Recognizing Young Successful Executives & Entrepreneurs
www.RYSEMagazine.com www.RYSEMagazine.com
September/October September/October 2011 2011 $3.95 US US $3.95
SpotLighting
25 Young Attorneys oN the RYSE HOW TO SECURE Capital for Your Business
Full-Time Employee, Part-Time Entrepreneur
Thinking Beyond the Cubicle Earnest DeLoach Jr. of Young DeLoach Law
Who we are
YBE
YOUNG BUSINESS E XECUTIVES
The readers of RYSE Magazine are Young Business Executives (YBE). YBEs are well-educated, ambitious go-getters, who strive to be the best in both their personal and professional lives. They excel at climbing the ladder in the corporate world, or at navigating unchartered paths as innovative and creative entrepreneurs. YBEs are confident, cultured and know where they are going. They are community activists who promote building wealth through social change. They are not afraid to express their opinions, but are always open to new ideas. Always keeping up with the current trends, YBEs earn a moderate to high disposable income and can be extravagant when it comes to enjoying the finer things in life. A sufficient amount of YBEs income is spent on maintaining their homes with trendy furnishings, accessories, clothing, activities and events with those closest to them. YBEs like to retain a sense of individuality within their groups, while understanding that true power lies in unity and collectivism. They live by mottos such as Quality rather than quantity and Each one, must reach one. Well-travelled, YBEs are likely to try exotic destinations, while not forgetting their normal native destinations. They work smart, but play hard, making the transition appear seamless and effortless. Young Business Executives stand at the crossroads of change as a generation of ambitious, conscientious leaders and powerful voices within the communities they live.
Join the movement, get connected
Facebook.com/rysemagazine Rosemonde Cely of Atlantic Justice Law Group
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Contents SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2011
F EAT U RE S
60 THE VOICE OF THE CITY
How Hard Work Can Lead to Opportunity When You Least Expect It. By Ashley Cisneros
56 Big Dreams Fulfilled
Orlando Native Kevin Carr Reflects on NBA Career. By Ashley Cisneros
64 Taking Center Stage
How Stages Plus Supplied an Unknown Demand in the Orlando Entertainment Industry. By Didi Henry
41 Power Players
From seasoned veterans to fast rising stars, RYSE Magazine spotlights 25 of Central Florida’s Attorneys and Firms on the RYSE.
Andre Young of Young DeLoach PLLC, photographed by Nancy Jo Brown/106foto
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C O N TR IB U T O R S Prior to serving as dean at Kaplan University, Thomas Boyd was the associate dean for academic programs at the College of Business and Economics at California State University, Fullerton, (CSUF). He has also served as a professor of marketing and a member of the board of governors of the University Foundation.
Didi Henry is a graduate of the Henry W. Grady College of Journalism and Mass Communication at the University of Georgia and the creator of “The Bougie Budgetista” lifestyle blog.
LaVon Bracy holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Theater Arts with a concentration in Acting from Howard University and a Juris Doctor from Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University, College of Law. She is a barred attorney and currently works as Community Project Coordinator for Hines, the development manager of the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts.
Marianne Ilunga holds a degree in Fashion Merchandising and Retailing and is the president of Stylissima Fashion Consulting. She is an expert in personal shopping, wardrobe styling and providing closet makeovers as she travels all over the nation to dress people and to provide her personal clients with unique clothing assortment.
Coach Davis is the CEO/Founder of 3-D Consulting and has over 20 years of experience in the field of coaching and athletics. His professional career includes playing for the Houston Oilers, serving as a player advisor for the Denver Nuggets of the NBA, and being named the Head Coach of three National High School All-Star Basketball games. He is currently the Director of Boys Basketball and Head Varsity Basketball Coach at Trinity Prep in Winter Park.
Alicia Mitchell is a storyteller. With a background and passion for broadcast journalism and public relations, “Lish” founded Mobile Mogul PR in 2010 where’s she able to live and flourish in the field she loves.
Cassie Doria is a freelance writer and marketing professional in Orlando. She is pursuing a Master’s degree in Strategic Public Relations at The George Washington University.
Denise Y. Mose, Ph.D is the owner/creator of Simply D Perfume and Beauty Skin Care Line. She is also the host of Urban America Today (www.myjbnonline.net). She is an authority on education, business, beauty/fashion, career coaching and etiquette. Her new book, The Guilt-Free Guide To Fashion, will be released summer 2011! You may visit her online at www.dymbeauty.com and www.danielformen.net.
Rogue Gallart is the President of the Central Florida Disability Chamber and an strong advocate for Central Florida’s small business community.
Susan Reddick is the owner of E & R One Stop, a document preparation company based out of Orlando, Fla.
Misha N. Granado, MPH, MS is the Executive Director of Love Grows, a boutique consulting group offering interactive workshops, mentorship, motivational speaking, books and relationship tips and tools to empower, strengthen and honor all relationship dynamics. To learn more please visit www.thelovewithinexperience.com.
Dr. Tricia Y. Travis is the Chief Executive Officer of Celebrity Educator Inc. and holds a doctorate degree of Education. She is a graduated of the University of Central Florida and Nova Southeastern University, majoring in elementary education, educational leadership and organizational leadership with a specialization in human resource development.
Orlando native, Eric G. Green, designer/creator of Eric Green Fine Jewelry, an exceptional eclectic line that is internationally recognized and was featured in New York Times. Green is part owner of E & G Enterprise, Property Management Company and choreographer/coordinator for fashion shows. For more information please visit www.ericggreen.com.
Charles Wright is the Managing Principal of Freeman Commercial Lending (www.freemancommerciallending.com ), a nationally recognized leader in commercial finance, offering a broad array of financial products for small, medium, and large size businesses.
Jamila Hartsfield is a licensed hairstylist and makeup artist located in the Tampa, Fla. A graduate of the University of South Florida, she has years of experience in the beauty industry and has worked with a significant number of models and actresses over the years.
Devin Heflin is a feature writer and editor for the Orlando Times Newspaper. He is also the owner of Devin’s Ink Creative Services, a freelancing company that specializes in web articles, copywriting, blogging and marketing. For more information, contact him devin.heflin@gmail.com
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For a full bio on each contributing writer, please visit RYSEMagazine.com
DE P ARTMENT S SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2011
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66
26
32 68
36 7 A Word from the Publisher 11 Ms. Know it All
Book Club 24 Ink That Will Make You Think
Style 12 The Power of Red Lipstick Never thought you could wear a red lip? Now you can! 14 Creating a Bold Statement Through Fashion
Artist spotlight 25 Vicky Clark
Your Attire Can Make Or Break You 16 Fall Into Fashion The Coolest Looks for Women IN THE NEWS 18 RYSE Has Risen Over 600 of Central Florida’s Entrepreneurs, Executives, and Community Leaders Came out to Celebrate the Launch of RYSE Magazine Arts and Entertainment 22 Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts 23 Mid-Century Photo Exhibit Opens at Crealde School of Art
wine & dine 26 Islandville Caribbean and Soul Food Restaurant 28 Eat Your Way To Better Health The “Poor Chef” Charles Mattocks Is On A Mission to Beat Diabetes Sports & Recreation 30 How to Obtain and Retain a College Athletic Scholarship Mind, body and soul 32 Brotherhood of a Nation Dr. Ron Fulmore Helps Families in Nairobi, Kenya LIFESTYLE 34 Striving to live to a Healthy 100 How Florida Hospital’s Healthy 100 Kids program incorporates family values, tailored programs, and small steps to influence a generation of change
LOVE & HAPPINESS 36 External vs. Internal It all begins with you: The relationship you have with yourself determines the relationship you have with others EMPOWERMENT 38 How to Become an Entrepreneur MONEY TALKS 58 Securing Capital for Your Business POLITICAL POWER 62 Be a Leader, Get Involved Let Your Vote Be Your Voice BUSINESS SENSE 66 Full-Time Employee, Part-Time Entrepreneur Thinking Beyond the Cubicle IT TAKES A VILLAGE 68 Back to School with Pizzazz! Getting Students Excited About Education 70 Central Florida Youth who are making a difference in our community
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Recognizing Young Successful Executives & Entrepreneurs www.rysemagazine.com SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2011 Publisher/Editor in Chief J. Jackson Sr. Managing Editor Ashley Cisneros Associate Editors Devin Heflin Tatianna Aker Didi Henry
Visit the online digital edition of RYSE Magazine. In addition to online only extras, you can add bookmarks and notes to features, send stories to friends and even click on links that interest you while reading.
Creative and Art Director StudioJones Graphic Design Contributing Photographers Nancy Jo Brown, 106FOTO Ted Hollins, Ted Hollins Photography Contributing Writers Ashley Cisneros Dr. Denise Y. Mose Yolanda Baruch Jaconia Toyloy
The online edition works on iPhones and iPads, so take it with you on the go.
Director of Marketing / Sales Jaconia Toyloy
Connect
Director of Special Promotions Natalie Hawthorne
RYSE Magazine ™ is published bi-monthly by The Words of Action Publishing, Inc.
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A Word from the Publisher
The Saga Continues…
O
Once again, we have made it. Many
people said it couldn’t be done, but we did it. Another issue of RYSE celebrating the successes of young business executives throughout Central Florida. Over the weeks since we launched our first issue, I have often been asked, “Do you think there is a need? Do you think people will support it?” My answer is simple — When has there not been a need to showcase individuals who are excelling in their careers, whether it be in a corporate environment or in their entrepreneurial pursuit? When has there not been a need to celebrate the achievements of those determined to RYSE to the top? Every day, we are bombarded with news of companies failing, high unemployment numbers and stories of individuals struggling to make ends meet. What you seldom hear are stories of the people who are prospering in their careers despite what is going on economically all around us. RYSE Magazine brings you their stories, because whether we are in a strong economy or a weak one, there is one thing that is always needed – INSPIRATION! In this issue, we spotlight 25 of Central Florida’s Top Attorneys and Firms on the RYSE. The list ranges from individuals who are well established to those who are fast rising stars. We congratulate those who made the list and look forward to expanding it next year. As you read through the following pages, I truly hope you will be educated, motivated, and inspired to RYSE to the top in your own career. And when you get there, who knows, you just might find yourself in the pages of RYSE Magazine.
“Action” J. Jackson Sr. “Action” J. Jackson Sr. Publisher/Editor in Chief RYSE Magazine
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RYSE (Rise): [rahyz] – noun; to elevate or increase in rank, status, position, reputation, fortune, influence, or power. Go to RYSEMagazine.com to subscribe today!
Recognizing Young Successful Executives & Entrepreneurs www.rysemagazine.com
FOR OUR READERS TO SUBSCRIBE Subscriptions to RYSE Magazine are free and only require you to pay for postage to your home or office. RYSE Magazine is printed bi-monthly by Words of Action, Inc. To subscribe, visit RYSEMagazine.com LETTERS TO THE EDITOR RYSE Magazine wants to hear from you. Letters to the editor should be addressed to: RYSE Magazine 2100 Lee Rd. Suite D Winter Park, FL. 32789 Attn: J. Jackson Sr. Your letters to the editor can also be sent online by visiting RYSE Magazine To be considered for publication, letters must include the name, address, and phone number of the sender. Because of limited space, letters should not be unduly long. Letters may be edited to meet space, clarity and/or style requirements. TO ADVERTISE If you would like information about how to advertise your business, products or services in RYSE Magazine, please call our office at (407) 494-1069, or email us at advertise@rysemag.com
FOR MORE INFORMATION For more information on additional services, please visit us online at RYSEMagazine.com 8 RY SE MAGAZINE | S E P TE M BE R/ O CTO BE R 2011
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Ms.
Know It All
Dear Ms. Know It All, I’m a guy who was laid off from his professional good paying job. I am currently working, but don’t make the kind of money I use to. As a result, I feel like my wife doesn’t respect me anymore, because I can’t do the things I used to be able to do for her. I feel like I want to leave. What should I do? Signed, Frustrated Husband Dear Frustrated Husband, This question is a tough one and has to be answered in two-fold. First, you might be having some false feelings about how your wife is treating you because of your loss of income. Could it be that your wife hasn’t changed at all but the inner you is having problems with your manhood? Your manhood should not be based on your money. You said that you no longer have the good paying professional job. Well, part of being a man means that you have to do whatever it takes to bring home the bacon. Some bacon is better than no bacon, so if your new job is not quite enough, then maybe you should work two jobs. When you put those two jobs together they still add
up to, “I’m providing for my family.” Now the other part of this answer has to actually do with your wife. You should always use care when choosing a partner. Marriage is the biggest business deal you will ever put together. If you were going into business with someone, you would be wise to make sure that person is financially stable, is employed and can carry the load just in case you have a bad month. In other words it is a PARTNERSHIP. Your spouse should also have those same qualities. Hopefully you have picked a spouse/partner that is willing to step up and do a little more to carry the load now that times are hard. In closing, I would advise you to check yourself before you check out
of your marriage. You might just be your biggest problem. If you are having these feelings, I hope your wife and marriage mean enough that you would sit down and talk things out. Maybe you can make it better. Now remember that marriage is still your biggest business deal. If you were closing a business you would still need an exit plan and a time frame for shutting the business down. If you decide to leave the marriage, then have the courtesy to talk about how the two of you will divide things up so nobody gets left holding the bag. Good luck and hopefully you won’t choose the latter. Signed, Ms. Know It All
Have a question for Ms. Know it All? Send them to questions@rysemag.com. Your question maybe selected for our next issue of RYSE Magazine. SEPT EM B ER / O C T O B ER 2 0 1 1 | WWW. RY SE M AG AZ I N E.C OM 1 1
IN S TYL E
Unleash the Power of Red Lipstick
R
Never thought you could wear a red lip? Now you can! BY Jamila Hartsfield
What woman does not want to wear a red lip? It is daring, extremely glamorous, and just all around stunning! What better way to let the world know that you are fabulous? In 2011 red lips are hotter than ever, and they are here to stay for a few seasons. A nice, full red lip used to been seen as a “no-no” for most women, but that is no longer the case. Now woman in all career fields are wearing red lips. Many would like to wear red lipstick, but assume they can’t. So for those of you that feel you can’t, allow me to tell you how to wear and create the perfect red lip. Anyone can pull off a red lip, but the shade of red varies from person to person. First, let’s cover one BIG red lip mistake. Rule number one: You must always go light on the eye makeup and blush; you do not want to look like a clown. I am sure we have all seen someone who went all out on the eye makeup, blush and then put on a red lip. They looked like they were ready to show up at a kid’s party and blow up balloons! Go light on the eyes, skip the eyeliner and use nice, thick mascara. Or you can skip the shadow and just use liner (cat eyes go great with red lips) and mascara. Apply your powder, and very softly apply your blush.
