • Achieve More LLC has worked with a variety of industries and professionals including and not limited to:  accountants | advocacy|  airports |architects| association executives| botanists| business |child life specialists| colleges| construction| counselors| cyber security| dentists| doctors|engineers| faculty| gaming| government| healthcare specialists| information technology| landscape architects| librarians| journalists |life sciences | lawyers | marriage and family therapists|medical illustrators |monitoring professionals | neurosurgeons | music educators| pharmacists | nursing |real estate | researchers | psychologists | special educators |social workers| software development |transportation| universities| and many more! ​
 

Wellness Remedies, Etc.

Our approach

We are a group of caring individuals that understand the struggles that navigating today’s healthcare system can bring. As an extension of mental health services, we assist individuals by providing a more natural route to emotional stability and physical wellness. Let us help you optimize your health and wellness today.

 
 

  • Whole Food Supplements

    For best results, book an initial consultation. Other supplements & body oil remedies do not require consultation.

  • Skin Care Products

    100% All natural skin care products for troubled or sensitive skin (i.e. eczema, acne, psoriasis, dry cracked skin).

  • Mental Wellness

    View our t-shirts, designed to promote mental health awareness and break the stigma of seeking help when needed.

 
 

“Dr. Ross of Wellness Remedies helped me find whole food supplement solutions for my issues with chronic fatigue and stress.”

— A.L, Wellness Remedies Client

 

Get started with your wellness journey, today.

 

Made Royalty

Discover Our Journey

WELCOME to Made Royalty, Entertainment (MRE) . A company founded in 2018 striving on individualism , character, family, and style. We believe in shaping todays future with community base activities as well as displaying our fashion to anyone and everyone. MRE understands we are all royalty, but those who believe they are, are truly Kings and Queens-and we would love for y’all to join us in our journey to display this world. Blessings to All

A.T.L. Perfume Chick

Be Beautifully Scented by A.T. L. Perfume Chick

A.T.L. Perfume Chick is a unique small business proudly owned by an Army Veteran, specializing in exquisite range of scented shea butter. Each product is a blend of nourishing shea butter infused with a variety of enchanting fragrances, catering to diverse preferences.

Running Name , LLC

At Running Name, we want to solve the biggest problem in the online market: Security.

Mission Statement

We aid businesses and non-profits through security and design while creating a benchmark for online safety.

Vision

We strive to be the pioneers of the dynamic IT industry by providing quality service and helping anyone turn their passions into a reliable business venture.

Values

Running Name LLC believes that by establishing trust, practicing transparency, and open communication, we maintain our internal team and increase our client base. We value our team, and to show our appreciation, we invest in their talent/skill development. We also believe in doing our part to protect the environment. For this reason, we use Green Technology. Lastly, we measure our success by our customer and employee satisfaction reviews.

 
 

Balpreet Singh
Visual Designer

Bal is the newest member to join our team. He provides our clients website with visually appealing graphics, colors, and concepts. He brainstorms and collaborates with our clients and team members to bring to life the client’s vision for their website. He is responsible for all the visuals that go into creating a website.

 

Paul Pearson
Owner | Chief Information Officer

Paul helps our clients outline their company’s technological vision, mitigate cybersecurity risks, and ensure that the tech resources align with the company’s business needs. He has worked with and for the Air Force, the private sector, and non-profits.

 

Rachel Bishop 
Web Content Writer | Editor

Rachel blends her creativity and strong analytical research skills to handle all content’s ideation, creation, editing, and organization. She ensures all material is accurate, concise, and correct.

 

Laura Son
Graphic Designer

My name is Laura Son, and I have been a graphic designer and intern for Running Name LLC since February 2023. I have four years of experience in graphic design after working in multiple companies, and I earned certifications for my services. I graduated from George Mason University in Spring 2023 with a bachelor’s degree in visual arts and technology (with a concentration in graphic design). My hobbies are illustration and watching anime.

 

Rachael Cook
Visual Designer

Talented and passionate graphic designer with a keen eye for creativity and innovation. With years of experience in the industry, Rachael has honed her design skills and developed a profound love for art. As an avid mentor, she finds great joy in guiding and inspiring other aspiring designers, helping them unlock their full potential and achieve their creative dreams. Rachael’s dedication to nurturing emerging talents and her unwavering passion for the world of art make her an invaluable asset to the design community.

Cristina Salazar Guerrero
Visual Designer

Graphic designer with 5 years of experience with a B.S. in Computer Science. Outstanding work in design, coding, and project management. Promotes tutoring in STEM related fields within her community and creates a workforce environment that leads to higher performance, success, and creative flare. Her work has granted her awards and academic honors.

