Making Every Moment Count by Mocha Market

VOLUME 3, ISSUE 1

SHERRI GRAVES SMITH

Making Every Moment Count

Meharry Medical College, founded in 1876, is the nation’s largest private, independent historically black academic health center dedicated to educating minority and other health professionals. True to its heritage, it is a United institution. The College is particularly well known for its uniquely nurturing, highly effective educational programs; emerging preeminence in health disparities research; culturally sensitive, evidence-based health services the diversity of the nation’s health professions workforce. Diverse Issues in Higher Education’s ranking of institutions annually lists Meharry as a leading national educator of African Americans with M.D. and D.D.S. degrees and Ph.D. degrees in the biomedical sciences.

1005 Dr. D.B. Todd Jr. Boulevard

Nashville, Tennessee 37208-3501

615-327-6000

To learn more about Meharry Medical College, visit www.mmc.edu.

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Friday, May 10, 2013 8:00 am-3:30 pm

For more information: www.leadercastnashville.com or call 615.479.6720 Brought to you by Mocha Market Media

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CONTENTS VOLUME 3 | ISSUE 1

FEATURED 33 Making Every Moment Count by Sherri Graves Smith

EVENTS 38 Calendar of Events

ARTICLES

40 Around Town LINKS 60th Anniversary LACC End of Year Mixer Alfred Edmond Bow Tie Launch Garden Brunch CafĂŠ 8th Biennial Beautillion 2012 NBCC Holiday Mixer CEO's on Diversity

14 A New Year's Resolution Worth Keeping by Jay Hurt

16 Healthy Finances in 2013 by Melanie Dean

18 Does Keeping Your Wisdom Teeth Make You Wiser? by Dr. D. Carl Jackson

22 A New Year, A New Word by Genma Holmes

24 2013: A Year of Great Goals by Derek Young

26 A Focus On New Beginnings Pictorial by Wells Photo Events

IN EVERY ISSUE

6 8 12 13 36 64

Letter from the Publisher Contributors A Page from Our History Grammatical Errors Nashville Black Chamber of Commerce Restaurant Spotlight

COVER PHOTO: Sherri Graves Smith

LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHER

ONE STICK AT A TIME

hen I was younger, I used to help my father haul wood. Upon arrival, I would notice the large pile of wood that seemed to be the size of a mountain. I would ask, “How are we going to move all of this wood?” My father would simply reply, “One stick at a time.” It seems tedious to perform an action and not see a reward. In the Compound Effect, Darren Hardy tells us about the importance of continuously doing the little things. It is the compound effect of doing these small, seemingly insignificant tasks that gives us the breakthrough for which we are looking. After loading the first few sticks of wood onto the truck, the wood pile didn't look any smaller, but I hadn't performed the task enough times! The small task of moving one stick of wood at a time eventually moved that “mountain.” On the flipside, if we continue with bad, unproductive habits, the cumulative effect of these habits over time will keep us from reaching our goals. So in 2013, let's not get overwhelmed by the large tasks, but instead let's concentrate on continuously doing those small things, creating good habits that will give us the results that we want! Sincerely,

Ernest V. Campbell III Publisher Mocha Market

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WHY DO MY FEET HURT? COULD IT BE NERVE DAMAGE? COME IN TO FIND OUT. GET TREATED AND GET BETTER. Peripheral neuropathy is the number one cause of limb loss in the United States. Diabetes is not the only cause. If you have any numbness, tingling, burning or stabbing pain in the feet and or hands, you could have neuropathy. This is a treatable illness if diagnosed early. Call for an appointment with a neuropathy specialist today and get better.

NEUROLOGY 4323 Carothers Parkway | Williamson Tower Suite 609 | Franklin, TN 37067 1IPOF t 'BY t 8FCTJUF XXX LDBEPDT DPN

Mocha Market Magazine VOLUME 3 | ISSUE 1

Publisher | Ernest V. Campbell III ernie@mochamarket.com Editor | Taylor Moore Graphic Designer | Denise Wells Editorial Contributors

WE CAN HELP! Contact Us at 615-479-6720 info@mochamarket.com

Create the Network

Jay Hurt

Sherri Graves Smith

Genma Holmes

D. Carl Jackson, DDS

Derek Young

Dr. Carmen April

Not Pictured: Melanie Dean Photographers CJ Wells Photography Walter Jones (Rhino Pic), Nashville Chapter of the Links Events If you would like to submit event photos, please send the materials to: info@mochamarket.com Submission and or receipt of the event materials does not guarantee coverage in the magazine or website.

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A Page from Our History Hiram Rhodes Revels

1827–1901

iram Rhodes Revels was born to free parents on September 27, 1827 in Fayetteville, North Carolina. Growing up in an era when it was illegal to educate black children, Revels gained an education from a freed black woman. By the age of 22, Revels became an ordained minister and established a private school for African American children. He also attended Knox College (Galesburg, IL) for two years and became one of the few African Americans in the United States to gain any amount of a college education. In 1868, he was elected as alderman in Natchez, Mississippi. He won over whites and blacks with his compassionate nature and moderate political views. On February 25, 1870, Revels was given the oath of office, becoming the first black man to be a United States Senator. Revels was known as a gifted orator who gave one of his most gripping speeches on the Senate floor: “I find that the prejudice in this country to color is very great, and I sometimes fear that it is on the increase. If the nation should take a step for the encouragement of this prejudice against the colored race, can they have any grounds upon which to predicate a hope that Heaven will smile upon them and prosper them?” After politics, Revels returned to education to become the first president of Alcorn Agricultural and Mechanical College (now Alcorn State University) in Rodney, Mississippi. He later would also teach at Shaw College (now Rust College) in Holly Springs, MS. Hiram Rhodes Revels died on January 16, 1901 from a stroke while attending a religious conference in Aberdeen, Mississippi.

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Grammatical Errors It's vs. Its

In most cases “ 's ” indicates possession, so “it's” would be the possessive form of “it”. WRONG!

It's

It's is a contraction of "it is" or "it has." Example: It's hot in here. It's been a long time.

Its

Its is the possessive form of "it." Example: This building has its own zip code. The dog ate all of its food.

