d-mars.com Business Journal 57

Business Journal Jan. - Feb. 15 2012

Women In It to Win It

INSIDE

57TH Edition

Inspire, Inform & Educate

2012 is Your Winning Year

2012 – A Year of Challenges, Opportunity and Winning

By Pam Terry

Gail Mathis Ardyss International

The human spirit is one that rises up to a challenge.

PAGE 11

Ultimate Touch Shirley Williams A Mother’s Love Changes a Community Love often compels us to respond to an unfortunate situation.

PAGE 14-15

Chef Michelle, All About Cakes & Catering

“I got my start by giving myself a start.” - Madame C. J. Walker

Greta Douglas & Shaunda Sostand ItWorks Global

Are You Ready To Win!

By Dr. Wendy People typically set goals so they can change the direction of their lives.

PAGE 23

Mary McWilliams & Pia McWilliams Complete the Curriculum

Helen Callier Bradlink

Dr. Anjanette Wyatt Clinical Care Pharmacy

Vickie Gunnells-Hodge Love in Abundance

Sisterhood: An Often Forgotten Blessing

By Carla Lane Everyday, we need each other … still PAGE 32

Cypresswood Estates: A “Fabulous” Affordable Green Community for Seniors The Only One of its Kind in the Nation!

See pg. 6-9

2.

January - February 15, 2012

January - February 15, 2012

Behind The

Journal

3.

Publisher’s Message

Keith J. Davis, Sr.

SR. PUBLISHER Keith J. Davis, Sr. VICE PRESIDENT Kevin Davis EDITING CONSULTANT Sharon Jenkins OPERATIONS COORDINATOR Stephanie Myers ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT Abbey Rodriguez ACCOUNTING MANAGER Eugenie Doualla SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Mike Jones C.T. Foster Pastor Freddie L. Davis, III Dwight Jones Eric D. Goodwine PHOTOGRAPHY L.C. Poullard

Grady Carter MARKETING CONSULTANT Johnny Ray Davis, Jr. Barbara Wiederhold MULTIMEDIA DIRECTOR Andrea Hennekes LAYOUT & GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Ghuzzala Malik (Faith) Ferland Antwine DISTRIBUTION Booker T. Davis, Jr. Johnny Ray Davis, Jr. Rockie Hayden CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Nicole Murray Christina Grochett Pam Terry Crawford McGill Noel Pinnock Joy Chudacoff Dr. Wendy Dr. D. L. Jones Alvin Terry Val Thompson Toni Harris Carla Lane Sharon C. Jenkins Barbara Lazarony JP Jones Vonda White

This month’s theme is “Women In It to Win It!” In this issue we annually like to celebrate women entrepreneurs, the fastest growing demographic in the business sector in our nation. Houston, the 4th largest city in the U.S., is not without its share of dynamic and successful female entrepreneurs in the for-profit and non-profit world. It is one of the 10 largest metropolitan areas for women-owned firms. We celebrate your accomplishments and provide this issue in support of your business endeavors for those women who are “In it to win it!”

As always, thank you for your continued support of d-mars.com. When you support d-mars.com, you are supporting more than just our company; you are supporting the communities in which we live and work.

Working together, we can succeed in making things happen.

CONTENTS Life is Sweet........................................................................................................................................................ 4 Cypresswood Estates: A “Fabulous” Affordable Green Community for Seniors................................................. 6-9 Business Success – Also a State of Mind............................................................................................................ 11 2012 – A Year of Challenges, Opportunity and Winning................................................................................... 11 5 Steps for a Smart Financial Start in 2012....................................................................................................... 13 A Mother’s Love Changes a Community............................................................................................................. 14-15 The Vita Doc…Keeping your Employees Healthy in the New Year................................................................... 17 Beyond the Scope of Your Eyes............................................................................................................................ 19 Smart Women and The Tug of Transition............................................................................................................ 20 Dr. Wyatt Making a Difference in Our Community........................................................................................... 20 Ultimate Touch Beauty Salon: A Dream Rebuilt................................................................................................ 21 Multi-level Marketing Anyone?.......................................................................................................................... 22 Are You Ready To Win!....................................................................................................................................... 23 Black Women are Straightening it Out!.............................................................................................................. 24 Women in It to Win It!....................................................................................................................................... 25 International Speaking” Business Opportunities for African Americans in China.............................................. 26 Jamaican Tradition You Can Taste...................................................................................................................... 27 College offers a course in the high-demand field of maritime administration...................................................... 28 Branwar Wine is South Africa’s Finest.............................................................................................................. 28 Black Heritage Committee holds annual gala...................................................................................................... 31 Take DRASTIC Steps to Achieve Your Goals...................................................................................................... 31 Sisterhood: An Often Forgotten Blessing............................................................................................................ 32 A Detoxing Cleansing System.............................................................................................................................. 33 Love In Abundance College................................................................................................................................. 34 Are you ready to bring it?..................................................................................................................................... 36 Complete the Curriculum: Addressing the Mathmatical Education Divide......................................................... 37 5 Keys to Unlock the Social Media Maven Within............................................................................................ 37 Helen Callier, A Woman in the Game of Aviation to Win It!............................................................................ 38 Top 10 Secrets of Success..................................................................................................................................... 39

MR. D-MARS Tip of the Month A company is only as good as the people it keeps.

- Mary Kay Ash

“d-mars.com is certified with SBE, HUB, DBE & Port of Houston SBDP.”

D-MARS.com Business Journal 7322 Southwest Fwy, Suite 805 Houston, Texas 77074 713-272-9511 . Phone 713-272-6364 . Fax 1-800-453-8752 . Toll Free www.d-mars.com

4.

January - February 15, 2012

Life is Sweet

By Nicole Murray, CMO, Change The Bubble Public Relations

with that calling and transform what they believe to be the reason that they have been placed on the earth into their life’s work.

The thing that separates Chef Michelle from the crowd, the very thing that makes her truly special is the fact that once she laid hold of the vision for her

C

hef Michelle Stalling’s life and work exemplify excellence. If you have ever seen or had the pleasure of tasting any of her creations you know that to be true. Although she makes it look effortless, the unforgettable, edible experiences that Chef Michelle serves up to her clients are the result of true creative inspiration, painstaking precision

and of course, excellence in every detail. From taste to texture to aesthetic appeal there are never any shortcuts.

Chef Michelle’s family has always been not only her source of support but also her inspiration.

Her father, a Vietnam veteran and her mother, both a career woman and homemaker worked for years

in corporate America. After creating a measure of success for themselves they, as a team, decided to leave their corporate jobs and launch out into the deep, hand in hand in pursuit of greater success as well as the personal gratification that comes through entrepreneurship. As with most family businesses Michelle who was eleven at the time and her two brothers, Robert and Michael, worked side by side with their parents

building their own version of the American dream. And they made it work; they built a life from that dream and created a legacy for

their children that is now being modeled before the eyes of their grandchildren.

It was in those early days at the age of fifteen that Chef Michelle first became inspired to create. One day while clamoring to be included in the hustle and bustle of the kitchen her uncle Mr. Johnny Reed, a master cake designer, gave her a cake to decorate. Unbeknownst to him or Michelle, that would be the day that a young Chef Michelle was born. It was the day that she would find her calling. There are so many examples in the world to

demonstrate that it is one thing to find one’s calling; not every individual will go the distance

life, she became firmly rooted in that vision and made it her reality. From that first day with that first cake under the watchful eyes of her uncle, she began to lay the foundation for her own American dream. She would eventually go on to own restaurants and to be called upon to cater exclusive events for clients such as ESPN, the NFL, legendary hip hop artist Snoop Dogg, music industry mogul P. Diddy, Minute Maid Park (Houston Astros), countless Houston socialites, a host of well known celebrities and many more. Chef Michelle has also given tirelessly to various charitable organizations including Texas Children’s Hospital, St. John Vianny Catholic Church, Duchesne Academy, Shrine of

the Black Madonna, The Buffalo Soldiers Museum, The Houston Children’s Museum and countless others. Her career spans twenty years of designing and with the last ten years having been marked by her inclusion of full event catering into her services.

As with every great journey, there were pit stops along the way.

Chef Michelle is also mother to three young boys, eleven year old Taylan and three year old twins, Ethan and Evan. When she became pregnant with her twins she was faced with a heart wrenching decision. Due to the high risk pregnancy she was forced to choose between closing her restaurant or continue working the grueling schedule of a busy restauranteur while risking the health of herself

and her unborn babies. Of course, she chose her family. Every mother can attest to the many unexpected changes that women undergo during pregnancy and Chef Michelle is no exception. She is often heard saying that having twins and morphing from the role of conductor in her business into full time mom-

my was a transition to which she gave herself fully but it also took its toll to have to leave her first love.

Never one to do anything halfheartedly, Chef Michelle, for a season, released herself from her own personal goals and embraced the goal of nurturing and rearing her children. The dream, however, was safely ensconced in her heart awaiting the next opportunity to emerge

bigger and better than ever. During her time away Chef Michelle took the opportunity to hone in on what she loves most, pastry development and design.

A Master Cake Decorator is nothing short of an artist and every artist desires to have their very own studio to create, show-

case and share their masterpieces with the rest of the world. As an artist Chef Michelle is no exception. While at home taking care of her children she was also artfully crafting the design for her next chapter as a chef.

Today, she is fully in the throes of launching her newest venture, All About Cakes. The new location is set to be more than a traditional bakery. It will be a true artist’s studio where customers can bring their fondest imaginations to life under the creative guidance of Chef Michelle.

January 3, 2012 was the big day.

It is the day that the doors opened on All About Cakes first location and it is the day that the next leg of Chef Michelle’s journey began in earnest.

All About Cakes is located at 13134 Dairy Ashford in Sugarland, TX and will offer not only custom designed cakes and pastries but a daily variety of deliciously decadent treats that will thrill any palate.

January - February 15, 2012

5.

6.

January - February 15, 2012

Cypresswood Estates: A “FABULOUS”

Affordable Green Community for Seniors The Only One of its Kind in the N ation!

C

“All the staff is nice. Even Matilda, she works in housekeeping, she’s very friendly.

The staff makes your heart smile.

Every morning they greet you with the positive thought of the day.

That’s what I want to wake up to every morning.”

- Millie Sharp-Lowe

ypresswood Estates is a LEED Platinum affordable senior housing development that is energy efficient, sustainable and incorporates energy efficient construction and materials. Cypresswood Estates consists of 88-units of affordable housing developed on a foreclosed parcel utilizing Neighborhood Stabilization and Protection Funds and other public and private sector monetary sources. This LEED Platinum certified affordable housing development is for active seniors living on limited incomes and provides quality, affordability, security and peace of mind. Cypresswood has set the bar high for future affordable housing development.

The Harris County Housing Authority’s non-profit affiliate (HCHA Cypresswood Estates, LLC) is the Owner and Developer of Cypresswood. The affiliate prepared funding applications, obtained funding for the development, and retained professional architects, engineers and LEED consultants to prepare the construction and bidding documents. The affiliate also conducted the solicitation of bids and awarded the contracts for construction. A construction management firm was also retained to assist with construction monitoring and they utilized in-house staff to oversee the project and the professional services.

HCHA applied for and was awarded a combination of federal grants to leverage, with private funding, a 9.973 acre tract of foreclosed land located at 15331 Kuykendahl in Northwest Harris County, Texas on which to develop Cypresswood. The purchase of land in this particular area allowed HCHA to address the affordable housing needs of the surrounding community and mitigate the negative effects of a vacant, abandoned and blighted urban parcel.

This development also met HCHA’s 5-year plan and mission to address the needs of seniors who have experienced

January - February 15, 2012

high level shortages of safe, decent, and affordable housing in Harris County.

WHY GREEN? In 2009, the federal government set an ambitious agenda of reducing energy consumption, curbing greenhouse gas emissions, and stimulating a viable green jobs sector. Achieving these goals required a unique analysis of the state of the nation’s housing stock and specifically the challenge to create green affordable housing as a means to offer the nation important fiscal, economic, and environmentally responsible gains. Congress required the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to create funding sources to develop programs to assist in halting the hemorrhage of the U.S. economy. These goals also created an opportunity to alter the future of sustainable affordable housing, specifically shifting the nation’s mindset to affordable green housing designs and lifestyles.

HCHA saw this all of this as an opportunity to set a higher affordable housing standard for Texas and the nation. Recognized as a leading pioneer among housing authorities, the HCHA strives to continually think of innovative ways to improve the quality of housing and quality of life for our residents and to provide Class “A” affordable housing options for Harris County citizens. HCHA took on the challenge of creating the most sustainable, energy efficient, and eco-friendly development while maintaining the development’s affordability. Creating this new affordable eco-friendly development brings HCHA one step closer to achieving the goals of sustainability, energy conservation and affordability in housing. Accordingly, after developing the previous seven affordable senior housing developments and tackling the needs of Harris County citizens following two heavily destructive hurricanes, HCHA was ready and well suited to address the challenge of the overwhelming shortages of energy efficient and sustainable/affordable housing. Armed with the full support of the agency’s board of commissioners, HCHA’s staff immediately sought to answer the challenge in full measure by refocusing the agency’s efforts to lead the State of Texas in building a new senior development with special emphasis on integrating LEED standards and to achieve the highest LEED certification possible. HCHA, through the creative use of public and private sector partnerships, collaborated with seasoned designers, other professionals and award winning architects ushering in a new era of excellence, eco-friendly construction techniques, and the usage of energy efficient materials to make Cypresswood Estates an affordable and sustainable development. Guy Rankin, CEO of HCHA stated “New emerging markets will need sustainable communities for the future. Creating jobs and providing housing and smart communities will lead to a

“I like the price, the newness, the beauty, and the solar panels. My electric bill is only $30, compared to the $300 I was paying every month.”

- Twila Langness

7.

8.

January - February 15, 2012

more peaceful world in the next century.”

DOING IT THE HCHA WAY The HCHA Board of Commissioners was instrumental in setting the policy for the project. The HCHA staff focused on the vision and implementation of the project and the responsibility of synchronizing a cadre of architects, construction teams and an internal team of professionals. The staff navigated a rigorous expanse of financial and programmatic related documentation required to obtain the funding and earn LEED Platinum certification for the project.

“Rankin hopes to partner and develop sustainable green communities in South America, The Middle East, Asia, and Africa.”

“It’s a fabulous place. Look around, its not only new, but innovative, clean and real sparkly.

It has a great aura and it’s such a tranquil and peaceful place. It represents what apartment living should be!”

