CHIC SAVANT MAGAZINE WINTER 2024

No New Year’s Resolutions! Please None!

by Sandra Wright, PhD As I am sitting here writing and thinking about all of the New Year's Resolution that have missed the mark with in my life, I have decided not to make not ONE more New Year's Resolution. By March, I would not have accomplished not one of them, nor did I even try. New Year's Resolutions put you on the track for failure and NO, NO, NO, I will not do that! Not this Year!

I'm taking it one day at a time and telling the UNIVERSE this is what I have in mind for my life in the NEW YEAR! Yes, you do have to reach out to the Universe and make your feelings known so that your words will not return to you void! So many times, I made resolutions but did not speak them into existence.

I speak my spiritual truths so that they can manifest instead of looking at a whole boatload of New Year's Resolutions.

As I begin this new year, I feel I have so much to offer the world and that is what I am going to do! I once heard that the rent that you pay for being here on earth is your service to others--how can I serve others within this universe? As I stated, I am taking it one day at a time and during this time I can hear a small voice telling me and directing me on my path to service. As I serve others, I know that I will be blessed as well...that's what HAPPENS! It's not about circumstance, it is about the voice of manifestation and victory.

I don't want to have the GRASSHOPPER effect...looking at the giants in the new land and feeling like I am a grasshopper! No, No, No--:I am the giant ready to SLAY at any time, any place, and anywhere in order for my truths to become a reality. I don't want my talents to be caged and imprisoned within me. No, No, No! CHIC SAVANT

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Speak what you want into existence--there is power in the word! No more New Year's Resolution, just powerful words that will not return to you void!

As always remember, Success is your Destiny as long as you F.O.C.U.S. in this New Year (Follow On Course Until Success).

Have a great year and prosperous forever!

Check out my blog: http://successisyourdestiny.blogspot.com/

Dr. Sandra Wright is the Editor-in-Chief of CHIC SAVANT Reach her at: info@sandracollinswright.com (404) 890-0028

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The Time Bending Blueprint: Outsmarting the 24-Hour Day

by Dr. Deborah Johnson-Blake The Time Management Diva

Another powerful tool is the Prioritization

February, recognized as National Time Management Month, offers a perfect opportunity

Matrix, such as the Eisenhower Matrix attributed to President Dwight Eisenhower.

for leaders to reevaluate their approach to time

This technique categorizes tasks based on

management. In an era where the pace of life

urgency and importance, enabling leaders

and work seems perpetually accelerated,

to focus on what truly matters.

mastering the art of time management is more

By distinguishing between urgent and

crucial than ever. Here are five innovative

important tasks, important but not urgent,

strategies leaders can adopt to effectively

urgent but not important, and neither can

navigate the constraints of a 24-hour day,

leaders streamline their workflow and

thereby enhancing productivity and work-life

delegate effectively.

balance.

Firstly, the concept of Segmented Focus

The third strategy involves Leveraging

Sessions can revolutionize the way we perceive

Technological Tools. In an age dominated

task execution. Leaders can achieve more in

by technology, using advanced tools and

less time by dividing the day into dedicated,

software for routine tasks can be a game-

undistracted periods of intense work. For

changer. From project management

instance, the Pomodoro Technique, developed

applications to AI-driven assistants,

by Francesco Cirillo, suggests 25-minute focus

technology can automate mundane tasks,

sessions followed by short breaks. This method

freeing up time for strategic thinking and

boosts productivity and helps maintain high

decision-making.

energy levels throughout the day.

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Mindful Leadership Practices is the fourth strategy. Integrating mindfulness into daily routines can significantly enhance mental clarity, decision-making, and stress management. Practices such as meditation, mindful breaks, and fostering a culture of open communication can lead to a more harmonious and productive work environment.

Lastly, Asynchronous Communication is a strategy that respects individual work patterns and minimizes disruptions. By shifting from the expectation of immediate responses to a more flexible communication approach, leaders can create an environment conducive to focused work.

In celebrating National Time Management Month, it is crucial to remember that effective time management is not about squeezing more tasks into our day; it is about working smarter, not harder. It is about making each moment count and aligning our daily activities with our broader goals and values.

.

