May 2009 Houston Business Connections Newspaper

BUSINESS CONNECTIONS Aubrey R. Taylor’s

www.peopledoingbusiness.com

Published By Aubrey R. Taylor • Serving The Houston Community Since 1998 • Email: news@houston-businessconnections.com

• SPECIAL PROMOTIONAL

PREPARE: It’s Good Business To Prepare for Disaster HOMEPAGE

DOWNLOADABLE: If you missed getting your hard copy of Aubrey’s Quarterly Magazine, you may still download a copy online at: www.peopledoingbusiness.com.

The next issue will be released next month. Call (832) 212-8735 for inclusion.

QUOTE

It’s Not the Critic Who Counts: Reflections on Roosevelt’s Man in the Arena “It is not the critic who counts, nor the man who points out how the strong man stumbled, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena; whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs and comes short again and again; who knows the great enthusiasms, the great devotions, and spends himself in a worthy cause; Who, at the best, knows in the end the triumph of high achievement; and who, at the worst, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who know neither victory nor defeat.”

— President Theodore Roosevelt

Restoring business is an important part of recovery from disasters. Businesses that plan for disaster before a storm typically have less damage, loss, and downtime than those that do not. It’s a good reason, according to federal and state officials, to include disaster preparations in the normal course of business planning.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency endorse disaster readiness for businesses not only as a means to reduce damage and loss but also as a way to help a community recover after a disaster.

Businesses should consider several elements in preparing for a disaster. Not only is it important to protect the staff, building, data and inventory of a

FEMA mitigation specialist speaking with a resident in Texas: Baytown, TX, October 13, 2008 -- FEMA Mitigation Specialist Jim Workman listens to a resident describe the damage to his home from Hurricane Ike. FEMA sets up mitigation information tables at home improvement stores to provide information on minimizing the impact of future storms on homes and businesses. Photo by Greg Henshall / FEMA company during a damaging event, it’s also critical to prepare a plan to continue operations after most everything is destroyed. A good plan may include provisions to relocate to a preidentified site; retrieve data, including employee, customer and vendor records; and a way to operate efficiently with a smaller staff of key individuals.

There are Internet resources available to help with disaster planning for businesses. FEMA provides a step-by-step approach to emergency plan-

ning, response and recovery for companies of all sizes in its Emergency Management Guide for Business and Industry, a checklist for business recovery and other “how to” resources at www.fema.gov/business and www.ready.gov. The Institute for Business and Home Safety, www.ibhs.org/business_protection/,

BUSINESS

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Houston Mayoral Candidates to Share Views on Houston Small Business Development During Mayoral Forum Hosted by Texas Business Alliance

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ouston’s mayoral candidates will share their views regarding small business development during the Texas Business Alliance (TBA) Houston Mayoral Forum on Thursday, May 21, 2009, at the Barbara Jordan-Mickey Leland School of Public Affairs at Texas Southern University, 3100 Cleburne Street, Houston, TX 77004. The general and private receptions begin at 6 p.m., with the one-hour Mayoral Forum beginning at 7 p.m. Art Rascon (pictured right), reporter/anchor, KTRK-TV 13 Eyewitness News will moderate. The public is invited to attend.

Participating in the Mayoral Forum are

Art Rascon

candidates Peter Brown, Houston city councilman; Gene Locke, partner, Andrews Kurth, LLP; Roy Morales, trustee, Harris County Department of Education; and Annise Parker, controller, city of Houston.

“Houston prospers only when small businesses prosper,” said Dr. John M. Rudley, president of Texas Southern University. “If Houston is to remain a place where jobs and opportunity are abundant and where the American dream is within reach for every family, then one of our greatest goals must be to help small businesses succeed. That’s why SEE page, P.14 Texas Southern

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PUBLISHER’S ANNOUNCEMENTS & INFORMATION

If You Have or Know of An Organization Working To Aid Women’s Causes or Organizations, Please Pass Along This Information

T

he Los Angeles-based Women’s Self Worth Foundation has announced a $10 million pledge to organizations working to help advance and empower women and girls.

Recently established by psychologist and author Cheryl Saban, the foundation also awarded its first grant: $1 million over four years to the Women’s Funding Network, to support ACCION USA’s microlending programs to small business owners in this country.

The foundation also will receive 100 percent of the proceeds from Saban’s latest book, released May 1, What Is Your Self-Worth: A Woman’s Guide to Validation, which examines how society perceives women, how they perceive themselves, and how they can validate their contributions to the world.

“By acting as such a dedicated champion for women’s empowerment, Dr. Saban is leading the way for a growing community of smart and thoughtful donors,” said Women’s Funding Network president and CEO Chris Grumm. “We celebrate the commitment that she has shown to the personal and economic empowerment of women, which is essential for rebuilding local and national economies during this current time of crisis.”

Aubrey R. Taylor, Publisher Houston Business Connections Newspaper Direct: aubreyrtaylor@houston-businessconnections.com Press: news@houston-businessconnections.com Place Ad: advertise@houston-businessconnections.com

Contact The Publisher: 832.212.8735

ENTREPRENEURS CREDO I do not choose to be a Common man It is my right to be UNCOMMON...If I can I seek Opportunity - not Security I do not wish to be a kept citizen, humbled and dulled by having the state look after me.

I want to take the “Calculated Risk” to Dream and to Build, to fail and to SUCCEED. I refuse to barter incentive for a dole.

I prefer the challenges of Life to the “Guaranteed existence”, the thrill of fulfillment to the stale calm of Utopia.

I will not trade FREEDOM for Beneficence nor my dignity for a handout.

I will never cower before any master nor bend to any threat.

It is my heritage to stand erect, proud and unafraid, to think and act for myself, to enjoy the benefit of “MY CREATIONS” and to face the world boldly and say: “This with God’s help, I have done.

All this is what it means to be a ENTREPRENEUR”

MAY 2009 ISSUE Houston Business Connections Newspaper is published by AUBREY R. TAYLOR. All right reserved. No articles may be copied, rewritten, published, or otherwise distributed without the prior written approval of the publisher. For special requests please call: 832.783.1113 or call the publisher directly at: 832.212.8735.

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CONGRATULATIONS: The gentlemen in the photo are: (L to R) North Houston Association chairman Roy Hearnsberger, Houston Mayor Bill White, Harris County Judge Ed Emmett and North Houston Association president Jon Lindsay.

Judge Emmett, Houston Mayor Bill White Named Recipients of 2009 North Star Award Award By North Houston Association Recognizes Leadership In Long-Term Hurricane Planning

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arris County Judge Ed Emmett and Houston Mayor Bill White were recently awarded the North Houston Association’s 2009 North Star Award in recognition of their work in responding to Hurricane Ike last year and preparing for future hurricanes.

The North Star Award is presented to individuals or companies in northern Harris County who have made a long-term, significant contribution to the region. Officials with the North Houston Association said this year’s award was given to Emmett and White “for their leadership in long-term regional hurri-

cane planning and strategy implementation” and noted that the two “were at the forefront providing strong leadership and action for our area” during and after Hurricane Ike struck the area in September 2008.

The award to Judge Emmett was presented by former Harris County judge and state Sen. Jon Lindsay, the president of the North Houston Association.

“This award is especially meaningful because it comes from a group with which I have long been active,” said Emmett. “In fact, I was president of the North Houston Association in the mid1980s, when I represented the area in the Texas House of Representatives. I am extremely grateful to be honored this way.”

The North Houston Association is a non-profit organization that identifies, advocates and supports projects and initiatives that advance the business environment and improve the quality of life in north Harris and south Montgomery counties.

McConnell Jones Lanier & Murphy, LLP Appoints John Redd as Tax Director cConnell Jones Lanier & Murphy, LLP (MJLM) is proud to announce the recent appointment of John Redd as Tax Director. In his new position, Redd will manage the firm’s tax services group which works with public and private companies as well as individuals to manage to provide tax compliance and planning services.

With more than 15 years experience in federal, state, and local tax matters, Redd’s background includes working with Fortune 500 firms to perform federal and multi-state income tax return, state and local excise tax returns, and tax minimization planning projects.

