d-mars.com Business Journal 29

april 15 - may 15 2009

(left to right) Ladys Who Lunch MR. D-MARS, Dee Harris, Pat Melendez & Darryl Samuels

Mena & Justin Frazier Rapid Stock Profits

29

Inspire, Inform & Educate

Graham Painter, Denise Carpenter, Congressman Al Green & Judson Robertson

Edition

Lawrence Marshall HISD Board President

Acie P., Jr., Kandyce F., MR. D-MARS & Willie B. New HISD

Katrina & Kevin Calvin The Project Manager Group

Tracy Taylor Smith Taylor Smith Consulting

See Page 11 Michael Holthouse & Keith J. Davis Jr. Lemonade Day

Houston Women who Support The Ensemble Theatre

Anthony Norris EBusiness Lending, LLC

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Publisher’s Message

Keith J. Davis, Sr. SR. PUBLISHER Keith J. Davis, Sr. JR. PUBLISHER Keith J. Davis, Jr. VICE PRESIDENT Kevin Davis EDITING CONSULTANT ReShonda Tate-Billingsley OPERATIONS COORDINATOR Jennifer Cobb ACCOUNTING MANAGER Eugenie Doualla PHOTOGRAPHY Leon Galbreath MARKETING CONSULTANTS Lenore Benoit Christopher Keaton Johnny Ray Davis, Jr.

I never have been a person who felt like you needed to wait for the right time, the right place, the right opportunity to make things happen. I’ve always been of the mindset that the right opportunity is now. Thinking of opening a business?

Now is the time. Thinking of going back to school? Why wait? Thinking of trying something new? Do it. The opportunity to make your dreams come true, is now.

Every minute you spend waiting, letting excuses stifle your accomplishments – and by excuses I mean everything from, “I don’t have the money” to “I don’t have the time” – every minute you spend not seizing the opportunity, is a wasted opportunity. Granted, particularly in this flailing economy, I understand all too well, the challenges of a lack of money. But if you don’t have the money, do you at least have a plan to get the money? If you don’t have a sound, realistic plan in place to accomplish your dreams how do you ever expect those dreams to come to fruition?

That’s what this issue is all about - helping you to realize that there is no need to wait. It is my hope that by the time you have perused the pages, analyzed the articles and digested each document, you will recognize that the opportunity is now.

This issue, as always, is stockpiled with information that will help you whether you’re considering starting a business or just looking for ways to thrive. There are also articles to help you if your business is struggling in the quest for success, or if you think you’ve reached your pinnacle. You can always expand and grow and the time to do that is now! What are you waiting for? Go out and seize the opportunity!

CONTENTS

MULTIMEDIA DIRECTOR Andrea Hennekes

Seize the Opportunity………………………………………………….........4

LAYOUT & GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Ghuzzala Malik (Faith) Myron Davis

Lemonade Day……………………………………………..........................11

DISTRIBUTION Booker T. Davis, Jr. Rockie Hayden

The Ivy Education and Charitable Foundation of Houston, Inc…......…17

A New HISD is on the Horizon………………………………………......…5

100 Black Men of America Houston Chapter…………..........................13 Changing an Obstacle into an Opportunity…………………..….............14

Rapid Stock Profits……………………………………………………........23 3 Things You Can Get Back……………………………………….......…..25

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Christina Robinson Grochett Dr. D.L. Jones Gee Powell Carla Lane Justin Frazier Dr. Jonita W. Reynolds Tasha Bowen Charlotte Jackson Bridgett Holden Billie Jo Johnson Leola Anifowoshe Kevin Calvin Ron Reynolds, Esq.

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Tribute to Dr. Leslie Bowie Wells Brooks……………………….......…….27 The Money Man……………………………………………………......……30 The Project Manager Group………………………………………….....…36 Get Involved, Give Back NOW………………………………………….....37

MR. D-MARS Tip of the Month Weak men wait for opportunities; strong men make them.

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D-MARS Business Journal 7322 Southwest Fwy, Suite 806 Houston, Texas 77074 713-272-9511 . Phone 713-272-6364 . Fax 1-800-453-8752 . Toll Free www.d-mars.com 3.

ers to go where they might not think possible.

“Many times we see these big projects the city has contracted out and we think there’s no way we can get on board. That’s a mindset I’m hoping to change. I’m all about pushing the small business owner toward those big contracts,” he said.

One such person he’s pushing is be competitive, but to win contracts,” Dee Harris, owner of DH RediMix & explains Executive Director Darryl Concrete, a leading supplier of readySamuels. “Through reflection, we have mixed concrete in Houston. With found that the competitiveness in our multiple plant locations around the contractors – in the way in which they city and several delivery trucks, Harris live and work- is carried over to their is succeeding in a predominantly male projects.”

field. Her company has been in exis-

NAMC works to encourage on- tence for three years, although she has time completion and within budget, over 20 years in the business. excellent performance, repeat clients, and concentrates on building capacity in terms of giving back to the community.

Samuels says it’s a mission he’s committed to.

“I’m committed because I see the You’ve heard all the negativity to arm yourself with the necessary opportunities and the potential that about the economy, but when it comes information to seize the contract op- our members can have in the conto garnering contracts with the city, portunities that might be available there’s no better time than now to get to you, try specialty organizations on board. President Barack Obama like the Greater Houston Chapter of has made it clear that the country has the National Association of Minority plenty of stimulus money to stimulate Contractors (NAMC). That orgasmall businesses. Why not get your nization works to provide education

Harris decided to get certified as a

piece of the pie?

and training to minority contractors “I’ve always been about the busi- in construction; promote the econess of promoting businesses,” says nomic and legal interest of minority

minority business with HUD, Metro and the City of Houston.

“I wanted to expand in the field,

Keith “Mr. D-MARS” Davis, the

struction communi- instead of just being a delivery serty,” he added. “It’s vice. I wanted to be a subcontractor

CEO of the D-MARS.com. “Part of that is helping entrepreneurs realize

very

that and broaden the field. I also wanted they get involved to do more city and government con-

there is money out there to be had, money that can be used to jump start

urgent

right now because tracts. For so long, I’d heard the same we are lacking Af- people get the same job and I’ve since rican Americans in learned that the jobs are out there for

or stimulate your business.”

The opportunity is now to get involved in infrastructure, get certified

the construction in- new businesses as well,” Harris said. dustry and that skill Harris is hoping by branching out

and make your platform available to hard-working contractors.

is not being passed she can change people’s mindset about on from generation women in her field.

If you’re wondering where to go

contracting firms; build to generation. We’re going to lose it.

“I go by D. Harris because people bridges between minority In about five or ten years, it’s very don’t know if I’m male or female,” she contractors and the enti- unlikely that we will have an African- said. “They just assume I’m male beties that they work; and American presence in construction in cause of the industry. So I get the opadvocate law and govern- Houston because we don’t have the portunity to play behind the scene. It ment actions for minority level of commitment.” As a certi- shouldn’t be like that, though. I just contractors. fied Minority, Women and Business want the same opportunities.”

“At NAMC, we train Enterprise (MWBE), Mr. D-Mars is contractors not only to constantly encouraging business ownApril 15 - May 15 2009

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By Bridgett Holden, Contributing Writer

Lawrence Marshall HISD Board President Former HISD educator and District IX President Lawrence Marshall, was elected to the Board of Education in 1997. To this day his colleagues hold him in high esteem as a chosen leader for HISD. A native Houstonian, Marshall received his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Texas Southern University and pursued advanced studied at the University of Houston and Texas A&M University.

He joined HISD as a teacher in 1995 and subsequently served as a principal, area superintendent, assistant superintendent, associate superintendent, and deputy superintendent before retiring in 1991. As the 2009 District IX President, Marshall has a great team in place to head up the new bond referendum In August of 2007, the Houston Independent School District Board of Education voted to place an $805-million bond referendum on the November general-election ballot. By the end of the November 2007 election, a bond program for one-billion fortyfive million dollars was passed to fund facility improvements throughout the district.

Some people challenged the referendum because it passed by such a narrow margin, so there was some litigation, which caused the process to be put on hold for six months. After getting the green light, it took nine to 12 months for the design work to be done and behind the scenes planning to be finalized.

“With proper planning, you can prevent a lot of the pain in terms of making sure that you have the best product and the right people on board,” stated Willie T. Burroughs, April 15 - May 15 2009

General Manager Construction Services of Rebuild HISD. “In this whole process, it’s not only about getting people to participate, but to get people that have the capacity to be successful on a smaller scale and graduate from one level to the next.”

After overcoming obstacles and getting everything in proper order, HISD is ready to move forward with implementing the bond program projects and opening up bids to new companies. To facilitate getting the word out about this new bond referendum and promote fairness for bids throughout the community, The D-Mars Business Journal sat down with the leadership heading up this project, Management Consultant Acie Phillips, Jr. of A. O. Phillips & Associates LLC. for the HISD bond project, Willie T. Burroughs General Manager-Construction Services of Rebuild HISD and Kandyce Fernandez, MPA Manager of Supply Diversity Business Operations in HISD. “We need to find new people to get involved with this project, create some

else experienced a long time ago.”

Aside from getting the right people involved to do the work, the leadership for this project contends that HISD faces the challenge of being a public sector. Trying to work through bonding, finance, establishing relationships with banks, and credit unions so that once these companies start working with HISD, they can have some working capital.

Despite these challenges, the administration contends that they are making some headway with some joint ventures on the horizon “All successful organizations’ success rises and falls on great leadership and the commitment of that leadership,” stated Willie Burroughs. “This administration certainly has a commitment to Minority & Women Enterprise (MWBE) participation and creating opportunities.”

Recently the board approved hiring a general manager for business assistants. That individual’s responsibility will be to work along with A. O. Phillips & Associates as well as develop a

left to right Kandyce Fernandez, MPA, Acie Phillips, Jr., MR. D-MARS & Willie T. Burroughs success with those people and let the community know it can work” stated Acie Phillips, Jr. “I know there are a lot of African Americans out there that are building in other areas throughout Houston that may not look at HISD, Metro and other places. They may have heard there is unfairness with pay, bids etc. This is unfortunate because they are probably going by what someone www.

department that focuses on MWBE participation. This will be the first program that will have a two-joint venture partnership with an African-American Construction company who will build possibly two schools here in HISD. The first school will be Almeda Elementary School slated to be completed in the summer of 2010.

