RYSE Magazine (July/ August) by RYSE

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July/August 2011 $3.95 US

Stubborn in Stilettos

MAKING your CASH GROW

LUCAS BOYCE Shares His Journey From Foster Care, to the White House to Orlando Magic Executive

i s s u e

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www.RYSEMagazine.com

Are You Successful and Lonely?

Things young men should know

Who we are

YBE

Y O U N G B USI N ESS E X E C U T I V ES

The readers of RYSE Magazine are Young Business Executives (YBE). YBE’s are well-educated, ambitious go-getters, who strive to be the best in both their personal and professional life. They excel at climbing the ladder in the corporate world, or at navigating unchartered paths as innovative and creative entrepreneurs. YBE’s are confident, cultured and know where they are going. They are community activists who promote building wealth through social change. They are not afraid to express their opinions, but always open to new ideas. Always keeping up with the current trends, YBE’s earn a moderate to high disposable income and can be extravagant when it comes to enjoying the finer things in life. A sufficient amount of YBE’s income is spent on maintaining their homes with trendy furnishings, accessories, clothing, activities and events with those closest to them. YBE’s like to retain a sense of individuality within their groups, while understanding that true power lies in unity and collectivism. They live by mottos such as Quality rather than quantity and Each one, must reach one. Well-travelled, YBE’s are likely to try exotic destinations, while not forgetting their normal native destinations. They work smart, but play hard, making the transition appear seamless and effortless. Young Black Executive’s stand at the crossroads of change as a generation of ambitious, conscientious leaders and powerful voices within the communities they live.

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Contents JULY/AUGUST 2011

FEATURES Building Bridges Across The World

Special Assistant to Mayor Teresa Jacobs, Zoraida Velasco is not only focused on economic development within the local community, but in building strong international relationships around the world. By Ashley Cisneros

Saved By Grace

Born prematurely to a drug and alcohol addicted prostitute, Orlando Magic Executive Lucas Boyce could have easily become a statistic, but wisdom from his adoptive mom, hard work, determination, and opportunity, mixed with grace allowed him to make the most out of the cards he was dealt. By Ashley Cisneros

Lucas Boyce photographed by Nancy Jo Brown/106foto

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C O N TR IB U T O R S Tatianna Aker seeks to encourage, strengthen, and provoke others to good works through writing. She has a bachelor’s in English and is the leader of an online writing critique group organized through Proverbs31 Ministries.

Milio Aleda Millo conducts seminars on motivation, sales and leadership. He understands how to fascinate an audience through visual communication, speech, body language and product development.

Darren J. Hutchinson, sports writer for RYSE Magazine.

Dr. LaKeidra S. Capers is a clinical pharmacist and is passionate about fulfilling destinies through health, wellness, and wealth; as she truly believes the first wealth is health! Dr. LaKeidra is on a laser focused mission to empower lives through awareness of healthy living habits and safe medication practices. Contact Dr. Capers at: askdrlakeidra@gmail.com

Samuel Lee is known to most as Mr. Date Coach. He’s helped many men and women deal with the realities of their dating life. His tips have helped clients find success in their dating lives.

Regina Cotton is an Empowerment Strategist who specializes in leadership training for small businesses, youth mentoring programs, and provides training for youth, juveniles, and ex-offenders looking to get back into the job market. Her educational background includes a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and a Master of Science in Leadership, both from Nova Southeastern University of Orlando, FL.

Denise Y. Mose, Ph.D is the owner/creator of Simply D Perfume and Beauty Skin Care Line. She is also the host of Urban America Today (www.myjbnonline.net). She is an authority on education, business, beauty/fashion, career coaching and etiquette. Her new book, The Guilt-Free Guide To Fashion, will be released summer 2011! You may visit her online at www.dymbeauty.com and www.danielformen.net.

Dwayne Gayle is a Financial Advisor/ Planner with First Command Financial Services, Inc. He has over 10 years of experience in Finance and Financial Management.

Dio Pouerie is the President of Aquiline Group, a company whose mission is to provide the premier public relations solutions for private & public companies. He is also the Founder and CEO of Aquilinity Corp, an international training and development company. For more info, please visit: www.aquilinegroup.com and www.aquilinity.com

Misha N. Granado, MPH, MS is the Executive Director of Love Grows, a boutique consulting group offering interactive workshops, mentorship, motivational speaking, books and relationship tips and tools to empower, strengthen and honor all relationship dynamics. To learn more please visit www.thelovewithinexperience.com.

Susan Reddick is the owner of E & R One Stop, a document preparation company based out of Orlando Florida.

Deidre Graybill is the co-owner of Loose Ends Salon, Inc. locate in Dr. Phillips and has over 25 years of experience in the field of cosmetology. To learn more, please visit: www.Naturallylooseends.com

Reganel J. Reeves, Esq. is a managing partner with the Justice League Law Group. His primary focus and expertise is on handling personally injury cases of all types and has successfully recovered compensation for many clients.

Jamila Hartsfield is a license Hairstylist and Makeup artist located in the Tampa, FL. She has years of experience in the beauty industry and has worked with a significant number of models and actresses throughout the years.

Devin Heflin is a feature writer and editor for the Orlando Times Newspaper. He is also the owner of Devin’s Ink Creative Services, a freelancing company that specializes in web articles, copywriting, blogging and marketing. For more information, contact him devin.heflin@gmail.com

For a full bio on each contributing writer, please visit RYSEMagazine.com 4 RY SE MAGAZINE | J U LY/ A U G U S T 2011

O. Ross, known as The Small Biz EngineTM is a successful businesswoman, entrepreneur, radio host, and professional speaker. As the Visionary Founder and Director of O. Ross Enterprises, she built her consultancy on the premise of unique branding concepts and profit-driven business strategies. Signature services include Conceptual Consulting, Strategic Business Development, Business & Marketing Plans, and Professional Writing requests. For more information visit www.thesmallbizengine.com Tricia Y. Travis, Ed. D. holds a doctor’s degree of Education. She graduated from the University of Central Florida and Nova Southeastern University with multiple degrees, majoring I in elementary education, educational leadership and organizational leadership with a specialization in human resource development. She is the Chief Executive Officer of Celebrity Educator Inc. which is a human resource development organization that collaborates with local business to support teachers and school administrators.

DEPARTMENTS JULY/AUGUST 2011

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62 7 A Word from the Publisher 9 Ms. Know it All Style 10 Make Up From Day to Night Quick tips on how to transitions from business to pleasure and still look beautiful 12 Should Women Wear Men’s Attire? 14 Care For Your Dress Shirts Tips for maintaining that crisp clean look 16 Selling Class With A Passion Q&A with Poshion Bowtie owner Rob Jones 18 Naturally Loose Ends Arts and Entertainment 20 Playlist Music that’s topping the charts 21 Artist Spotlight local talent takes center stage Book Club 22 Ink That Will Make You Think wine & dine 24 Spicing it Up with Spicecrafter’s founder Michael Anderson

40 70

Sports & Recreation 26 Golf 101 Back to basics 28 Changing the Game After 19 seasons, Shaquille O’Neal calls it quits on his own terms Mind, body and soul 30 Prevention is the Key 5 quick tips for living A healthier life today 32 The Doc Is In RYSE Magazine’s interview with Dr. Ron Fulmore II, of Fulmore Chiropractic Care LIFESTYLE 34 Things Young Men Should Know EMPOWERMENT 36 Finding Weakness to be an Opportunity 38 Uncommon Success in an Uncommon Economy LOVE & HAPPINESS 40 Are You Successful and Lonely? Many women today find themselves successful but so single 42 Relationships Do NOT Fail The next one is sweeter then the last 44 Always & Forever Celebrating recent unions

46 Amen Corner Sowing In Purpose Tech SavVy 48 Social Media Marketing Success MONEY TALKS 62 Making Your Cash Grow LAW AND ORDER 64 Ask an Attorney The 411 behind lawyer referral services POLITICAL POWER 66 The Increase in Imperialism and the Demise of the Individual BUSINESS SENSE 68 The Entrepreneurial Mind, Gift or Curse? 70 Stubborn in Stilettos IT TAKES A VILLAGE 72 5 Strategies for Preparing Children for Success 74 Central Florida Youth that are making a difference in our community

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Recognizing Young Successful Executives & Entrepreneurs www.rysemagazine.com July/August 2011

Publisher/Editor in Chief J. Jackson Sr. Managing Editor Ashley Cisneros Associate Editors Devin Heflin Tatianna Aker Creative and Art Director StudioJones Graphic Design

Visit the online digital edition of RYSE Magazine. In addition to online only extras, you can add bookmarks and notes to features, send stories to friends and even click on links that interest you while reading. The online edition works on iPhones and iPads, so take it with you on the go.

Contributing Photographers Nancy Jo Brown 106FOTO Contributing Writers Ashley Cisneros Alicia Mitchell Dr. Denise Y. Mose Yolanda Baruch Director of Marketing / Sales Darien Hill Director of Special Promotions Natalie Hawthorne

Connect

RYSE Magazine â&#x201E;˘ is published bi-monthly by The Words of Action Publishing, Inc.

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A Word from the Publisher

Welcome to the Premier Issue of RYSE Magazine

As a native Floridian, I have often

heard it said that Central Florida has no culture or identity. As young professionals have migrated to this great city, they have often expressed difficulty in finding a place to belong. Desperately in search of a new network and community resources, they often expressed a feeling of isolation and separation, not sure where to find a sense of connection. RYSE Magazine’s role is to fill that gap. The readers of RYSE are Young Business Executives. RYSE is not a membership organization looking to compete with professional, social, and civic organizations that currently provide the necessary personal and professional development and sense of belonging to the members it serves. It is simply a resource for young professionals to gain a greater awareness of these organizations, activities and infrastructure that already exist. It is a platform to showcase the numerous outliers that are excelling in our community whose talents and contributions are often overlooked. It is a tool to unify our diverse group throughout the Florida, who although may have different interest, ultimately share similar goals for success. True power lies not in individualism, but in collectivism. The strength is not in the wolf, but in the pack. So comes the call to action! RYSE has provided the platform, now we are looking for you to spread the word. Now it’s up to you to fill your role in bringing us together as one. Each one, must reach one. • Professionals, we want to hear about the moves you are making.

• Social, Civic, and Professional organizations, we need you in our directories so that others can learn how to get connected with you. • Mentoring organizations, register on our site to let others know how they can give of their time, talent and treasure to guide the next generation of leaders to success. The challenge has been issued, now it’s time for us all to RYSE to the occasion. Until next time, Work Smart, Play Hard, and Maintain Yourself.

“Action” J. Jackson Sr. “Action” J. Jackson Sr. Publisher/Editor in Chief RYSE Magazine J ULY / AUG UST 2 0 1 1 | WWW. RY SE M AG AZ I N E.C OM 7

RYSE (Rise): [rahyz] â&#x20AC;&#x201C; noun; to elevate or increase in rank, status, position, reputation, fortune, influence, or power. Go to RYSEMagazine.com to subscribe today!

Recognizing Young Successful Executives & Entrepreneurs www.rysemagazine.com

FOR OUR READERS TO SUBSCRIBE Subscriptions to RYSE Magazine are free and only require you to pay for postage to your home or office. RYSE Magazine is printed bi-monthly by Words of Action, Inc. To subscribe, visit RYSEMagazine.com LETTERS TO THE EDITOR RYSE Magazine wants to hear from you. Letters to the editor should be addressed to: RYSE Magazine 2100 Lee Rd. Suite D Winter Park, FL. 32789 Attn: J. Jackson Sr. Your letters to the editor can also be sent online by visiting RYSEMagazine.com To be considered for publication, letters must include the name, address, and phone number of the sender. Because of limited space, letters should not be unduly long. Letters may be edited to meet space, clarity and/or style requirements. TO ADVERTISE If you would like information about how to advertise your business, products or services in RYSE Magazine, please call our office at (407) 494-1069, or email us at advertise@rysemag.com

FOR MORE INFORMATION For more information on additional services, please visit us online at RYSEMagazine.com 8 RY SE MAGAZINE | J U LY/ A U G U S T 2011

Ms.

Know it All

Dear Ms. Know it All, I have been in a relationship with my boyfriend for about 15 months. Everything is great and I have met with his family. We basically live together, but there is a problem—the relationship is not going anywhere. How do I get the relationship to the next level? Signed, Stuck in a Rut Dear Stuck in a Rut: I believe that you are stuck in a rut because there is one element missing out of your relationship-commitment. A lot of men say that they are afraid of commitment, but that is just an excuse not to tell you that they want to keep their options open. You see, most men have it right by dating you and making you feel compelled to only date them in hopes that one day they will marry you. The

only thing wrong with that is they will never quite commit to marriage. Here is a good way to handle that—tell them what you are looking for and put your time frame on it. Now be sure to tell him that you by no way are giving him an ultimatum. My momma used to have a saying, “You don’t have to eat the whole cow to know that it’s beef.” By the same token, I don’t have to cook, clean, and sleep

with you for 10 years for you to decide if I am good enough to be your wife. You see, both people can keep their options open. If he can’t commit, then maybe you should weigh your options. Let him know that you will still date him, just not exclusively. Options can be a mother; make sure you exercise all of yours. Signed, Ms. Know it All

Have a question for Ms. Know it All? Send them to questions@rysemag.com. Your question maybe selected for our next issue of RYSE Magazine. J ULY / AUG UST 2 0 1 1 | WWW. RY SE M AG AZ I N E.C OM 9

IN S TYL E

Make Up From Day to Night

Quick Tips On How To Transitions From Business To Pleasure and Still Look Beautiful BY Jamila Hartsfield

can be very busy. Some days we find ourselves running from day to night. So what do you do on the days that you want to go from work to happy hour? At the end of an 8-to-12-hour day your skin may look oily and your eyes tired, and you surely do not want to go to happy hour looking greasy and washed up. Here’s a five-minute solution to that problem. You should have the following things in your makeup bag to achieve a perfectly polished, after-work party look: concealer, crayon eyeliner, mascara, bronzer, bronzer brush and your favorite shade of lipstick or gloss. Let us start by tackling the grease! Simply take a paper towel and blot away the oil on your skin. Do not whip. Many of us are very rough on our skin and you do not want make you skin red and blotchy from the paper towel. If paper towel is too rough, use a little bit of towel tissue, or the toilet liners (those are actually the best). Once you are done blotting off the oil, you are ready to make your transition. Depending on your line of work, you may have tired eyes which result in bags. The first step in achieving your

“day to night” look is to take your concealer and cover those bags under your eyes. The best way to cover those are with concealer. Some of you may prefer to use a brush to paint your concealer on, but if you are like me you are a finger painter. Just take that concealer and dap it over those bags. You can also use the concealer to cover any dark spots you may have on your skin. Once you have applied your concealer and evened it out, your next move is going to be eye liner and mascara. Depending on your complexion, you want to use dark brown or black crayon liner. Take your eyeliner and make the line on your upper lid a little thicker than you would normally wear it during the day. Then line the lower lid. If you are feeling bold and would like a smoky eye, you can smudge the liner over the whole upper lid to give you a dramatic look. Once your lid is done,

apply your mascara. Apply two coats on the top lid or for a more dramatic look, do three coats depending on your mascara. Be careful to avoid clumping. Once your eyes are done, it’s time to apply your bronzer. You will need your bronzer brush to apply it all over your face. This will give your skin a sunkissed and even appearance. Do not over bronze because it could cause a “Tin Man” effect. Just take your bronzer brush and softly run it over your cheeks and over your T-zone, making sure you bronze the areas that you applied the concealer. Lastly, apply your lipstick and or lip gloss. Red and pink lipsticks are really in right now for those of you who are bold. If you are a woman who likes to line your lips, make your lip liner a shade darker than your lipstick. If you are not a lipstick type of girl, then apply your lip gloss and you are ready for the night.