Redd holds a bachelor’s degree in accounting from the University of Houston and is a member of the Texas Society of CPAs. “I am delighted to have John join our team,” said MJLM Tax Services Partner Thomas Jones. “John’s experience and well-rounded tax background will be invaluable as we continue to grow our practice”

M

About McConnell & Jones LLP: McConnell & Jones LLP is a certified public accounting firm registered with the Texas State Board of Public Accountancy. The organization specializes in solving problems, reducing risk and improving business performance for public, private and government clients in variety of industries including individuals, private companies and non-profit agencies.

McConnell & Jones is an affiliate Redd of McConnell Jones Lanier & Murphy LLP, a full-service professional services firm providing accounting, financial planning, management consulting, engineering and technical services. According to a recent survey by the Houston Business Journal, McConnell and Jones is the 16th largest CPA firm in Houston.

--------------------------------------------------------------For additional information on McConnell & Jones LLP please visit www.mcconnellandjones.com.

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ADVICE PROVIDED BY POLARIS MARKETING RESEARCH The Top 10

Branding Mistakes

By Debra Semans, Senior Vice President, Polaris Marketing Research

As many of you know, I teach two branding classes for the American Marketing Association: a brand basics class and a class on Internal Branding. In this position, I am often asked about the “one thing” you must do to have a strong brand or the “worst thing” that companies do to hurt their brands. So here it is: Debra’s Top Ten Branding Mistakes (in no particular order): 1. Losing control of your brand. Letting your ad agency, your marketing research firm, your distribution channels, your subcontractors - just about anyone “take control of and define your brand. No one knows your brand “internally and externally” like you do. No one understands your business strategy and objectives “and how your brand fits into those” like you do.

Never cede this power to another.

2. Not establishing a differentiation. Differentiation is the one thing that makes your brand stand out from the crowd and gives the customer a reason to choose you. If your brand is not differentiated, you have eliminated any competitive advantage and are well on your way to becoming commoditized.

3. Benign neglect. This is the situation with many brands today.

You’re not really hurting them, but you’re not strengthening and enhancing them either. That’s why I call it benign neglect. This is possibly the most vulnerable brand state.

If you’re not paying attention, you can bet your competitors are!

4. Not defining a target market. No one brand can be “all things to all people.” If you are trying to do that by avoiding targeting a specific market segment, you will end up being “nothing to everyone.” No brand can exist without a clearly defined target audience.

Without this, brands lose all focus, effectiveness and efficiency.

5. Not aligning promise and delivery. The number of brands who do not deliver on their brand promise is legion. “We love to fly and it shows.” No, it doesn’t. “We 4•

try harder.” No, you don’t. Why waste advertising dollars making a promise that your organization is simply going to break” The sad fact is that not only does this waste today’s marketing budget, it can actually erode any positive equity your brand may hold.

6. Not making branding “Everyone’s Responsibility.”

Marketing alone cannot continually build and strengthen the brand. If everyone in the organization is not holding the brand promise as a decision standard and a behavior guide, then Marketing’s best efforts will fall short. “If ‘it takes a vil-

lage’ to raise a child, then “it takes a company” to manage and protect the brand.

change, do it gradually so that you bring your market “and your brand equity” along with you.

7. Changing too much or too often. Brands do not change radically; they evolve. A well defined brand with a strongly differentiated position doesn’t need to change too frequently. If you find yourself looking for a new brand position every couple of years, slow down, do some research and get it right.

Then stick with it. Monitor competitors and consumers to make sure you need to change before you abandon your position. And even when you determine you must

8. Do not over-brand. In some companies, everything is a brand or branded. This might be because no one really knows what a brand is, it might be because the organization doesn’t have enough brand discipline to keep this from happening. The creation of new brands should not be undertaken lightly and should be done with the utmost deliberation. This is an expensive undertaking that will require resources and support for years to come. Only brand what

Debra Semans is the Senior Vice President for Polaris Marketing Research, with responsibility for Account Management, Marketing and Business Development.

With more than 25 years of marketing experience, Debra brings rich and varied experience to her clients.

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ADVICE PROVIDED BY POLARIS MARKETING RESEARCH needs to be branded.

9. Not understanding your brand from the consumers “perspective.” We know what our customers “want.” “We know what our customers think of us.” Perhaps the two most dangerous sentences ever

spoken in a business meeting. The very fact that you are employed by the company almost pre-determines that you do not know what your customers are thinking. And the higher up in the organizational structure, the more likely it is that your perceptions are wrong. So

beware and do some marketing research to be sure.

10. Not understanding your brand space. “Gerber’s Adult Foods.” “Levi’s Men’s Suits.”

Many new products fail because management does not understand

where the brand fits for the consumer. Understanding your brand space (in short, the areas of the market where your brand fits) can help you avoid miss-steps in new product introduction and can help you identify brand extensions that might be very valuable.

WWW.HOUSTON-BUSINESSCONNECTIONS.COM • 832.212.8735 •

So there it is. Try to avoid making these mistakes and you will go a long way toward keeping your brand strong. We’d love to hear from you on this, so if you have other “Brand Mistakes,” please send them to me by email at debra.semans@polarismr.com

WWW.PEOPLEDOINGBUSINESS.COM • 5

RESEARCH PROVIDED BY THE PEW RESEARCH CENTER DoD photo by U.S. Navy Petty Officer 1st Class Chad J. McNeeley

Dissecting the 2008 Electorate: Most Diverse in U.S. History

Black women had the highest voter turnout rate in November’s election — a first

By Mark Hugo Lopez, Associate Director, Pew Hispanic Center, Paul Taylor, Executive Vice President, Pew Research Center

The electorate in last year’s presidential election was the most racially and ethnically diverse in U.S. history, with nearly one-in-four votes cast by nonwhites, according to a new analysis of Census Bureau data by the Pew Research Center. (1) The nation’s three biggest minority groups — blacks, Hispanics and Asians — each accounted for unprecedented shares of the presidential vote in 2008.

women and younger voters. The voter turnout rate among eligible black female voters increased 5.1 percentage points, from 63.7% in 2004 to 68.8% in 2008. Overall, among all racial, ethnic and gender groups, black women had the highest voter turnout rate in November’s election — a first.

Blacks ages 18 to 29 increased their voter turnout rate by 8.7 percentage points, from 49.5% in 2004 to 58.2% in 2008, according to an analysis by the Center for Information and Research on Civic Learning and Engagement (CIRCLE) at Tufts University, The voter turnout rate among young black eligible voters was higher than that of young eligible voters of any other racial and ethnic group in 2008. This, too, was a first.

The increased diversity of the electorate was also driven by popula-

tion growth, especially among increased voter participation among Latinos. Between 2004 and 2008, the blacks, Latinos and Asians, members number of Latino eligible voters rose of all three groups cast more votes in from 16.1 million in 2004 to 19.5 2008 than in 2004. Two million more million in 2008, or 21.4%. In com- blacks and 2 million more Latinos parison, among the general popula- reported voting in 2008 than said the tion, the total number of eligible vot- same in 2004. Among Asians, ers increased by just 4.6%.

338,000 more votes were reported In 2008, Latino eligible voters cast in 2008 than in 2004. The numaccounted for 9.5% of all eligible ber of white voters in 2008 was also voters, up from 8.2% in up, but only slightly -2004. Similarly, the increasing from 99.6 POLITICS share of eligible voters million in 2004 to 100 who were black increased from million in 2008.

11.6% in 2004 to 11.8% in 2008. The The Pew Research Center analyshare of eligible voters who were sis of Census Bureau data also finds a Asian also increased, from 3.3% in distinct regional pattern in the state2004 to 3.4% in 2008. In contrast, the by-state increases in turnout. From share of eligible voters who were 2004 to 2008, the greatest increases white fell from 75.2% in 2004 to were in Southern states with large 73.4% in 2008. black eligible voter populations: With population growth and Mississippi (where the voter turnout

Overall, whites (2) made up 76.3% of the record 131 million people (3) who voted in November’s presidential election, while blacks made up 12.1%, Hispanics 7.4% and Asians 2.5%. (4) The white share is the lowest ever, yet is still higher than the 65.8% white share of the total U.S. population.

The unprecedented diversity of the electorate last year was driven by increases both in the number and in the turnout rates of minority eligible voters.