As we embark on this time management journey, let us challenge ourselves to adopt these strategies, not just as temporary solutions but as long-term changes to our lifestyle and work culture. Let us commit to being more mindful, efficient, and balanced. Take the first step towards mastering your time this February, and witness the profound impact it can have on your personal and professional life.

Dr. DJ is the CEO of The Writing Pad, LLC, and creator of The Time Management Diva ® brand. Follow her on social @djohnsonblake and visit www.deborahjohnsonblake.com to learn more.

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Embrace Your Potential: A Soulful Journey

by Bernadette L. Floyd Unveiling the depths of your potential isn't just a journey; it's a voyage into self-awareness, resilience, and personal metamorphosis. Too often, we imprison our aspirations, clouded by self-doubt or societal pressures. Yet, within the labyrinth of our doubts lies an incredible reservoir of untapped abilities awaiting recognition and awakening. Join me on this immersive expedition, where we'll explore strategies to unearth your potential, conquer inner obstacles, and welcome growth opportunities.

1. Embracing Your Essence: A Dance of Self-Recognition

1.1 Embracing Your Uniqueness: Unveiling the Treasures Within

Let's pause and acknowledge the extraordinary facets we often overlook. We excel in recognizing the brilliance in others, but seldom do we grant ourselves the same privilege. Selfrecognition isn't vanity; it's a key to our personal evolution. By acknowledging and honoring our unique abilities, we grant ourselves permission to bask in our brilliance. It's akin to whispering to yourself, 'I am a marvel.' This acknowledgment becomes the spark igniting our confidence

and illuminating the untold potential within.

1.2 The Embrace of Self-Recognition: Nurturing Growth and Resilience

Self-recognition is the cornerstone of our journey, far beyond mere ego-stroking. It reveals our strengths and weaknesses, empowering informed decisions for our future. This realization becomes our guiding light, propelling us forward even in the face of adversity. We discover a

reservoir of resilience within, fueling our determination to surmount hurdles. Self-recognition, therefore, becomes our armor against life's trials.

Picture credit – www.soulfuljourney.com

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2. Confronting Shadows: Awakening the Dormant Self 2.1 Challenging Self-Doubt: A Quest for Truth The shadow of self-doubt lurks, whispering tales of inadequacy. It's time to challenge these deceptive narratives. Acknowledge that they're mere illusions, not testaments of truth.

Replace these whispers with affirmations. Remind yourself of past triumphs and relish your unique abilities. It might feel unusual at first, but gradually, these whispers will transmute, nourishing the seeds of your potential.

2.2 Embracing Uncertainty: Liberating Yourself from Self-Doubt's Shackles Self-doubt constrains dreams, suffocates endeavors, and obstructs our quest for potential.

We break free by interrogating these doubts. Ask, 'Why not me?' Challenge these limiting beliefs with evidence from past victories. Seek the company of those who believe in your essence. Embrace failure as a companion in the journey of growth. Embrace uncertainty, take the leap, and witness your own astonishing capabilities.

3. A Symphony of Growth: Orchestrating a Mindset of Expansion 3.1 Embracing Growth: Crafting the Tapestry of Self-Development

A growth mindset is the compass leading to untapped potentials and an expanded horizon. It's the belief that our abilities are crafted through dedication and perseverance. Failures cease to be roadblocks; they morph into steppingstones for enlightenment and evolution. A growth mindset not only encourages embracing challenges but also steers us away from our comfort zones, fostering personal evolution.

3.2 The Path of Self-Cultivation: Nurturing Potential and Self-Compassion To cultivate a growth mindset demands intention and practice. View challenges as gateways to growth rather than barriers. Embrace the journey of learning and progress, not fixating on flawlessness. Seek feedback for self-improvement. Surround yourself with inspirers and mentors. And above all, be gentle with yourself. Growth is an expedition; every stride is a triumph.