ISTOCKPHOTO.COM

The life of a professional woman

Should Women Wear Men’s Attire?

BY Dr. Denise Y. Mose

Fashion

has

always

been

influence and will remain that way. Each year, fashion designers introduce a craze in the world of style and flair, and these trends are why consumers love them. They create a unique look based on their ingenuity in the fastpaced beauty business. But, should women have to dress like men to be taken seriously? In some arenas, the notion of anything goes doesn’t work. In the fashion industry, it shouldn’t. But, like you, the average consumer wants to stand out when they enter a room. However, wearing a suit, vest, tie and fedora will grant a female looks, but not the ones she intended to receive. Certain

industries require a standard of dress. At McDonalds, there’s a uniform for employees. The same goes for Burger King and Taco Bell. In contrast, uniforms don’t apply in corporate America. Research proves that while polyester is cheaper, it doesn’t make it better. The truth is that when it comes to a wardrobe change, more money is spent on nicer threads. There are some things you can’t skimp on, and chic clothes is one of them. Now there’s nothing morally wrong with a polyester suit, but research shows that it won’t help in business. A good pencil skirt states that you’re an upper middle class executive, while a polyester pantsuit says otherwise.

Even in 2011,this style is still prevalent. Also, an executive that wears a fitted skirt makes it easier to carry out orders to your staff. Naysayer of many articles say that, “Clothing does’nt make the woman.” They assume that those who believe that clothing is important also believe that it’s all that counts. A woman needs drive, ambition, intelligence and education to move up the executive ladder. Without those qualities the best clothing in the world won’t save you. But if she doesn’t have the right clothing, she still won’t get ahead. To piggyback the last point, further analysis indicates that a three-piece pinstriped suit not only creates questions about a woman’s authority, it destroys it. This look makes her appear “imitation like,” and always fails. In fact, the only woman who pulled off the look was Grammy-Award Winning Artist Anne Lennox of the rock group Eurhythmics. She was viewed as a revolutionary in the industry for this look. In the same token, there are some patterns men shouldn’t wear that were meant for women. Most men don’t wear ruffles. However, there is this ingenious Oscar, Grammy, Emmy winning and Hall of Fame inducted artist with an affinity for all things purple. He is known for feminine attire, including high heeled boots. But again, he’s the only one that can pull this off and make everyone else want to attempt it. Men who walk in his fashion footsteps are generally seen as copy-cats. To top it off, he was named the Fashion Icon of the United States by Vogue Magazine. His name doesn’t need to be mentioned. In short, invest in what makes you look good. If you don’t know, find someone who does. The neat lady with sharp style would love to go shopping with you. Talk to her and find some tips. If that doesn’t help, just walk the floors at Macy’s and see how it feels. You will no doubt be inspired.

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IN S TYL E

Care For Your Dress Shirts Tips For Maintaining That Crisp Clean Look room wearing a cool outfit, you want to be noticed for your style, not just your smile. Wrinkle-less slacks that flow with ease are very impressive. So are high-quality Italian leather shoes. But if you really want to keep your appearance stellar, make sure you’re wearing a well cared for dress shirt. Men’s dress shirts are designed to be stylish and formal while showcasing the physique. The wrong dress shirt can create an undesirable appearance that is either too baggy-looking, or too tight-fitting. Off-the-rack shirts often belong in one of these groups. However, if you’re fortunate enough to have custom-made dress shirts, the design and style of your shirts can take on a more tailored look. Whether it’s off-the-rack

from Macy’s, or a custommade button down, there are a number of things you can do to keep your shirts in good condition. Over time, this will save you money and keep your dress shirts looking like new. • Wash ‘n wear. Before wearing your new dress shirt the first time, wash it in cold/ warm water. This removes manufacturing chemicals and dye residue, which may irritate the skin. • Be gentle. Wash dark-colored shirts in cold water and light-colored shirts in warm water. This will help retain the fabric’s color. Also, use your washers’ gentle cycle to help preserve the fabric quality of your shirts. If you have lot of time on your hands, wash your shirts by hand. They will last a lot longer.

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• 1, 2, 3 ... The higher the thread count, the better the quality. If you’re buying off-therack, look for Twill or Pinpoint style shirts. For custom-made shirts, Poplin and Broadcloth styles fit the bill since they are woven with a finer yarn and have a softer texture. If you’re not sure about the threadcount or shirt pattern, be sure to ask a salesperson for help. • Don’t clean. Don’t dry-clean, that is. Dry-cleaning fluids can destroy the fine fabric of a dress shirt. If you must use a dry-cleaner, have them wash your shirts instead. Better yet, try washing them on a gentle cycle or by hand. • Spray away. If you use spray deodorants or spray colognes, be sure to spray them on your body (neck and torso) and allow them to dry before dressing. The mixture of anti-perspirants, deodorants, or

colognes with natural body oils, can cause staining and may weaken the shirt over time. • Steamy subjects.

Do not use a hot iron on a stained shirt. The heat will cause the stain to become permanent. Also, be sure to use the steam option when ironing. Or, you can dampen your shirts with a mist of water before using an iron. • Hanging around.

To retain your shirts’ manly shape, use wooden hangers with broad shoulder extensions. Mahogany, oak, and walnut hangers are the best. Avoid using wire hangers since their thin structure can alter a shirts’ appearance over time. Whether you’re sporting a button-down collar, pointcollar, or spread-tab-band dress shirt, these tips will help maintain the quality of your apparel.

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When you walk into a

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IN S TYL E

Smooth, Refined and Debonair are all adjectives that describe the feeling you get when you wear a custom designed Posh Bowtie tied with just the perfect POSH knot. By Dr. Denise Y. Mose RYSE Magazine recently sat down with Rob Jones, as he shared his vision behind Poshion Bowties and his desire to reinvigorate the bowtie movement.

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NANCY JO brown/106FOTO

Selling Class With A Passion

Standing 6’2, Rob Jones is more than just a handsome face. Not only is he the founder and creative force of Poshion Bowties, but he is a man who allowed his passion and style to unveil and manifest an unspoken dream. I recently spoke with the visionary behind the brand regarding his beginnings and journey to Poshion Bowties. Dr. Mose: Ok, explain to me where you came up with the name Poshion Bowties. Rob Jones: Dressing professional makes a statement,

Varina and I was on my way. I graduated tenth in my class with a GPA of 4.2 out of a class of over 400 seniors.

but when you really want to kick it up a notch in men’s wardrobes you have to go with the bowtie. Clothes are empowering and say a lot about the individual. Besides that, I actually sew my own bowties. That makes me unique; therefore, I truly understand fabrics and textures. I knew I wanted my accessory line to be upscale, regal, and chic. When we launched formally a year ago, I knew I was on to something huge. All of this comes from my passion in this industry. So, when I decided to choose my business name, I took a play on the word passion. What better…than posh? Moreover, I have an affinity for bowties so I made a marriage out of the two words. Here we are: Poshion Bowties.

Dr. Mose: Your story is amazing. Did you have anyone who helped you get on this path? Rob: There are two men who truly blessed me. Profes-

Dr. Mose: I just love the name, yet I’m curious. Were you always this aggressive when it came to your goals? Rob Jones: I’ll be honest with you Doc. I come from

humble beginnings. I am from Charles City, Virginia and not much is there. No one really told me I was smart or talented in my family. Actually, I was sort of the black sheep in the family. There were three of us and I’m the middle child. My mom really kept me grounded by always taking me to church, teaching me how to cook, and allowing me to have a part-time job when I was young; however, I knew I was built for more in life. When I was young, I painted, drew, and always designed all types of things. Little did I know I was foreshadowing what I would be doing one day. Dr. Mose: Really? So, you’ve been doing this all your life and didn’t even realize it? Rob: No, I didn’t. I was so serious about doing more with

my life that I had my dad assist me in transferring my sophomore year of high school to Varina High School which was 40 miles away. This school had everything and I was not being challenged at my current school. When my dad realized my intensity and eagerness, he bought me a pickup truck. Then we used my cousin’s address near

sor Laurencin Dunbar was my instructor at Livingstone College; this man changed my life as a young college kid. Would you believe he bought me my first suit for a job interview? Not only that, but he saw my drive to be the best. He taught physics and several people were there the first day of class. Shortly after the initial few classes, there were only two students left: another young lady and me. I was a math major and he made sure we understood the material. He also helped me receive the Bill Gates Scholarship to get my second bachelor’s degree from North Carolina AT&T University. Because of him, I went to college with full scholarships. We were that close. After I graduated, I moved to Orlando and met John Pastrana. He became my big brother on my new job. He was very versatile in various things and I wanted to match that tenacity. He’s still one of my best friends. Doc, I am a witness, if you work hard and listen to the right people, you can do anything! Dr. Mose: Wow! Tell our RYSE readers about your upcoming events. Rob: Well, my wife Kesha and I are raising our two boys:

Robert “RJ” Jones, III and Xavier Jones. They are both very young and we are blessed to have them. Actually, I am working on a project for my older son, RJ. He’s only seven, but he’s ready! Also, August 2011 we will present the RJ Collection. It is my goal to be in 10 major stores within the next two years. Because I’m dedicated, I devote 10pm-2am as my business time. I sacrifice sleep at times to get my dream out there. If you believe in yourself, you have to prove it. To find out more about Rob Jones, you can visit his website at www.poshion.com. Rob can be contacted at info@poshion.com. He is a fashion force to be reckoned with. Be professional, always persevere, and above all… keep it posh!

IN S TYL E

Naturally Loose Ends

BY Diedre Graybill

It’s amazing that something as

natural as hair can be so controversial in the workplace. Hair is an attraction to the eye. It adorns our bodies and allows us to express ourselves through the freedom of self-expression. How important it is for ethnic women to embrace our natural texture? I am so excited that the RYSE Magazine has afforded the Central Florida area a professional perspective on taking opportunities to share and learn from each other on topics pertaining to hair and beauty. Let’s begin a discussion about why our natural hair is such a conversational piece. Hair can be the most divisive discussion in the workplace because Black women have not taken ownership of the natural beauty we pose inside so we spend days, hours, and money searching for the person we are not and avoiding who we really are. We grew up in the aftermath of Madam CJ Walker, who was such a phenomenal entrepreneur and the first female self-made millionaire. Her passion for educating women of color about skin and hair care created her wealth and awareness in our history. Once we have a better understanding of our hair and its many textures, we are more equipped mentally to take a natural hair journey. With the negative comments or strange looks, our journey can be easily derailed. Words can make or break a person and their self-worth. Choose your words accordingly. If kinky makes you feel like your

hair should feel like barbed wire then try another word. If nappy makes you feel like small balls are aligning your edges, choose a word more appealing to you and your mindset. Just know that our ethnicity has blessed us with beautiful, textured hair that is extremely versatile. Among other styles, we have the option of wearing our hair in a natural state or straight. Our hair is just a short portion of the journey—the distance is accepting ourselves for who we really are disregarding the concern of what others may think. You have to have a posture of positivity, assertiveness, and confidence in your beauty. The professional cannot give you that, but having dialogue with other sisters who have trav-

Join us at www.naturallylooseends.com and expand your journey. Deidre Graybill Loose Ends…where inspiration and creativity become beauty. 18 RYSE MAGAZINE | J U LY/ A U G U S T 2011

eled the path or are currently on the journey with you can provide insight and mental support to finish the journey. Although the journey starts with the hair, it often ends with a self-renewing spirit and love for the person that they have come to accept. Now that we have exposed the true essence of what it takes to embrace our natural, let’s get back to loving who we are for the right reason. I am so empowered by the inspiration I gain from women that have made the decision to reclaim the natural beauty they have abandoned for so long. Join Naturally Loose Ends on our blog and join the women who have made the journey and are journeying with you.

A R TS & E N T E R TA I N M E N T

Playlist Top Pop/ rock

Top Jazz Songs

1 Give Me Everything

1 Botswana Bossa Nova

Pitbull Featuring Ne-Yo, Afrojack & Nayer 2 Rolling In The Deep

Adele 3 The Edge Of Glory

Lady Gaga 4 Party Rock Anthem

LMFAO Featuring Lauren Bennett & GoonRock 5 Last Friday Night

(T.G.I.F.) Katy Perry

Top Gospel Songs I Smile Kirk Franklin

Over & Over Trin-i-tee 5:7 Featuring PJ Morton Nobody Greater VaShawn Mitchell

My Heart Says Yes Troy Sneed

Well Done Deitrick Haddon

David Benoit 2 Anything’s Possible

Dave Koz

3 Push To Start Paul Taylor 4 S7ven Large

Euge Groove 5 Sumatra

Jeff Lorber

Top R&B/Hip Hop Songs

1 I’m On One

DJ Khaled Featuring Drake, Rick Ross & Lil Wayne 2 Motivation

Kelly Rowland Featuring Lil Wayne 3 Sure Thing

Miguel 4 My Last

Big Sean Featuring Chris Brown 5 How To Love

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Lil Wayne

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Artist

Spotlight The time to support our local talent is not after they have made it to the top of the ladder of success. It is while they are working hard to pull their selves up the rungs when they need our support the most.

Live Hart Singer/Songwriter Live Hart has built a strong following by connecting with her fans through live performances and heart-felt lyrics. She has opened for R&B Superstars such as, Monica, Jagged Edge, Miki Howard, Cherrelle, & Jazz Saxophonist Erly Thornton. She has appeared on The Daily Buzz Morning Show, has performed at the 2010 & 2011 Florida Music Festival and has been nominated for Meer Music’s Effigy Award. Last Fall, Live released ‘Please Don’t Say It’s Over’; the first single off her upcoming album release which describes her journey back to love from a remorseful past. A talented song writer as well, Live has written songs for numerous artists. Her most recent

rendering, ‘The Rain’, was recorded by newcomer Rachel Black. She has also been creatively linked to super soul/ funk singer Honey Larochelle (Brand New Heavies, Macy Gray) and Shaun Fisher (Mandy Moore, Gloria Estefan) on several writing and recording projects. Through her live performances, heart-felt lyrics and her love for man-kind, Live continues to connect with fans through her music; creating a deep and soulful connection every time they meet. For more information and/or a complete tour schedule please visit www.livehartonline.com. For booking inquiries email booking@livehartonline.com. For general inquires email lhmgmt@livehartonline.com.

Shawn Welcome Shawn Welcome, nationally recognized Performance Poet/Spoken Word Artist, is blessed with a gift to encourage, inspire, educate, and motivate. He has over 10 years of public performing experience, which includes drama and acting. Shawn has ministered to various churches across the Central Florida area and was has recently had the honor of working with Wycliffe Bible Translators, Promise Keepers, and the Christian Leadership Alliance. He has also spoken in the corporate arena for companies, such as Nike, Johnson & Johnson, Hewitt Associates, and others. Shawn currently hosts “Di-verse Word,” a weekly open mic night held near downtown Orlando, Florida. His goal is to use his gift with words as a light in a dark decadent world, thirsty for hope and hungry for change. For more information on Shawn Welcome, please visit www.ShawnWelcome.com

Are you a Singer, Songwriter, Poet, or Speaker who would like to be featured in our Artist Spotlight? Contact RYSE Magazine at Spotlight@rysemag.com J ULY / AUG UST 2 0 1 1 | WWW. RY SEM AG AZ I N E .C OM 2 1

BOOK CLUB

Ink That Will Make You Think

Be You! Marcus R. Sedberry

Get Over Your B.S. Shanon Nelson

Living Proof Lucas Daniel Boyce

BE YOU! is a book written to inspire and equip readers to pursue their purpose and passion in life. Everyone has the potential for greatness. It was deposited in us before we were born. Unfortunately, few people are encouraged to tap into their greatness and few people are encouraged to pursue their personal definition of success. BE YOU! is a motivational book that teaches readers ways to focus their lives in order to maximize their potential.