The levels of participation by black, Hispanic and Asian eligible voters all increased from 2004 to 2008, reducing the voter participation gap between themselves and white eligible voters. This was particularly true for black eligible voters. Their voter turnout rate increased 4.9 percentage points, from 60.3% in 2004 to 65.3% in 2008, nearly matching the voter turnout rate of white eligible voters (66.1%). For Hispanics, participation levels also increased, with the voter turnout rate rising 2.7 percentage points, from 47.2% in 2004 to 49.9% in 2008. Among Asians, voter participation rates increased from 44.6% in 2004 to 47.0% in 2008. Meanwhile, among white eligible voters, the voter turnout rate fell slightly, from 67.2% in 2004 to 66.1% in 2008.

Much of the surge in black voter participation in 2008 was driven by increased participation among black 6•

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rate was up 8 percentage points), Georgia (7.5 points), North Carolina (6.1 points) and Louisiana (6.0 points). It also increased in the District of Columbia (6.9 points).5 According to the exit polls in last year's presidential election, the candidate preference of non-white voters was distinctly different from that of white voters. Nearly all (95%) black voters cast their ballot for Democrat Barack Obama. Among Latino voters, 67% voted for Obama while 31% voted for Republican John McCain. Among Asian voters, 62% supported Obama and 35% voted for McCain. In contrast, white voters supported McCain (55%) over Obama (43%).

continued on page, P.22

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LAW OFFICE OF DAGNEE MCKINNEY, PLLC • Criminal Defense • Family Law • Personal Injury Insurance Companies and Defendants have choices: 1) Settle your claim, or 2) They may get sued . . .

Dagnee “Dee” McKinney, M.Ed.

Trial Attorney 6001 Savoy, Suite 208 Houston, Texas 77036

(832) 242-7000

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* VOTED A TOP LAWYER FOR THE PEOPLE FOR 2008 & 2009 BY H TEXAS MAGAZINE • www.htexas.com WWW.HOUSTON-BUSINESSCONNECTIONS.COM • 832.212.8735 •

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LEGAL CORNER PROVIDED BY JUDGE OSWALD J. SCOTT

HAVE YOU WRITTEN YOUR WILL? Most of us go through life planning and working toward financial, personal and career goals, but fewer than 30% of Americans have a valid Will when they die. Though we realize death is inevitable, too many of us are not considering the threat it will have on the future of our families.

your first choice is unwilling or unable to accept guardianship.

Examples of community property are wages, retirement benefits, and interest income. Separate property is property owned by one spouse prior to marriage. A gift or an inheritance during a marriage is also considered separate property.

Probate - The process of administering a deceased person's estate.

The court reviews your Will and confirms the appointment of your executor. During this process, the Executor will inventory your assets, pay your debts and taxes.

Testator - The person who is executing a Will.

common reasons for using a testamentary trust is to make sure minor children are provided for in the event that of both parents die. It could also be used to provide income for grandchildren or children with special needs. A testamentary trust is a good way to provide for the care, maintenance, support and education of your beneficiaries.

Property - Under Texas law, your property is classified as Community or Separate if you are married. Community property is property acquired by a married person through his or her efforts, skill, or labor during marriage.

Trust - An arrangement whereby one person or entity holds title to property and manages it for the benefit of one or more persons (called beneficiaries). When a Testator creates a trust in his will, it is called a testamentary trust. One of the most

Trustee - The person designated for management of property placed in a trust. This person is responsible for making investments, paying taxes and making distributions.

The trustee can be a person, a bank or a company that manages trusts.

Without careful planning, your property will be distributed according to the prevailing state law. In the absence of a Will, the State of Texas will make decisions for your family, without the benefit of your input.

Under the State of Texas Plan, some of the following could happen: • Property for your minor children could be managed by someone not of your liking • Burdening your heirs with costly court proceedings • A large sum of money going to a 18-year-old • The surviving spouse owning an interest in the homestead with a child from a previous marriage.

Exactly why do people fail to prepare a Will? The reasons vary from person to person but far too many people have not taken the time to do so, creating a tremendous burden on their families and leaving important decisions to be made by the state such as: • Who will take your property and in what amounts • Who will act as guardian for your minor children • Who will pay your debts and taxes • Who will handle your estate By writing your Will, you will be analyzing the family's present financial affairs and developing a strategy to meet the needs of the family upon your death.

Below is a list of definitions that will be helpful in preparing your Will.

Executor - The person named in your Will to administer your estate.

The executor is responsible for paying all of the debts, collecting the debts owed to the deceased, paying any taxes owed, and representing the estate before the probate court.

The executor is also expected to distribute property to persons in accordance to the Will, including the transfer of any real estate.

Guardian - The person you would name in your Will to be legally responsible for the caring and raising of your minor children in the event both you and your spouse die. This relationship would last until your children are 18 years old.

Therefore, it is important to include alternative choices in the event 8•

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Oswald J. Scott, Jr. is an attorney and municipal court judge who specializes in wills & probate. He can be reached at (713) 227-8060 or at oswsco@msn.com.

LEGAL CORNER FROM ADAMS & ASSOCIATES, L.L.C.

How to hire a lawyer

By Aaron G. Adams, Esq.

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Unless you are a business owner or own a significant amount of assets, you probably will only ever need an attorney in the case of an emergency. In an emergency situation, you as the client are in a highly vulnerable position and therefore are susceptible to being taken. I have solved many clients’ problems, only after they have spent large sums of money with another attorney who did not.

When I ask them why they hired their first attorney they say: “Well, I thought he was a good attorney because his office is in [insert your favorite ritzy part of town].” or “I thought he was a good lawyer because he got [insert famous person] off.”

This article is primarily geared toward those hiring an attorney in an emergency situation and will serve to shed some light on how to make a sound decision when seeking counsel under trying conditions.

What do I need to bring with me to my consultation?

To get the most out of your consultation, you will want to bring any and all documentation related to your case. Therefore, the attorney can give you an honest assessment of your situation and a more accurate fee assessment.

What is a retainer?

The word “retainer” is defined in Black's Law Dictionary (7th Edition) as “a fee paid to a lawyer to secure legal representation.” The two most common types of retainers are described as follows: The first type is the type that most clients are familiar with; it is akin to an

advance. Here's how it works. The client pays the attorney an upfront fee, which is placed in the attorney’s trust account. As the attorney works, he or she deducts from the retainer, by “paying” to his or herself earnings. Once the retainer is drawn down to a certain point the attorney requests that the client replenish the retainer. In this arrangement the attorney asks for a significant upfront fee in order to hold in trust because he or she is bearing the credit risk of the client. That is, the retainer serves as a credit reserve.

The second type of retainer is an amount that is paid on a monthly basis, regardless of whether or not any legal work is performed. This type of retainer functions more like an insurance policy, except that you

problems at once. With this type of retainer the attorney has already worked into his schedule a time to service your needs. This type of retainer is most commonly used by high net worth individuals, businesses and entertainers that have ongoing legal needs that arise randomly.

However this type of retainer is becoming more widespread in the marketplace for all types of clientele.

---------------------------------------------

Aaron G. Adams, Esq. have actually paid for something tangible, a small block of time every month. Attorneys have numerous clients and cannot work on multiple

Aaron Gabriel Adams is a practicing attorney in the Houston area focusing on Business, Intellectual Property, and Real Estate Law. Need a real estate attorney? or Do you have a general Legal Question? Contact him at aaronadams@aalawoffice.com or his office at 713-566-1990.

How do I find an attorney?

It is best to find an attorney through a personal referral. If no referral is available, you can use the Internet, local newspapers, or phone books to compile a list. After creating a list of prospective attorneys, you should you read their profiles at the Texas Bar website located at www.texasbar.com. On the Texas Bar website you will be able to find the bare minimum about your prospects. The website will tell you whether or not the attorney is in good standing, how long he or she has been in practice, and whether or not he or she has ever been disciplined. You will want to be weary of any attorney that has been disciplined by the bar.

What should I say when I call my prospective attorney?

When calling an attorney for the first time you should be ready to present your issue in an easy to understand manner. Never start with: Do you handle [insert type of law or type problem]? This lets the attorney know that you have not done your homework about him or her. Another no-no is to expect a precise fee quote for your case because each case is different.