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4. Unveiling Strengths: Unraveling the Tapestry of Unique Abilities

5. Challenges: Gateways to Self-Discovery

4.1 Unveiling Untold Talents: The Discovery Within

5.1 Shifting Vistas: Challenges as Pathways

Our innate abilities, often obscured by self-

Instead of cowering in the face of

doubt and societal expectations, are waiting

challenges, perceive them as the architects

to be revealed. Engage in self-assessment to

of our growth. Their presence propels us

uncover these hidden treasures. What feels

beyond comfort zones, unveiling our innate

effortless? What steals your sense of time?

potential.

to Brilliance

These are clues guiding us towards recognizing our strengths. Seek input from

5.2 Navigating Obstacles: Strategies to

those familiar with you; their perspectives

Unearth Potential

offer fresh insights.

To navigate challenges, approach them with 4.2 Nurturing Potential: Honing and Polishing Skills

an optimistic outlook. Dismantle these challenges into manageable fragments.

Upon recognizing these strengths, it's time to

Celebrate each victory, seeking counsel

nurture and refine them. Seek opportunities

from mentors and peers. Every challenge is

for practice, delve into courses, and engage

an enigmatic doorway to self-realization and

mentors to refine these abilities. Embrace the

an avenue to embrace your latent potential.

discomfort of unexplored territories aligned with your strengths. Acknowledge that even

6. Crafting Destinies: Paving the Way to Success

the most proficient individuals tirelessly evolve. Recognizing potential isn't a solitary

6.1 The Art of Goal Setting: Anchoring Potential

endeavor; it's a quest unveiling a spectrum of abilities. By acknowledging your potential,

Clear goals serve as anchors in unveiling

challenging doubts, fostering a growth

potential. They lend direction and purpose,

mindset, and honing your skills, you'll unravel

steering us toward personal and professional

a cosmos of opportunities and reveal the

growth. Goals foster focus, motivation, and

extraordinary potential within yourself. So,

gratification upon achievement.

dare to recognize your potential and let its brilliance radiate!

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6.2 The Blueprint to Success: Charting a Path to Realizing Potential

8. Celebrating Milestones: Fuel for the Journey

Crafting a plan is paramount in navigating

8.1 Embrace Triumphs: Kindling the Flames of Motivation

the path to potential realization. Break lofty

goals into achievable milestones. Set

Celebrate milestones and achievements,

deadlines, prioritize tasks, and remain

regardless of their size. Acknowledge your

flexible. A well-designed roadmap fuels our

efforts and progress, instigating motivation

motivation and focus on the journey to

to propel you forward.

success.

8.2 Sustaining Passion: Strategies for Continuous Progress

7. The Circle of Support: Nurturing Growth Environments

To sustain motivation, reminisce on your

journey's progress. During waning moments,

7.1 Embrace Positive Influences: Drawing Inspiration

recall your purpose and the future you envision. Engage in activities that reignite

Surround yourself with those who inspire

your passion. Remember, motivation ebbs

and kindle your growth. Seek guidance from

and flows, but with the right strategies, you

their experiences and wisdom. Their

can persist, making continuous strides

influence enriches our journey towards

toward the realization of your potential.

realizing our potential. Shoutout to my Soultribe.

In conclusion, the expedition to recognize your potential transcends a mere journey;

7.2 Cultivating Networks: Encouragement in the Quest for Potential

it's a poetic revelation and a serenade to

Building a support network is imperative. Engage

challenges, triumph in the victories, and

with like-minded individuals who share your aspirations. Participate in communities offering

nurture an ecosystem that nurtures your latent capabilities

insights, feedback, and support during

challenging times. The fortification of a strong support system is vital to nurture potential and sustain growth.

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Empowered by a growth mindset, fortified by well-defined goals, and tethered to the belief in

your abilities, you possess the capacity to illuminate boundless prospects. Trust in the radiant tapestry of your being and continue unearthing the depths of your potential. The universe awaits the radiance you're destined to emanate.

Bernadette Floyd, the 'Divine Connector' at bernadette10k.com, is committed to bridging funding disparities in underserved communities. Raised by civil rights leaders, her life's mission is to empower, inform, and educate those seeking funding. Passionate about travel, forging connections, and MCU thrillers, she brings a warm and dedicated approach to creating equitable opportunities for all.

Connect with the Divine connector at 334625-8109 or reach out on Facebook DM located on Bernadette 10k.com

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I CAN”T…CAN I??

by Sandra Wright, PhD

Picture Credit -Kelly Exeter

It’s a new year…So why did I instinctively think “I can’t” without asking myself, “Can I?”