Insecurity, worry, doubt, confusion, depression, inadequacy, anger, fear and feelings of failure…all of these plagued Shanon Nelson the day her ex-husband abandoned her and four children. Get Over Your B.S. (Belief System) is the dynamic story of the nation’s leading Mompreneur’s faith in God and how it empowered her to go from being an abandoned single mom to a college Professor. The maxims in this book changed Shanon’s life and they’ll do the same for your life.

In BE YOU!, Sedberry encourages us to set and achieve expectations of excellence. BE YOU! is simple, powerful, easily relatable, direct, and REAL!

Price: $19.95 Pages: 200 www.ShanonNelson.com

The powerful story of a former foster care child, born premature to an alcohol- and drugaddicted teenager who traded sex for drugs, and how he overcame daunting life challenges in pursuit of his dreams. Developmentally delayed as a result of his birth mother’s abuse, Lucas Daniel Boyce struggled out of the gate and ended up failing kindergarten. His adoptive mother didn’t cast him aside as another tragic statistic however. Instead, Dorothy Boyce instilled in Lucas two very important principles that drove his determination to overcome the cards he’d been dealt and enabled him to eventually serve at the White House, fly aboard Air Force One, and become an executive for the NBA’s Orlando Magic at the young age of 29.

Price: $15 Pages: 100 www.BeYouMovement.com

Price: $16.99 Pages: 228 www.LucasDanielBoyce.com

Are you an author who would like your book featured in our Book Club? Visit RYSEMagazine.com to submit the required information. Due to space limitations, not all submissions will be selected. 22 RYSE MAGAZINE | J U LY/ A U G U S T 2011

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WIN E & D I N E

Spicing

Meeting Michael Anderson for

the first time, I realized that the man that founded the company SpiceCrafters is what one would consider a renaissance man. He is as unpredictable as the spice blends he creates. With a youthful appearance, he stands at little more than six feet with a sturdy stature like an athlete, donning black-rimmed glasses, a subtle nod to his creative intellect, and dressed in one of his company’s promotional t-shirts and jeans. We quickly engage in conversation about his favorite business blogs and magazines that he reads and the key elements that he draws from when studying the footprints of well-known billionaires and successful business owners. One aspect that he found was the key to the success of leading business owners was their ability to take one idea and develop it into a thriving business.

SpiceCrafter’s founder Michael Anderson is on a mission to create bolder, exotic flavors of spices that will bring new excitement to your palate. BY Yolanda Baruch

An astute student of business, Anderson is on his way to becoming a contender in his food industry niche. His blend Primo 27 was selected on Foodsie.com, a virtual farmers market that is nationwide, where he sent samples of his spice blend and after an extremely meticulous process; his website was highlighted on their site. Also, he was recently a finalist in a contest held in Atlanta, Georgia hosted by Black Enterprise Magazine called “Elevator Pitch 2011” which consisted of people from all over the country pitching their business plans within a two minute span to notable judges like the CEO of Black Enterprise Earl G. Graves Jr., talk show host Star Jones, and comedian J. Anthony Brown. Ever the consummate professional, Anderson made sure that all judges were given gift bags with samples of his spice blend, as well as, the other contestants.

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Success has always been an ingredient in Michael’s life. Raised in Plant City, Florida fifteen minutes east of Tampa, Anderson was in pursuit to start his life quickly after graduating college. He chose a career in Computer Information Systems, which turned out to be a lucrative occupation, however, after six years his passion for the job had dissipated. Armed with the experience of trying other business ventures that failed, Anderson decided that the next business he would involve himself in would have to be one that he was passionate about because he believed, “Making money doing something you are not passionate about is just another job, you’re just trading time for money”. He made a list of his hobbies and realized that he enjoyed cooking, eating, and watching the Food Network, especially when Bobby Flay hosted his show.

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SpiceCrafter’s PRIMO 27 is carefully crafted and designed to be global in flavor, featuring spices native to American, Latin American, Caribbean, Asian, European, African, and Mediterranean cuisine. Not one to consider himself a chef, Anderson realized that he loved food and relished the flavors of culinary delights. Once, watching Bobby Flay use a 16 spice rub on ribs sparked an idea within Anderson and he wondered if he too could create his own spice rub. Invigorated with this prospective challenge, he set out to do research, read several books and dissected what it would take to make his own spice from scratch. As he became intrigued by the creative aspect of creating his own spice blend, he decided that he wanted to go beyond the typical spice blends that were offered on the market. He decided to take flavors that were known in different regions of the world and combined them together to form new flavors. The concept behind the company is “Not relying on what our ancestors gave us.” In his search to create an exotic blend, Anderson developed an interest for spices from India, the Middle East and Africa, which he refers to as the “hotbed for spices.” Through these cultures, he explains, people can experience big flavors like crazy curries, tagines, and black masala. In order to develop his spice line, he decided to wipe the slate clean and not develop a spice for a particular region. Instead he decided to use a palate of spices from all over the world and form a new flavor that wasn’t biased to

Southwestern food, Asian food, or North American food, it was a global and exotic flavor and not a particular region. His motto behind his endeavor was, “If you had to give the world a flavor what would it taste like?” The spice industry is a 2.4 billion dollar market where 70 percent of the industry revenue is controlled by the top 15 companies like McCormick, Heinz, and Kraft, to name a few. However, Anderson feels that these companies have struck a creative wall wherein they continue to produce the same spices and flavors like lemon pepper, season salts, curries, which are separated regionally. He believes that if these companies would pay more attention to the food tuck culture that has become the latest food craze where patrons can indulge in “fusion food” which they take flavors from Asia and places them on a taco or have a burger with a Mexican flare. As a result, the merging of flavors and cultures will allow people to experience bolder, spicier, exotic flavors. Also, through Michael’s observations with the heavy presence of the recession affecting the well being of many American’s, people are forced to dine at home and there’s an opportunity for them to use more exotic flavors to spice up old meatloaf or chicken. Anderson started his company Spice Crafters in Apr. 2010 and after trials and errors, he perfected his first spice blend in his kitchen and christened it Primo 27 which he launched in Aug. 2010. The naming of his spice blend was a cognitive effort, with Primo meaning “the top” and 27 the number of spices that were used in the blend like turmeric, cori-

ander, allspice, and smoked paprika. He wrote the formula on a paper before he tried it and meticulously studied each individual spice and their characteristics before the final product. Anderson draws pride from the fact that his spice blend has a distinct color, flavor and fragrance that will help set his product apart from numerous seasoning products offered by major seasoning corporations. With Primo 27, customers can expect his seasoning to not be processed with fillers, unnecessary agents, or MSG. Every spice used in his blend comes in its natural form and then is broken down to a powder. Anderson believes in using spices and seasonings as they were intended by nature and receives most of his ingredients from farms located in the Napa Valley and from Hungary and Spain. As his company expands, he intends to go to specific locations directly and observe where his spices are grown so he can have a more hands approach with the creation of his spices. Unlike his competitors, he develops spices to be consumed, and receives immediate feedback by his consumers. By selling Primo 27 on his website SpiceCrafters.com and at Farmer’s Markets, the feedback of his customers has been favorable with 80 percent of those that taste his blend usually end up purchasing his product. He sees a potential to segment his target market by selling directly to the consumer through avenues like national catalogs and direct to consumer television programming like QVC. Although major distribution is a goal for his product and company, it’s not his priority. At the moment, he is concentrated on developing and growing his company and brand with his two year plan that includes possible spin off products like oils infused with spices, flavored mustards and mayonnaises. Joe Paterno once said, “Success without honor is an unseasoned dish; it will satisfy your hunger, but it won’t taste good.” This isn’t true for Michael Anderson’s “Primo 27”. He’s destined to garnish his honor with the flavor of his success and allow the world to indulge him in the well seasoned dish of his achievements. For more information about Primo 27 please visit Spicecrafters.com.

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Golf 101 Back To The Basics S P O R TS & R E C R E AT I O N

Golf is a great game: sometimes rewarding, often frustrating but highly addictive. Getting started in it is actually not so difficult, and hopefully this article can help you avoid some of the common pitfalls. Frank J. Peter: courtesy of learnaboutgolf.com

The very first steps. The biggest mistake made by people wanting to start in golf is to rush out and buy a brand new set of shiny and expensive golf clubs. While they are nice to look at you should keep in mind that today’s golf equipment comes in great varieties to cater for different golfing types and abilities. Since you’re just starting out you do not know which set fits you best. Just imagine the envious looks you get at the driving range when you come with your $2000 set, and the subsequent laughter when you try and just ‘hack away’ not worth the embarrassment!

Once you spend a few hundred or even thousands of dollars on a set that doesn’t suit your style you’re stuck with it or you have to sell it to somebody else at a loss. If you feel you want your own clubs get a half set. This generally comprises five irons and perhaps two woods and a putter. Usually the irons are the odd numbers 3,5,7,9 and wedge. These clubs are more than enough to get you started. A better alternative: most driving ranges will have clubs for hire, so you can try out a few different ones. You can also borrow one or two clubs from a friend. The shortest

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iron (nine iron) or a wedge are the best clubs to start, practicing with it will give you the feeling of hitting the ball in the air and should be fairly straight forward. Where to get golf clubs?

Most Pro shops and driving ranges sell second hand clubs. They will also be able to offer you advice and let you try some clubs out. Alternatively, nearly all driving ranges will have clubs for hire if you want to have a go without committing to a set until you get the hang of it. Or ask other people at the driving range, you will soon find out that

many have another set of clubs at home because they made the exact same mistakes I mentioned above. Make sure you try before you buy, if they fit (and only if they fit!) you can often get them for a steal. Make use of these opportunities, and also take a look at our website, LearnAboutGolf.com, as to how to choose a club. I again stress that you need to have a basic understanding on which club suits you reasonably well before you buy. DO NOT buy expensive brands at this stage. “I want to play, I want to play!” As hard as it will

be to contain yourself, don’t even contemplate going anywhere near a golf course. Golf is technically quite demanding, and without at least some basic training you’ll end up with a lot of frustration. You’ve seen the top players on TV losing their cool in frustration, imagine how you will feel if not even a single shot goes where you want it to. Besides, the other people having to wait for you will also not be happy. As a beginner at the great game of golf, start off at a driving range,

take at least four or five lessons, learn the fundamentals, progress to a 9 hole course and eventually venture out into the great unknown of an 18 hole golf course. Believe me, it will be a lot more fun for you and those around you if you follow this path. Where to get lessons?

You will meet plenty of people at the range who will teach you the ‘innermost secrets’ of golf. Fact is that most of them have started playing not long before you. So the answer to the above question is: go to a Professional. As you have seen on TV, even the world’s top players have a coach. Tiger Woods, probably the best golfer the world, still takes lessons. Certified Golf Professionals are the only people qualified to teach you how to play the game. Lessons from a Pro will cost you money but will be the best investment you’ll ever make. Taking the advice from the ‘know-itall’ people at the range will likely screw-up your game at the very early stage, and it will take a long time to correct the faults later. The two places to get golf

lessons are at driving ranges and golf clubs. You don’t have to be a member of a club to get a lesson from the Pro. You bring in money, so they will be glad to help. The usual cost is about $25-40 per 45 min, but you will get reductions for a block booking. If you are a bit on the budget see if they do group bookings, those are also cheaper than individual lessons. What else to do? Books and videos can be invaluable in learning the basics. To build a sound golf swing you will need the three fundamentals: Grip, Stance and Posture. There are some very good books and videos on the market that will help you to establish the three fundamentals. And watch the Pro’s on the TV, or better still video them and play back in slow motion, you’ll learn a lot this way. Don’t get blinded by too much science, you’re still a beginner. Stick to Grip, Stance and Posture and you’ll be on your way. Take a look at the golf tips and golf lessons on our website, LearnAbout Golf.com, for some advice as well.

TIPS 1

Don’t waste your money on expensive clubs until you have reached a basic level of competency.

Don’t go near a golf course until you have reached a basic level.

Get lessons from a qualified professional.

Learn the three fundamentals

Watch the pro’s.

Practice.

Learn the rules of golf and basic golf etiquette.

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S P O R TS & R E C R E AT I O N

Changing The Game

After 19 seasons, Shaquille O’Neal calls it quits on his own terms BY DARREN J. HUTCHINSON

One of the great centers to play in

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the NBA, Shaquille O’Neal retired in June. His legacy is one to be remembered. With his thundering alley hoop dunks, backboard shattering slams and massive frame, Shaq put a lasting stamp on the NBA. His stats are amazing in comparison to the game’s other centers in his time and times past. This 1993 rookie of the year went on to amass 15 all-star appearances, 1 MVP, 4 championships, 3 finals MVP’s, and 2 scoring championships to name some accolades. He was drafted number 1 in Orlando and ended in Boston. During his career, Shaq played for several teams, including Orlando, the Lakers, Miami, Phoenix, Cleveland and Boston. I never thought that Shaq would leave Orlando and hated seeing him go, but his choice brought him what every player is in search of, Gold and Diamonds. If he would’ve stayed in Orlando, no one knows if he would have won like he did. The only reason Shaq doesn’t have more rings and isn’t named the greatest center ever is because of the 55 percent from the free throw line that slowed him down. If Shaq’s free throws were anything like his dunks, we might have said he was the most dominate NBA player of his time. In his prime, Shaq may have been the second most feared guy to play ball next to Michael Jordan. He redefined the definition of the term ‘big man.’ I propose this question, “If Shaq would’ve stayed with Kobe and the two of them would have worked out their differences, how many championships would he have? We enjoyed you Shaq Daddy and wish you much success with your future endeavors.

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MIN D, B OD Y A N D S O U L

Prevention is the Key

5 Quick Tips for Living A Healthier Life Today When we begin to think about the state of our

health, most often, we are reactive versus being proactive. Today, let’s discuss prevention. Prevention is defined as “the act of preventing or impeding.” This term as it stands can be applied to every area of life. I would like to just focus on health and preventative measures! If you are anything like me, then you may have a family/genetic history that predisposes you to various disease states. Some of those examples include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and or diabetes to name a few. So, if this is you, then listen up! We only have one life to live and what we do now in regards to our health, will greatly impact our future and health history. Here’s a guideline of some things we can do now to maintain a healthy life and decrease our chances of living out what our genes say. 1. Make healthier choices. Many times when people begin down the road of a lifestyle change they become overwhelmed, this is partly because we want to make drastic adjustments right away. News flash... it took some time for you to acquire bad habits so it’s going to take some time to learn new ones...maybe even longer than it took you to acquire the bad habits! Be patient with yourself!

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2. Be active! Physical activity is so important in maintaining good health! It’s great for heart health...keeps the old ticker ticking and it keeps you kicking! It’s also a great stress reliever...and besides, when you’re getting physical activity on a regular basis, you just feel good! 3. Get plenty of rest! Many of us are so focused on life, family, and goals that we’re willing to sacrifice sleep to get some things done and to take care of others. Now, I’m not saying it’s a bad thing because I’m guilty of it too but the bottom line is this...our bodies need time to recuperate and rejuvenate! Otherwise, the body will begin to retaliate in ways we may not like! So let’s make a pact to GET SOME REST! 4. Minimize stress! Easier said than done in some cases however, to the best of your ability remove unnecessary stressors from your life! Also, evaluate how you currently deal with stress and some things you can do to improve how you handle it! 5. Take some ME TIME, schedule it if you need to! It’s so important to have some down time! So there you have it! A few key things you can implement today...preventative measures! By implementing these few steps, you are vowing that your genes will not get the best of you! Remember that Prevention is the KEY, to YOUR Health!