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APPOINTMENTS PRAIRIE VIEW A&M UNIVERSITY NEWS

PVAMU Names Freddie Richards Dean of the College of Agriculture and Human Sciences PRAIRIE VIEW, Texas — Dr. Freddie L. Richards, formerly interim dean, College of Agriculture and Human Sciences and interim administrator of the Cooperative Extension Program, has been appointed dean of the College of Agriculture and Human Sciences at Prairie View A&M University.

He will also serve as the Administrator of the Cooperative Extension Program.

Richards officially assumed his post April 1, after being confirmed by the Texas A&M University System Board of Regents.

“Dr. Richards is a distinguished researcher and it is under his leadership that PVAMU has established the Ethiopia Sheep and Goat Productivity Improvement Program,” said President George C. Wright. “This partnership with Langston University is designed to train farmers to improve their goat and sheep herds thereby improving their standard of living. Indeed, this global project demonstrates Prairie View’s commitment to a progressing society.”

As Dean of the College of Agriculture, Richards will serve as the chief administrative officer of the college in all matters related to academic, faculty and student affairs.

He will also be responsible for fund development, policy compliance and student recruitment and retention.

Richards began his tenure at Prairie View A&M University in 1976, as dean and research director in the College in Agriculture. He was responsible for the groundwork that established the Jesse H. Jones building that houses the Cooperative Agricultural Research Center and the livestock and poultry labs on the University Farm, worked diligently to establish the International Goat Research Center, and, in the early 1980s, secured an endowed scholarship in the amount of $100,000 from the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo.

Recently he developed the Mobilnet E-bus, a mobile computer lab designed to connect disadvantaged communities with internet access. The MobileNet bus is equipped with computers and a satellite dish that travels to rural areas to teach computer use.

A native of Alabama, he received a bachelor’s degree in agriculture education from Alabama A&M College. Richards holds a master's degree in agriculture education from Tuskegee Institute and was

10 •

awarded a doctoral degree in agricultural education from Pennsylvania State University.

About the College of Agriculture and Human Sciences: The College of Agriculture and Human Sciences is comprised of three units. The Department of Agriculture,

Nutrition and H u m a n Ecology, the Cooperative Agricultural Research Center and the Cooperative Extension Program. The mission of the College is to provide quality, relevant academ-

ic, research and outreach programs in the agricultural, food, family and environmental sciences.

About Prairie View A&M University:

Ranked the only Texas school on Black Enterprise magazine’s 2006 list of “Top 50 Colleges and Universities for AfricanAmericans,” Prairie View A&M University was founded in 1876 and is the second-oldest public institution of higher education in Texas. With an established reputation for producing engineers, nurses and educators, PVAMU offers baccalaureate degrees in 50 academic majors, 41 master's degrees and four doctoral programs through nine colleges and schools. A member of The Texas A&M University System, the university is dedicated to fulfilling its land-grant

Freddie Richards officially assumed his post April 1, after being confirmed by the Texas A&M University System Board of Regents.

mission of achieving excellence in teaching, research and service.

During the university’s 132-year history, more than 51,500 academic degrees have been awarded. For more information regarding PVAMU, visit www.pvamu.edu.

Hours of Operation: The Museum opens and conducts tours Monday thru Friday from 10:00a.m. to 5:00p.m. and on Saturdays from 10:00a.m. to 4:30p.m. the Museum is closed on Sundays. www.buffalosoldiermuseum.com 1 8 3 4 S o u t h m o r e , H o u s t o n , Te x a s 7 7 0 0 4 I Te l e p h o n e : 7 1 3 - 9 4 2 - 8 9 2 0

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SPOTLIGHT 2009 PEOPLE DOING BUSINESS SERIES

Father and Son Entrepreneurs Create Wine Cellar Cooling System Commercial-grade Wine Guardian preserves fine wine investments.

Syracuse, NY — The founders of Air Innovations, father and son Larry and Mike Wetzel, have spent most of their careers designing and manufacturing specialty air conditioning and refrigeration equipment. They also are both passionate about collecting fine wines. It became only a matter of time before they applied their expertise in both subjects to building a better wine cellar cooling system. The result was Wine Guardian, a commercial-grade unit sold in North America and Europe, first introduced by the company in 1998.

The Wetzel family’s first wine cellar was hand-dug by Larry and a teenaged Mike under their 1820’s farmhouse foundation, utilizing the natural coolness and humidity from the earth and stone surrounding it.

From that date forward, wine cellars became an essential part of their future residences.

The first attempt at providing artificial cooling came about in Larry’s 1989 house renovation and involved using a home air conditioner–still the basic framework for many wine cooling units today. It soon became apparent that the unit couldn’t adequately keep the recommended 55 degrees Fahrenheit nor provide the proper humidity. It was also cumbersome and noisy. After studying what was available for purchase, the Wetzels determined they could build a better product, and soon Wine Guardian was born.

Larry, who is an active member of the international burgundy wine organization, the Confrérie des Chevaliers du Tastevin, has a WGcontrolled 900-bottle cellar in his Cazenovia, New York home and another 200-bottle cellar in his second home on Nantucket. Mike, who lived in Strasbourg, France for several years and is particularly knowledgeable about the wines of the Alsace, recently installed a 600-bottle cellar in his home on Skaneateles Lake, one of the wine-producing Finger Lakes in Central New York.

His cellar features a ducted, watercooled Wine Guardian with humidifier, which is installed in an adjacent mechanical room and mounted over the door to conserve space.

Wine Guardian wine cellar cooling units can be ordered in four sizes to condition fine wine collections from 20,000 bottles to fewer than 500 bottles, and are designed to maintain optimal temperature and humidity so wine can be kept at the correct aging temperature. The units are self-contained and ductable, which makes them quiet and easy to

install in many different types of locations, up to 25 feet away from the actual wine cellar. Wine Guardian products are made of commercial-grade NEW components and corrosion-resistant, powder-coated aluminum for durability. They are ETL and CSA safety certified.

Wine Guardian products are distributed internationally, and representatives can help customers determine which size unit and what options are best suited for their wine cellar design and storage needs and the preservation and enjoyment of their valuable wine investments.

Wine Guardian is a registered trademark of Air Innovations®,

which designs and manufactures Wine Guardian wine cooling systems at its headquarters in Syracuse, New York. Air Innovations, established in 1986, YORK builds specialty air conditioning, refrigeration and environmental control products that also are used in the defense, aerospace, healthcare, semiconductor and retail industries. - (PRWEB) -------------------------------------------For more information on Wine Guardian products, visit www.wineguardian.com, call toll-free 800825-3268 in the U.S. and Canada (315-452-7400 other international) or write info(at)wineguardian.com

Air Innovations President and CEO Mike Wetzel (left) and Chairman Larry Wetzel design and build Wine Guardian wine cellar cooling products at AI corporate headquarters located near the wine-producing Finger Lakes region of Central New York.

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INFORMATION

UPCOMING EVENTS & SURVEYS

B

GOP Party Identification Slips Nationwide and in Pennsylvania No Indication of Further Democratic Gains Over the first four months of 2009, the Republican Party has continued to lose adherents. Interviews with over 7,000 respondents nationwide so far this year found fewer than a quarter (23%) of the combined total identifying themselves as Republicans. This is down from 25% in 2008, and from 30% in 2004. In total,

that period. Instead, a growing number of Americans describe themselves as independents, 36% in 2009 compared with just 32% in 2008 and 30% in 2004.

Looking at the individual monthly surveys since December suggests that both political parties are facing declining membership in the wake of an engaging election cycle. In the Pew Research Center's April 2009 survey, 33% identified as Democrats, down from 39% in December 2008. Over the same period, the share

Pennsylvania Sen. Arlen Specter mentioned the changing composition of his state as a consideration. Across a typical year the Pew Research Center conducts well over 1,000 interviews in Pennsylvania, including 384 in the first four months of 2009. The data, so far, support Sen. Specter's contention. When he last ran for his seat in 2004, 38% of Pennsylvanians said they were Democrats, while 34% identified as Republican. This year, the share identifying as Democrats is the same 38%, but only 27% call themselves Republicans.

