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Do We Finally Have The Transformational Change Agent?

Table of CONTENTS LETTER FROM THE EDITOR The Time is Always Right to do the Right Thing – by John Washington . . . . . . . .

TEEN CHAT. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

M A S T H E A D ..................................................

What is it that Makes an Economic Recovery?. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Warrior2 Sgt. Marques Daniels – By Charles Glenn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

BOOK REMARKS Dougy Center – by Lexi Benington . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Chris Dreams big – by Chris Dudley. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Yinsights- by Bernie Clark. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Gangbusters- by Lonnie Jackson. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Excuses be Gone – by Dr. Wayne Dyer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

MONEY Giving is Good – by Monique Hayward . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

How Credit Works – by Billy Jo Clark . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

MUSIC When Words Become Deeds that Meet Needs – by FM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Matt Cusson – by Fawn Aberson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Tony Ozier – by Chris Ilagan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

BEAUTY Smoke Eye – by Travis Pollanz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Skincare for the Sexes: It’s Ok to Double Dip - by Travis Pollanz. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F A S H I O N .......................................................

COMMUNITY The Conditions of Learning – by Johnny Lake. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

HIGHER CONCIOUSNESS

Page 3 Page 6 Page 9 Page 10 Page 12 Page 13 Page 16 Page 18 Page 18 Page 19 Page 20 Page 21

BUSINESS Formula for Success – Rodney Ferguson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

– Quentin Strode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

– Joe Munizaga . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

H E A LT H Prescription Pillheads - Keeping Up With the Jones’n – by David Olver. . . . . . . . .

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Army Sgt. 1st Class Marques Daniels winning ways. Page 10

Page 22 Page 27 Page 28 Page 32 Page 33 Page 34 Page 35 Page 36

F E AT UR E S T O R Y Change Agent – by Fawn Aberson & John Washington . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

WARRIOR 2

Page 37 Page 44 Page 46 Page 48 Page 50

Above

All Eyes on Me: The world looks to President Obama to lead one of the most powerful nations through some extraordinary times.

Page 29 ON THE COVER

House pages reach to shake hands with President Barack Obama as he leaves the House Chamber at the conclusion of his State of the Union address, Jan. 27, 2010

“There maybe a lot of reasons for your problems but YOU are the solution to them all”

F RO M T H E E D I TO R

The time is always right to do the right thing.

In 2009 this country elected its first official black President and the NAACP celebrated its one hundred year anniversary. People of color, once limited in their growth potential, are making remarkable gains. Witnessing President Obama take office in 2009, it felt like a veil was removed, revealing a shining light of limitless opportunities.

These rays hit me in the spiritual realm.

But with those gains, came reminders.

Cornell West stated, “What Barack Obama did was to break the glass ceiling, but we’ve got a lot of folks in the basement in the house of the American empire.” Hearing this I realized, that as a black man, we still have much work to do.

To begin, let’s reflect for a minute on Black America, and in particular issues brought up from the State of Black Oregon report put out by the Urban League of Portland (ULP). Prior to their report, it had been 17 years since the ULP had issued anything similar.

Now, as I reflect, it is less on the specifics of the report and more on the past 17 years. Back then I was serving on the Juvenile Justice Task Force for then Attorney General Ted Kulongoski .

The sub-committee I was on looked at the impact of senate bill Measure 11mandatory sentencing guidelines. I voiced my concerns because I realized that this measure meant genocide for males of color. Harvard Professor Lani Guinier said, “You can’t talk about the black community without talking about mass incarceration and you can’t talk about mass incarceration without talking about the war on drugs.”

I agree. She went on to point out that her main concern was that, the money that is funding our correctional facilities should be applied to education. Now some 17 years later, what I feared has come back to haunt us. In most states the over representation of minority males being incarcerated has had great impact on the systemic development of those ethnic groups. With the male figure absent in these households, impact can be seen in family deterioration, economic instability and reproduction-the 2010 census, perhaps for a number of reasons, will likely show a decline in the black population.

In another reflection from 17 years ago, I remember being introduced to the word diversity, as applied politically, and I watched as the advancement of colored people in this state went out the window.

All non-white and some white groups fell under the diversity label; women, Hispanics, gays and etc… and all have appeared to have advanced in this state except for the black male. The other groups have successfully lobbied, influenced legislative policy changes and garnered support for their causes and, by the way, good for them.

If it is clear that time is not a teacher, then what is?

We are constantly bombarded with questions from non-Blacks looking in at Black Oregon and asking, ‘what happened to the black leaders?’ The answer in reality is they got shot (Martin, Malcolm) and with their deaths, the system that inspired great talent seemed to die as well.

What seem to replace it was an exercise in blaming everyone and everything for the problems we are having. My mother (God rest her soul) would tell me “there maybe a lot of reasons for your problems

but you are the solution to them all. Look at yourself and see what part you play in your problem.”

Call to Action

As we rightly celebrate the beginning of the age of Obama, his arrival, like it or not, has put a spot light on people of color.

Will we perpetuate an image of whiners and complainers, focused on being bitter, not better, in denial of our current state of affairs? Contrary to his critics, Obama is not the source of this country’s problems; he inherited the problems this country is facing.

In his attempt to bring order out of chaos he has faced ridiculous forms of criticism such as being all talk and no walk or ignorant statements like ‘ is the White house turning into the Blackhouse?’

Change is upon us, you can feel it in the air, whether you want it or not. Some of the old dogs will have to learn new tricks. Recently I was at a Martin Luther King celebration listening to the now Oregon Attorney General John Kroger. He stated that until he took office, there was no civil rights judicial unit in Oregon. When he cited the reasons for this past oversight, he shared that the opposing views complained it would cost too much to service it and or that there wasn’t a need; we were okay without it. Is it statements like these that reflect the sentiments of the power structure of the status quo of this state? Look folks, no one has their foot on your neck anymore but keep in mind that this power structure isn’t going to just turn the keys to the house over without a fight. There has never been a better time than now to get involved.

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“Pick a job you like and you’ll never have to work a day in your life.’.”

TEEN CHATon Role

By Fawn Aberson

Models

Using these role models as motivational speakers, young people are encouraged, shown access and given advice to work through their own challenges.

They also have a chance to ask questions and give/get feedback.

Aloha High School Students

Cheyenne Schroeder

I chose entertainer because I look up to artists like Taylor Swift and other musicians.

Most of the artists I listen to inspire me to do the right things.

Kevin Kashoro

Part of Flossin Media’s work

Professional athletes inspire me the most because they do things that most people can’t do. Most of them come from rough backgrounds and they give so much back to their communities.

The Role Model Summit brings ex and current professional athletes, entertainers,CEOs, entrepreneurs, politicians, educators, health care providers and civil servants into high schools around the country.

Here they influence, encourage and educate youth in inspirational ways.

Brian Silvery

over the past several years has been with a series of events we produce called the Role Model Summit.

We asked teens from various high schools that hosted the summit, ‘what role models do they admired the most and why?’

The following are some of their answers.

flossin Magazine Vol. 10 No. 1 - 6

I ranked business/entrepreneurs my #1 because I admire people that can make something out of nothing. I admire teacher because they will shape and affect many kids’ lives. I admire musicians because I love to play guitar and listen to music - it inspires me and helps me through bad days.

Willamina High School Students

Ida Aaron

I chose the health care first because that’s what I want to be when I grow up. I want to be able to help people and still use my profession elsewhere.

On of my teachers has a poster that says ‘pick a job you like and you’ll never have to work a day in your life.’

Ali Mitchell

I picked business as the most admired because I see myself as being a strong businesswoman, making my goals in life and being head strongtaking command.

Cameron Heilman

My choice is entertainers, especially actors.

It comes from my enthusiasm for theater and other various forms of performing arts. I just see something satisfying about dressing up in odd costumes and speaking in odd fashion for the entertainment of the audience.

Sheridan High School Students

Lindsey Anderson

Politicians are my role models because it takes a lot of hard work and dedication to make a change in this world. They want the best for everyone and will go as far as it takes to do that. I admire their passion and hard work. I want to be able to make a difference.

I’m going to make a change! Lindsey Anderson…Remember the name!

Taylor Lyon

The military was never really important to me until my best friend /cousin enrolled in the Army. Having Lyle leave was the hardest thing ever. But, it opened my eyes and made me realize how brave he and every soldier are. I am so very thankful for everything the military has done.

Reynolds High School Maria Elias I chose Police because thanks to them we are safe and protected.

Bacngoc Tong I want to help people. I chose health care as my most admirable role model because health is very important for everyone. If you are strong, your life will be happy. I am trying to get a good education and become a doctor.

Rebecca Soots Military, are to me, some of the most important people that live in the United States. I’m 17 years old and all my life I grew up in the boy scouts and I was taught that the people who formed this country were not the “man in charge’ but the men on the frontline. When I walk down the street and I see those soldiers in uniform, I walk up to them and shake their hand and thank them for forming this country.

Latoya Rankins I think that educators are the most influential people. They teach others what they need to know to survive in the real world. Teachers are why I am here today.

Jazmin Monae Webster I admire entertainers. I would love to be an actress and or singer because I am very passionate about both. They fill my heart with so much joy and love. Music can really change a person’s life for the better, I know for a fact because it saved mine.

Christopher A Wolf

I choose business entrepreneur as my most admired role model because I like math. I like to manage things and set plans and stick to them. I also want to try the stock market and give advice to people who need it.

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FLOSSIN’ PUBLISHING OFFICE

P.O. Box 12185 Portland, Oregon 97212 P: 971.388.3117 FLOSSIN Inc.Corporate Office 5440 Louie Lane Suite 102 Reno, NV 89511 P: 775.853.4714 F: 775.853.4718

Contributors

www.FlossinMedia.com

FLOSSIN Magazine Volume 10 Issue #1

John Washington

VP/Executive Editor Fawn Aberson

Creative Director Diana Barrows

Web Director Randy Schless

Staging Director Events Randal J. Faber

Marketing and Advertising Sales Jesse Neel

Contributing Writers Billie Jo Clark Chris Ilagan David Olver Dr. Algie C.Gatewood Jo Ann Boweman Johnny Lake Monique Hayward Travis Pollanz

Cover Photography Pete Souza

Contributing Photography Adrian Adel Peter Kim Pete Souza/Whitehouse

Legal Kivel and Howard, LLP

Subscription and advertising rates For subscription and advertising rates and information, please call FLOSSIN Publishing Office at 971-388-3117 or log on to www.FLOSSINmedia.com. All advertising is subject to approval before acceptance. FLOSSIN Magazine reserves the right to refuse any ad for any reason whatsoever. FLOSSIN Magazine assumes no responsibility for claims made by advertisers. All views expressed in all articles are those of the authors/feature and are not necessarily those of FLOSSIN Magazine. All letters, pictures, bios and their content sent to FLOSSIN Magazine become the sole property of FLOSSIN Magazine and may be used and published by FLOSSIN Magazine without obligation and liability to the author thereof. ©2005 FLOSSIN Magazine Inc. FLOSSIN Magazine is a Nevada Corporation. Any reproduction in whole or in part without express written consent is prohibited and will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law.