HINT: If you can replace the word with "it is" or "it has," use “it's”. Otherwise, use “its”. M O C H A M A R K E T 13

s an author, I’m faced with new beginnings all of the time. How do I begin a blog? How do I begin an article for a website? How should I begin the next chapter in my book? The beginning of any task is very important. The beginning initiates the opportunity to start a new process. A strong and sturdy beginning sets the foundation for successful things to come. In our relationships, we need to consider a solid beginning that leads to a healthy and beneficial future with our significant other or spouse. When it comes to relationships, there should be a foundation of love, honor, and respect “in the beginning.” We MUST respect one another in several forms. We need to respect one’s time, attention, space, and place in life. Most importantly, we must respect one another as human beings. We must also love our better half. If the relationship is a long term relationship, there will be love on an emotional level. We need to be able to express our love to one another as well. Become fluent in your man or woman’s Love Language.1 14

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Those points of the foundation are important, but the one I want to discuss is the one we often forget—honor. We want to begin this year with honor in our relationships. Some of the definitions of honor are: high public esteem, to hold in high respect, merit. We have to honor each other in relationships. I know many women who are dating or married who feel like men don’t honor them in relationships. Some women don’t feel honored by their husband or significant other as being the mother of their children. Some women don’t feel honored to be the person who takes care of the household, often because the man takes that for granted. I know some women who are not honored by men because they are career women. In 2013, we’re changing this mindset. Men, don’t just compliment your wives and significant others. Praise them in front of others for what they do in your life. “High Public Esteem” isn’t about fame or fake praise, but it’s about honoring your woman as a wife, caregiver, mother, accountant, mechanic, tutor, lover and the many other hats she may wear during her day. Ladies, your men need to be honored as well. Honor is holding your man in high regard in front of others. Other women may be dogging their men, but you must remember

A New Year's Resolution Honor In Our Relationships by JAY HURT

that he’s working diligently to take care of you and the family. You can honor him even when he’s not around because he’s being the best father, husband, lover, and head of household he can be. The world’s greatest men have all made mistakes, but they have also been honored by their wives. Ladies, I can speak for many when I say, “The rest of the world may be against your man at work, in social circles, and believe it or not, maybe even at church.” You can’t control any of that. The one thing you can do, which may help to overshadow the negativity in his life, is honor him for who he is. He may not even share with you his challenges or pain. Sometimes, that’s how we men are built. Please be aware that if your husband, fiancée, or significant other is assisting in providing for you and your family, he has a lot of weight on his shoulders. If you show that you merit and value his position to you, at least he knows the people that matter most have his back when he may feel life is dealing him a tough hand or the world is against him. Once a day, let’s remind each other of how we honor one another. Use positive statements like, “Darling, I appreciate how you take care of me and the kids.” Another example is, “My friends are always complaining about their husbands.

Apparently, everyone couldn’t get an awesome husband like I did!” When we remind them of their position in our lives or mention the privilege we have of being in this relationship together, that’s expressing our honor for one another. Honor each other whether around them or not. Take the opportunity of this new beginning and New Year to publicly and privately accentuate the positive in your man or woman. They will definitely be glad you did. There’s a resolution actually worth keeping! Resource: www.the5lovelangues.com

Jay Hurt is a freelance writer, blogger, relationship coach and author of 9 Tenets of a Successful Relationship, for Singles. You can reach Jay at www.9tenets.blogspot.com or via email at jayhurt21@gmail.com.

M O C H A M A R K E T 15

HEALTHY FINANCES IN 2013

Resolutions or Goals?

by MELANIE DEAN

ost people have different and sometimes uncomfortable financial feelings in January. However, I view January as an opportunity to define obtainable goals for the new year. I must acknowledge that some of the financial goals of last year werenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t met, but the possibilities for 2013 bring about excitement. 16

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I encourage my clients to focus on “healthy” finances. The healthy view of money integrates behavior, psychology, and strategy. Healthy finances can be achieved by any person who respects income. Healthy finances are not attained with a person who is irrespective of wealth. As you consider your finances for 2013, I hope you consider whether it will be a resolution or a goal. Resolutions are usually soon forgotten and sometimes too ambitious. However, goals are established by looking backward and forward to see what is needed and possible. Goals have specific dollar values and a target date for completion. The critical determinant of one’s success is in defining what actions are needed to accomplish goals. If you’d like to master healthy finances in 2013, be sure to focus on the following.

Behavior

Taxes—We know this will be a year of higher taxes. How much and where is still a matter of great debate. It is certain that passive investment income will be taxed higher. A 3.8% tax increase will be added to help fund the Affordable Health Care Act. Great strategies, such as capital gain exchanges, rollover of equity asset purchases, and using investment proceeds for funding Roth IRA accounts, are ideas to minimize this impact. Each of these achieves the same goal of tax deferral until rates are more favorable. Mortgage Review—Mortgages for new home purchasers should be no higher than 3.5% x 30 years or 3% x 15 years, depending on your credit rating. If you plan to keep the home for 5 years or more, the existing mortgages should be maintained no higher than 5.5% x 30 years or 5% x 15 years.

"The critical determinant of one’s success is in defining what actions are needed to accomplish goals."

Cash flow management will determine whether you are successful. Matching distribution of your dollars with stated goals is the only way to achieve this. Many people are intimidated by completing and maintaining a budget. However, my concept of “top down money management” makes formal budgeting unnecessary. What is top down money management? If you were demoted or had to start a new job making $10-50k less in 2013, could you handle it? The usual response is, “Yes, but I sure hope that doesn’t happen.” The solution to effective cash management without the hassle of detailed budgeting is to pretend like you budgeted. After carefully defining your financial goals, you know the amount of money it will take to meet them. If you subtract this amount prorated monthly from your income, by automated draft, before anything else is spent, your goals will be funded on schedule (I.e. retirement contributions, building an investment account, eliminating a major debt, etc.). The magic and simplicity of this first step is that when you look at the remaining balance in your checking account, it reflects what you truly have left to spend. When it’s gone, you are effectively broke for any discretionary spending. PSYCHOLOGY—Your goals must be on top! This is another major determinant of financial success. Although you love many people, have compassion for many causes, feel your adult children could possibly use a little help, you must make yourself a priority in order to meet goals. It is “healthy” to put your finances first, whether people agree or not. STRATEGY—In 2013, what specifics do you need to factor into your plan? Is there a strategy that would be the best to implement?

Seasoned Financial Advice—Your financial advisor should have at least 10 years of experience in the industry. Many people have entered the financial industry in the last 5 years to meet the high demand of retiring baby boomers. Investors face the challenge of determining who is best qualified to manage their money. It’s required for each advisor to learn enough to obtain a license, but experience is very important. Seasoned financial professionals are more expensive. However, that’s usually minimal when compared to the cost of bad advice. Consider all of the above to assure healthy finances in 2013. Then, you can smile with me next January when defining new goals for 2014.

Melanie Dean, CFP, CLTC, MPH President, Dean Financial LLC (615) 377-0222 melanie.dean@lpl.com www.lpl.com/deanfinancial.