- Byron Taylor

Far too often, affordable housing has meant living in drab, institutional buildings located far from jobs, stores, and other primary conveniences. Iinstead of using old and outdated methods, this affordable housing development followed modern, unique, and environmentally friendly design principles that incorporated sunlight to reduce energy costs, highly insulated walls, eco-friendly flooring, eco-friendly paints, energy efficient appliances/fittings/fixtures, CFL lighting and cabinets made from recycled materials all combined to make a visually pleasing development.

The program has met its overall objective by creating one of the first of its kind: a sustainable and affordable LEED Platinum housing development for seniors on a foreclosed piece of land that provides quality, affordability, security, peace of mind and it provides both the residents and the owner with lower operating costs. All of this resulted in an 88-unit LEED Platinum affordable housing development built for active seniors that is helping to transform lives.

Rankin hopes to partner and develop sustainable green communities in South America, The Middle East, Asia, and Africa.

HCHA has experienced many successes: timely successful completion of the development with high quality construction; a 30% reduction in electrical consumption attributable to the solar panels; energy efficient 15 SEER HVAC units; cellulose and Thermax building insulations and energy efficient appliances; an 80% reduction in water consumption attributable to the drip irrigation system, native landscaping, drought tolerant plants, artificial turf, water reclamation system and low-flow fixtures; reduced operating (maintenance) costs due to the energy efficient design and quality of construction and materials. By building a sustainable and energy-efficient development, the 88 proud senior families are happier, there is less resident turnover, and decreased maintenance calls due to the quality of

January - February 15, 2012

the construction materials.

Upon completion, Cypresswood Estates addressed the affordable housing needs of seniors that are living on limited income. The benefits are distinct and unique from HCHA’s previous developments in that Cypresswood Estates seeks to offer maximum affordability for its residents, while providing a wide range of amenities in an highly energy efficient and sustainable development. Residents benefit from the energy-efficient construction methods and amenities, such as the walking trails and concrete sidewalk containing a fly ash mixture, solar panels on the roofs, a water reclamation system, cellulose insulation, fresh air whole house ventilation fans, and many more green features. Each unit features the use of Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified kitchen cabinetry and wood products, as well as, the incorporation of eco-friendly construction methods that embrace buying materials within a 300 mile radius of the project’s location. In addition, all nonhazardous construction waste from Cypresswood Estates was sent to a recycler.

“New emerging markets will need sustainable communities for the future. Creating jobs and providing housing and smart communities will lead to a more peaceful world in the next century.”

Over the life of this development, the green features used at Cypresswood Estates will save money due to the property experiencing lower operating, replacement and maintenance costs. This will enable Cypresswood Estates to retain its affordability for seniors who elect to reside there.

When interviewing several of the residents who have made Cypresswood Estates their home, it was unanimous that this was the “apartment communities of senior apartment communities.” There was resounding praise not only about the brick and mortar essentials of the community but also the staff. From the maintenance man to the housekeeper, residents knew them by name and sang their praises throughout the interview. Safety was also a premium plus, the keyless entry made everyone feel more secure in their homes. Several of the residents were impressed with the activities that were planned by the Active Adult Program Coordinator such as BINGO, Friday Night at the Movies, and the awesome 2011 Christmas party where residents gathered together to celebrate the holidays and to get to know each other. One of the favorite places to gather is the coffee lounge where coffee, cappuccinos, latte’s and an occasional snack are free. Going GREEN at Cypresswood appears to be a win-win situation for everyone involved, the residents, the staff, the community, HCHA and the ecosystem!

“I moved here because it is a GREEN Eco-friendly community.

I do a lot of recycling . I think it’s very important to leave an earth that will be eco-friendly for our grandchildren.”

- Janie Canino

9.

10. January - February 15, 2012

January - February 15, 2012

Business Success – Also a State of Mind

11.

- A Year of Challenges,

Opportunity and Winning

By Pam Terry, Contributing Writer

CHRISTINA R. GROCHETT

By Christina Robinson Grochett, University of Phoenix Territory Vice President

W

omen-owned businesses employ more than 13 million people and generate $1.9 trillion in sales nationwide, according to the National Association for Women Business Owners. Like many businesses, these companies have also felt the repercussions of the slow economy.

Many women entrepreneurs will attest, the mental state of a business can go a long way in helping to weather challenging times or grow, even when other businesses are not. This often requires little or no cash investment, but pays off when employees are more motivated and loyal to the company. A positive attitude provides you with a competitive edge—no matter the industry in which you work.

Here are some recommendations to help create the right mindset for achieving entrepreneurial success in the New Year.

Be nimble, but purposeful There are many factors that affect company performance—employees, customers and the business climate are just a few. Business plans and strategies need to evolve and adapt. Flexibility can give companies an advantage, so look for ways to create a more nimble organization. However, no matter the pressure for immediate profits, do not compromise your core values. Use your company goals and core values as litmus tests for new ideas and endeavors.

Use setbacks to learn and grow Many individuals and companies are afraid to take risks because of the fear of failure. Innovative

companies often take calculated risks and look for opportunities to learn and turn weaknesses into strengths. When there are setbacks, be prepared to share what went wrong, dissect the issues and learn from the experiences. Remember, problem solving often benefits from various viewpoints.

Having an open culture where challenges are addressed head on, helps create a loyal and trusting work environment.

Be open to input Encourage employees to provide honest feedback, even if it conflicts with your opinions. Listen to the feedback and accept analysis and criticism graciously. Having an open door communication approach demonstrates your trust in the team and creates a more collaborative work environment.

Step out of your comfort zone in a strategic way Stepping out of your comfort zone into unfamiliar territory can be a good thing. It can also be unnerving, especially if it affects your employees and your company. Before launching into unfamiliar territory, make sure the idea helps you progress toward your goals, is aligned with your vision and mission and leverages your organization’s strengths. Be open in your communication with employees and make them part of the process.

Take care of yourself Growing businesses need a lot of time and attention. Many women

in business put themselves last on their priority lists. However, if you are feeling happy and healthy, it will be reflected in your business.

Be passionate Passion cannot be taught or faked.

Your enthusiasm can positively influence employees and help your business overcome challenges. If passion starts to fade, as a leader, it is important to take a step back from the stressful environment to assess and see things more clearly. Take inventory of all the reasons you started or joined the business. This should always renew your passion or help you recognize when things need to move in a different direction.

Christina Robinson Grochett is the Territory Vice President of South Texas for University of Phoenix. An accomplished leader and champion of higher learning, she was selected as one of the 2010 Women of Influence by Houston Woman Magazine and one of the Top 10 business women by the American Business Women’s Association in 2008. Under her leadership, the Houston campuses were selected as a 2009, 2010 and 2011 Best Place to Work by The Houston Business Journal and were awarded with the 2008, 2009, 2010 and 2011 Alfred P. Sloan Awards from the City of Houston for Workplace Flexibility and Innovation.

Advertise today in D-MARS D-Mars.com Business Journal Call US TODAY!

713.272.9511

It seems like 2012 has us all in heightened awareness, doesn’t it? There’s the 12/21/12 date signaling the end of the world, or some massive shift in consciousness, the end of the Mayan calendar and other predilections (a preference or special liking for something). However you look at it, 2012 has us all tuned in to something big happening by the end of the year.

It seems like a challenge. The human spirit is one that rises up to challenge. A challenge can inspire us to take that challenge on and overcome it. Well, at least for me, it does. I have always been one to be called forth by a challenge. I think it started when I was 3. The story goes that I always spilled my milk on the table.

One time at dinner as we all sat down to the table (4 children, mom and dad), Dad looked at me and said, “Now, do NOT spill your milk!” Ok, is that a challenge? Yes, it was, to me anyway.

What did I do? Reportedly, I looked my big ole’ dad straight in the eye with my finger on the rim of my glass of milk and tipped it over!!!!! I think I was in big trouble at that point. Thankfully, I don’t remember.

But, what I do know is that I love a challenge. I have often said that a great name for a cereal would be “Challenge” so that the ad jingle could be “I eat Challenge for breakfast!”

I am definitely in it to win it in 2012. I have big dreams, big goals and my key to success is big support.

There is an age old adage that problems are merely opportunities for learning. I couldn’t agree more. There are a million motivational sayings about problems and opportunities. I love them all – I am an idealist anyway so it suits me fine to turn any lemons

into lemonades because I like being positive.

But, again, it seems ironic, that I do value negative situations because they teach me what I don’t want and that’s valuable information.

I’m always in it to win it.

As each year passes, it gets more important because I’m older. At 60, I feel closer to my mortality.

I don’t move around as well as I used to. I’m officially a senior citizen. More and more people who I know and more loved ones have passed away from this physical plane. The reminders of my mortality appear more often.

These reminders spur me on to want to win it now – my dreams and my hopes.

The challenge for this year is to survive the “end” and to thrive in the process, to come out on top in some way. Being older, I am wiser and know now that the biggest obstacle is me and is always me. Hopefully, I am wise enough to surmount whatever obstacles I create for myself.

To win it, I will have created financial security for myself. My speaker coaching business will contribute the success of others worldwide. As a result, my business will have massive growth.

My contribution to Powerful Women International will cause members and communities to see great success. As a result, PWI will have massive growth too. And, I will have launched my TV network, NOWW TV – Network of What’s Working. Yes, I love the sound of all of that. More than me winning, I love it when it’s a double win, for me and others.

Pam Terry is a Speaker Coach & Trainer and Chief Operating Officer of Powerful Women International. www.pamterry.com www.powerfulwomenintl.com

12. January - February 15, 2012

January - February 15, 2012

Steps for a Smart Financial Start in 2012 planned budget is an invaluable tool if you want to improve your financial position. Here are five things you can do now to make setting and reaching your 2012 financial goals a lot easier.

By Crawford McGill Financial Advisor If you pay attention to the news, you’ve seen governments around the world struggling to balance their budget and stay afloat. Ironically, the basics of balancing the income and expenses of a country are not that different from what you do with your own finances — and it can be just as much of a challenge. But a well-

Step One: Organize your bills Start by gathering all of your monthly, quarterly and annual financial obligations. Next, look back through your check register or your bank statements and collect data of all the products and activities that drain money from your wallet. Then list and categorize these expenses. Standard categories include food, clothing, general household, transportation, entertainment and so on.

Saving for various things should be on the list too, since it takes money out of circulation, if only for the time being.

You’ll be ahead of the game if your budget accounts for “unplanned” expenses such as a visit to the emergency room (now an especially costly adventure,

thanks to high deductible medical plans) and car or home repairs. While you may not be able to name what financial burden will arise in the next 12 months, you can be sure something will cause you to part suddenly with some of your hard-earned money.

If you have cash set aside for just those occasions, then you can pay the expense and avoid a crisis. If not, you risk defaulting on other obligations, damaging your credit and causing all too much stress in your life.

Step Two: Scrutinize the numbers To create a realistic budget, examine and adjust the expenses you’ve identified above against your take-home pay. Highlight areas that are out of whack. One way to evaluate the numbers is to break down your budget categories by percentages. Ideally, your housing costs should not exceed 30%; transportation expenses should not exceed 20%; and food should fall

under 15% of your total expenses.

Look online for guidelines and see where your spending exceeds recommendations.

Step Three: Fix what you don’t like To change your financial reality, set realistic and stretch goals that will improve your bottom line. When you identify a target — for example, to trim $100 from your monthly food budget — break it down. What does this mean for you on a daily or weekly basis? Maybe you need to buy items in bulk, purchase off-brand, clip more coupons or employ some other cost-saving strategy. Be creative and rise to the challenge.

If it’s clear you don’t have sufficient money coming in each month, consider ways to up your income. Do you need to work overtime, go after that promotion, pursue a new career or get a second job? If you’re stuck where you are, circle back to your spending habits. You may need to downsize your house or car, stop eating out or cut up your credit cards. You’ll be pleasantly surprised by the ideas you generate when you take the time to examine the numbers with a clear head and a critical eye.

Step Four: Follow your budget There’s no point in making a budget if you don’t intend to act on it. Keep your budget in front of you and document your

13.

expenses on a daily basis. Then adjust your spending as necessary.

Monitoring your budget this way can make your money more manageable and give you the feeling of being in control.

Step Five: Check in with a financial advisor There are books and websites that can teach you the finer points for preparing and following a budget. But there’s nothing quite like being in the presence of someone who can share their financial knowledge. Consult a financial advisor for an honest assessment of your financial health and take advantage of insights and strategies that can help you improve your finances in 2012 and beyond.

Crawford “Mickey” McGill, CFP©, CRPR©, AAMS©, Business Financial Advisor, Associate Vice President is licensed/registered to do business with U.S. residents only in the states of TX, NV, AZ, PA, GA, CO, MN, LA, MO, CA, FL, NC, NY, DE, IN, VA, IL, MD, DC, KS. For more information, please visit my website at www.ameripriseadvisors.com/crawford.m.mcgill Brokerage, investment and financial advisory services are made available through Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA and SIPC. Some products and services may not be available in all jurisdictions or to all clients. © 2011 Ameriprise Financial, Inc. All rights reserved. File # 126758

14. January - February 15, 2012

A Mother’s L ve Changes a Community

L

ove often compels us to respond to an unfortunate situation. Mrs. Theaola Robinson has an acute love for the Fifth Ward community and its children. Her response to a personal tragedy was Benji’s Special Educational Academy (BSEA), a Fifth Ward icon for almost 30 years. The spirit of BSEA was reminiscent of a time before desegregation when a community raised its children. All children were housed in the same school building regardless of their “exceptionality” and expected to perform at their highest level of proficiency because a race of people depended on them to do so.

It was a time when children were considered much more than a test score, but little people that bore the hope of a better tomorrow for their community and the vehicle for that hope was education.

Nelson Mandela said “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” In 1981, BSEA started a world changing experience for disenfranchised children in the Fifth Ward community by bringing value to a specialized population that was often ignored by the existing educational community.

Missing from its unfortunate closure in 2010 was an accurate account of BSEA’s intent for the school and its dreams for the community it serves. We have provided a historical response from BSEA in celebration of the lives that were changed as a result of one woman’s efforts to provide a better life for her child.

THE HISTORY

In 1981, because of the frustration of a lack of resources and wanting to educate her son, Theaola Robinson founded the

first child care center for special needs children in the Fifth Ward disadvantaged community. The school provided services to children from infancy through thirteen years of age and was called Benji’s Special Educational Academy. The school was named after her son Benjajuain, affectionally known as “Benjie.” At the age of three Benjie was diagnosed with moderate brain damages after an accidental fall he sustained.