“There are a lot of opportunities ®

with the bond program and in construction,” stated Kandyce Fernandez.

“One of the things I really try to do is engage in educational opportunities for our community because businesses do not have an understanding of how HISD operates.”

HISD holds a class on the first Monday of every month to inform the business community on “How to do business with HISD.” Classes begin at 8:30am in the administration building. Every other month during that meting, there is a bond program update. The next meeting is May 4th.

“The meetings really go through what is the request for proposal, what is the evaluation criteria, what can you expect from that evaluation criteria in terms of really submitting a proposal that captures all the information and what we’re going to be looking at,” stated Fernandez.

The overall goal of D-Mars.com is always to inspire, inform and educate the community. Our overall interest in reporting this story is to get information out to the community about fairness, and opportunity with HISD. “I have been impressed with the way HISD has changed in the way they reach out to the community,” stated publisher, Keith “Mr. D-Mars” Davis.

Being on the Board of National Association of Contractors, Mr. D-Mars has a first hand outlook on how HISD has conducted business. After recently attending a small contractor’s meeting concerning HISD, Mr. D-Mars noticed some significant changes.

“It’s not very often I have gone to a small contractor’s meeting where HISD has been involved and seen some of the head people there. In the past, if a lot of people were not in attendance, they would not bother show up,” stated Mr. D-Mars. “I was very impressed that day to see how HISD is really making an effort to do business with small business owners.”

The HISD Board is committed to making sure they find suppliers in the Houston area to award contracts from the bond referendum. With the “Changing of the Guard” a younger generation has stepped up to ensure the success of the HISD Bond Referendum and all parties involved. By having business consultants, educational pieces and open communication in place, HISD is definitely on a New Horizon for success!

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A Perfect Combination Leaving An Entreprenuerial Legacy

By Bridgett Holden Contributing Writer turning a profit, including selling wrong how we could have done things bubble gum, which dubbed him the differently, etc. What I found was my name “The Bubble Gum Man.” After daughter and I both learned a great being under his father’s wing for 18 lesson.” years, Keith Jr. is stepping out on his From that lesson Holthouse came own. With his first published book up with the concept of Lemonade Day Young, So What! 10 Steps to Become throughout the city of Houston. This a Successful Young Entrepreneur, K. city-wide event introduces kids to enJer’Rod is on the fast track to entre- trepreneurship and teaches them the preneurial success himself. He is the skills they need to be successful in the epitome of entrepreneurship, putting future. Youth learn to set goals, develto use all of many talents from acting, op a business plan, establish a budget, modeling, and now on the speaking seek investors, provide customer serMayoral Proclamation for Lemonade Day circuit. Keith Jr. has a goal of sharing vice, and give back to the community. his triumphs and trials with his peers.

Through an email and a chance In these tough economic times, it pared 4 Life Foundation.

“My main goal as my father has in- meeting, Mr. “D-Mars” and Holseems long gone are the days when Although they stem from two difstilled in me is to inspire, inform and thouse came together and realized parents encourage their kids to go to ferent backgrounds, a common goal is educate other youth,” expresses Keith they have a common goal, to teach college, get a degree, find a good job, what brought the two legacies togethJr. “I want young people to see and young people how to become successstart a family, just to began the process er to form a partnership. The D-Mars know that age is just a number, but ful entrepreneurs. As the meeting of all over again. That is the American motto is to “Inspire, Inform and Eduwith heart, the right attitude and sur- the minds progressed it was evident Dream of old… Today, more parents cate,” a legacy that Keith Davis Sr. has rounding yourself with the right peo- that Keith Jr., already on the fast track are beginning to realize that entrepre- passed on to his son Keith Davis Jr. ple, anything is possible. neurship is a key factor for the suc- He has done this by being an example On the other end of cess of their child’s future and of this for his son to follow, going from a garthe spectrum is Michael country. Although formal education bage man to owning one of the largest Holthouse, a community still has a role, it’s not the main ingre- African-American Marketing/Publishleader, philanthropist, endient for this generation. ing companies in Houston. Mr. “Dtrepreneur and founder of Research shows that young entre- Mars,” as he is known in the commuthe Holthouse Foundapreneurs have come a long way from nity has proved entrepreneurship is a tion for Kids, along with running lemonade stands and deliver- tough road but worth it. his wife, Lisa. The couple ing newspapers. Today, those as young “I’ve always tried to lead by examalso founded Prepared as 13 are starting and running full- ple, instead of telling Keith Jr. how 4 Life (P4L), a not-for- MR. D-MARS, Keith J. Davis Jr. & Michael Holthouse fledged service and manufacturing to do something, I would show him,” profit organization that businesses. said “Mr. D-Mars.” “Sometimes it was is developing innovative after-school of being a successful entrepreneur While there are no reliable figures tough and I’d make mistakes, but he programs for middle-school youth in would be a great choice to implement on the number of preteen and teenage had a firsthand look of what not to Houston. This organization began a in the future goals of P4L speaking to entrepreneurs in the United States, do, but more importantly, how to cordifferent path three years ago, intro- kids they are trying to reach.

TeenVestor.com says all evidence in- rect it. To me there is no better way ducing an entirely new concept to the “Our goal is two fold,” explains dicates that an increasing number of to learn.”

P4L vision.

Holthouse. “To expose hundreds of young people are showing great interSince the age of 10, Keith Jr. has “About three years ago, my daugh- thousands on how to start and run est in starting and running their own mimicked his father by starting a ter Alyssa, who was 10 years old at the your own business. This city wide businesses. number of business ventures and time wanted to make a event is the one day the entire city foIn order to run a businesses successlemonade stand,” recalls cuses and supports our kids. The other fully, parents must equip their future Holthouse. “We went goal is by creating a day and a deadline entrepreneurs with a solid foundathrough the process of at a time that within five years Lemontion of what it takes to go all the way. building a stand and buy- ade Day is in 100 cities with a million Two parents, who recognize this new ing supplies to sell lem- stands!”

American Dream of owning your own onade. It was not that In hind sight, it does not matter business and inspiring entrepreneursuccessful, but at the end what a person’s background is or how ship not only in their children but of the day we had had a much education one has. When there other people’s children as well, are Mr. Chief Tablet and crayons is a meeting of the minds, the sky’s the Keith “D-Mars” Davis Sr. of D-Mars. talking about the day’s limit. com and Michael Holthouse of PreMichael Holthouse & Keith J. Davis Jr. events and what went April 15 - May 15 2009

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Abundant Products taking world by storm ment of 12 feet by 12 feet house (144

The Fresh Solution II Paneled Por-

sq feet assembled) with customizable table Collapsible Housing Unit Is a selection of doors, windows and ex- portable, easily transportable 12’ x terior covering (“skin”) atop a heavy 12’ self-contained temporary housreinforced plastic floor.

The home ing solution that requires no tools and

occupies a compact foot print when about 30 minutes to assemble or disdisassembled of 4 feet by 10 feet with assemble. a height of five feet (200 cubic feet)

The mission of our company is “to

making transportation and shipment help alleviate inhumane conditions of multiple units by truck very afford- that exist domestically in the United able. The unit will be using solar pan- States of America and internationels that are a very practical way to pro- ally throughout the world as a result duce electricity for many applications. of natural disasters, homelessness and Interconnecting the Portable shower refugee conditions” and we believe we and Portable Housing Unit is easy and have products that accomplish that the source of a third product offering objective.

– a combination unit of shower and modular home.

For more information please contact Ronald Turner at 281-201-7563.

(Left to Right)

Fred Davis, Ronald Turner & Papa D-MARS (Booker T. Davis, Jr.)

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t’s being called a revolution- cludes shower), which specifications ary product and it’s been in include among others, the ability to the works for years. Now produce different sizes of the home

Abundant Products is ready for customized needs, while protectto reveal itself to the world. ing homeless families from many of Abundant Products, Inc. is a com- the harsh elements of the streets and

pany that specializes in designing, de- weather conditions. The portability veloping and marketing a broad class of the product makes the homes flexof revolutionary portable user-friend- ible enough for the city to create desly, high- quality, comfort enhancing ignated sites for shelter and other city hygienic products. API strives to meet services. customer needs in the markets that are The Fresh Solution II Paneled Poranticipated over the next three years: table Collapsible Housing Unit was Disaster Relief, Developing Coun- designed as the ultimate portable tries, NASCAR, Military and Home- shelter from natural elements. It is

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100 Black Men of America Houston Chapter to Celebrate its Legacy of Leadership During Annual Black-tie Scholarship Gala

dinner melodies by international vocalist Liz Vaughn, and comedian Marcus D. Wiley as master of ceremonies.

For tickets, press passes and sponsorship details, please contact Margo Williams Handy, MWH Public Relations, 281.213.9554 or margo@mwhpub-

The Houston chapter of 100 Black

licrelations.com. Tickets also may be

Men of America (“The 100”) was

purchased via the organization’s Web

formed in 1994 out of a concern and

site at www.100blackmenhou.org.

feeling of responsibility to the Houston community. The dedication to improvement of over 150 members has resulted in some notable accomplishments. The organization has awarded over $75,000 in college scholarships to promising first-year college students, maintains a mentoring program for youth ages 11 to 18 and facilitates an annual toy drive

Tracye McDaniel, Executive Vice President and COO, Greater Houston Partnership – Phenomenal Woman Award

Dr. Adrian Johnson, Superintendent, North Forest ISD – Mentoring Award

which has benefited thousands of area Additional highlights include re-

children throughout the years.

ception entertainment by the Texas

“The 100 Black Men of America –

Southern University Jazz Ensemble,

Metropolitan Houston Chapter has

exposure. Consider volunteering to work on a project outside of your function. Having cross-functional experience is a great way to advance your career and skill set

spent the past 15 years promoting and demonstrating leadership to the young men we serve and the community in which we live,” said Mark A. Williams, chapter president. “We accept the charge

We’re surrounded by opportunities to utilize our skills, experience, and know-how, but it’s also important to prepare for what’s around the corner.