What had been a slim fourpoint Democratic identification advantage is now an eleven-point advantage.

The pattern of partisan change in recent years has been remarkably consistent across the nation. Since 2004, the GOP has lost at least five points in party identification in every region of the nation.

Meanwhile, Democratic identification in 2009 is either at or just slightly above 2004 levels.

The Northeast stands out from other parts of the country not for the magnitude of the shift, but the overall balance in favor of Democrats. Even

Pew Research Center for the People & the Press the GOP has lost roughly a quarter of its base over the past five years.

But these Republican losses have not translated into substantial Democratic gains.

So far in 2009, 35% of adults nationwide identify as Democrats, about the same as in 2008 (36%). While GOP identification has fallen seven points since 2004, the Democrats have gained only two points over

calling themselves Republicans has fallen from 26% to 22%. By contrast, the number of independents has risen from 30% in December to 39% now. While it is not unusual for Republican and Democratic identification to grow over the course of an election and subside afterward, the magnitude of these changes is noteworthy.

In announcing his change in party affiliation from Republican to Democrat,

in 2004 – when there were nearly as many Republicans as Democrats in the rest of the country – Democrats held a substantial 35% to 26% advantage in Northeastern states. That advantage has widened to a nearly two-to-one edge (38% to 20%) in 2009.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

About the Data: All figures in this report are based on adults 18 and older. Figures add to less than 100% because some respondents say they belong to other parties, have no preference or decline to offer a partisan affiliation. Yearly totals are calculated by combining all Pew Research Center national surveys for the calendar year. The 2009 total is based on interviews with 7,127 adults interviewed between January and April, 2009, with a margin of error of plus or minus 1.5%. Figures for April 2009 are based on 3,013 interviews conducted between March 31 and April 21, with a margin of error of plus or minus 2.0%.

UPCOMING EVENT

Houston Mayoral Candidates to Share Views on Houston Small Business Development During Mayoral Forum Hosted by Texas Business Alliance Congressman Al Green’s Statement on House of Representatives Passage of The Local Law Enforcement Hate Crimes Prevention Act

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ASHTINGTON, DC- Congressman Al Green (TX-09) released the following statement on the U.S. House of Representatives’ passage by a 249-175 vote of H.R. 1913, the Local Law Enforcement Hate Crimes Prevention Act: “The founders of this great nation recognized in the Declaration of Independence that ‘all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.’ Yet, to this day, all too many of our brothers and sisters are denied these rights because they are the victims of hate crimes.

The FBI has documented over 118,000 hate crimes since 1991. Those who commit these crimes may be motivated by any of myriad different reasonsbe it a victim's race or gender or religion or sexual orientation or national origin. Yet, these crimes all have two things in common. First, they are injurious not just to the direct victim of the attack, but to the whole community. Second, they are unequivocally wrong and must be stopped.

This important and bipartisan bill will provide much needed assistance to state and local law enforcement agencies attempting to stop hate crimes and it will ensure that our government can help stop hate crimes committed on the basis of the victim's sexual orientation or disability. I was proud to co-sponsor and vote in favor of the Local Law Enforcement Hate Crimes Prevention Act because we must ensure equal justice under the law for all Americans.”

14 •

University is proud to host the Mayoral Forum focusing on small business matters.”

“Specifically, the Texas Business Alliance is interested in hearing the candidates’ viewpoints on the issues that matter to small businesses in Houston, such as how decisions to hire or not hire local firms will be made, the Affirmative Action and Contract Compliance area, their plans to ensure MWBEs are developed to do business with the city of Houston, and small business taxes,” said Jeffrey L. Boney, founder and CEO, TBA. “The success of small business in Houston and its future will be shaped by one of the candidates attending this forum.”

The public is invited and

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encouraged to attend and hear organization, with a mission the issues firsthand. To reserve to equip minority- and womena seat, online regiso w n e d tration is available businesses at www.texasubsito be qualinessalliance.org. continued from P.1 fied supRegistrants wishing to attend the private meet- pliers, ready to compete for and-greet reception with the public, private and internamayoral candidates may regis- tional opportunities through ter and pay on the TBA Web progressive development and site. The cost of the private specialized training. Its vision meet and greet is $25 for non- is to strengthen the Texas members and $20 for TBA economy and spur job cremembers. There is no cost to ation by expanding minorityattend the general reception or and women-owned businesses, and encouraging youth Mayoral Forum.

Chapter For more information, entrepreneurship. organizations are being purplease contact 281.213.9554 or sued in Dallas/Ft. Worth, San info@mwhpublicrelations.com.

Antonio, Austin and El Paso.

---------------------------------------About Texas Business Alliance Visit www.texasbusinessalA member-driven, solutions liance.org for more details or oriented, 501(c)(6) nonprofit call 281.213.9554.

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OPINIONS

FROM ATTORNEY TINA PARKER FORD

The Supreme Law of the Land

By Gina Parker Ford Article VI of the United State Constitution states: “This Constitution, and the laws of the United States which shall be made in pursuance thereof; and all treaties made, or which shall be made, under the authority of the United States, shall be the supreme law of the land. . . ”

Our Founders thought it wise that our blossoming nation should remain sovereign and that the laws of this land should rule. At least one current Supreme Court Justice could not disagree more.

Recently, Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg spoke to students and reporters at the Moritz College of Law at Ohio State University about her concerns that the U.S. Supreme Court was not considering foreign laws in their decisions. She commented, “I frankly don't understand all the brouhaha lately from Congress and even from some of my colleagues about referring to foreign law.”

Trying to persuade those who disagree, Justice Ginsburg likes to reference the Canadian Supreme Court, noting they are regularly cited around the globe reasoning, “You will not be listened to if you don't listen to others.”

In addition to her support of considering foreign laws for cases before the Court, Justice Ginsburg also discussed her role as a litigator advancing women’s rights prior to being nominated to the Court in 1993. Do you think she would be open to one of Afghanistan’s newest laws which provides a husband can demand sex with his wife every four days and regulates when and for what reasons a wife may leave her home? I doubt it.

Before jumping off the proverbial cliff, perhaps Justice Ginsburg should consider not only the difference in American laws, but also the fact that “We the People” are able to monitor our laws and change those that are unreasonable. As Chief Justice Roberts stated during his confirmation hearing, “If we're relying on a decision from a German judge about what our Constitution means, no president accountable to the people appointed that judge and no Senate accountable to the people confirmed that judge…and yet he's playing a role in shaping the law that binds the people in this country.”

We have already seen the affects of international law has had on some Supreme Court cases including, Roper v. Simmons, 543 U.S. 551 (2005). This is the case that ultimately banned the death penalty for anyone under the age of 18. The facts surrounded two 17 year olds who stalked, kidnapped, then duct-taped a woman, and threw her off a bridge - killing her. Despite the premeditated, heinousness of this 16 •

crime, the Court looked to the laws of Iran, Pakistan, and China to name a few. Is this the example Justice Ginsburg wants to set?

As Chief Counsel for the American Center for Law and Justice (ACLJ), Jay Sekulow, commented, “The Obama Administration - through its foreign and economic policies - is embracing an ideology of global governance – a strategy that may put at risk our national sovereignty - our constitutional framework. . . The U.S. is a sovereign world leader and must not surrender its autonomy.”

Who will the Obama Administration appoint to the U.S. Supreme Court? Will they continue down the path of eroding our national sovereignty? As Phyllis Schlafly opined, “It should be the

Senate’s duty to require all judicial nominees to proclaim their fealty to the U. S. Constitution as written and their rejection of the use of any foreign laws or courts.”

-----------------------------------------Gina Parker Ford - CEO of Dental Creations, Ltd., a dental manufacturing company, and a successful attorney - is the National Eagle Forum Chairman for Judicial Reform. Mrs. Ford is immediate past chairman of the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation. She serves on the American Family Radio Advisory Board of Central Texas, and she was both the former Republican Party of Texas Treasurer and Associate General Counsel.

LEGAL PROBLEMS? PROTECT YOUR RIGHTS! FAMILY LAW DIVORCE CUSTODY CHILD SUPPORT ENFORCEMENTS PATERNITY ADOPTION PROBATE

ATTORNEY/MEDIATOR

Family Matters Nothing is more painful than when families have problems. And in times of high emotion, it’s easy to make poor decisions.