Mrs. Robinson became frustrated when she discovered that no local school existed with specialized staff that could provide the individualized attention necessary for her challenged son, to excel.

She has dedicated and committed her life to providing educational and innovative programs for special needs and underprivileged children and youth.

For many years special needs individuals were isolated, aban-

doned, hidden in dark rooms away from the public, treated less than humane, and rejected by their families and society. They were not given the opportunity to become achievers or productive citizens. The words “slow, retarded, handicapped and non-achiever” has plagued and tormented these individuals for many years. Bullying is also prevalent for children

with disabilities. Mrs. Robinson stated “As a mother of a special needs child, I’ve experienced the abuse, the pains, the heartaches, and the isolation; so I shielded my son and myself from other people because of the stigma of not being accepted.” Mrs. Robinson also stated “I cried many tears when my son was made fun of, bullied, teased to tears and used as the object of a joke and tormented. I promised my son that with God’s help and that of his siblings, we would make a difference in his life and we did, leaving a legacy of serving the Fifth Ward community for almost 30 years with Benji’s Special Educational Academy.

Benji’s Special Educational Training Center P.O. Box 21189 Houston, Texas 770226 (832) 250.4444 | benji@wt.net

up. After being in the building for six months, Mrs. Robinson and her oldest son worked night and day to revive the old building that improved the Jensen Drive corridor; as a matter of fact Benji’s Academy was the first improvement on Jensen Drive. Mrs. Robinson used her own personal funds from her late husband and turned the old building into a thriving school as it is today that has served over 7,000 children since its inception.

BENJIE’S SUCCESS STORY

Benjie has worked at the Academy since he was 18 years of age as the percussionist director. He has succeeded to become

a very productive young man and one of Houston’s most successful percussionists. He is a graduate of MacArthur High School, the percussionist at his church for thirteen years and was the percussionist director at Benji’s Academy.

He has trained many students to become great percussionist. He is very proud of Mr. Phillip Parker who was his first student. Phillip is now a percussionist at his school and plays with the Conrad Johnson band. Mrs. Robinson’s mantra is, “If Benjie can be successful; many other children can be successful as well.” The school was organized as a result of a devastating life changing event for a young mother and her son and as a result a greater cause was born that has helped heal the “hurting of humanity” by serving youth with disabilities.

BSEA GETS A NEW HOME

In 1993, Mayor Bob Lanier and his administration awarded the old dilapidated building to Mrs. Robinson to house her special needs Child Care Center leaving 32,000 square feet boarded

Under Mrs. Robinson’s leadership from 1981-2010, she implemented the following innovative classes and programs for children with disabilities and underprivileged children: • 2 Outdoor Playgrounds for Physical Education • Community Track and Field with covering • 3 Computer Labs (Pre-school12th grade) • 2 Libraries • Speech & Theatrical Arts • Benji’s Jazz Ensemble and Concert Band • English Bell Choir, The CEO Choir (4th grade students) and high school choir • Broad Band Campus Radio • Photography Studio • Protools, Sound and Recording Studio • Multimedia & Desktop Publishing • Disc-Jockeying • Mrs. Robinson also implemented Technology across the Curriculum.

• There was a Culinary Arts program with a professional cafeteria with round tables, decorative linen on the tables and a state of the art certified commercial kitchen • Mirrored Physical Fitness room and gym • Health and Wellness Center for students and community • Foreign Language (Rosetta Stone) • Construction Technology • Commercial Designing • Cad & Drafting • Debate Team & Student Government • Benji’s Academy girls and

boy’s Basketball, Track and Field, Praise Dancers and Step Teams.

• To keep the staff abreast with the educational changes Robinson implemented coteaching for elementary and middle school students.

• From 2001-2010 Robinson ensured that all staff received one week of professional development through her Summer Planning Academy.

• Benji’s took other supportive and incentives measures to help keep students in school; students were engaged in prescriptive learning programs.

• BSEA provided a positive relationship with a caring adult mentor for students individually and in groups; by teachers, other school staff, for returning high school and college students, members of the community; in and outside of the school.

• BSEA provided “Advisories,” used as an alternative to regular homeroom periods that included small supportive groups led by school staff that developed a personal relationship with students.

• Before and After School, Saturday Tutorial, GED Pathway 2 Change program • Robinson developed small learning communities, in which students sharing the same cadre of core-subject teachers were taught in a more personalized environment.

This improved student-teacher relationships and they began to feel that their teachers knew and cared about them.

THE ORGANIZATION’S FOUNDATIONAL BELEIFS

January - February 15, 2012

Impact Statement Benji’s Special Educational Academy is built on values, excellence, flexibility, accountability, trust, integrity, professionalism, honesty, loyalty, love, patience, truthfulness, and we provide educational opportunities to allow others to reach phenomenal

heights putting all trust in the divine maker as the cornerstone of our work.

Mission To create unique educational environments built on sound research, qualified instruction, and a community of learning that foster academic excellence, instill a love of active learning, compassion, healing, facilitate education, empowerment and provide experiences that enable all students to acquire a foundation of skills for lifelong achievement… increasing value to our students, families, our shareholders, and our employees.

Vision It is the vision of BSEA that all students will become productive citizens and not the responsibility of the state. We believe that through our combined efforts the sustained success patterns in early life build self-esteem and reinforce positive characteristics that will build incrementally throughout their lives. Therefore, we create a momentum that is expressed in our motto “If a child cannot learn the way we teach, we will teach the way he/she learns”.

Goal It is the goal of BSEA that through the concepts of socialization and motivation, each student will adhere to academic and behavior standards which will result in: improved academic achievement, a safe, secure and disciplined learning environment, and involvement of external stakeholders in the educational process.

Objective To assist in the development, education, motivation, stimulation and cultivation of the minds of each student to reach his/her fullest potential and to become a productive citizens in life.

To implement opportunities for challenged youth to excel as skilled individuals.

To educate, encourage, and inspire students to become entrepreneurs within their communities through the development of inherent or intrinsic skills.

W

To build self-esteem and to give each student the encouragement to “Strive for Excellence”.

e believe excellence is derived from knowledge, hard work and innovation.

Philosophy Education is the most essential need in youth development.

Without a sound foundation, children and young adults are more at risk for dropping out of school, not being successful at completing a bachelor’s degree or even a two year college degree.

Therefore, it is our philosophy and responsibility to create promising opportunities where they can learn adequately and become active and productive citizens.

It is also our philosophy to provide a comprehensive program of studies and activities to aid each student in the maturity of social, physical, and emotional excellence, in a safe and healthy environment.

W

Benji’s Academy curriculum allows students individual interests and needs to be nurtured. Benji’s Special Educational Academy believes that the future of our country depends upon the education of all children. Students are taught values which foster reverence and respect for the rights of others, the authority of the law, self-reliance, honesty, initiative, industry, commitment and to strive for excellence. It is our belief that each student will be prepared to meet the challenges of the world after their educational journey at Benji’s Academy.

Core Values

W

e believe that our program improves each child’s need for security, affection, and recognition as well as their need to feel worthy as an individual.

W

e believe that with the cooperation of caregivers and the community we can improve our American way of life.

W

e believe that the function of education is to provide for the continual development and growth of every individual to the fullest extent of his/her abilities.

W

e hold true the belief of helping to heal the hurting of humanity by providing care with compassion is essential.

W

e are committed to the education of all children and we hold strongly the value of the education of challenging individuals to become productive citizens and advocates for justice.

e strive for financial viability. It is necessary and requires control and individual responsibility.

On September 13, 2010, the school was closed by Texas Education Agency and a stateappointed Board of Managers for Benji’s Special Education Academy Charter School. As reported by local media, “A state-appointed Board of Managers for Benji’s Special Education Academy, Inc. in Houston” (and the TEA staff met for one hour and forty-five minutes with no input from the parents, Benji’s Board of Directors or staff.) determined that the school is no longer financially viable and voted to close it.”

This unfortunate occurrence marred the history of the school.

It is the present day opinion of its founder, supporters and various local politicians that this drastic measure was unwarranted. The legal proceedings disclosed that there was neither legal nor any financial crisis justifying rational basis for immediate closure of the school. The school has been through many tough times over the years but had somehow managed to not only persist but to build a $1 million asset base for children and youth in the constant face of the same or worse financial conditions that confronted the TEA managers in September 2010. The founder emphasizes that no creditor or lien holder was threatening to disrupt the orderly operation of the school.

It is their belief that any financial woes experienced by BSEA were redeemable and given the opportunity to do so and funding reimbursements were timely; the school would have been able to return to its normal operations. Even this major roadblock has not deterred Mrs. Robinson; love compels her to continue her quest to educate children in the Fifth Ward community. It’s her passion to do so.

The Future:

BENJI’S SPECIAL EDUCATIONAL e honor the intrinsic value TRAINING CENTER

W

of all people and believe inclusiveness is strength.

W W

e strive for fairness and equality for our students.

e provide youth a voice that is often a personal healing experience as well as a chance to be an advocate for others.

Children and BSEA are a treasure to Mrs. Robinson. There were never police officers on the campus; for the fourteen years Mrs. Robinson managed the campus. The children respected the founder and the opportunity to be a part of BSEA. The same love that compelled her to

start the school was freely given to all its participants. She is affectionally known as “Mama” or “Granny” by all of her students, simply because BSEA was built on the tenets that create a family atmosphere: unconditional love, support, and the expectation to succeed.

With the support of Mr. Richard Johnson, Mr. Walter Gill, Attorney’s Berry Bowen, Robert Jones and four former employees Mrs. Robinson plans to reopen Benji’s Special Educational Training Center in 2012. Students age 16-34 will be able to achieve necessary basic life skills for personal growth development. Returning dropouts, people with disabilities and veterans will have the opportunity to become successful citizens and employable through this new program.

The new Benji’s Special Education Training Center will offer: • GED Classes • Computer Lab • A Multimedia Lab • Photography • Desktop Publishing and Editing • Recording and Sound Production • Rosetta Stone Foreign Language • Business Etiquette • Culinary Arts, Catering, Hospitality & Food Service

15.

• Elderly Care • Child Care • Character and Moral Development MR. D-MARS and Mrs. Robinson are having a conversa-

tion about the history of Benji’s Special Education Academy.

This quote is at the heart of Mrs. Robinson’s life purpose: “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?’” Theaola Robinson has lived a life of “doing for others” by educating the uneducable.

Her goal is to truly “leave no child behind” because of their geography or exceptionality. For more information on supporting Benji’s Academy, please contact her at 832-250-4444.

Thank you.

Respectfully Theaola Robinson Administrative Staff Board of Directors

Words of Encouragement to Single Parents of Special Needs Children

O

Our world is vast and God created it that way. It really is a rainbow of colors, genders, nationalities, religions, beliefs and special individuals who are the most lovable creatures that God created. They see no differences, just love. They think no evil, just love, they meet no

strangers, just love, and they give of themselves through love.

To mothers of special needs children, never give up on your child or your dreams for them.

Just watch their eyes, their hugs, their smiles, feel their touch, their kisses, and the rhythm of their heart beats!!!! It echoes their inner prayer, “I can be productive just give me a chance.”

Without special people our world would fail. They keep love flowing from heart to heart for this is the will of God. So mothers “don’t give up. Help is on the way and available to you.” Stay, fight for their justice, support, and stand firm in your beliefs for them. Put on the whole armor of God and stand for them.

They can be productive for “love compels them to go all the way.”

Theaola Robinson.

Open the Door I can be successful.

16. January - February 15, 2012

January - February 15, 2012

The Vita Doc…

Keeping your Employees Healthy in the New Year

By Tamyra Comeaux, Contributing Writer

and vegetables. ORAC stands for Oxygen Radical Absorbency Capacity. This standard has been adopted by the US Department of Agriculture, and has come to be accepted as some kind of “official” standard. ORAC values measure the time an antioxidant takes to react to free radicals, as well as the amount of antioxidants in the specific food. It combines these elements into one measurement.

Total physical and emotional wellness is essential to maintaining optimal health and increasing longevity. I offer wellness coaching as well as weight loss counseling. It is important to see the bigger picture and take care of the total you. Losing weight is not just about looking good, but feeling great as well.

Initial wellness assessment may include

I

In today’s fast-paced society filled with advanced technology, food and drug companies are constantly discovering new ways to appease the consumer on- the- go and those that need a “quick fix.”

Unfortunately, most of the products produced lack key nutrients and vitamins that aide in optimal physical and mental health. Over the last two decades, more people have been side lined by the onset of serious illnesses, diseases, and severe emotional impairments. Ironically, the onset of such calamity is not caused solely by the reported lack of adequate and available healthcare, but the food that we ingest, the air that we breathe and the impurities that we constantly shove into our bodies through drugs and other chemical based supplements.

In order to recharge and reclaim our bodies, it is important to maintain optimal health and utilize products and supplements that are made of natural herbal ingredients. Natural Herbs have been used for centuries to treat medical and mental health concerns. In present day, herbs and other natural ingredients are used in conjunction with prescription medications in order to enhance the healing process. Natural supplements are produced in the

form of capsules, teas, tablets, powders and creams that possess various therapeutic properties.

I love to travel abroad searching for ways to educate myself on how to effectively treat my patients and offer them a better quality of life and longevity. I found it fascinating that practitioners in China and Germany write prescriptions for herbal combinations. I have traveled to Europe, Asia, Central, and South America and discovered that native fruits and herbs are being used to treat many ailments. As a medical health professional, I not only believe in the power of Western medicine, but I am also an advocate for keeping our bodies healthy by optimizing natural herbs and ingredients to aide in healing the body. I am an Obstetrician and Gynecologist (Morehouse School of Medicine in Atlanta Georgia) with a Master’s Degree in Holistic Nutrition and a Naturopathic Medical Degree. I seek and create the most comprehensive vitamin and herbal formulas designed to optimize health and balance for not only my female patients, but male consumers as well. I am a firm believer that Vitamins help protect the body from diseases and illnesses. Supplements offer added “insurance” that is needed especially in those who do not eat

a healthy, balanced diet.

Maintaining a Healthy Work Environment I spend countless hours researching and developing the safest, healthy, and effective methods of producing natural supplements to ensure that my patients and staff maintain optimal health naturally. To ensure the efficacy and safety of my products, I along with friends, family, and staff thoroughly test these products personally. My products are safe and effective. Several of my products have undergone the ORAC Value Test.

As an employer, I not only care about my staffs work ethic, but I value their health and wellbeing. In order to maintain a safe and healthy work environment, you should take an interest in your staff ’s health. Supporting a healthy work environment reduces the frequency of employee “sick days.” It is no secret that a happy and healthy employee is a loyal and productive employee. I offer wellness counseling and product education to businesses of sizes.