Who and what is FLOSSIN Media?

FLOSSIN Media is a powerhouse that owns and operates within Print, Video, Epic Events, Street Teams, Graphic Design, Digital Distribution, Online Social Marketing and Apparel Outlets. FLOSSIN Media is an integrated marketing communications company specializing in strategically marketing to businesses and consumers in the multicultural market place. If you have a production need within this scope, please call us at 971-388-3117 FLOSSIN as an evolved urban term means: TO SHINE. It is a reflection of your inner-self demonstrated in your outer world.

The FLOSSIN Mission: To bring to light an existing formula for good living. It is an awakening, spiritual in nature. Its essence is to educate and inspire our readers and viewers through highlighting the diversified lifestyles of successful people.

FLOSSIN MAGAZINE  Vol. 10 No. 1

CEO/Editor-in-Chief

Editor & Chief John Washington

VP of Production Fawn Aberson

Art Director Diana Barrows

Photography Peter Kim Current and past issues of FLOSSIN Magazine are now available for download on the Apple i-Phone for only $1.99 per issue.

Look for the FLOSSIN App Today.

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W

What is it that makes an

hile there are many signs read by economists and pundits that can foretell the end of a downturn -- retail sales, orders for durable goods, the mood of the investor class, and the like – the true health of the economy is measured in jobs. And by that metric, the recovery has yet to begin.

...“There’s no reason to feel that you have no control over your situation or your future.”

Many Americans – too many – are still out of work. And the reality is that even when the recovery begins – when the economy starts adding jobs rather than losing them – many of the jobs that once formed the backbone of the American working class won’t be there anymore. For the most part, middle-class Americans no longer work in factories, or in lumber mills, or in steel mills. For decades now, we have been transitioning away from a manufacturingbased economy to a “post-industrial,” service-based economy.

to gainful employment, upward economic mobility, and professional satisfaction. And community colleges have historically been the most affordable and accessible means of entry into the world of higher education.

But viewed through the prism of today’s economic difficulties, community college is even more of a positive resource than it historically has been. People who are out of work often don’t have the luxury of taking a longer-term approach to education. People need jobs sooner rather than later, and in many cases community college is exactly the right solution.

Take the health care industry, for example.

According to the State of Oregon, health services is one of the fastest-growing fields in the Portland area. At Portland Community College’s Cascade Campus, where I am campus president, students can earn a certificate in Medical Assisting or Phlebotomy in as little as 12 months.

With a slightly longer time investment, So those determined and motivated citizens students can earn professional certificates or two-year degrees in such fields of study who are currently unable to find gainful as Medical Laboratory Technology, Health employment face a dilemma. Where do Information Management, and Ophthalmic you obtain the marketable skills necessary Laboratory Technology, to name a few. to hop on the recovery bandwagon once jobs start to become more available?

Of course, these are but some of the many How do you train to participate in the options available at Cascade Campus and forthcoming energy and transportation other community college campuses around infrastructure projects envisioned by the region. In many cases, students can fully the Obama administration? How do you prepare for entry into a gainful occupation prepare to enter a career in a cutting-edge in two years of study or less. And as has and in-demand field? always been the case, you can elect to transfer to a four-year college or university The answer to all these questions is the if you have your sight set even higher on the same -- community college, of course. educational ladder. The best way to learn more about your options is to visit your In one respect, this answer is no surprise. local community college campus and make Higher education has long been the path

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2

warrior

U.S. A

rmy Sgt. 1st Class Marques Daniels, 31, is in the prime of his life both personally and professionally. The past two years have been the culmination of a lifetime spent striving for and reaching personal goals. In addition to his role as a successful station commander at the Beaverton Army Recruiting Station, he has also established himself as an award winning Soldier and a budding professional mixed martial artist.

In late October, Daniels received a phone call from Command

Sgt. Maj. Kenneth Crow, Portland Army Recruiting Battalion Command Sergeant Major, telling him to pack his bags for a trip to the U.S. Army Recruiting Command (USAREC ) Annual Leadership Training Conference (ALTC) in Tampa, FL. Daniels would be attending as the 6th Recruiting Brigade’s Station Commander of the Year nominee. For the people who know him, it was no surprise that Daniels left the national competition with the trophy.

The ceremony in Tampa was broadcast live across the USAREC network, and a packed conference room at Portland Recruiting Battalion headquarters erupted in applause when the announcement was made.

“It’s fantastic news, but it’s no surprise, really,” said Crow. “He earned his trip there and he deserves it.”

Daniels is no stranger to winning awards.

“Back when I was a private first class, I heard about the Audie Murphy Award,” said Daniels. “I set a goal to get that award way back then, and I achieved it in August of 2008.”

Sgt. Marques Daniels

Daniels also earned the title of 6th Brigade NonCommissioned Officer (NCO) of the Year in 2008.

“I remember when I won that award,” said Daniels. “That year, my station got 96 percent combined, and I thought pretty highly of myself. Then Col. Patrick Walsh [at that time, the 6th Recruiting Brigade Commander] took me aside and explained that while our achievements were noteworthy, I couldn’t simply rest on my laurels. He challenged me to make an even bigger statement and hit 130 percent.”

By Charles Glenn

That conversation served as motivation for Daniels to try and take it to the next level. “That’s just me,” he grinned. “I tend to respond to that kind of challenge.”

Daniels’ career as a mixed martial artist has undoubtedly contributed to his stellar level of physical fitness. He achieved his personal best earlier this year by scoring over 100 in each event, with a total score of 370, one of the highest scores possible.

A martial artist from the age of 29, he has dabbled in six different types of unarmed combat including Muay Thai, Brazilian Jujitsu, and American submission wrestling. Fortunately, some of the best professional mixed-martial artists in the world train in the same disciplines, so it was no surprise to his friends and family when he announced he was “going pro” last year as an officially-sponsored mixed martial arts fighter.

With seven professional fights and a combined record of 11 wins and four losses, he’s been able to successfully juggle both his duties as a Soldier and his fighting career. However, sometimes they do collide.

“In fact,” Daniels laughed. “I didn’t even know I was going to the ALTC until Sgt. Maj. Crow called me, and I told me I had a fight that weekend, so he ordered me not to get punched in the face.”

At 1 a.m., Daniels won his seventh professional fight at four minutes and six seconds in the first round by rear naked choke. Three hours later he boarded a plane and flew to Tampa, where he would accept his award. Like a good Soldier, he had followed orders and had no cuts or bruises on his face.

While 2008 and 2009 have been stellar, he has no plans of slowing down in the future. Setting goals and achieving them is what Daniels preaches to his Soldiers, and it’s what he does with

his life.

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Dougy_Center_Grieving_Families_Find_Hope_and_the Capacity_to Heal

By Lexi Benington

In the early 1980s Beverly Chappell, a registered nurse

working in the area of death and dying, met Dougy Turno, a 13 year old boy suffering from an inoperable brain tumor.

Chappell marveled at Dougy’s very curious need to understand more about death and grieving. She was moved by his wisdom and thirst for life as well as his compassion for those around him going through similar traumas of dying. Dougy never got to see his 14th birthday, but upon his death Chappell felt inspired to start support groups for grieving children and their families. She held earlier meetings right in her own home’s family room and because of the overwhelming response from those in need, decided to expand her vision and incorporate the Dougy Center in 1982.

Written and created by Dougy Center Staff these two books, 35 Ways to Help a Grieving Child and Helping Children Cope with Death, are wonderful messages of hope for any child dealing with the loss of a loved one. All proceeds go directly to the Dougy Center.

After the fire.

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In the early 1980s Beverly Chappell, a regis-

tered nurse working in the area of death and dying, met Dougy Turno, a 13 year old boy suffering from an inoperable brain tumor.

Chappell marveled at Dougy’s very curious need to understand more about death and grieving.

She was moved by his wisdom and thirst for life as well as his compassion for those around him going through similar traumas of dying. Dougy never got to see his 14th birthday, but upon his death Chappell felt inspired to start support

groups for grieving children and their families. She held earlier meetings right in her own home’s family room and because of the overwhelming response from those in need, decided to expand her vision and incorpo rate the Dougy Center in 1982.

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Today, through over 27 years filled with stories from grieving children and families, the Dougy Center has provided a safe haven that ignites the hope and healing process for those who have lost loved ones to death. So, when an arsonist created a fire destroying their main facility in April of 2009,

BOOK REMARKS

it dealt a particularly low blow to already emotionally complex work. “It is another layer of grief for those who are already dealing with so much grief.” Shared Marcia Director, Executive Director for the Dougy Center. But, true to the principles in which the Dougy Center was founded, volunteers and staff are determined to carry on their meaningful work. Relocating to temporary facilities, juggling schedules and doubling even tripling up office spaces, they haven’t missed a group session yet.

With five full time staff members and over 175 trained volunteers, the Dougy Center has help to start program development training in over 160 centers nationally and internationally. It has evolved ground breaking work like their Peer Support groups. Marcia Director explains, “It is not counseling. In the Peer Support groups, our volunteers don’t question, probe or give advice, rather we do what is called Refreshing. For example, a child might say, ‘My father was hit by a train and he died.’ Instead of asking how that happened or ask them to tell you more about that, the volunteer is trained to use refreshing techniques saying, ‘Oh your father was hit by a train.’ By repeating back to them what they have said, it encourages them to say more without feeling pressured.”

This technique was of great help for a then 13 year-old Brennan Wood when she first showed up at the Dougy Center nearly 22 years ago. “My mom died of breast cancer three days after my twelfth birthday and I was devastated. It was a little less than a year later that my Dad heard of the Dougy Center. He asked me if I wanted to go and I said absolutely. I was having a really difficult time because not only had I lost my mom, but my Dad really wasn’t available either having just lost his wife.” Other friends and family tried to help Wood the best they could but they really didn’t know

how. Joining the Peer Support group helped Wood feel some sense of normalcy again.

“The Dougy Center really saved my life.

Aside from being able to relate to other kids going through the same thing; I also appreciated the adult interaction. It was good to have older people who could be there for me at a time when my Dad couldn’t. It was a place that let me have my feelings, without trying to fix me, cure me or even take away my pain; they just let me express what I was going through.”