That’s why it’s important to have sound advice during difficult times. Sandra J. Peake, Attorney / Mediator, concentrates on legal issues of importance to families. We can help during your darkest hour with solid legal counsel and, perhaps even more importantly, compassion. We listen, and we care.

Please contact us today.

713.723.5082 Sandra J. Peake, Attorney / Mediator

9660 Hillcroft, Suite 435 Houston, TX 77096

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N O T C E R T I F I E D B Y T H E T E X A S B O A R D O F L E G A L S P E C I A L I Z AT I O N

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INFORMATION

INTERVIEWS & ANNOUNCEMENTS Greetings! I’ve some good news to share with you:

G What Does It Mean To Be A Republican?

AUBREY R. TAYLOR: Mrs. Chairman, can you tell my readers, and the citizens of our great state of Texas what it means to be a Republican?

HAIRMAN BENKISER: Millions of Texas voters who share a set of core conservative principles and a common philosophy of government make up the Republican Party of Texas. Republican principles are based on respect for each individual and his or her right to life, freedom and liberty. Our nation was founded on the fundamental principle that individuals have certain rights and freedoms that cannot be infringed and may only be restricted to the degree necessary to preserve the rights of others.

Republicans believe that freedom is a God-given right, affirmed by our Founders, articulated in the Declaration of Independence, and protected by the United States Constitution. Republicans also believe that government exists to protect individual rights and individuals’ freedom of opportunity to succeed. In fact, Texans’ belief in and Republican policies encouraging the entrepreneurial spirit of the individual has and continues to solidify Texas as a world economic power.

Republicans believe in all the Constitutional limitations on government and that government closest to the people is best. However, the federal government is responsible for providing a strong national defense. Critical to negotiating from a position of strength in our continuing effort toward peace and international friendship, only a strong America can remain a free America.

Republicans also believe that with freedom comes responsibility.

To continue in freedom, individuals must take personal responsibility for their own actions. Taking care of ourselves, our children, our families and our future without government interference is key to a successful nation. Further, we believe in a society that assists those in need rather than a government that inappropriately intrudes into people’s lives attempting to solve every problem by simply spending more of other people’s money.

Republicans believe in building strong families. We know that our nation is stronger with families intent on giving their children the hope of a better tomorrow, the promise of a safe and secure today, and an appreciation and respect of yesterday.

Republicans also believe in an educational system that prepares children for tomorrow’s workplace regardless of race, wealth or geographical location. Education is the bedrock of freedom and the gateway to opportunity. In fact, when Republicans gained the Texas Legislature in 1869, they established a system of free public schools to educate all the children of the State – something Democrats had refused to do.

Republicans believe that everyone should have the opportunity to chart one’s own course – start a business, chase a dream, or build a life – regardless of gender, race, or religion. Republican Party history confirms our dedication to empowering all people. Our Party was started by anti-slavery activists who chose the name “Republican” because it alluded to equality and reminded them of Thomas Jefferson’s Democratic-Republican Party. Further, when the 14th and 15th Amendments extending civil rights and voting rights to Black Americans passed, not even one Democrat in Congress voted for those amendments. More recently, Republicans elected twice the number of Black and Hispanic Texans to statewide office within the first ten years of becoming the statewide majority than Democrats did in the 122 years they controlled the State.

Texas Republicans promote principled, innovative leadership.

Republicans expect leadership that effectively empowers people rather than government and that is unwavering in the face of criticism, steadfast when confronted with adversity, and committed to building a better State. The Republican philosophy is a true reflection of traditional Texas values. It is these values – core Republican principles – that will sustain Texas into the future and continue to make our State strong, prosperous and proud.

The primary difference between the Republican Party and other parties is our belief in and celebration of the individual. Republicans believe in people and that we empower people when we enact policies that promote strong families, personal responsibility, a strong national defense, lower taxes, limited government but unlimited opportunity for all. The Republican Party of Texas is the political party that can best help all citizens achieve their hopes and dreams.

C

alveston matters, and the Island’s next Mayor must ensure this message is clearly understood: Galveston is more than a storm ravaged Island with a history; it is an iconic Texas coastal community with a future!

It’s time to make it official: I announce my candidacy to become Galveston’s next Mayor. The election is one year away on May 8, 2010, and I’m looking forward to leading a robust, positive campaign for Galveston’s future.

The Joe Jaworski for Galveston Mayor Campaign believes that Galveston matters, and it’s our intention to broadcast that message positively and often. We begin by announcing the launch of our campaign website www.JoeForGalveston.com.

Please visit our website, review the issues, email me your views, sign up to volunteer, add your name to our list of supporters and help us raise the money we need to reach every voter by making a secure contribution online via credit card. The www.JoeForGalveston.com website will be our primary communication tool, and we'll maximize our campaign's presence on social networking sites such as Facebook, Youtube and the like, so stay tuned.

Our campaign proudly acknowledges support from both on and off the Island; that’s one of our strengths. Galveston is coming back, and whatever your zipcode – especially after Ike – we are all Galvestonians! So join our campaign to show your support for Galveston’s brightest future.

Ultimately, this campaign is about Galveston’s future and the Galveston voters who

will step up and make this campaign something we can all be proud of. Here’s my pledge to you: We’ll campaign the same way we’ll lead: expect a clear, positive and thoughtful campaign where we will address issues, determine priorities and draft an action plan. The election is a year away, but Galveston’s future begins now.

I’m asking for your vote and your support. I’m running to be Galveston’s next Mayor because I’m ready to work for you every day to show the world that Galveston's best days are ahead.

Onward!

Joe Jaworski

THANKS FOR COMING! Note From The Publisher I would like to personally thank State Representative House District 146, Al Edwards for taking the time to care about an event that was very important to me. Rep. Edwards, I thank you for being a man of your word and coming to the recent program at Prairie View A&M University at my request. I am most grateful, and I know the entire Prairie View A&M family appreciated you leaving Austin and traveling to Prairie View, Texas to show your support..

Prairie View A&M University, recognized as a producer of African American engineers, recently used its 2009 Gala to celebrate its College of Engineering through the theme “Celebrating Our Global Impact on Engineering and Technology”. The black-tie Gala featured an expansive technology exposition and program, at the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston. PVAMU alumnus Roy G. Perry, served as the honorary Gala chair.

This year’s Gala was preceded by the naming ceremony of the PVAMU College of Engineering, in honor of Perry, a class of 1978 graduate. Perry made a name for himself when he became one of the first black executives at Dell, Inc. The university hosted the special name dedication ceremony on Thurs., April 23rd in the Electrical Engineering Building on the beautiful PVAMU campus.

Sincerely,

Aubrey R. Taylor, Publisher

CELEBRATE JUNETEENTH: State Rep. Al Edwards has served the people of Texas for more than 28 years. However, he is most noted for working to make Juneteenth an official Texas holiday. Over the past 20 or so years, Al Edwards’ Juneteenth U.S.A. (JUSA) and the celebration of Emancipation Day, “Juneteenth,” has emerged as primary symbols of African-American culture.

From as far away as Japan the legacy of Juneteenth is celebrated. If you would like more information on Juneteenth U.S.A. or would like to make a donation, call: (713) 741-1900 today!

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SPOTLIGHT PeopleDoingBusiness.Com • PROFILE Marine Corps Chief Warrant Office 4 Rodney Freeman, a 40-year-old Clarks Hill, S.C., native, and chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear defense officer with 2nd Assault Amphibian Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, talks to Lance Cpl. Robert Forsyth, a CBRN Marine, about the importance of having good leadership skills.

U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Casey Jones

Face of Defense: Small-town America Leads Marine to

Big-time Success

By Marine Corps Cpl. Casey Jones Special to American Forces Press Service

MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. – All across the United States, from coast to coast and from border to border, you’ll find thousands of small, onestoplight towns where livestock outnumber people.

In these tiny towns – just like Clarks Hill, S.C., population 376 – your neighbors either are friends, family or both, and you usually never have to think twice about leaving your door unlocked at night.