The Importance of ORAC Value Testing ORAC Values are the most common standard of measuring the antioxidant capacity of fruits

• Comprehensive HealthQuest evaluation of systems • Initial office visit with the doctor to customize your wellness program • Optimal eating cookbook and counseling (Detox and Pregnancy editions) • Vitamin and mineral counseling • Comprehensive blood tests • Food Pharmacy evaluation helps you avoid foods that aggravate certain conditions • B12/Lipovite injection (for energy) • Food allergy assessment as needed Weight Loss Counseling/ Beta HCG Diet I offer several weight loss methods that are tailored to your individual needs. The most sought after and effective diet is the Beta HGC diet. The Beta HCG diet is a physician supervised diet program that will render optimum results. My staff and I have participated in this program and we continue to look fabulous and feel great!

Because HCG is natural, it does not interact with many medications. HCG works to re‐ program your body to use stored fat for energy when calories are reduced for some period of time.

So, it helps you maintain the weight you have lost. Many will not regain the weight.

You will see a large weight loss during the first month, and then you will lose a small amount the second month. This is called reaching “plateau”. The inches will continue to fall off while you continue to lose weight the next month. The program can be repeated after a break of 6 weeks until desired ideal body weight is achieved.

17.

Additional Weight Loss Methods • Weight loss injections • Acai detox • Parasite and yeast detox • Herbal fatburner Customized Eating Program The goals of our customized Eating Programs are to provide increased energy levels, weight loss through decreased body fat, normalizing blood pressure, cholesterol and triglyceride levels, improving insulin and glycohemoglobin levels, and burning stored body fat rather than incoming carbohydrates for energy.

The customized Optimal Eating Program is not a diet; it’s a way of life. A balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fats and oils is essential for optimal health and vitality. We believe if you desire a life of health and wellness, you must first discard your old habits and replace them with healthy lifestyle changes. It is also helpful to learn to eat in a way to keep your thyroid pancreas, adrenal, liver and kidney functioning properly.

How to Supplement your Income the Natural Way As an advocate for promoting natural methods of health and healing, I believe in sharing my knowledge and products with the world. I offer businesses, churches, organizations, and entrepreneurs a change to become a part of the natural healing crusade by becoming a distributor.

You not only have the opportunity to help people feel and look better along with weight loss naturally, but also, you can earn extra revenue. Please call Natural Women’s Health Care at 832237-4200 for more information.

These products can be obtained by contacting my office and ordering from my website. For your convenience, some products are available through Amazon.com and or Ebay.

For more information on the Beta HCG diet and additional services offered by Natural Women’s Care, please visit my You Tube channel (Natural Women’s Care). I share delicious healthy recipes and educate you on maintaining that fabulous new you for the New Year!

Dr. Tamyra Comeaux Natural Women’s Health Care 11811 FM 1960 Suite 104 Houston, TX 77065 Ph: 832.237.4200 Email: info@naturalwomenscare.com www.naturalwomenscare.com Blog: www.naturalwomenscare. blogspot.com Join me on Facebook at “Natural Women’s Care”

18. January - February 15, 2012

January - February 15, 2012

Beyond the Scope of Your Eyes

By Noel Pinnock, B.S., M.P.A., C.A., CCC, Contributing Writer According to Dictionary. com, the noun tense of “limit” is defined as the final, utmost, or furthest boundary or point as to extent, amount, continuance, or procedure, while the verb tense of the word can be interpreted as to confine or keep within limits.

Whether verb or noun, the word “limit” connotes restraint and should be a word that we immediately remove from our lexicon because on the journey called “life” there are no limits that should impede our ability to have vision, dream, and achieve. In the

36th D-Mars Business Journal, The Sky is the Limit, I wrote: “Invariably, we will encounter the valleys in life that push us to think harder, do more, and become more but it is in the fundamental belief that we exist to persevere and to be of good courage that propel us to unfathomable heights. The sky is the limit when you know that our opportunities for advancement are limitless when you know who you are because you are somebody and more importantly, you are a child of the most high!”

With that said, we know that there is no limit that anyone can impose on us other than the limits we impose on ourselves.

In business and career, there will always be someone or something that will serve to impede your efforts to be a better parent, coworker, spouse, friend, etc. In the race of life, we must keep our vision beyond the scope of our eyes. It is easy to maintain a myopic perspective but I challenge you to open your horizon and envision a world without stop-

lights and stop signs.

I was watching the biopic documentary of Grammy® award artist Dwayne Michael Carter, Jr. better known as Lil-Wayne on MTV3®. I was intrigued at his story not because it was much like many artists that rose to stellar fame despite the horrid conditions in the struggle to the top but because of his commitment to excel in the industry of which very few artists are able to maintain prudent levels of sanity, connectedness, and incredible amount of foresight. You see, at the age of nine, Mr. Carter decided on a goal and chartered a path to success. Whether critics like it or not, his commitment triumphed over trouble and the infamous “no” and called it as he saw it. He did not let anyone dictate his fate; instead, he declared himself the best rapper alive and is currently referred to as the best rapper alive today. In fact, he just recently signed one of the highest grossing contracts ever executed in rap’s history (Source: Mediatakeout. com). Rhetorically I pose: how is

that for bling bling? Mr. Carter knew then what we should know now that: − For every accomplishment, there is a price to pay − For every goal, there is an opponent to beat − For every victory, there is a problem to solve − For every triumph, there is a SACRIFICE to make I can remember when I was seeking to publish my books, Seven Spiritual Conformities and Had it not Been for Him, both spiritual in nature. Therefore, I solicited support from pastors and publishing companies locally and around the world. I literally sent copies of the manuscripts for their review in hopes that they would help point me in a direction because the cost of publishing an unknown author is down right expensive and without a literary agent, getting in those circles is like breaching the doors in Fort Knox. Needless to say, I continued praying and never saw my

19.

books unpublished. I always saw them in bookstores and available in online outlets. I continued to look beyond the scope of my eyes and walked by faith. Eventually, I would go on to publish both books one year apart from each other. My God-given vision was transformed into reality and now both books are available in some bookstores, my website www.noelpinnock.com, and online Barnes and Noble as well as other online book distributors.

You see, the bling in our life might not be as sensational as Mr. Carter or being published, but you can best believe that once you begin to look and explore life beyond the scope of your eyes an entirely different world appears. A world where boundaries are stairsteps and promised accomplishment, goal, victory, and triumph are only steps away. Remember, if you can see it, then speak it into existence, the bible refers to it as faith, Romans 4:17: “…call those things that be not as though they are!”

Keep looking beyond the scope of your eyes - NAP

Advertise today in D-MARS D-Mars.com Business Journal

Call Us Today!

713.272.9511

20. January - February 15, 2012

Smart Women And The Tug of Transition

The first step you need to take for all the others to work, is to give yourself permission that it’s ok for you to think about doing something new and different. Change can be both scary and exciting at the same time. Open your mind to what might be possible. Remember this is an exploration.

You aren’t making a decision–yet.

By Joy Chudacoff , Contributing Wrtier

Block Out Some Time

R

ecently, I attended a surprise 50th birthday party for a good friend from college. I had a fantastic time reconnecting with old friends and discovering new ones as well. One of the biggest Aha’s for me during the weekend festivities was the realization that most of my time is spent with entrepreneurs—people who have made the jump to self-employment and choosing to do it their way.

Many of the people I spent time with at this weekend event were employed by someone else. The topic of conversation was quite different for me yet it was illuminating to learn and see life from their perspective.

One woman, in particular, shared that she’s ready to make the leap to do something different but she’s unsure how to move ahead or what the process would be to make a good decision. She feels the “tug of transition” but lacks clarity on how to navigate a potential new path. Fear and

feelings of failure are on her mind as well.

She’s certain that if she could take initial steps forward on how to explore and discover what’s next, fear and thoughts of failure could be overcome. Not having a plan or the equivalent of a roadmap that can be easily followed is what keeps her from moving ahead.

Have you ever felt this way? I know I have. Before I made the decision to begin my journey as an entrepreneur, I had sleepless nights and perplexing days wondering what could possibly be next for me.

If you are feeling that change is on the horizon, but you can’t clearly see the path ahead, here are some basic and easy steps you can take to feel more confident and clear about the possibilities:

1

Give Yourself Permission to Explore

2

Pull out your calendar and block out time to do this exploration. At the party, the woman asked me, “What should I do with the time?” Online research, read books or publications on the subject, attend a class or workshop. For example, if you are interested in event planning, take some time to research online, read books or publications devoted to the industry. Before I made the decision to get my coaching certification, I researched the industry to learn more. If you don’t actually block the time and make an appointment with yourself, your “to-do” list will get in the way and before you know it, another 6 months will have gone by.

3

Reach Out Make a point to connect with people who are doing what it is you’re considering.

During my exploration, I connected with several coaches that I respect to learn more

about their business, how they got started, what their business was like, etc.

4

Consider Hiring a Coach Having a supportive person to walk with you through this exploratory phase can be extremely helpful. Having someone to ask the right questions to illuminate new possibilities or reframe your current situation is invaluable.

Summer is the perfect time to go exploring. I invite you to discover what might be next for you. The journey begins by taking the first step.

Anything is possible. Everything is waiting for you. © 2011 Joy Chudacoff Joy Chudacoff, ICF, PCC, is the founder of Smart Women Smart Solutions®, a Professional Certified Coach to 1000’s of women, Motivational Speaker, and Entrepreneur. She publishes a weekly buzz generating ezine, Reflections On Life and Business for Women Entrepreneurs. If you’re ready take your life and your business to the next level, get your FREE Tips, FREE Report and FREE MP3 now at Profits With Passion [1].

Advertise today in D-MARS D-Mars.com Business Journal

Call Us Today!

713.272.9511

Dr. Wyatt Making a Difference in Our Community

Dr. Anjanette Wyatt is the Pharmacy Manager, President and Chief Executive Officer of Clinical Care Pharmacy. She also serves as Consultant Pharmacist for the Mother of Many Children’s Home in Houston, Texas. Dr. Wyatt obtained her Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy and Doctor of Pharmacy degrees from Texas Southern University (TSU), College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences. She also has a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Biology from the University of Texas at Austin.

Dr. Wyatt is a member of Association of Black Health System Pharmacist (ABHP), American Society of Health System Pharmacy (ASHP), National Pharmaceutical Association (NPhA), National Association

of Professional Women (NAPW), Gulf Coast Society of Health-System Pharmacists (GCSHP), Houston Area Pharmacy Association (HAPA), Lake Houston Pharmacy Association (LHPA), Houston Speakers Bureau, Kappa Psi Pharmaceutical Fraternity, and the Texas Pharmacy Association (TPA). Her leadership experience has included serving on the Board of Directors of GCSHP, NPhA, ABHP and as President, Director and Executive Director of the TSU Pharmacy and Health Science Alumni Association. Dr. Wyatt has received numerous awards including the Lemon Award, Outstanding Young American Award, the TSU Dean Service Award, and the TSU National Alumni Membership Development Award.

Dr. Wyatt recently formed Clinical Intervention Inc., a non-profit organization that focuses on health care issues that affect the elderly and children. Through Clinical Intervention, Dr. Wyatt speaks to school aged children all of the State of Texas about the dangers of prescription drug abuse. She was recognized by the National Association of Professional Women in Business and received the 2011 Woman of the Year Award

in Houston Texas. Dr. Wyatt was also honored by the Texas Women’s Empowerment Foundation (TWEF) as one of the leading National Business and Community Woman in Houston Texas. In 2011 Dr. Wyatt founded the Texas Association of Independent Pharmacy Owners, an organization that focuses on the health care need of the community and the preservation of the Independent Pharmacist. She currently serves as the President of TAIPO. Dr. Wyatt was selected to participate in the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program which is a 25 Million Dollar initiative and a collaboration between the City of Houston, Mayor Anise Parker, Houston Community College and Babson College. The program has allowed Dr. Wyatt to expand her pharmacy services and hire new employees through Mayor Parkers Hire Houston First Plan.

As a health care provider, Dr. Wyatt is extremely concerned about the number of African American women who are faced with hormonal related cancers (i.e. Breast Cancer) at an early age. When she discovered that more than five of her close friends were battling this type of cancer, she realized that this

issue should be a priority for all health care organizations. In particular, she believes we need to focus on increasing the number of African American clinical trial participants.

“Educational awareness and clinical trial financial incentives are key components to increasing the enrollment of African American participants,” states Dr. Wyatt.

“Also, we need to focus on increasing the participation of African American health care providers in professional organizations.

Many times our communities are faced with health care crisis that warrants our attention.

It is imperative that we are available to help and assist our own people.”

Seven out of ten African Americans (69%) say there are not enough stories and information about the health and medical conditions that most concern Blacks. African American health care organizations should form an alliance to collaborate on programs that could increase our visibility and impact the health disparities in our community.

For more information about seminars or a local Independent Pharmacy in your area, please call Dr. Wyatt or Sherri at 281-8887527 or e-mail to taipounite@aol.com.

January - February 15, 2012

Ultimate Touch Beauty Salon:

O

ver thirty years ago, Shirley Carter-Williams decided to pursue her passion of becoming an entrepreneur in the beauty industry.

“After experiencing the economic downfall of the oil bust”, I decided I wanted financial freedom. I wanted to use my talents to help others realize their full beauty potential. “I also wanted to use my position as an entrepreneur to be a role model for African-American females in the area.” Shirley fulfilled her dream when she opened her own salon, Ultimate Touch Beauty Salon, in 1987. However, her dream was almost derailed when Hurricane Ike destroyed the salon in 2008. “I was devastated, but with diligence and dedication we rebuilt a bigger and better salon nestled in the AfricanAmerican community of the northeast side of Houston.”

Ultimate Touch Beauty Salon unveiled its big makeover on April 13, 2011. The new salon now boasts dedicated areas for facials, massages, nails, and spa parties for adults, teens, and children. “We seek to

continue to provide the very best in the latest innovative hair care, skin care, nail care services, and massage therapy.” With over forty-five years of experience combined, the salon has well-educated, talented, and cutting-edge team members. “Our team truly knows their craft and our goal is to provide you with the best beauty, health, and wellness services available.”

Ultimate Touch Beauty Salon offers an affordable, convenient, fun, and stressrelieving environment. The salon offers an upscale and customized experience at an affordable price. Inspiring, passionate, and purpose driven: Shirley Carter-Williams is living her dream and enhancing the selfimage of people in her community. She encourages you to “Let the Ultimate Touch experience enhance your quality of life.