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BY Dr. LaKeidra S. Capers

MIN D, B OD Y A N D S O U L

The

DOC IS IN

RYSE Magazine’s Interview with Dr. Ron Fulmore II, of Fulmore Chiropractic Care By Alicia Mitchell

head or suffered from a serious injury, the first thing you want is pain relief…fast. In today’s fast-forward society people have grown accustomed to taking some form of pill or product to numb the hurt, but not heal the cause. Let Dr. Ron breakdown the basics of pill overload and offer a natural prescription to health.

Alicia Mitchell: WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ON THE STAGE OF HEALTHCARE TODAY? Dr. Ron: If you go to a primary healthcare provider,

they’ll prescribe pain pills to make your pain feel better, but the cause will still be there. In actuality, they could be causing more damage. Prescription drug overdoses kill more people than car accidents, shootings, or stabbings. Even more alarming is the United States makes up only 4.6 percent of the

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world’s population, but consumes 80 percent of the amount of pain pills in the world. If they were to go to a chiropractor, they’ll try and find the actual cause of the problem, rather than treat the symptoms. AM: EXPLAIN THE CHIROPRACTIC APPROACH TO HEALTHCARE Dr. Ron: Our philosophy is there are steps to health

and being healthy. You’ll be amazed as to what your body can do. You shouldn’t go straight to surgery or popping pills. People should entertain a natural approach first. A lot of people spend the first 40 years of their life killing themselves and once they turn 40, they want to take everything they can to stay young. Instead of reacting, they can be proactive and start taking care of themselves right now. If you go to a chiropractor, we can steer you in the right direction

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If you ever stubbed your toe, bumped your

as far as nutrition, exercising and educating you on natural approaches. We’re not just about back pain. Chiropractors should be looked at as a resource in the community. AM: WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO PURSUE CHIROPRACTIC? Dr. Ron: My father is a chiropractor and

has been practicing more than 25 years. I was adjusted the day I was born and I’ve experienced the benefits of chiropractic my entire life. When I see others kids getting sick and getting ear infections, I’ve never experienced that. I’ve always had the natural approach to things. I have great health and I believe it’s from my chiropractic philosophy passed along through my father. AM: WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ON ALL THE 1-800 FLY-BY-NIGHT ADVERTISING OPERATIONS? Dr. Ron: People think chiropractic is a hip

and trendy song. These jingles are giving chiropractic a bad name, that’s not what we’re about. Your number one priority should be getting patients healthy, not making money. We draw people in with good health care, not slogans. AM: WHAT EXACTLY IS CHIROPRACTIC? Dr. Ron: The brain controls the entire

Dr. Ron Fulmore II believes that regular visits to a chiropractor should be a part of every person’s preventative healthcare plan.

body and in order for the brain to communicate with the vital organs, it first has to go through the spinal cord. If you have any type of trauma to your body, it could slip one of the vertebras and pinch one of the many many million nerves. It could be a nerve going to your stomach for digestion or a finger. Our job, as a chiropractor, is to get rid of any interference to your nervous system, so it can work at 100 percent. And with your body working at its optimum level, your body could heal faster, think clearer and allow you to move quicker in sports. AM: HOW OFTEN SHOULD SOMEONE SEE A CHIROPRACTOR? Dr. Ron: It depends on the severity of your

problems; every treatment option varies. If you come for maintenance care, once or twice a month is adequate, to make sure your nervous system is working at a premium level.

AM: IS CHIROPRACTIC TREATMENT EXPENSIVE? Dr. Ron: To be honest, preventative medi-

cine is less expensive than waiting until your sick. You’ll save money in the long run if you take care of yourself now. Healthcare doesn’t have to be expensive, but it’s priceless. Without your health, what do you have? The whole concept of masking the pain will kill you. AM: HOW CAN YOU DISTINGUISH BETWEEN A GOOD OR BAD CHIROPRACTOR? Dr. Ron: You should feel better after your

first visit and every visit thereafter. If you’re not feeling better, that’s a red flag. You need to have quality time with your doctor and be treated by a doctor, not an assistant, associate or intern. If you come to Fulmore Chiropractic, you’ll receive treatment by Dr. Fulmore every time. AM: CAN YOU EXPLAIN PERSONAL INJURY PROTECTION (PIP) COVERAGE? Dr. Ron: Florida is one of twelve no-fault

states. Under no-fault automobile insurance laws, the good driver does not have to prove that the crash was somebody else’s fault. His insurance company picks up medical bills, rehabilitation costs and lost wages. When it comes to physical damage to your car, insurance claims are based on fault and is handled by a car accident attorney. With over two decades of outstanding service to the Central Florida area, Fulmore Chiropractic is aided by a loyal staff with over ten years of experience. Dr. Ron joined his father, Dr. Ronald Fulmore, Sr. to continue the tradition of excellence in service and education. Dr. Ron recently returned from a two week Medical Mission trip to Nairobi, Kenya where he introduced hundreds to their first chiropractic adjustment. Dr. Ron’s approach to chiropractic is spreading a new understanding of holistic medicines and non-invasive procedures to maintain total harmony within the body. For more information visit www.fulmorechiropractic.com

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10 L IFE S TYL E

I often speak at various

high schools and colleges across the nation on the subjects of success and overcoming obstacles. While I have a passion for all youth and young adults determined to succeed, I have a deep connection with young men as a result of my own struggles and trials growing up. Often during my presentations, I share things that I wish someone would have shared with me in my early years as I obliviously navigated my way through life. For young men in high school, college, or the world, here are a few things I’ve learned that will hopefully help you along your way:

Things Young Men Should Know BY J. Jackson Sr.

the crowd trying to keep up with the status quo. The only vague resemblance of a goal is their aspiration to be successful, often defined by monetary achievements. Success is not about becoming a millionaire. Success is about achieving clear and concise goals that maximize

and utilize those skills to accomplish your predetermined goals.

Develop An Appetite For Learning. It has often been said, “What I don’t know won’t hurt me.” The harsh reality is that what you don’t know hurts you every day. Therefore, you must learn to develop an appetite for knowledge. As knowledge is acquired, it must be applied. You must go to the library, to the book stores, to the seminars, to the classes, to the training. As you seek knowledge, you will begin discover ideas, inspiration, and opportunities. You will find the answer to the questions you have been asking as well as the answers to the questions you didn’t know to ask.

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Set Goals For Yourself. Ralph Waldo Emerson said, “The world makes way for those who knows where he is going.” Yet, too many times young men find themselves lost, following

your true potential. It is about performing in the very essence of your capabilities and enjoying a life that is fulfilling. Set goals for yourself—personally and professionally. Recognize the natural talents you possess. Work hard at developing those talents into skills

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Handle Your Business. Successful women are turned off by a man with a life full of drama and unfinished business. However, a man who has himself together and knows where he is going is an attractive prize. Spend less time chasing women and more time focused on handling your business and you will begin to notice women focusing and pursuing you.

Ask For Help. A man’s pride can be the cause of his refusal to ask for help. We will drive around in circles lost for hours before eventually swallowing our pride and asking someone for directions. When it comes to navigating through life, you do not have time to let foolish pride stand in the way of you obtaining your goals. Understand that there is no such thing as a selfmade man. Anyone who has achieved any significant level of success did so as a result of someone or many people preparing them for and/or providing them with an opportunity. Remember, a closed mouth doesn’t get fed.

Never Give Up. The history books are full of individuals who have defied the odds and overcome numerous obstacles to succeed in life. While they all had many different personalities, one characteristic they all possessed was their ability to persevere despite their unfavorable situations and circumstances. You must understand that nothing in life worth having will come easy. It will be your ability

to persist through difficult times that will separate you from those who only dream of success.

Choose Your Friends Wisely. Be careful who you associate yourself with. People will judge you by the company you keep. Your friends will also play a large role in the things you achieve in life. Good friends with goals of their own will encourage you and stretch you further than you ever believed your abilities would take you. Bad friends with no goals of their own and no concrete plans for their life will take great pride in talking you out of yours. Meet new people, explore new things, think for yourself, and surround yourself with positive people who want the most out of life.

Own At Least One Suit. Every man should own at least one suit — whether it is black or blue. There are occasions where you can try pulling off a shirt and tie, but there is still nothing as powerful, timeless, and well received as a well-dressed man in a suit for events such as job interviews, weddings, funerals and dinners, etc. T-shirts are fine when you are at play, but nothing beats a suit when it’s time to handle business.

Give Respect To Get Respect. Look a person in the eye as you firmly shake their hand. Learn to use words like ‘thank you’. Open doors and let the lady go through first, pull out the chair for the woman/ women you’re with, refer to older men and women as

So many young men find themselves lost simply because they are not fully aware of who they are. ‘sir’ and ‘ma’am’, walk tall, and speak in a pleasant tone. It’s okay to apologize and admit the times when you are wrong. Don’t call a woman out of her name, even if she is not acting like a true lady. And most of all, respect you. If you want to be respected, you must first look like you are respectable. If your pants have belt loops, you should wear a belt that keeps your pants above your waist. It may not feel cool to you, but it’s respectable worldwide.

Listen. Learn to listen. You can learn a lot by listening and people can learn a lot about you. Many people talk as an effort to convince others of their intellect. Ironically, it is the ones who say very little that often times possess true wisdom. The art of listening also involves knowing when and when not to speak. Understand that some things are better left unsaid. Perhaps novelist Carlos Ruiz Zafón said it best with his quote, “Fools talk, cowards are silent, wise men listen.”

Learn Your History. So many young men find themselves lost simply because they are not fully aware of who they are. While Dr. Martin Luther King, Marcus Garvey, and Malcolm X played a significant role in the advancement of the African American race, there are so many others who made similar contributions and sacrifices, but did not receive much of the glory. You must take time to study your lineage. Study the stories and history of the individuals whose blood flows through your veins. You must understand that you come from the strongest, smartest, most creative, and most passionate people. Your ancestors have endured much more than you could ever imagine so you can have more opportunities then you ever imagined. Learn your history and it will inspire you to create your own. There are so many more things I want to share with you, but if you at least start with these 10, you will be well on your way to becoming the next generation of strong, powerful men, fathers, and leaders. And remember to also strive to RYSE to the top because the bottom is simply too crowded.

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E MP O WE R M E N T

Turning Weaknesses Into Opportunity

BY MILIO ALDEA ver had anyone tell you, “Your weakness is _____”. Ouch! I don’t know how much people realize how the word “weak” can hurt someone’s selfesteem. Nobody likes being called weak or told they can’t do something. “Don’t say you can’t do pull-ups. Say that you’re currently struggling with pull-ups.” That was a powerful statement made by Tony Horton on his P90X program. Stop identifying weaknesses and start identifying ways to get better. Identifying weaknesses is what everyone else does. Not you! By now it’s understood that being positive is the only option to attract positive people.

you I am very bad at that too. And I’m probably the worse killer-whale trainer you’ll ever meet.” The interviewer won’t expect a response like that and he/she will know that you have one of the most contagious skills in sales. Humor! If they happen to ask you, “no but seriously,” then answer, “I would do weak presentations if I didn’t prepare for them, but I am always fully prepared before I present. I would do weak sales pitches, if I didn’t know about this company, but I am the person that will motivate people to call you to do business. I’m currently struggling at

making you 1 million dollars in sales, because I don’t have the job yet. But it seems I’m making progress to making that happen as well.” Smile big and make complete eye contact when delivering that. You’re almost there Please don’t miss the point. To identify a weakness is to subconsciously convince yourself that you are not going to improve at it. Four years ago, I struggled in sales, but never identified it as a weakness. It was an opportunity to get better at it. You get good at what you do by believing in it, preparing and taking action.

You can be extraordinary at what you do if you start today, by developing the new mindset it requires,and guess what? You’re only one book away from being knowledgeable, one audio CD from being motivated, one YouTube video away from being inspired, a couple of Networking Events away from knowing what works, and a handshake away from meeting a person that will walk with you all the way to the bank.

If you’re applying for a sales job and the interviewer happens to ask you: “Tell me what your weaknesses are?,” don’t say, “I don’t have any weaknesses.” Even though it could be the truth, the interviewer might not believe you. You are great, but they don’t know that. Show them how great you are by responding with, “I’m a very bad astronaut. I’ve never ridden a horse, so I can assure

36 RYSE MAGAZINE | J U LY/ A U G U S T 2011

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INTERVIEW TIP

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E MP O WE R M E N T

Uncommon Success in an Uncommon Economy

How Changing your mindset Changes Everything BY Dio Pouerie

guishing writers and thinkers, in 1953 Isaiah Berlin adopted the idea that “The fox knows many things, but the hedgehog knows one big thing.” The fundamentals of this approach advocates that hedgehogs are those who view the world through a focused lens of a defining idea, while foxes draw on a wide variety of experiences. In Good to Great, Jim Collins further discusses this principle suggesting that great success is achieved through adopting the focus of the hedgehog. This frame of thought promoted questions of self-evaluation as an effort to determine if it is the adoption of the hedgehog or the fox that positions one for greater success. Jim Collins further discusses this principle and, via his research of defining extraordinary leaders, suggests that in order to achieve great success, an adoption of the hedgehogs focus is key. More dreams, success, and goals are destroyed because of the lack of focus. I once heard someone say that the easiest way to kill someone’s dream is to simply introduce another. Many move prematurely from one dream to another or com-

pletely relinquish their goals due to unexpected roadblocks and self-doubt. I recall a response given by one of my mentors some time ago. He reminded me that success is not dependent on luck; rather it is founded on a level of unwavering focus. While we were driving in his extravagant car, leaving his grandiose estate where he had his phenomenal wife; I said to him with much enthusiasm, “You are so lucky to have all this!” Without hesitation, he snatched me out of that mindset and said in a very serious tone, “it has NOTHING to do with luck”. And he was right. The price he paid was one that few would be willing to go through. It takes a level of unwavering focus to achieve extraordinary success. Success is not what you want, it’s what you pursue. If you have the audacity to pursue an uncommon dream amidst a failing environment, here are three tips to help in your pursuit: 1. Surround yourself with the right crowd.

Ask yourself: Am I the smartest in my circle of friends? If so, then congratulations, but you are making one of the greatest errors that will inhibit great-

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As a method of distin-

ness. You must put yourself in uncomfortable situations. It does not feel good to be the least accomplished in a group, but it stretches you. Benjamin Franklin said it best, “The more I learn, the more I realize I don’t know.” Build your network carefully as your network will ultimately determine your net-worth. 2. Think Big. The only limi-

tation you have as to what you can accomplish is in your mind. Nothing great was ever built by thinking small. Remember, your thinking and achieving big will remind others of what they dared not to do. Great success sometimes requires

Many move prematurely from one dream to another or completely relinquish their goals due to unexpected roadblocks and self-doubt. a level of focus that disregards what the surrounding environment (economy, family, friends, even self) may be telling you. 3. Don’t let the highs get too high, nor the lows too low. Whether

you are running your own company, are in management, or currently unemployed, always operate in

a state of consistency. If things are going better than ever before, continue to work toward a level of improvement. If the reverse is true and the world appears as though it is about to collapse on your shoulders, be reminded that it’s only temporary and still work on your continual improvement. Making permanent decisions at either level without habit-

ual and continual improvement will be detrimental. Never again allow yourself to meander in any state of mediocrity; success is no respecter of a person and is up for grabs. You too can have uncommon success in an uncommon economy. Since applying the hedgehog’s level of focus, my career path has become a succession of rehearsals in preparation for a great recital. Amidst a recession, I have founded 2 companies; one of which is an Independent Venture Capital & Financial Public Relations Firm that has realized a million dollars in revenue since its inception in April 2009.

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L O V E & HA P P I N E S S

Are You Successful and Lonely?

Many women today find themselves Successful but So Single

After a long week of work, unfortunately most Single and successful women are battling the 5 oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;clock traffic jam and dreading the moment they open the door to a beautiful home with no one waiting to greet them. Nobody except their 6 year old straight hair and the sight of an over flowing garbage can that needs to be emptied.