The key to your perfect shade of red lies in the color of your skin. The paler your skin, the brighter your lips will appear. You can actually go brighter if you have pale skin. How to pick the right color: If your complexion is darker, you’ll look great is a plum shades. Fair-skinned women with yellow tones look better in warmer reds. My favorite shade is Ruby Woo (bright red), but I like for my lips to pop! If you are not sure what shade will look good on you, the best thing to do is to consult a makeup artist so that you can find your perfect shade. With that being said, very few makeup artists stick to one shade of red. You can blend colors to get your perfect shade. If you have a shade of red that you feel is too bright for you or too dark, don’t get rid of it. Try to blend it with another shade and you may just create the perfect color combination for yourself.
When applying your red lipstick, first apply a lip scrub. Flaky skin on the lips can ruin this look, so exfoliate the lips first. Then, apply a lip primer. This will also moisturize the lips. Sometimes red lipstick bleeds, so apply liner to lips. Pay special attention to the dip on the top lip; that is sexy. Lastly, apply your lipstick. After you have applied your lipstick, blot the lips on a tissue. Then, apply another thin coat. This will ensure that the lipstick lasts longer. Once you have your perfect shade and are wearing your fabulous red lipstick, beware of the stain on your teeth. Lick your teeth often to ensure that you do not have lipstick on them. Go ahead and be bold, and fabulous!
Jamila Hartsfield is a licensed hairstylist and makeup artist located in the Tampa, Fla. A graduate of the University of South Florida, she has years of experience in the beauty industry and has worked with a significant number of models and actresses over the years. 12 RYSE MAGAZINE | S E P TE M BE R/ O CTO BE R 201 1
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Red lipstick is a universal classic.
IN S TYL E
Creating a Bold Statement Through Fashion
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Your Attire Can Make Or Break You The wardrobe we reveal
to the world will always speak for us if we want it to or not. Fashion gives us the opportunity to say who we are, what we want, and show how bold we can be. I’m sure we all have walked down the street or sat in the mall looking at people as they walk by wondering, “Why in the world did they wear that?” or asking ourselves, “Where can I find that?” The opinion of others will always be concluded from your attire and the attitude you embody. Fashion provides us the opportunity to speak and express the personality within us as individuals. The art of speaking without a spoken word is one quality which will be remembered by everyone. As humans, we are visual beings and once something has been stimulated by the eye, we receive a memory caption to store and build a conclusion in our minds. No matter the age, size or cultural background we all want to feel a since of happiness in our
everyday lives. Having the perfect color combination, wearing a tailored blazer, sporting the best pair of shoes in your wardrobe, all of these lead to a place of confidence within yourself. Clothes are the most powerful nonverbal tools of communication. Why should they not be an effective force in one’s overall business strategy?
5 Guidelines for Business Appropriate Dress: 1. Cleanliness – Looking the part and being well-groomed will always have a positive reaction in the board room, out in the field, or even at a casual event. 2. When in doubt as to the correct attire for a specific business meeting, opt for a suit. Another option would be to bring an extra shirt, one with a pattern or stripes and another with no patterns at all. This will allow you to have the option to go for a clean, classic look with the solid shirt or a trendy casual look with a pattern.
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3. If unsure about an occasion’s level or formality, overdressing is the safer bet. The worst feeling is going to an event and feeling like you missed the memo about the attire. You can always make a great statement when you rise above the occasion. However falling below it can damage your reputation and effectiveness. 4. Dress in line with your superiors, and never more casually than your subordinates. Never dress so casual that where you no longer look like someone who can become an authority figure. 5. Make sure casual characteristics of clothes are the same as formal attire. Dressing casual does not give you the license to look like a slob. Be bold in your choices and always look the part and never miss a beat in your direction of success. Opportunity has no specific area of choice so you must always prepare and be ready for the call.
ISTOCKPHOTO.COM
By: Eric Green
IN S TYL E
Fall Into Fashion The Coolest Looks for Women
By Marianne Ilunga, Owner of Stylissima Fashion Consulting This Fall/Winter season is all about dressing up and being chic. Dresses and skirt suits are very much in fashion and so are pant suits. Menswear has a strong influence this Fall/Winter so there’s a lot of plaid and pinstripe with a feminine flair. The “It” colors this season are wine red, purple and plum. Lames or metallics exude opulence and glamour, so they are also very present this year. You will also notice the comeback of the fedora hats, gloves, and furs to complete the “chic” trend. To give you a clear idea of you should have in your closet to get the “look” here are my top 10 favorites: The fur vest: Whether you prefer real fur or faux fur, fur is a must-have this season. The versatility of a vest allows you to dress up an outfit and keep you fashionably warm. The metallic pants: Metallic fabrics are a huge trend. Wear it in a dress,
top, skirt or in a pair of cute ankle pants and instantly change your evening wardrobe. The plaid jacket: Menswear has a big influence in this Fall/
Winter season. Wear a boyfriend blazer in plaid with a pencil skirt or a pair of jeans for a “preppy chic” look. The pump: There’s nothing sexier than a pair of pumps. Round toe or pointy toe, this season wear your pumps with everything to give your outfit a feminine look. The burgundy handbag: Burgundy is this season “it” color. To revamp your fall wardrobe, carry your favorite handbag in burgundy to add a touch of color to all your outfits. The pencil skirt: For a lady chic look wear a pencil skirt paired with a silk blouse. The pencil skirt in tweed, plaid or even a solid color will easily take you from a “business chic” outfit to an “after five” attire. The color-block dress: Color blocking is still in fashion this Fall/Winter. Wear it in a long-sleeved shift dress with boots or pumps for a perfect classy look! The tie-neck silk chiffon blouse: Blouses are the epidemic of the “lady like” look. Worn with pencil skirts or wide leg pants this season’s blouse is very versatile. The hat: Hats are fun to wear especially during the
The cape: The return of the cape is a major hit
amongst fashionistas. Think outside the box and add a cape to your wardrobe for an instant classic look.
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Fall/winter season. Whether it’s a fedora or a floppy hat this year hats pulls a whole outfit together and adds certain flair!
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IN TH E NE W S
Ryse Has Risen
A
“Action” J. Jackson is a bit of anomaly
where success is concerned, but most entrepreneurs usually are when they have tenacity and vision. In addition, with an endearing moniker as “Action,” success is not surprising, but certain. Jackson was first introduced to the spirit of entrepreneurship when he was a salesman and arrived to the door of one of his clients. He saw that the man was making a living from the comfort of home and Jackson inquired about the man’s occupation. When the client responded that he designed t-shirts and shipped them to his customers, a light bulb went off in Jackson’s head. From that moment, he decided that he too would travel the same road of self-employment.
One of Jackson’s first business ventures was a real estate company called Platinum Property Group of Central Florida. With the success of this business endeavor, Jackson later branched off into the health and beauty industry opening a hair salon called Pure Platinum Studio. Through his keen business acumen, he was able to grow the salon into one of the largest salons in Central Florida. He later ventured into Internet marketing. Soon the spirit of entrepreneurship came beckoning again like a seducing siren. After much consideration and prayer, he came to the realization that he wanted to do a publication that recognized the young profesContinued on page 20
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NANCY JO brown/106FOTO
Over 600 of Central Florida’s Entrepreneurs, Executives, and Community Leaders Came out to Celebrate the Launch of RYSE Magazine By Yolanda Baruch
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IN TH E NE W S
sionals of Central Florida. He called it Recognizing Young Successful Executives & Entrepreneurs, RYSE Magazine. Within a short matter of time, he started to share his vision with colleagues and professional associates. The response was overwhelming. Jackson was welcomed with support and encouragement, so he took a leap of faith and began assembling his team of writers, photographers, graphic designers, and marketers. On Saturday, July 16, 2011, Jackson’s vision came into fruition, when he unveiled his inaugural businesscentered issue of RYSE Magazine at the North Club Lounge in the Amway Center. The interest and excitement of the RYSE Magazine launch quickly spread throughout Central Florida, and Jackson was contacted by various media outlets like the Orlando Sentinel which ran a full article feature on him that appeared on the newspaper’s front-page, and mentioned the venture twice in the business column. Additionally, Jackson was invited to appear on Fox 35’s morning show. The launch was hosted by Star 94.5 Radio personality Monica May and boasted an attendance of 600 plus attendees which included leaders in the areas of business, the community, plus elected officials. One of the event supporters was the Orlando Magic, which sent players Nick Anderson and Bo Outlaw as representatives to share in
the unveiling. The premier issue’s cover was graced by the Orlando Magic’s own Lucas Boyce, Director of Community Relations, Multicultural Insights, and Government Affairs for the Orlando Magic. Boyce was also present at the celebration sharing photos with admirers and signing publication pages that featured his story. Jackson had very specific intentions for the new publication. “I wanted to create a quality platform to recognize the numerous young outliers who are excelling in our community. Many times whose contributions are often overlooked and unseen,” Jackson says.
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RYSE Magazine is dedicated toward celebrating the successes and achievements of all young business executives and entrepreneurs in the state of Florida with goal of attracting national exposure. Jackson is determined for the bimonthly publication to be packed with articles that focus on personal and professional development. “The overwhelming response that we have received after the launch just proves that there was a void in the market not being filled. We have received calls from people all over the state requesting a copy of the magazine and thanking us for the platform we are providing for young business executives,” Jackson says. “It just proves that this is more than a magazine, but a movement and that RYSE is truly on the rise.” Visit www.rysemagazine.com to view the digital edition of the premiere issue, order an annual subscription and get information on upcoming sponsored events.
NANCY JO brown/106FOTO
Continued from page 18
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A R TS & E N T E R TA I N M E N T
1
Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts
I
2 1. This amplified theater, to be named by Walt Disney World Co., is the largest performance space. Inspired by classic outdoor theaters, the blue side walls and ceiling simulate an evening sky. The major surfaces in the room are adorned with cherry wood and woven copper. The design also references some of the most successful theaters by offering exceptional sightlines with tiered seating close to the stage.
An Exciting Arts Venue for the Entire Community By LaVon P. Bracy, Esq. It is official. The state-
of-the-art Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts is on its way. The ground has been broken, the land has been cleared and in 2014, a premier destination for world-class culture, entertainment and arts education will be built in the heart of downtown Orlando. The Center will feature two grand performance theaters, a community theater, an outdoor performance plaza and an arts education facility. If you are not excited about this, you should be! Let me tell you why: The Center will put Central Florida on the map. This venue will transform the region from a vacation destination to an artistic mecca. I have the opportunity to serve as a community liaison for Hines, an integral part of the owner’s representative team for the Center. An element of my job is to educate the community and raise awareness about this dynamic project, its mission and its impact. I am a 32-year-old, African American licensed attorney with a performing arts background. When I returned to Orlando after matriculating from Howard University in Washington D.C., I quickly
3 realized that my hometown, the fair City Beautiful was missing something. Something beautiful. Something big. We were missing an epicenter for culture and creativity. I also learned, during my trek around the city speaking to community groups and organizations, that I was not alone in recognizing this void, especially within my age group. Often, the 25-45 minority age group is counted out as being avid arts supporters. However, the creation of this Center will give my age group something to be excited about. This project gives them the opportunity to not only donate or volunteer, but to be a part of a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity from the ground-up. The key to the Center’s success with my generation is programming. To borrow a phrase: “If you build it - and tailor the programming to be inclusive of all age groups and cultures – THEY WILL COME.” Another exciting part of this project is that the leaders and board of directors are determined, through its
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4 mission, to be a destination that celebrates the best and most diverse performing artists locally, nationally and internationally. This promises to be a place where we will enjoy Bach, Beethoven, B.B. King and Beyonce. This place will be a microcosm of life, from tuxedos to t-shirts; stilettos to sneakers. The Dr. Phillips Center will be an institution that feeds the needs of all people starving for culture, arts, arts education and entertainment. So, prepare yourself now, fasten your seatbelts, and get ready to be a participant in the most exciting artistic endeavor that has ever hit Central Florida. In 2014, downtown Orlando, across the street from City Hall, creativity, originality and ingenuity will converge. For more information, visit www.drphillipscenter.org.
2. The exterior of the Center is a crowning architectural statement for Orlando. The mission of the Center drove the design creating a warm and inviting destination where everyone walks through one front door; an environment encouraging participation and new experiences. The building says “look at me, but come inside.” 3. The multi-form theater is an intimate and warm room that will transform its shape and acoustics to ideally accommodate symphony, opera and ballet. The flexibility of the stage is achieved with a moving shell and towers that can be arranged to create rooms ideally shaped for each art form. 4. The performance plaza will be a true gathering place for the community energized by a mix of commercial and retail amenities. Water features, shady trees, seating and open areas will be ideal for all types of activities from a workday lunch to a 3,000 person festival.
One of the many historical photographs from the Mid-Century exhibit now showing at the Crealde School of Art.
Revealing The History And Strength Of African American Communities
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Mid-Century Photo Exhibit Opens at Crealde School of Art By Cassie Doria, Freelance Writer The Crealde School of
Art located in Winter Park, Florida was established in 1975 as a community based non-profit arts organization, and in 2007 in partnership with the City of Winter Park the Crealde’s second campus, Hannibal Square Heritage Center opened. If you have not had an opportunity to visit the Crealde School of Art up until now, you will be delighted to know that all exhibitions and lectures are free and open to the public. In addition, this Fall may be the perfect time to visit Crealde since the organization will be showcasing an original, thought provoking and educational exhibit to the Central Florida community. “The exhibit originates out of the mission of Hannibal Square Center, where we celebrate the contributions of African Americans,” said Peter Schreyer, Crealde Executive Director and documentary photographer.