The ‘I can’t’ habit Another reason for many automatic “I can’t” is because it is easier than saying, "I don't want to do that." I am lazy. I don’t want to hurt her feelings or for her to be upset with me. “By saying ‘I can’t,’ we are pretending that we don't have another option. “If we were to say, ‘I don’t want to,’ we would be setting a powerful personal boundary, and that can be scary for many women who have been conditioned to be people pleasers.

What does ‘I can’t’ really mean?

Some people believe it means that you cannot do something or possibly that you mind is not set to do a particular thing.

Sometimes, “I can't” means “I am afraid” I don’t want to leave my comfort zone, which is why many people say, I can’t.

How many barriers have you put up because you are afraid? It is impossible to take that leap with I CAN’T.

Steps to breaking the ‘I can’t’ cycle: 1.

Fear and stress can often get in the way of trying something new or making a change because the idea of ‘I can’ seems impossible.

2.

What about that career change? A trip to a foreign country that you always wanted to take; wearing that beautiful gown after you have lost so much weight? Saying ‘I can’t’ is a choice we make because we are embarrassed or fear judgment or failure.

We think, who am I to do this at this age? when really, anything is possible if the desire is there.

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4.

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The first time you feel inclined to say I can’t, stop and ask yourself, “Why not?”

Reflect after asking yourself WHY NOT? Be honest with yourself and practice self-care without feeling guilty.

By pausing and honestly questioning yourself you can actually do things you didn’t thing were possible.

Say I can’t less frequently. You will realize it opens you up to opportunities.

It’s a chance to challenge your limits and grow as a person.

Say I CAN more often because it will lead to fewer regrets and make your life much happier.

A Fresh Start to

By Danielle Johnson I love the saying, “self-love is the best love”. It has been my personal mantra for the last couple of years along with a matching music play list. As we step into a new year and flow into the month of love, we are thinking about all the things that we want to accomplish in 2024; from weight loss, saving money, traveling, and many other things. Another important aspect of life that deserves much attention is self-love.

As people we naturally crave love and companionship. We want to know and feel that we are loved, especially by the people who are close to us. However, in order to fully receive the love, you deserve in all aspects, it is important that you fall in love with yourself.

Pouring into yourself will allow you to be clear minded and prepared to receive the same in return.

Before we dive into all the great benefits of starting the year off on loving yourself, let us first understand the meaning of self-love. Selflove is defined as, you accept yourself fully, treat yourself with kindness and respect, and nurture your growth and wellbeing. I personally like to say, “advocating for my own happiness”.

Having certainty of the things that make you smile, while also knowing and understanding your flaws, and the things that make you frown, but unapologetically embracing them as you strive to be better. According to Nesslabs.com, “the scientific term for self-love is self-positivity bias, which is defined as the way people rate themselves as possessing more positive personality traits and displaying more positive behaviors than the average population.” .

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There are so many amazing benefits to having self-love such as: • higher self esteem • lower anxiety • better rest/sleep • motivation • productivity • better mental health What I love the most about self-love is that it can and should look the way YOU want it to look. For some people that may look like; journaling and reading, weekly long bath soaks full of bubbles with candles and soft music playing in the background or going to the nail shop to indulge in a muchneeded mani-pedi adorned with foot massage to soothe away the weekly stresses of life. While others may view self-care as turning off their cell phone for a period of hours, having time away from the kiddos, or simply just saying “No” when something is asked of them.

Self-love is your time to be unapologetically selfish. Not in a disrespectful manner, but so that you are taking time to take care of you, so that you can be positively effective for others which includes our spouses, children, family, friends, and colleagues. If you are not good to you, you will be no good to others. With that being said there, are a few things to pay attention to when you are not actively participating in self-care.

You may find yourself feeling constantly exhausted, frustrated, moody, creating unhealthy eating habits, and lack of boundaries. These are signs that something is not okay, and you are not walking in the spirit that God intended for you.

I recommend taking some time to selfreflect at the top of year. Create a self-care plan for yourself towards making 2024 one of the best years of your life, by simply implementing a self-care routine. Think about all the things you like and enjoy; also think about the things you do not like. Work towards creating a positive mindset by speaking kindly to yourself, about yourself.