M O C H A M A R K E T 17

Does Keeping Your Wisdom Teeth Make You

Wiser? by D. CARL JACKSON, DDS

"If not removed, impacted wisdom teeth may damage neighboring teeth or become infected."

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here isn’t a day spent in my practice that I am not confronted with questions from my patients about the necessity of having their wisdom teeth removed. Wisdom teeth, or third molars, are the last teeth to develop and appear in your mouth. Third molars have been referred to as “teeth of wisdom” since the Seventeenth Century and simply “wisdom teeth” since the Nineteenth Century. They generally appear much later than other teeth, usually between the ages of 17 and 25 when a person reaches adulthood. It is generally believed that they are called wisdom teeth because they appear so late at an age when a person matures into adulthood and is “wiser” than when other teeth have erupted.

Impacted Teeth

When a tooth is unable to fully enter the mouth, it is said to be "impacted." Generally, impacted teeth are unable to break through the gums because there is not enough room. Impacted wisdom teeth may erupt only partially or not at all. An impacted wisdom tooth may: t (SPX BU BO BOHMF UPXBSE UIF OFYU UPPUI (second molar) t (SPX BU BO BOHMF UPXBSE UIF CBDL PG UIF NPVUI t (SPX BU B SJHIU BOHMF UP UIF PUIFS UFFUI BT JG UIF XJTEPN UPPUI JT "lying down" within the jawbone t (SPX TUSBJHIU VQ PS EPXO MJLF PUIFS UFFUI CVU TUBZ USBQQFE XJUIJO UIF jawbone.

Common problems associated with impacted wisdom teeth

If not removed, impacted wisdom teeth may damage neighboring teeth or become infected. Because the third molar area of the mouth is difficult to clean, it is a site that invites the bacteria that leads to gum disease. In addition, oral bacteria may travel from your mouth through the bloodstream, where it may lead to possible systemic infections and illnesses that affect other organs of the body, including the heart and kidneys. In some cases, a fluid-filled cyst or tumor may form around the base of the untreated wisdom tooth. As the cyst grows, it may lead to more serious problems as it hollows out the jaw and damages surrounding nerves, teeth, and other structures. Studies have shown that once gum disease is established in the third molar areas, the problem is persistent and progressive, but may improve following extraction of the teeth.

removing a wisdom tooth. These conditions include how the tooth is positioned and the stage of root development. If the wisdom tooth is impacted, the surgery can be more complicated. Most of the time, third molars can be removed with little or no pain. Usually, they can be extracted at the oral and maxillofacial surgery office. Patients are given either local anesthesia, intravenous sedation, or general anesthesia. Your surgeon will recommend the anesthetic option that is right for you.

Symptom free wisdom teeth

Many people believe that as long as they are not hurting, they do not have to worry about their wisdom teeth. However, pain free does not mean disease or problem free. In fact, wisdom teeth that come in normally may still be prone to disease. The American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons strongly recommend that third molars be evaluated by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon by the time a patient is a young adult. This is done in order to assess the presence of third molars, disease status, and to suggest management options. In general, dental and medical professionals agree that wisdom teeth should be removed in the following instances: t 1BJO t *OGFDUJPO BOE PS HVN EJTFBTF t %BNBHF UP BO BEKBDFOU UPPUI t %FWFMPQNFOU PG B Ä&#x2DC;VJE Ä&#x2022;MMFE TBD DZTU BSPVOE the wisdom tooth t %BNBHF UP TVSSPVOEJOH CPOF t $PNQMJDBUJPOT XJUI PSUIPEPOUJD USFBUNFOUT UP straighten other teeth t 6OSFTUPSBCMF DBWJUJFT

Preparing for Surgery

If your dentist or healthcare professional recommends that your wisdom teeth be removed, you will most likely be referred to an oral and maxillofacial surgeon for the procedure. Before surgery, your oral surgeon will discuss the procedure and tell you what to expect. This is a good time to ask questions. Mention concerns you have. Be sure to let your doctor know about any illnesses you have and medications you are taking. There are several conditions that affect the difficulty of

What to Expect after Surgery?

Following surgery, you may experience some swelling and mild discomfort, which are part of the normal healing process. Cold/Hot compresses may help decrease the swelling, and medication prescribed by your oral and maxillofacial surgeon can help manage the discomfort. You may be instructed to alter your diet following surgery and later progress to more normal foods.

Alternatives to Surgery

After discussing your situation with your family dentist or oral and maxillofacial surgeon, you may decide to keep your wisdom teeth that are fully erupted, painless, cavity-free, and are disease-free that may not require extraction. They do, however, require regular, professional cleaning, annual checkups, and periodic x-rays to monitor for any changes.

Dr. Jackson has over 18 years of experience in dental and oral surgery. For more information, fell free to give him a call at 615-669-9987 or visit www.mtosc-surgery.com.

M O C H A M A R K E T 19

lways bear in mind that your own resolution to succeed is more important than any other.

â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Abraham Lincoln

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M O C H A M A R K E T 21

hope pray change family peace A NEW YEAR, A NEW WORD by GENMA HOLMES

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ach year, millions, with the best intentions, promise to make the New Year “the best year yet.” Often, resolutions are written down without plans to make them work. Losing weight, saving more money, or starting a new business are resolutions that are usually discarded before the New Year has turned a week old. After a rousing chorus of “Auld Lang Syne” has been sung, reality hits many that resolutions from last year are being recycled without accomplishments. Several years ago, I stopped making resolutions of things I want to do in the New Year. I began focusing on a word to define what I wanted to achieve in life. In 2008, the words hope and change were everywhere because of the election. Our country was feeling hopeless, and many were begging for leadership that would inspire them to change. I was hoping for big changes in my life. The election of 2008 did change how our country was defined around the world. I changed how I defined what I wanted in life by being focused and intentional. In 2009, my word choice was pray. I was on bended knees daily. Because of my prayer life, I saw the word pray everywhere I turned. I saw the word on bumper stickers, billboards, tee shirts, and key rings. I realized my energy was put on what I focused on in life. My energy output determined what I got out of life. My prayers to God determined that my resolutions I sought would come through Him. The outcome of my year of prayers led me to become a prayer warrior and a woman who had more discernment. There were changes in my life, but the biggest change was how I defined my prayer life. In 2010, my word choice was family. That year, the health of my grandmother, mother, and father took drastic turns. My children also threw me a few curve balls as well. With the word family boldly nailed to my wall, my family was my focus, both mentally and physically. I was in a constant state of movement from one situation to another. It seemed as if crisis was the word I had chosen. By the end of 2010, I knew the importance of having frank conversations with family members about their wishes if they were unable to take care of themselves. I also shared my wishes as well. 2010 was a year of putting out family fires. In 2011, I sought peace. I wanted nothing to do with drama. I did not avoid conflicts, but I did not embrace them. In 2011, I said the word peace every day. The more I said the word, the more God showed me contention that needed to be addressed. I took an inventory of people in my life, looked at my extracurricular actives, and drew boundaries. Almost instantly, peace in abundance came to me as I put my time and energy into doing things that were truly benefitting others and gave me a sense of purpose. The more I looked