Come by and allow us to pamper you! Be good to yourself, you deserve it.”

Ultimate Touch Beauty Salon

10236 Hirsch Rd. Houston, TX 77016 713-635-1943 www.ultimatetouchbeauty.com

21.

22. January - February 15, 2012

Multi-level Marketing Anyone?

By Sharon C. Jenkins, www.sharoncjenkins.com

This country was founded on entrepreneurialism and we are returning to it. The future of employment is self- employment.

Direct selling is one of the few business opportunities that offer average people with above average ambition a way to achieve an above average lifestyle, peace of mind and financial security.

- Darren Hardy, Publisher of SUCCESS magazine

F

or over 31 years Houstonian Gail Mathis, Ardyss Platinum President, has been doing multi-level marketing.

It is not a get rich quick scheme, but an opportunity for anyone: male or female, to live the lifestyle that they could only dream about.

Mathis has put her pedal to the metal in every MLM business she has participated in because she understood what it takes to achieve results: hard work and determination. Celebrating her successes and learning from her mistakes equipped her to recognize the right opportunity when it came around, Ardyss International. She attributes her six figure

success in only five short months with this company to her perseverance, patience, and a genuine love for people. She does this all from the comfort of her home, no rush hour traffic, parking lot blues, or road rage.

Our present day economy has forced thousands of people to revisit the multi-level marketing opportunity and Ardyss International offers one of the best compensation plans in the world. The company offers a host of different products such as men and women body shapers and personal care and nutritional items. Mathis says participating in multi-level marketing gives you “time freedom, lifestyle freedom, and fi-

nancial freedom. Improving the quality of your present lifestyle and equipping you to leave a legacy for your children’s children.”

She stated that “People don’t understand the liberating power of network marketing.” Many are introduced to the MLM opportunity, but they either “do not see the opportunity or seize the opportunity” when it is presented.

Like it or not starting a MLM is the most cost effective way to start a business in a downtrodden economy. The product or service usually meets a current societal need or was established to meet an anticipated want. The founders have done the research necessary to establish market relevance and developed a public relations campaign in support of it.

There’s usually no product development or storage costs, because the product has already been manufactured and can be purchased from a distribution point and shipped directly to the customer. Your initial investment is

usually a small administration fee for membership, training, promotional materials and a product sample to show to potential customers. There are no start-up capital investments because you can work from your own home.

Starting a MLM gives you the leverage to build a business that will allow you to live your dreams without the headache of doing a business plan or pursuing a loan from a bank.

Tory Johnson, workplace contributor on ABC Good Morning America says: “So who’s building a business through network marketing? Married couples growing an emergency fund or saving for a major purchase. Budding entrepreneurs and lifelong entrepreneurs (franchisees and small-business owners) who like to call their own shots.

Semi- retired seniors who miss workplace interaction.

Homemakers who need flex-

ible work schedule so the can attend soccer matches and recitals.”1 Everyday average people with a dream to live beyond “just getting by” are opting to start a MLM. In 2012 perhaps you may need to “carpe diem” and give multi-leveling marketing a second look. For more information about the Ardyss opportunity contact Gail Mathis at 832-2949262. Remember in any business endeavor MLM, sole proprietorship, partnership, etc., you alone are the catalyst that generates change in your life, your industry, and in the lives of those you bring along with you. David McConnell of Avon, Mary Kay Ash, and Gail Mathis knew that and equipped numerous others to make their dreams come true.

January - February 15, 2012

23.

Are You Ready To Win! the positive “results- oriented” fruits of your goal-setting labor.

Having direction is a great way to start the year, however are you tired of creating goals that you forget after a few weeks?

Here are five tips to help you.

1.

By Dr. Wendy, Contributing Writer www.drwendyjohnson.com It’s the start of a new year and people make resolutions, things they vow to do or not do during the coming year. These resolutions typically range from saving money, losing weight, joining a group, changing a behavior, getting a job, or some other major achievement. People typically set goals so they can change the direction of their lives.

It is possible to do what you want, but to make it happen; you must create a solid “realistic” measurable plan. This lets you see

BE WILLING TO CHANGE To accomplish any goal, you have to change something. This can range from your attitude, the way you talk or respond to people, and maybe even the way you dress. You have to accept the personal changes that will transform your life to what you want it to be. Remember that you can’t keep doing the same thing and expect different results. If you’re focused and ready to make a change, you can do it.

2.

CREATE REALISTIC GOALS

“Realistic” is what matters. These include old behaviors you are willing to change if you expect to reach or stop doing something you know isn’t good for you.

Don’t include the fluff things that just sound good. Now put that list where you will see it every day: on your computer, on the bathroom mirror, where you’ll see it as you leave your room or the house.

This should keep these goals in your face and on your mind. In fact, you’ll be motivated to reach them so you don’t have to see that note anymore!

improve if you take your time and properly plan for the project.

Having someone work on the same thing can help. .

3.

4.

FIND A BUDDY If your goal allows it, include someone who needs to make the same change. Maybe you like working under pressure and start working on projects right before they are due. If someone else does the same ask him or her to join you in planning timely objectives.

Being able to complete a project under pressure is good however just imagine how your work will

TRACK YOUR PROGRESS If you make several resolutions, keep a record of your goals and successes. That way you can see your success—and where you need to improve.

5.

STICK WITH IT

Don’t get discouraged and give up if things don’t move as quickly as you’d like them to. Change takes time and patience. You can reach almost every goal if you are willing to work at it. Stay positive and focused and ask for help if you need it.

Be positive, patient and most of all you must set yourself up “To Win”! Old habits are hard to break, and when you do break them, you’ve done something important—both because you had been doing something that wasn’t good for you and because you’ve overcome an ingrained habit.

Good luck and have a successful new year achieving goals you have set and kept!

24. January - February 15, 2012

Black Women are Straightening it Out!

By Dr. D. L. Jones Contributing Writer How many African American women can remember the days of the hot comb? In the home I grew up in it was better known as the “straightening comb.” That metal wide tooth comb that momma would heat up on the stove just hot

enough to press through my sister’s hair until it was straight and laying flat on her head. Wherever you were in the house you could smell it when momma had that straightening comb working through my little sister’s hair.

Today, we live in a world of weaves, lace wigs and extensions but let’s not forget how one black woman by the name of Madam C. J. Walker helped revolutionize how black women adorned their hair with the help of the infamous straightening-comb.

Today, we don’t hear that much about the straightening-comb but like Madam C. J. Walker, today’s black women are yet straightening out new paths in entrepreneurial success.

Born to sharecroppers who were formerly slaves, Madam C. J. Walker was orphaned at the age of six and began working in the cot-

ton fields at an early age. Nevertheless, she didn’t let hardship and life’s situations block her from pursuing her dreams. Furthermore, it was literally a dream coupled with hard work that catapulted her to great success.

Madam C. J. Walker had a dream about a product that black women could use to make their hair grow. She came up with a product called “The Wonderful Hair Grower,” however; this scalp ointment alone did little for black women’s hair. The magic came when she coupled her hair and scalp ointment with what is commonly known as the straightening-comb. Not only did it give black women a softer, shinier and more relaxed hair, it also added length to their hair.

Just think about the power of a dream. Madam C. J. Walker had

a dream and turned it into a reality.

That dream went on to become a business empire of hair care products that landed her the claim to fame as the first black woman millionaire in the United States.

Madam C. J. Walker’s straightening-comb transformed black women’s coarse hair into something soft, subtle and easy to manage.

Like Madam C. J. Walker, there are millions of talented black women in America with a dream to go into business and do something big that will help the masses. Metaphorically, what Madam Walker did to coarse hair using the straightening-comb, many black women can do with the coarse obstacles and challenges that impede

their dreams: with hard work and determination, they can straighten them out!

Madam C. J. Walker died from a stroke in 1919 but the straightening-comb lives on both physically and spiritually. Over a hundred years after Madam C. J.

Walker invented the straighteningcomb one can find its use in southern hair salons and urban homes.

The spiritual benefits can be seen as well.

Black women today are yet straightening out rough paths, plowing their way to success.

Though James Brown sang, “It’s a Man’s World” he went on to say ‘it wouldn’t be nothing without a woman or a girl.’ Black women have and will continue to be a pillar of strength and power in America.

Madam C. J. Walker wasn’t born with a silver spoon in her mouth. She was the daughter of sharecroppers who were sons and daughters of slaves. But one day she had a dream about a hair ointment and a straightening-comb that revolutionized black hair care.

Young black woman, what is your dream? What are the obstacles that are blocking your dream? Whatever the obstacles; never give up on your dream. It can be as simple yet innovative as a straightening-comb or as medically ingenious as the cure for AIDS, but never give up on it.

As black women are challenged with hurdles seen and unseen, they must never give up on their dreams. Where there are dreams there are obstacles.

But when obstacles come to frustrate your dreams just remember Madam C. J. Walker. How did she solve her problem? She just straightened it out!

January - February 15, 2012

Women in It to Win It!

By Alvin E. Terry, MBA, Contributing Writer

INSPIRATION:

As defined by Webster’s Standard Dictionary, “Stimulation to a high level of creativity; a sudden creative idea.”

We all have had that sudden burst of “exhilaration and enlightenment” when that higher power just seems to come out of

nowhere and the time has come for you to do something different with your life. Sometimes that sense of change can be so overwhelming that it makes you want to “shout.” You know that it just might be the “Spirit in The Dark”, as Aretha Franklin so eloquently sings it. Something forces you to move to it and get other things done, that not only fulfills your life and self-being, but it provides a vehicle that allows you to help others along the way.

As they say, “It is a calling”, and you know that you must heed that call. As Aretha says, “Sisters are doing it for themselves”. As Gladys Knight says, “You have to keep on keeping on, even in a bad situation”. The inherent meanings behind those words are as follows:

• If you have a calling to make a change in your life be strong,

believe that you “can” do it on your own, don’t be afraid. It’s like learning how to swim for the first time and going into the 10ft end of the pool, you can’t stand on the bottom, that’s a given.

There will always be a lifeguard to watch over you, so that you can stay on top and not just breathe, but be successful.

• Keep the faith and consult with those who have similar visions, extend your networking group with like-minded people.

• The only thing that you have “to fear is fear itself.”

• Clear your mind of all negative thoughts and outside influences. You will be better off in the long-run.

• Research all those Role Models that never gave up and pushed forward. There are too many for me to name that have become famous through-out history. You do the math and your own research. It’s best.

• Read! Read! Read! In order to get your mind right, and on the right track.

INFORM: “To make known; to provide information; to reveal.”

We must stay informed with what is going on within our present day society and in the business community. This still reverts back to reading. You must be an avid reader. This is the only way that you will excel in the quest to manifest your dream.

You must know what the competition is doing in order for you to be able to rise above it and bring that extra added-value that will set you apart from the pack.

EDUCATE: “To teach or train, especially by formal study; to refine, as one’s taste.”

All of the above is the mission of “d-mars.com”. I subscribe to those values wholeheartedly!

This is why I am giving its readership the best of my knowledge and experience. We must search out those positive influences that will have a positive effect on all of the aspects of our lives, our fami-

25.

lies, and our community. When I first heard Rev. Jesse Jackson, from Operation Push say in the late 60’s on television program, “A Mind is a Terrible Thing to Waste,” it has left a permanent impression on me.

You cannot take a textbook at night, place it under your pillow and expect to gain that knowledge through osmosis. You ‘gotta ‘read the whole book, or at least most of it. There are other alternative methods of learning that can support your schedule, such as coaching, taking a class, or consulting industry experts. It is a bunch of work, but it is not hard work. It only takes dedication.

I hope that these inspirational words encourage you to assume a winning stance for 2012. I look forward to seeing you on D-TV in the near future next year with “Ask Alvin,” anything about Business and Real Estate. I may be contacted directly at 713.392.9107 or alvin.terry@rocketmail.com.

INTERNATIONAL

26. January - February 15, 2012

SECTION

International Speaking

Business Opportunities for African Americans in China

By Val Thompson, Contributing Wrtier

I

f you are looking for extraordinary opportunities to enter and/or expand your business and trade into one of the world’s fastest growing market, you need to register for the 2012 Business and Trade Mission to China designed for small and medium sized businesses. The mission is scheduled for March 13 - 21, 2012 and will be led by Val Thompson, the President of Houston International Trade Development Council (HITDC) and Jim Wu, the President of US-China International Business Network (UCIBN).

China is the third-largest

U.S. export market and it continues to expand rapidly. As a buyer of U.S. goods, China ranks behind only Canada and Mexico-our two immediate neighbors with whom the U.S. has a free-trade agreement. In 2010, exports to China rose 32 percent faster than the export growth to any of the U.S. top five export destinations.

This trade mission is dedicated to promoting the products and services of trade participants and to build business and professional relationships in Chinese markets. We will be visiting the cities of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Guangzhou & Beijing.

Hong Kong which reverted to Chinese rule in 1997 remains a vibrant economy with a relatively high standard of living. Although the population is small, businessmen and women are familiar with western business practices and competition is intense. New products can and do gain market share very quickly. Hong Kong is a gateway to the Chinese Market. Many businesses in Hong Kong have their manufacturing in Guangdong Province. Hong Kong’s strengths are in high-tech sectors and the well capitalized banking sector. Hong Kong is the first leg of the mission and there will be a welcome ceremony and a Business Conference in the Hong Kong Trade Development Council.

Guangzhou is the capital city of Guangdong Province and is the center of its political, economic, scientific, educational and cultural life.

Also Guangzhou is the host of Canton Fair, which is the largest bi-annual trade show of any kind in the world. We will meet with various local government officials and tour several of the manufacturing districts.

There will also be leisure time for visiting the local industrial sites.

Participants will meet with local business executives and government officials in relevant fields, have opportunities to visit manufacturers and customers, and get maximum exposure for their product or service in the Chinese market.

US-China International Business Network (UCIBN) and Houston International Trade Development Council (HITDC) have offices in Guangzhou and Beijing.

UCIBN and HITDC have arranged for the delegation to meet with local Chinese business men and women. Throughout our stay, the delegation will be staying in four and five star hotels with meals included.

Presentations will be made to the delegation by various local government officials and manufacturing groups. Beijing is the last leg of the mission and participants will have a chance to tour world renowned historic sites. A detailed itinerary will be presented at our China Briefings and details for the briefings can be found on our website.