Whether you are seeking employment with a new company, taking a new job with your current employer or may change careers, here are some tips to stay current and marketable.

of making a difference in the lives of young men and our community.”

“The 100” shares in the fundamen-

Dr. Roland B. Smith Jr., Associate Provost and Adjunct Professor, Rice University – Education Award

espoused by the national founders in 1963. There are over 106 chapters with more than 10,000 members in cities around the country.

The 100 will host its annual blacktie scholarship fundraising gala on Saturday, May 9, 2009, at the George R. Brown Convention Center, 1001 Avenida de las Americas Houston, TX Dr. John M. Rudley announced today.

The reception will begin at 6:30 p.m.

David Harris, Founder and CEO, Harris Capital Management – Economic Development Award

followed by a dinner at 7:30 p.m.

The event celebrates the legacy of “The 100’s” leadership in the AfricanAmerican community. Honorary chairpersons Mr. and Mrs. Gerald Smith look

staying abreast of the trends, tools and #5 Be yourself. data in the market, will enable you to Find a company where your permove ahead in your career. sonality and values shine. Challenge # 2 Step out of your Comfort Zone. yourself every day of your career. Look You must constantly learn and push for opportunities. Be prepared.

forward to joining more than 500 guests representing political and community leaders, businesses, and academia from the Greater Houston area to honor this year’s living legends.

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#3 Embrace change. You just might like where it leads you.

Change is more than just a campaign slogan. Always ask questions and do research to anticipate where the company may go, or should go, in order to meet its goals and exceed its strategic objectives. Change is exciting and constant. To stay marketable, you need to be comfortable knowing that # 1 Focus on Doing Great Work. what a company and its competitors Do the very best you can in whatand partners are doing today will be ever you do. The key to preparing for very different several years down the your next job and having opportuniroad. ties “fall” in your lap is focusing on doing an excellent job in the role that # 4 Make networking a priority. you are in. You may not always feel Take a walk down the hall.

We often think of networking as your work is appreciated, but people an activity we participate in outside notice and recognize superior results.

Focus on what can be done, not the office, but relationships are the key what can’t. Too often we get caught to success inside a work environment, up in the way things have always been, too. Focus on reaching out to others, or worse, we say things like “I can’t, collaborating and inviting others into because…” Performing and deliver- your circle. Those who are inclusive ing results in your current role, and and optimistic attract others to them.

tal ideas and philosophy which were

77010, Board of Directors Chairman

Hosted by Marcus D. Wiley

Dr. Lovell Jones, Director, Center for Research on Minority Health in the Department of Health Disparities Research, University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center – Heath and Wellness Award

yourself to broaden your skills and www.

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Changing an Obstacle into an Opportunity: Returning to School for a New Career

By Christina Robinson Grochett, University of Phoenix – Houston Vice President

which areas of the economy are experiencing shortages and which industries are hiring. According to a March 23 article in U.S. News & World Report, several career experts identified healthcare, education and the government sectors as the best bet for finding work in the next couple of years.

Once a new career is chosen, find out details about that job. Meet with professionals to learn about what a typical day is for them, as well as getting their perspective of the position and the industry. This will help determine whether this career is the perfect fit for you.

Listen to Your Heart Much like the rest of the economy, Houston has lost thousands of jobs within the last year. In fact, according to the Texas Workforce Commission, the area lost 6,300 jobs between February 2008 and February 2009 – marking the first time in five years that Houston is losing more jobs than it is creating.

As more jobs are being automated, outsourced or terminated, people are assessing their career choices and turning to education to increase their opportunities or obtain training and certification for new careers. Preparing for a new job can be a simple change such as applying current skills and knowledge into new role at their current company, or a life-changing event that requires a new degree for a completely different career path.

Individuals interested in recareering are flocking to higher education institutions to earn advanced degrees to jump-start their journey to a more fulfilling job. Before making the leap to a new career or enrolling in a bachelor’s or master’s degree program, here are a few tips to help you make a more informed decision.

Research Your Options When you realize you are clinging to a career you no longer want and recognize that your career goals have changed – it is time to start a new career.

Before choosing one, do some research to find out

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ule. For example, University of Phoenix – Houston has four campus locations that offer face-toface instruction in addition to its online programs that range from associate’s through doctoral levels.

Through flexible schedules, challenging courses and interactive learning, students have the convenience of attending weekly classes, compared to other universities that require attendance two and three times per week.

As the State Vice President/ Director of South Texas for University of Phoenix, I’ve seen the economic downturn prompt many working professionals in Houston to earn a college degree so they can change careers. If you are open to learning new things and enjoy the exploration process, changing your career path might be exactly what you need to find a role you are passionate about. In fact, I recareered several years ago.

After years in the business industry, I realized that my professional goals had changed and that I needed a new career. As I researched local opportunities, I discovered a passion for education.

I cultivated this passion and joined University of Phoenix to help working professionals meet their educational goals. During my six-year tenure with the company, I have helped hundreds of thousands of Houston residents advance their education, and I couldn’t be happier. I recareered and found my dream job. Thus, instead of viewing the economic recession as an obstacle, try to see it as an opportunity for a promising and rewarding new career.

Realistically, if the research shows that a certain industry is thriving, this should be a factor in the recareering decision. This, however, should not be the only factor. Identify what you are passionate about and match your personal interests with your career goals. When you are interested or passionate about a career, it makes learning about it more enjoyable because you will naturally be eager to acquire the appropriate skills needed to translate into the workplace.

In fact, according to a 2005 nationwide online survey of more than 6,000 working adults by University of Phoenix, nearly one quarter (23 percent) were dissatisfied with their current careers and considered a career switch. The areas they were most interested in pursuing were “helping careers,” such as education (13 percent), healthcare/medical (9 percent) and non-profit (8 percent). These professionals wanted jobs that gave them a greater sense of Christina Robinson Grochett is the State Vice fulfillment and purpose such as helping others with President/ Director of South Texas for University of their life or giving back to the community.

Phoenix. An accomplished leader and champion of higher learning, she was named one of the Top 10 Explore Education business women by the American Business Women’s After assessing your strengths and desires, re- Association in 2008 and led the Houston campus search possible degree paths, and seek out education to receive the 2008 Alfred P. Sloan Award from the that can strengthen your skills in the chosen field. city of Houston for Workplace Flexibility and InColleges and universities are becoming more ac- novation. cessible by offering numerous class times or online programs that will accommodate your busy sched-

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Tracy Taylor-Smith President & Chief Executive Officer Taylor Smith Consulting, LLC With a background of 20 years of experience in public administration, tolling, transportation, contracting services, and management; Tracy Smith is in the business of improving private and public customer relationships.

Tracy Taylor-Smith is President & Chief Executive Officer of Taylor Smith Consulting, LLC. As the owner of the firm, she directs all operational and contract services for the company. Taylor Smith Consulting is a full service staffing, contracting, and management consulting firm that is committed to helping emerging and established companies gain greater operational efficiencies and increased customer and public satisfaction levels.

The firm also provides services in the areas of training, project management, customer service center operations, process improvement programs, and business development.

Tracy is a 2008 Pinnacle Award Finalist and co-author of Implementing a Violation Enforcement System, an IBTTA publication, which illustrates how transportation agencies can install and operate toll enforcement systems and electronic toll collection systems. She April 15 - May 15 2009

has also been featured in several transportation related articles published by the Associated Press, USA Today and CNN Online News. In addition she also serves as a member of the Board of Directors for the Better Business Bureau of Greater Houston and South Texas, the Texas Business Alliance, and the Renaissance 1960 Improvement Corporation.

A native of Houston, Texas, Tracy is the wife of William “Chilly Bill” Smith and the proud mother of Chadrick, Nicholas, and Taylor. She holds degrees in Computer Science Technology, Business Management, and a certificate in Project Management.

Tracy is an active member of Fallbrook Church, where Michael Pender is the Pastor. She extends her love for service working as a member of the Fallbrook Church Community Awareness Ministry team.

Before forming Taylor Smith Consulting, Tracy played a key role in the development of one of the most successful toll road projects in the United States, the Harris County Toll Road Authority. After working over 18 years for Harris County in various different management positions, Tracy was inspired to step outside of the public employee role, and pursue her calling to become a business owner.

“As a public employee, I was always concerned about the policies and practices in place for the customers. Keep in mind, customers are internal and external. Our internal customers are our co-workers and employees. Our external customers are those who we are paid to provide a service to. What messages are we sending to our customers? Are we managing our customers correctly?

We play a major role in improving the state of our economy. We must make sure that our affairs are in order! Let’s make sure that our companies have sound policies, business plans, ethics rules, quality assurance programs, customer service programs, and employee training programs.”

In addition to striving for excellence, Tracy is also committed to driving economic growth by finding employment for individuals through the full service staffing division within her firm. “I believe that I am my brother’s and sister’s keeper. If an individual has a serious desire to improve their quality of life and find employment, Taylor Smith Consulting will be their advocate.

For every contracting opportunity dewww.

veloped and every open job position filled, no matter what level or the position; families benefit, business benefit, and our country benefits.”

Tracy offers the following business development tips to aspiring entrepreneurs:

Don’t let money be the reason We all enter into the world of entrepreneurs aiming to gain the wealth of Bill Gates and Oprah Winfrey. And, yes I believe we can. But, first we must invest countless hours, sleepless nights, and make huge sacrifices to grow our businesses. The money won’t come right away. The contracts won’t come right away. The telephone won’t always ring. If you have a calling to be an entrepreneur, be prepared to weather the storm. Have a contingency plan, keep networking, and keep seeking opportunities.

Don’t be afraid Develop your plan and step out on faith. Make sure your business plan is solid. Put some real time and work into your business plan. Your business plan is the blueprint for your company.