That doesn’t ever completely go away, there are many times that I still long for my mom, but I learned to bring that loss into my world in a different way. With the help I received at the Dougy center, I discovered that I have within myself the capacity to heal and to get through the most incredibly difficult thing that a person can go through. It is what we have and continue to strive to instill in the thousands of kids and families who come to the Dougy center each year.”

With all of their much needed efforts it is amazing to note that The Dougy Center does not charge a fee for their services nor do they receive government funding or insurance reimbursements. They rely solely on individual donations. They plan to rebuild their facilities with the help and contributions of those who feel inspired to give of their time and or financial gifts.

If you would like to help or find out more about the Dougy Center you can visit www. dougy.org.

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BOOK REMARKS

CHRIS DREAMS BIG

Chris Dudley speaks with Aloha High School Students at Flossin Media’s Role Model Summit

By Chris Dudley

F

ormer NBA basketball star Chris Dudley is well known for his philanthropic contribution to many great causes but his work through the Chris Dudley foundation with childhood diabetes is especially meaningful to him. At 16, he was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes (the most severe).

Dudley recalls, “It was a very troubling time for me right before I found out I had diabetes because I just didn’t know what was going on with my body. I had all of the classic symptoms; being thirsty all of the time and what not, my body was doing some crazy things. My dad recalls the first questions I asked the doctor when he gave us my diagnosis was, ‘Am I going to die?’ and ‘Can I still play basketball?’ fortunately the answer to the first was no and the later yes.”

Chris not only continued to play high school basketball but went on to play for Yale University while simultaneously earning degrees in economics and political science. From there, his remarkable focus netted him a career in the NBA where he remained competitive for 16 years.

With a compassion that those around him have come to respect and love, Dudley used his basketball career to help build platforms of hope for those in need, working particularly around the issues facing young people with diabetes.

In an effort to ease the pain and fear that other young people and their families experience with the condition, Dudley started a basketball camp for kids with this disease. “With type 1 diabetes you have to take shots. It is a disease we have 365 days a year 24/7, we never get a break from it. When these kids come to our camp, it is not only a time for them to have fun and connect with others kids going through the same issues, it is often the first time in a long time some of Eight year old Ginger, a diabetes patient, with her Mom Carla Netten flossin Magazine Vol. 10 No. 1 - 16

their parents have gotten to sleep through the night as opposed to waking up their child to be tested.”

With the encouragement and collaboration of his wife Chris Love-Dudley and talented illustrator Karl Edwards, the former NBA star put out the book Chris Dreams Big. A children’s book, it was created to help young kids and their parents stay hopeful in light of a recent diabetes diagnosis.

Carla Netten, an advocate for JDRF, Desert Southwest Chapter and parent of a type I diabetic, recalls her initial take away from the book. “When I read Chris Dreams Big with my 8 year-old daughter Ginger (diagnosed as type I diabetic at age 5), we were both touched by the theme of not letting an obstacle get in the way of your dreams. It is important to me that my daughter believes she can accomplish anything she wants and that in doing so she can empower others to face their challenges. Compassion is another theme in the book that is important to us. I try to remind Ginger that there are many different challenges for all the people around her, and that these challenges are not excuses for failure but opportunities for even greater success.

We have had books given to us by her doctors and by the JDRF in the past, but while those were more educational about daily life with type I diabetes, Chris Dreams Big focused more on the message of no limitations just because of diabetes.

I’d like to see this book given to every newlydiagnosed child. It has a wonderful message!”

BOOK REMARKS

Dudley is encouraged by parents like Netton to carry on his work through messages of hope and inspiration. He continues his own “Dream Big” philosophy with new business ventures and projects after life in the NBA. Still, he remains dedicated to helping kids with diabetes take control of their lives, letting them know that they too can achieve great things.

You can Purchase Chris Dreams BIG for $14.95 at www.chrisdudley.org or emailing your request to info@chrisdudley.org all proceeds go directly to his foundation.

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BOOK REMARKS

Flossin book remarks

YINSIGHTS A Journey into the Philosophy & Practice of Yin Yoga

By Bernie Clark

A very powerful book for people who are seeking some intensive growth that goes beyond the physical practice of yoga. Microscopic in nature, Yinsights is a collection of research and practice done by author Bernie Clark that looks deeply into both the anatomy and spiritual energy of our bodies. The tone is best set by an excerpt from the introduction that speaks of the differences between being a “Yangster” or a “Yinster” . “Yang refers to things that are higher and brighter, to actions that are more forceful and dynamic. For many people, yang is their favorite way to live, and the only way they know how to live. But…it is not the only way. Yin always exists as a complement to yang. Yin refers to things that are lower and calmer, to actions that are passive and yielding.” The author likens Yang to climbing a mountain and Yin to the flow of a great river.

Physical, spiritual and energy techniques are finely dissected in this book and the serious reader will take away a new appreciation for self and others.

GANGBUSTERS Strategies for Prevention and Intervention

By Lonnie Jackson

Like cattle lining up in a slaughter house, a segment of young people have made the decision to join gangs, a choice that with almost certainty leads to their death or incarceration. Fortunately for them, there are those who have dedicated their lives to try and redirect them down healthier paths. Growing up in a gang infested area of South Central Los Angeles, author Lonnie Jackson experienced first hand the devastation gang activity had on the lives of his community. Today, in addition to being a dynamic speaker and author, Jackson is also the statewide director of Minority Services for Oregon Youth Authority and one of the dedicated. In his book Gangbusters, he outlines the factors that cause young people to join gangs in the first place, effective prevention techniques and intense rehabilitation practices for these deeply troubled youth. Outside of the benefits for people who work in the correctional field, this book is also a great tool for teachers, family members, city officials and concerned citizens that are impacted by gang behavior and invested in helping to change it. Jackson believes, “If you give youth a realistic approach to life and replace helplessness with hopefulness, there will be more successful youth than failed youth.” His progra To order a copy of Gangbusters contact American Correctional Asso ciation in L anham, Mar yland 1-800-222-5646

Yinsights is available for $23.95 and can be order by going to www.yinsights.com Lonnie Jackson shares a positive rap with high school kids at Flossin Media’s Role Model Summit flossin Magazine Vol. 10 No. 1 - 18

BOOK REMARKS EXCUSES BEGONE How to Change Lifelong, Self-Defeating Thinking Habits

By Dr. Wayne W. Dyer

Excuses, probably the most widely practiced word in the world. None of us like to hear them and yet most of us have mastered the art of making them.

According to Dr. Wayne W. Dyer, renowned author and speaker in the field of self-development, excuses

have become part of our “habituated thinking patterns” as explanations for our failures and shortcomings. But, he asks, what would our life look like if we couldn’t use these excuses? Dr. Dyer reveals how to “…change the self–defeating thinking patterns that have prevented you from living at the highest levels of success, happiness and health.”

Excuses Be Gone is an inspirational read that uses critical thinking techniques to reveal that all things

are infinitely possible.

To purchase Excuses Be Gone, go to www.drwaynedyer.com and purchase through HayHouse.com for a discounted price of $19.96.

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MONEY

Giving Is Good

When It Meets the Needs of Your Business

By Monique Hayward

5. Can you get a tax write-off?

You can’t ignore the tax benefits of charitable giving.

While many of your donations will be made “in kind” and won’t be cash out of your pocket, it still costs you money to give away your product or service. You’ll be able to declare the cash value of that contribution on your tax return. (Consult with your tax advisor about your specific situation.)

Milton Hershey, the founder of

Hershey Foods, once wrote, “One is only happy in proportion as he makes others feel happy, and only useful as he contributes his espite the current economic influences for the finer callings downturn, the tradition of entrepreneurship and philanthropy in life.” As entrepreneurs, we remains strong in the United States. experience many trials in running According to a recent study by the Heritage our businesses, but that should not Foundation, entrepreneurs are 80 percent prevent us from giving back to our more likely to contribute to charitable causes than the rest of the population. This communities. Supporting charitable suggests that not only are we motivated by causes and organizations that align more than a narrow self-interest to make with your strategy makes good the most money, but we also give the most business sense because it allows back to our communities. you to increase your visibility and stature in the community, create Knowing that you’re already likely to support them, a vast array of non-profits, a positive perception with your booster clubs, fundraising committees, and customers and supporters, and charities with worthy causes will ask you build a reputation for being a good to donate money or volunteer your time. corporate citizen. Be kind and With so many requests, it is impossible for compassionate and more business you to support everyone who asks for help. will come your way.

D Monique Hayward and her new book Divas Doing Business.

...“Entrepreneurs are 80 % more likely to contribute to charitable causes than the rest of the population.”

1. Does the request align with

causes and issues you advocate and support?

Causes that you’re already passionate about will generally make their way to the top of your priority list.

2. Are the people in this organization already supporting your business?

When people contact me looking for a donation, they get my attention if they personalize the correspondence and start by saying,

As with all aspects of your business, when it comes to charity, you need to think strategically. Align your philanthropy with your business objectives and clearly outline your expectations with each charitable organization before agreeing to donate your time, money, product, or service. I have developed these criteria to help you assess these opportunities:

“I’m one of your customers and I follow you and your business closely.” Form letters and mass mailings almost always get tossed into the trash, even if the cause is one I support.

3. Can you promote your business to a large number of people? For fundraising events, organizations will often create flyers, programs, and other marketing materials where they advertise the names of their supporters. These pieces usually have life beyond the day

of the event as keepsakes and souvenirs. There may also be opportunities to participate in the event itself, such as speaking to the audience for a few minutes about the business.

4. Have you contributed to this organization before and did you achieve good results? History with an organization is a good predictor of future donations. If the organization helped promote your business and you gained new customers as a result, then you probably will continue to support it.

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About the writer: Monique Hayward has over 15 years experience in marketing, communications, PR and business development. As both a corporate executive and business owning entrepreneur, she has shared her expertise as a contributing writer and interviewee for mainstream media like CNN, Black Enterprise, The Oregonian and more. Former owner of Dessert Noir Café & Bar, an award winning restaurant, she was selected as a winner in the 2008 Make Mine a Million $ Business Program. She has recently written a book about some of her experiences entitled, DIVAS DOING BUSINESS What the GuidebooksDon’t Tell You about Being a Woman Entrepreneur with the foreword by her friend and mentor, actor Morgan Freeman. Putting her own philanthropic practices into application, Hayward donates a portion of the book’s sales proceeds to PLAN!T NOW (www.planitnow.org), which is Morgan Freeman’s charity that provides information and assistance for victims of natural disasters.