for peace, the more I saw my personal goals come together. As I cut out strife and confusion, more opportunities were revealed unto me. Being focused allowed me to not allow distractions to block my blessings. In the summer of 2011, I began producing Living Your Best Life radio show. I was given more than I ever hoped or imagined. In December of 2011, a friend, Catherine Ramsey, wanted to give books as Christmas gifts for a Girl Scout troop. Both of us being avid book readers, Catherine suggested that I read to the girls. As my favorite character, Ms. Santa, I read to the Girl Scout troop. Catherine’s idea led me to choose the word read in 2012. In 2012, I began reading at elementary schools regularly and visiting a nursing home monthly. No matter how packed my schedule was, nothing interfered with me sharing adventures from a book with my special friends. Most of 2012 seemed to involve reading books in one aspect or another. I was involved in a book club with women, had numerous authors as guests on Living Your Best Life, attended author book signings around the country, travelled with the First Lady of TN, Crissy Haslam, as she promoted her reading and early education initiatives, asked to co-author a book series with Milestone Publishing, supported friends opening a book store (Eastside Story), and asked to be a celebrity book reader for a fundraiser. My personal passion for reading books had taken on a life of its own as I read every genre. I was not reading to just read, but I was reading because I actually loved it. I learned that when I chose a word, my word choice petitions an action from me. The word hope meant believing change could happen. The word pray meant praying meaningful prayers. As I look back at how each word brought transformations, I realize how each year prepared me for the next chapter of my life. In 2013, the word give speaks loudly to me. Several phrases keep repeating themselves over and over, such as “give abundantly,” “givers gain,” and “giving and living.” I do not know what is in store for me, but I love the foundation that each word has given me to face the challenges and the excitement of a New Year. Join me on my journey. Choose a word, and embrace it in 2013.

Genma Holmes is a mother, author and talk show host of Living Your Best Life. She can be heard locally on 760 The Gospel and on her blog Genma Speaks (http://genmaspeaks.blogspot.com).

M O C H A M A R K E T 23

The Year of Great Goals by DEREK YOUNG

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reat professionals recognize that becoming an “Outlier” (Gladwell) requires “Sharpening the Saw” (Covey), going “From Good to Great” (Collins), and sometimes even “Swimming with the Sharks” (Mackay). More importantly, great professionals understand the importance of setting “great goals.” Over the past 30 years, I have learned a few goal-setting secrets from some of the country’s top professionals.

Crystallize Your Leadership Legacy

Visualize the date December 31, 2013, and consider what your boss, peers, customers, and team members will be saying about your performance during the year. By establishing a clear vision for your leadership legacy, you can increase your commitment to winning behaviors and successful strategies. Leadership is the trait that differentiates professionals from employees and entrepreneurs from business owners. Leadership is the quality that empowers you to accomplish challenging goals by guiding and influencing others more effectively. By establishing a clear end-game for all your efforts, you can elevate your ability to lead in 2013.

Boss Basics

In planning for great success in 2013, one of the most critical relationships to assess is your relationship with your boss. The answers to these and other questions will enhance the quality of your work life in the New Year. (1) What are your boss’s most pressing priorities? (2) How does the way you do your job impact your boss’s standing in the organization? (3) How will the accomplishment of your goals maximize your boss’s strengths or uncover your boss’s weaknesses? After you have answered these questions, there are a few more that are vital for your success. (4) How secure is your boss about your success? (5) Will your boss support or block your success? (6) Is there a way to achieve your goals such that your boss feels safe and you can be safe in your position? Join the many high-performing professionals who ask these questions as a normal part of their goal-setting process.

Mentoring Matters

While I can’t seem to decide which character I prefer, Mr. Miyagi from the first Karate Kid movie or Mr. Han from the recent version, there is one thought that’s clear. Professionals who want to accelerate their performance in 2013 should gain mentoring. Both Karate Kid characters demonstrate the powerful impact a mentor can have on the pursuit of excellence. In my opinion, a mentor is a person who can and will help you achieve your goals. There are several kinds of mentors to consider:

Holistic Mentor: offers insight on a wide array of personal and professional topics. Subject Matter Mentor: provides direction and connections for specific areas of knowledge and skill, such as strategic planning, dealing with negative employees, or priority management. Career Mentor: equips you with perspectives on achieving upward mobility and “playing the game”. In seeking mentoring, remember to focus on receiving ideas and insights that will help you perform better— technically and interpersonally. While it would be ideal to find your own Mr. Miyagi or Mr. Han to provide endless hours of guidance and instruction, today’s work world makes that a rare option. That’s why I recommend you avoid asking someone “to be your mentor” or asking someone “to mentor you”. Instead, ask them for insight on a topic. If they help you and open the door to do it again, they are being a mentor. Keep accepting the mentoring as long as you are growing and being positively supported.

How S.M.A.R.T. Are Your Goals?

Thanks to Dr. Edwin Locke, Professor Emeritus at The University of Maryland, professionals use the S.M.A.R.T. goal-setting framework to set goals that increase performance. Having goals that are specific, measurable, attainable, realistic and time-bound empowers you to envision the outcomes and destinations you want to reach. Notice the difference between a goal and a S.M.A.R.T. goal. Goal: In 2013, I will increase my level of productivity to have success in the department. S.M.A.R.T. Goal: I will make five client calls per day to achieve twenty product sales per month to gross $360,000 in sales by December 15, 2013. The beauty of S.M.A.R.T. goals is that they help you clarify, quantify, and prioritize the actions you must take to produce desired outcomes. After you have established your 2013 leadership legacy, ask a mentor or peer to review your goals to ensure that they are S.M.A.R.T.

Great Goals

Following these goal-setting ideas can help you reach new heights in your career.

Derek Young is a motivational speaker, leadership trainer and corporate leader for some of the world’s greatest organizations. You can find more information about Derek at www.derekyoungspeaks. com or by calling 615-593-6041.