When you step out to sell your product or service and someone tells you no, or responds in a manner that is not favorable, do not get side tracked. Stay focused and keep your eyes on the prize – your company’s goals and mission!

®

Don’t let an open window of opportunity close.

Develop an elevator speech which clearly defines your business. In 30 seconds, or less, be prepared to concisely articulate your company’s mission, experience and its unique qualities. Be sure to deliver your introduction with confidence. As a business owner, you are your company’s best spokesperson.

View every new introduction as an opportunity to pitch your elevator speech.

Seize the moment and the opportunity!

Don’t forget to give back As you continue to perfect your craft, do not forget to reach out and teach those coming behind you. Let’s face it, we won’t be here forever. Work on your succession plan by training and mentoring others. Whether speaking at schools, working at your church with a youth program, developing a college internship program, or preparing your children for leadership; give back and develop a solid future for your business.

Taylor Smith Consulting, LLC is a certified minority business enterprise (MBE) and women-owned business enterprise (WBE). The firm is also accredited by the Better Business Bureau. For more information, please contact Taylor Smith Consulting at 713-937-3111 or at www.taylorsmithconsulting.com.

15.

April 15 - May 15 2009

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Ivy Educational and Charitable Foundation of Houston, Incorporated th Annual Scholarship Luncheon and Fashion Show With over 1100 notables in attendance, the event brought together some of the hottest fashion trends from Dillard’s 2009 spring and summer collections, paired with models from Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated’s Alpha Kappa Omega Chapter, and distinguished men in the Houston community. Several video montages’ chronicling President Barack Obama’s victo-

2009 IEACF Board of Directors

rious journey, generated thunderous applauses. Scene One, “At Last, A Change

2009 IEACF Honorees As change agents, the 550 members of the Foundation actively work to build a coalition of consciousness through financial, educational, volunteer, and collaborative efforts. They are not only committed, but remain involved in programs and activities that encourage and enable youth and families to maximize the potential that was purposed in their lives. As a result of collaborative efforts and support from sponsors, they have raised over $300,000 dollars for scholars and charitable organizations, such as the American Red Cross, Dress

for Success, NAACP (ACT-SO), Houston Area Uraising Dollars for Scholars, Yes, we did! Has Come” left the ladies mesmerized as 18 male ban League, Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer FounThe Board of Directors for the Ivy Edu- models, dressed like the Secret Service, arrayed the dation, United Negro College Fund, Blue Triangle cational and Charitable Foundation of runway. Absolutely, the hottest scene!

Multi-Service Center, the Houston Independent Houston, Inc., is still receiving rave reviews regardSchool District ~ Hazel Hainsworth Young Library, ing their 28th Annual Scholarship Luncheon and and the Ensemble Theater, to name a few.

Fashion Show. Given the historic events witnessed Now more than ever, we must be response-able as throughout the United States of America, the sigwe rally around our community in general, and the nature fundraising event was themed, “Changing youth, in particular. Considering the vicissitudes Trends in Fashion—Yes, We Can!” Former NASA that could possibly cause turbulence in our lives, esAstronaut, Dr. Mae Jemison, and Sharon M. Owpecially under the weight of a collapsing economy, ens, Vice President of Corporate Community Relamassive foreclosures, rising college tuition costs, distions for CenterPoint Energy, were the Honorary eases that plague the African American community, Co-Chairs for this noteworthy affair. The Grand and widespread unemployment, that are constant Ballroom of the Hilton Americas Hotel was filled obstacles causing us to capsize, it is imperative that with an awe-inspired audience as the Honorary community leaders steer a course that is promising.

In addition to showcasing fashion, the occasion Chairs and Congressman Al Green, offered motiIn the midst of crisis, lies opportunity. The was also an opportunity for the members of the vating remarks. opportunity is NOW to educate, enable, and emUnder the direction of General Co-Chairs, Tracy IEACF to honor notable pillars in the community power. Making an investment in scholars carries and Joyce Warner, the mother-daughter duo, the who personify Gandhi’s words, “We must be the no risk, and offers the possibility of limitless return: Show tantalized the audience’s sense of sight and change we wish to see in the world.” The agents an investment in the youth, the next generation of taste with lavish décor, a delectable menu, gorgeous of change were: The Honorable Gladys Bransford, leaders. Like the unprecedented victory of PresiMunicipal Court Judge; Attorney Elizabeth Campmodels, and trendy fashions. dent Barack Obama, the opportunity to “be the bell, Partner and Chief Diversity Officer at Andrews

R

and Kurth LLP; Gaynell Drexler, Attorney and wife of former Houston Rockets star, Clyde Drexler; The

change we wish to see in the world” is NOW! Yes, we Can! Yes, we Did! Yes, we Must!

Honorable Cynthia Gary, City Council Member for Missouri City; Winell Herron, Group Vice President for Public Affairs and Diversity at H-E-B Grocery; Tracye McDaniel, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer for the Greater Houston Partnership; Sonny Messiah-Jiles, Chief Executive Officer and Publisher for the Houston Defender; Candace Thomas, Director for the Miss Black Texas USA and Miss Black Teen Texas USA pageants; and Jonte´ Wesley, co-owner of Kennedi Taylor Concierges.

April 15 - May 15 2009

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Written by: Dr. Jonita Reynolds President Ivy Educational and Charitable Foundation of Houston, Inc. 17.

Make each employee an advocate for your firm NOW!

much you value them and their con- part of their job be of great interest ciate flexibility in their job. When you tribution any day of the year. No oc- to them. As management theorist provide these characteristics to emcasion is necessary. In fact, small sur- Frederick Herzberg once said, “If you ployees based on desired performance, prises and tokens of your appreciation want someone to do a good job, give it increases the likelihood that they spread throughout the year help the them a good job to do.” While some will perform as desired. Even with people in your work life feel valued all jobs may be inherently boring, you new employees, you can provide work year long.

By Carla Lane Contributing Writer

can provide employees with at least assignments in a way that tells them

While money can be an important one stimulating task or project. Name what needs to be done without dictatway of letting workers know their them to a suggestion committee that ing exactly how to do it. worth to the company, it tends not meets weekly, or to some other special to be a sustaining motivational force group. The increased productivity will

Increased visibility, opportunity.

employees to most individuals. In other words, more than compensate for the time For some workers, providing them whose primary job function is sales or salary raises and bonuses are nice, but away from their regular job.

Whether

you

have

not, you have a sales force. The sale, they seldom motivate people to do no matter what industry you are in, their best on the job on an ongoing begins when a client or potential cli- basis. Daily excitement for people’s ent walks through your doors or calls work is influenced more by how they

with visibility is a public way of giv-

Information/communication/ feedback.

ing them credit for their work. This can be achieved in many ways, such

Now more than ever employees as copying a letter of praise for others

your office. Customer service is not are treated in the workplace-that is, by want information. They crave knowl- in the organization, having the person only important before the sales but the softer side of management more edge about how they are doing in their stand to be acknowledged at a staff even more important after the sale.

than by what they are paid. To inspire jobs and how the company is doing in meeting, putting his or her picture on

Customer service is an integral part employees, managers must recognize its business. Start telling them how a “wall of fame” in your company and of our job as business owners and em- achievements and progress toward the company makes and spends mon- so forth. Likewise, a new assignment ployees and should not be seen as an goals much more frequently than ey. Soon you will have them turning or additional responsibilities extended extension of it. A company’s most vital once a year. In fact, recognizing and out the lights when they are the last to as recognition for past performance also motivates most employees. asset is its customers. Without them, rewarding performance should take leave the room. we would not and could not exist in place on a daily basis.

What tends to motivate workers business. When we satisfy our customers, they not only help us grow by con- the most are such intangibles as being tinuing to do business with us, but rec- appreciated for the work they’ve done,

Highly motivated employees, em-

Involvement/ownership in decisions.

ployees who love what they do AND where they do it are the best advocates

Involving employees-especially in for your business. They will tell others

ommend you to friends and associates. being kept informed about things that decisions that affect them-is both re- about what you do and will sell your Make sure every employee under- affect them and having a sympathetic spectful to them and practical. People service or product effortlessly to anystands the importance of customer manager who takes the time to listen who are closest to the problem or cus- one who will listen. Make sure that tomer typically have the best insight you remember-- the people who work service and you will not only see your to them. bottom line grow. But you also will see

Below are tips to assist in imple- on how to improve a situation. They FOR you work best when you allow

an improvement in the overall mood menting what I call: “The Take Care know what works and what doesn’t, them to work WITH you. They are of People and the Bottom Line will yet they are rarely asked for their opin- people who choose to trust you with of your staff! ion. As you involve others, you en- their careers. Show them that you apEmployees are your internal custom- Grow Method”.

Because employees are motivated hance their commitment and increase preciate the faith they have put in you ers and need a regular dose of appreciation. Thank them and find ways to let by intangible rewards, companies the ease in implementing changes. them know how important they are. would be wise to consider the power

as a small business owner. Investing in

Treat your employees with respect and and possibilities of no-cost job recogchances are they will have a higher re- nition when trying to motivate em-

vestment you ever make!

employees well is equally important.

You can tell your employees how April 15 - May 15 2009

Carla Lane is president and CEO

Most employees-especially experi- of Lane Staffing a full service employ-

gard for customers. Appreciation stems ployees to do their best. from the top. Treating customers and

Independence/autonomy/ flexibility.

your employees, it will be the best in-

enced, top-performing employees-val- ment solution provider. Visit Lane

Interesting work.

ue the freedom to do their job as they Staffing on the web at www.Lanestaff-

Employees should have at least see fit. All employees, however, appre- ing.com. www.

®

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April 15 - May 15 2009

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April 15 - May 15 2009

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April 15 - May 15 2009

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April 15 - May 15 2009

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TX. Her mom was a school teacher actively developing educational mateand the sole bread winner of the fam- rial to enhance the knowledge of those ily, who continually modeled and in- desiring to profit from the market. stilled the core values of hard work His DVD line, The Skilled Investand good ethics in her daughter.

A

ing Series is of a high quality audio/

After graduating from Lamar Uni- video format and designed to meet the t first glance, Justin and even on stocks that were going down. versity, Mena worked different odd needs of the different learning styles.