18 •

Marine Corps Chief Warrant Office 4 Rodney Freeman, a 40year-old Clarks Hill native and chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear defense officer with 2nd Assault Amphibian Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, 2nd Marine Expeditionary Force, credits his great-grandmother and being raised in small-town America for his success in the Marine Corps.

“My great-grandmother embedded in me some extremely valuable core traits,” Freeman said.

“She instilled in me discipline, a good work ethic, caring for others and a sense of family [and] unity.”

Freeman, who’s been in the Marine Corps for 21 years, said being a Marine has been one of his wisest decisions, and that he has enjoyed his time in service.

“Those values my grandmother instilled in me definitely made boot camp and being a Marine easier,” Freeman said. “From my perspective, I believe that the majority of good Marines are the product of a good upbringing.”

Freeman said as a teenager he was certain he wanted to become a

Marine. He never second-guessed have to continue to fight for what the decision. you believe in.”

“The Marine Corps caught my While Freeman was in Iraq attention when I was in the 11th preparing for a flight to another grade,” he said. “I was at a baseball location, he sparked up a conversagame when I saw a reservist Marine tion with a younger Marine. He in dress blues. He didn’t say a single asked the Marine a common quesword; he didn’t have to. He just tion: “What do you do?” stood there with a high-and-tight, The Marine then gave a comlooking lean and mean. He didn’t mon response, “Nothing much, sir.” say anything. It’s just the way he “What do you mean by nothcarried himself.” ing much?” Freeman Courage, one asked.

MILITARY of the core values “Well, sir, I he learned as a would rather do other young boy, has been especially things, I would rather [leave here].” important to Freeman throughout his Freeman told him he was an time in the Corps. important asset, and that's why he “One of the most challenging was doing that particular job. Then situations in the Marine Corps is the Marine finally told him his exact having the courage to stand up to job description. those who are senior to you,” “Sir, removing and loading Freeman said. “To address issues dead, blood-dripping bodies from that you feel are unfair, and not to aircraft and vehicles gets really tirjust give up because they don’t paring,” the Marine said. ticularly agree with you. You just At that instant, Freeman said,

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he realized how strong and selfless Marines are.

“It really dawned on me at that point. To be a Marine, or to be a servicemember, period, is special because we’re all willing to give the ultimate sacrifice, which takes a lot of courage,” Freeman said.

Freeman said after he serves his final two years in Indian Head, Md., working with the Chemical Biological Incident Response Force, he plans to return to some small town in the Carolinas or Georgia.

“I’m not one of those guys who chase dollars,” Freeman said.

“So right now, I’m looking to do my dream job of becoming a Junior ROTC teacher, which would give me the opportunity to mentor, lead, and hopefully help out some young men and women.”

(Marine Corps Cpl. Casey Jones serves with the 2nd Marine Expeditionary Force.)

SPOTLIGHT PeopleDoingBusiness.Com • PROFILE EMAIL THE INFORMATION TO US AT: NEWS@HOUSTON-BUSINESSCONNECTIONS.COM

Two Minnesota Moms CREATE Their Own Bailout Package HattieRose.com offers designer baby “dinner wear” that gift givers go gaga over and moms love Business owners and sisters Jill Sandager and Amy Addington announce the grand opening of their online baby gifts boutique, HattieRose.com, specializing in original designer baby bibs that are as useful as they are cute. So, what’s so great about another online mom-owned baby boutique? Where else can you find a ballerina bib with an actual tutu or a shirt bib with an actual tie?

And these bibs work! They soak up more drool and spit up than any other bib on the market.

But why would two sisters choose to start a high-fashion baby boutique in the middle of such an unstable economy? The answer is simple. They both needed a bailout.

Jill needed a product that worked for her drooling babies and Amy, a single mother of 4, needed a job.

I bought bibs for a friend whose little girl spits up all day long. She was going through about 12 bibs a day, plus her clothes were soaked. Now she uses 1 bib a day thanks to Hattie Rose! I have been singing the praises of Hattie Rose to many people!

After her recently acquired ‘single mom’ status, Amy found that she needed to return to work after being a stay-at-home mom. But she needed a flexible job. About 5 years ago, her oldest daughter was hospitalized and nearly died. After numerous tests and surgeries, she was finally diagnosed with such a rare combination of diseases that she is the only documented case in the history of medicine. She has had to be very closely monitored and her treatments continue to be adapted for her specific medical needs. Amy couldn’t simply pursue a regular 9to-5 job because of the time she dedicates to her daughter’s health.

When Jill approached her sister with the idea of starting an online business, it seemed to fit the bill.

“Between drool and spit up, my daughter was constantly soaked. I started making her bibs myself because I got so frustrated.

I was tired of bibs not staying on because the Velcro had worn out, and I was tired of the paper thin fabric that seemed to be just for show – and not a very good show at that! How many times do I have to read ‘Some bunny loves me’ on a bib that sports a generic cartoon rabbit? It was a necessity for me to make something that would be both absorbent and adorable." said designer Jill Sandager.

So the two moms decided to sell Jill’s designs online. The word is spreading. During the first quarter of 2009, total sales have more than tripled. Ultimately, this e-commerce store is succeeding because it fills a practical need for many parents and it offers something truly original.

“I bought bibs for a friend ator of innovative fashionable bibs whose little girl spits up all day and gifts for baby. Everything found long. She was going through about in our store is a Hattie Rose Designs 12 bibs a day, plus her Original®, created by clothes were soaked. our own talented BUSINESS Now she uses one bib designers. It is our a day thanks to Hattie passion to provide Rose! I have been singing the prais- distinctive gifts that will be both es of Hattie Rose to many people!" practically useful and make your said Sally A., customer. baby the center of the conversation.

Every item is meticulously handAbout Hattie Rose Designs, Inc. made of the highest quality materiHattie Rose Designs is the cre- als in the United States. — (PRWEB)

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LISTEN TO THE PRICE OF BUSINESS MONDAY — FRIDAY @ 11:OOAM

Government and “Free” Should not be in the Same Sentence hile trying to enjoy a quiet Sunday afternoon at home, one of my sons came to my bedroom and told me “there are some teenagers here to see you.” Funny, since I have a house full of teenagers, I am the last one they want to see. The curiosity got the best of me and I walked out where I found two young people in their late teens, dressed very casually and each holding a clipboard with a stack of paper and a pen.

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The conversation went something like this: “May I help you?” I asked. “Yes, I was wondering if you wanted to sign a petition to lower the community college tuition for people in our area.” I was familiar with the issue (I am one of those odd fellows that watch local news) and went along with him. “How does it work?” I asked. “All you have to do is sign this petition and if we get enough signatures it will be on the ballot for this next election and if that happens and it passes...we will have lower tuition.” At this point it gets very hard for me to not get sarcastic. I would like to say, “oh we are voting for a tuition fairy who will lower our school fees” or “ah, you finally figured out how to grow a money tree,” or something like this, but I decided to behave. “So if this passes, how will it lower tuition.” The young man kind of looked down unsure of himself. “I’m not sure,” he said. I knew the answer and informed him that the tuition would be lowered through higher taxes for everyone in the area and that many people who don’t have children will be forced to pay the tuition of others. He thanked me for the information and said, “I guess you are not signing?” I said, “that is correct” and he walked away.

It is through this form of false advertising that government tends to grow. People think these programs are magical, they can simply appear with desire. It is like the Fox News poll where they asked people how government was going to pay for the various bailouts and 25 percent said the “government has its own money.” You would think these are the answers of small children, but Fox assures me that only adults answered the survey.

The public attitude towards Uncle Sam being Santa Claus also reminds me of the late Sen. Russell Long (D-LA) who said “don’t tax you, don’t tax me, tax the fellow behind the tree.” That is exactly how tuition “is lowered” for people, by burdening everyone else.

One of the best examples of the lie of “free government programs” is whenever I take a trip to Galveston, Texas and ride the state’s ferry. Shortly after you take off the captain announces that “this free service was brought to you by the Texas Department of Transportation.” In reality it was paid for by taxpayers through out the state, many who live 15 hours away and have never even seen the Gulf of Mexico.

A sensible policy that government on all levels should pursue is a truth in advertising.

These agencies should be forced to inform boat riders what it cost the taxpayers annually or the individual impact in terms of taxes. That is the kind of transparency we need in government.