In her book Hayward shares, “Once you start to see the idea that you originally brainstormed on a napkin over lunch with a girlfriend become and actual living, breathing business you’ll feel a tremendous sense of accomplishment and satisfaction. You’ll realize you’ve joined the ranks of the few people in this world who decide to bring a dream to life and take on the personal, professional and financial risks to make it happen.” The book is a compelling look at the drama, trauma, revelations and triumphs of being a business woman in today’s economic enterprising landscape. You can find out more about Monique Hayward and order her book, Divas Doing Business, by visiting www.moniquehayward.com. The book can also be found under the books section of www.amazon.com

MONEY

the top

five influencers on your credit

How Credit Works and When to Pass on the Perfume: The road to understanding and building good credit can be full of potholes, stop signs and sometimes even fender benders. There are enticing offers from credit

companies which may lead you to believe that you can have whatever you like, right now. While some of these offers justifiably help build your credit history, (i.e. car payments, mortgage or credit cards), buying into too many of these temptations can detour you far away from a healthy credit score. Case Study, MYSELF. At 20 years old I had been in the work force for approximately two years. This showed stability, an indicator that credit card companies looked for in a person when granting revolving credit, (credit that does not have a fixed number of payments.) One day I decided to go shopping. With only about 50 dollars, I wound up at the perfume counter where I noticed they had a special on my favorite perfume. As I eyed the beautiful bottle, sprayed my wrists, and let the aroma engulf me, I realized that if I fell to temptation and purchased the perfume, it was going to cost me most of what I had in my pocket. Feeling a little sad, I turned to walk away when an eager sales associate said, “Wait! Do you have a credit card?” I told her “No”, and she responded with, “All you have to do is fill out this application, and I will check to see if you qualify for our store credit card, plus it could give you 10% off today.” Have it today and cheaper? What a wonderful thought. “How much will I get?” I asked, and she smiled saying, “Usually the minimum amount is around $250, but because you have had a job for a while you may get more.” The twinkle in my eye came back to life and I quickly scribbled down my information. To my delight, I was approved. Not only did I receive a generous amount on that first credit card, but I repeated this process at several other department stores that same day! I had simultaneously launched my journey into retail shopping therapy and credit card catastrophe. As credit

10% Recent Credit

continued on f page 26

10%

Types of Credit

Applications

35% Payment History

15%

Length of credit history

30% Debt Load

Billie Jo Clark

1. 35% of your credit is based upon -Payment History -Making

your payments on time is the biggest part of your credit score so having 30, 60, or 90 day late pays can lower your score significantly.

2. 30% of your credit is based upon -Debt Load -This is how much debt

you owe versus how much money you make. A rule of thumb says that about 20% debt of your total income rates as excellent and anything above the 30% zone starts throwing up red flags.

3. 15% of your credit is based

upon -Length of credit history -The length of time you have had your accounts open is 15% of your credit score. The longer your accounts are open the better.

4. 10% of your credit is based upon-Recent Credit Applications -This is how many people have

checked your credit because you have applied for charge cards or loans. Also known as inquiries, to many of these can lower your credit score.

5. 10% of your credit is based upon -Types of credit -Having

different types of credit such as auto or home loans (instalment credit) in addition to a charge card (revolving credit) is good because it shows a balanced credit history.

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MUSIC

When words become that meet

by FM

25

ye ars ago ac tiv i st Harry Belafonte along with fundraiser Ken Kragen enlisted Lionel Richie to create a song for an album to be released called, We are the World. The song, with the same title of the album, would be sold in order to raise money for African famine relief, a cause that had garnered a great deal of media spotlight. Richie enlisted musical icon Michael Jackson to help co-write the song and Quincy Jones and Michael Omartian to co-produce it. Recorded in 1985 by a super group of then top pop artist including Jackson, Richie, Kenny Rogers, Stevie Wonder, Cyndi Lauper and others, We are the World, became a huge success and was hailed for its ability to unite a diverse group of people around a single vision. Achieving and surpassing the goals it set out to accomplish when it was created, the We are the World campaign has since raised over $63 million for humanitarian causes.

deeds needs

ďƒ™ International superstar Lionel Richie brings back We are the World, a song he co-wrote with the late Michael Jackson, for another legacy of world awareness and healing.

In January of 2010 Richie and Jones had planned to remake the song as a tribute to its 25 year anniversary, but their efforts were promptly halted and redirected after the devastating 7.0 earthquake that hit the

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MUSIC

already impoverished countr y of Haiti.

QUINCY JONES

In an interview with Oprah a week after the devastation, recording star and Haiti native, Wyclef Jean, shared his video coverage and first hand account of the devastation of his homeland. Though visibly distraught, he remained inspired by his people’s resolve telling Oprah, “You know what I thought

Renowned artist Tony Bennett performs a solo in the remake of We are the World

The Legendary Quincy Jones  stands with the Lifetime Achievement Award from ASCAP last year. As the co-producer of both We are the World projects, he has been instrumental in its successes. while I’m watching this footage is, I remember every night they were singing. You can hear them chanting and still singing the words of God — it’s unexplainable. The thing about the Haitian people is their ... determination.”

With death tolls rising to nearly 200,000 and the capitol, Port-au-Prince, all but destroyed, the power of We are the World had new cause for its words to become deeds that would meet needs.

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MUSIC

Haitian-born  musician, rapper, and producer Wyclef Jean has become an ambassador of aid to his devastated homeland leading the charge of Hope for Haiti.

 Haitians have never experienced an earthquake in living memory. Many wer seen walking the streets shocked and dazed.

“You know what I thought while I’m watching this footage is, I remember every night they were singing. You can hear them chanting and still singing the words of God — it’s unexplainable.

The thing about the Haitian people is their ... determination.”

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MUSIC

QUINCY JONES

Richie and Jones united their efforts with Jean to bring aid to the forlorn country and a new version of We are the World was quickly recreated and recorded on February 1, 2010. It enlisted the help of over 75 diverse musicians, including Janet Jackson, who duetted with a recording of her late brother Michael, Barbara Streisand, LL Cool J, Wyclef Jean, Tony Bennett, Pink, Justin Bieber, Jennifer Hudson, Celine Dion, Jamie Foxx and many others. As with the circumstances of 25 years earlier, most of the participating musicians were already in Los Angeles to attend the Grammy Awards. The new version of We are the World features updated lyrics and music, as well as a rap segment pertaining to Haiti.

The world premier of this new version debuted during the opening ceremonies of the 2010 Winter Olympics and the broadcast sent out a powerful reverb of inspiration and unity.

Destruction ďƒ™ and devistation in Haiti after the earthquake.

Proceeds from the record will aid survivors of the Haiti tragedy and hopefully its legacy will, once again, be the magic that connects deeds to needs.

To download the song and or to make a donation, go to We are the World Foundation website http://wearetheworldfoundation.org/

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MUSIC

...“Financial literacy is a learned behavior but who is teaching it?.” card offers flooded in, I applied to my hearts content and soon was living the high life. I COULD BUY WHAT EVER I WANTED. I kept wondering the whole time why hadn’t my parents just put everything on credit cards? I would have been the best dressed kid in school securing my popularity and future all at once. It wasn’t long before I was smacked with the ugly truth aka THE BILLS. I hadn’t taken the time to learn until too late that the higher my balances got the higher my payments got. Soon I was swimming in debt and even worse, I got laid off unable to make even the smallest of payments. As bill collectors hounded me and my credit score took a nose dive, I wanted to crawl under the covers and hide.

This was not the way things were supposed to be. Why didn’t someone warn me?

Financial literacy is a learned behavior but who is teaching it? Parents? The school system? I for one hadn’t learned from either source and now it was up to me to be a wise consumer and figure out how to get back on track. It took about eight long years, but I finally managed to wipe my slate clean and reverse the damaging effects of my ignorance.

Playing the credit game can be mastered, even while having SOME of the things you want right now, but it starts with understanding what exactly makes up your credit and determines your score.

About the author: Billie Jo Clark is a speaker and educator in the fields of finance literacy. Currently working for Reliant Financial Corporation out of Fullerton, California, she can field any credit related questions through email at info@flossinmedia.com attention Billie Jo Clark

Matt Cusson Impulsive Singer/songwriter Matt Cusson has some pretty good impulse reflexes.

I am not talking about karate or taekwondo; though he very well may, I don’t know. No, I am talking about his impulse reflexes to seize moments that have led to life changing events and career building transitions.

Let me explain. While attending Berklee College of Music in Boston, one of his music directors called him up and asked if he would like to meet the great R&B crooner/composer Brian McKnight, who was in town for the night. Cusson’s impulse reflex led him say ‘yes.’ Most of you are probably saying, ‘Yeah, no brainer.’

But, there is more. While visiting with McKnight, Cusson impulsively decided to play a little something for McKnight on the piano. (Cusson’s is a naturally gifted, self taught, play by ear pianist since the age of eight, much to the chagrin of his classically taught piano teaching mother.)

McKnight was so impressed with what he heard the he made Cusson an offer to fly to McKnight’s home in LA and start writing music with him.

Impulse decision time, “I dropped out of school literally that night.”

Cusson laughed.

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Fawn Aberson Cusson has sinceBytraveled the world

touring with McKnight as well as other great headliners like Christina Aguilera focally refining and perfecting his talent.

“Brian McKnight has been an unbelievable mentor; he has shown me the world.

Every time I play with him I learn something new because he is so good at what he does.”

Ah but the impulses don’t stop here.

While sitting with a friend one day who was filling out an application for the John Lennon Songwriting Contest, Cusson made the split decision to enter as well.

“I entered two songs, including one that I had started three years ago when I was at a very dark point of my life. I cleaned it up and fine tuned it. It was one of those songs that came out exactly the way I heard it in my head and that doesn’t happen a lot, especially when you don’t have a lot of money to put behind it.”

Cusson sent off his two submissions, Every Step for R&B category and One of Those Nights for the Jazz category, and as months went by without a word, he figured his impulse decision to enter had netted him zip.

MUSIC

Cusson’s advices for those looking for their own Cusson’s advices for those looking for their own formula for success in the music writing category are these: photo by arthur khaos

1. Listen to a lot of music, even the stuff you don’t like.

2. Do everything, whether that is singing background, playing an instrument at church or playing at Madison Square Garden you have to experience as much as you can.

3. Keep in touch with everybody you meet, that’s what I have done for ten years and it has paid off.

4. Don’t be afraid to enter things like song writing contest because even if you don’t win, you’re getting your name out there and somebody is listening to your song.

Later that year while on tour with McKnight, the concert

was called to a halt for an announcement for Cusson to come front and center. “Matt Cusson has an incredible gift.”