 
 

Oriana Lukas
Graphic Designer

Hi, I’m Oriana Lukas. I’m a senior media arts and design major at JMU planning to graduate in May 2024. I’ve been an intern for Running Name LLC since September 2023. My current focus is towards UX design, graphic design and web design. I have five years of experience in graphic design using Adobe Suite, three years of experience in UX design using Figma, and 2 years of web design using CMS and HTML/CSS. I pride myself in being able to create visual art for people and hope to only improve my skills moving forward. 

 

Joe McIntyre
Photographer

A photographer new to the photography industry. Skilled in Lifestyle Photography, Portraiture, Lightroom, Digital Photography, and Adobe Photoshop

TRIPLE NIKEL

Setting Trends | Amplifying Heroes | Inspirational Apparel

Our Story

During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in the summer of 2020, the idea for Triple Nikel was sparked. We created an idea based off four simple concepts: Legacy, Community, Music and Love.

Smokejumpers with the 555th Parachute Infantry Regiment prepare for Airborne training exercise on the west coast of the U.S.A. circa - 1944

The Name

The name Triple Nikel is derived from the 555th Parachute Infantry Regiment that was stood up in 1943 during segregation. Known as the “Triple Nickels”, their mission was to neutralize forest fires through airborne insertions.

Parachutes fall from the sky in front of a cloud as a plane flies behind them.

Our Legacy

Each of our founders started their military careers in the 82nd Airborne Division as paratroopers. It is our common ground to which we often derive experiences, motivation and content.

Triple Nikel co-founder, Curtez Riggs, displays one of the original designs during their debut event Oct 2020.

The Style

Our designs pull inspiration from the Hip Hop culture. Besides the military, a common ground between all the TN founders is Hip Hop. We believe that music is a common thread that binds all people; so that’s why our collections are dedicated to music we love.

The Triple Nikel universe depicted in an awesome collage of dope people!

The Journey

Since Nov 2020, we have traveled coast to coast telling our story and meeting new people along the way. During the first 18 months of operations, we spent less than $500 on marketing; focusing on the true heroes of this story – the people!

MEET OUR FOUNDERS

Left: Ruben “Rubz” Ayala, CEO/Founder of Triple Nikel

Right: Chris “Smurf” McPhee, CMO/Co-Founder Triple Nikel

Ruben Ayala, CEO/Founder
Chris McPhee, CMO/Co-Founder
Man with American flag ballcap and Triple Nikel t-shirt smiles.
Man with American flag ballcap and Triple Nikel t-shirt smiles.

Left: Kuther “Rod” Graham, COO/Co-Founder Triple Nikel

Right: Curtez “Curt” Riggs, Business Dev/Co-Founder Triple NIkel

Lotions, Scrubs, Oils, Etc

Signal 4 grew from my frustration with companies discontinuing  things I like which pushed me to learn to make them myself. Once I starting sharing my lotions and syrups, people wanted them. I have a day job, so I ignored them. Then I was introduced to the “shoe polish” men call beard care and it was their frustration that guided the products because every person deserves to look, feel and smell fantastic. Now, I want to share what I have crafted with all of us in mind. My goal is to produce quality skincare products and delicious syrups and offer them at a great price that fit any budget, check it out and start shopping today.

The oils used in Signature 4 products were chosen for their hair and skin loving properties. 

Mango butter melts and is quickly absorbed, it nourishes hair and skin.

Moringa Oil stimulates hair growth, helps skin retain moisture and prevents inflammation and flaking.

Jamaican Black Castor Oil helps hair to grow fuller and thicker, seal split ends, detangle hair and reduce acne.

Jojoba oil composition is similar to skin’s natural oil, sebum. It’s easily absorbed and moistures hair and skin.

Sweet Almond Oil fights bacteria and helps to clean dirt and oil from pores as it penetrates the skin. Helps to rejuvenate dead skin cells.

 

GemZoanWorld

GemZoanWorld is a wonderful region where gem-infused animals thrive and are ready to be adopted!

House of JITB

JITB is your go-to source for fashion jewelry, custom mugs, t-shirts & accessories. We offer affordable prices so you can look and feel good without breaking the bank. Custom jobs and bulk orders are also available.

JITB Boutique LLC is A Family Affair

JITB stands for Joshua, Isaiah, Takisha Bauermeister. Est. 2018, JITB Boutique was created so people could look good, feel good, without spending a fortune.

Takisha B.