Mena may appear to have He has been trading ever since, and jobs that often paid less than $25k/ These videos serve as a starting point been born into success, throughout his various careers. but that is a far cry from

year, but she eventually got her foot in for anyone who has or plans to have

After graduating from Lamar Uni- the door of Corporate America where money in the stock market. Even if

where their humble beginnings actu- versity, he attended and graduated her hard work and determination fi- someone is not interested in trading ally started.

from ministry school in Pensacola, nally paid off.

their own personal account, preferring

FL. Before launching his company,

But her success didn’t stop there!

a ‘full-service’ broker, these DVD’s

RapidStockProftis.com in 2007, he

Since childhood her love of baking will equip them with understand-

was a high school Algebra teacher gained her many awards and recogni- ing in order to have a knowledgeable boasting exceptional student scores on tion eventually leading her to start her conversation with their broker. This the state test.

own in-home bakery that now brings helps prevent erroneous investments

“It has ALWAYS been my desire to many requests for her delicious home- and being taken advantage of. help people in their time of need as made cakes. So how did Mena trade

Justin and Mena also decided to go

well as to help them find their gift- in one type of dough for another? She a different route with the Client ining and succeed in that calling! With met and married Justin. my business it will be NO different.

vestments and allow each person to

“I had very little knowledge of how maintain full control over their ac-

I will seek to do the best job possible the stock market worked before I met count, limiting their reach solely to to educate those that are hungry for my husband. When he emailed me a the buys/sells of stocks. This guaranknowledge in the area of investing snapshot showing me how much he’d tees the integrity of the relationship

Justin Frazier CEO Rapid Stock Profits

and finance. My aim is to join forces made in one day (which was more and prevents misappropriations of with many partners of like mind and than I make in a year in Corporate funds. As the authorized trade agent accomplish great things during my America), I knew he was on to some- Rapid Stock Profits works the indi-

When he was just a baby, Justin’s time,” he said.

thing. I became more interested and vidual account that has a minimum of

mother was hospitalized with a chem-

through his knowledge and patient $50k and will request a payment at an

ical imbalance and only after all their

teaching skills, I’ve learned things I appointed time.

resources were depleted to the point

wouldn’t have learned otherwise,” she

of living out of their van, was his fa-

said.

Both Justin and Mena (who are the proud parents of Aedan (19 months)

ther forced to move on. Their journey

In 2007, Justin and Mena co- & Chloe, who will arrive April 28th

took them to the Cayman Islands,

founded their investing company in 2009) have always believed that their

where Justin would be raised.

order to help others by sharing what greatest strength is in their ability to

Overcoming adversity and hard-

they learned along the way. They be- give and help others. Currently they

ships are nothing new for his family as

lieve that each person has a gifting and are conducting FREE seminars to help

he learned from watching them cope

it is the responsibility of that individ- educate anyone interested in learn-

with the various challenges that came

ual to develop those skills in order to ing how to trade and how to protect

their way throughout the years. Help-

be a blessing to those that may need their investments even as the market

ing others and striving for success

their expertise at some point in time.

During his years of training, Jus- more and are interested in hosting a

would eventually become a way of life

Mena Frazier for him.

While still in college, Justin began Co-Founder/VP learning the ways of the stock mar-

tumbles. If you have a group of 10 or

tin often found the study material to seminar, contact them at info@rapidbe somewhat difficult to understand, stockprofits.com

Mena was raised on a dirt road in which is why he decided to put his

ket and found that money was made a tiny community south of Kirbyville, creative teachings skills to work and is

Let us Promote your Business, Your Event, or You! Advertise today in D-MARS Business Journal April 15 - May 15 2009

Call US TODAY!!!

713.272.9511 www.

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23.

By Ronald E. Reynolds, Esq. President, Missouri City & Vicinity Branch, NAAP Joel Barker wrote, “Vision without action is a dream. Action without vision is simply passing time. Vision with action can change the world.”

In the wake of the historic election of the first African-American President of these United States, the vision that Dr. Martin Luther King had over 40 years ago, became a reality. Barack Obama’s election sets the stage for a new and more vibrant America, built

on hope for the future with the promise of change. The opportunity is now, not only because of his historic victory, but also because his Administration heralds a new era of American leadership, government accountability, and social responsibility.

Daily, I awaken with the personal, professional, and civic responsibility of ensuring that I give back more than what was given to me, for to “whom much is given, much is required.” All that you and I benefit from today is because we stand on the shoulders of giants. Their leadership, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to seizing every opportunity, has empowered and emboldened us with a breadth of possibilities. Deeply rooted in the dream realized is a call to action for all of us. As we celebrate Barack Obama’s achievements, we must remember that we, too, plan an important part in his vision for change.

Now, more than ever, we must take the lead and become more engaged at the local level and be willing to stand up for what is right and just. The opportunity is now even as the nation

and the world struggle with the dips and turns of an uncertain economy.

We have seen what can happen when Americans take the lead and mobilize.

I believe deeply in the presidency of Barack Obama, and passionately in the vision that he embodies for America.

The opportunity is now for each of us to take the lead and stand up and be accountable to history, to our families, to ourselves, and to our community.

It is often stated that it takes a village…but we must be ever-so mindful that the village needs leadership. As issue-advocates, it is imperative that we educate individuals, organizations, and public officials to ensure that the needs of all communities are effectively addressed and continue to remain a high priority. Laws declare rights; they don’t deliver them. As long as inequalities exist, there is an opportunity. It becomes incumbent that the community as a whole work together.

The NAACP was created to foster this comprehensive approach to the problem, but it will take the entire village to solve it. There’s an African Proverb that states, “When spiders unite, they can tie up a lion.”

Leadership is key to catalyzing and sustaining change. The kind of change that leaders make depends on who is at the table when the priorities are set and decisions are made that have an impact on the social and economic

well-being of individuals and communities. We must not be delusional and allow the dreams of others to be deferred. I am keenly aware that disparities exist, even amid the NAACP’s Centennial year of existence. The erosion of confidence and the eradication of our inalienable rights are both real and dangerous. This is a time of opportunity, as well as crisis, in our society. As leaders, we must seize the day, and focus our efforts on the former.

We must be the “picker-upper” of pieces when the un-served and underserved frames of reference have been shattered. The opportunity is now for we are living in a time where the unthinkable is manifesting into reality. Therefore, we must use our professional relationships to continue to produce the next generation of leaders and help the underserved in our communities. Our collective success can only occur when all playing fields are leveled. Until then, we must take the lead, continue to network, coordinate, and collaborate with other key stakeholders in order to leverage relationships and resources. In an environment of rising expectations and limited resources, providing a seamless network of possibilities to those in greatest need is paramount. The opportunity is now; the possibilities are endless.

Seize the day!!!

is to donate shoes to our KIN (Kids

This is a community event for any-

In Need) and to bring awareness to one who wishes to come out and supchildhood obesity and the benefits of port the efforts of Shoes 4 School. being active.

Shoe donations are welcomed. To

“Today’s youth are faced with many register online please visit www.misalluring temptations from the Video sion4nutrition.org The President and industry and there is an urgent need First Lady have both made it common for healthy and constructive activities,” knowledge how they want the Com-

Local Shoe Charity Shoes4School.org is giving away 300 pairs of new shoes to Kids In Need.

By Leola Anifowoshe, Contributing Writer

says Executive Director Leola Anifo- munity to reach out to help those in woshe, a mother of five children who need. This is an organization that welis currently competing in the Gover- comes your help. To host a shoe drive nor’s sponsored Texas Roundup family visit www.shoes4school.org for vendor fitness category with her entire family. info or questions contact the office at Shoe 4 School.org is dedicated to its 281.937.7333.

mission of Reaching ChilDid you know that over 38 percent ister to walk will receive a new pair dren Changing Lives One of fourth graders in the state of Tex- of athletic shoes. From 8:00am until Pair at A Time ™. as are overweight? On May 2, 2009 12 noon the entire family can enjoy a The organization enShoes 4 School, a local shoe charity, host of activities, prizes and trophies dures to ensure that every will touch the souls/soles of many lo- for all ages. child has a new pair of cal children by providing them with a Entertainment provided by Hous- shoes, backpacks and adnew pair of shoes at their “Walk A ton’s Own teen phenomenon J. equate school supplies and Mile In My Shoes” Walk-A-Thon held Xavier. Emcee is Sugar Land’s City that no child is left behind. at Sugar Land’s Oyster Creek Park.

Council Woman Jacquie Baly Chau- A Hole is the Sole can leave The first 300 needy children to reg- mette. The purpose of the walkathon a Hole in The Soul ™ April 15 - May 15 2009

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embrace it.”

traction? This theory states you attract

As we look at our nation’s declining what you focus on. For example, if economy, these words carry a strong you solely focus on not having a job, message during these challenging you will likely do nothing creative to times. For those people who are strug- generate revenue. However, if you fogling to make ends meet, or find a new cus on creative ways to make money, job, missed opportunities can spiral you’ll start to attract creative sources that way.” We often apologize with a your life down the gutter of bankrupt- and people to generate revenue.

Believe me, this theory works! sincere contrite heart recanting words cy. The time to act is now! spoken out of anger. Nevertheless, you

If we are honest with ourselves we When your mind is not free to think

can’t take back words that fall from will admit that there have been missed positive and creative it is very difficult your mouth. Once it is said, regard- opportunities that we now regret, for you to recognize great opportuniless of the tearful apology, it has been which may have had a great impact ties when they are all around you. So, released into the atmosphere with on our lives today. It is true that hind- the message is simple and clear; the sight is 20/20; therefore most of us re- time is NOW to free your mind to re-

your name attached to it.

#2 – A Hasty Decision How many times have we made de-

alize afterward the impact of a missed ceive positive thoughts and ideas and opportunity.

Let’s not kick ourselves too hard. TUNITY!

cisions without carefully considering The most important thing is that we the outcome? Hasty decisions often learn from our mistakes. When great

Dr. D. L. Jones, Contributing Writer

lead to bad outcomes that can affect opportunities present themselves again, especially during these tough times, the future of one’s life.