Stated McKnight who then proceeded to reveal that Cusson had won the Lennon Contest’s top prize, Maxell Song of the Year for his Jazz submission, One of Those Nights. He was presented with a $20,000 check courtesy of Maxell Corporation by McKnight, Brian Rothschild-Executive Director of the contest and Maxell’s President, Mr. Kamemoto.

When asked if the impulse decision he had to enter the contest resulted in a transformation of his life Cusson stated, “Well, the publicity for the award is incredible, Billboard Magazine, Forbes, CNBC [and of course Flossin] and many others have given me some wonderful plugs. I feel more respected by a lot of people and it is just one of those great stepping stones on the way up.”

Matt Cusson is still touring, composing music for himself and writing for others. His first CD titled Matt Cusson, which includes his two contest submissions, is currently in circulation and doing well. As his gut instincts continue to propel him upward I can’t help but think of the Goethe quote that says, “Be bold and mighty forces will come to your aid.” Good stuff. flossin magazine Vol. 10 No. 1 - 27

MUSIC

TONY OZIER

Put Your Ones Up for the Doo Doo Funk!

By Chris Ilagan

I decided to catch some live music one evening, and randomly selected a group called Tony Ozier and the Doo Doo Funk All-Stars. Initially, it was clear they were a talented band of musicians. Then, they kicked it up a notch and blew my mind! The keyboardist switched to the drums, the drummer switched to the bass, and the bassist switched to the keyboard.

And they played these instruments just as well as their previous ones. I became a Doo Doo Funk All-Stars fan for life.

In September of 2007, Tony Ozier arrived in Portland to a rather inconspicuous R&B scene. He took the initiative to meet other like-minded musicians, and over the course of two years assembled a wildly talented group. Where did the name “Doo Doo Funk All-Stars” originate?

What is Doo Doo Funk? The Funk is a groove or vibe that transcends definition. It’s more of a feeling. And what is the “funkiest” thing you can think of? It’s Doo Doo! The All-Stars are the chosen ones that bring life to the Doo Doo Funk. The players and singers embrace their roles, perform to the best of their abilities and pour their emotions and souls into every note. Some of the

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All-Stars perform with other musicians as well. “I’m part of a community of musicians who all cover for each other”, explains Tony.

He assists not only with background vocals and/or keyboard parts, but also with his knowledge and experience in the music production process.

Up to this point in time, the All-Stars may be Portland’s best-kept funky secret, but it is evident they will not remain a secret for long. They have teamed up with local R&B powerhouse vocalist Liv Warfield on many occasions, including an incredible display over the 2009 4th of July weekend. And you can catch them flexing their musical muscles at the Dookie Jam, three times a month at the Calabash and once a month at the Someday Lounge. Any musician or vocalist can come up and strut their stuff onstage, and many of Portland’s elite players participate as well.

I asked Tony what advice he would give to young artists that are just starting out. At the top of the list was the need for these artists to play at least one instrument. “If you sing, there won’t always be someone else around to play your music.” Next, an artist should seek to collaborate with other artists for growth. “You can only aspire to a certain level on your own. At some point, you have to get yourself in a different environment so you can learn new things.” Finally, an artist must have a genuine passion for music and have fun.

Tony’s group is working on a new album, which is tentatively set for release in the spring of 2010. Until then, go purchase Tony’s solo album, “Aural Penetration”, on iTunes. Better yet, buy it directly from Tony at a show. Once you experience the Doo Doo Funk live, you will never look at R&B the same way again.

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New Seasons Health Products

The decision to eat healthier crosses the minds of millions of people every day but putting that decision in action is a whole different challenge.

Maybe you are not ready to give up the chips and dip completely or toss that hot dog down the garbage disposal, but incorporating some of the following products into your diet can get you headed in the right direction. You can find these at places like New Season’s Market, which offers natural and conventional products side by side making choosing healthy a little easier.

Fish oil, like Flax Oil, is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids.

Hemp Milk is a great non-dairy beverage containing vitamins and minerals, including B12, D2, and Riboflavin. It also contains 46% of your daily required calcium.

Kale is a leafy green powerhouse vegetable, packed with calcium, lutein, iron, and vitamins A, C, & K. It has 10 times the betacarotene of broccoli and is high in fiber—something we could all use a little more of..

Emergen-C is a fizzy drink packet containing vitamins and antioxidants.

Flax Oil is one of nature’s richest sources of omega-3 fatty acids..

Almonds are a heart-healthy nut that serve as a great source of Vitamin E, protein, and calcium.

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Celebrating African American History and the Pursuit of Stability and Sustainability for All People of Color in the State of Oregon.

Oregon Northwest Black Pioneers

NAACP Greggery Peterson, President of the Salem- Keizer NAACP

says that there chapter will make a re-energized commitment to the community. “We have pretty much been an absent presence for the past decade and we are going to change that by establishing new relationships and a stronger presence.” Peterson points out that with the NAACP celebrating over 100 years in action and our nation celebrating our first African-American President, that there is no better time to accomplish their goals. “We can’t forget what it took it to reach those milestones and we can’t begin to think that the job is done, this is the beginning of a new era.”

The chapter has been following closely the state of Oregon’s summit on the disproportionate representation of minority youth in the welfare and prison systems and its connection to the drop out rate in the schools. Findings from this summit indicate that 50% of the minority/multiethnic youth that drop out of high school end up in the justice system. “Needless to say this year’s number-one priority for Salem Keizer NAACP is attacking the dropout rate in our schools,” Stated Peterson. “In February, we focused our energy on the No Child Left Behind Conference at McKay High School, informing parents on the issues and mandate associated with this act. We discussed the pros and cons of the mandate in order to help students to be more successful in graduating from high school, being better prepared for college and to graduate from college.”

The Chapter is calling for action to support their efforts and acknowledges that success will depend upon their partnerships with families and businesses in the community.

“There has been a history of failure in minority communities around this subject and we have to raise the bar; if we raise the bar for this group then the whole of society reaps the success.”

To be part of the NAACP Salem Keizer branch you can contact their President Greggery Peterson at 503-566-8876.

is a nonprofit whose purpose is to recognize and commemorate the contributions of pioneering African-Americans in the historical development of Oregon and Washington and to educate Oregonians about the history of AfricanAmericans in the Northwest.

To D onate or for more information, contact Willie Richardson at 503-540-4063 or

www.oregonnorthwestblackpioneers.org.

The new Portland Housing Bureau strives to honor the contributions of African Americans to Portland’s and our nation’s history and future with a commitment to equity, access and inclusion for communities of color in setting the Portland housing agenda, and in creating home for all members of our community.

Our website is: www.portlandonline.com/phb Main Resource Line:

503.823.2375 flossin magazine Vol. 10 No. 1 - 31

Smoke eye BEAUTY

What a Girl Wants With award show season in full bloom, celebutantes are hitting the red carpets in force with one popular final touch seeming to be forever in fashion- the smokey eye. But you don’t have to be a starlit of the big screen to rock this look; the smokey eye can be a great look for you whenever you want.

Benefit Cosmetics, is one of our favorite brands that can create this look. Not only do they have everything to get you started but the company, founded by twin sisters, has created one of “the friskiest luxury brand” out today- Specializing in boutique beauty with a candy store atmosphere. We recommend the Smokin Eye from Benefit - you can find it at Nordstrom, Macy’s or www.benefitcosmetics.com

Travis Pollanz is a professional stylist with over 20 years in the fa shion and beauty industr y including work done with America’s Ne xt Top Model . His talents and expertise are called upon frequently by department stores that include Macy’s, Nordstrom and Saks Fifth Avenue

• Kit contains: • eye bright

• fluff shadow/hard angle • 3 smokin’ eye shadows: brush • pink highlight shadow • tiny tweezers for • pewter base shadow 1 discreet touch-ups • deep charcoal shadow • a lesson to talk you • smokin’ liner through each step!

• brow zings shaping wax

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Authentic Dead Sea Bath Salt- $11.99 Come home after a long day and relax your body in a warm bath with rejuvenating, relaxing bath salts from The Dead Sealegendary for its rich-mineral salt. It will wash away all your stress and worries, as you immerse yourself in the waters of well being.

BEAUTY

In truth, there is little difference between the skin physiology of men and women. Skin is made up of three main layers: the epidermis, the dermis and the hypo-dermis and though men typically have a thicker epidermis and tend to produce more oil, the mechanics of the skin work very much the same for both genders.

Skincare for the Sexes: It’s Ok to Double Dip As a beauty and skincare specialist and having consulted both men and women alike, I have been asked numerous times the same question, “Will this product work for someone of the opposite gender?” My general answer is, “Yes”. Both men and women can benefit from using the same skincare regimen provided their skin types are similar.

Why then are there skincare products specifically geared for men and women?

My response is simple, “Marketing”. It is like choosing a pink toothbrush over a blue toothbrush, or vice verse.

The important thing to remember before you go dipping into your partner’s expensive cream is that you are using a product that has been designed specifically for your skin type. Skin typing is not gender specific.

Someone with oily skin using a cream or lotion meant for dry skin can be a recipe for an oily and uncomfortable mess.

Dazzle Dry Nail Polish Looking for a bolder nail polish color?

Dazzle Dry has some great unique colors to match your new found courage.

Typically skin typing is broken down into five categories. These categories are: oily, dry, normal, acne prone or combination .If you are uncertain of your skin type, and would like to know specifically what type of creams and lotions you should be using, most major department stores have a cosmetic area manned by employees who have been trained to determine your skin type free of charge. My personal picks of skincare companies for either sex are Philosophy, Osmotics, Revive, Shiseido and La Prairie.

Adovia Dead Sea Mineral hand cream will keep your hands youthful and smooth.Adovia Mineral Hand Cream $16

The Hana professional straightening iron is essential for today’s fresh look.

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FASHION

Be Jeweled Do you love to flaunt those one of a kind jewelry pieces? Then you may want to check out Beads Forever in Portland. The owner and her designers are highly knowledgeable in the gemstone craft, plus they offer some very cool classes where you can perfect your own unique style.

Beads Forever (503) 230-2323 3522 SE Hawthorne Blvd, Portland, OR 97214 www.beadsforeverportland.us

Accessories For all you NASCAR driver types, you may enjoy gripping the wheel with these fire hot red leather gloves.

We snagged these pair in NE Portland from Hot Box Betty the hot spot for fashion trends. www.hotboxbetty.com

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COMMUNITY

The Conditions

of Learning

Schools are social organizations that are not

exempt from the social conditions surrounding them. Schools do not operate in a vacuum.

Schools tend to serve to reproduce the social hierarchy from which they come. Schools do not operate as neutral or benign entities, but can and do significantly affect the communities around them, both positively and negatively.