M O C H A M A R K E T 25

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A Focus On New Beginnings A Pictorial by WELLS PHOTO EVENTS

rom the moment you announce your engagement, there are numerous decisions that must be made (deciding on a wedding date, searching for a wedding dress, reserving a venue, etc.). In the same manner that one would take considerable care in selecting a florist, event planner, and caterer; one must do the same when selecting a photographer for what will be one of the most memorable days in a persons life.

M O C H A M A R K E T 27

Today's wedding photography goes beyond the basic ceremony coverage. Photographer's now offer a complete service (from the engagement to the wedding and reception).

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M O C H A M A R K E T 29

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Take time to reflect your individual style in the special details of your day. This is what makes your wedding unique to who you are and should be incorporated into the memories captured by your photographer.

Craig Wells and Denise Wells make up the brother and sister photography team of Wells Photo Events, specializing in weddings & engagements. You can view more of their work at www.WellsPhotoEvents.com.

M O C H A M A R K E T 31

Making Every Moment Count Life through the eyes of a Fortune 100 attorney What happens when you follow all the rules and life knocks you down? Your plans for the future have taken a back-seat to reality. What would you do when given only an 8% chance of survival?

Living Life to Its Fullest Potential by SHERRI GRAVES SMITH

M O C H A M A R K E T 33

orget looking at whether the cup is half empty or half full. Have you ever felt like your cup was completely empty? Have you ever felt like the contents of the cup have left you at the point of giving up? What if you were told that you only had an 8% chance of living five years? Would that break your will to live or bring out the victor in you? Would you see the value in each day and every moment? Well, thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s my story. In November of 2000, I joined The Coca-Cola Companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Legal Division as an attorney at the headquarters in Atlanta, Georgia. After taking an international assignment as the Assistant Division Counsel for Coca-Cola Ltd. in Toronto, Canada, I was being considered for a three-year position in Vienna, Austria. Life was good! My career was on track. That all came to a screeching halt after a routine visit to the doctor revealed that I had colorectal cancer. Without family history of cancer, the doctors were just as shocked as I. I really did not have time to think about the gravity of my situation. I was so shocked! Things quickly turned very serious. I had surgery to have a port inserted and ovarian tissue frozen in case I would marry and want the option of having a family. Then, I immediately began an aggressive course of treatments that included thirty days chemotherapy and thirty days of radiation. The radiation treatments were worse than the chemotherapy. My skin was burned to the point where my skin turned grey and flaked off. In fact, it became so bad that I had to go into the hospital. A lot of friends and family came through to be of support. One in particular was a lifelong friend, Charles Smith, who became my primary caretaker and my soon-to-be husband. While in the hospital, my digestive system stopped working, and I could barely drink. I was placed on Total Parenteral Nutrition (TPN) in order to meet my daily nutritional requirements. I became so thin that pillows were

Charles and Sherri Smith 34

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placed around my knees and back because it was just skin on top of bones. After seven weeks of being on TPN, I regained my ability to eat. Then, I started a regimen of twelve more treatments of chemotherapy. During that time, I got engaged. In the midst of a terrible storm, I found what true love was. Charles had been my lifelong friend. In having him become a caretaker, I experienced an unconditional love that I had never known outside of my family. He carried me when I could not walk. He washed my hair, prayed with me, consoled me when I cried, and allowed me to be vulnerable. I looked my very worse, and somehow, he treated me like the girl of his dreams. To my surprise, I learned that the cancer metastasized to both of my lungs. When I found out about the metastasis, I was frustrated that I had to resume chemotherapy. I became even more discouraged once I saw that I had an 8% chance of living five years according to the American Cancer Societyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s website. Nevertheless, I started chemotherapy again. The sideeffects were so bad that every time I would infuse, I ended up in the emergency room or the hospital. My prayerful and close relationship with God began to change. However, I learned a lesson during my hospital stay about the prayers of the righteous. My faith was like an empty tank of gas, but the compassion and love of others came through for me. Eventually, I got better and was able to leave the hospital. I remember crying in the car during the entire drive home because I could not believe that I had survived. I realized that when my faith is weak, God has people who administer on our behalf. At the beginning of my third year of chemotherapy, I encountered one of my biggest devastations ever. I found out that my condition was chronic. Due to the nature of the aggression of the disease, neither I nor a baby would survive a pregnancy. To keep the disease stable, I would need to be on chemotherapy for the rest of my life. In a day, I felt as if I had lost my hopes of recovery, the family for which I had always longed, my career, and my dreams of my future. I used Job 13:15 and Philippians 4:4-7 as sources of encouragement and motivation. From that, I thanked God for how far He had brought me and asked Him to help me live the rest of my life to its fullest potential and for His glory. My first step was to give back to the community as a way of showing my thankfulness in being alive, being able to afford medical care, and being able to continue to have quality of life. In talking to other patients and the social worker where I receive treatments, I learned that some patients had to skip treatments and doctors' appointments because they did not have money for gas, parking, or a babysitter. There were instances where some patients were covered for the chemotherapy treatments, but had no coverage for pain and nausea medication. There were situations where one spouse needed to take care of the other spouse resulting in

no income being brought into a household. I began my research and learned that an all volunteerbased 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, Atlanta Cancer Care Foundation (ACCF), had been founded by the doctors where I receive treatment. It provides assistance to cancer patients in the greater metropolitan Atlanta area who are facing financial devastation as a result of going through treatments. With the help of the manager, Angus Haig, of Coca-Cola’s Legal Division, an event took place that raised $155,000 for the ACCF. The first event was held at The World of Coca-Cola in June 2011, and I was a featured speaker among a sold out crowd of 600 people. I wanted to find a way to re-enter the world and interact with people, while balancing my chemotherapy regimen. I am a lifelong avid reader and always have held a special place in my heart for children. In between naps and during treatments, I wrote books as a way to pass time and read articles about how to become a published author. In my first series, I chose to write about manners and sportsmanship. This led to a publishing contract with Mascot Books, Inc. While waiting for my books to launch, I followed the Presidential elections very closely. My interest with issues about the economy and health care led me to write my thoughts about Mitt Romney’s 47% statement. I posted my opinion along with the article on Facebook. By the following morning, it had gone viral which led to it becoming published on “The Huffington Post.” This post landed me a position as a regular blogger for the publication. To date, my publications in “The Huffington Post” have addressed topics ranging from addressing the challenges of people who receive government assistance to health care being a humanitarian issue that does not need to be politicized. In November 2012, my first book, “Big Al Game Day Rules” debuted. I had planned two launches to take place in Tuscumbia, Alabama and Tuscaloosa, Alabama. Life, being life, slipped up on me again the week of my first launch. I had a PET-Scan that revealed my body was resisting the chemotherapy and that I needed to go on a new medication. I had forgotten what it was like to feel healthy. I needed some time to allow myself to grieve without becoming a slave to grief. I deeply meditated on Psalms 91, while reminding myself how God had brought me a long way. I knew I needed to continue to trust Him. I moved forward and had incredible experiences at both of my launches. Eventually, Books-AMillion picked up my books for book signings and readings.