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photo courtesy of runyaro

BY Samuel Lee

If a man’s right to be the ultimately decision maker in a relationship is taken, his natural instinct as a man is taken as well. Most successful women picture themselves on top of the corporate ladder, raising beautiful kids and married to the man of their dreams. That’s not the case for many successful women. Many of my date coaching clients are professionals, successful in their fields, but have no idea why they’re single. These same clients say they’re single because of the lack of quality men in their area and lack of respect from men they’ve dated in the past and an abundance of promiscuous women that most successful men lust for. Those excuses sound great to the untrained ear. Being successful and alone can be embarrassing, leaving one bitter and jealous of friends. Successful women have been in the drivers seat for most of their lives. Becoming independent and successful has been not only a challenge within the pressures of corporate America but the maintenance of that success is dually as tough. It’s been found that women that drive towards success and complete independence are subsequently single. On the flip side successful men that have the same burning desire to achieve have an abundance of women to date. Now, as successful people know if two corporate titans are placed in the same room, both will maintain that “there is only room for one to lead.” Unfortunately this corporate attitude transcends to the relationship and the bedroom of many successful couples.

The question arises of who’s going to relinquish the power in the relationship if a relationship can even be cultivated. This is the question I am faced with when helping my successful and single female clients. The answer is “Play the game, or stand on the side line and watch everyone else play.” Men want to take care of women and lead their families. It’s modern to burn more bras and scream equal rights, but in the bedroom it’s still 2000 BC. If a man’s right to be the ultimately decision maker in a relationship is taken, his natural instinct as a man is taken as well. Men have come far in terms of accepting the successes of women. But they still expect to be the nonsubmissive, final decision making Alpha males in our relationships. Most successful women have found comfort in being non-submissive, the final decision maker and an alpha female in life. This thought process turns the most eligible and successful men completely off. Again, most men need to “feel” superior. Notice, it said “feel” superior. Males need to “feel” like they are the center of the earth and the end of the decision making process lies with them. Many women try to argue with this stand down “Play the Game” approach, but if you have not tried it you lose your right to complain. Make men feel as if we are in control of the world while you stand back and pull our strings!

Ten more ways to improve your dating life today are:

Admit it is your fault you are single and you have all the power to change your dating life.

Start taking accountability for all of your bad relationships, take responsibility in the fact that YOU started dating them knowing exactly who they were.

Give the next guy that shows an interest in you a chance.

Don’t sleep with him on the first date!

Go to at least one different happy hour a week and introduce your self to who you find attractive. (Yes, you approach him!)

Throw away your “What a man must have” list. Because that list has you very single and leaves you looking for SUPERMAN!

Start going out by yourself to dinner, the movies and doing other things you think requires a presence of a man as a date.

Start approaching and engaging men you think will be a good match for you.

Stop entertaining the “Male bashing” with your other single friends.

Start hanging out with friends who are in healthy and committed relationships. They have other friends who are like them too. Samuel Lee is known to most as Mr. Date Coach. He’s helped many men and women deal with the realities of their dating life. His tips have helped clients find success in their dating lives.

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L O V E & HA P P I N E S S

Relationships Do NOT fail

BY Misha N. Granado am

always

intrigued

when

people say, “It didn’t work out”, when a relationship ends, usually followed by a diatribe of how the other person is lacking this AND that or they are the worst person on earth or ____________ (feel free to fill in the blank with your own examples). Our perception determines our reality. Events (including relationships) are just that, events, however our interpretation of said events influences our experience as a result. ‘Once we change the way we look at things, the things we look at change’ (Neale Donald Walsch). Adhering to this perspective, I do not subscribe to the notion that a breakup or a relationship ending is a failure or unsuccessful. Nor do I view it as a dichotomy: winners/losers, right/wrong, your fault/ their fault, etc; instead I believe relationships (romantic, professional, personal) are what they are, for as long as they are until the purpose has been fulfilled. At times, we can have a limited, narcissistic perspective on life which hinders our ability to comprehend the grand scheme. With our limited perspective (microscopic view) we do not recognize the various seeds which were planted, lessons learned or taught and tools obtained or given during each of these experiences. It is not until the tree/plant/flower begins to blossom or

Once we change the way we look at things, the things we look at change —Neale Donald Walsch we pull out the appropriate ‘tool’ in a new situation or we no longer make the same mistakes that we become aware of the purpose of the relationship. Reflection

Take a few moments to reflect on a relationship which ended (one you have gotten over) and try to remember how you felt when it happened. Maybe the event was losing a job, or not getting accepted into a particular school. Perhaps you felt devastated, believing you could and would never love again or advance your career. Maybe you were angry and blamed the other person for months even years (are you still blaming them?). Now fast forward to the time when you finally let go of the anger, sadness, blame, hurt, etc and were able to reflect on the event. What

did you realize? Perhaps you were finally able to recognize your role in the relationship, or maybe learned valuable lessons about which characteristics in another (potential partner) expand or decrease your happiness. Or maybe it was not until you landed the ideal job, entered into a wonderful romantic relationship or decided to backpack through Europe for a year that you finally realized life has more to offer and your personal journey is consistently evolving which requires endings in order for there to be beginnings. Activity

Who have you incarcerated in your emotional/mental prison due to your inability to forgive? Grant a pardon to them today, releasing them, in actuality releasing you. Send them on their way with love and give thanks for the moments you two shared, lessons learned and tools obtained. Each of your experiences (romantic, professional, social, etc) all contribute to make you who you are and more importantly provide the tools and seeds needed to cultivate your love garden. Therefore, give thanks to all of your past loves and experiences for they have contributed to the person you are today and all future events will shape who you are destined to be.

“If your only source of love is from an external source, you are at the mercy of that source; however, if your love reservoir dwells within, you have a sustainable, renewable source of love which will never run dry.” –Misha N. Granado, MPH, MS Misha N. Granado, MPH, MS is the Executive Director of Love Grows, a boutique consulting group offering interactive workshops, mentorship, motivational speaking, books and relationship tips and tools to empower, strengthen and honor all relationship dynamics. To learn more please visit www.thelovewithinexperience.com. 42 RYSE MAGAZINE | J U LY/ A U G U S T 2011

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L O V E & HA P P I N E S S

Evans Reaves & Lashea Laster Wedding: Mystic Dunes Golf Club & Resort Honeymoon: Jamaica How they met: Evans is a Health Information Manager with Orlando Health. Lashea is an Investment Management Specialist. The couple met while attending Florida A&M University in 2004.

Forever &

Dio & Tekoa Pouerie

Wedding: At Heaven in Orlando, Fl Honeymoon: The Atlantis Resort on Paradise Island How they met: Dio is a Minister, an accomplished Business Owner and renowned Motivational Speaker. Tekoa is a Minister, Entrepreneur, Author and International Speaker. They met at church and developed a relationship after being appointed by their Pastor to lead the Business Ministry at their church.

Recently married? Visit RYSEMagazine.com for more information on how to be featured in the pages of RYSE Magazine. 44 RYSE MAGAZINE | J U LY/ A U G U S T 2011

RYSE Magazine would like to celebrate the recent unions of the following couples.

photos courtesy of Evans Reaves & Lashea Laster; Dio & Tekoa Pouerie

Always

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A MEN C OR N E R

Sowing In Purpose Reaping A Fruitful Harvest BY Tatianna Aker Soil and its texture are key

in soil that is well cultivated produce the harvest for which it was intended. Just as soil content affects its ability to retain proper nutrients that promote growth, investing your talents, expertise, and knowledge in avenues that are not apt to productivity will hinder the potential of a fruitful, well-meaning harvest. So, before you invest your time, money, or abilities into a special project, partnership, or business venture, seek godly guidance and wisdom and make sure the ground in which you are sowing is equipped to receive, nurture, cultivate, and produce a healthy harvest. As you sow seeds and evaluate the soil of others, donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget to cultivate your own ground ensuring it too is suitable for harvesting. Blessings!

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determiners in how or if a seed sown is appropriately nurtured and cultivated. A seed planted in soil that is improperly prepared, tainted by extreme measures of cold or heat, or overwhelmed by too much water will fail to germinate correctly, ultimately forfeiting the purpose of production. While seed sowing is essential to receiving a harvest, the composition of the soil in which the seed is being planted is of equal importance. When soil is too cold, a planted seed will develop haphazardly or fail to develop at all. If the soil is too hard, the seed cannot penetrate and take root in the ground, thus leaving the seed exposed to dangerous factors such as extreme weather conditions and pests. However, seeds that are planted during appropriate seasons

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TE C H S AVVY

Social Media Marketing Success The Do’s and Don’ts of Social Networking BY DARIEN HILL

As a marketing consultant, I often speak to business professionals that are frustrated by the lack of results they get from social networking. It’s sad, but many people are under the impression that social media is a place to pitch their products and services to anyone that will listen. This leaves many to believe that social networking doesn’t work. The reality is social networking is a viable way to promote and grow your business, if you know how to work it. The following Do’s and Dont’s of social media, if followed correctly, can produce positive results.

Do’s

Do have a plan, goal and marketing objective. Having a plan minimizes wasted time, energy and resources. Do consult with a professional that understands how to navigate the social sphere. Sites like Facebook have specific guidelines which if not followed can cause a profile shut down. Do give great content. Share knowledge with people about what you do and how it can help them solve their problems. Share how-to information, and video tutorials which shows your expertise. Focus on Service, not selling and you will see your fan base grow.

Don’ts

Don’t have a “self promotion” agenda. In other words, if your only reason for being there is to promote yourself, you will not be successful. Avoid blatant marketing tactics, be subtle. I know that you’re thinking, what’s the point of having a subtle marketing campaign? Remember, people love to buy but they don’t like to be “Sold”. Post fun contests, incentives and useful information related to your industry. Don’t forget to update consistently. Once you’ve built your network it’s important to continue to engage and communicate with your fans. Remember, you are either consistent or non-existent. Follow the adage of out of sight, out of mind. Don’t mix business with pleasure. It’s important to maintain a professional image on the social sites. To be safe, create a separate profile/account to promote your business and one for personal use. Some social sites will shut down your profile if you promote business on a personal page. Marketing is an essential part of any successful business. As time and technology changes, business owners must adapt new ways to promote their business. Social Networking is a fundamental shift in the way consumers communicate and make buying decisions. The ability to leverage and utilize this shift can mean success or failure in your business.

Darien Hill is the owner of Hill Marketing Consultants, a full service marketing firm based in Orlando FL. To learn more tips about marketing your business using the internet and social media visit http://myhmconsultants.com to download your Free Report on how to use social media to attract an endless stream of customers. 48 RYSE MAGAZINE | J U LY/ A U G U S T 2011

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NANCY JO brown/106FOTO

Lucas Boyce lives by the belief that we are all built for something more.

Saved by

Grace Born prematurely to a drug and alcohol addicted prostitute, Orlando Magic Executive Lucas Boyce could have easily become a statistic, but wisdom from his adoptive mom, hard work, determination, and opportunity, mixed with grace allowed him to make the most out of the cards he was dealt. BY Ashley Cisneros

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W What started as seemingly a typical Monday

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“I could have very easily had more disabilities or been severely handicapped as a result of my biological mother’s actions.” —Lucas Daniel Boyce

Boyce at six years old with his mother Dorothy Boyce and ten siblings.

photos courtesy of Lucas Boyce

during Lucas Daniel Boyce’s internship at the White House in spring 2002 quickly became a life-changing moment he’d remember forever. A photo opportunity presented itself for Boyce, then 22, to meet then President George W. Bush on the south lawn. They chatted briefly and Boyce posed in the group photo. He thought things couldn’t get any better. But they did. As Boyce began to walk away, he heard the President’s voice call him back for a personal photo. “I do the brother thing, and pulled him in for a hug and shook his hand,” Boyce recalls. There’s nothing that could top that experience, Boyce thought. The next day at work, Boyce’s boss, Ed Moy, told Boyce that he made a real impression on the President the day before. “Hearing this, I got scared because I thought I did something wrong,” Boyce says. “It turns out, President Bush called my boss over after a meeting in the Oval Office to ask about me. He wanted to know my story, and the president asked him, ‘Well, what can we do for him? Let’s bring him onboard.’ ” When hard work, opportunity and determination meet with grace, anything can happen, says Boyce, who served as Executive Assistant to the Counselor to the Vice President, Deputy Associate Director of the Office of Public Liaison, and Associate Director of the Office of Political Affairs at the White House. His promotions at the White House led to his current executive role as Director of Community Relations, Multicultural Insights and Government Affairs for the Orlando Magic. Now only 32 years old, Boyce was barely 29 when hired to an executive position with the Orlando Magic. He was chosen as one of 10 Outstanding Young Americans by the Junior Chamber of Commerce (Jaycees), as a Community Ambassador for the McDonald’s McCafe program, and serves on numerous boards. Boyce is also an accomplished author, speaker and businessman. But Boyce’s story began much humbler.

Boyce at six weeks old with his mother, Dorothy Boyce.

photos courtesy of Lucas Boyce

HARD LESSONS

Modest Beginnings Boyce with Born prematurely in Kansas City, Former President Missouri, to a drug-and-alcohol George Bush in addicted prostitute, Boyce could the Oval office have easily become a statistic. That weeks before the is, until he was sent to the loving end of his term. home of foster care parent and later adoptive mom, Dorothy Boyce. “I could have very easily had more disabilities or been severely handicapped as a result of my biological mother’s actions,” Boyce says. “But as Psalm 139 says, God covers us in our mother’s womb. I will never be able to repay God for his grace.” A believer that everyone is built for something more and made in the image of God, Dorothy adopted 6 children, including Lucas. She had four of her own as well. “That same scripture says that we are fearfully and wonderfully made and my mom adopted a lot of different children who are all perfect in our own little way,” Boyce says. His mother instilled this idea into Boyce when he was a child, especially when developmental delays caused him to struggle in school and flunk kindergarten. Dorothy shared with him her two keys of success, the first being that you can do anything you put your mind to, but you have to believe it first. “The best example I can use for this is boiling water. At 211 degrees, water is just hot. It’s only when it’s at 212 degrees that it becomes boiling water that can become steam, and steam can power a locomotive. If you’re willing to live life at 212 degrees, you can be successful,” Boyce says. “There are a lot of people who function at 180 degrees or maybe 200, but they’re not willing to turn up the heat and do whatever it takes to get the job done. My mother couldn’t guarantee success, but she could guarantee that the likelihood of success