Kevin Price is a syndicated columnist whose articles frequently appear at ChicagoSunTimes.com, Reuters.com, USAToday.com, and other national media.

Kevin Price is Host of the Price of Business (M-F at 11 AM on CNN 650) and Publisher of the Houston Business Review. Hear the show live and online at PriceofBusiness.com. Visit the archive of past shows at the Web site.

Free CE Seminar for Realtors on Credit, plus Great Information on Marketing and More Kevin Price, Host of the Price of Business (M-F at 11 AM on CNN 650 on AOL Radio) announced a free seminar for Realtors to

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receive two CE Credits on the first week of June. Jay Pirrote of Ball Park Mortgage will provide a two hour seminar on how Realtors can help clients improve their credit scores.

In addition there will be short presentations

by Kevin Price (marketing), Wanda Reyna (title insurance), EON Business Line of Credits, and others. For more information email info@HoustonBusinessShow.com.

Kathy Bowersox to Teach Executive Coaching at HCC Houston Community College has teamed up with the Rescue Institute (www.rescueinstitute.org) to teach Executive Coaching Classes. Kathy Bowersox of Quantum Leap Success Coaching (www.QuantumLeapSuccessCoach.com) announces that she will begin teaching these courses in April. As more people are concerned about remaining employed and are being asked to do more in their positions, they are often overwhelmed and need coaching to be as successful as possible in their positions. Executive Coaching is the answer to help them succeed. Get more information at HoustonBusinessDaily.com.

Price of Business Adds Women in Business Panel In the next two weeks we are formally announcing our new Women in Business Panel and this new segment of our show will be an important contribution to our program.

Our members include entrepreneurs, marketing executives, financial advisors, and more.

Two of our new panelists include Margo P. Geddie, a Senior Vice President for Wealth Management at Smith Barney and Dina McCain, a professional marketing consultant. Both of these women have decades of experience in their respective industries and listeners will enjoy their knowledge, insights, and experiences that they will bring to each program.

Detailed biographies of both of these women will be released in the next few weeks.

If you are a woman in business and believe that you can make a contribution to our program, we want to hear from you. Email info@HoustonBusinessMediaGroup.com and put “Women in Business” in the subject line. We want to hear from you.

Know Where to Find Your Next Job? HoustonBusinessJobs.com is waiting for you. With over 1.5 million jobs and over 8,000 in the Houston area alone, HoustonBusinessJobs.com is the place to go to find a job or to find an employee. Now is a great time to look for a new job. People simply don't know if there job is secure, it can make good sense to go seek companies that are actively hiring rather than merely wait to see if you have a job tomorrow. In addition to postings, readers will also find great tools, including current salaries for many positions and the means to learn how to get your resume in front of decision makers.

Currently there is a five part series on the job search at HoustonBusinessDaily.com.

The PRICE of Business

with Kevin Price Monday Through Friday at 11 AM on CNN 650 and AOL Radio Sponsored by the Bank of Houston

Your Business Wants You to Listen!

Some of the leading personalities you will find at Price of Business and

PriceofBusiness.com • Kathy Bowersox of QuantumLeapSuccessCoach.com • Rick Ray at WealthDesignGroup.net • Quincy Long of theEntrustGroup.com • Ron Delo of ThePublicAdjusters.Biz • And many others!

Kevin Price’s BizPlusBlog.com Sponsored by Swiss America, “Surviving the Financial Storm” Kevin Price's articles on BizPlusBlog are syndicated on Reuters.com, Chicago Sun Times, USA Today, and other national publications. Find out why by visiting Business Plus Blog!

• Check out HoustonBusinessDaily.com for the best in business articles, video, audio and more, including Rick Ray's new daily market update done through avatar technology.

Visit Houston's Premier Job Board at HoustonBusinessJobs.com. Over 1.5 million jobs available each and every day in Houston and Around the world.

Don't forget to tune into past shows at the site's archive, sponsored by:

HoustonBusinessJobs.com ---------------------------------Get information on the next Price of Business Radio Show Remote at www.PriceofBusiness.com.

Kevin Price Frequently Seen on Fox News “Strategy Room” Kevin Price has been a frequent guest on the FoxNews.com hit program, Strategy Room in the 2 PM hour hosted by Eric Bolling. The program today focused on the seizure by pirates of a US boat. Following the show Price said it was an “excellent experience. I look forward to future opportunities of being on the show.” Recently Bolling asked Price to be a regular guest on the program.

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SHOWCASE THE BUSINESS CONNECTIONS SHOWCASE is a monthly platform sponsored by the businesses showcased. All advertisements are accepted at the discretion of the publisher. Although Aubrey R. Taylor Communications makes every effort to check the authenticity of our advertisements, we accept no responsibility or liability for the contents therein.

The advertiser assures that advertisements will not contain any matter that is libelous or violates any person's right of privacy or constitutes copyright infringement or is otherwise contrary to law. The advertiser assumes all responsibility in connection with the advertisement placed in this publication. Aubrey R. Taylor Communications shall be held harmless from any claim, loss, damage (including reasonable attorneys' fees) that may be incurred or suffered for any reason including but not limited to a breach of any kind associated with advertisers included in this section. What are you waiting for? Call today to get started! Advertising in this section is an excellent way to promote your business in 2009!

To include your business in this section call 832.212.8735 or email your request to: advertise@houston-businessconnections.com

Dissecting the 2008 Electorate: Most Diverse in U.S. History This report summarizes the participation of voters in the 2008 presidential election and follows reports from the Pew Hispanic Center, a project of the Pew Research Center, on the Latino vote and Latino public opinion about the election and the candidates.

The data for this report are derived from the November Voting and Registration continued from P.6 Supplement of the Current Population Survey (CPS). The CPS is a monthly survey of about 55,000 households conducted by the Census Bureau for the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The November Voting and Registration Supplement is one of the richest sources available of information about the characteristics of voters. It is conducted after Election Day and relies on survey respondent self-reports of voting and voter registration.

Law Office of

Cassandra Y. Hollemon (832)606-8238 * * * * *

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Pew Research 1. The measurement of race in the Current Population Survey changed between November 2000 and November 2004. Prior to 2003, survey respondents could only pick one race, either white, black, American Indian or Alaska Native, or Asian or Pacific Islander. Beginning with all Current Population Surveys in January 2003, survey respondents could identify multiple race categories. As a result, demographic shares based on race for 2000 and earlier are not directly comparable with demographic shares for whites, blacks and Asians in 2004 and 2008. White, black and Asian demographic shares in 2004 and 2008 are for white only, black only, and Asian only populations, and do not include those of mixed race. These changes in the measurement of race do not affect the definition and measurement of the share Hispanic across all years (Suro, Fry and Passel, 2005).

2. In this report, "whites" refer to nonHispanic whites, "blacks" refer to nonHispanic blacks and "Asians" refers to nonHispanic Asians. Hispanics can be of any race. 3. According to the Current Population Survey November 2008 Voting and Registration Supplement, 131.1 million U.S. citizens say they voted in the 2008 presidential election, slightly lower than the 131.3 million votes cast for president as reported by the Center for the Study of the American Electorate (Gans, 2008). 4. The remaining share of voters in 2008 was of other racial or ethnic heritage. This group includes Native Americans and mixed-race voters. In 2008, 1.7% of all voters were of other race or ethnicity, up from 1.5% in 2004. 5. According to Pew Research Center tabulations from the Census Bureau's 2007 American Community Survey, blacks constitute 35% of eligible voters in Mississippi, 30% in Georgia, 21% in North Carolina, 31% in Louisiana and 58% in the District of Columbia. Nationally, 12.2% of all eligible voters are black.

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The U.S. Small Business Administration's (SBA) Web site at www.sba.gov/disaster_recov/prepared/getready.html offers disaster preparation tips and a list of topics business owners should consider in planning.

Protecting one's property from flooding is not continued from P.1 a concern strictly for residential property owners or renters. Business owners may consider purchasing flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). The proceeds of a claim payment are usually received within a very short period of time, allowing insured property owners to restore their normal course of business. For questions concerning the NFIP, contact a local insurance agent or the NFIP Call Center at 866-925-8789.

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