For the month of December, I toured in Alabama at various Books-A-Million locations and read at schools and a medical clinic for children. Last year, “Hairy Dawg’s Game Day Rules” for the University of Georgia, “Buzz’s Game Day Rules” for Georgia Tech, “The Blue Devil’s Game Day Rules” for Duke University, and “Rameses Game Day Rules” for the University of North Carolina debuted as well. My first alphabet book and counting book, “Big Al Teaches the Alphabet” and “Counting with Big Al” debuted at the end of 2012, and will be released in early 2013. I am not going to pretend that my life is easy. In fact, it is very difficult. I have suffered, and I still suffer at times. I have lost many things, and I have had many hurts and disappointments. I thought that I would be well into my life as a wife, mother, and attorney for Coca-Cola by now. In many ways, my cup was not half-full or half empty, but it became empty. I have learned that when one’s cup is empty, there is an opportunity to fill it with what you need and even what you want. I chose love, faith, hope, laughter, creativity, compassion, and joy. God started filling my cup with all of those things and more. So as I start 2013, I am thankful to be alive, and I am having the time of my life! In my wildest dreams, I never imagined that I would start the new year as a published author of children’s books, a featured blogger for “The Huffington Post,” a philanthropist for the Atlanta Cancer Care Foundation, and a volunteer reader to children. Despite my circumstances, my life is filled with unexpected blessings. My continued resolution for 2013 is the same one that I have for each day I live—to live life to its fullest potential, thank God for every day, and continue to allow God to fill my cup.

"I thought that I would be well into my life as a wife, mother, and attorney for Coca-Cola by now."

To find out more about Sherri Graves Smith, please visit her website at www.gamedayrules.com. You can also find her blogs on www.thehuffingtonpost.com. To find out more about the Atlanta Cancer Care Foundation, please visit www.atlantacancercarefoundation.org.

M O C H A M A R K E T 35

NBCC Sponsored

he Nashville Black Chamber of Commerce (NBCC) is honored to collaborate with Mocha Market to provide the Business Spotlight section. With the support of our sponsors, each issue in this section will highlight the works of various individuals within the Nashville community who are helping to empower and support the growth of local African-American businesses and organizations. Each article will also focus on those whose efforts reflect NBCC’s current theme, “Moving Forward.”

For more information about NBCC, visit www.nashvilleblackchamber.org.

NBCC Corporate Sponsors: HCA/Tri Star AT&T Regions Bank Nashville Convention & Visitors Bureau Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority Onsite News InfoWorks Hoskins & Company

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NBCC Sponsored

How to Reach Your Greatest Potential

by Kia Jarmon

hile speaking at two local high schools as a part of the Nashville Black Chamber of Commerce’s School Partnership Initiative, I was asked to compile a list of actions to help us reach our greatest potential. I encourage you to apply these tips and see what you will be able to accomplish.

of your neck stand up, the goose bumps rise, or the pit of your stomach knot. While it can be a great feeling, we usually use it to keep us out of danger. Don’t dismiss that feeling. You know what feels right and what looks right. You could help your business by beginning to listen to your internal self.

CARE ABOUT OTHERS. How often do you have a conversation with someone where you are completely engaged—technology and social media free? Almost never, right? The most successful people in the world care about others. It’s not because they have money or fame, but rather because they use their influence to impact the community. They give their time, attention, and resources because they know that giving breeds getting.

FIND AND FOLLOW LIKE-MINDED PEOPLE. It has been said that the five people you hang around are those you are most likely to be like. I have a diverse group of friends who all fit into different sections of my professional life. I am proud to know that any member of any group I associate with is already where I am, moving to where I am, or we are moving together. I challenge you to analyze your circle. Where do you fit in? How does your circle fit you?

Exercise: The goal is to find a person in the room you know the least and have a 1-minute, engaging conversation. Start with statements like “I am,” “I will be,” or “I do.” Name one interesting thing you want the other person to know. During the conversation, you are challenged to put down your cell phone, look the other person in the eye, and ask follow up questions based on what they have shared. Did you learn something? I’m sure you did. Now, you have the opportunity to apply it to your business networking. DO MORE THAN TALK. There are two types of people in the world: doers and talkers. Which one are you? I’ve learned in life, including within my own business, that when you share too much you give away your power. We have so many platforms on which to share, but I always challenge my clients to share when they have gone from do to done (or at least doing). TAP INTO YOUR INTUITION. You are walking down the darkest city street, and you come upon a pitch dark alley. What is your first reaction? More than likely, you are going to turn around and go the other way.

BE DIFFERENT. What stands out about you? Why do people call on you versus someone else? It’s not about forcing the different to come out, but rather identifying what makes you different. VALUE YOU. It is important to respect others, but it is even more important to respect and value your own time, talents, and resources. Know that your time is worth something. Think of what you bring to the table that makes you invaluable to others. If you value you, others will too! ALIGN PASSION WITH CALLING. This is one of the first steps of business building. Passion alone is not enough reason to start something. As you can imagine, we can find ourselves passionate about quite a few things. However, you must bridge the powerful emotion and boundless enthusiasm (passion) with the reason you were placed here. What are you called to do?

Intuition is that feeling that makes the hair on the back

M O C H A M A R K E T 37

CALENDAR OF EVENTS | MM

JANUARY 2013

Stunning vocalist Dee Dee Bridgewater joins bassist Christian McBride and his quintet for a tribute to the Monterey Jazz Festival, the longest-running jazz festival in the world. This very special presentation will capture the festivalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s adventurous, exuberant spirit with an evening of joyful fun, classic songs and original compositions. Location: The Schermerhorn, 8 pm.

FEBRUARY 2013

09 38

The Vintage Affair presents A Fashion Affair 2013 featuring Jeff Garner. A Fashion Affair is a runway and wine event raising funds for women's and children's charities in Williamson County. Location: The Franklin Theatre, 7 pm Cocktail hour, 8 pm Runway show.

John Oates is a rock and soul guitarist, musician, and songwriter best known as half of the rock and soul duo Hall & Oates. The Franklin Theatre is very excited to spend an acoustic evening with John Oates as he plays some of your Hall & Oates classic favorites as well as his newer solo material! Showtime: 8 pm.