Excitement and fear can cause us we must act upon them immediately.

Life has taught me that there are to make hasty decisions. When we get If we spend too much time analyzing three things a person can’t get back. excited about something or are fear- the condition of our condition, we’re

#1 – A Spoken Word

never miss another GREAT OPPOR-

Let us Promote your Business, Your Event, or You! Advertise today in D-MARS Business Journal

ful about a situation, we fail to think in danger of missing the opportunity about the long-term consequences. that’s staring us in the face.

It has been said that we can’t un- Put the excitement or fear on pause, speak what has been spoken. We can’t take a deep breath and step back from

Have you heard of the Law of At-

un-break what’s been broken. How the situation until you are able to dequick the blue skies turn to black, tach the emotions and objectively crifrom the words we can’t take back.

Have you ever said something that

tique your decision.

When making a hurt someone’s feelings and heard at the pros and cons. them say, “You take that back!” The there are any benefits truth is that you can’t take it back, from your decision.

decision, look Ask yourself if that will come

Having somecan you? Once you have said it, it is one give you their honest opinion on said. You can’t put the words back in things, can sometimes help you make your mouth any more than you can the right decision. It hurts sometimes unscramble eggs. That is why we need to hear the truth, but if it is coming to be very careful about the things we from a true friend, it can save you say. The Bible says, “He who holds from disappointment. his tongue is wise.”

Not all of our decisions that we As children growing up we’ve heard make will be the right ones, but by the nursery rhyme that says, “Sticks avoiding hasty decisions, there will be and stones may break my bones, but a better chance that we escape dissapwords can never hurt me.” That pointments. sounds nice, but it just isn’t true.

Words not only can hurt, words can literally kill. Careless words can cut like a knife. It is very important for

#3 – A Missed Opportunity Lastly, the only way to ensure not

us to be careful about the things that becoming a victim of missing out on proceed out of our mouths.

a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity is to

Many times we say things in anger ACT NOW! that we truly regret; sad but true, we

Napoleon Hill wrote “Opportunity

can’t take it back. We often hear it has a queer way of stalking the person said “I take that back, I didn’t mean it who can recognize it and is ready to April 15 - May 15 2009

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Breaking down the so-called housing crisis

wasn’t mandatory and did not want could cause a significant and constant taxes rolled into their payment be- rise in a monthly payment, affecting cause that would mean choosing a the families’ ability to pay. cheaper home. So here comes the two

So now the aftermath is lenders

closure crisis ever came about in the year mark. Chances are if their score tightening up on loan guidelines, refirst place, we can focus our attention was barely a 580 back then and they quiring down payment money and on the fact that a large percentage of already purchased a home, there was raising their credit score criteria. Inloans that were foreclosed on belonged little likelihood of their score being stead of being turned off and frightto previous first-time homebuyers that in a better position to refinance into ened, this should be looked at as an probably should not have ever been a better loan. Needless to say two year opportunity to do things the right granted a loan in the first place. Fi- periods came up, families were unable way, to plan, save, get educated, and nancial institutions had a certain type to refinance, every six months after the get your credit in order. For those of loan (sub-prime) set aside for those two year period, rates would go up. stuck in this mess there are houswith less attractive credit profiles, not On top of this, many may not have ing counseling agencies and Realtors much money to invest and who didn’t paid their taxes. What happens when available to provide possible options really understand loan terms as it re- you don’t pay your taxes? Lenders pay to foreclosure. The resources are here lates to adjustable or fixed. If I break the taxes for you and make you pay but you have to learn to research and

By Tasha Bowen Contributing Writer

this down in simple terms and what them back in your monthly payment. use what is available and find oppordoes this mean?

All of these things happening at once tunity in every situation!

A few years ago, the ideal scenario for a home buyer that had properly planned the home purchase and

Why do we allow bad news from wanted a decent home loan would the media to have a lasting impres- have been to have a credit score of sion on our minds, and ultimately our 620 or higher, possibly put down a

By Tasha Bowen, Contributing Writer decision-making process? few bucks, make sure the interest rate Lately, all we hear about is the na- was fixed and ensure that taxes and intional housing market crisis, and how surance were rolled into the monthly it has affected the Real Estate indus- payment. Instead, this is what haptry. The reporters, who have abso- pened: Anxious, excited home buyers lutely nothing to do with Real Estate, rolled out of bed one day and decided are offering their opinions, analyzing “I think I want a house!” With no property values, and making future previous planning or education they predictions. I’m sorry, but I would decided to begin the process. At this think that if you have a health issue, particular time a 580 would get you you would visit a physician for a di- into a home with NO money down, agnosis, not a hair salon. Therefore, and the seller was allowed to pay the if you have questions as it relates to buyer’s closing cost, and any addihome buying or selling, seek the assis- tional cost could be rolled into the fitance of a real estate professional.

O

the industry. The rise in foreclosures is and decline escrow accounts, this way a sad situation in that families are los- they could get a more expensive home ing their properties. However, it has for less money, because they could just caused properties to lose value, result- pay the taxes later. (An escrow account ing in lower home prices. With fore- is what allows taxes and insurance to closures on the rise, now there are way be added to your monthly payment).

takes and move forward.

P

- Perseverance

talent in others.

U-

P-

Prioritizing your tasks and relationships by importance as it relates to your values and

comfortable with you.

NI-

Organizing

your

caused some individuals to hold off on means payments would rise. their home purchase, when in fact this Well, here you have a family that, may be the best time. first of all, didn’t understand credit,

Never say never.

Immediate - opportunities don’t necessarily take a lifeto take action, the quicker

strategy

doors will open.

helps you to see clearly the

Reputation - being reliable is

T-

Talent - when you are truly gifted in a certain area, re-

being able to be trusted and

member God gave you that

to do what is expected of you.

gift so if you begin to utilize

Your

your talents he has already

reputation

becomes

placed your resources.

your “character”

T-

Team - realizing that you can’t handle every single task, and

Y-

Say “Yes I can” instead of doubting yourself. If you

you don’t have to accept cred-

don’t think you can, then who

it for everything, however

else will?

with a team you can accom-

For those wondering how this fore- didn’t want to put down money if it April 15 - May 15 2009

www.

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to

time. The quicker you begin

goals you wish to achieve.

R-

means

ent from someone else’s. Be

beliefs.

O-

accomplishment

cess may be completely differ-

ward and remaining consissetbacks.

Understanding what life and you. Your perception of suc-

- pushing for-

tent, despite difficulties and

more homes for sale, forcing sellers to This particular loan product came price their properties competitively, with a two year adjustable rate, which thus resulting in more inventory for means in two years they would need those looking to purchase property. to refinance for better loan terms, The negative media attention has otherwise their rate would rise, which

appointment lies the opportunity to learn from your mis-

nancing. Buyers were wanting a larger

Let’s look at the housing market home than what they could really affrom an individual that is actually in ford, so they would purchase homes

plish more and bring out the

- Obstacles - within every dis-

26.

Baby”. Sesily’s heroic endurance of in-utero chemotherapy and a premature arrival reaffirmed Leslie’s knowledge of God’s grace and miraculous power.

volved in community service. In acknowledgement of her generous work, she received the Community of Dental Service Award sponsored by Proctor and Gamble and the Robert B. Clayton Memorial Award given by the Department of General Practice at U.T.S.A. Dental School. She was one of only two African American women in her class.

Leslie received her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree in 1993 and she managed and worked with several dental groups for seven years before realizing her dream to provide dental care to persons often overlooked. It was with a servant’s spirit that she started Texas Mobile Dental, a business that provides care to individuals confined to their homes and to persons in nursing facilities in the Houston, Austin, and San Antonio areas. Not stopping there, she extended her heart and used her talents to initiate the dental component of the Shalom Zone Mobile Clinic in 2000. This outreach program of the Dr. Leslie Bowie Wells Brooks United Methodist Church provides care to the unIt is with both jubilation and sadness that we pay der-served and underemployed residents of Houstribute to such a loving person who impacted count- ton at minimal or no cost. less lives. We celebrate the life of Dr. Leslie Gail BowLeslie continued her commitment to commuie Wells Brooks who made her transition to be with nity service through local mission activities and our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on November 4, through her travels with mission teams to provide 2008. She was a humble servant of the Lord, always dental care to residents in the Colonias of Rio Bravo radiating and drawing light through her seemingly and Reynosa, Mexico. In addition, she traveled to effortless words, deeds, grace, and style.

Nicaragua to provide dental care as one of Marvin Leslie was born May 6, 1967 in San Antonio, Zindler’s Angels and she co-founded Mosaic MisTexas and her family moved to Houston when she sions - an organization created to increase mission was 6 yrs. old. She was a member of St. Francis work efforts among people of color. Her genuine Xavier Catholic Church and she attended Houston desire to do mission work was an expression of her public schools. Already a decisive decision maker, undying love for Christ and this love was further she claimed health care as her chosen field when she demonstrated in her role as praise dance leader at was in the sixth grade. During her high school years Love UMC, and as a member of the Organizing she specifically selected dentistry as her profession Board and leader of the Communion Stewart Team and she graduated from the High School for Health at Living Water UMC. Professions in 1985.

In 2002 she, along with her business partner Dr. After graduation from high school she excitedly Alison Scott Cuillier, opened Lasting Impressions joined the sisterhood of Spelman College. She ma- Dental Group in the Midtown district of Housjored in Psychology/pre-dentistry and from day-one ton. Her vibrant personality and style is expressed she embodied the Spelman spirit and became in- through the fashion in which she designed and decvolved in many campus activities and events. While orated their office. Her patients describe her as comfully enjoying a traditional college experience, Leslie passionate and gentle. She often comforted patients also enjoyed membership at St. Anthony’s Catholic through their dental treatments, effectively calming Church where she became a minister of the Eucha- those who would otherwise experience great angst rist. She truly embraced all that Spelman had to offer from the mere sight of a dental chair. and she left her mark as an amazing friend, sister, and Her loving and compassionate spirit dazzled Patstudent to classmates and faculty at both Spelman rick Brooks and on an NBS ski trip in Keystone, and brother institution – Morehouse College.