There is a cultural depth to Hannibal Square Heritage Center which honors the past, present, and future contributions of Winter Park’s historic African American community. Therefore, it is only becoming of the gallery to host an exhibition that explores the strength of three African-American communities in the 1940’s and 50’s in Florida prior to desegregation, urban renewal and the Civil Rights era. The featured exhibit, “Mid-Century: A Photographic View of Three African-American Communities in Florida” are on display from September 9 through December 30, 2011. Opening festivities were held on Friday September 9th with an educational panel, followed by a reception and live jazz performance by the Chuck Archard Trio, featuring music from the 1940s and 1950s. The panel consisted of presentations from the
Ritz Theatre and Museum, a Professor of History and African-American Studies at Daytona State College, the Southeast Museum of Photography, and the Heritage Center Manager and Chief Historian. The two-venue exhibit are held in the Jenkins Gallery at Crealde’s main campus, as well as in the Hannibal Square Heritage Center. The underlying purpose of the
exhibit is to share the history of cultural strength in African American communities during the decades of the 40’s and 50’s through a series of sleek photographic and oral text pieces. Mid-Century will include Ellie Lee Weems’ images of Jacksonville’s LaVilla community, which was once referred to as the ‘Harlem of the South’ as well as Gordon Parks’ photographs of Daytona Beach’s Midway neighborhood and the family photographs of Winter Parks’ Hannibal Square community. When describing the value of Mid-Century, Peter Schreyer shared that “through the photography displayed in this specific exhibit attendees will be able to see a different time of life through the eyes of those in the community, as well as understand the cultural strength of the communities that were built against all of the odds that were put against them.” The Crealde School of Art is able to provide the Mid-Century exhibit to the general public thanks to the Southeast Museum of Photography in Daytona and The Ritz Theatre and Museum in Jacksonville. For additional information on Crealde School of Art or the Mid-Century exhibit, please visit www.cre alde.org.
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BOOK CLUB
Ink That Will Make You Think Will Work for Shoes: The Business Behind Red Carpet Product Placement Susan J. Ashbrook Will Work for Shoes: The Business Behind Red Carpet Product Placement by celebrity marketing pioneer Susan Ashbrook, offers a wealth of helpful strategies that companies can use to capitalize on the consumer influence of celebrities. Though focused on fashion, Ashbrook’s advice is applicable to almost any type of product, and she makes a brilliant case for why placing product with celebrities can increase sales more successfully and economically than traditional advertising. Price: $22.95 Pages: 224 www.SusanJAshbrook.com
How to Turn Your Talent into a Business Janet Green
Price: $18.95 Pages: 142 www.janetbusiness.com
Are you an author who would like your book featured in our Book Club? Visit RYSEMagazine.com to submit the required information. Due to space limitations, not all submissions will be selected. 24 RYSE MAGAZINE | S E P TE M BE R/ O CTO BE R 201 1
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Green, once a director of human resources for a large corporation, began volunteering as the Director of the Entrepreneur Ministry at New Destiny Christian Center, Apopka, Fla. God blessed her ministry as she created materials to teach individuals how to launch their own businesses. Janet has now turned those materials into a book and a workbook to develop new CEOs’ spiritual, physical, and business skills. Topics include Personal development for becoming a successful business owner, four foundations that will set you up for a successful business, connecting with positive people and disconnecting from negative ones, writing a business plan and more.
Artist
Spotlight The time to support our local talent is not after they have made it to the top of the ladder of success. It is while they are working hard to pull themselves up the rungs when they need our support the most.
Vicky Clark Vicky Clark is an Inspirational Spoken Word Artist, a Poetry Workshop Facilitator, a Radio Personality, a Business Communication Workshop Facilitator, and a Motivational/Inspirational Speaker. Currently residing in Orlando Fla., Clark has earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Interpersonal/Organizational Communications with a minor and certification in Non-Profit Organization Management. She’s originally from Campbellton, Fla., a quaint town in the Northwest Panhandle area. Much time was spent with the Upward Bound Program, where she received communal recognitions as both an employee and volunteer. Clark has a heart for young people. She sees their value and the importance of making a positive impact on their lives. Clark is the Founder/CEO of 1 Message L.L.C., which is purposed to inspire, educate, and motivate individuals
to positive exercise the power of voice, while spreading the gospel of Jesus Christ. Having a pure passion for love, life, and seeing people prosper, inspires Clark to strive for her dreams and goals. Writing poetry has been a part of Clark’s life for over ten years and she has been ministering through Spoken Word for over five years. On many occasions, she travels to share her Spoken Word and facilitate various workshops. She’s shared platforms with artists such as Kim Burrell, Esperanza Freeze, and Noel Rosa. She has been featured in various plays, one including “Through Bathsheba Eyes” a play written and produced by Jeaneen Turner. Life experiences and the message of freedom are ignited as she continues to spread light and hope. For bookings or additional inquiries about Vicky Clark or 1 Message, visit her at www.1message.info or email her at vicky@1message.info
Are you a Singer, Songwriter, Poet, or Speaker who would like to be featured in our Artist Spotlight? Contact RYSE Magazine at Spotlight@rysemag.com SEPT EM B ER / O C T O B ER 2 0 1 1 | WWW. RY SE M AG AZ I N E.C OM 2 5
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WIN E & D I N E
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Food for the Soul:
Islandville
O By Yolanda Baruch
“Our goal is to serve food from the soul,”
is the mantra of Islandville Caribbean and Soul Food Restaurant, founded by Fillicia Johnson and her husband Clive Johnson. The couple officially opened their doors in September, and are now offering epicurean delights of the unique combination of Caribbean and soul food. Venturing into the restaurant business was always a dream for Fillicia since she was 18 years old, however, the idea only came in fruition about two years ago. While Clive oversaw his Classic Care Lawn Service and Fillicia jumped between such professions as a nurse and real estate broker, her sister told her of a commercial space that was available for her dream restaurant. The blending of the couple’s cultural backgrounds was the primary reason they decided to open their first restaurant. Fillicia hails from South Greensboro, South Carolina, where she was raised up in a traditional southern soul food cooking household and she was exposed to such savory dishes like fresh collard green, creamy macaroni and cheese, cornbread and chicken. Her home was filled with the exquisite aromas of blackened catfish, deep-fried pork chops, short ribs, potato salad and fried okra. She often enjoyed meals accented by creamed corn, buttery biscuits, and peach cobbler and washed it all down with homemade lemonade or sweet tea. Clive was raised in Jamaica and the entrees he grew to enjoy and love were ackee and saltfish with fried breadfruit, fried dumplings, callaloo and breadfruit. He savored jerk chicken, curry goat and rice and peas, washing it all down with a tangy sorrel punch. As Fillicia and Clive started their life together as a married couple, Clive’s mother taught Fillicia to cook all the traditional Jamaican dishes and throughout the years Fillicia intertwined her Caribbean cooking with her soul food influences.
At first, Fillicia used to cook her appetizing dishes at her residence for her friends and family. As word of mouth spread, the employees of Westgate Resorts would call her home at 9 a.m. to place their lunch orders. She had to prepare 40-50 lunch order per day, plus orders placed for dinner. Lines upon lines would consume her subdivision street. Due to the complaints of her neighbors, Fillicia and her husband knew they had to take the next step and pursue Fillicia’s childhood dream of running her own restaurant. Her goal is for Islandville to be a place where the food will be made from the soul, and a place for family-friendly fine dining. However, knowing that many Americans have not been accustomed to spicy food, which most Caribbean dishes are known for, Fillicia aims to tone down the spiciness without losing the exotic flavors. Customers who prefer spicy food will have the option to order additional seasonings on the side. The piquancy of her dishes is not the only aspect that Fillicia will be focused on. She is also concerned with making sure her food is also heart healthy by using less salt, baking rather than frying, and offering her customers nutritious alternatives like organic gourmet coffee. As she grows her new restaurant, she tastes savory and sweet success. For more information check out www.filliciasis landvillerestaurant.com.
“Our goal is to serve food from the soul” —Fillicia Johnson
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WIN E & D I N E
Eat Your Way To Better Health
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The “Poor Chef” Charles Mattocks Is On A Mission to Beat Diabetes by Ashley Cisneros Hailing from Long Island,
New York, Charles Mattocks AKA The Poor Chef grew up cooking with his West Indian parents. Now living in Orlando, Mattocks has built a multidimensional brand around the idea that healthy eating should be accessible to everyone. After sharing his recipes online, Mattocks decided to write a cook book. Eat Cheap, But Eat Well includes tantalizing recipes including Jamaican curry, pecancrusted tilapia with mangosalsa salad and coconut rice, plus exotic ratatouille with couscous. Today, his syndicated television and Internet show, “The Poor Chef,” features healthy, low-budget meals
“It’s even more important for couples who are starting families to cook at home and teach their children these healthy habits.” —Charles Mattocks that average $7 or less. Mattocks has also been a guest on Dr. Oz, CNN, The Today Show, among other shows. “When you have very little, you have to be very cautious to make every cent count,” he says. “But eating healthy doesn’t have to be expensive. You can go to a farmer’s market and get fresh vegetables and fruit at affordable prices.” Young professionals should create good habits of cooking healthy foods that will last
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a lifetime, Mattocks advises. “It’s even more important for couples who are starting families to cook at home and teach their children these healthy habits,” he says. “The rituals of cooking together and eating a meal together are a form of bonding. We need to get back to eating natural foods and eating together as a family.” There are different levels of health for every person, and Mattocks says that though we think we’re eating
healthily, there are always improvements that can be made. The a-ha moment for Mattocks came when he was diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes. “It turned out that I wasn’t eating as healthy as I thought I was,” he says. According to the American Diabetes Association, 18.7 percent of all African Americans age 20 years or older, have diagnosed or undiagnosed diabetes. In addition, 11.8 percent of Hispanic/ Latino Americans aged 20 years or older have been diagnosed with diabetes. Mattocks was inspired by his experience to journey across the country to meet other people battling diabetes. The result is a documentary, “The Diabetic You,” that will be released in 2012. In addition, he recently launched a new line of sugar/gluten-free, diabetic friendly chocolate called the Charles Bar. Mattocks encourages young professionals to ask their doctors about their risk for diabetes based on their family history, diet and lifestyle. Small changes can lead to big improvements. Trade high-calorie fruit juice for actual fruit. Cut back on rice and eat brown rice instead of white rice. Load up on veggies and think of them more as entrees instead of a side, Mattocks says. “Plan your meals ahead of time and make a grocery list,” he says. “When you cook, make enough food so that you have lunch the next day.” To meet Mattocks and see him prepare some of his famous delicacies, check out the Orlando Home Show at the Orange County Convention Center Oct. 7-9. Visit http:// www.orlandohomeshow.com for more information.
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S P O R TS & R E C R E AT I O N
How to Obtain and Retain a College Athletic Scholarship A few months ago, the
school year began for thousands of high school studentathletes in Central Florida. With the high number of talented athletes here, I am sure that it will be another successful year a far as the number of those that are offered college scholarships. Key word...Offered! During my 20 years in high school coaching and administration, I have seen, first hand, the hardships that students, and parents, go through in order to be offered these scholarships. The most compelling hardship is when the student-athlete is offered a scholarship, but for various reasons, cannot accept it. And I can assure you, there is enough blame to go around. The student-athlete, parents, and coaches all have a part in
the success, or failure in this process. So, to paraphrase an African Proverb, “It takes a village to help a student-athlete be eligible for an athletic scholarship.” A majority of the blame goes directly to the studentathlete. There is no reason that your GPA should be below a 2.0. As a studentathlete, you should apply the same focus and dedication in the classroom that is shown on the field or court. Parents, you should be as concerned about the homework that is due, as you are about the number of points or touchdowns that your child scores. Coaches should be the guiding force in this matter. Coaches should make the student-athlete and parents aware of all the things that have to be in place for that scholarship to be accepted. They should instruct the players and their parents on the Clearinghouse requirements. Most players or their parents have no idea what this is, and it is an honest ignorance. They honestly do
not know that the studentathlete has to be registered in the NCAA’s Eligibility Center in order to get the ball rolling for the player’s college recruitment. Parents, you cannot go through this process without asking questions. I was fortunate to coach many Division I athletes in Charlotte, NC, and the one thing I told parents, “Do your homework.” You can never have enough information. Research the school, coaches and academics. There are ways to find out many details when it comes to these matters. Parents also have to remember that the college is looking at you, also! This was extremely evident this past summer when I was fortunate to work as a Site Director at Disney for the National AAU basketball tournament. Some parents really showed their backsides! I am still friends with a majority of college basketball coaches and they would always ask me, “Dave, is that player’s parents here? Show them to me.” Also, each
Parents, most high school coaches tolerate you. College coaches do not have to. 30 RYSE MAGAZINE | S E P TE M BE R/ O CTO BE R 201 1
and every college coach I’ve worked with while in Charlotte, from Bobby Knight, to Coach K, to Gary Williams, they all ask, “What type of parents does the kid have?” Parents, most high school coaches tolerate you. College coaches do not have to. They want the complete package, GREAT KIDS and GREAT PARENTS. And lastly, college athletic scholarships are offered on a yearly basis. There is no such thing as a “4 year scholarship.” Great athletes who conduct themselves on a high level in the classroom, on and off the field/court will be able to obtain that scholarship each year. If not, great athletes are abundant. There is another one waiting for that opportunity to do something great. Please do not let the details hinder a student-athletes future. Like my 30 year Army veteran father used to say, “Pay attention to detail. The obvious is right in front of you. It’s the details that will make or break you!” And believe me, the NCAA is full of details! For more info on the NCAA’s Eligibility Center, go to www.eligibilitycenter.org. Coach Davis can be contacted at coachdaviddavis@ gmail.com
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BY Coach David D. Davis
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MIN D, B OD Y A N D S O U L
Brotherhood
Nation
Dr. Ron Fulmore Helps Families in Nairobi, Kenya BY Alicia Mitchell
Imagine toddlers rummaging mud-laden
streets high from sniffing glue to suppress ailing empty stomachs. Picture men deliriously drunk from drinking stolen jet fuel or mixing lethal cocktails of fecal water spiked with formaldehyde. A nightmare for most, this is a grave reality for some 2.5 million of Nairobi’s slum population. Am I going to catch some disease? Are they going to accept me? Will they rob me? Apprehensive thoughts like these flooded Dr. Ron Fumore’s mind as he embarked on a more than 22-hour journey into the unknown: Kawangware Slum (East Africa’s second largest slum), a few miles outside of Nairobi, Kenya. Dr. Ron was on a mission, charged with providing impoverished people with the basic necessities of clean water, education and love.