All participants are asked to contact Val Thomson at 832-5263335 or Jim Wu at 832-875-1816 or go to www.usachinabridge.com and download the Participation Agreement and other pertinent forms and submit to the UCIBN before the deadline date. Space is limited so sign up early!

Shenzhen is located on the southern part of Guangdong Province and is a major import export center in China. Shenzhen’s modern cityscape is the result of the vibrant economy made possible by rapid foreign investment since the institution of the policy of “reform and opening” establishment of the SEZ in the late 1979. Before this, it was a small village. Both Chinese and foreign nationals have invested enormous sums in the Shenzhen SEZ. More than $30 billion U.S. dollars in foreign investment has gone into both foreign-owned and joint ventures, at first mainly in manufacturing, but more recently in the service industries as well. Shenzhen is now reputedly considered as one of the fastest-growing cities in the world.Once a small fishing village, it has experienced rapid economic growth in the last 30 years. Also, Shenzhen is Houston’s Sister City in China.

Beijing is the capital of China and it boasts of many world class attractions such as the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, the Great Wall and many others.

We will visit some of the local attractions and experience the Beijing culture before returning to the United States. Some of our group members will join the China International Petroleum and Petrochemical Technology and Equipment Exhibition (CIPPE) from March 19-21, which is the largest Oil and Gas Show in Asia.

INTERNATIONAL

SECTION

January - February 15, 2012

27.

Jamaican’ Tradition You Can Taste Jamaica House, a Caribbean café in the Galleria is the creation of Wendi-Ann Walker, MA is a recent transplant to Houston, TX and a product of St. Andrew, Jamaica. To meet the demands of the diverse Houston audience that seek a unique experience in dining options, Jamaica House provides the flavors of Jamaica and the Caribbean in a cozy setting befitting the resort island feel travelers anticipate when they travel to the islands.

Jamaica House offers a wide variety of jerk, curry and oxtail dishes offered by executive chef, Jacqui Francis. She operated on the Jamaican restaurant and catering scene in Jamaica for 26 years. In addition, she catered exclusively to the Jamaican Prime Minister for over ten years featuring the gourmet side of Jamaica’s cuisine to international dignitaries and recording artists.

Jamaica House seeks to enhance the experi-

ence of Caribbean diners throughout Houston and features live entertainment from local talents every weekend. Since the location is cozy and provides limited seating, catering services are offered for corporate and private events. Additional services provided are free Wi-Fi access, freshly brewed Blue Mountain coffee and drink specials.

Since reaching its one year anniversary in September, the vision for this island oasis is to expand on the Houston scene and partner with other major corporations, such as the Houston Dynamos, to

reach a broader audience.

Having recently been featured by Travel Zoo and Groupon, Jamaica House continues to be the go to source of authentic cuisine on a local, national and international level.

28. January - February 15, 2012

INTERNATIONAL

SECTION

College Offers a Course in the High-Demand shipping course (MARA 2401) at the South Campus as part of an associate degree in maritime administration.

The students can then transfer to Texas A&M for a Bachelor of Science in Maritime Administration.

The MARA 2401 at SJC South is the equivalent of the university’s MARA 205 course, which means when a student transfers, he or she will be one step ahead and can skip the introductory course and devote more time to other courses in the program.

The Southeast Texas region, including the Port of Houston, is a major center for the worldwide oil and petrochemical industries, and for aerospace and

biomedical research and development.

The area is also the national and international headquarters for several major energy companies, including ConocoPhillips, Exxon-Mobil, Shell Oil, and BP. Cargoes such as rice, cotton, and cattle contribute to the region’s thriving economy.

New energy technologies, such as wind, solar, and Liquefied Natural Gas, are growing sectors. The Port of Houston handles the largest export tonnage in the United States and imports are expected to increase even more when the widening of the Panama Canal is completed in 2014.

Maritime administration is what drives inter-

national commerce and is never boring or routine, according to Mary Kate Flanagan, who teaches the MARA 2401 course at SJC South.

“It’s an interesting and dynamic career field and one that offers much variety, because the scope of business is global,” Flanagan commented. “One gets to interact with people of different cultures, and learning never stops. It’s a people business, but it’s also a very competitive business that is challenging and rewarding, because one has to learn something about virtually every aspect of the shipping industry.”

Students in the MARA 2401 course learn about shipboard nomenclature,

types and mission of ships, shipbuilding materials, ship dimensions, modes of cargo handling, rules of the road, ocean currents, maritime trade and regulation, as well as winds and weather and their impact on vessel operation.

Dr. Brenda Jones, the South Campus dean of business and technical education, says the maritime administrative career field is booming and one that offers good pay and longevity within the industry.

“Business at the Port of Houston has been stable and continues to thrive.

With the opening of the deeper Panama Canal on the horizon, all projections point to continued growth,” Jones remarked.

“There generally is not much turnover in the field, because people who get into the administrative area of the maritime industry like their jobs and keep them. Many tend to view the maritime industry as a male-dominated field, but women can and do excel in the administrative ships

Branwar Wine is South Africa’s Finest

lenbosch Hills, South Africa ~ This crispy dry white beckons with an abundance of tropical fruit aromas that follow through on the lively palate.

Retail Locations: Wine Her Dine Her ~ 5410 Almeda Rd. / T&T Liquors Top Shelf ~ 17802 West Little York / Wine & Spirits ~ 16535 Lexington Blvd. / Leibman’s ~ 14529 Memorial Dr. ~Blouvlei Sauvignon Blanc 2009 ~ Wellington, South Africa ~ This grape embodies sumptuousness yet restraint showing fresh cut gooseberry with whiffs of grapefruit; smooth midweight palate but beautifully balanced with a tropical personality and long elegant finish.

Retail Locations: Wine Her Dine Her ~ 5410 Almeda Rd. / T&T Liquors Top Shelf ~ 17802 West Little York / Wine & Spirits ~ 16535 Lexington Blvd. / Leibman’s ~ 14529 Memorial Dr. / Houston Wine Merchant ~ 2646 S. Shepherd ~Polkadraai Chenin Blanc/Sauvignon Blanc (70/30) 2009 ~ Stellenbosch Hills, South Africa ~ Star bright with a green undertone. An easy to drink, well balanced blend. The wine is grassy on the nose, but the tropical fruit flavors come through on the palate.

Retail Locations: Wine Her Dine Her ~ 5410 Almeda Rd. / T&T Liquors Top Shelf ~ 17802 West Little York / Wine & Spirits ~ 16535 Lexington Blvd. ~Valdiserre Moscato

D’Asti 2009 ~ Piemonte, Italy ~ Straw-yellow color with golden reflections, made precious by the award winning wine technique.

The nose is intense with ripe apples and apricots.

The taste is delicate at the beginning with an effervescent and creamy sensation, to balance the sweetness.

These wines are available at the listed retail stores with bottle prices ranging

Field of Maritime Administration Demand is growing for international business professionals to be trained in the maritime industry as commerce continues to expand in the Houston area, one of the world’s largest regions for international trade. Photo courtesy of the Port of Houston.

San Jacinto College (SJC) now offers an Introduction to Ships and Shipping course that provides training in a high-demand, and rewarding career field that is expected to thrive as the Houston area’s vibrant international shipping industry continues to expand.

As part of an articulation agreement with Texas A&M University at Galveston, SJC students may complete the ships and

Soccer, Nelson Mandela, Peri Peri, and Wine.

Not the most obvious of associates but each in its own way have come to represent a new age in South Africa.

While wine has been produced since the early colonial days by Dutch Farmers, South African wine is now positioning itself as a favorite on the international wine stage.

Recognizing the void in the United States for quality South African wines, Branwar Wine Distributing Co. was established by founder Wayne Luckett and son, Warren.

Branwar Wine serves as an importing and wholesale distribution company for South African wines across the United States. Branwar Wine’s current focus is on the Texas wine market.

Their wines are now available in upscale restaurants and wine bars in Houston, San Antonio, and Austin.

Branwar Wine has focused on establishing a transatlantic relationship to develop trade initiatives between Africa, Europe, and the United States. Utilizing resources such as the Port of Houston, Houston Minority Supplier Diversity Council, City of Houston

and HUB contracting, they hope to set the standard for small international minority owned business.

South Africa’s current introduction to the world wine stage allows it to showcase its hundred year old vines and wine making skills that go into making remarkably balanced wines with a sense of structure and shape.

As the heat continues to bear upon us here in Houston, Branwar would like to introduce and highlight their most refreshing summer varietals: ~Passages Chardonnay 2010 ~ Stellenbosch, South Africa ~ Aromas of lemon, fresh almonds, peach and grapefruit. Subtle hints of vanilla and spice on the nose with an intense lingering aftertaste.

Retail Locations: Spec’s Downtown ~ 2410 Smith St. / Houston Wine Merchant ~ 2646 S. Shepherd / Wine Her Dine Her ~ 5410 Almeda Rd. / T&T Liquors Top Shelf ~ 17802 West Little York / Wine & Spirits ~ 16535 Lexington Blvd. / Leibman’s ~ 14529 Memorial Drive. ~Stellenbosch Hills Chenin Blanc 2009 ~ Stel-

and shipping area of this industry.”

Indeed, SJC’s faculty member Flanagan excelled in the maritime field and found it very rewarding, working for more than 20 years for a family-owned international shipping company prior to stepping into the teaching field. “To me, it’s more than just a career choice, it’s a way of life. It’s a business that welcomes dynamic professionals who want to make their mark,” she said. “It’s a great field if a person likes variety, and likes to learn new things, and also likes a job that offers a good future.”

Registration for the Introduction to Ships and Shipping course at the South Campus, as well as all courses and programs at at San Jacinto College, continues through mid-January. The first day of classes for the Spring semester is Jan. 17, 2012.

from $11.99 to $25.99.

To learn more about the transfer agreement with Texas A&M University at Galveston, visit www.sanjac.edu/ tamug-transfer.

Taken from yourpasadenanews.com.

Please visit our website and facebook for more information about these wines and the red wines now available: www.branwarwines.com or facebook.com/branwarwines

January - February 15, 2012

29.

30. January - February 15, 2012

January - February 15, 2012

Black Heritage Committee Holds Annual Gala to Benefit the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo

T

he Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Black Heritage Committee hosts its 19th Annual

Western Gala at Reliant Arena, Jan. 28, 2012. The event, which has been a part of the committee’s fundraising endeavors since

its establishment in 1993, will contribute to the Show’s goals of benefiting youth and supporting education.

Several Show scholarship recipients are invited to the annual gala, and attendees can learn about the many opportunities that these deserving students were able to take advantage of due to educational funding from the Show.

Live entertainment will be provided by Keith Frank and the Soileau Zydeco Band, as well as a mix of music from DJ Jammin’ J. During the gala, several community leaders, ranging from the medical industry and agriculture to education and the business world, will be honored for their contributions to the black community.

As one of more than 100

31.

Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo committees, the Black Heritage Committee works year-round to prepare for special events held on the Show’s annual Black Heritage Day, set for March 2, 2012.

In addition to the annual gala, the committee holds a golf tournament each fall, and net proceeds from this event benefit the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo.

Since its beginning in 1932, the Show has committed approximately $283 million to the youth of Texas. The 2012 Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo runs Feb. 28 through March 18. For tickets and more information, visit www. rodeohouston.com.

Take DRASTIC Steps to Achieve Your Goals

By Toni Harris, Contributing Writer Every year around this time, many of us restate our resolutions or goals for the upcoming year.

Many of those resolutions are the same ones we stated last year. You know the ones, lose weight, improve my health, eat right, save more money, spend less, start my business, go to school, etc., etc.

Some of the reasons we don’t achieve these goals is because we don’t take DRASTIC steps and move outside our comfort zone to obtain the goals. I know there are many experts that will tell you to take small, consistent steps to your goal and you will eventually get there. But as the Turnaround Queen, I’m here to tell you that sometimes, most of the time, you need to jump in with both feet.

There have been times when I was faced with the choice to choose the safe, easy route and I chose to take a risk and it paid off immensely. My husband and I took a drastic step and paid a local weight loss center to achieve our weight goals and we lost over 150 pounds together. Our story was featured in Ebony magazine and we were on top of the world.

However, we moved away and began to fall back into our old habits, the next thing I knew, I was weighing over 250 pounds. I was humiliated and mortified! At this time, I had a choice to resign myself to the fact that I was just going to be overweight and un-

healthy or to do something about it. I took “baby steps” and tried several diets and weight loss programs but I just could not get the weight off the way I had in the past. So in 2004, I took a DRASTIC step and had gastric bypass surgery and have kept the weight off for over seven years.

My question to you is what are you willing to do that’s DRASTIC to achieve your goals? You may not do anything as radical as having surgery, but maybe you should.

Only you can answer the question for yourself. However, are you willing to take a DRASTIC step and pay for help to reach your goals?

Perhaps you need a life coach, someone who can motivate you and hold you accountable. Paying someone for support may be your DRASTIC step.

What happens when you don’t take a DRASTIC step? My husband mentioned above also regained his weight. He had high blood pressure and diabetes and always talked about doing something to improve his health but he was unwilling to take a DRASTIC step. Unfortunately, as a result he passed away at a young age of 48 from complications of these diseases. So when you are talking to yourself about whether you are going to step outside of your comfort zone to achieve your goals, ask yourself, “If I don’t take a DRASTIC step today, what will happen to my future?” I hope the answer is living the life you imagined to the fullest extent possible. But just remember without a DRASTIC step, the opposite is also possible.

Toni Harris, also known as the Turnaround Queen, is a motivational speaker, Internet radio show host, coach and author. She is passionate about helping others to step outside their comfort zone to take drastic steps to achieve their personal, professional and financial goals. Contact Toni at toni@toniharrisspeaks.com.

32. January - February 15, 2012

An Often Forgotten Blessing

By Carla Lane, Contributing Writer This Christmas I went home and while there, I had the opportunity to visit one of my childhood best friends. She was diagnosed with breast cancer a few months ago. Her prognosis is good. Her smile is bright and both of her sons and her granddaughter were home for Christmas. She is determined to beat the cancer that took her mother’s life when she was just 11 years old. Every word that came out of her mouth was positive and full of hope, as she described to me how she discovered the knot close to her collar bone. How it seemed to tingle, how she called her “mother” who is really her aunt that raised her after the death of her mother and was told, “Go straight to the doctor.” She told me she decided that before going to the doctor, she would go on the vacation she had planned for months with her sisters to gather her strength and face what she felt was inevitable.