Colorado he asked for her hand in marriage. They In the fall of 1989, Leslie enrolled in Dental were married on April 20, 2002 and this union gave School at the University of Texas at San Antonio. Leslie a bonus child - Joshua S. Brooks. On August During her four years in dental school her gift of 14, 2006 Joshua was joined by a spirited and resilient compassion shined through as she became very in- sister, Sesily Patrice, affectionately called “SweetApril 15 - May 15 2009

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As a witness of the Lord’s profound grace and power, Leslie continued a valiant fight against the aggressive presence of cancer in her body. Throughout her illness, she trusted the Lord and was a valiant student of the Word. She eventually came to the understanding that her purpose was discovered in the process. She also realized that victory was not a destination but rather a vital component of her everyday existence. Leslie took her responsibility seriously, of expressing God’s love and confirming His presence through her interactions with everyone she encountered. She was always quick to remind each of us to “Rejoice in the Lord always”. Her beaming smile and loving heart were ever present and a blessing to encounter. Her strength and grace were always apparent as was her “diva-like” quality even during the most difficult moments of her life’s journey with cancer. Her hospital room became a place of praise and honor for the God who she always claimed as ‘the One in charge and oh so capable of providing exactly what we need’. Her testimony is powerful and mighty and was never diminished by the frailty of illness.

Leslie’s exuberant life has left a legacy beyond measure. To keep her memory alive, she leaves her loving husband and children; parents Lester and Woodie Wells; step-father Michael Bowie, Sr.; grandmothers Ruth Wells and Launer King; siblings Michael Bowie, Jr. (Jeannette), Lisa Green, Chelsea Lennox (Richard), Lester Wells, Jr., and Tanya Bowie; father-in-law Lott Brooks, Jr. (Aleice); brothers and sisters-in-law Lott, Brooks III, Gwethalyn Brooks, Diane Brooks, and Reginald Brooks. Her memory will also be cherished by her loving aunts and uncles Marshall King, Sammy Grant (Cynthia), Joanne “Aunie”, Roy “Uncle Roy” Broussard, Rita Frison, Craig Bowie, Sandra Moore, Gregory Wells (Cecilia), Kevin Wells, and Regina Gonzales (George); Godmothers Elaine Molo, Peaches Jackson, and Goldie Walker; nieces and nephews Joshua, Maurice, Lauren, Mariah, Michael, III, Jason, and Cambridge, II. She also leaves godchildren and a host of other relatives that will treasure her memory and she will never be forgotten by her community of friends, colleagues, and associates.

In keeping with her generous heart and philanthropic spirit, Dr. Leslie Bowie Wells Brooks established “Saving Smiles” a non-profit organization that provides dental services for underserved and under-privileged people. If you would care to donate in memory of Leslie’s legacy please send to; Saving Smiles, c/o Jackson and Associates, 3375 Westpark Dr., Suite 534, Houston, TX 77005. We will forever miss Leslie’s bright & loving smile, but we will never forget her “caring” heart & “kind” spirit. What an “awesome” woman of God! 27.

By Gee Powell Contributing Writer

Golden State Mutual Life Appoints New District Manager Golden State Mutual Life Insurance Company (GSM) recently named Larry D. Richardson as the new District Manager for Houston, one of the company’s largest districts.

A native Texan, Larry D. Richardson was born in Dallas, where he attended Sam Houston State University and April 15 - May 15 2009

attained his Bachelor’s Degree from the University of North Texas.

Previously he was the owner and operator of a printing company in Austin, before he moved to Houston. For the past 23 years, he has had a successful career in the life insurance business and has repeatedly been recognized for

his outstanding sales achievements.

Richardson is active in many local civic clubs, churches, educational and industry affairs. He is Past President of San Jacinto Insurance and Financial Advisors, a Life Member of the NAACP and a Mount Corinth Church Trustee. www.

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Parking space or storage shed - the garage is the last vestige of extra space in our overstuffed lives. The invasion of more stuff from an organized home takes control of the garage and renders it a hapless space-starved mess.

Growth takes over and the automobile ceases to have a relationship with the inside of the garage, it is parked outside to fend against the elements.

The magic is simply using the garage for what it was meant for; to park your vehicles in.

Yet finding room for the vehicle may be an overpowering chore. From holiday boxes to bikes and packrat bags, the garage is seen first in the morning on the way to work and first at end of your work day. Yet the monster looms when it’s opened to the world and all that is visible is clutter, which disturbs your inner peace and thus your productivity.

There was a time when one garage was considered a luxury. Now we have two to four plus garages and hardly any autos parked in them. Does the paradox of having parkways for driving and driveways for parking come into

play? One hardly knows?

You can commit to change today. The new PVC SlatWall (high density polyvinyl chloride) adds superior holding power for a lifetime with hooks and shelf systems for bikes, balls, bags, cans, lawn and sports equipment and a variety of light and heavy tools. From the fisherman to the handyman or handywoman, make the garage yours again. Pegboard is a thing of the past, indulge is the magic of PVC slatwall and live the difference. Today PVC is used throughout the house for plumbing and electrical runs.

Now the same high quality is ready for the garage. PVC slatwall is expandable and resilient to withstand dirt, moisture and oils; it cleans easily with water and lasts for decades.

Enjoy the magic of a new workbench, laundry area, hobby area or a multi-purpose get-a-way area with 100% affordable flexibility.

Take control of your life, add magic to your garage! For more details contact LuvClosets.com or call 281-820-2220.

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Justin Frazier CEO Rapid Stock Profits

Y

ou may be pondering this very same question, as many others out there are.

You may even feel a tinge of fear, which has slowly crept in over the last few months due to the bleak outlook and constant negativity gushing from the news media. Or it could be from the depressing figures on the last glance at your 401k or mutual fund account.

You may or may not be moved by the drastic drop in the stock market, however, one thing is for certain, you would like to know when we will reach the bottom of this rollercoaster and all of its dramatic glory so that you can start seeing some green or hearing some positive news for once! But before I tell you the answer, I would like to share a bit about how I think we got here.

Credit is one major component that has led to our quick plummet from the lofty places. It can be used for our benefit if applied correctly and wisely, but it can also chop a person down in a few short weeks if restraint is not shown. The last several years have brought an onslaught of people who live on credit. They buy everything under the sun - many things they could do without - but this shopping spree was heavily encouraged as it pushed company profits higher and higher. The reflection is revealed in the company stock price as well. Look at any 10-year chart and you will see how flat we were for the first five April 15 - May 15 2009

years then we launched like a rocket during the last five years. We pushed over-inflated levels, just like in the dot com era of the late 90’s. And as the two sayings go, ‘history always repeats itself!’ and ‘what goes up…must come down!’ So our bubble was bound to burst.

Buying on credit is just so easy that we keep spending more borrowed money until we are eventually forced to reckon with the bills and high interest rates that come after the honeymoon is over. With a halt in buying and a tightening of budgets, company profits come crashing down, which has a direct impact on the stock price.

As I mentioned, credit, (also known as leverage), can be useful, but when we over-leverage without restraint then bad things can happen. Many of our banks and big financial institutions were investing in companies and over-leveraging their positions to frightening levels. Yes, they also took other risks that turned south, but when things started tumbling at a faster pace than expected, it was very difficult to sell their positions due to the LARGE amount in their holding tank. If they were to dump big blocks of shares at a time, it would surely cause a panic and alert every Tom, Dick & Harry who would then be jumping ship as well.

This is a reason why they tried to do it slowly, but with the market sliding the way it was, there was no way to salvage the investment, which led to BIG losses after the dust settled. Now many of those institutions are either out of commission or sitting on the verge of collapse.

So when will we see the bottom?

The answer is simple: when it is confirmed! In the professional trading arena, we don’t look to get in at the very bottom and get out at the very top! We leave that for the HIGH risk investor, for the ‘get rich quick’ seeker. Many times we allow them to tell us when that event has occurred and then we enter in order to solidify the move, which is called ‘trading on confirmation.’ It saves many headaches, heartaches and antacids purchases.

There is no real way to know when a top or bottom will occur, but there are www.

signs that are dictated to us through the charts. You may have heard another saying, ‘A picture is worth a thousand words!’ Well, in trading, the chart is our picture. It gives us clues as to how the company is functioning on a fundamental level and alerts us to either buy or sell their stock.

In my Trading 101 DVD, I teach you the basics of how to trade by reading the charts. Even if you are not interested in personal trading, this DVD will give you a greater understanding of how things work. So when you are talking to your broker, the conversation is smooth and understandable.

By learning how to read the charts, you will recognize the signs of confirmation that are given and be able to make wise decisions and have better timing on your entries. It’s not rocket science, but a simple method of learning how certain indicators give signals and alerts for a change in direction of a particular trend, which in our cur-

®

rent situation, is DOWN. So we are waiting for the clues of a change in trend in order to verify that the bottom has been found.

Back to the initial question, is it time to invest? The answer again, is simple: Absolutely! No, we haven’t found a market bottom? But I know how to make money, even as the market is going down. It’s a simple technique that over 95 percent of the people are unaware of. It’s called SHORTING. The buy low/sell high concept still applies, but you do it in reverse order. If you think a stock is going to fall, then you put in an order to SHORT SELL, which will give you a negative position. Then when the stock falls, you will BUY TO COVER your short position. So you bought low and sold high, just in reverse order. There are a few other things to know about this before jumping in, but if you are interested in learning, I have two ways to help you. First, my Trading 101 DVD will give you all the tools necessary to begin and second, for a limited time I am offering FREE 1 hour seminars to groups of 10 or more where I will teach these basic components. Visit my website for details www.rapidstockprofits.com.

29.

Anthony Norris EBusiness Lending, LLC Anthony Norris has 12 years of finance experience and has worked with firms such as Mak Haik Ford, Orion Mortgage & Real Estate, Northwest Lending, and is currently Regional Vice-President of E-Business Lending.