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“You can always read about Africa, but once you fully experience it with your five senses, that’s when you gain perspective,” Dr. Ron says. Recruited by a clinical director from World Hope, a faith-based non-profit humanitarian organization, Dr. Ron and his team were responsible for administering school physicals for the children of Hope Academy. Founded in 2002, Hope Academy has become the vehicle for hundreds of children to escape the cycle of poverty. Now enrolling over 350 students, the school educates children from Pre-School through the eighth grade. “They didn’t have medical health records,” according to Dr. Ron, “so we actually had to create a system to keep track of each students health, height, weight, vision and immunizations.”
PHOTOS COURTESY OF RON FULMORE
I
of a
Exposed to open sewage, poor sanitation and contaminated water, each student has to get dewormed every six months. “A lot of the animals they eat, they’re eating out of the sewage. They have to get dewormed more than a dog, it’s that bad.” In the states, Dr. Ron has done plenty of physicals for Pop Warner and other sports and applied his knowledge to not only design the actual medical record forms, but also establish a balanced workflow to see as many students as possible. Over a four-day period his team successfully treated just over 1,000 people. To these kids, school isn’t just a place to go or mess around. Education will save their lives. “If they don’t go to school, chances are, they’ll never receive two meals a day, shelter, uniforms or clean water offered at Hope Academy,” added Dr. Ron. There are almost 200 names on a waiting list for Hope Academy and every year they have to update it, because some kids aren’t surviving until the following year. Going to Kenya, Dr. Ron expected to educate the
youth, but it was really he who learned the most as he was treating them. “The kindness, faith and hope they have, considering their situation is shocking. If I was thrown into a similar situation now, I don’t know if I would be strong enough. These kids are really going through it.” Dr. Ron’s compound, basically a gated hotel, included armed security guards, high walls and barbed wires. Housed in Karen, a suburb of Nairobi, Kenya, exposes many travelers to street boys who prey off the absentmindedness of tourists visiting a third world country. Exposed to a lifestyle very unfamiliar to his own, Dr. Ron was pleased to witness the concept of brotherhood in its purist form. “These children learned from a young age that they’re all trying to get through this together. They figure out ways to work together and make due with what they have...together.” The goodness of people, the importance of patience, and the overwhelming necessity to not take things for granted has left a lasting impression on Dr. Ron and his finances. “The money I loosely spend
eating at a nice restaurant or out on the town, could easily pay for a child’s education for a year that’ll give him food and shelter.” Dr. Ron is proudly invested in the people of Kenya and mission of World Hope
to bring healing to a hurting world. To learn more about World Hope and all the many ways you can serve, visit www.weareworld hope.com
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L IFE S TYL E
Getting blood pressure at each visit is one small step to ensuring total health and wellness within the program.
Striving to live to a Healthy 100
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Coronary heart disease,
Type 2 diabetes, certain cancers, high blood pressure, stroke, liver and gallbladder disease, respiratory problems, infertility. According to the Center for Disease Control, these are just some of the major consequences that obesity causes. There are economic consequences as well. In 2008, obesity accounted for $147 billion of medical care costs in the United States. The statistics are staggering. Two-thirds of Americans are overweight and onethird is obese. Studies have shown that children who are obese are more prone to become obese adults. Since 1980, the number of obese children has tripled to 30%. The problem cuts so deep to the heart of American families that First Lady Michelle Obama has personally taken
on the initiative to decrease the rate of childhood obesity and promote healthier lifestyles. The challenge is awareness and overcoming the stereotype of obesity being caused by laziness and gluttony. The medical and scientific societies are taking action. In our own Central Florida, amidst the medical societies rising out of a demand for new and innovative resources to combat the current medical issues we face here in the Southeast, is the Florida Hospital’s Healthy 100 Kids program. On the corner of Princeton Street and Bedford Road, in a building with the words “Kids Docs” in bright colorful letters, are four amazing women who combat the issue of obesity daily. Dr. Angela Fals, medical director of the Healthy 100 Kids program,
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Tamara Dorway, registered dietitian, Dr. Celine Passeri, clinical psychologist, and Lindy Moore, exercise physiologist, make up the dynamic team that are helping families across Central Florida. Over the past year, Dr. Angela Fals, a well-estab-
Food and portion planning is an integral part to the success a family can have toward better health.
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How Florida Hospital’s Healthy 100 Kids program incorporates family values, tailored programs, and small steps to influence a generation of change BY Jaconia Toyloy
“we want them to have lifelong changes that are going to last forever and hopefully spin this whole epidemic around.” —Tamara Dorway, nutritionist
Exercise can be fun and beneficial, and is an important goal of the program.
lished leader in the pediatric professional circle and author of the award winning blog “My Training Zone”, and her team of experts have been extremely successful in incorporating healthy changes to over 300 familieschanges that will help them “live to a healthy 100.” A key to the program’s success is that it is not just about making changes in the life of the child, but influencing significant changes in their family’s daily habits. All children participate in the program with at least one parent or guardian. Each family is put on a one year track throughout which they are involved in programs and workshops that engage them in areas of physical fitness, nutrition, relationships and more. A true innovation of the program lies in the comprehensive approach to solving the individuality of each child’s obesity. The child and their family are assessed by
each team member to produce a tailored plan that addresses the specific causes of that family’s obesity problem. Dr. Steven Smith, scientific director of the Transitional Research Institute in Winter Park has studied the issue of metabolism and diabetes for about 20 years, “If you can understand how and why certain people are susceptible to obesity that gives you an avenue to intervene in a way that you wouldn’t if you just say eat less and exercise more. For example, people who have problems controlling their appetite in the middle of the night, need to be treated completely different than people who are binge eaters, and that needs to be treated completely different from people who can’t burn fat.” Entrance into the program begins with a medical assessment by Dr. Fals to investigate any genetic propensities the child may
have inherited. Then Tamara Dorway, the nutritionist, detects individual and family eating habits that affect the child’s weight. Lindy Moore, the physiologist assesses the child’s current physical and exercise habits. Dr. Passeri, the psychologist explores the child’s mental wellness and body image that may affect all the other areas of the issue. With the information produced, the team is able to create a plan to fit the needs of the family. A health coach, one of the team members, is assigned to each case to provide guidance and support throughout the entire journey. Throughout the year of meeting with the team, parents learning new tips, attending workshops, and incorporating new healthy habits, children and their families are bonding and becoming a stronger, healthier unit. Tamara Dorway illustrates the achievable when she says, “We take
very small steps with them, very small goals because we’re not putting them on a diet…we’re not saying you have to exercise everyday… we want them to have lifelong changes that are going to last forever and hopefully spin this whole epidemic around.” A significant attribute of the Florida Hospital’s Healthy 100 Kids initiative is that they accept all children into their program, regardless of if they possess medical insurance. Day to day they work diligently at what they do, opening their doors to every child who needs their expertise, and making a significant footprint in an epidemic that branches beyond this Central Florida region. The growth and development of this program is unrelenting because of the effectiveness of a full circle support group, proving that it truly does take a village.
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L O V E & HA P P I N E S S
External vs. Internal
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It all begins with you: the relationship you have with yourself determines the relationship you have with others Once something presents
itself externally, it has been dwelling internally for quite some time. Unfortunately, instead of addressing the internal issue, many people prefer to put their time, energy and various resources into treating the ‘symptom.’ For example: Skin: Blemishes most often are a result of internal changes in the body, perhaps the inclusion or exclusion of something from your diet, medication, lack of water, etc. However, instead of dedicating time and energy into researching the foods which work and do not work for your body and skin in an effort to return to and maintain homeostasis, many people spend an exorbitant amount
of resources on products to ‘treat’ the blemish instead of being preventative. Hair: Dry, brittle hair is also a symptom of an internal issue. Similar to our skin, our hair reacts to changes in our diets, stress levels, hormonal changes etc. Therefore, slathering expensive conditioners, adding a plethora of products or obtaining haircuts by a highly sought after stylist, is only treating the symptom. The internal/external dynamic also applies to relationships. The relationship one has with self (internal) determines the relationships and interactions one will have with others (external). Take a few moments to reflect on your relationships
(romantic, family, friends, business, etc). What is the quality of your relationships? • Dramatic? • Supportive? • Loving? • Fun? • Passionate? • Healthy? • Unhealthy? You are the common denominator in all of your relationships. Therefore, instead of blaming the other individuals, begin to reflect on your role in each of these relationships (internal). If your relationships are not operating at its highest level, consider the following: 1. Communication: What is your communication style? Sarcasm, shutting down, yelling, belittling the other
person, ignoring, cursing, etc are NOT effective or mature modes of communication. Usually people default to these modes when they feel (a) threatened or (b) vulnerable. If you feel a or b, the first question you should ask yourself is, “Do I think this person is intentionally trying to hurt my feelings?” If the answer is yes, then you are with the wrong person. If the answer is no, let down your guard and begin to say what you feel: ‘When you did or did not do X, it made me feel Y.’ 2. Honesty: Is the relationship based on honesty? Are all parties being honest about their expectations and desires? Are you being honest with yourself about all
Misha N. Granado, MPH, MS is the Executive Director of Love Grows a consulting group providing individual counseling, interactive workshops and books to help improve relationships, beginning with the relationship one has with self. To learn more, please visit www.thelovewithinexpereince.com and @LoveGrows_Misha for ‘love tweets’ about how to strengthen, improve and honor your relationships. I Grow. You Grow. Love Grows! 36 RYSE MAGAZINE | S E P TE M BE R/ O CTO BE R 201 1
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BY Misha N. Granado, MPH, MS
“The majority of external events have an internal source; therefore, to change your external reality, begin to change your internal perspective.” —Misha N. Granado, MPH, MS aspects of the relationship? Sometimes people remain in a relationship which they know is neither healthy nor progressing; perhaps due to the fear of being single or believing they will not meet someone else with similar qualities. It is not healthy to string someone along or sell them a dream. Be honest if you are not happy in the relationship, if you no longer want to remain in the relationship, if you are feeling vulnerable, hurt, scared,
and angry, etc. Tell the truth and live your truth. 3. Priority: Make your relationships a priority. Stop taking them for granted. Similar to any other living organism, relationships require nurturing. Healthy relationships are reciprocal; one person should not be the only one keeping the relationship going. For Romantic Couples: Establish a weekly date night. This is a sacred time, do not cancel or reschedule.
Date night does not have to occur at night; instead it should be a time conducive to both schedules. Each week the one person is responsible for planning the date (this should rotate weekly); get out of the house and try something new (other than movies and dinner). Make it fun! Turn off the phones. Do not update Facebook. Do not post your location on Twitter. This is a sacred time for you and your love one. Don’t tell yourself you do
not have time. You prioritize your salon visits, gym, barbershop, etc., you can prioritize your love one! Once you begin to make each other a priority, I guarantee your relationship will improve. Prevention is the best approach. Do not wait until a ‘symptom’ appears. Begin cultivating your relationships today, by beginning to work on improving self. The quality of your relationships is a reflection of you. I Grow. You Grow. Love Grows!
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EM P O WE R M E N T
First Steps:
How to Become an Entrepreneur
B
Provided by Thomas Boyd, Ph.D, Dean of Kaplan University’s School of Business and Management Business analysts have stated that small business
creation and a growth of entrepreneurship will be a key driver in the country’s economic recovery. According to the Kauffman Index of Entrepreneurial Activity, the number of new businesses created during the current recession has increased. In 2009, business start-ups reached their highest level in 14 years – even exceeding the number of start-ups during the peak 1999-2000 technology boom. While some may argue that you can’t teach someone to be an entrepreneur, according to Thomas Boyd, Ph.D., dean of Kaplan University’s School of Business and Management, there are many ways to incorporate your entrepreneurial spirit into your everyday life and work, to see if it is the right course for you.
Be more entrepreneurial in your current job:
Think like your customer – focus on customer value and new ways to create it. Think like your boss – look for wasted time, effort, and resources. Think like the other functional areas of the firm and identify how your group can better interact with them to improve the organization.
Acquire the skills to start your own business:
Assess yourself honestly. Will you be happy taking risks, being creative, and working long hours? Take a certificate or course in entrepreneurship to assess your readiness and gain some knowledge of how to begin the process of starting your own company. Learn about market evaluations and risk assessments.
Thomas Boyd, Ph.D Plan accordingly: Will you need to keep your current job, or get a side job to sustain you while you are working on growing your own business? Draft a business plan that identifies how much capital you will need to start your business, what investment sources you may need to tap, how you will differentiate your service/product from your competitors, how you will market and promote you business, etc.
Prior to serving as dean at Kaplan University, Thomas Boyd was the associate dean for academic programs at the College of Business and Economics at California State University, Fullerton, (CSUF). He has also served as a professor of marketing and a member of the board of governors of the University Foundation. Boyd has won numerous teaching research, and service awards, including the 2010 Faculty of the Year and 2009 Outstanding Professor awards from the College, and the 2007 Outstanding Faculty Recognition for innovative teaching award from CSUF. 38 RYSE MAGAZINE | S E P TE M BE R/ O CTO BE R 201 1
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POWER PLAYERS
From seasoned veterans to fast rising stars, RYSE Magazine spotlights 25 of Central Florida’s Attorneys and Firms on the RYSE.