Looking at the child and the family may be very useful in understanding what they face in our public schools, but more importantly, neither the child nor the parent oversees or runs the public schools.

Teachers in our public schools tend to be white (a set of cultural practices) and middle class and the students they are most successful with tend to be student s that operate and engage as white (a set of cultural practices) and middle class. The students they are least successful with tend to be the students who differ from them culturally, socioeconomically and racially.

Race is presented in American society as a stable and useful category and is especially salient when discussing the historic achievement gaps in student performance in public schools. There is no inherent connection that is found to be consistent between perceived race (color of face) and learning ability. We must look elsewhere than biological race to locate the conditions that continue to produce the pernicious and persistent disparity between white children and children of color in public schools.

When a set of cultural practices are employed to operate as a racial category then we find cultural practices being performed and enforced as markers of power and privilege, as well as indicators of inclusion and exclusion. Thus whiteness, as a racial category is not a biological reality. But whiteness, as a set of cultural practices and expectations, are rigidly enforced on individuals, and especially inside institutions, such as our public schools. While not a true biological reality, race is certainly a socio-historical, political and cultural reality.

It is in this social, historical, political and cultural reality where we must work if we are going to change our public schools and our society. The focus on race (color of face) as a true category confuses the issues. But whiteness (as a set of cultural practices) embodies considerable power in a white supremacist context. From the very beginning of American society whiteness was authorized and invested with great power over others not white. Whiteness became the established norm. This fact elevated whiteness as a race (color of face) and as a set of cultural practices above other races and other cultural practices.

Race (color of face and a set of cultural practices) still operates as a powerful marker and gateway to power and privilege or lack of it, in our society. This conscious and unconscious reality makes it more difficult to examine the systems and institutions that continue to perpetrate and produce perceived racial differences, as it is the long time cultural practices that more accurately represent the so-called racial categories. Until we decenter white cultural practices as the norms in our public schools and view other cultural identities as norms we will continue to see achievement gaps between children who are culturally matched to the school systems and failures for children who are culturally mismatched.

Š Johnny Lake February 2009

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Higher consciousness

Democracy Matters

By Jo Ann Bowman

As we move into the New Year, I’m encouraged to build optimism for all it will bring.

Now, when

I speak of America’s struggle for social, racial and economic

justice, I will

do so knowing of the unspeakable hardship others have faced, in order to establish these

freedoms.

You may know what it is like to move into a new town; to build new friendships, new networks … and take pleasure from places never before experienced. I’ve just discovered that sometimes it takes immersing myself in a place new to me … to fully inform me of where I come from.

Asked to deliver A People’s Plan for Economic Recovery at a conference hosted by the Chinese Peoples’ Association for Peace and Disarmament, I recently found myself deep in foreign territory.

Among the other international participants, I met several who have only lately begun to enjoy the fruits of democracy. Twice imprisoned by the South African government during apartheid, Nozizwe MadlalaRoutlegde impressed me for having attained a position in the nation’s cabinet … only five years after her country’s first democratic elections.

Sopheak Ok Serei spent his 30’s among tanks and rocket launchers along the Thai-Khmer border. As Nozizwe became South Africa’s Deputy Defence Minister, Sopeheak left his revolutionary, guerilla forces to become senior advisor to Cambodia’s Deputy Prime Minister … three years after the country adopted a constitution.

Now, when I speak of America’s struggle for social, racial and economic justice, I will do so knowing of the unspeakable hardship others have faced, in order to establish these freedoms. Nozizwe and Sopheak’s sacrifices (both are now deeply dedicated to non-violent conflict resolution) have shown me that sustained commitment can lead to tremendous, transformational change.

What struck me most profoundly about my China experiences were things I, as an American, take for granted. I expect to question elected leaders about policy decisions that negatively impact my community. China’s citizens do not.

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In fact, they cannot expect to be effectively informed.

A Chinese journalist disclosed that he writes two versions of the news: one for party leaders (which he sends his family) and another for general consumption.

He knows of YouTube, Facebook and other Internet tools; and he also knows they are banned in his country. Conference participants took testimony about a massive forced dislocation of humanity so that hydroelectricity might power China’s rise to manufacturing prominence. I would expect, should my government seek to evict 1.5 million people from their homes, a detailed public review would be called for. All the pros and cons would be discussed and resolved before the first shovel of dirt was moved. Not so in China.

Being nearly the only American in the room, and contrasting my own history with others’, I found a deeper appreciation for my situation. As I advance a call for just and sustainable economic development here at home, I will place a higher value on our opportunities for informed debate. As we learn about the realities of Congress’ attempt to reform health care, I will be thankful that … not only am I free to demand reform; I will also employ history’s newest tools to carry my voice.

By Fawn Aberson and John Washington

 Nobel Committee Chairman Thorbjorn Jagland presents President Obama with the Nobel Prize medal.

Looking back through the past year

of Barack Obama’s presidency, some notable visions come to mind. From the day he was elected the world has been watching. We sat glued to the TV for highlights from the first inaugural celebrations and were charmed by a debonair looking President and a sophisticated First Lady. We have watched a compassionate Obama openly adore

his wife and children and energetically embrace fun and fitness. Old and young, representing all races and religions, have flocked to see him, hear him, and reach out to try to touch him. From the elderly French veteran who lit up with emotion when he got to shake the President’s hand, to the young African American boy who stood mesmerized while watching Obama speak, from a crowd of Ghanaians pushing to get near him, to Muslim students in

Cairo listening intently to Obama’s promise for a ‘new beginning between the United States and Muslims.’ Obama’s magnetism became a symbol of hope and change to a world in need. The recognition and adoration got further validation when a surprising announcement came that he was to be awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his “extraordinary efforts to strengthen international diplomacy and cooperation between peoples.

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President Barack Obama and family, First Lady Michelle Obama and their daughters, Sasha and Malia 

As President Barak Obama’s first year in office came to a close, people from all over the public opinion gamut weighed in to grade his performance. Polls were taken and major issues like health care, the besieged economy and massive joblessness, terrorism and national security were dissected and debated. In the end he received marks of A’s from his supporters, a “good solid B +” from himself, as stated in his interview with Oprah Winfrey, to a glaring F from some right winged conservatives. You gotta love America In truth, leading one of the most powerful countries in the globe is a daunting task when thing are good, so in these extraordinary times of crisis, it is remarkable that someone would actually want the job. As the partisanship of the red-blue divide spins out of control, it is clear that, in galvanizing America to get through the tough issues, President Barak Obama has his work cut out for him.

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 President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama dance during the 2009 Nobel Banquet.

Interesting enough, Obama seems to be thriving on this challenge, committed to being a transformational change agent and leader.

In his first State of the Union Address he spoke, “I know the anxieties that are out there right now… These struggles are the reason I ran for President.”

With the ‘yes we can’ attitude that got him elected, he has deferred to his transformational leadership style time and time again. By definition, “this style of leader is always visible and will stand up to be counted rather than hide behind their troops.

They show by their attitudes and actions how everyone else should behave. They also make continued efforts to motivate and rally their followers, constantly doing the

 It was quite chilly on a freight elevator headed to one of the Inaugural Balls. The President offers the first Lady his coat.

The President, leaving the State Floor after an event finds Sasha in the elevator ready to head upstairs to the private residence. 

rounds, listening, soothing and enthusing.”

One of Obama’s critics, Will Marshall of the Progressive Policy Institute, even admitted, “I am impressed

by Obama’s ambition …his tenacity…he deserves extra credit for the degree of difficulty that existed when he took office…he kept his head when others around him were not.”

So while it is true that great things have been achieved through enthusiastic leadership, it is also true that many passionate people have led the charge right over the cliff. Ronald Steel, History and International Relations Professors at the University of Southern California, isn’t impressed with Obama’s transformational leadership commenting that...

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denial of what power looks like from a race point of view. He represents the opposite of all that had been status quo- that being white supremacy. Now that Obama heads that symbolic position, his reflection cast a light revealing some of our nation’s dark history. We have been a county lead by values of power, dominance and ego driven centers. We set up systems for trust but the system has never been trust worthy. From the Native American treaties that were broken early on in our nation’s history, to  Muslim students at the University of Cairo listen intently to President Obama’s speech

“Hope is a thin gruel that doesn’t feed us inbad times….

Obama must be as tough as he is inspiring.”

Many echo Steel’s thought and wonder if Obama can show the world that our nation can achieve the goals we set for ourselves. They are concerned that he is tackling too many big issues too soon. His answer to that has been, “How long should we wait? …Washington has been telling us to wait for decades.”

While it seems clear that President Obama is determined to transform things, it seems equally clear that change is making some people in the Whitehouse very uncomfortable. Why? Well, we suspect in part, it stems from the very nature of who Obama is; the first black man to head up the Whitehouse, which is the supreme symbol of power and control. His presence breaks century cycles of

 President Obama greets Ghanaian people during his visit to Africa flossin Magazine Vol. 10 No. 1 - 40

the struggles of civil war and later civil rights legislation, people of color in this nation have had to make great efforts for rights that were automatically granted to white males.

As much as Obama’s critics will throw out words like Socialism and Marxism when referring to his direction, where we have come from could be described as  French veteran is thrilled at the opportunity to shake President Obama’s hand.

Totalitarianism of a privileged few rather than a Democracy. With regard to race, gender and power, America has had its fair share of spiritual malnutrition and moral constipation. We are in denial, just look at when Obama and Hilary Clinton were battling for the Democratic nomination. Obama said “it’s not about race.” Clinton said “it’s not about gender.” Why would they say this?

More votes? Perhaps, but we can’t help but note that the historical symbol of power in the Whitehouse up until that time was a white male.

This leads to the conclusion that the candidate who closest resembled those qualities was the likely candidate to win.

In this case gender trumped race and the Republicans ran and lost on the McCain/ Palin ticket perhaps hoping race would trump gender.

President Barack Obama, plays with the family dog, Bo, during a brief break from meetings on the South Lawn of the White House  flossin magazine Vol. 10 No. 1 - 41

 President Barack Obama talks with President Hamid Karzai of Afghanistan during a phone call from the Oval Office, Nov. 2, 2009..

President Barack Obama listens during his meeting with the President’s Intelligence Advisory Board in the Cabinet Room of the White House, Oct. 28, 2009 

So where do we go now?

Assuming that our old belief systems of power now lay shattered next to the pieces of the glass ceiling President Barack Obama broke through when he got elected.

In moving forward we can’t forget that the most profound experience that anyone can have; that is one‘s ability to look at their role in the

matter i.e. self-assess. Beginning where ever it is we find ourselves right now, we will have to develop systems of new beliefs or redefine the old ones and make contributions based on them. Hopefully these garner and create fertile ground for change agents and head us in the direction of being a better not bitter nation.