Lucas Boyce’s personal experiences of growing up as a black child of a white mother in Missouri have taught him a lot about race and culture. Growing up with 10 other siblings, some with special needs, plus mission trips to Mexico and Kenya have taught him about compassion and humanity. His mother tells a story of an occasion in which she was teaching Boyce about the parts of the body when he was 14 months old, “She showed me her eyes and my eyes and taught me the word, ‘eyes,’ and continued with my nose, lips and so on,” Boyce says. “At one point during that lesson I took her hand and compared it to mine, noticing the difference. I started to hit myself and say, ‘Bad! Bad!’ It was then that my mother really started to teach us that we were built for something more, no matter our color.” The first time Boyce heard the N-word, he was in Iowa at a nursing home visiting his grandmother for the first time. “I was about 9 and these old women, who had clearly grown up in another time, said, ‘Look at that little N- kid,’” Boyce recalls. Mean children on the school bus would call his mother a whore because they didn’t understand his big family nor adoption. His second encounter with racism came in junior high when he was visiting a friend. They were walking to a store to get some snacks when a big truck drove by. “I heard the driver yell, ‘You better get your N-ass out of town!’” Boyce remembers. “The driver started to spin around to come back, and we took off running in a field to lose him.” When Boyce was ready to be baptized, his uncle refused to baptize him because he was black. Later, he faced opposition from parents of girls he wanted to date in high school. “I got good grades and was the captain of the basketball team and all, but I was black, and that’s all they saw,” Boyce says. Boyce has also experienced cultural struggles related to his identity and what it means to be black. “I still wonder to this day who my real father is,” Boyce says. “It’s difficult, especially around Father’s Day. I keep wondering who he is and if I look like him.” He feels the pressure to represent his race well, and has been told he’s not black enough. “I didn’t grow up going to black churches, and I’ve been told that I don’t talk ‘Black.’ I don’t know what that means, but I do know that you have to speak professionally in order to be successful, respected and taken seriously,” he says. One ah-ha moment happened when Boyce was shopping for suits at All Tied Up Boutique in Orlando. “I’ve never had a real black role model in my life, and I was talking to the owner one day about dating and he told me casually, ‘If a girl doesn’t like you because you’re short, bump her. You are a perfect person the way you are,’” Boyce says. “I almost teared up, because in 32 years of life, I had never had another black man tell me that I was good enough. It was like going to church and I stayed there for about 40 minutes.” J ULY / AUG UST 2 0 1 1 | WWW. RY SEM AG AZ I N E .C OM 5 3

would increase greatly if I lived at a higher level.” The second key was to remember who he was and who he represents. “I make a lot of mistakes, but every time that I’ve followed mom’s two keys of success, even amidst stormy times, I have found the right path,” he says. Growing up as a black child with a white mother was not easy, but Dorothy taught her children that though they may look different on the outside, they are the same inside. One of Boyce’s adopted brothers is Black, and his other siblings are White.

tics and leadership, Boyce confided in her of his goal to work in the White House. Little did he know that he’d achieve all those dreams before the age of 30. One Wonderful Internship Following high school, Boyce took some time to travel to Mexico and Kenya on missionary trips before enrolling in political science and speech communication courses at the University of Central Missouri. Family friends and mentors, John and Lori Perry, allowed

“You never know who is watching, and who is going to be in the position to help you get where you want to go.” Dorothy welcomed all children in her home, and was especially open to children with special needs. One of Boyce’s sisters has Prader Willi Syndrome, and his brother passed away early in life after being born with spina bifida. Dorothy encouraged all of her children to believe in their worth and pursue their dreams. Growing up, Boyce loved playing basketball and idolized Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls. He dreamed about working for the Chicago Bulls one day. The day that the movie Air Force One came out, Boyce was in the front row of the theater. He didn’t know how he was going to do it, but he made it a goal to fly aboard the real Air Force One. After Boyce graduated valedictorian of his high school, Dorothy asked him what he wanted to do. Fascinated by poli54 RYSE MAGAZINE | J U LY/ A U G U S T 2011

Boyce to stay with them during his studies. As a college political science major, Boyce was required to participate in internships, and told Lori that most of his fellow students were seeking opportunities at the state capitol. “But Lori kept reminding me that it was a dream to work in the White House and she encouraged me to research opportunities at the White House,” Boyce says. About four months following 9/11, Boyce was notified that he was one of 100 interns selected for a White House internship from a large pool of applications. “I was so excited, and thought that this was the way that I could mark off working at the White House from my list of goals,” he says. But after that chance meeting with President Bush, Boyce ended up serving at the White House for almost five years.

photos courtesy of Lucas Boyce

—Lucas Daniel Boyce

Far left: Boyce standing in front of Air Force One in Salt Lake City Utah.

photos courtesy of Lucas Boyce

Boyce aboard Air Force One with Former President Bush, Barry Jackson, senior advisor to the president and John Bruning, Nebraska Attorney General.

The typical White House staffer stays at the White House for 14 months. “You never know who is watching, and who is going to be in the position to help you get where you want to go,” Boyce says. “Our reputation is our resume. If I hadn’t arrived to my internship early in the mornings or stayed late working 16-hour days, would I have been chosen for the photo opportunity? Putting myself in the right position and working hard made the likelihood of being selected for the opportunity that much greater.” Education is very important to Boyce, and at the conclusion of his internship, he returned to college and finished early in order to work on President Bush’s re-election campaign. After President Bush won the re-election, Boyce went to the White House and worked for the former counselor to the Vice President in the communications office. Though the experience was fulfilling, the pay made it difficult to live in an expensive city. “I had to begin paying back my student loans and credit card bills, and was put into a position in which I had accomplished my dream, but now had to walk away because I couldn’t sustain it,” Boyce says. Boyce’s time away from the White House didn’t last long, Six months later, he was put in charge of African American Outreach and Professional Sports Outreach. During a trip to New Orleans around the second anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, Boyce learned that there might be a chance to ride in Air Force One on the way back. Ordinarily, Boyce would have flown commercial but the lead White House staffer on the trip, Jason Recher, had something else in mind. “Deputy Director of Advance John Meyer was gracious enough to give up his seat for me so I could fly back on Air Force One,” Boyce says. A few months later, Boyce was promoted at the White

House to oversee a region of the county all the way from Missouri to California. “I had never expected to fly on Air Force One again, but due to my job, I had the blessing of flying with President Bush on Air Force One,” Boyce says. Boyce was grateful to realize his dreams of working at the White and flying aboard Air Force One. A visit from an Orlando Magic executive put him on the path to making his third dream a reality. The Road to Magic At the end of President Bush’s term, Boyce was exploring options for transition, and was preparing for the LSAT. But another opportunity presented itself. This time, Boyce was asked to provide a West Wing tour for Joel Glass, Vice President of Communications for the Orlando Magic. After the tour, Boyce and Glass kept in touch, and eventually Boyce participated in a phone interview. Though there wasn’t a right opening at the time, they stayed in contact. About eight months later, Boyce received an email from the Orlando Magic about a new position focused on multicultural insights, diversity and government affairs. Boyce was elated. Three months later, he was in Orlando, and on his way to fulfilling his third dream—working for an NBA team. Boyce’s position leverages his experiences supporting diversity and inclusion initiatives, community empowerment, influencing policy and managing relationships with government officials. Recently Boyce’s department at the Magic coordinated a meeting for senior White House officials to discuss the economy. Last year, the team worked with the Department of Homeland Security for the first ever naturalization ceremony on court at half time during a Magic game. Though Boyce rarely has a “typical” day, he arises at 5:30 a.m. and has morning worship followed by a little studying and arrives to work between 7 and 7:30 a.m. By 9 a.m., he’s engaged in a series of meetings. Right now, his department is working on a political brief for the Magic’s senior leadership. At the same time, the team is working on a summer nutrition program for underprivileged kids. They are also planning activities for Hispanic Heritage Month in the fall and the Magic’s Thanksgiving service for the Coalition of the Homeless. He does lots of research, business and strategic planning, and conference calls. Peppered throughout the week are speaking engagements and appointments with his mentees. The evening hours are filled with meetings for board commitments like the Orange County Library System or the Central Florida Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, plus appearances at any number of community events. During the basketball season, he leaves work at 6 p.m. and heads straight to Amway Center. At the encouragement of Orlando Magic co-founder, Pat Williams, Boyce wrote a book about his life called Living Proof: From Foster Care to the White House and the NBA. Ten percent of all of his book sales and any speaking fees go toward the Orlando Magic Youth Foundation, which grants funds to non-profit organizations serving children in the focus areas of health and wellness, education and the arts throughout Central Florida. J ULY / AUG UST 2 0 1 1 | WWW. RY SEM AG AZ I N E .C OM 5 5

Amazing Grace Boyce is sometimes told how lucky he is for achieving so much at a young age. “When people tell me I’m lucky because so much has gone right in my life, I tell them that no, it’s God’s grace that lifted me when so much went wrong,” he says. Boyce is no stranger to failure, but credits God, his family and mentors for helping him succeed. “Flunking kindergarten was a painful experience and so was having to leave the White House because of financial reasons,” Boyce says. “I do slip and fall; I’m not perfect. But you shouldn’t live in fear of failure. It doesn’t matter if you fall, it matters that you get up. Want to win more than you are afraid to fail.” He credits his mother as being his first mentor and former secretary of Housing and Urban Development, Alfonso Jackson; Lori Perry; President Bush; and Orlando Magic’s

Courtside with the Orlando Magic Game Presentation Manager, Karly Skladany.

Pat Williams and others as being great influences on his life. “Alfonso grew up during the Civil Rights Movement and he’d march across bridges,” Boyce says. “He has [bite] marks from dogs on his legs. He told me, ‘Lucas, if you could look up, you can get up.’” “Everything I have done is because of God’s grace, and I am responsible to my Heavenly Father. My mission on this earth is to point men to God. One way I can do this is by sharing my story and helping others.” What’s next for Boyce? For one thing, he is focused on completing his MBA at Rollins College, He also wants to pay off his student loans, buy a home and become debt-free. He also wants to have a family one day. “I don’t want to be defined by having to go for the next goal,” he says. “I wouldn’t be anywhere without God. We can plan, but at the end of the day, if we are committed to him he orders our steps. We need God’s grace to make it through. We achieve not by our strength, nor our ability, but that which God has given.”

For more inspiration, purchase Living Proof on Amazon.com for paperback, and your kindle. You can also download the book for your Nook or iPad. 56 RYSE MAGAZINE | J U LY/ A U G U S T 2011

photos courtesy of Lucas Boyce

“Our foundation helps kids who grew up the way that I did. Last year, the foundation was able to grant out $1 million, and I’m trying to help support its mission,” Boyce says. “There wouldn’t be a book without the Magic, and without people like Joel Glass, Alex Martins, our president, and the person who specifically hired me, Linda Landman Gonzales, our VP of community relations and government affairs.” Through his company, Lucas Boyce Holdings Inc., Boyce travels across the nation for community organizations, churches, and corporations alike. Since March 2010, Boyce has spoken to more than 10,000 people. As of January 2011, he’s donated more than $12,000 worth of free speeches. He recently spoke at the sports award banquet for Pace Brantley School, a private school for children with disabilities. “I shared my story about growing up with learning disabilities,” he says. “I struggled in the beginning, but I didn’t let it define me. What defined me was hard work.” He also keynoted the National Urban League’s annual Black Executive Exchange Program (BEEP) conference that took place in Orlando a few weeks ago and traveled to New Orleans as a community ambassador on behalf of McDonald’s McCafe Men project. The project highlights African American men who are trying to make a difference in their community. Helping young people is a very important passion of Boyce’s. He mentors a fatherless boy and several young professionals. Through the Take Stock in Children program at Valencia Community College, Boyce mentors a 17 year-old youth named Cristian. The program provides mentorship and scholarship opportunities for low-income, at-risk children. “We interview the kids when they are in sixth grade, and if they keep their grades up, they receive a scholarship to college,” Boyce explains. One sixth grader who was interviewed this year has a 4.0 GPA despite the fact that her mother is in prison. When asked why she wanted to be accepted to the program, the girl told Boyce that she didn’t want to end up like her mother. “This girl was maybe 12 years old, and already she knew that she was built for something more,” Boyce says. “God’s grace is amazing.”

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P R O FI L E

Building Bridges Across The World Special Assistant to Mayor Teresa Jacobs, Zoraida Velasco is not only focused on economic development within the local community, but in building strong international relationships around the world. BY Ashley Cisneros

“You don’t realize the sacrifices your parents make for you until you’re much older,” says Zoraida Velasco, Special Assistant to Orange County Mayor Teresa Jacobs.

Born in Bogotá, Colombia and raised in Caracas, Venezuela, Velasco’s parents moved the family to Paramus, New Jersey when she was 13 years old so that her father could pursue a post-graduate degree at New York University. Moving to a new place can be difficult on any child, but leaving her childhood friends and moving to a completely new continent proved to be extremely challenging. Velasco moved to New Jersey with her father, Roberto Velasco, a Peruvian international banker, and younger brother, Daniel. Her mother, Margarita Parra de Velasco, a bilingual international realtor, stayed behind in Venezuela temporarily to wrap up the family’s affairs there. The family moved from a penthouse in Venezuela to a second-floor apartment in a two-story home in New Jersey with a shared bathroom. In Venezuela, it was common for many middle-class families to have help, but the family had to start over in New Jersey.

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Zoraida Velasco

“We went from having a lady make fresh-squeezed orange juice for us each morning in Venezuela, to using empty orange juice boxes as garbage bins in our apartment in New Jersey,” Velasco remembers. The family slept on the floor in the beginning because they had no furniture, and Velasco prepared the family meals. “I hated being in the United States at first,” Velasco recalls. “It wasn’t so much the language that was hard, because I attended bilingual school since I was 2 years old, but it was the culture that was so different. I had different clothes, spoke with an accent and the other students gave me weird looks.” Velasco wasn’t use to having to make friends, and spent lunch time in the bathroom at her new school. “I came to the U.S. in the middle of eighth grade, so the other kids had already found their friends and groups,” she says. “It was hard to be accepted.” When she was about to turn 15, Velasco told her family that she didn’t want to have a quinceañera, a traditional Latin birthday party for 15-year old girls similar to a Sweet 16 party in the U.S. They didn’t have family close by, and Velasco desperately missed her life in Venezuela. She opted to spend a month back in South America instead of having the big birthday party.

photos courtesy of Zoraida Velasco

Hired to focus on Economic Development and Hispanic Outreach in Orange County in February 2011, Velasco credits her parents for providing the experiences that led her to the professional success she enjoys today.

The night before she was to return to New Jersey, Velasco’s mother told her that the family would be moving to Orlando, Florida, for a better quality of life. “I was finally making friends in New Jersey, was playing sports and talking to a guy at school, and now I was moving again,” Velasco says. “I did not want to get on that plane back to the U.S.”

New State, New High School

The transition to life in Florida was much easier, than her first move. She started her sophomore year at Lake Brantley High in Altamonte Springs. “I got involved in school, continued to run track, a sport I had practiced since first grade, and played volleyball again,” Velasco says. “I realized that if I didn’t get involved, I wasn’t going to make friends.” Velasco ended up becoming elected as student government president at her school. “That was my first exposure to politics—I campaigned, wrote and delivered speeches and developed a platform,” she says. “I never knew that this experience would help

certification in Spanish translation to keep her skills sharp. Velasco’s parents made sure to provide traveling opportunities and exposure to different cultures to their children. “Maybe we didn’t have fancy watches and namebrand clothes,” Velasco says. “But we’ve traveled all over Europe, the Caribbean, Asia, Canada and Hawaii. We even enjoyed a five-week trip in a motor home.” It was these kinds of experiences that led Velasco to pursue a career related to international business when she enrolled at the University of Central Florida.

Combining Business and Culture in College

Velasco’s interest in business stems from childhood, when she and her brother would find ways to make money. During one summer at a friend’s home, they noticed a big construction site at one end of the road. Seeing an opportunity, they made stuffed empanadas,

“We went from having a lady make fresh-squeezed orange juice for us each morning in Venezuela, to using empty orange juice boxes as garbage bins in our apartment in New Jersey.” —Zoraida Velasco

photos courtesy of Zoraida Velasco

me in college and in my future career.” Keeping her Spanish language skills was very important to Velasco. When she entered high school, she took Spanish in addition to French, plus Advanced Placement courses. “Though I’m a native speaker, it was really important to me to be able to read and write Spanish fully,” she says. Later when she enrolled in college, Velasco earned a

and bought chocolate chip cookies to sell to the workers traveling to and from the construction site. “We’d stick the store-bought cookies into the oven to melt the chocolate a little,” she says. After completing her two years of general education classes at the University of Central Florida (UCF), Velasco learned that the business college had gotten rid of the international business degree. She opted to study eco-

Left: Zoraida Velasco poses with classmates during a college study abroad trip in Strasbourg, France. Top: Velasco was recruited by the Executive Office of Governor Charlie Crist to serve as the Governor’s Special Assistant for the Central Florida and Tampa Bay Regions covering a total area of 24 counties in Florida. J ULY / AUG UST 2 0 1 1 | WWW. RY SEM AG AZ I N E .C OM 5 9

nomics, which had an international track. “Coming from a developing world, I saw first-hand the reality of people living in cardboard boxes and under bridges after being displaced by guerillas,” Velasco says. “I became fascinated in the ways that economic development could change a village and even a country. I learned how trade can empower a nation to be more sustainable.” In line with her dreams of working in international business, Velasco wanted to participate in an exchange program and study abroad during college. When she learned that her college did not yet have an exchange program in place, Velasco researched options and met with her dean to discuss establishing one. She was told that the school she researched abroad wasn’t accredited, and that the credits wouldn’t transfer. “Basically I was told to give up,” she says. “But, I was ready to drop out of my university and use my savings to enroll in the university in Europe to fulfill my dream.” After she and her brother left to Barce-

Zoraida Velasco serves as a Special Assistant to Mayor Teresa Jacobs in Economic Development and Hispanic & Asian Outreach.