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Gregorio (Greg) Francis Firm: Morgan and Morgan, P.A. Practice: Personal Injury He wanted to be their voice… As a child, Attorney Greg Francis couldn’t have imagined that he would one day spend his life fighting for the rights of those others ignored at one of the most successful law firms in the country. After all, he spoke very little English when he came to the U.S. from Panama as a six-year-old in 1973. His family established roots in the Richmond Heights neighborhood of Orlando and he had to learn a new way of life. But his new life was good. At an early age, he began to read. In fact, he spent much of his time reading just about anything he could get his hands on. And as he grew up, he was known by his close-knit circle of friends as “the guy who would be successful one day.” He wanted to prove they were right. He credits his mother and stepfather for providing the foundation from which he was able to succeed. His mom relentlessly encouraged him and his stepdad was a corrections officer with a military background, so discipline was a big part of his household. “If not for my mother, I certainly wouldn’t be where I am today,” Greg said. “She brought me up with good values, a rock solid work ethic and the desire to do my best in every situation.” Greg played football and ran track at Oak Ridge High School. He graduated in 1986 and went to the University of Florida, where he majored in criminal justice. But he was still undecided on exactly what to do with his life. Growing up, Greg often saw people get into trouble. His best friend during his childhood was convicted of murder as an adult and is currently serving a life sentence. But he also saw that the people getting in trouble didn’t have a voice. They were often overlooked, stigmatized, he wanted to be their voice. “All my life, I watched those less fortunate get taken advantage of in so many different situations,” Greg said. “Whether criminal, legal or even in business, I witnessed first-hand how those without a voice were robbed of their pride and dignity. I wanted to do something to help.” In 2001, Greg joined the law firm of Morgan & Morgan, P.A. as a partner, and today serves on the Executive Committee and is the Managing Partner of the firm’s Mississippi office. “Working
at Morgan & Morgan has been one of the best experiences of my career,” Greg said. “I’ve come in contact with so many remarkable people and have the good fortune to work on a variety of interesting cases.” From 2004-2006 he served as the Co-Managing Partner of the Miami office of the “Cochran Firm”. In 2006, Greg became a shareholder of Morgan & Morgan, P.A. — Orlando, where he has spent his career relentlessly seeking justice for those who need a voice. Greg is currently one of three lead counsel in the Black Farmers Case, the largest civil rights discrimination lawsuit settlement in U.S. history. The $1.25 billion settlement involves tens of thousands of black farmers who were discriminated in the 1980s and 1990s by the U.S. Dept. of Agriculture.
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Natalie Jackson Firm: Women’s Trial Group Practice: Personal Injury and Wrongful Death This Orlando-based lawyer and U.S. Navy Veteran, has become something of a media star, with several highly publicized cases in the last few years, appearing on a plethora of national news networks including CNN, MSNBC, Good morning America, and the Today Show. But she hasn’t let the glamour go to her head. “I believe in creative solutions to my client’s problems, personal accountability, and giving back to the community above all,” Jackson said. An example of this philosophy in action can be seen in the outcome of one of her more recent cases involving a homeless man who was beaten by a police officer’s son. The incident was caught on tape but the officer’s son was taken home instead of arrested for his crime. Jackson held a press conference and publicly scolded the young man for not taking responsibility for his actions. She gave him until noon the next day to offer restitution or face a lawsuit and criminal charges filed by her client. A settlement was reached the next day that required the attacker to not only pay for the homeless man’s medical bills, but to donate money to various drug rehabilitation and homeless
help organizations. The homeless man also received a confidential monetary settlement to help him get off the streets. Perhaps the most important case for her career, however, came in 2008, when Jackson represented a little girl who lost her mother and baby brother in a freakish accident when a NASCAR plane crashed in their home. Jackson had worked on wrongful death cases in the past, but she never dealt with an airplane case. Besides researching aviation law, she hired a nationally known aviation accident Reconstructionist, an economist, and media coordinator. Ultimately, the case settled for a confidential eight-figure sum. Even though Jackson’s law firm, The Women’s Trial Group, has settled millions of dollars worth of cases, Jackson’s firm exemplifies the idea that money isn’t everything. She and the 4 lawyers she works with offers pro bono services and payment plans, and her interest in service doesn’t end with her clients. She believes more experienced firms, like hers, should help newer firms succeed by assisting with legal or business advice. She said, “Lawyer Lesson #1 is to never put money, ego, public opinion, or political ambition over JUSTICE.” SEPT EM B ER / O C T O B ER 2 0 1 1 | WWW. RY SE M AG AZ I N E.C OM 4 3
Andre Young & Earnest Deloach Firm: Young DeLoach PLLC Practice: Auto Accidents, Business Formation, Consulting, Contract Disputes, Family Law, Foreclosure, Labor & Employment Law, Landlord Tenant, Motorcycle Accidents, Non-Profit Formation, Nursing Home Negligence, Personal Injury, Probate, Real Estate, Wills, Trusts and Estates, Wrongful Death Name: Earnest DeLoach, Jr. Name of Firm: Young DeLoach, PLLC Bar Admissions: Florida, Federal Courts for the Northern, Southern and Middle Districts of Florida; U.S. Supreme Court Practice Areas: Business formation and transactions, commercial litigation, real estate, government relations Major Cases: Various cases for and against major corporations, small and developing businesses and governmental entities Professional Background: Six years as an associate and senior associate and some of Orlando’s and best law firms; 5 years as a solo practitioner; 1 year as a partner at Young DeLoach PLLC Professional Affiliations: National Bar Association, Tiger Bay Club, African American Chamber of Commerce of Central Florida Quote you live by: “Failure is one day coming face to face with the person you might have become.” Business philosophy: Doing “good” and doing “well” are not mutually exclusive. Best way to keep a competitive edge: Never stop learning. Hire great talent and let them flourish, rather than hiring mediocre talent and trying to train them to be great. What motivates you: Being a good example to my son Elijah Goal yet to be achieved: Funding a multimillion dollar charitable trust in my mother’s name Greatest obstacle right now: Time Words I live by: When better is possible, good won’t do. Judgment calls Biggest obstacle in the legal field: a lack of seasoned lawyers willing to take an interest in and mentor young lawyers Best decision: Marrying my wife Worst decision: Shaving my head in college (it never quite grew back) Mentor: Judge Hubert Grimes Most important lessons you’ve learned: Every tub has to sit on its own bottom True confessions Why you chose this profession: It’s the only thing I know of that allows me to funnel all of my talents to an end that helps people. What makes you most neurotic: Being late I wish more people would take more notice of: My smile. My mom was always so proud of how straight and white they were when I was a kid. The most surprising thing that happened to me: Being asked to sing a song in an interview for a coveted New York law firm summer internship A common misperception of me is: That I’m rich! I’m good at: Taking responsibility I’m very bad at: Being still Award/honor you¹re most proud of: Husband and father The world would be a better place if only: we would all be personally responsible and collectively accountable. Most influential book: The Greatest Salesman In the World by Og Mandino Favorite sports team: Miami Hurricanes Favorite movie: Shawshank Redemption, Glory Family Life: Andrea (wife), and Elijah (son) 44 RYSE MAGAZINE | S E P TE M BE R/ O CTO BE R 201 1
Name: Andre T. Young Name of Firm: Young DeLoach, PLLC Bar Admissions: Florida, Us Supreme Court, Middle District U. S. Federal Court Practice Areas: Personal Injury; Wills, Trusts and Estates; Bankruptcy; Employment Discrimination Major Cases: They are all major when you are starting out, which I am. Professional Background: Formerly with Young, Simmons & Burt, LLC Professional Affiliations: Paul C. Perkins Bar Assoc.; Quote you live by: If better is possible, good is not enough Business philosophy: Insure that you exceed client expectations Best way to keep a competitive edge: Always be humble and open to suggestions, criticism and change to stay competitive What motivates you: Personal desire to reach my potential Goal yet to be achieved: Become a philanthropist Greatest obstacle right now: Finding balance between my personal and professional lives Words I live by: If better is possible good is not enough Judgment calls Biggest obstacle in the legal field: None in my opinion Best decision: To partner with my best friend Worst decision: Being hesitant to terminate an employee that is not working out Mentor: Johnny C. Taylor, Jr Most important lessons you’ve learned: The importance of being frugal, and the flexibility low debt can give you as a business person True confessions Why you chose this profession: My sincere desire to help people What makes you most neurotic: Ignorant people I wish more people would take more notice of: The sowing that people do prior to the harvest. A common misperception of me is: That I am younger than I am. I’m good at: Yard work I’m very bad at: Relaxing Award/honor you’re most proud of: Being chosen as teacher of the year in my previous career as a high school history teacher Personal cause: I have a heart for children and old people The world would be a better place if only: People were not so selfish Most influential book: Ishmael by Daniel Quinn Favorite sports team: Atlanta Braves Favorite movie: Glory Family Life: Single, no kids.
Earnest DeLoach Jr. (left), and Andre Young
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“Rosemonde is one of the most perspicacious, and assiduous attorneys that I have ever met. Her dedication to the pursuit of justice is extraordinary.” —Judge Kenneth L Williams
Rosemonde Cely Firm: Atlantic Justice Law Group Practice: Medical Malpractice, Motor Vehicle Accident, Premise Liability/Slip and Fall, Wrongful Death Born the daughter of a minister in Port-au-Prince Haiti, Rosemonde Cely has dedicated her life to helping others. When Rosemonde was 8 years old, she moved to the United States where she had to learn a new language and culture. Her determination and strong work ethic were apparent during this transition period. She credits her parents and brother with teaching her strength and confidence. Rosemonde speaks fluent Creole and is active the Haitian community. Rosemonde attended both undergraduate school and law school at Florida A&M University, where she graduated with honors. She distinguished herself by serving on Law Review and Moot Court. After law school, she joined a civil litigation firm, practicing medical malpractice and other torts. She then co-managed another law firm and practiced business law, personal injury, and criminal defense. Soon, Rosemonde met former circuit court judge Kenneth L. Williams. Having recently retired from the bench, he was in the process of opening a personal injury firm focusing on mass torts and catastrophic injuries. The two immediately recognized they shared a common vision and values. It wasn’t long before Rosemonde joined the Atlantic Justice Law Group as partner. The Atlantic Justice Law Group had immediate success with a national mass tort case involving the diabetes drug Avandia. The drug was used to treat diabetes but caused strokes, heart attacks and other side effects. The drug caused disproportionate injury and death to the African- American community. Rosemonde and the Atlantic Justice Law Group are helping deserving families get compensation for this inexcusable injustice. Rosemonde credits her success to her parents. “The values I learned from my family, such as faith, hard work, and empathy continue to shape my character and guide the way I practice law.” Rosemonde serves as a Board Member for JSC Ministries Inc., a nonprofit Christian charitable organization. She is also a volunteer mentor with the Orange County Bar Association, and tutors students preparing for the Bar Exam. Rosemonde is a self described political junkie and often volunteers on political campaigns. Judge Williams offers high praise; “you will be hearing a lot about Rosemonde Cely. She is a superstar who has just begun to take off.”
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Anthony Hall Firm: Littler Mendelson P.C. Practice: Wage and Hour, Discrimination and Harassment, Complex Litigation and Jury Trials, Training — Compliance, Ethics, Leadership, Policies, Procedures, and Handbooks Anthony J. Hall is a shareholder with the law firm of Littler Mendelson, P.C., the largest labor and employment firm in the U.S. A specialist in his field, he has litigated and tried employment claims throughout the country, including race, age, disability, gender, sexual harassment, as well as retaliation and whistleblower claims. Having extensive appellate experience, he’s argued before the United States Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals, Florida Supreme Court, and several Florida District Courts of Appeal. Anthony says the best way to keep a competitive edge is to work harder than the next person. This philosophy is no more evident than in his journey. Graduating from Morris Brown College with his B.A., Anthony went on to earn his Juris Doctorate from the University Of Florida Levin College Of Law. He gained admission to practice in both Florida and Georgia. Immediately thereafter, he served as an Assistant State Attorney General for the state of Florida in its Daytona Beach bureau. He then moved on as a Senior Associate
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and a partner at two national law firms. It was in 2007 that Anthony joined Littler Mendelson. In addition to the practice of law, Mr. Hall is involved with a number of organizations. He is active in the National Employment Law Council as a member of its Coordinating Committee and as Chair of the Membership Committee. He is a member of the Labor and Employment Sections of The Florida Bar, Georgia Bar and the Orange County Bar Association. He is an active member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. and the 100 Black Men of Orlando, Inc. In September 2008, Mr. Hall was appointed by then Florida Governor, Charlie Crist, to the 18th Circuit, Judicial Nominating Commission. His term expires in 2012. He is most proud of being named one of the “Legal Elite” in the state of Florida. “A timid man surrenders, but a resolute man prevails,” is the philosophy he lives by and his countless successes denote that. Rosemonde Cely says, “After working on a challenging case with Anthony and winning, I can say that he is one the best litigators around. His level of diligence and competence is rare.” Anthony J. Hall is truly a leader among us and an inspiration and example to those that follow his precedent.
Terry Sanks Firm: Beusse, Wolter, Sanks, Mora & Maire, P.A. Practice: Intellectual Property, Patent, Trademark, Copyright, Related Business Matters, and Related Litigation Matters God, Love, Determination Terry M. Sanks is currently the Managing Partner/President of Beusse Wolter Sanks Mora & Maire, P.A., an Orlandobased intellectual property boutique law firm with one of the largest concentrations of registered patent attorneys, trademark attorneys, copyright attorneys, and intellectual property litigators in Florida. Mr. Sanks was admitted to the Florida Bar in 1998, and to the United States Patent Bar in 1999. The Patent Bar is a very exclusive Bar since only individuals with engineering or science backgrounds are admitted. In addition to his law degree, he holds a BS degree in Electrical Engineering from Tuskegee University and a MS degree from Fresno State in Engineering. Mr. Sanks is one of a few African-American registered patent attorneys in Florida, and the only one in Central Florida. Prior to attending law school, Mr. Sanks was an officer in the United States Air Force where he was the first program manager of the Electric Propulsion Space Experiment (ESEX) program. He also wrote several articles about electric propulsion and represented the Air Force at national and international conferences. Mr. Sanks serves a variety of clients ranging from Fortune® 500 companies to individual entrepreneurs, located worldwide. His professional affiliations include the Florida Bar, National Bar Association, American Intellectual Property Law Association, American Bar Association, and the Orange County Bar Association. Mr. Sanks is also very involved in the community. He just concluded a 12-year stint on the Board of Directors of Catholic Charities of Central Florida, having served as President. He has been the band booster president and vice president at Teague Middle School, and is a member of the School Advisory Counsel at Lake Brantley High. In addition to serving as coach for several youth sports teams, Mr. Sanks is also a volunteer Guardian Ad Litem. Mr. Sanks’ business philosophy centers on meeting the needs of his clients. The cornerstones of meeting his clients’ needs include providing a quality work product, maintaining a thorough understanding of the law, trust and respect. He works to maintain his competitive edge by having frank discussions with his clients about their expectations of his services, and continuously keeps aware of current changes in the law so that he can best advise his clients. Mr. Sanks’ motivation is his family. “My maternal grandfather once told me how his bank in Northwest Georgia turned him down for a loan to send my mother to college only after the banker learned the loan was for my mother’s education at Tuskegee Institute. My grandfather did not let this setback deter him. He found a way to send his daughter to school.” Growing up, Mr. Sanks’ parents further put it this way: “With God, Love, and Determination, there are no limits.” Mr. Sanks has definitely lived his life believing there are no limits and has tried to relay the same to his children and others he encounters.