 Justice Sonia Sotomayor hugs her mother Celina.

The platform on which Obama stands is not new, its familiar qualities reflect the spiritual values we been deprived of. All people want to know that they are valued and that they have significance, influence and capability. Wars are started when people are demeaned and devalued. The one thing supremacy of any race has a hard time showing is compassion while demonstrating power. President Obama is gifted at showing compassion and now finds himself in the ultimate supreme position for man.

So for the first time in a while we finally have a role model of power who is a communicator, mentor and coach, all qualities that cast light in dark places. As people continue to question Obama’s vision, his job will be to constantly sell

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us on the reasons we should believe in it.

By all appearances he seems up for the test. Most of us are aware of the issues that divide us, they bombard us everyday as we struggle to pay bills and chase the American dream. President Obama has been tasked with the work to unite us in strategies to address these issues and continues to echo encouragement saying, “Despite our hardships, our union is strong. We do not give up. We do not quit. We do not allow fear or division to break our spirit. In this new decade, it’s time the American people get a government that matches their decency; that embodies their strength.”

The strongest skill we have is the skill to self-assess. 

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BUSINESS

CEO: Rodney Ferguson Spirit Mountain Casino Education: Virginia State College: Majored in Accounting Humble B eg inning s and Limitations Growing up in a small town in Virginia, my family and I didn’t really have too much. My father was a truck driver and my mother worked in a school cafeteria. Up until I was seven or eight we lived in a trailer with no running water. It was the late 50s and certainly in a segregated environment you only saw a very small piece of the world. But, at the same time I knew I wanted more so I really didn’t limit myself. In 6th grade I went from a segregated all black school to a school that was 60% white. The integration also involved grouping by categories of skills.

From 6th -12th grade there were four of us African American students assign to classes that were all white, I think this may have helped inspire our abilities to compete with non-African Americans and to succeed.

The Shaping Moments of Encouraging Words Growing up, there were two distinct moments I remember that help shape my future.

The first was in the fifth grade when I watched my uncle become the valedictorian of his senior class. One of his teacher’s, who was also my teacher, said ‘You’re pretty bright, just like your uncle.’

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The second was during my senior year in high school. My trigonometry teacher was talking about his college roommate who had become a CPA. He said he was making all kinds of money, traveling across the country and seeing a lot of different things. My friend and I look at each other and said, ‘that sounds like something we want to do.’

That was the turning point of knowing what I wanted to study in college.

Setting Goals, Achieving Success In college I set some goals; to graduate with honors, to become a CPA, to join an accounting firm and become a partner or a Chief Financial Officer. I was able to achieve all of those goals and surpass them in some instances.

One of my more memorable successes was becoming first the CFO, and then the General Manager [CEO] of The Isleta Casino and Resort in Albuquerque, New Mexico. During this time I helped guide and transform a stand alone casino into a full service resort.

We won the 2008 Hospy Award for the best built boutique hotel. It was a real honor to be a part of that success.

Developing Skills and Expertise in Assessing I developed my skills as being an expert in assessment while working in CPA firms. We were trained to evaluate the performance of the operation through finical statements.

We had to determine if they were failing or succeeding, whether controls were in place to

“The same work ethic that I used to get me here is the one I use to stay here”

BUSINESS make sure that those numbers were accurate and that the performance of the person doing the work was accurate. This helped me understand both people and the operation. By doing the work fairly and objectively and developing a big picture perspective, I was able to make the right decisions and move up the corporate ladder.

What I Learned Working for Billionaires I have had the opportunity to work for some pretty wealthy people, Donald Trump, Steve Wynn and the Pritzer family, all powerful billionaires in the hospitality business. They were all able to understand the guest and build operations based upon that understanding, or as Steve Wynn put it, ‘Build a Disneyland for adults.’ Basically they taught me that if you build something really nice that people don’t see all the time, then folks will talk about it and come back to it. Obviously they have done some things right in their careers. During my interactions with them, I would take the time to make mental or physical notes; see things that they were doing well and try to emulate them or even do a little bit better. Of course some things you don’t learn until you are thrown into the fire and experience through trial and error. The main thing is to make sure that everyone is being respected and treated fairly, letting them know that though we have different responsibilities everyone’s job is important. As I moved on to other companies, I took these skills with me.

Failures and difficulties I was working with a consulting firm in Philadelphia, one of only two African Americans of a staff of fifty. I was bright and driving business but, for some reason that made the managing director feel threatened. One day he called me into the conference room and said, ‘We have to let you go. You’re not meeting your budget numbers.’ Now, no one at the office was meeting their budget numbers and still I was bringing in 60- 70% of the revenues.

When I pointed that out, he said, ‘Well, you still got to go.’ Now, knowing that I had proven myself in life having been CFO and worked for powerful billionaires, to hear someone saying you aren’t doing your job, was kind of disappointing and disturbing. I filed a wrongful discharge

Formula for Success and won. Winning the case not only helped me mentally at the time, but also helped me in the roles I have served in since.

I have made sure-absolutely positively- that no one gets terminated without just cause.

Hiring the Right People Folks can get complacent just showing up to a job without any desire to move above and beyond the position they are in now. I look for those folks who not only have the aptitude and capability but also the desire to want to advance. During the interview process I usually ask the question, ‘what are your long term plans?’ And I love to hear the ones who say, ‘I like to have your job in x number of years if given the opportunity to learn as much as I can.’ With these types of employees the operation advances.

Perception of Being a CEO vs. the Reality of Being a CEO Some may think that when you get to the top you can just relax and let everyone else do the work but, that is not what I experience nor is it my intention. The same work ethic that I used to get me here is the one I use to stay here. The reality is that a CEO is one who provides the strategic direction and is

the leader of the company. Sometimes in doing so there is the assumption that you will have the answers to everything but certainly you can’t. However, as a leader you try to find the solutions that allow you to steer the business in the right direction. My formula for success is dedication, perseverance, hard work and treating people fairly.

If the now Rodney Ferguson could talk to the Rodney Ferguson in High School Stay focused concentrate on your school work and gets the best grades that you can. Education is extremely important in terms of how successful you can be in life. It doesn’t mean that you are going to use everything you learn in school but it certainly sets you up and puts you in the position where you can advance and utilize those skill sets.

Life: I believe that we are all put h e re fo r a re a s o n a n d th at w e need to make the most out of life.

Death: Death is inevitable what you do here on earth that will determine what you do af ter de ath.

Love: Love is extremely important and we all need it in our life. America.

Unfortunately there are people who are in positions of power who get off on that behavior. The key to moving up for me was to figure out what the performance measure was to be at the top and then do those things. Doing that got me put in charge of the branch and later many

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BUSINESS

Quentin Strode Vice President US Bank Education: Alabama State: Majored in Marketing Minored in Banking and Finance.

Formula for Success

The Beginning: I grew up in Birmingham, Alabama, one of the first black kids to integrate my grade school. I think that experience really formed the quiet person I am today because the only other kid that really talked to me that first year was the other black kid. I had two parents who stayed together through whatever problems they had. My mom was a nurse and worked nights and my dad was in construction working days so my dad was the more nurturing one and my mom was the more tough one; trying to prepare us for what we would see when we got out into the world. They would always give us kids verbal encouragement and made us feel good about our accomplishments.

High School Influences: My basketball coach and a couple of English teachers, in particular, really took me under their wings. When I think back on the teachers that I had, particularly the African American teachers, it seemed it was their mission for us to come out and do well. They were really focused on preparing us for college and for what we would face if we didn’t go to college.

They went above and beyond to deliver quite a few of us.

Climbing the Corporate Ladder: When I started in banking finding ways to climb the corporate ladder was filled with pitfalls and I have had ups and downs over the years. The first time I saw people treated badly was in corporate flossin Magazine Vol. 10 No. 1 - 46

“Life throws you curves.

I live mine with a lot of gratitude.”

America. Unfortunately there are people who are in positions of power who get off on that behavior. The key to moving up for me was to figure out what the performance measure was to be at the top and then do those things. Doing that got me put in charge of the branch and later many branches; 400 to be exact. I used, basically, the same concepts that made me successful as and individual and brought those to the large groups of people I managed.

Formula for Success Those concepts are a strong work ethic, treating people well, showing appreciation to your team, making sure that you’re a salesman at all times and finding ways to represent the organization well in the community. The community piece is huge because if we can link into communities, be visible and do good things, then people will do business with us. Beyond the technical training, if you take these five principles and put them together, you have what you need to be successful at banking.

How to galvanize people Try to find something that inspires people to go after, whatever the task is, and then approach it with a vengeance; don’t just go through the motions. Money is a motivator, and dangling out there somewhere, but it not the end all. Treating people well and showing them appreciation for their accomplishments is huge. If leaders find ways to do that, and avoid motivating by fear, then people will move mountains for them.

Conflicts Most of my bumps have been personality conflicts; which can be a big deal. You try not to make enemies but sometimes you do in your effort to be successful. It is hard to control what people think about you so you learn to go into situations balanced and committed to finding some middle ground.

Character Flaw and Asset I have a quiet demeanor. It has allowed me to become a really good listener, but it may also have held me back at times. When I am sitting in the room and people are sharing ideas if I don’t speak up people might feel that I am being aloof or not sharing.

Quentin Strode Taking Risks, Finding Success My first big success professionally was with my first big job with Bank of America. I was charged with managing South Central Los Angeles, an area where they were considering closing most of their branches.

I took the job basically because no one else wanted it. At the time the branches were performing at the bottom of the country and within 18 months we built it to the number one district in all of B of A. It took hard work and we had to overcome the perception that South Central was a bad place. To do this I helped our team look for certain details that were revenue opportunities. We did a lot of volunteering in the community every single weekend, whether that was picking up trash for a day, painting the houses of elderly people, participating in walkathons/runs or leading home building seminars. It was important that I was out there too. If the boss is there then you tend to get more employees to show up.

I have the community in my heart.

I think if we, as bankers, can build healthy communities then the bank will continue to be strong.

Life: Life throws you curves. I live mine with a lot of gratitude. My Dad would always tell us that we need to live life on life’s terms and as much as I heard that as a kid, or a young adult, it never meant as much to me as when I was trying to understand

the death of my wife and what that meant in the overall scheme of things.

Death is the unknown, the end, and the hurt that goes along with something ending; but also the happy memories that you have about that person who is now gone. The two most important people in my life, my wife and my dad, have both passed on and I am grateful for the happy memories that I still have of them.