As a mom of two boys, it was important for me to learn early on that fashion didn’t have to be expensive. It was important to me my family felt good about what they wore.

 

Uplift Energy Coaching LLC

WE DARE.
WE DELIVER.

Delivering high-energy, interactive, tailored solutions on self-leadership, interaction management, and resilience building.

 

Dr. Xavier Bruce

Veteran Program Administrator | Consultant | Facilitator | Author | Publisher 

I have always had a deep desire to help maximize the potential of others, regardless of any difficult situations or limiting beliefs they might have.

A lot of the times, these mental blocks come from a less-than-effective approach of dealing with stress from within. I’ve seen these negative patterns manifest themselves as productivity problems, failure to reach goals, chronic physical problems, and financial hardship among many other things.

​

This all sounds personal – because it is.  Here is my story.

​Download Bio

Download One-Sheet

 

Vision

A military-affiliated community with the utmost resilience.

Mission

To build self-leadership, interaction management, and resilience-building skills among veterans and military families.

 

MEET yolanda

Veteran, IT Professional, Champion of Holistic Wellness

Yolanda Tate is an empowered advocate for holistic wellness, driven by a lifelong commitment to empowering individuals to embrace their well-being. Throughout her life, she nurtured her passion through sports and bodybuilding, honing her understanding of the body’s capabilities and potential.

With a military career spanning 29 years, Yolanda Tate knows firsthand the rigors of dedication, discipline, and service. However, her journey wasn’t without its challenges. As she dedicated herself to her career, she encountered burnout, stress, and an alarming concern for external appearances, all while grappling with emotional turmoil beneath the surface.

Yolanda’s transformative realization was that wellness extends far beyond mere physical appearances. It’s about nurturing the heart and mind, recognizing that true physical well-being can only be achieved when emotional and mental health are in harmony. Her commitment to personal growth and the priority of her own wellness paved the way for the work she does today.

As a dedicated Wellness Consultant and Coach, Yolanda empowers both individuals and organizations with invaluable resources, strategies, and tools. Her mission is clear: to instill growth mindsets and sustainable healthy lifestyle habits that elevate performance, boost productivity, and nurture leadership skills.

TANDA Luxury Lifestyle at Lifestyle Holiday Vacation Club

CARIBBEAN LUXURY
Enjoy the ultimate tropical resort, ideally situated within the breathtaking Dominican Republic. Endless days filled with abundant sun, glorious beaches and a first-class, full-service experience. From luxurious accommodations and delightful dining options with plenty of bars to exceptional special offers designed specifically for our clientele, you’ll find everything you are dreaming of in a vacation here with us.


VIP EXCLUSIVES
Lifestyle Holidays Vacation Club at Puerto Plata in the Dominican Republic offers Members from around the world the ultimate tropical destination with miles of beautiful beaches and an endless abundance of sunshine and refreshing ocean breezes. Our enchanting resort complex features a mixture of suites and stand-alone villas that come in a variety of spaces to provide ample room for couples, families, and groups of all sizes.

ACCOMMODATIONS
All of our luxury accommodations are designed as a serene, pampering retreat with breathtaking ocean or mountain views and feature top-of-the-line amenities such as fully-equipped kitchens, stylish contemporary décor, and both private and communal pools. Enjoy a variety of gourmet restaurants, entertainment venues, top-tier services, a host of transportation options, and so much more when you vacation at our exclusive resort.

 

To provide entertainment services through feel-good music, lighting, and vlogging for all your event needs. 
 
 
 

About Us

JRIG ENTERTAINMENT is your premier choice for unparalleled DJ services, seamlessly blending turntable mastery, creative mashups, captivating lighting, and even vlogging to capture the essence of your event. Whether it’s a corporate gathering like a company gala, an office Christmas party, a community block party, or a private celebration such as a wedding, birthday, or family reunion, we bring the perfect rhythm to every occasion. Our expertise ensures a dynamic and memorable atmosphere, making JRIG ENTERTAINMENT the soundtrack to your most special moments.



Bio

Hailing from Northern Virginia, DJ JRIG, also known as John Riggins, brings a unique blend of skills cultivated through his extensive military and government background. With a solid foundation in IT, managerial, and administrative expertise, DJ JRIG not only commands the turntables but also exemplifies patience and exceptional customer service as a devoted family man. His commitment to the community is reflected in fair pricing and genuine care for every event he takes on. Experience his musical prowess every Friday at Veteran’s Growing America’s Open Mic night, or request a phone consult to witness why DJ JRIG stands out as the most personable and professional DJ in the area.

 
 

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