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MM | CALENDAR OF EVENTS

FEBRUARY 2013

14 &15

Spend the most romantic evening of the year with Motown legend Smokey Robinson, and treat your beloved to a magical night at the Schermerhorn! Showtimes: 8 pm.

15 16

Smokey Robinson

A nineteen-time Grammy nominee, four-time Grammy winner, and all-time guitar great, Larry Carlton has performed on more than 100 Gold or Platinum albums. Carlton, whose career spans three decades, also was previously a member of the Crusaders and multiplatinum jazz super group Fourplay. He is also a recipient of Guitar Player Magazine’s Lifetime Achievement Award. Location: Franklin Theatre, 7 pm.

Based on a West African folk tale, The Singing Tortoise is a fun-for-all-ages children’s ballet. Narration, whimsical costumes and a short performance time make The Singing Tortoise a great way to introduce dance to children of all ages. Location: TPAC's Polk Theater, 2 pm.

MARCH 2013

With his new album, Living Proof, Buddy Guy takes a long hard look back at a remarkable life. At age 74, he's a Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, a major influence on rock titans like Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton and Stevie Ray Vaughan, a pioneer of Chicago's fabled West Side sound, and a living link to that city's halcyon days of electric blues. Buddy Guy and Jonny Lang. Location: War Memorial Auditorium 8 pm. Buddy Guy M O C H A M A R K E T 39

Nashville (TN) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated Photos Courtesy of Nashville Chapter of LINKS

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Shirley Corry, Linda Spears, Alice Strong-Simmons (Central Area Director, The Links, Incorporated), Margot Copeland (National President, The Links, Incorporated), Tracy Hardin, Florence Kidd, Kristi Faulkner

he Nashville (TN) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated celebrated its 60th Anniversary on Saturday, November 17, 2012 at the Hutton Hotel. The evening featured a special history presentation by author, Alice Randall Ewing, and a tribute to founding member, Ivanetta Davis (RIGHT), by her granddaughter, Ivanetta Davis-Samuels.

M O C H A M A R K E T 41

LINKS 60TH ANNIVERSARY

Gloria Freeman, Gwendolyn Watt, Dorothy Berry, LaVoneia Steele

Derrick Dowell, Elnora Hansen

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Irving Brown II & Katherine Brown

LINKS 60TH ANNIVERSARY

Melvin Black, Dorothy Berry, James Potts

Robert Poole, Ruth Manson, Kathy Poole

Helen and Tyrone Smith

Back row: David Ewing, Ricky Ewing Front row: Alice Ewing, Sandy Ewing

M O C H A M A R K E T 43

Serenatta with Pablo Garzon

he Latin American Chamber of Commerce held it's end-ofyear networking event at Club Ibiza. Guests were treated with South American hors d'oeuvres, Latin American wines and tequilas, and a silent auction. Music was provided by Serenatta with Pablo Garzon. PHOTOGRAPHY: CJ WELLS PHOTOGRAPHY

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Ili Hernandez and Ramon Navarro

Minh Nghiem and Matthew Johnson

Kirk Gwaltney and Nelson Remus

Joanie French and Louis Tapia

Rossana Salcedo and Edubina Arce

Rachel Rodriguez and Olivia Ruiz M O C H A M A R K E T 45

un, food, and fashion were the highlights of the Windsor Neckwear launch party. Guests sampled food from various local restaurants, shopped for menswear, and listened to live musical performances. Award-winning journalist Alfred Edmond, Jr. (SVP/Editor-at-large of BLACK ENTERPRISE) was on hand to celebrate the launch. PHOTOGRAPHY: CJ WELLS PHOTOGRAPHY

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Top: Mike McPherson, Alfred Edmond, and Mace Neal Bottom Left: Brandon Walker and Ronald Gooch; Bottom Right: Eastern Smith and Crystal McPherson

M O C H A M A R K E T 47

ALFRED ADMOND BOW TIE LAUNCH

Top Left: James Springer and Verneka Murphy; Top Right: Sekou Charles and Jamiene Irons Bottom Left: Tory and Nicole Dahlenburg; Bottom Right: Tea Kozul, Mia Kozul, Amber Davis

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ALFRED EDMOND BOW TIE LAUNCH

Top Left: Benjamin Ancrum, Jer'Mykeal McCoy, Philippe Andal; Top Right: A. Latrice Cushenberry and Gerry George; Bottom Left: Sonja Dixon and Jonathan Winstead; Bottom Right: Kim, Jordan and Sean Page

M O C H A M A R K E T 49

Rod McGaha

he Garden Brunch Cafe celebrated the holiday season with Nashville's own jazz trumpeter Rod McGaha. Rod performed a tribute to "Christmas in New Orleans" and an evening of "2nd line" grooves. Dinner selections, prepared by Chef Jennifer Carpenter, included gumbo, blackened salmon, steaks, and homemade desserts. PHOTOGRAPHY: CJ WELLS PHOTOGRAPHY

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Kenneth and Lori Forte, Vivian Bowles, Eric D. Williams

Clyde and Donna Poag

Teree McCormick

Rhonda Newbord and Brenda McClellan

Gail Walton and Michelle Fairnanks M O C H A M A R K E T 51

CHRISTMAS IN NEW ORLEANS

Left: Marcus Finnie, Top: Christina Coleman, Bottom: Kendall and Erica Greer

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CHRISTMAS IN NEW ORLEANS

Top: Jay and Linda Slobey, Teree McCormick, Karl and Jennifer Carpenter Bottom Left: James and Mildred Walters, Bottom Right: Katherine Warner and Richard Dinkins

M O C H A M A R K E T 53

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op Ladies of Distinction, Inc. Nashville Capital City Chapter held its 8th Biennial Beautillion 2012 on Sunday, December 16, 2012 at the Franklin Marriott Conference Center at Cool Springs.

The members of Top Ladies of Distinction, Inc. Nashville Capital City Chapter presented more than thirty high school young men from schools across the Nashville area to Beautillion 2012.Â The Beautillion serves as a means to build self esteem, confidence and character to help develop and discover the potential and talents of each young man in a positive manner. It provides role models, enrichment activities and encouragement for young men grades 9thâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;12th. The young men are challenged to do their very best in school and excel in all areas of life.