“As minorities we don’t always have access to the movers and shakers. We may not even be aware of them, much less influenced by them, so we must make an extra effort to be involved and connect with them.”

lona, two weeks before starting the program, Velasco received an email from the international relations department at UCF notifying her that the exchange program was active. The email also contained a list of study abroad scholarships that were going unused. “We didn’t pay anything to study abroad, and through the scholarships we actually ended up getting paid to study abroad,” Velasco says. “We were the only two students out of 47,000 at UCF studying abroad that year.” Velasco’s persistence was instrumental in the implementation of the first foreign exchange program for the UCF College of Business. Through this study abroad program, she and UCF students got the opportunity to complete a Bachelors of Arts in International Business Administration from a university in France.

Creating Opportunities for Future Leaders Velasco stayed an extra year in college to study abroad, and when she returned from France, she was selected for an internship in the International Business Development Department of the Metro Orlando Economic Development Commission (EDC). Meanwhile, most of Velasco’s friends had already graduated from the university. Entering the “real world” many couldn’t find a job in their program of study, got a job but 60 RYSE MAGAZINE | J U LY/ A U G U S T 2011

realized it was completely different from what they envisioned, or got a job completely unrelated to their program of study. “If my friends had mentors and professional opportunities like the ones I had, I believe that their experiences would be different,” Velasco says. “As minorities we don’t always have access to the movers and shakers. We may not even be aware of them, much less influenced by them, so we must make an extra effort to be involved and connect with them.” Velasco realized that this is what she did naturally, and wanted to create a program and organization on campus to create pathways for other students. She founded Future Minority Leaders (FML) at UCF to foster diversity by promoting the development of minority students and recent graduates in Central Florida through educational, professional, and networking opportunities. “Internships can help students get acquainted with their field, and help them realize if they want to change course while there’s still time,” Velasco says. “Internships can also help students gain the connections they need to get hired upon graduation.” After six months of paper work and other challenges, FML was officially born in December 2006. Today FML has created connections with key companies

photos courtesy of Zoraida Velasco

—Zoraida Velasco

and professionals in the area to fulfill its mission. Velasco serves as an advisor to the group, and wants to help them obtain 501c3 non-profit status. Students from other universities in Florida and Georgia have approached the UCF organization wanting to expand FML to other campuses.

Climbing the Ladder to Success

Upon completing her internship and before graduating from UCF with a B.S. in International Economics, a certificate in Spanish/English translations, and several minors, the EDC hired Velasco full-time. While there, Velasco was responsible for the logistics of high-profile inbound delegations, events, and trade missions as well as managed the development of the EDC’s Minority Channel Initiative. She supported the Chief Operating Officer / Executive Vice President of the Business Development Department, developed proposals, did market research, and assisted with the creation of the organization’s strategic plan. In July 2010, Velasco was recruited by the Executive Office of Gov. Charlie Crist to serve as the Governor’s Special Assistant for the Central Florida and Tampa Bay Regions. Velasco supported the Governor by advancing his pub-

photos courtesy of Zoraida Velasco

As special assistant to Gov. Crist, Velasco often acted as liaison for the Governor with citizens, community leaders, elected officials and various public service groups.

lic appearances, advancing his schedule, and acting as liaison for the Governor with local constituents. During her six months of service, Velasco covered 24 counties out of 67 in the state. “Looking as young as I do, sometimes people wouldn’t take me seriously, but I learned not to take things personally,” Velasco says. “I would get asked if I was an intern, and people were surprised to learn that I was a special assistant. Some people would ask me directly how the heck I got the job.” The experience taught Velasco about government and politics.

“In that role, your bottom line is to provide the best services to the people whom the elected official serves,” she says. The experience with Gov. Crist benefited Velasco in her current role with Orange County Mayor Teresa Jacobs. “I’m responsible for economic development initiatives, and was later asked to serve as a liaison to Hispanics,” Velasco said. “Mayor Jacobs values diversity, and makes it clear that I was hired primarily because of my experience in economic development and international affairs. The fact that I am Hispanic is an added asset, but I was not hired simply because of my heritage.” Velasco is in the process of assisting in the creation of an economic development plan for the county, and she focuses on international relations and international business projects. She accompanies Mayor Jacobs on meetings with foreign dignitaries and attends international events on behalf of the mayor if she can’t be present. Velasco also does Asian outreach for the mayor’s office. In addition to her full-time job, Velasco operates her own translation and consulting services firm, ZV Enterprises, and assists with the operations of Zyndrome Surf Company. A small business owned by her fiancé, Omar Carmona-Sanchez, Esq., who works full-time as a Puerto Rico and Florida licensed attorney here in Orlando. In the future, Velasco wants to attend graduate school in Europe and dreams of working for a global non-profit, or serving as the global social-responsibility officer for a company. Velasco was nominated for the National Hispana Leadership Institute’s Rising Star Award and for the Lighthouse Awards/Premios El Faro. She was also a nominee under the Visionary category for the Girl Scouts of Citrus Council Women of Distinction Award, is the recipient of the Women of Achievement Award for the Women’s Executive Council, and is the youngest recipient to ever obtain a Beacon Award, celebrating diversity. Velasco is most proud of the impact she’s made on the community through groups like FML, Rotary E-Club of the SE USA & Caribbean, the Hispanic-American Professional and Business Women’s Association (HAPBWA) in which she serves as founding co-chair of their young professionals group Aspiring Latinas Ahora Siempre (ALAS), and the Hispanic Chamber. She serves on the President’s Multicultural Advisory Council at UCF, the U.S. Global Leadership Coalition’s Florida Advisory Committee, the Central Florida Partnership’s Young Professionals Advisory Council, among others, and was a founding member of the Peruvian American Chamber of Commerce of Central Florida and Rotaract of Metro Orlando. Velasco advises other up-and-coming young professionals to remember where they come from and give back to the community. She volunteers with numerous charitable organizations from the Heart of Florida United Way to the Orlando Ballet to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. “Follow your passion, be true to what you believe in and be honest with yourself,” she says. “Remember that there’s always someone who helped you get where you are. Paying it forward is our civic duty in society.”

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MO N EY TA L K S

Making Your Cash Grow For years, our parents have always told us, money doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t grow on trees. As we begin to get older and wiser, we understand that this statement is not entirely true. Money actually does grow on trees, but only when you plant the right seeds. If there is one demographic

that needs to become interested in their finances, it is the young adult crowd. Most young adults feel that they have plenty of time in the future to get serious about their finances, but the fact is, making a few good financial choices as early as possible will be even more beneficial than making brilliant choices later. One of the most important financial choices often overlooked by young adults is investing. It can be a scary concept for someone who doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know much about it, but the reality is that you make investment decisions every day. Buying new

shoes is an investment decision. Leaving your savings in a checking account rather than a high yield savings account is an investment decision. Spending $200 on drinks, while hanging out with your friends on a Saturday night, is an investment decision. Truth be told, everything you do with your money is an investment decision, some just have the potential to bring you much larger returns. Financial advisor, Dwayne Gayle of First Command Financial Services offers up these tip to help you get started working on an investment portfolio that will deliver you an ROI (Return on investment):

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BY J. Jackson Sr.

“Everything you do with your money is an investment decision, some just have the potential to bring you much larger returns.”

4 5

Set clear goals: Why are you investing? Is it for short-term or long-term gain? What do you hope to accomplish? Ask yourself these questions before parting with any of your money. Avoid “too good to be true” situations: If an opportunity seems too good to be true, it probably is. Don’t over-extend yourself or wind up in a hole by chasing fantasies. Invest wisely, with planning. Take investing seriously: Investing isn’t a game or a hobby. It’s a calculated financial move designed to yield a net gain. Approach it with caution and intelligence.

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Understand fees and commissions: A fee is a flat rate, while a commission is a percentage. Brush up on the Efficient Market Theory: Basically, this states that stock values are perfectly priced when you factor in all possible known information, so that the only way to really make big money is to take risks. Knowing this will help you plan those risks accordingly.

Don’t be greedy: In addition to the moral issues, greed is a bad financial choice. Just because you see someone making money through a particular investment doesn’t mean it’s a smart one to make. Always, always, always do your homework. Get advice: One of the biggest mistakes you can make is thinking you don’t need help, especially as a beginner. Talk with an advisor with investing experience before starting out. Don’t believe the hype: If you hear about a “hot tip,” ignore it. There’s no such thing as a sure winner or inside scoop, and believing there is will just get you burned.

confront the reality of the situation and save your money while you can. Making the commitment to invest at a young age isn’t easy, but you simply can’t afford to wait to invest when it is convenient. Don’t shy away from investing because you don’t have enough, simply start with making small investments and give them time to mature. You will be overwhelmed by the effects compound interest will have on your money. Investing while you are young is one of the best financial decisions you can ever make.

Be prepared to invest time and money: In addition to the money you’ll want to invest, you should prepare to spend plenty of time studying and researching the market.

Deal with the truth: If you’ve got a losing stock on your hands, no amount of wishful thinking will turn it into a winner. Don’t be afraid to

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L AW A N D O R D E R

The 411 Behind Lawyer Referral Services BY Reganel J. Reeves, Esq. Over the past few years the State of Florida has witnessed an

epidemic of lawyer referral services across various media platforms. Who are these referral services? Why do they advertise so much? What do they seem to be so helpful? Money! Money! Money! The lawyer referral services operating throughout the state understand that there is an abundance of money in the business of hoarding auto accident victims and controlling which doctors can treat the patients and which attorneys can represent the clients. These companies have no vested interest in the quality of services that the injured will receive. These groups are seeking to force law firms and doctors into paying to be part of their network because they cannot compete with the onslaught of advertising done by these companies. Quite frankly, one cannot blame these companies for seeking to capitalize in this capitalistic country. This is America and as Americans we strongly believe in 64 RYSE MAGAZINE | A U G U S T 2011

By Reganel J. Reeves, Esq. Justice League Law Group,L.L.C. www.JusticeLeagueLaw.com Reeves@JusticeLeagueLaw.com 1(877)98-JL-Law

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Don’t Ask Gary, Ask An Attorney

the freedom to make money in a lawful manner and more importantly the freedom of choice. But that’s just it, there is much irony in the fact that these referral services are attempting to steal away the “freedom” of choice from those injured in auto accidents. When an accident victim calls a “411” or an “Ask” number they are failing to utilize their freedom to choose their own lawyers and doctors. Many that are injured may not understand just how important the power of choice is after an auto accident. When an injured accident victim hands away their right to choose their attorney they hand away their freedom to vet prospective attorneys through a series of free consultations and providing the attorney, and the injured an opportunity to build a rapport with one another. I advise those injured in an accident in Florida to exercise your freedom to choose the attorney that is best for you. Do not be lazy and allow big advertising conglomerates to profit from the law firms that choose to sell their advertising souls just to stay in business during these tough economic times. Some of these companies will send an injured victim to any attorney that pays to be in their network regardless of the attorney’s qualifications or reputation. There are many law firms who still seek to gain clients the old fashion ways such as good work, good will, and a good reputation. After you are injured in an auto accident, and before asking the person on television, consider asking a friend who has been in an auto accident. Moreover, injured victims should consider researching the Internet and visiting different attorney websites, ads, and blogs. After narrowing your search down for an attorney, schedule free consultations and ask questions before you decide on which attorney to hire. The freedom is yours so don’t ask this guy or that lady; ask an attorney, but more importantly ASK YOURSELF.

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The Link of Rome to the Life of America

The Increase in Imperialism and the Demise of the Individual BY DEVIN HEFLIN The republic of Rome

emanated out of a sense of mythology, as well as an ability to set a standard of civility for a world beyond the borders of their perception and lifespan. America in many esteems has built and billed itself as the Rome of yesteryear, but hasn’t evolved from the missteps of the former empire. Charles Dickens once lamented that “it was the best of times, and the worst of times. We had everything before us, and nothing before us.” When Dickens penned those words in the prologue of his classic a Tale of Two Cities, he reminded readers of the results of a divided society, the omens of a revolution, and the dangers of an extremist counterrevolution.

It should be no secret that America has borrowed heavily from the templates and platitudes of Roman judiciary practices. When a societies codes are lifted, its mythologies follow. Ancient Rome’s founder, according to legend, was Romulus, the brother of Remus, who’d defeated his brother and claimed dominion over multiple city-states. Historical canonization instructs that the earliest known ruler of the organized Grecian emulative republic was Tarquin the proud, who became a victim of the seeds of his own revolution. As it stands, there are myriads of revolutions spawning in the nation. Possibly the more progressive of these national upris-

ings is the entreprenurial revolution. According to a Dec. 2010 report issued by the National Small Business Association, there was a significant increase in the number of small businesses reporting an increase in revenue. The business owners that were surveyed stated that they witnessed a 39 percent increase in Dec. of last year, as compared to five months prior, which listed their revenue at 26 percent. However, most revolutions aren’t as focused. Government protesters can’t fully define themselves as revolutionaries when they’ve fought to place in power the same government agents that mounted the debt they’re protesting. In paraphrasing Einstein who famously said, “ a problem can’t be solved by the same mentality that created it,” it should be recognized that Tea Party chieftains can’t stand behind an illusion of principles. The fundamental problem with politics is twofold. One, there’s a propensity of mix-

ing social issues into the fold of elected representatives that don’t represent us, and two, there are far too many frequencies of power placed into mere placeholders. When a nation embraces imperialism, it provides a farce of freedoms that were once valid, and punishes any that question the legitimacy of the faceless farce. Social issues are to be left to social institutions. Elected officials shouldn’t share opportunities to conspire on capitol hill about a man’s right to marry another man, or a religious institutions’ right to construct a worship center where they please. The final revolution is comprised of citizens that have awakened to the realization that a nation’s imperialism morphs its societal construct into a big bad wolf. It’s imperative that American’s realize that wars, debt, the promotion of monolithic belief systems and the drastic reduction in moral efficiency is an institutions’ way of emulating the sharp toothed antagonist from infantile fables. There’s much hot air blown, but no effectual change enacted. In Romes culmination, a mantra circulated amongst the ruling classes,” bread and circuses”, which intimated that if rulers kept citizens fat and fed, they’d question nothing. The circus continues today, via the excess of those in bondage than those that rule. Shackles and whips have been replaced by slogans and wars.