Verbally speak positive affirmations over yourself and create personal rituals, for example every morning and night I have skin care routine that I follow accompanied by aromatherapy via my humidifier and my self love play list. Once I’m done, I read the affirmations I created for myself and have posted on my bathroom mirror. This helps me get my day started on a positive note or in the same manner helps my body wind down and relax before bed so that I will have a restful night’s sleep. If you get stuck and need some inspiration, pull out your cell phone or computer and google, “examples of self-love” or “self-love ideas”.

picture credit: Lily Zeng

Try something new for Valentines this year, by not neglecting your loved ones, but by taking some time to take care of YOU and love on YOU! Being selfish is not a bad thing sometimes if it is done in the right spirit. Let 2024 be the year you fall so in love with yourself; so much so that loved ones and strangers alike will see the joy glow within you. Have a blessed and Happy New Year!

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-Danielle Johnson Digital Creator/Analyst Reference: Asghar, Andleeb. “The science of selflove: the evidence-based benefits of loving yourself” .NessLabs.2022. https://nesslabs.com/self-love

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Spotlight on Entrepreneurship – Vonda Thorpe Featuring Royal Accents, LLC

by Dr. Sandra Wright

Vonda Thorpe is an experienced business owner with a proven track record in Events Management. Her skills encompass Sales, Business Networking, Performing Arts, and Artist Development. She is the Co-Founder of Royal Accents LLC, a family-owned Event Management Company, alongside her husband Jerome Thorpe. Additionally, she is a devoted mother to Israel Thorpe and Christopher Roman and serves as the Minister of Music at Day Star Tabernacle Int’l.

"How did it all begin? Well, my deep love for music and the arts has always burned within me. One day, while chatting with a close friend, I learned about the challenges he was facing with his restaurant. It struck a chord in me, and I couldn't help but offer a couple of ideas to boost awareness for his establishment, such as hosting an open mic night—a concept I had enjoyed as an attendee but never imagined organizing myself.

Pooling our collective talents and connections, which included friends and family I had either served with in ministry or had admired for their skills at various events, we decided to embark on this venture. With great enthusiasm, we meticulously planned for what we would later fondly call 'Soulful Sounds,' an inspirational open mic night featuring a live band and a stellar lineup of performers. To our amazement, our modest promotion—just one flyer on the restaurant's door and word of mouth— resulted in a packed house.

As the evening drew to a close, our guests didn't bid farewell; instead, they joyfully exclaimed, 'See you next week!' That single night's event morphed into a monthly open mic night known as 'Raise the Praise,' which, over time, blossomed into a thriving family business, “Royal Accents."

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Some of their ongoing events include the Connected Conversations Business Networking Social, designed to foster strong business relationships, camaraderie, and accountability, which takes place on the 1st Friday of each month. They also host entertainment nights like Jazz and Jokes, Soulful Sounds, and Raise the Praise (open mic nights on steroids). Furthermore, Royal Accents books top jazz artists, singers, poets, musicians, and comedians for various events.

Vonda is also one of the Founders of the Annual Music & Arts on the Plaza and the creator of the 8th annual Vend & Vibe the Ultimate Shopping Experience. She pursued her Music studies at Georgia State University and gained extensive experience working on corporate, personal, and community events in Metro Atlanta.

She has also served as the Past Chair for PIE (Partners in Education) and currently serves on the Board. Vonda is the Vice Chair of DCEF (Douglas County Education Foundation), a Board member of Beyond the Front Porch since 2013, and a Board member of the Junior League of Douglas County.

She also serves on the Douglas CORE Board and is involved with JC Freedom House and Hope for the Journey as an Event Planner and Manager.

She is the President of the Douglas County Charter Chapter of ABWA from 2022 to the present and a member of the Wellstar Douglas Hospital Regional Board since 2023.