My girlfriend is a 2nd grade teacher and although she is fighting for her life

she goes to work when the nausea and aches that are a result of chemotherapy permit. You see she is a single woman and needs to maintain her insurance. Her eyes dance as she reminds me of the times we cruised up and down Camp Wisdom Road in South Oak Cliff, how we hung at Red Bird Mall in the arcade and how our favorite topic of conversation was always Boys, Boys, and Boys!!!

I know she senses my sorrow, as I try to make jokes and reminisce with her. I always admired her beautiful, long, thick hair.

Her head is now covered with a scarf. When she mentions us curling our hair and putting on makeup in my bathroom before going to see the Carter Cowboys football team beat up on their latest victim. I visible flinch. She reminds me that this path though not easy, is her path and that she needs my support not my pity.

She reminds me that my responsibility as her friend is to be an unwavering supporter of her spirit, not a reminder of her struggle. I apologize, and tell her she is absolutely right. I gather myself, put on my big girl pants and behave like the Carla she knows….Smart mouth, wise cracking, know it all “little Carla”.

After all we, (the original South Oak Cliff girls) will get through this just like we have every other major life event, TOGETHER. Between the five of us we have four X-husbands, three current husbands, have given birth to ten children, buried ten grandparents and

two parents. And although we don’t see each other or even talk regularly, we make sure we send each other pictures of our children, spouses, newspaper articles, and awards. We send each other Birthday, Mother’s Day, and Christmas cards; and when there is a tragedy or an emergency we are there for each other. And isn’t that what good girlfriends do?

As women we often forget the importance of the bond that we share with our girlfriends and the power we wield with our hearts, time and most importantly our tongues. I am guilty of being a terrible friend. I am selfish with my time, I become involved in what I am doing and I forget to be a friend. My visit with my girl reminded me that friendships are priceless and they are what get you through the tough times. An encouraging word from a girlfriend that knows the real you and still smiles when she hears your voice is priceless. You know the girlfriend, the one who calls and doesn’t need anything from you. The one who asks you how you are; not to be polite but because she cares about you. The one that when you tell her you are leaving your husband knows whether she should come help you pack or if she should tell you to,” Stop being mean to that man” and hang up. The one who cries with you when you cry about dropping your son off at college, afraid the world will eat him alive.

The one who knows you are not bragging when you call her about your latest shoe purchase, she laughs about your addiction though she thinks it’s ridiculous to pay that much for shoes! The one whose name you put on the contact list at your daughter’s school because you have no family in Houston. The one who knows that when you are too quiet something’s going on, and she shows up at your door with a bottle of wine and a joke that is beyond corny.

I remember one day years back talking to my mom about life, about marriage, about the responsibilities of life and the obligations of adulthood.

My mother looked at me as I went on and on about what me and the kids or me and Kenny were going to do. “Don’t forget your sisters,” she advised.

“They’ll be more important as you get older. No matter how much you love your husband, no matter how much you love your children, you are still going to need sisters. Remember to go places with them now and then; do things with them. Remember that ‘sisters’ means ALL the women, your girlfriends, your daughters, and all your

other women relatives too.

You’ll need other women.

Women always do.”

I told my mom things were different now, I am much too busy for all that.

I have a husband, children, and a business to run. Friendship would have to wait until things slow down.

My visit with my girlfriend reminded me of that conversation, and of a chain email I received from a friend months ago.

It read: After more than 50 years of living in this world, here is what I’ve learned: Time passes.

Life happens.

Distance separates.

Children grow up.

Jobs come and go.

Love waxes and wanes.

Men don’t do what they’re supposed to do.

Hearts break.

Parents die.

Colleagues forget favors.

Careers end.

BUT.........

Sisters are there, no matter how much time and how many miles are between you. A girl friend is never farther away than needing

her can reach.

When you have to walk that lonesome valley and you have to walk it by yourself, the women in your life will be on the valley’s rim, cheering you on, praying for you, pulling for you, intervening on your behalf, and waiting with open arms at the valley’s end.

Sometimes, they will even break the rules and walk beside you....Or come in and carry you out.

Girlfriends, daughters, granddaughters, daughtersin-law, sisters, sisters-in-law, Mothers, Mother-In-laws, Grandmothers, aunties, nieces, cousins, and extended family: all bless your life!

The world wouldn’t be the same without women, and neither would I. When we began this adventure called womanhood, we had no idea of the incredible joys or sorrows that lay ahead. Nor did we know how much we would need each other.

Every day, we need each other … still.

Blessings, Carla

January - February 15, 2012

A

Cleansing System

The Key to Successful Long-Term Weight Loss Because the typical American diet is high in substances that act as poisons to our bodies - things like saturated fats, sugars, and food additives and chemicals - the first step in any successful weight loss program is detoxing.

This detoxification process is a cleansing process that gets the harmful substances out of your body’s blood stream and tissues. Such a cleansing process has the added benefit of weaning you off of the toxic substances you may have been consuming for years. It breaks the addiction to sugar, caffeine, and the insidious preservatives that are so much a part of the American diet.

There are many cleansing system products available that can help you in the detoxing phase of your weight loss plan. It’s important to find one that is natural and organic, and that does not contain some of the potentially harmful substances found in many over the counter products. Read the labels carefully, an If you’re looking for an all-natural way to enhance and moisturize your skin, or just provide a rejuvenating treatment for yourself, a body wrap can do wonders for your appearance.

Body wraps are designed to improve the texture and appearance of skin by removing excess fluid and toxins from the body. This method also firms loose skin and treats the unsightly appearance of cellulite. In addition, body wraps offer a variety of benefits that include detoxification, contouring, skin softening, and giving a boost to the lymphatic system and metabolism. People who have enjoyed a body wrap treatment may have also noticed another benefit: losing a few inches around the waistline.

Jump Starting Weight Loss While there’s no “magic bullet” that will cause you to lose weight and keep it off, there are products available that will help jump-start your weight loss. And we have discovered a system that is as close to “magic” as you can get, because it helps you detox your body from the outside in, as well as the inside out.

Quite frankly, it’s been one of the best kept secrets around. The products are available through a company named, It Works Global…appropriately named, because the products really do work!

What It Works Global offers to detoxify you!

• Ultimate Body Applicators Expect “ultimate” results with this amazing 45 minute target specific body applicator! This is a non-woven cloth infused with a powerful,

botanically-based formula to deliver maximum tightening, toning, and firming results.

• Greens

Not eating your fruits and vegetables like you should? This is a super-food blend of orange flavored alkalizing drink powder to help detoxify, and balance the immune system. Re-

33.

member disease cannot grow in an alkaline body!

• Ultimate ThermoFit Fire up your metabolism! Helps to reduce your appetite and every two tablets burn up to 278 calories.

• Fat Fighter Have a sweet tooth? Simply take within an hour of eating, and it will absorb some of the fat and carbs from your food so that your body doesn’t!

For more information on It Works Global please contact Greta Douglas 281-300-5050 or Shaunda Sostand 832-209-8842

34. January - February 15, 2012

L ve In Abundance College Must Begin in 8th Grade Life and Precollege Preparatory Program

By Sharon C. Jenkins, Contributing Wrtier

Vickie Gunnells Hodge

D

ivorce is prevalent in the United States of America. One out of every two marriages results in divorce. There are no manuals or books that tell you how to do it without devastating the children involved.

One woman’s quest to get it right with her three children blossomed into a non-profit called Love In Abundance (LIA). LIA was created in 2002 after its founder Vickie Gunnells-Hodge sought a way to develop a healing balm for the “great divide” that had changed her life and that of her children.

Gunnells-Hodge stated, “I want students and families to know that they must be willing to determine who they are and live up to those standards instead of providing the ammunition for anyone to ever think its their right to diminish their worth by telling them what they cannot do—and living down to those limitations.”

It was not her original intent to start a non-profit. She was seeking a way to “stay out of trouble” during the summers her children visited their grandmother. As a result she started to interview children to get their prospective about how they felt about their parents being divorced and what their parents were doing and were not doing right. She became so popular, that parents started to e-mail her about talking to their children. As the numbers increased she decided to hold a forum with a group of youth to talk about the issue. At the end of her presentation someone from the back of the room suggested that she start a place for them based on their perception of her sincerity. Her immediate response was “no.” With three children of her own to

raise, a household to care for, and a job that met her satisfaction, there was no room for anything else.

The thought began to haunt her and she eventually surrendered. Not being one to rely solely on what she knows, she returned to school in order to study psychology and sociology. After all she would be working with children and she wanted to do it right, their future depended on it.

LIA’s motto is “Before you get to the Capital, you must be willing to make some Investments in Yourself!” Therefore, the main purpose for LIA is to help students know that they must first define the boundaries of their lives, and seek to master life itself, instead of merely existing.

The LIA program is based on Dr. Pierre Bourdieu’s Sociological Perspective Capitals: Social Capital, Symbolic Capital, Economic Capital and Cultural Capital.

Traditionally her organization services 137 girls during the school year from 5th grade to High School. The Love In Abundance College Must Begin in 8th Grade Life and Precollege Preparatory Program is prima-

rily provided in the Aldine School District, but a portion of its curriculum is also offered in a few HISD schools. The program is implemented during the school day and in after-school programs.

LIA launched a Cover Design Contest for the book, Their Lies vs. Your Truths: A Practical Guide to Developing 16 Personal Rules for Life. The contest will end on February 12th and LIA is soliciting youth support from our readership. The Contest is open to students in 7th- 12th Grade, in families earning less than $50,000 annually. The $20 tax deductible donation must be made at www.liahouston.org or mailed via a cashiers check or money order to 5311 Yorkwoord, Houston, TX 77016 before the deadline date. The cover winner will get 1% of the net profits from this project for one year, to be placed in an IDA account for advanced education post high school. The secondary winners (from each of the three Cover Design Contest categories) will be included in a fourth book. For more information contact Vickie GunnellsHodge, founder at www.liahouston.org.

January - February 15, 2012

35.

36. January - February 15, 2012

Are you ready to bring it?

By Blaze, aka Barbara Lazarony Contributing Writer

It’s the dawn of a bright and shiny New Year; do you know how you’ll end 2012?

Every year around this time, millions of Americans pause and reflect on the previous twelve months; taking an inventory of the good, the bad, and yes-even

the ugly in their personal and professional lives and resolving that the next year will be different. We vow to do things like lose weight, eat healthier, exercise more, or reduce expenses and expand our client base. Or perhaps we resolve to spend more time with our family and friends and less time working.

We each begin the year with the best of intentions, and sadly by end of February most of us are back to our same old habits, our New Year’s resolutions long since forgotten.

Are you ready to beat the odds?

Are you ready to bring it?

Then grab and pen and paper and let’s get started.

Six Tips to Make Your Resolution a Reality Resolution to Reality Tip #1 – Brainstorm Your End of Year Goals Decide on all of the goals that you want to achieve by the end of 2012, be as specific and detailed as possible as you write each of them

down on your page. Take some time with this step; don’t leave any goals that you want turn into reality for 2012 out at this point.

Resolution to Reality Tip #2 – Choose One Goal We are a country of overachievers; therefore, we think if one goal is good, then two surely must be better. In this case, please choose your single most important goal, the one that you most desire to become a reality by the end of the year. Circle your one choice on your piece of paper.

Resolution to Reality Tip #3 – Embody Your Choice Close your eyes and imagine yourself at the end of 2012; see yourself having achieved your desired goal. Look down and see your slimmer body or even you enjoying quality time with your family.

Next, ask yourself silently, how does this feel? Is it a feeling of happiness, warmth, joy, or something else? Keep your eyes closed and allow the positive feelings to come to you, whatever they are. Take three deep breaths as you really feel into

your choice. Then, chose one word that best describes the feelings associated with your goal, write down word next to your goal. (Please don’t skip this tip; it’s important to identify your feeling word!)

like to have your final goal at each milestone along the way. And by staying connected to your feelings, you’ll be encouraged to achieve the next milestone and then the one after that too!

Resolution to Reality Tip #4 – Streamline Your Goal and Create Milestones Now it’s time to take out your paper or computerized calendar and start streamlining and planning your one goal. For example, if you want to lose 20 pounds by the end of the year, you could streamline your goal into just two pounds a month or even losing just one pound every 15 days.

Take some time to decide the best way to simplify or streamline your goal. Next, create milestones on your calendar to guide you throughout the year. Having goals written down where you look consistently is critical keeping your focus throughout the year.

Resolution to Reality Tip #6 – Take Action and Seek Support Without consistent action your resolution is just a dream, so this is where you commit to take the necessary daily steps to achieve your goal. And don’t forget to ask for support from your family, friends, and even co-workers too; they can help cheer you on towards your milestones each month. Make your resolution to reality process fun; you might even consider asking others how you can support them in achieving their resolutions too.

Resolution to Reality Tip #5 – Add Your Word to Your Milestones Next, take your embodiment word from Tip 3 and write into your calendar next to your milestones. This word will serve as a reminder to check-in with yourself, and get in touch with the feeling that you most want to have by the end of the year.

The great news is that you’re training your body to feel what it’s

Most of all, don’t forget to bring it!

And cheers to you in advance; if you follow these tips, you’ll be so proud on December 31, 2012 that you beat the odds and made your resolutions a reality.

Blaze, aka Barbara Lazarony is a fire-starter and mentor to women who want to light up the world. She helps professional and entrepreneurial women who feel burned out, overworked, and underappreciated step into their brilliant blazing light; by rekindling their passion, illuminating their purpose, and firing up their power to achieve the results they most desire in their lives and businesses. Find out more about Blaze at www.blazeabrilliantpath.com

January - February 15, 2012

Complete the Curriculum: Addressing the Mathematical Educational Divide

5

37.

Keys to Unlock the Social Media Maven Within

By Sharon C. Jenkins, www.sharoncjenkins.com

M

ary McWilliams has always loved math.

As a child growing up in the Caribbean on the island of Trinidad, she was encouraged and nurtured to follow her enthusiasm for this mystifying subject by her teachers who recognized a young genius in the making. She obtained her Bachelor’s degree in math from both the University of Houston and the City University of New York (CUNY)’s College of Staten Island (C.S.I) in New York City. She continued at C.S.I., obtaining her Masters in Math Education. She is also the founder of Complete the Curriculum, Incorporated.

Complete the Curriculum is a math tutoring business designed to eradicate the current gap between American students and the global standard. This organization aims to equip students to close the educational gap by supplementing their public school education using pedagogical methods that specifically address the learning styles of minority children.