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C. Douglas Green Firm: Morgan and Morgan, P.A. Practice: Personal Injury Business philosophy: Get to the point and always be honest to clients. Best way to keep a competitive edge: Staying on top of the law and continue to try cases. What motivates you: A commitment to being the best trial lawyer. Greatest obstacle right now: The sky is the limit. Words I live by: “Always work hard and never forget where you came from” my father, Lee O. Green. Judgment calls: Best decision: In law the best decision was Brown v. Board of Education. Mentor: Walter Ketchum, Jr. Esquire. Most important lessons you’ve learned: Always be honest to clients. True confessions Why you chose this profession: Job security. We are a nation of laws, and we will always need lawyers to interpret them. What makes you most neurotic: Clients who think they know the law. I wish more people would take more notice of: LIFE. The most surprising thing that happened to me: Getting an interview with John Morgan and getting hired. A common misperception of me is: Too nice. I’m good at: Sports and figuring out “who done it.” I’m very bad at: Fixing things around the house. Personal cause The world would be a better place if only: People would pay attention to one another. Most influential book: “To Kill a Mockingbird.” This was one of the 1st books I read and it showed me that the law was not always on our side. Favorite sports team: Duke Blue Devils. Favorite movie: Godfather. Family Life: Wife of 12 years, Taylor 6, Joshua 3. Favorite way to spend free time: With family. 50 RYSE MAGAZINE | S E P TE M BE R/ O CTO BE R 201 1
Moses Dewitt Firm: Dewitt Law Firm, P.A. Practice: Family Law, Divorce, Real Estate, Commercial Transactions, Commercial Litigation, Estate Planning, Mediation, Appeals, Criminal Defense Name: Moses Robert DeWitt Bar Admissions: Florida Practice Areas: Criminal defense, domestic, commercial, and real estate litigation. Professional Affiliations: The Florida Bar Association American Bar Association – Tort, Trial, and Insurance Practice Section • Vice-Chair, PODL Committee, 2008 – 2011 • Vice-Chair, Law Student Board, 2010 – 2011 • Long Range Planning Liaison, 2009 – 2010 • Member, Task Force on Outreach to Law Students, 2010 – 2011 The Central Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (CFACDL) Quote you live by: “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.” – Martin Luther King, Jr.
Moses DeWitt is a native of Central Florida. After graduating from Winter Park High School, he went on to Emory University to receive his undergraduate degree and to Florida State University College of Law to receive his Juris Doctorate. After law school, Mr. DeWitt returned to Central Florida and assisted indigent clients at the Office of the Public Defender. As an Assistant Public Defender, Mr. DeWitt was able to assist hundreds of clients accused of crimes, many of whom were acquitted. Mr. DeWitt continues to assist those in need through pro bono work, while in private practice. Today, Mr. DeWitt handles criminal, commercial, real estate, and domestic litigation matters. Mr. DeWitt is the author of numerous articles and actively contributes to the DeWitt Law Review, a weekly radio show on AM 580 and FM 96.5 WDBO, which discusses recent changes in the law and responds to listeners’ legal questions. SEPT EM B ER / O C T O B ER 2 0 1 1 | WWW. RY SE M AG AZ I N E.C OM 5 1
Coretta Anthony-Smith and Randall B. Bishop Firm: Anthony-Smith Law, P.A. Practice: Auto Accidents, Personal Injury, Slip and Fall
Business philosophy: Contemplate case scenarios to maximize case outcome in the best interest of our clients. Best way to keep a competitive edge: Being overprepared at all times What motivates you: Winning Goal yet to be achieved: Retirement. Greatest obstacle right now: Running a business while practicing law and still maintaining a healthy family life Judgment calls: Biggest obstacle in the legal field: Legal field professionals that give attorneys a bad name. Best decision: Being a devoted mother, wife and successful lawyer. Worst decision: I do not believe there are “worse decisions.” I believe we grow and learn from the decisions we make. Mentor: Herb McMillan, a successful board-certified civil trial lawyer who makes time for my endless questions Most important lessons you’ve learned: Life is precious. True confessions Why you chose this profession: To have a license to argue. I enjoy fighting for what I believe to be as right. What makes you most neurotic: Grammatical errors I wish more people would take more notice of: Attorneys may not be able to take every call as soon as they receive, because we are avidly working on clients’ cases. I’m good at: Litigation. Award/honor you’re most proud of: Being a mother. Personal cause The world would be a better place if only: People observed laws and ordinances. Favorite movie: Signs. The theme of the movie is that there are no coincidences – everything happens for a reason. I truly believe that there is a purpose behind everything. Family Life: It’s hard to be equally dedicated to both the practice of law and my family. My greatest obstacle is trying to maintain a balance between both.
Name: Randall B. Bishop Name of Firm: Partner at Anthony-Smith Law, P.A. Practice Areas: Personal Injury, Automobile Accidents, Slip and Falls, and Insurance Disputes Professional Affiliations: Florida Bar, American Bar Association and Orange County Bar Quote you live by: My mother gave me a plaque a few years ago that states “Be forever grateful.” To me, those few words are powerful and convey a lot. I am truly thankful for everything in my life, both good and bad. All of the adversity that I have gone through has helped me tremendously in my professional life. It has made me stronger. Business philosophy: I strive to be the best in all that I do. I have a strong belief in myself and have always believed that I can accomplish anything I set my mind to. Best way to keep a competitive edge: I strive to be the best in all that I do. I have a strong belief in myself and have always believed that I can accomplish anything I set my mind to. I strongly believe that hard work and dedication will be rewarded. I am and have always been extremely ambitious. One of my life goals has been to serve as an inspiration and role model to other young black males who have been born to unwed teenage mothers. I want them to understand that they are not defined by their situation and that they can do anything they set their mind to if they truly believe in themselves and put forth maximum effort. What motivates you: Each day I strive to be a better person. Goal yet to be achieved: My goal is to become a Board Certified Trial Attorney. One of my life goals has been to serve as an inspiration and role model to other young black males who have been born to unwed teenage mothers. I want them to understand that they are not defined by their situation and that they can do anything they set their mind to if they truly believe in themselves and put forth maximum effort. Words I live by: “Success is discovering your best talents and skills and utilizing them where they will make the most effective contribution to your fellow man.” “Success is doing what you do well and doing well whatever you do.” Mentor: Presently, I do not have a professional mentor, but I can honestly say that on a personal level, I truly admire my mother. Life has not always been easy for her, but she has managed to turn her life around and is a true inspiration. She makes me want to be a better person. She is constantly encouraging me and forces me to acknowledge all of my flaws and faults. True confessions Why you chose this profession: Since I was five years old I have wanted to be a lawyer. I love practicing law and would not want to do anything else. Don’t get me wrong, the practice of law is hard, demanding and at times all consuming, but it is extremely rewarding. Most influential book: Nathan McCall, Makes Me Want to Holla
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Coretta Anthony-Smith and partner Randall B. Bishop
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Skinner Louis Firm: The Louis Law Firm, PLLC Practice: Business Law Skinner’s mantra is simple, “Here to protect your future.” Simply put, to make his clients better off tomorrow than they were yesterday. “I’m into exponential growth, in order to do so a business owner must always give themselves room to grow, to be bigger, better, and faster”, explains Skinner. To this aim Skinner seeks to provide his clients more value than they pay for. During consultations he provides his clients a brief spectrum of the business world by discussing the importance of understanding negotiations, mergers and acquisitions, strategic planning, and asset protection. Skinner Louis of the Louis Law Firm’s mantra is simple, “Here to protect your future.” Being a successful entrepreneur himself, his passion is to provide legal guidance and protection to give his clients a safer space to grow their business. “My ultimate goal is to be able to show anyone how to create wealth by effectively maximizing and allocating the resources around them.” Skinner teaches his clients by demonstration that discipline, motivation, and hard work can overcome urban malaise and poverty. His expertise derives from personal experience. His beginnings were modest, but his family was strong. His father taught him to master personal economy, or as
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his dad put it, “making the most out of what you have.” With his strong upbringing and an acute sense of financial responsibility, Skinner maximized every opportunity presented and continued to surpass the goals he set for himself. He graduated with his undergraduate degree from UCF and his law degree from Florida A&M where he graduated in the top 15% of his class. When Skinner is not creating businesses, writing demand letters, or running one of his own businesses, he is teaching. Skinner is committed to sharing his education with the world. “My ultimate goal is to be able to show anyone how to create wealth by effectively maximizing and allocating the resources around them.” Skinner teaches by example that discipline, motivation, and hard work can overcome urban malaise and poverty. Skinner proudly acknowledges that he came from the same surroundings. “In all honestly if anyone should be able to make it, I believe it is someone who can overcome poverty. To me struggle only strengthens one to accomplish future feats.” Although he is a young lawyer and a recent father, Skinner envisions an early retirement to a beachfront condo in South Florida. For now, Skinner, his wife, and their baby daughter are choosing to stay in Orlando and grow here. “I’m a young lawyer with an old soul”, offers Skinner. Skinner Louis is a lot of things – an entrepreneur, a teacher, a business analyst, but he’s definitely not your father’s lawyer.
While there are many great attorneys and firms who are not included on the list, it is intended to provide a snapshot of the great young talent that exists within Central Florida’s field of law. (Attorneys are listed alphabetically)
Andre T. Young and Earnest DeLoach Jr. Young DeLoach PLLC 1115 East Livingston St, Orlando, FL www.youngdeloachlaw.com
Kimberly A. Lopez Akerman Senterfitt, LLP 420 South Orange Avenue, Ste 1200 Orlando, FL www.akerman.com
Rosemonde Cely Atlantic Justice Law Group 121 S. Orange Ave, Ste 1500, Orlando, FL www.atlanticjustice.com
Anthony Hall Littler Mendelson P.C. 111 N. Magnolia Ave, Ste 1250, Orlando, FL www.littler.com
LaShawnda A. Jackson Rumberger, Kirk & Caldwell Attorneys At Law 300 South Orange Ave, Orlando, FL www.rumberger.com
Shannon Ligon Ligon Law Group 126 East Jefferson Street Orlando, FL www.ligonlawgroup.com
C. Douglas Green Morgan and Morgan, P.A. 20 N Orange Ave, Orlando, FL www.forthepeople.com
Mark Lippman Lippman Law Offices, P.A 255 South Orange Ave, Ste 720, Orlando, FL www.lippmanlawoffice.com
Coretta Anthony-Smith and Randall B. Bishop Anthony-Smith Law, P.A. 1701 Park Center Dr, Suite 203, Orlando, FL www.anthony-smithlaw.com Greg Francis Morgan and Morgan, P.A. 20 N Orange Ave, Orlando, FL www.forthepeople.com Jacques L. Cooper and Reganel J. Reeves Justice League Law Group 3975 S. Orange Blossom Trl., Ste111, Orlando, FL www.justiceleaguelaw.com Jameil McWhorter Lowndes, Drosdick, Doster, Kantor & Reed Professional Association 215 North Eola Dr, Orlando, FL www.lowndes-law.com Karlyn R. Hylton, Alisia M. Adamson, Sasha A. Watson and Conti J. Moore Hylton, Adamson, Watson, & Moore, PLLC 120 East Colonial Dr, Orlando, FL www.hawmlaw.com
Matt Morgan and Mike Morgan Morgan and Morgan, P.A. 20 N Orange Ave, Orlando, FL www.forthepeople.com
Sharon Thomas The Law Offices of Sharon Thomas, P.A. 15 North Tampa Ave. Orlando, FL www.attorney4you.org Skinner Louis The Louis Law Firm, PLLC 7635 Ashley Park Ct, Ste 503-P, Orlando, FL www.louis-washington.com
Michael T. Gibson Michael T. Gibson, P.A. 839 N. Magnolia Avenue, Orlando, FL www.autojusticeattorney.com
Stephanie B. Moss and Stacey D. Wilson Moss & Wilson, P.A. 126 E Colonial Dr, Orlando, FL www.mossandwilson.com
Moses Dewitt Dewitt Law Firm, P.A. 37 N. Orange Ave, Ste 840, Orlando, FL www.dewittlaw.com
Steve E. Baker Quintairos, Prieto, Wood, & Boyer, P.A. 255 S. Orange Ave. Suite 900 Orlando, Fl. 32801 WWW.qpwblaw.com
Natalie A. Jackson Women’s Trial Group 538 E. Washington St, Orlando, FL www.wtgfirm.com
Terry Sanks Beusse, Wolter, Sanks, Mora & Maire, P.A. 390 N. Orange Ave, Ste 2500, Orlando, FL www.iplawfl.com
Paul C. Perkins, Jr. Paul & Perkins, P.A. 3117 Edgewater Dr. Orlando, FL www.orlandotriallaw.com Rhiannon Arnold Rogers The Arnold Law Group 124 E. Colonial Dr, Ste A, Orlando, FL www.thearnoldlawgroup.com
Thomas A. Zehnder King, Blackwell, Downs & Zehnder, P.A. 25 East Pine St, Orlando, FL www.kbdzlaw.com
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TR A IL B L A Z E R S
“Getting my job at the NBA was the easiest job I’ve gotten because it was predicated by years of pre-work.”