Vonda has received numerous awards, including the Douglas County Arts Visionary Award in 2019 for her contribution to the Annual Music & Arts on the Plaza Festival. She was also honored with the Outstanding Woman in Leadership Award by the National Women in Leadership Association in January 2019, and she received the Sam P Roberts Community Service Award in 2019. In 2021, Vonda was named the Excellent Woman in Business of Douglas County. She also received the ABWA 2020-2021 Business Associate Award, the ABWA 2020-2021 Presidents Award, the 20202021 Junior League Board of Directors Award, and was named the 2022-2023 and 2023=2024 DCCC ABWA Women of the Year.

Vonda is committed to enhancing her community through volunteerism and leveraging her skill sets to drive positive change. She embodies the qualities of a servant leader and a supportive businesswoman. Known for her integrity, kindness, and fun-loving nature, Vonda rarely encounters a stranger.

You can reach Vonda Thorpe at vonda@royalaccents.org or visit royalaccents.org. For inquiries, you can contact her at 678-310-9771.

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Elevate Your B2B Business: The Power of Co-Marketing on LinkedIn in 2024

by Jerrilynn B.Thomas

In the dynamic landscape of B2B marketing, the year 2024 offers unprecedented opportunities for savvy businesswomen to not just survive but thrive. As we navigate this digital era, the spotlight is on strategies that can propel businesses forward, and one approach stands out — co-marketing on LinkedIn. Here's a deep dive into why B2B women should leverage this powerful tool to elevate their businesses this year.

1. The LinkedIn Advantage

LinkedIn has evolved beyond a professional networking platform; it's a robust ecosystem where businesses can flourish. With 1 billion users, 44% of them being business and professional

women, it's "the" place where B2B is done. For B2B women, this platform is a goldmine. It's not just about individual efforts; it's about building a collaborative network that amplifies your reach.

Co-marketing on LinkedIn allows you to tap into a vast pool of professionals, share audiences, and forge connections that go beyond conventional networking.

2. Targeted Collaboration for Impactful Results

The essence of co-marketing lies in strategic collaboration. In 2024, B2B women can make waves by identifying and teaming up with businesses that complement their offerings. Imagine a conference organizer partnering with a speaker, a coach collaborating with an e-course creator, or a consultant aligning with a podcast host. These symbiotic relationships create a synergy that not only expands your audience but also adds value to your offerings.

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3. The Power of Diversity In the collaborative realm of LinkedIn, diversity is a key player. Partnering with businesses led by women from different industries brings a fresh perspective to your marketing approach. Diversity sparks creativity, fosters innovation, and, most importantly, appeals to a broader audience. As a B2B woman, your co-marketing endeavors can become a melting pot of ideas, resonating with clients across various sectors.

4. Breaking the Audience Barrier One common challenge for B2B women is breaking through the noise and reaching a wider audience.

Co-marketing on LinkedIn addresses this directly. By partnering with businesses that share your target demographic, you not only access their audience but also leverage the trust they've built. It's a strategic shortcut to making your business visible to those who genuinely need your services.

5. Amplifying Events and Launches Whether it's a conference, a webinar series, a book launch, or a new business program, co-marketing is a game-changer. LinkedIn's vast user base ensures that your event or launch is not just promoted to your followers but also to the followers of your co-marketing partner. The potential reach is

exponential. It's not just about filling seats; it's about creating a buzz, generating excitement, and ensuring that your endeavors become noteworthy in your industry.

6. Personalization and Authenticity In an era where authenticity is paramount, co-marketing on LinkedIn allows B2B women to bring a personalized touch to their endeavors. It's not a faceless corporation promoting an event; it's two or more passionate women coming together to share their expertise. This personal touch resonates with audiences, fostering a sense of trust and connection that goes beyond traditional marketing efforts.

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In the realm of B2B marketing, 2024 is a

7. Navigating the Digital Landscape with

canvas waiting to be painted with innovative

Confidence

strategies. Co-marketing on LinkedIn emerges as a brush that can add vibrant strokes to your

2024 presents a digital landscape that's

business masterpiece. As a B2B woman, don't

both vast and complex. Co-marketing on

just navigate the landscape; transform it.

LinkedIn equips B2B women with a

Embrace collaboration, build partnerships, and

digital compass. With the platform

let your business ascend to new heights in the

continually evolving, having a

collaborative dawn of 2024. The future is

collaborative network ensures that your

collaborative, and the time to elevate your B2B

business stays ahead of the curve. It's a

business is now.

dynamic strategy that adapts to the ever-

shifting terrain of online marketing.