Mary McWilliams’ Career as an Educator In 1985, she was watching “A Nation at Risk” on television and felt compelled to do something about America’s ever increasing “educational divide” for minority students. 26 years ago, she became a public school math instructor, changing the lives of gifted and at-risk students nationwide. For the last 5 years she taught Algebra 1, Algebra 2, and Geometry at Lamar High School in Houston Independent School District. She taught for 6 years in Moreno Valley Unified School District in California. She spent the other years teaching in New York City public schools. In addition, she taught remedial math classes at Houston Community College and Medgar Evers College, City of University of New York. She also taught Statistics at The College of New Rochelle’s Brooklyn campus.

Her teaching career spans from kindergarten to college level. She is an expert on developing Algebraic Thinking in students of all ages, gaining her knowledge at City College’s Summer Real World Math Institute in 1995.

She continued her commitment

to the Real World Institute as a leader in her school and community, giving seminars to parents and teachers.

Complete the Curriculum, An Answer to Public Education’s Swiss Cheese Approach No Child Left Behind was another educational response to “A Nation at Risk.” Every national educational initiative has their pros and cons, but unfortunately the lesson learned from this effort is that you can not legislate student performance. We are leaving our children behind, at a disadvantage in the new world order because classroom instruction that is heavily focused on preparation for a standardized test is not adequately preparing “all” children to be competitive in today’s global economy. McWilliams says, “Texas is one of only two states that have not implemented the national curriculum.

Unfortunately, too much time is spent preparing students for the state standardized test at the cost of learning the actual state curriculum standards. Students learn to do well on an exam, but do not have the knowledge necessary to succeed in the world.”

“The main difference between these standards and most of the others in that CCSMS [The Common Core State Mathematics Standards] are mathematically very sound overall. They could serve-at long last – as the foundation for creating proper school mathematics textbooks and dramatically better teacher preparation. Before the CCSMS came along, America long resisted the idea of commonality of standards and curriculum- but it did not resist such commonality in actual classrooms.” – Hung-Hsi Wu (Phoenix Rising: Bringing the Common Core State Mathematics Standards to Life, American Educator) It is an established fact that our current educational system does not prepare students to be able to compete in the global market. We must act now and supplement the education our students are receiving in public schools. Complete the Curriculum can help.

America faces many challenges…but the enemy I fear most is complacency. We are about to be

hit by the full force of global competition. If we continue to ignore the obvious task at hand while others beat us at our own game, our children and grandchildren will pay the price. We must now establish a sense of urgency.”— Charles Vest, Former President Massachusetts Institute of Technology According to McWilliams, “Texas’ public educational system is using a ‘swiss cheese’ approach to education, doing a disservice to our children; they can’t compete on the national level, much less globally. The United States has dropped in education rankings worldwide. Globally, we come in 32nd in math proficiency.

Only a third of U.S. students are math proficient. That’s one out of every three students. This should alarm us because 22 countries outperform the U.S. Complete the Curriculum offers students an opportunity to improve their chances at competing internationally. The current educational climate in America will not help our children. Tutoring will put your child at an advantage.”1 We live in a global economy.

How your child ranks in this state is important, but not as important as it is how they rank globally. Our children need to not only be better than another student in Texas, or even NY, but also better than someone’s child in China or India Complete the Curriculum was specifically designed to assist parents and students in addressing this issue. They offer math tutoring (individual and group), weekday and weekend enrichment programs, technology tutoring, college preparatory mathematical remediation and homework support. McWilliams’ technique of making math a simple, fun subject has gained her a following of former students, who were able to complete their higher education goals with ease as a result of her program. For more information on how you can bridge the mathematical educational divide in the life of your child, or even in your life, contact 713.364.2669 or completethecurriculum@gmail. ________________________________________ 1 Information taken from Globally Challenged: Are U. S. Students Ready to Compete? The latest on each state’s international standing in math and reading. http://www.hks.harvard.edu/pepg/index.htm com.

By JP Jones, Contributing Writer In today’s world of social media it is more important than ever to adequately market yourself. Regardless of your profession – from business professional to artist, putting yourself before an audience is the key to getting your product, service or talents noticed.

Clients have told me that this task seems to be the hardest of their entire marketing undertaking. Part of the hang up here is that self marketing can be perceived as bragging and many people simply shy away from ‘tooting their own horn’—(and those that don’t –should!)

But, social media marketing doesn’t have to mean bragging – and it certainly shouldn’t be done in arrogance – it simply means putting your best foot forward and showcasing your talents and abilities. Don’t worry you CAN market yourself online both tastefully and successfully.

To help you get started on the road to social media marketing success, let’s look at a few starter tips to get you on the right track— 1. Be Human Don’t fall into the temptation of trying to make yourself appear perfect online. You are not. Get that off the table and move on from there.

2. Poke Fun Don’t be afraid to laugh at yourself—this goes hand-in-hand with our first key. You will find that people gravitate toward others that are willing to poke fun at themselves; allowing the rest of us to all identify with their ‘humanness’. Show others that you’re not afraid to laugh at your own mistakes and that you don’t take yourself too seriously.

3. Promote Your Success The term “success” here, refers to anything that you are actively doing and advancing on. Can’t think of anything ‘successful’ to share?

Let’s look at some starter ideas:

Events: Conference, seminars, and workshops you’re attending or participating in, in any capacity.

Award and Honors: Anything for which you might receive recognition Articles, Essays and News: If you or your business has been featured ANYWHERE; promote it by sharing links, sharing excerpts and sending updates to your followers.

4. Completed Projects and Plans Talk about completed tasks and in projects that are in process. A big stepping-stone to successful social media marketing is to keep your profession, strengths and talents in front of your followers.

When they suddenly find themselves needed something you can provide they will remember.

5. Real Life: Yeah, yeah, it may sound boring but it’s really not—it is however— necessary to successfully market yourself. The last thing you want to do is appear to be “broadcasting” your business by JUST talking about your successes and business ventures. So be sure to mix it up and throw in some of those ‘every day’ updates as well.

THE KEY TO IT ALL: Balance.

No one thing we’ve discussed here should be done in excess.

On the contrary—the best social media marketing is a steady combination of all five keys. As you progress on your marketing venture stay humble but don’t be afraid to promote yourself with boldness.

JP Jones is a business owner and serial entrepreneur. Owner of Paige1Media & Paige1Publishing, she is also the Co-owner of Collipsis Web Solutions & HootPress Conversion House. Jones is the author of Market Yourself: A Beginner’s Guide to Social Media and is a regular contributor for a variety of blogs and online journals. www.marketyourselfthebook.com

38. January - February 15, 2012

Helen Callier, Propelled by a Vision and a Big Enough WHY to Succeed

O

nce in a lifetime, there is a child that is born that steps into their destiny, immediately after their entry into the world, Helen Callier comes from that lineage. Born to parents that were professors and that owned an auto mechanics shop that serviced commercial and domestic vehicles, she “cut her teeth” on the principles of business at an early age.

On the campus of Prairie View A & M University, sitting on the steps of W.R. Banks Library, dreaming about her future as an entrepreneur, her vision was birthed. Callier, a Six Sigma Black Belt with a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering,

company.

Bradlink, a Technical Services Firm, was established in 2004, and its sole producer was Callier. In 2012, this 20 member firm, soon to be 25 members, provides facilities design, Information Technology, project/program management, and operations and maintenance support services. Bradlink has offices in Dallas and Houston, Texas primarily serving Transit and Aviation clients. Her company is known in the Transportation industry “as a go to resource.” It is the company’s practice to “live and breathe their client’s organization and to become a seamless and integrated team member to better assist them serving their clients

had a long career in Corporate America; she remembers sitting in executive meetings with the Chairman and CEO of General Electric, Jack Welch and his adamant declarations that “Anybody in front of the customer is a salesperson.”

That was the expected professional posture of everyone in the company, including Technical Services personnel, that was frontline to the customer. And when on a customer’s site, it was important to respect all personnel from the CEO to the person unloading the railcar. Customer service is ingrained in her DNA on many fronts, from her family business being open on holidays to accommodate their clients who had limited availability because of employment restraints to having strategic service relationships in the City with various organizations.

Callier takes this philosophy to the next level at Bradlink, LLC, her dream

in a quick, responsive and solution-oriented manner.”

Bradlink provides services to government agencies and to large private firms that participate in the government market.

Callier is a voracious reader and attributes her success to living and breathing her clients, being a life-long learner, and being active, as much as possible, in the Transportation industry. . She even advises her protégées to be visible in the marketplace, to grow from what they know (assets they have in hand) and to take as many classes as possible on the “how to” of doing business. Mentoring others is also a critical part of her giving to the community. She was impressed with the Steel Magnate Andrew Carnegie’s conversation with Napoleon Hill about his potential to be “greater than he was.” His statement dumbfounded Hill because at the time Carnegie was one of the

richest men in the world.

Carnegie’s prophecy for Hill became a reality; Think & Grow Rich is the businessperson’s bible, even in 2012. That is Callier’s hope, to help others achieve higher heights than she has in the small business arena.

Callier’s’s helps small, minority, and women owned (SMWDBE) firms to seek opportunities in the government market, served as the catalyst to revamp the City of Houston’s Affirmative Action

and Compliance Mentor Protégé Program, and continues to give and be a difference maker as Chair of Government Procurement Connections (GPC) Planning Committee which connects SMWDBE firms to local, state and federal agencies and large primes.

Frank Wengler, PE, AECOM Vice President says “It’s an honor to work with Bradlink.” “…Bradlink has developed valuable best practices to encourage and foster sustainable growth

in M/WBE participation.”

All of this is a result of a young woman’s vision crystallizing and becoming a reality.

Some of Callier’s heroes are Nathelyne Kennedy, President and CEO of Nathelyne A. Kennedy & Associates, the first female engineering graduate from Prairie View A&M University. Kennedy owns a very successful and highly regarded Houston based Civil and Structural Consulting Engineering Company. She also admires Helen Keller, for her vision that took her around the world on adventures plus created a different world and paradigm for persons with disabilities. Madame C. J. Walker is also a Mentor for Callier; she has done an extensive study on her life and was propelled by her tenacity to serve plus by her becoming the first

African American female business owner to wear the moniker of “millionaire” in the early 1900’s. Madame C.J. Walker’s business existed over 80 years and is still today a case study in many business schools.

Callier’s’s advice for small business owners who desire to be a catalytic force in the marketplace, “Have a big enough ‘WHY,’ this is what magnetizes you and moves you in achieving your business goals. .

Once you are clear on that WHY, then write a strategic plan to make your WHY a reality. From there you can achieve any dream you have for your business and in your personal life. .”

Callier is a living example of the result of having a BIG WHY, she is an example that we will be reading about centuries after she has completed making her mark on the world.

January - February 15, 2012

Top 10 Secrets of Success

Give Back

1.

Be Humble Realize that you are blessed and fortunate.

Be thankful and upbeat about your own starting point, whatever situation you may be in now. Be grateful for what you do have. Turn negatives into positives. For

Have Written Goals

6.

3.

Take Risks Become a risk-taker. In order to succeed at anything, you have to try. Stretch beyond your comfort zone. Tackle the very thing that you fear, and watch your fear dissipate.

Be bold.

4.

Work Hard A strong work ethic can outpace smarts and talent. If you are hardworking and disciplined, you will succeed. People who get ahead are the people who give it their best and go the extra mile.

5.

Believe in a Higher Power

Maintain a Sense of Urgency

Be Persistent

Map out your dreams and aspirations.

Commit your goals to paper and become dedicated to accomplishing those goals.

Writing down your goals has a powerful, almost magical, effect.

9.

To beat the odds, you must be determined and unrelenting in the pursuit of your dreams. Never give up. Don’t ever quit.

example, my difficult upbringing gave me a strong work ethic and made me self-reliant.

2.

tant by treating them with respect, dignity and consideration. It’s the single greatest gift you can give to them.

With a belief in God or a Higher Power, you’ll have a deeper sense of what’s important and what really matters in life. Do your best and realize that sometimes you have to hand it over to a Higher Power and stop worrying or allowing it to control you in a negative way. Some people say that the word “ego” means “erasing God out.”

By Vonda White, Contributing Writer Being raised by a single mom who was struggling to pay bills, I dreamed of having a better life for myself and someday, the children I would bring into the world. I DID beat the odds. I went to college on Pell Grants and scholarships and graduated with honors, and went on to achieve success beyond by greatest dreams. How I was able to make this happen is the story I tell in my book, Success Against the OddsTM. Throughout my book, I relay many wonderful examples of ordinary people accomplishing extraordinary things, people like Debbi Fields, founder of Mrs. Fields Cookies, Rich DeVos of Amway, Brian Scudamore of 1-800-GOT-JUNK, and many others. In every story, determination, dedication, discipline and desire have turned lives around.

There are many principles that I share in my book. Here is what I have found to be my guiding principles for beating the odds and achieving remarkable success:

39.

Be a go-getter! Develop a drive and a deep desire within that keeps you motivated to keep pursuing your goals. That burning desire will inspire you to think of new ways to tackle a problem or to make an idea successful.

7.

Be Passionate Act with passion and enthusiasm. Your enthusiasm will be contagious and spread to others. When others catch that excitement, they will be more likely to help you achieve your goals. In addition, goals and dreams keep you excited, energized and full of life and passion!

8.

Be Compassionate Act with kindness and caring. Everyone wants to feel good about themselves, and you can make people feel good or impor-

10.

Make the world a better place because you were in it. Leave your mark in a positive way. Don’t forget where you came from.

Let your past or your hurts allow you to help others, so your past sorrows become a positive, rather than a negative. Make a difference in the lives of others. Share this article with someone and you just might give them the light that powers their way to live the life they’ve always imagined.

Finally, make the best of every day.

Enjoy the journey. Celebrate your successes, your family, your work, your relationships and your passions. Don’t put off or “downsize” your dreams. Don’t say “I’ll take a vacation or pursue a passion when I retire.” Do some of it now, because none of us are promised tomorrow. Don’t have regrets. Live life with passion every day.

Enjoy both the triumphs and the struggles you’ll encounter on the way to achieving your goals.

To learn more or for actual tools go to www.SuccessAgainstTheOdds.com.

40. January - February 15, 2012

January - February 15, 2012 THE

EXPERT

NETWORK

ATTORNEYS

41.

42. January - February 15, 2012 T HE

EXPERT

NETWORK

AT TORNEYS

January - February 15, 2012 T HE

EXPERT

NETWORK

AT TORNEYS

43.

44. January - February 15, 2012 THE

EXPERT

NETWORK

January - February 15, 2012 THE

EXPERT

NETWORK

45.

46. January - February 15, 2012 THE

EXPERT

NETWORK

January - February 15, 2012

47.