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Orlando Native Kevin Carr Reflects on HIS Career as an executive with the NBA By Ashley Cisneros
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courtesy of Kevin Carr
Big Dreams Fulfilled
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As a little boy in Orlando,
Kevin Carr used to run outside when it was time for the space shuttle to take off into the heavens. “I thought, ‘Those people dream big and their talents are taking them out of this world,’ ” he says. “Why can’t I?” That little boy grew up to be the Vice President of Community and Player Programs for the National Basketball Association (NBA.) How did he go from the suburbs to a plush office overlooking Madison Avenue in New York City? It all started with mom. “My mother was the first leader in my life, and she was very consistent and deliberate in setting expectations high for me,” Carr remembers. “She told me, ‘You fear God and you fear me.’” Having a mother who wouldn’t hesitate to drop in at school to make sure Carr was doing well, led him to be extremely disciplined. Carr attended Tangelo Park Elementary, Riverside Elementary and Lockhart Middle School before graduating from Apopka High School. Later, he earned his Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Public Administration and Policy with an emphasis Human Resources and Diversity Leadership from Florida State University. Following graduation, Carr served as Academic and Life Skills coordinator at FSU where he was an advisor for three different men’s & women’s athletic teams. Only a few short years later, Carr was named the Corporate Services Manager for INROADS of Central Florida, Inc. Next, Carr was hired as the Associate Director of Student-Athlete Support Services and Director of Life Skills at Michigan State University. Under his leadership, the Life Skills program was awarded the distinguished Division 1A Athletic Director’s “Program of Excellence Award.” “I have always believed that there is opportunity out there,” Carr says. “I enjoy making a difference and managing risk and reputation.” In 2001, he joined the NBA. “Getting my job at the NBA was the easiest job I’ve gotten because it was predicated by years of pre-work,” Carr says. Personal reputation is everything, and Carr’s hard work in developing new programs
and trying new things in previous positions furthered his personal brand. Carr had a friend who worked for the WBNA. One day she called and told him that there was a job at the NBA with his name on it, Three phone interviews later, Carr had a job offer. “It was a testament to the hard work that I had put in,” he says. “People knew about my work before they met me.” No sooner had Carr settled in New York City, when opportunity called again. The NBA needed someone to create a proposal to develop players. The position was in Greenville, South Carolina. Carr decided to pursue the position. “It’s all about taking risks and going the road less traveled,” says Carr, who lived in South Carolina for two years. During his first year there, he was promoted. One of Carr’s favorite aspects of working for the NBA is being able to participate in draft night. “I help the rookies know where to go, and welcome the families,” he says. “Draft night allows you to see the culmination of years of hard work, time and talent — like a cataclysmic explosion.” In addition, Carr loves being involved in NBA Cares, the league’s global community outreach initiative that addresses important social issues, as well as the NBA D-League, the NBA’s official minor league. “The NBA is not always about business; it’s about being a good partner and a responsible organization to those who believe in us,” he says. “We try to give as much as we get from our fans.” Success costs commitment to quality and constant improvement, Carr says. “My first two years in the NBA were tough,” he says. “I wasn’t a cut-throat type of executive, but being a nice guy in New York City wasn’t working for me.” Carr sought guidance from an executive coach, and it made all the difference. He credits his willingness to discipline himself as a key to his success. “It was a sacrifice to move from Florida to Michigan State, where I froze my butt off for four years, I was very comfortable there, then I moved to New York City for the NBA job. I had a house, and I left it for a small apartment,” he says. “You don’t get anywhere without making sacrifices.”
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MO N EY TA L K S
Securing Capital for Your Business
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BY Charles Wright, MBA
While many businesses struggle to maintain
during a recession, it is also a time when many new businesses are started. Whether a startup or an existing business, finding capital — especially in today’s economic environment — is often times a very difficult and sometimes disappointing venture. The purpose of this column is to discuss the various options of securing capital by answering questions submitted by readers surrounding the world of business finance.
Q. As a small business owner, what options are available to secure capital? It seems that the banks aren’t really lending money right now. Despite sitting on tons of cash, banking institutions have continued to tighten their lending belt. According to a recent report by the FDIC, outstanding loans to small businesses totaled $609 billion at the end of March, an 8.9 percent drop from a year earlier. A weakened economy filled with uncertainty, along with questionable asset quality and increased reserve requirements, are forcing financial institutions to hold on to their cash despite record low interest rates. So what is an entrepreneur to do? There are several options available for businesses at all stages, from Start-Up to 2nd Stage companies and beyond: Unsecured Line of Credit: This program requires a top notch credit profile. Credit scores < 700, utilization < 50% (outstanding balances vs. credit limits), minimal inquiries, and no delinquencies or collections. Funds can be used for any purpose, and in most cases the line does not report to the credit bureau. Account Receivables Financing (or Factoring): This type of financing allows a company to leverage their Account Receivables by selling them at a discount to a 3rd party
known as a “Factor”, in exchange for immediate cash. Depending on the size of the receivables, a company can either secure a credit line, or sell each invoice on an invoice by invoice basis. In this method of financing, the emphasis is on the value of the receivables and not the creditworthiness of the company. Purchase order and Contract Financing: Whether you are a start-up or a seasoned business, if you have a PO or Contract to deliver and/or perform a service or product, you can leverage these contracts to allow you to fulfill the order. PO and contract finance is short term transaction-based financing that allows companies to purchase or manufacture goods that have been presold. Funding amounts typically include up to 100% of the cost of goods sold, with an emphasis on the company’s ability to perform and the creditworthiness of the client’s end customers. Merchant Cash Advance: This type of financing is perfect for businesses that accept Visa and Mastercard. A line of credit is issued based on the average monthly Visa and Mastercard receipts. As this type of financing is not a loan, there are no fixed payments and the cash received is not reported to any credit agencies. The amount accessed is paid back by the lender holding back a small percentage of the businesses daily credit card receipts. There are lenders out there ready and willing to help fund your business – sometimes it takes a little creativity to figure out what assets are available to leverage and monetize. So if your creditworthy, carry an Accounts Receivables balance, have a Purchase Order or Contract (including Government), or your business accepts Visa and/or Mastercard the answer to your cash flow problems are only a phone call away.
Charles Wright is the Managing Principal of Freeman Commercial Lending (www.freemancommerciallending.com), a nationally recognized leader in commercial finance, offering a broad array of financial products for small, medium, and large size businesses. Send your financing questions to cwright@freemancommerciallending.com 58 RYSE MAGAZINE | S E P TE M BE R/ O CTO BE R 201 1
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P O L ITIC A L P O W E R
S p o tlight o n H eather F agan
The VOICE OF
The City
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By Ashley Cisneros
Strategy meetings in the morning, media inquiries mid-
day, news briefings in the afternoon. No day is exactly alike for Heather Fagan, press secretary for Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer. In addition to serving as official spokeswoman for Mayor Dyer, Fagan handles media responsibilities from a strategic perspective. “I look at issues from a policy level, and how issues will play out in the media,” she says. “I maximize communication efforts to reach constituents.” The path to the mayor’s office wasn’t easy. Fagan initially started as a Psychology major while a student at the University of Central Florida. “I sat in one of my first classes, and hated it,” Fagan recalls. At the suggestion of her academic advisor, Fagan sat in on a public relations class. It was love at first sight. Fagan began seeking out all of the internships she could. Within the first 10 minutes of her internship at Florida Hospital, Fagan found herself being ushered into heart surgery. “MSNBC named Florida Hospital ‘America’s Heart Hospital,’ and my first week was spent with television crews,” Fagan says. “It was pretty exciting.” Fagan worked hard to prove herself at her internship, and her boss noticed. When a colleague moved on, Fagan’s supervisors offered her the position. She worked part-time at the hospital while wrapping up her
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Frank Billingsley, Chief of Staff; Heather Fagan, Press Secretary; and Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer
PHOTO COURTESY OF Heather Fagan
Hearing the stories about businesses that were saved because of the Amway Center was especially wonderful.”
final semester at UCF. When she graduated, she began working full-time at Florida Hospital. “I was in charge of creating the employee newsletter, which was the size of a small community newspaper,” Fagan says. “I had great opportunities to learn about journalism and how to think like a reporter. I’d sit in my boss’ office and listen to her pitch stories to the media for hours — I wanted to soak it all in.”
—Heather Fagan
Before long, Fagan was promoted to a manager and began working on an initiative with the mayor’s office. Soon she learned of a career opening in the office. “I was just doing my job, but it led to a new opportunity,” she says. “You just never know who you’re going to be working with, or where your next opportunity will come from.” Fagan started as the public information officer and was in charge of handling
day-to-day media requests before getting promoted to press secretary. One of most memorable projects of her career thus far has been serving as point person for all activities and communication related to the opening of the Amway Center. “I was there when the center was approved by the city and county. To be there on opening day and see first-hand how the residents enjoyed it was incred-
ibly rewarding,” Fagan says. “Hearing the stories about businesses that were saved because of the Amway Center was especially wonderful.” Learning from Mayor Dyer is one of Fagan’s favorite parts of her job. “Mayor Dyer is very down to earth, smart, thoughtful and deliberate,” she says. “He really trusts the expertise of those he hires and sincerely takes their advice into consideration.”
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P O L ITIC A L P O W E R
Be a Leader, Get Involved
O
Let Your Vote Be Your Voice
! E T O V
By Rogue Gallart, President of The Central
Florida Disability Chamber of commerce
Often times we see many of our
young professionals self absorbed in work and advancement and forgetting the key essentials of politics and community engagement. This is a recipe that should always be included when rising to the ladder of success. Today’s young professionals are certain to become our community’s future leaders and with a 2012 election year almost upon us, we should encourage our young professionals to get more involved and make a difference by becoming active participants in the political, civic and social aspects of their community. As important as it is for young professionals to be engaged in their community it’s equally as important for us to know what’s going on around us in politics which affect the community. How does this affect you? Current examples are the redrawing of Florida’s political boundary lines with re-districting. Every 10 years, to reflect changes in population these lines change. Those districts tell the
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stories of their communities and you as a young professional could impact change. In some cases redistricting may indirectly affect the level of services the County provides residents depending on the Supervisorial District you reside in. That could be funding for an entrepreneurial endeavor that you may be seeking. Presently the Florida House is inviting Floridians to start the redistricting conversation. I can assure you that when candidates get in those final days of an election and start panicking over a few percentage points, it’s not young adults that they target for their get-out-thevote efforts. Election strategies are scientifically done. They are designed to put the candidates in contact with influential organizations that will help to bring home the prize — a vote. Young professionals have not shown that they are a reliable voting block, so in those final days of campaigns, targeted mail and phone calls pretty much go to everyone but.
That presents a problem for two reasons: First, the fact that young people don’t reliably vote means everyone else is making all of the leadership decisions for our community. Second, since that’s the case, and since re-election is without question an important goal of any elected official, those who vote drive the change to policy debate. This is because the voting block most concerned about the future doesn’t show up to the polls. Now, that’s not to say that all of us have to be political 24 hour clock watchers, reading campaign e-mails all day and glued all night to CNN. But paying attention to what’s going on in your community, and most specifically, finding your way into the voting booths each November, will have a great impact ensuring that decisions made in government reflect this generation’s needs to our community. I would say that no generation will ever have the demands on its time that you do. Investing time to build a career is time consuming. It can be a heavy push for members in the business community to “get involved.” But it’s important because our current young professionals are poised to become the caretakers of our community. Soon enough, that time will be upon you, and we need to have leaders ready to take the reins. There are many races where good grassroots efforts can make the difference. I encourage you to start engaging with community leaders and each year you vote makes it more certain you’ll show up on campaigns’ radar screens in the future.
P O WE R M O V E S
Jada H. Smith New Position: Chief Executive Officer Organization: Big Brothers Big Sisters Central Florida Responsibilities: Responsible for the oversight and management of Big Brothers Big Sisters Central Florida strategic mission to help children reach their greatest potential through professionally supported one-to-one mentoring relationships with measurable impact. Leads all facets of the organization, ultimately to increase awareness, support and delivery of programs throughout the community. Former Position: Chief Operating Officer, American Red Cross Mid Florida Region Community Involvement: Board Member, Professional Opportunities Program for Students; Volunteer, Junior Achievement; Member, Junior League; Leadership Orlando, Class 46; Member, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Orange County Alumnae Chapter; Member, Experience Christian Center
Karen N. Anderson New Position: Southern Regional Vice President Organization: National Urban League Young Professionals Responsibilities: The SRVP presents the position of the Southern Region on NULYP matters of business, assist in the development and establishment of new ULYP Chapters in the Southern Region, provide support and assistance to ULYP Chapters, direct the planning of NULYP activities for Regional Conferences of the NUL, coordinate the activities and the communication between ULYP Chapters within the Southern region. Former Position: President, Central Florida Urban League Young Professionals Community Involvement: Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.- Nu Iota Omega Chapter
Are you making power moves in your community? RYSE Magazine wants to hear about it. Email us at powermoves@rysemag.com
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B US IN E S S S E N S E
Taking
When I think of a business owner, my mind conjures up images of navy power suits, powder blue French cuff shirts with monogrammed cuff links, red ties in a perfectly knotted Half-Windsor and a matching pocket square, all behind a giant mahogany desk. But when I scheduled a meeting with Scott Thompson and David Meister, owners of the rapidly growing Stages Plus, I found the complete opposite. Relaxed blue jeans, simple cotton tee shirts, worn out baseball cap, leather sandals and a completely relaxed and serene expression. I never would have guessed that these two young men have each been business owners for over a decade. Having met initially to help each other with an overflow of deejay requests, the two eventually partnered up to establish the company in January of this year and have seen it grow exponentially.