SOURCES/REFERENCES Gibbon, Edward. “The History of the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire.” Cosimo, Inc. 2008; Grolier Incorporated. “Rome: A History.” The New Book of Knowledge. 1993; National Small Business Association. “ 2010 Economic Report.” www.nsba.biz/docs/2010_ye_economic_report.pdf 66 RYSE MAGAZINE | J U LY/ A U G U S T 2011

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P O L ITIC A L P O W E R

P O WE R M O V E S

Kevin Clark, MBA, CRPC New Position: President/CEO Organization: Statusgrow Strategies & Solutions, LLC Statusgrow Strategies & Solutions, LLC is a complete business development and strategy consulting resource that help clients with their business planning, implementation, and management needs, thus assisting them in maintaining a competitive advantage in the marketplace. Responsibilities: Oversees the daily operations and growth of the company, which caters to start ups, mid to large-size firms, non-profits, government agencies, and educational institutions seeking assistance on developing a seamless and strategic business plan and approach that will significantly impact the success of their company, agency, or institution. Former Position: Vice Presidentâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Financial Consultant, Charles Schwab

Michelle D. Scott New Position: Manager, Corporate Compliance Organization: SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment Responsibilities: Leads a team of 10 managers in completion of SOX compliance projects. Develop and establish global policies for corporate and park operations. Review and develop procedures to address internal and external audit recommendations. Coordinate efforts for periodic reviews of internal controls in key areas such as finance, IT, operations, sales/marketing, and in-park functions. Former Position: Director of Research and Development, Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) Involvement: Habitat for Humanity of Greater Orlando Board Member Central Florida Urban League Young Professionals Executive Board Member

Are you making power moves in your community? RYSE Magazine wants to hear about it. Email us at powermoves@rysemag.com

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B US IN E S S S E N S E

THE Entrepreneur al

Mind, Gift OR

Curse?

ave a brief talk with any aspir-

ing entrepreneur and you will quickly find that he or she is wired a little different than most. Their creativeness, innovativeness, and willingness to take risk is the cause of their ability to blaze paths in developing new and wonderful things that truly make our lives easier and more enjoyable. They often begin with an epiphanyâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; an inspirational idea they feel will radically change the way we live our lives. From that point, they tread down the path, often times alone, working hard to develop this new idea they feel is sure to make them the next million-

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aire. As they work on their new, brilliant idea and it begins to take shape, aspiring trail blazers begin to become susceptible to an array of challenges that stifle their productivity in bringing their idea into fruition. As we continue, letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first examine the different type of characteristics many entrepreneurs possess when they set out to chase their entrepreneurial dream. First, there are the aspiring entrepreneurs with great ideas and no implementation. These self-proclaimed entrepreneurs are great at dreaming up viable ideas, but lack the awareness, the confidence, or simply the willpower to take action on them. They are simply all talk. Then there are the entrepreneurs with many great ideas and some implementations. These entrepreneurs have good ideas and have the willpower needed to begin executing them. The problem is that once they come to a road block, they quit. Often times even after investing months into launching their project. They simply chalk the project up as being a failure and begin diligently working on the next idea, starting the cycle all over again. Lastly, there are the entrepreneurs with great ideas, lots of implementations, but simply no direction. These entrepreneurs have good ideas and have the willpower needed to begin executing them. They are able to overcome obstacles and bring their product or service to market. As they begin to

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BY J. Jackson Sr.

grow and gain traction, they begin getting distracted by new ideas and opportunities. At which point, they begin simultaneously working on multiple projects, with the hopes that they will eventually get rich from at least one of them. A previous client once told me, “I have multiple projects so that I can make multiple millions.” Unfortunately, each of the projects failed. Many aspiring entrepreneurs that I meet often share one of these very common traits. Often times they have multiple ideas turning around in their head and they want to pursue them all. You see, entrepreneurs are constantly faced with opportunities, as a result of the way they view life. They see problems and want to create solutions to those problems. While this is truly a gift, it can also be a curse. Once they see an opportunity, they immediately want to capitalize on it, despite what other ventures they may be in the middle of. The problem is that if you are chasing multiple opportunities, you can find yourself being spread too thin. You are putting energy into each venture, but because your energy is spread so thin, it is not enough energy to successfully launch any of your ventures. In essence, there is a lot of movement taking place, but no progress. In order to truly experience success with your business venture, you must pick a specific vision, and focus all of your energy on that specific goal. How do you determine which goal to pursue? Here are a few tips to help you avoid spreading yourself too thin.

In order to truly experience success with your business venture, you must pick a specific vision, and focus all of your energy on that specific goal.

1. Find Your Passion. What are you passionate about?

Follow your heart. Getting started and launching your business is a daunting task. It will take hard work, dedication and commitment. There are going to be a number of times when you are going to doubt your decision to pursue entrepreneurship, but if you have stayed true to your passion, even through the most difficult times, you will relentlessly press on. If you are passionately connected to your goal, then it will not be easy for you to let it go. 2. Set Specific Goals. Distinguish which goals are shortterm and long-term goals. Working on your short-term

goals first will give you a sense of accomplishment after completing them enabling you to have the tenacity to accomplish the longterm goals. 3. Find A Partner. With life

and work stress, time management issues, financial struggles and all the difficulties of entrepreneurship, it is easy to avoid, neglect or pass over necessary goals. Finding a trusted friend to act as your Accountability Partner may provide you with the support you need to keep you on track toward your goal. Holding regular meetings with your Accountability Partner who will challenge, motivate, mentor, encourage, and inspire you can help you to achieve maximum results. 4. Stay Focused. Once you

determine what that goal is, focus all of your entrepreneurial efforts and energies on the successful attainment of it, exhausting every possible avenue to bring it to fruition. After you have obtained success in one arena, that success will allow you to eventually venture into new opportunities. If you look at successful business moguls such as Magic Johnson, Donald Trump, Jay Z, Russell Simmons, and Oprah Winfrey, you will notice that before they branched off into multiple ventures, they first mas-

tered a specific craft. These are hard lessons to follow. It is something that I struggled with myself early in my career. It is hard for creative people to suppress their imagination and put their vision on the backburner. But the chances of you experiencing success are much greater if you focus on one endeavor at a time. With that success you will begin to build a support team which can help you launch your new ventures. I’m not telling you to give up on your other visions. Freeze them in time. Write out the details and put a pin in it. Focus on opportunities that support the forward progress of the goal you are pursuing NOW! J ULY / AUG UST 2 0 1 1 | WWW. RY SEM AG AZ I N E .C OM 6 9

B US IN E S S S E N S E

Stubborn in Stilettos

O By O. Ross

OK, ladies: Are you ready for a dose of the truth?

Let’s face it, being stubborn has a negative connotation. Stubborn people can be insistent, dogmatic, pigheaded, and simply put — resistant to change. Who wants to work in that environment? Have you ever worked with those downright indignant people that make you second-guess your own choices? Well, don’t be turned off too quickly. In my experience, I have found that there are some good inferences about being stubborn that women should adopt. Male and female leaders can learn a lot from each other. Some psychological studies indicate women nurture their teams and men control their teams. Honestly, depending on the situation and needs, both can be effective approaches. Consider the other side of stubbornness that can lend a great deal to business. Stubborn people are also determined, persistent, tenacious, and steadfast. Those are qualities that push teams forward! With all the progress women have made, don’t you wonder why only two percent of Fortune 500 CEOs are women? One reason is the slow rate of change—mostly due to psychosomatic reasons. Other reasons include subconscious grooming. Whether you feel it’s an intuitive or learned behavior, women are taught to possess unwavering support and stay in the

shadows. Although our culture has drastically changed through the years, we need to make a concerted effort to continue the evolution itself and the psychological evolution of those it affects. Personally the behavioral differences of men and women are something I enjoy. When you have a slanted discussion of like-minded participants, they think that is progress. The best boost of energy is when countering insight is brought to the forefront of that discussion and forces you to think beyond your initial direction. That is the crux of diversity and inclusion. Diversity and inclusion cannot be just current business buzz words. They have to be embraced as a driving element of business.

In business it’s not just about the game; it’s also about the Pre-Game Show and the Post-Game Wrap Up. Self assessment is a great business trait. Discover your deficiencies and play the same game! O. Ross, known as The Small Biz EngineTM is a successful businesswoman, entrepreneur, radio host, and professional speaker. As the Visionary Founder and Director of O. Ross Enterprises, she built her consultancy on the premise of unique branding concepts and profit-driven business strategies. Signature services include Conceptual Consulting, Strategic Business Development, Business & Marketing Plans, and Professional Writing requests. O. Ross helps present day and aspiring entrepreneurs realize their ideas have value and how to make it happen! For more information visit www.thesmallbizengine.com 70 RYSE MAGAZINE | J U LY/ A U G U S T 2011

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O. Ross Outbox Tip

Would like to extend a special Thank You to the following advertisers and contributors who made this premier issue possible. As they have supported us, we ask that you support them in their businesses. 106 Foto (www.106foto.com)........................................................................ Page 37 Afrotainment (www.afrotainment.tv)............................................................... Inside Front Cover/Page 1 Balanced Budget Consultants (www.balancedbudgetconsultants.com)......... Page 39 Cedrick Kimes â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Allstate (www.Allstate.com)................................................. Page 23 Central Florida Orthodontic Specialist (www.orlando4braces.com)................ Inside Back Cover Crawford Design (www.cdporlando.com) ...................................................... Page 29 Daniel for Men (www.Danielformen.net)......................................................... Page 19 Fulmore Chiropractic (www.fulmorechiropratic.com)...................................... Page 31 Gods Little Lambs Learning Center (www.godslittlelambs.com)..................... Page 43 Juve Salon & Spa (www.juvesalon.com)........................................................ Page 11 Ms. Corporate America Pageant (www.Mscorporateamerica.com) ............... Page 13 NH Measures (www.nhmeasures.com) ......................................................... Page 57 O. Ross Enterprises, Inc. (www.orossenterprises.com).................................. Page 43 Pammyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Cool Stuff (www.pammyscoolstuff.com)......................................... Page 45 R Black & Associates (www.rblackandassoc.com)......................................... Page 29 Sheraton Nassau Beach Resort (www.sheratonnassau.com)......................... Back Cover StudioJones Graphic Design (www.studiojonesdesign.com) ......................... Page 49 Suit City (www.Suitcityoforlando.com)........................................................... Page 15 The Experience Christian Center (www.theexperiencecc.com)....................... Page 47 The G-wrap Company (www.ghairwrap.com)................................................ Page 57 Young & DeLoach Attorneys at Law (youngdeloachlaw.com)......................... Page 65

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IT TA KE S A V I L L A G E

BY Dr. Tricia Y. Travis

It was Whitney Houston who sung Implement an Educational Neighborhood Website can prepare their children for success by working the lyrics, “I believe the children are our Parents with others to implement an educational neighborhood future. Teach them well and let them lead website. The website will provide children and their parthe way.” As parents, our involvement in ents’ access to online educational resources to help children excel at school, at home and in their community. Parents teaching them well is one of the greatest can work together with their community leaders to ensure assets in the lives of children. Parents have that the website is funded and created to enhance their the first opportunity to ensure that children neighborhood. Parents should build a community partnership with school officials to gather highly recommended receive the love and support they need to educational resource links for the website. The education section on the neighborhood’s website should have tutoring become productive citizens. a list of local schools from pre-k to universiHere are 5 strategies that you can imple- information, ties, links of community events, bully prevention programs, ment to prepare your children for success learning games and any other information pertinent to the development of children. in the future.

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Strategies for Preparing Children for Success

Children recognitions should happen throughout the year because it builds children’s self-esteem. Encourage Children to Get Involved in Extra-Curricular Activities

Parents should provide opportunities for their children to get involved in extra-curricular activities. When children get involved in after school programs they have the opportunity to enhance their social, team building, academic and character building skills. These are essential skills that children will need to be successful in life. Encouraging children to run for student government, captain of a sports team, and/or seek a position on a school or community committee that develops leadership skills. All of these experiences are beneficial and can be referenced when it is time for children to complete future scholarship, college and employment applications.

Join Professional Parent Networks

Parents who join professional parent networks increase their educational awareness about what their children should be learning in school and at home. Parents will also be able to strengthen their parenting skills, get quicker access to resources to help their children and meet other parents who are committed to helping their children succeed as well. Parents should join at least one School Advisory Committee, Parent Teacher Association, Parent Teacher Organization, Parent Leadership Committee or any other professional parent network that is going to be a strong advocate for children.

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Create a Study Room for Children

Save Children’s Accomplishments in a Portfolio

Parents can start building an accomplishment portfolio of their children’s success from birth to adulthood. Save all of the children’s certificates, awards, recognitions and incredible school work by putting the evidence into their accomplishment portfolio. For children who draw pictures creatively, place their art work inside of their accomplishment portfolio as well. When children tell their parents that they were selected to lead a project at school, the parents should place those comments in their accomplishment portfolio. Children recognitions should happen throughout the year because it builds children’s selfesteem. If others aren’t commending children, then parents can write down comments about something positive that their children did at home or in public. Place those written comments in the children’s accomplishment portfolio. Save all of the children’s successes because it can place them at an advantage when they are applying for scholarships and completing applications for school activities, college or employment. These five great parenting strategies that will help prepare students for success. Feel free to share this educational article with other individuals who would like to continue making a difference in the lives of children.

Here are a few things parents can do to create a study room for their children at home. Select a quiet area in their home to make the study room. Purchase a computer with software that will help strengthen children in reading, writing, math and computer skills. Make sure the children have access to the internet. Bookmark on their children’s computer educational links that will be able to provide children with the information they need to complete school projects and to receive online tutoring services. Be sure to include a reading lamp on their desk. Place a jar of vocabulary words on the children’s study desk at home. Require that children learn a vocabulary word and its definition at least once a week. Always leave a note of encouragement on the children’s study desk and wish them much success in everything they do. J ULY / AUG UST 2 0 1 1 | WWW. RY SEM AG AZ I N E .C OM 7 3

IT TA KE S A V I L L A G E

Central Florida Youth T h at A r e M a k i ng A D i f f e r e nc e In O u r C o m m u n i ty

Jeremiahya Deâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ontae Anderson is a Sophomore Tiger at Jones High School. He is currently the Class President of the Class of 2014, a trombone player in the marching/concert band, president of the schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s debate team and a member of the cross country track team. Jeremiahya is very serious about serving and giving back. He is currently the Youth Worship Leader at Divine Orders International Ministries and mentors many of the other youth on being saved as a young man. Jeremiahya also volunteers at the Orange Regional Juvenile Detention Center. His dream is to attend Harvard Law School to become a child advocate lawyer. Jeremiahya has become very skilled at playing his trombone over the last five yrs and has all four of his solo ensemble medals to prove it. Jeremiahya is caring, concerned, and motivated to help change the world. His intelligence speaks for itself. RYSE Magazine presents to you the future attorney Jermiahya D. Anderson, Esq.

Are you a youth thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s on the RYSE? Visit RYSEMagazine.com and let us know why you are a next generation leader.

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photo courtesy of atira anderson

Mercedes Lashawn Richards is a junior at Jones High School. She maintains a weighed 4.38 GPA while taking rigorous Advanced Placement courses. Mercedes is an accomplished violinist and is a first chair strings player and concert master. Mercedes made history during her freshman year at Jones High School by being the first strings player at Jones to compete at Solo Ensemble and receive a superior rating in all categories. Mercedes is currently a Medical Magnet Student in her quest to become an obstetrician/ gynecologist. She continues to serve her community on a weekly basis and has accumulated over 200 hours of volunteer time at our local Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies. With constant encouragement from both of her parents, Mercedes believes that there are no obstacles too great to overcome! RYSE Magazine presents to you the future Dr. Mercedes L. Richards, MD.

In Our Next Issue…

Next issue will be the start of our list of Orlando best, beginning with Orlando’s Top 25 Young Attorney’s and Firms. You don’t want to miss who makes the list. Join our fanpage at www.facebook. com/rysemag to submit your choice and vote for the winners.

Next issue, we will be launching our Who’s Hiring section. Top Company’s looking for Top Talent.

Visit www.RYSEMagazine.com to register as a VIP YBE for FREE and receive your copy of RYSE Magazine first. 76 RYSE MAGAZINE | J U LY/ A U G U S T 2011