M O C H A M A R K E T 55

NBCC Holiday Mixer T

he 2nd Annual Holiday Mixer sponsored by the Nashville Black Chamber of Commerce, with partnerships from the National Association of Black Journalist; National Association of Black Accountants, Napier-Looby Bar Association and the Urban League of Middle TN Young Professionals, was held on Friday, December 14, 2012 at Events. The mixer allows all participating organizations to increase their networks and expand their member benefits and opportunities. Over 100 people were in attendance. PHOTOGRAPHY: WALTER JONES (RHINO PIC)

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Napier-Looby Law Association members

Chris Bond, Lady Shaunte, and Jon Burton

Darius Montgomery, Urban League YP President

Judge Keta Barnes and J. Steven Barnes

M O C H A M A R K E T 57

N B CC C H R I S T M A S PA R T Y

Nashville Black Chamber Board members

Nashville Association of Black Journalists

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N B CC C H R I S T M A S PA R T Y

Urban League YP members

Nashville Association of Black Accountants

M O C H A M A R K E T 59

CEO's On Diversity John Morgan, Chancellor, TN Board of Regents; Eduardo Minardi, CEO, Bridgestone Americas; Jacky Akbari, MTDF Board Chair; Vicki Yates, Anchor, WTVF-5; Don Abel, Jr., President & CEO, Fifth Third Bank of TN; Darrell S. Freeman, Founder & Executive Chairman, Zycron

he Middle Tennessee Diversity Forum (MTDF) presented the 2012 “CEO Conversation on Diversity” at the Doubletree Hotel Downtown. The event gave local CEO’s, executives and other professional leadership the opportunity to discuss a variety of topics relative to workforce diversity. The Diversity forum events are designed to allow local senior leadership in larger organizations a means to benchmark their company’s internal diversity programs. PHOTOGRAPHY: CJ WELLS PHOTOGRAPHY

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Alison Regg, Josh Livingston, Tammy Jonston

Samuel King and Herman Strickland

Tina Surface and Danielle Spence

Dianth McLeod, Michelle Morgan and Saundra Robinson

M O C H A M A R K E T 61

CEO'S ON DIVERSITY

Joyce Searcy and Thomas Kinnard

Holly Groves, Candace Hines, Felicia Johnson

Ivan Jones and Sidney McPhee

Jill Lindsey and Denise Redman

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CEO'S ON DIVERSITY

Sonya Mansfield Ross and Tierney Bates

Cathy Bender-Jackson, Joyce Searcy, Rhonda Dunn

Joe Saig and Ben Altom

Lynn Ryle and Fran Jones

M O C H A M A R K E T 63

by Genma

R E S TA U RANT SPOT L IGHT

Soul Food That Warms Your Heart HARP E R ' S R ES TA U R A N T NASH VIL L E , T N by DR. CARMEN APRIL

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arper’s Restaurant in Nashville, TN is gives discounts to students and offers complimentary the very definition of a southern soul dinner on Sundays to local pastors and their wives. He food cafeteria. It is a family owned and has been supporting little league baseball and football for operated restaurant that serves food comforting many years. He has pictures of numerous local athletes enough to make you feel like you are sitting in on the walls of the restaurant. grandma’s kitchen. The “Wall of Fame” is often a topic of conversation Mr. Paul Harper has operated his Jefferson in Harper’s, especially for first time visitors. When the Street restaurant, Harper’s, seven days a week for the restaurant first opened, Mr. Harper noticed that the past 10 years. After many years of success owning entrance wall was getting dirty from fingerprints. A an Exxon service station business, he opened up a former TSU basketball player suggested that he create a small deli, also called Harper’s, near 28th Avenue wall of fame. That student athlete provided the pictures and Centennial Boulevard. Because of the deli’s that Mr. Harper had framed down the street at Wood close proximity to Tennessee State University, Fisk Cuts. From then on, the pictures have been on the walls University, and Meharry of Harper’s. Medical College, his deli Any time you dine there, became popular among you can sense the love that Mr. college students. Harper’s Harper has for his restaurant and deli was open 24 hours per the community. He works hard, day, and college students but says he could never run the loved it because they could restaurant alone. He and his wife, buy his great fried chicken Tennessee Senator Thelma Harper, late at night when other have been married for 55 years. She restaurants were closed. can often be seen at the restaurant He eventually expanded with him. He says the secret to their the restaurant to serving long marriage lies in the fact that, “I Paul Harper beside the Wall of Fame breakfast, lunch, and dinner. have my say, but she has her way!” He enjoys supporting college students and calls them He is proud of his 2 children, Linda Harper-Foster, an his “grandchildren.” Over the years, Mr. Harper engineer in Atlanta, and Dylan Harper, who passed away has even purchased plane and bus tickets for some some years ago. college students who have had financial difficulty From the array of chicken, fish, pork chops, fresh getting home for the holidays. He chuckles when vegetables, cornbread, and rolls to the delectable recounting the story of a former basketball player at assortment of cakes, pies and cobblers, you can be Fisk University who was suspended for two games assured that you will get a home cooked meal every time because he was caught going into the girls’ dormitory you visit Harper’s. My favorite is the golden -brown fried for a “book.” This student athlete begged Mr. Harper catfish, savory turnip greens, creamy mac-n-cheese, to talk to the basketball coach on his behalf, but Mr. and delicious peach cobbler. Washing it all down with Harper told him, “Son, I can’t help you this time. You a tall glass of sweet tea seals the deal! Harper’s is open are going to have to sit this one out!” It’s this type of for breakfast, lunch, and dinner seven days a week. The personal interaction that keeps people coming into next time you are craving southern soul food goodness, Harper’s Restaurant daily. He chooses to operate the head over to Harper’s Restaurant at 2610 Jefferson St. restaurant seven days per week because of a lesson he Nashville, TN or call in your order at 615-329-1909. Tell learned from Exxon years ago, which is to “be open him I sent you! when your customers come.” Mr. Harper takes an active role in the restaurant. He and can be found working the cash register, making sure the food is always fresh, and talking with the patrons at the tables. He doesn’t do much Dr. Carmen April is a Nashville Podiatrist, Foodie, cooking, but he says he “knows when it’s cooked and Founder/Creative Director of Dinner With Nerds, LLC. right!” He doesn’t allow food to be put out on the You can find the Dinner With Nerds Food Blog online www.DinnerWithNerds.com. cafeteria line that is not up to his high standards. He M O C H A M A R K E T 65

THROUGH MAY 19, 2013 -------------- Lynn and Ken Melkus, Presenting Sponsors --------------

Metropolitan Nashville Arts Commission

Gerard Ter Borch (Dutch, 1617â&#x20AC;&#x201C;1681). Lady at Her Toilette (detail), ca. 1660. Oil on canvas, 30 x 23 1/2 in. Detroit Institute of Arts, Founders Society Purchase, Eleanor Clay Ford Fund, General Membership Fund, Endowment Income Fund and Special Activities Fund, 65.10

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