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Center Stage By Didi Henry
Stages Plus, a company aptly named for being able to furnish its clients with more than just portable stages, started with a simple investment of $7. Both Thompson and Meister had been working in the entertainment industry for several years as deejays when an acquaintance of Thompson’s keyed him into a way to access potential clients. “We knew of a dance floor company here in town that said there was a niche in getting customers,” Thompson says, “and that was through the website.” With his background in internet marketing, he used the rules of simple economics to determine if venturing into a market completely foreign to them both was going to prove profitable. “Even before I met David, I bought orlandostagerental.com to see if people needed it,” he explained. He built the site with general contact information and pictures and waited to see what level of demand there was for portable stages. As calls came in, he amped up the site, making it more appealing to potential customers. Though, at the time, they didn’t have any stages to supply, he did find a healthy demand to fulfill. In the early stages of the company, the entrepreneurs built their capital by contracting out the first few large requests. That, coupled with an interest free business loan, Meister and Thompson were able to build their inventory substantially to include not only two large stages, but also dance floors, lighting, and audio equipment. “We had a seven month interest free period, so we set out to pay it off before then, and we did. Now we’re looking to reinvest,” Meister says. Surprisingly, despite the rapid growth of Stages Plus they have managed to keep the daily operation team small. “David is the head of the operations side of it and I handle all the contracts and calls,” Thompson says.
“
“A lot of people try to find something they want to do or are good at, while I concentrate more on providing something that people will need that’s not overly saturated.” —Scott Thompson
Along with two other core employees, this duo maintains a high level of involvement in every project they work on. They also have found an effective way to keep overhead costs low, in order to maximize profits. One of the most remarkable ways Stages Plus has been able to reduce costs is by not investing one cent in advertising. “We spend no money on marketing because of our website. We get so many leads every day. The phone is ringing off the hook,” says Thompson. Their business savvy has put them in the most ideal position any company could be in. Whereas most companies won’t see a profit for the first two years, on average, Stages Plus will be in the black with well over $20,000 in assets amassed by the end of their first year in operation. Thompson and Meister are seasoned entrepreneurs at their young ages and have a wealth of knowledge and understanding of the business world. When asked what he thought was the most important thing young aspiring business owners should know, Thompson uses the most basic economic model as a blueprint for success, “A lot of people try to find something they want to do or are good at, while I concentrate more on providing something that people will need that’s not overly saturated.” It’s a need that needs to be satisfied. If someone likes to work on computers, for example, you could work on them and become an IT professional. But there are a million people doing that. So maybe, try a different angle. Try internet marketing. Don’t start with what you really like to do when starting a business. Instead, find something people need.” It’s as simple as understanding how to supply a demand. For more information on Stages Plus, visit them at Orlando StageRental.com
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B US IN E S S S E N S E
Full-Time Employee,
Part-Time Entrepreneur By “Action” J. Jackson, Sr., Publisher
Statistics state that a large
percentage of the population has a desire to start their own business, yet only a small percentage ever step out and take the risk to actually do so. While the allure of becoming your own boss and creating your own destiny is certainly appealing, the thought of failing, losing everything you have worked so hard to build, and putting your family at risk is not. So what options are there for the individual who has an entrepreneurial dream but doesn’t want to risk losing the security of a steady paycheck and benefits to pursue it? For many who find themselves in this situation, becoming a part-time entrepreneur just might be the thing for you. A new self-started enterprise could rejuvenate you and give you an eventual opportunity to leave your job with minimal risks. There are many advantages, as well as disadvantages to starting your business on a part-time basis, so it is imperative that you way out all of your options.
Advantages of Part-Time Entrepreneurship Steady Income and Benefits Perhaps the most attractive part of a regular job is the steady income and
the benefits to include; insurance, vacation days, 401k (and/or pension), tuition reimbursement, professional training, etc. As a part-time entrepreneur, you will not have to give up any of these items. Less Risky Since your monthly expenses are not dependent on the income from your part-time venture, you can afford to make a few mistakes without worrying about not being able to pay your bills. You could try different things, or push your ideas to the limit, knowing that your regular income will be there in case things don’t work out according to plan. Pace Yourself The steady income from your job allows you to go as fast or as slowly as you want or need to go. You do not have the pressure of “I’ve got to make it” on your shoulders. Tax Benefits What you can write off, even as a part-time entrepreneur, is limitless. Utilizing a home office could possibly allow you to write of a percentage of your mortgage interest, property taxes, and utility expenses, among a myriad of other business expenses. Employing the services of a good
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Thinking Beyond the Cubicle
accountant is the key to insure you reap all the tax benefits that your part-time venture will offer.
Disadvantages of Part-Time Entrepreneurship
Finding the time Because the pressure is not there, your new enterprise may never get the attention it deserves. Part-time businesses often fall victim to other priorities, such as the job that pays the bills and family matters. Negatively Impact Your Job and Family Life Even the simplest endeavor takes a lot of time and resources. You could be stretched even thinner than you already are, and other aspects of your life may suffer. Never Grow Out of the Part-Time Status Your part-time business could turn into a nice source of extra income, but never fully replace your job. This could leave you with an unsatisfactory career and a side business that never takes off. Getting started on your parttime entrepreneurial dream While the process of starting a part time business is much the same as starting a full time one, there are a few items that a part timer must keep in mind while pursuing their 5 to 9 venture. 1. Is your idea viable? Is it something that can bring you a profit, or is it simply a hobby?
2. Develop a plan? Is this business going to stay a part-time venture or do you plan for it to eventually be a fulltime business? 3. Prepare a schedule for your part-time venture. Even on a part time basis, your business is going to take a lot of work. After working 40+ hours a week on your job, you may also find yourself working until the wee hours of the morning and even through the weekends on your business. You will have to prepare your family and significant other for this, but ultimately, the goal is to try and find a balance or you will struggle. 4. Manage growth – Be careful not to run the risk of taking on more business then you can handle. Your venture should be an effort to pursue your passion. Taking on too much business will cause a strain on your personal and professional life and could quickly turn your dream business into a stressful nightmare. Hold off on producing that television commercial that you expected to air during the Super Bowl. 5. Consistently invest a portion of your profits back into your business for growth. For example, if you are looking to become a fulltime photographer, a portion of the profits from your photo shoots should go into consistently upgrading your professional equipment and tools of the trade. 6. Be cautious of letting your customers know that your entrepreneurial venture is part-time. Depending
After working 40+ hours a week on your job, you may also find yourself working until the wee hours of the morning and even through the weekends on your business. on your industry, customers may view you as less credible and frown upon doing business with you if they feel you only do your business on the side. Don’t lie, but also, don’t volunteer that information. Let your service speak for itself. 7. Don’t be afraid of your voice mail. Nothing says unprofessional like a baby crying or kids playing in the background while you’re on a business call. If you are busy with family or personal activities, allow your business calls to go to voice mail until you are free to call back at a time that
will present a more professional image. The key is to call back in a reasonable amount of time. 8. Begin saving for your transition into full-time entrepreneurship. If all goes well, someday you may ultimately be forced to deal with the all important question, “Can I make it on my own?” In your evaluation, you may find that your business may be a whole lot more fun when you’re not depending on it as your primary income. On the other hand, once you quit your job, you may never look back.
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IT TA KE S A V I L L A G E
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Pizzazz! Getting Students Excited About Education BY Dr. Tricia Y. Travis, CEO of Celebrity Educator
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Back to School with
S istockphoto.com
Set off the fireworks because the new school year has begun. It is one of the most exciting times of the year. One of the best ways to return back to school is with “PIZZAZZ!” The Merriam-Webster online dictionary defines the word pizzazz as ‘the quality of being excited or attractive.’ Let us utilize the word pizzazz to spark more excitement in education. This article was written to entertain and inform you of what pizzazz looks like in a school and how it can be utilized to boost student achievement. What does pizzazz look like in a school? There are ways you can spot pizzazz in an educational setting. Look for motivational messages posted around the school such as “Glad You Are Here,” You Can Do It,” “Never Give Up,” and “The Power to Succeed Relies on You.” These motivational messages can ignite excitement within its readers. School officials can give out motivational messages printed on wrist bands as well. Those are a couple of great ways to recognize pizzazz. Let us look at another way a school is identified as having pizzazz. A school that has a warm and welcoming atmosphere is a place where students and school officials feel comfortable. Positive energy is created when school staff and students smile and greet everyone with excitement. This helps to maintain a positive working relationship among most people. If you happen to be visiting a school campus and someone greets you with a big smile and a hello, then respond back to him or her with a bigger smile and a cheery hello. Afterwards you can say, “Wow! This school has pizzazz!” An energetic response back is a great way to let the staff and students know that you appreciate their efforts to create a warm and welcoming school environment. Did you know that students who are involved in extra-curricular activities can be viewed as having pizzazz? Students who are involved in extra-curricular activities spark interest and excitement within their peers to participate as well, especially when they wear sports or club uniforms. Believe it or not, wearing extra-curricular activity uniforms help make the school appear to be fun and exciting. Whenever you see students involved in extra-curricular activities and wearing their cheerleading, football, ROTC or soccer uniform say to them, “You have PIZZAZZ!” We cannot forget to get the parents involved with schoolwide activities. They can show their pizzazz at school by wearing t-shirts that say, “Back to School with Pizzazz!” Parents can glitterize the word pizzazz on their t-shirts to make them look attractive. School officials and students can wear them too. The pizzazz shirts will never go out of style because they promote motivational excitement. Keep in mind that the pizzazz shirts can be worn during the first week of school, right after the winter holiday break and again right
after spring break. This special t-shirt initiative can be used as reminders to help students stay positive and achieve more at school. How can pizzazz boost student achievement? A great way to boost student achievement is ensure that schools have pizzazz. Schools that have pizzazz are full of excitement. The pizzazz magically leads students to reaching their highest learning potential. Schools with pizzazz boost student achievement by having up to date technology, highly effective teachers, extra-curricular activities and tutorial and enrichment programs. When students walk into a computer lab or a classroom there should be enough computers for each child. If this is not feasible, then use pizzazz to get the school officials and parents involved in helping to raise technology funds. Effective teachers who come to school with pizzazz do a great job at inspiring their students to learn. When you see or hear of a teacher helping students over achieve at school send him or her a card that says, “You have Pizzazz!” This gesture can encourage teachers to continue going the extra mile to help students succeed. Schools with extra-curricular programs
have pizzazz because most of those programs require that students keep their grades up in order to remain on the team or a part of a club. Therefore, school officials and parents can ensure that students get involved in at least one extra-curricular activity. Tutorial and enrichment programs are great assets to schools because they provide students with extra support to help them improve or advance in their school work. Schools with adequate technology for all students, effective teachers, extra-curricular activities, and tutorial and enrichment programs have the pizzazz they need to boost student achievement. All in all, let us use our most exciting voice to spread the good news about having pizzazz in a school. It is a dynamic way to help keep students excited about school and boost student achievement. Always remember the power of enthusiasm involves coming back to school with a positive mindset and being able to sustain it. If we can get students excited about coming to school, feeling a sense of belongingness and having the right educational tools and resources they need to succeed, then they will keep returning back to school with pizzazz.
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IT TA KE S A V I L L A G E
Central Florida Youth w h o A r e M a k ing A D i f f e r ence I n O u r C ommunity
Lalee Ibssa, a student at Trinity Preparatory School was recently named “Volunteer of the Year” by the Gliding Stars organization for her work teaching ice skating to children with mental, physical, and emotional disabilities. Lalee volunteers every Sunday teaching and won this award by showing hard work, dedication, humbleness, and great work with children. Lalee also made Gliding Stars history by being the first African-American to win this award and also the only volunteer to win this award in his or her first year of service to the organization. Her student, Antonio, has cerebral palsy.
Robertson Bassy is a student of New Image Youth Center, and a young leader in the Parramore community. In November of 2009, Bassy was the only youth chosen as a spokesperson for the Parramore Kidz Zone to attend the Harlem Kidzone Seminar in New York, New York, where he did a phenomenal job and represented the Parramore community very well. Robertson organized and participated in many community outreaches and has volunteered over 70 hours of community service in the last year just to give back to his community. He has proved himself to be a leader amongst his peers and a great example for our young students. Robertson has been accepted into Morehouse College in Atlanta, Georgia, to pursue a degree in Physics.
Are you a youth that’s on the RYSE? Visit RYSEMagazine.com and let us know why you are a next generation leader.
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Would like to extend a special Thank You to the following advertisers and contributors who made this issue possible. As they have supported us, we ask that you support them in their businesses. 106 Foto (www.106foto.com) ....................................................................... Page 39 All Tied Up Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Wear ................................................................................. Page21 Balanced Budget Consultants (www.balancedbudgetconsultants.com)......... Page 71 Boy Scouts Of America (www.cflscouting.org)............................................... Page 29 Central Florida Orthodontic Specialists (www.orlando4braces.com)............... Inside Back Cover Crawford Designs and Promotions (www.cdporlando.com)........................... Page 31 Daniel For Men (www.danielformen.net) ........................................................ Page 17 Florida Hospital Healthy 100 Kids (www.healthy100kids.org) ........................ Back Cover Fulmore Chiropractic (www.fulmorechiropractic.com) ................................... Page 10 Grassland Enterprises, Inc. (www.grasslandenterprises.com) ....................... Page 40 Hardaway Design Group (www.hardawaydesign.com) .................................. Page 1 Kids Beating Cancer (www.kidsbeatingcancer.com) ..................................... Page 31 NH Measures (www.nhmeasures.com) ......................................................... Page 19 O. Ross Enterprises, Inc. (www.thesmallbizengine.com) ............................... Page 37 Suit City (www.suitcityoforlando.com) ........................................................... Page 15 Studio Jones Graphic Design (www.StudioJonesDesign.com) ...................... Page 58 The Experience Christian Center (www.theexperiencecc.org) ........................ Page 13 The G-Wrap Company (www.ghairwrap.com) ............................................... Page 19 Trinity Preparatory School (www.trinityprep.org)............................................. Page 71
RYSE Magazine would like to welcome the following new advertisers: All Tied Up Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Wear, Boy Scouts of America, Florida Hospital Healthy 100, Grassland Enterprises Inc., Hardaway Design Group, Trinity Preparatory School, Florida Hospital Healthy 100 Kids
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