Love: To me it means happiness and being with someone I click with. It’s that person in your life that enhances your happiness. I love my kids deeply and I try to do things that will enhance their lives; being that spearhead when they need help or sounding board for them when they need to talk.* Best Financial Advice Understand finances. Understand budgeting, understand credit, understand overdoing it, and understand saving.

Take a class that teaches financial fitness. Most banks, and believe it or not, a lot of churches hold those types of classes for free.

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The Beginning I grew up in Florida, Chile and Texas. My mom worked for insurance companies and dad was a jack of all trades; doing everything from owning a bakery, working for the DEA to starting his own mortgage company. At home he was always doing things like building a garden, fixing the air conditioner, cooking or whatever and he would have us kids right by him doing it with him. They were both big on us kids getting good grades and being active in sports, so there wasn’t much down time to get into trouble.

No Limits I learned from watching my dad and mom not to put limits on myself. They put themselves through college, came to America and learned to speak English and figured out a trade. At age 15 my mom picked me up from school

one day and said, ‘You’re going to try out for this national soccer team.’ I ended up making the team and got to travel to Europe for four weeks. My parents always taught me that I could do anything I wanted as long as I applied myself and gave it 100%.

Defining Moments From the age of 15-20 I worked in the restaurant business and though the money was good, I didn’t feel like I was moving forward in my life. I thought to myself, ‘There has to be something more for me.’

So, I decided to join the Navy. I went to the recruiter’s office and said, ‘When’s the next bus leaving, because you need to take me now or you might never get me.’ I was on the bus two weeks later. I love structure and competition so I fit into the military

very well. I got lucky enough to be a part of the performance division-which had higher expectations than the other divisions. I was on the rifle team often performing for high profile functions with Admirals and other officers. At the end of my nine week training I had beaten out the other 2000 recruits in all testing phases and won the Military Excellence Award as the top recruit.

Developing Valuable Skills As a result of being in the military I learned organizational skills, discipline, motivation and to manage a team through leading by example.

If you excel at your position and bring others up with you, then you have reached success and have learned how to lead.

Climbing the Corporate Ladder When I was in the Navy, I started working out pretty hard. As a result other recruits started

Formula for Success “Love; it conquers all and gets you through everything.”

JosephMunizaga Regional Vice President LAFitness Education:FloridaInternational University and US Navy Studied Pre-Med andDigitalElectronics

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BUSINESS asking me for advice and I developed a following, becoming a gym guru so to speak, I even had some guys trying get into the Navy Seal program asks for my help. Later, when I left the military, I got my first job with LA Fitness as a trainer. I got good at finding new clients to train and keeping them enrolled. But, it wasn’t long before I had another one of those moments and walked into my GM’s office and said, ‘There is something more for me to do here, something bigger.’ She told me I should become and assistant manager but let me know that I would have to give it my all and, that if I did everything she told me to do, I would move up in the company. At the time I was working two jobs; LA fitness and bartending. Though it meant an initial pay cut, I launched into LA Fitness full time. If you don’t take chances in life you are not going to get anywhere.

I managed, through sales, to make up the financial difference in a manner of a few short months.

Leaps of Faith I started asking my Regional VP, ‘How can I get a General Manager spot?’ Being a GM was a highly coveted job and it seemed like you would have to wait for people to retire, die or for a new gym to open before having a shot at it. While I was biding my time, I decided to get a new car, I had been driving a old beat up jeep with the bumper falling off-my wife still teases me about it today saying, ‘I don’t know how I ever went out with you driving that thing.’ We sat down with the sales guy who laid out the payment plan for my new vehicle. My mom, who was with me at the time, said ‘Can you afford to make those payments?’ I told her ‘Of course, I would just work harder.’ She said, ‘Then get it.’ Ten days later I got a promotion and was offered a GM position.

A Big Challenge The club they offered me the GM position at was in serious trouble. They were losing money, morale was low and some people around me felt I would be committing career suicide to by taking it on. My VP reassured me that all had to do was three things; sell, recruit good people and train them well. Being military minded that’s all I had to hear; what needed to be done and for me to go do it. My first day there I told my staff to let me lead from the front and I’d show them how we could make money. In eleven days we sold $36,000, in 90 days we tripled dues. I was there to win, it was my only option. From here I just continued to take on bigger challenges.

Hiring the Right People I look for five things when hiring someone. One, I look for energy; the person’s ability to bring in energy

vs. take away my energy. Two, I see if they are enthusiastic meaning, do they light up the room?

Three, I like experience. Four, I look to see if they have an edge and what they are going to bring to this group that no one else has? Five, I look to see if they have passion, both for helping people and changing lives.

Difficulties and Faltering Moments My dad passed away from cancer and it really tore me up. Usually when someone passes away one of two things will occur; your family will come closer together or you will separate. Unfortunately, I did the latter and that was strange because when it comes to family, I was always taught that you stick together and fight the good fight no matter what. I really learned a lesson about struggling and though I still wrestle with issues from this, I think my family knows that I am trying to be better and we are reconnecting the bond.

Greatest Successes Business wise, it was becoming a Regional VP for LA Fitness and from a personal perspective, it was the birth of my daughter-when I first held her in my arms I was so happy all I could do was cry.

Leading LA Fitness into the Community There are a lot of myths out there about fitness and some bad publicity around fitness clubs so we have to constantly strive to improve on things that are failing and perfect things that are working.

We do this at LA Fitness by concentrating on the ethical values that got the company successful in the first place and focusing on three main factors; strength training, cardiovascular training and food education. I am going to lead my team to follow and deliver this mission to our clients.

Between doing this and getting more involved in the community around us, we will be able to show people the family values that LA Fitness was built on and still runs by today.

Life: Live everyday as if it’s your last day.

Death: It is a part of life and dealing with it makes you stronger.

Love: It conquers all and gets you through everything; good and bad times.

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HEALTH

Prescriptions and Pill heads:

By David Olver

Keeping up with the Jones’n To “sell the sizzle, not the steak,” is a common sales maxim. Turn on your television and witness this idea during a commercial for sports cars.

A convertible’s gloss, grandeur, and wind-through-your-hair excitement are much more enticing than the practicality of running errands or commuting to work. How then, does this sales method apply to prescription drug advertisements?

But that’s why we have specialists.

It’s the doctors, pharmacists, and other medical professionals who have individually spent hundreds of thousands of dollars and years of their lives to become experts on the solution to what ails you.

Lately, however it seems we are encouraged visit them to place orders rather than receive advice and treatment.

Simply put, they show how their products improve our lives. The advertisements provide the appropriate symptoms, and even encourage us to “talk to your doctor to see if ________ is right for you.” Perhaps you have depression, stress or headaches. To alleviate these is, no doubt, a noble cause. But the end user, (i.e. the consumer), is mostly an uneducated lot.

Contrary to what I tell my girlfriend, television is not the best educational tool. Why it is even legal to advertise prescription drugs to consumers baffles me.

Advertising products to the uneducated public that are only available through experts is akin to asking random plane passengers to head up to the cockpit and take over flight duty. They may or may not be capable of such responsibility.

We live in a culture of self-diagnosis and the overly medicated. How often have you heard someone urging calm by saying, “take a pill.” We

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are, after all, the country that fell in love with Pac Man, a video game that’s all about munching pills to power up. I have a friend who decided, after weeks at his stressful job, to try his uncle’s post-traumatic stress medication.

Neither are educated in the field of prescription drugs, but in all things that start with good intentions and end poorly, it seemed like a good idea at the time. This is why most medications are not available in vending machines. They are not here to try out like a new soda flavor.

Perhaps it’s the common conception that since prescription drugs are made in laboratories full of stainless steel, geniuses in crisp, white lab coats, and robots swirling graduated cylinders, they are perfectly safe and available for experimentation. You probably wouldn’t feel the same about the grizzled, toothless man who claims to have made something in the bathtub of his double-wide through the careless combination of cleaning products and convenience store cough syrup. A similar, if less gratuitous image can be compared with generic drugs versus brand name ones. Brand names are sexier. They’ve got sizzle.

HEALTH

It’s also speculated to be partly responsible for the deaths of Michael Jackson and Heath Ledger.

I spoke with Dan Kelly McBride, a Physician’s Assistant who deals primarily with pain management and rehab. Admittedly, he says that there is a real need for powerful pain medication. Burn victims, nerve damaged patients and etc can be in unbelievable pain and the medication helps in their rehabilitation process. However, he told me many patients ask for specific, brand-name drugs and that this can often be a “red flag for addicts” and people looking to sell the pills for their street value. The brand name OxyContin, for example, is a powerful opioid, like its relatives codeine, morphine and heroin. OxyContin, (whose main active ingredient is Oxycodone) can be purchased at a pharmacy (with a valid prescription, of course) for about two dollars a pill, but sold on the street for about twenty. Here in lies a whole new danger of the “street dealing faux- pharmacist” doling out powerful meds to un prescribed customers. To often the result is a cocktail mix of OxyContin and alcohol. “What people don’t realize,” says Mc Bride “is these drugs are designed to seriously impact your central nervous system and that with a combination like that, they are in real danger of falling asleep and never waking up.”

With annual sales around one billion dollars a year in the United States alone, OxyContin is famous for a few reasons. It is one of the most widely available pain medications. It’s also speculated to be partly responsible for the deaths of Michael Jackson and Heath Ledger.

According to the federal Center for Disease Control, fatal, unintentional poisonings (95% of which are prescription drug overdoses) have almost doubled from 1999 to 2004. Prescription drugs have, in fact, overtaken both heroin and cocaine combined for lethal overdoses.

I include OxyContin here, not only because it’s a good example of powerful medicines with potential dangers, but also because it illustrates pharmaceutical companies’ aggressive business tactics. In 2007, Purdue Pharma L.P., the manufacturer of OxyContin, agreed to settle a lawsuit from 26 states and the District of Columbia for $20 million.

The lawsuit complained of inappropriate marketing and promotional methods, such

as encouraging physicians to overprescribe OxyContin, with doses to be taken every eight hours, rather than every 12-hours as approved by the FDA. Shortly after, Purdue and three of its top executives plead guilty in a federal court for misrepresenting the addictive nature of the drug. They have been fined $634 million.

In some ways, I can’t blame them.

One of the ways that America is a great country is its capitalism.

Some may dislike the ethics of large corporations, but without them, we wouldn’t have cars, cell phones, or insurance payouts for the car you wrecked while driving and texting. The downside of cut throat business practices is that someone always gets cut, and it’s not always the competition. Drugs are both powerfully healing and powerfully killing. As in most things, a thorough education is usually the key to avoiding problems and it is probably not a good idea to get this from a TV commercial or from the streets.

flossin magazine Vol. 10 No. 1 - 51

flossin magazine Vol. 10 No. 1 - 53