Mr. Norris finance experience includes automobile financing, mortgage lending, commercial and residential real estate lending, small business credit financing and equipment financing.

Currently Mr. Norris is involved with providing short term financing to small exchange traded public companies. His firm also participates in private equity deal structuring of hybrid investment products, business education and business consulting.

In 2004 Anthony Norris was hired

by E-Business Lending after he negotiated the sale of his mortgage banking company, Northwest Lending to

E-Business Lending. Under Mr. Norris leadership Northwest Lending had become the third largest mortgage brokerage in the State of Texas. Northwest Lending had over 137 loan officers producing mortgage loans.

Mr. Norris is a devoted family man with three children. He and his wife Stacey have enjoyed fifteen years of marriage together. Anthony attributes his discipline as a business man to his training in the United States Navy, where he served his country for four years before entering corporate America. He has climbed through the ranks by demonstrating his dedication, efficiency, and ability to consistently perform at high levels.

His business acumen and professional qualities have been noticed by companies other than the ones for which he has been employed. He is a sitting board member of several companies and offers his experience and advice many others.

Mr. Norris is most proud of his participation in Rotary. He believes that he is not defined by his many personal accomplishments but by his service to others. He joined Rotary five years ago and is the immediate past President of the Galleria Area Rotary Club.

Anthony Norris is also a member of The Doers Workshop.com, which is an organization that is dedicated to mentoring young professionals and entrepreneurs.

Advertise Your Business Online!!!

We received over 3 million hits on our website last year. d-mars.com 10 year anniversary Online Specials: Online Directory, Event Calendar, Classifieds & News Visit d-mars.com or call 713-272-9511 today for more information!

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The Project Manager Group Construction & Development 1999 marks the year Kevin & Katrina Calvin began a long string of gutsy moves, starting with a multimillion dollar restaurant and concessions contract with Six Flags Astroworld and then in 2000, diving into the very tough and competitive field of custom home building and commercial construction and development.

Kevin Calvin, a.k.a. K.C., a wellknown celebrity chef and Katrina Baker-Calvin were the owners of the Bellaire Café Restaurant Group with a Hollywood A-List of clients such as Houston’s own Beyonce Knowles, Kelly Rowland, activist Quanell X, Santana Dotson of the Super Bowl Green Bay Packers, actor Larenz Tate and high-powered attorney Gwendolyn F. Climmons to name a few. Both Kevin and Katrina enjoyed the restaurant business but when Astroworld closed without giving any prior notice, the Calvins were pushed nearly into financial ruin and were forced to endure great hardship before landing back on solid ground.

“At the time we didn’t know why life had turned ugly in the blink of an eye, but we knew God and we trusted in Him to bring us through the storm just as He always had during the past 20 years of both our business and personal lives,” says Katrina.

Since both were interested in the home building and design business, they began first by researching the market, looking at the various types of services and products that were out there, and then educated themselves in the construction business. Kevin first took a job as superintendent of a very well-known custom homebuilder in the Houston Afton Oaks Galleria area. The job paid little, but the education was invaluable.

“I learned a great deal about home building from my mentor and I was amazed at how cooking was so simiApril 15 - May 15 2009

lar to homebuilding…instead of flour, oils, wines and various seasonings I had boards, sheetrock, texture, paint and bricks. And like cooking, you simply have to use good ingredients, a lot of love and put things into play when it’s time for them to be added to your recipe. That’s the secret to great building!”

While Kevin was learning to build, Katrina began taking real-estate classes and various accounting courses since it was always her job to run the administrative and financial aspects of their business. “ We learned from our mistakes with our ordeal with Six Flags Astroworld. There we were, two young African-Americans making nearly $2 millions dollars one year and then broke the next because our so-called “partners” pulled to rug from under our feet. “ We ate tacos at Jack-N-the Box and on the $0.99 cent value menu at Wendy’s just to survive and our children were asking questions because they don’t understand what’s going on around them. I tell people all the time, you haven’t felt rock bottom until they are out front repossessing all your cars and then suddenly you don’t even have bus fare,” explained Katrina.

Both Kevin and Katrina are very passionate about home building and the construction industry as a whole, and hope to put their very own stamp on Houston just as famed black architect John Chase once did.

Kevin adds, “ There are very few, relatively no large black-owned construction firms here in Houston. In fact, nearly all the high profile large building projects and developments are being constructed by large whiteowned firms and most Blacks and Hispanics are left with the crumbs. We think that when we are allowed to be brought onto projects as the minority contractor then we have made it, when in actuality we are only being given a very small slice of the so-called www.

tion to detail. These are all values that are incorporated into every one of our projects. We believe in excellence and the old school idea that the customer comes first. We hope that you will contact us and allow us to help you to bring your dreams to life.”

No job is too big or too small and every customer is treated with the very same amount of care and respect. We specialize in all forms and phases of construction and project management. Please give us a call @ 713.516.3462 for a quote today.

pie that’s out there on the table… and we settle for that just like good old Negroes do. With our company we embrace the idea of being diversified in the workplace, the community and in all aspects, but we are adamant about our vision of some day becoming a serious player in the market place with the construction industry, as you should too! ‘ We live in a world where quantity reigns over quality. No where is this more apparent than I home and commercial construction projects. We have all driven down streets where every home or shopping center basically looks the same. Not so with our home and commercial buildings. At The Project Manager Group, quality reigns supreme. Our customers select The Project Manager Group when ordinary just won’t do. As soon as you step into one of our homes or commercial Katrina & Kevin Calvin buildings you know it is special. Qual- The Project Manager Group ity materials. Craftsmanship. Atten- Construction & Development

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Wheeler Avenue Christian Academy: Educating our children the Christian way Billie Jo Johnson, Contributing Writer Are you seeking a Christian school for your children? Stop looking!

Wheeler Avenue Christian Academy has the answer. This new facility, located at 3810 Ruth Street, adjoins Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church and supports the development of children from six (6) weeks of age through grade 4.

Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church has embraced early childhood education since its inception in the 1960s.

In 1967, Mrs. Audrey Lawson, a frontrunner in education and wife of Pastor Emeritus William A. Lawson, founded the Infant School. Alumni of the Infant School are making significant contributions to the city of Houston as educators, entrepreneurs, medical doctors, and a plethora of various careers.

In 2005, the current pastor, Rev. Dr. Marcus D. Cosby, shared his vision for a Christian school that would

include kindergarten through grade 12 with the intent to add a grade each year. In preparation for this modification, the Infant School and Elementary Schools have merged.

Presently, the name of the combined schools is Wheeler Avenue Christian Academy (WACA). Veteran principal and educator, Dr. Doris Bilton, amiably agreed to come out of retirement and invest two years to establish the school; securing a Bright Beginnings Grant was a major accomplishment of her administration. The early work in foundation building continued under the astute leadership of an exceptional principal and educator, Dr. Jacqueline Cobbin. During her administration, WACA earned its accreditation status.

The school’s forward movement continues under the capable leadership of yet another veteran educator, Mrs. Billie Joe Johnson.

It is our belief that Christian edu-

Get Involved, Give Back NOW

By Charlotte Jackson Contributing Writer We work hard for our money. I do not know many who would argue with that statement. So, why are so many people not getting the priceless returns for their money? Is it perhaps that we have allowed our priorities to get out of focus? Each year, many Americans spend money on trips to theme parks, April 15 - May 15 2009

sporting events, concerts, clothes, nicer homes, newer cars and many forms of self-gratification, when in reality, they are not any happier.

I think with the current economic situation in our country, we have been given an opportunity to return to our roots. It is time to evaluate our priorities and make a difference. When is the last time you sat down one on one and learned some American history?

When is the last time you watched history being made in front of your eyes?

Instead of spending money on the activities we have in the past few decades, if all of us would take a day, find an elderly person in our community, treat them to lunch and listen, we might actually learn history that is never going to be found in a textbook. Or if we volunteered to read at a local Head Start Center or Pre-K Classroom, we would watch history being made as a young child learns to recognize shapes, colors and words.

Imagine the excitement of watching www.

cation is vital in developing children who will become productive citizens and strong leaders. A distinguishing element of the learning community at Wheeler Avenue Christian Academy (WACA) is our acknowledgement of the pivotal connection between Christian education and academic skills.

Wheeler Avenue Christian Academy is committed to providing high quality education and high academic standards for its students. As we survey best practices, it our goal to use these procedures to accelerate students to their highest potential. The credentialed/certified teachers at WACA are key components in creating quality educational experiences for children.

WACA has adopted the A Beka Curriculum, which is dedicated to providing excellence in education from a Christian perspective. Widely used in Christian schools, this curriculum is based on a traditional apa young mom learn to read? What about experiencing the joy of taking a young teen to their first high school football game?

If you have the time to change a flat tire, you have the time to teach something that many young people have never seen. There is a generation of young people who have no idea how to sew a button on a shirt or fry an egg. Look around you, there are so many opportunities to get involved.

It can be as simple as collecting “Box

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proach to education.

It is rewarding to observe the children as they assemble for weekly chapel activities. Even the very young children understand the significance of this endeavor. Chapel activities create opportunities for children to demonstrate their understanding of the Word of God and its application to daily living.

Wheeler Avenue Christian Academy has big dreams. Key stakeholders are determined to feature small classes, promote high academic achievement, create an exemplary augmented fine arts program, and offer motivating summer programs.

Registration and fall enrollment will continue through June 15, 2009.

The 2009 Summer Program will begin June 4, 2009, ending July 1, 2009.

Please call (713) 579-2792 to speak with Mrs. Billie J. Johnson, Executive Director or Mrs. Gloria Rose, Director of the Infant School concerning the regular program or the 2009 Summer Program. We welcome the opportunity to discuss our Christian education programs with you.

Tops for Education” for your local school or collecting used cell phones for a women’s shelter; but each one of us have an opportunity NOW to make a difference in lives all around us.

One thing I have learned in life is when I am busy helping someone else, I am truly the one who benefits. There is nothing that can compare with the joy of knowing you have helped someone in a way that can never be repaid. The opportunity is now. Get involved, make a difference.

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