8. Overcoming Budget Constraints

For many B2B women, budget constraints can be a limiting factor. Comarketing, however, is a cost-effective

strategy. It allows businesses to pool resources, share promotional costs, and achieve results that might be unattainable with individual efforts. It's a smart investment that maximizes impact while minimizing financial strain.

Jerrilynn B. Thomas is a LinkedIn collaborative marketing strategist who works with B2B female coaches and consultants. She assists them in cultivating a broader female audience for their exclusive offerings on LinkedIn through strategic co-marketing partnerships with their complementary female connections.

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Displaying Love Unlimited in 2024

By Jannie Edwards

This is the time that LOVE is exhibited in all types of ways …especially on Valentine’s Day. Love is an essential for human survival.

It can often feel so primal and mysterious that it may be hard for some of us to define.

There are unlimited types of ways that love is bestowed. Love of parents to their children, sibling love, friendship love, and most importantly romantic love.

Parents’ love toward their children starts on the day the pregnancy is acknowledged.

When the baby is born, there are unlimited reasons to show love for the one that brings such joy. So much pleasure is derived from holding a newborn baby while creating an everlasting bond. Babies are so precious and easy to love.

Sibling love is a wonderful thing when it is not rivalry. My siblings and friend relationships with their siblings can sometimes be complicated. However, there is no greater way that siblings show love than when there is an altercation outside of the group.

Siblings come together no matter the problem and stand together with a strong alliance.

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True friends share an everlasting love that surpasses the love of siblings sometimes. Friends are united because they truly enjoy each other’s company.

Friends give each other an opportunity to be oneself. Intimate secrets can be shared with friends. It is difficult to break a bond with friends that have been acquaintances for a number of years.

Friends can move away and go on with their lives and whenever that full circle is made, and they meet up again with no lapse in time. This love is everlasting with deep concentration into the soul.

Romantic love can last a lifetime between two people that fall in love. My special friends have been together for over 30 years. I first met this couple and did not see them again for over 20 years. They appear to be the same couple that I met so long ago. They move together as one.

This is love that can be observed from afar. Their eyes still follow each other as they move across the room. This is a true display of everlasting love. This is a model couple that reveals the essence of love throughout the years.

Forever love like that this special couple stimulate a joint investment in life and involves understanding and supporting each other’s values and goals. A great companionship will make a lifetime easier to manage throughout the struggles of youth and end up with a lifetime of love that can be seen by others.

February is the month to show unlimited love.

Everyone should follow our father’s commandment from above.

Brothers and Sisters were created to love one another.

Real love was extracted from the true love of a mother.

Understanding truth that love can move a mountain.

As in Proverbs, the words of love give life like a fountain.

Realize that love was meant to be easily share.

Yearning for that special person and letting them know you care.

Love was meant to be from the beginning of time because it is written that God is love. My friends have been led by God and His spirituality that had to be present to make their love last throughout the good and bad times. Love is unlimited in all aspects of life, and we need it to survive the test of time.

February is the month that invites us to love one another and show how much we love while celebrating Valentine’s Day.

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Elizabeth Moliter, MA, Principal Consultant www.artofworkconsulting.com 512.643.2710

This Journey: The Tongue

by Erisa Martin

I take this tongue for a walk everywhere I go and would you know the older I grow the more I am in tune with its intent.

As we embark on a new year, I decided to share this oldie, but goodie. There are many things we are in charge of managing including time, money, actions, reactions and

definitely our tongue. May we manage this powerful body part well in the year ahead.

A myriad of emotions may ignite my tongue to speak, but the tamer of the tongue, The Holy Spirit, will NEVER come to defeat. So instead of trying to hold the reins like walking my childhood dog TINY, a Great Dane, and putting on the facade like I’ve got it under control, as he drags me down the street, I will

Like wearing my mom’s high heels

simply request your help.

Like wearing her shirt as a dress Like trying to control this vocabulary enunciating vessel, What a sweet mess!

My tongue is like a scale which tips like a see saw. Ready to bring life to a person’s day or gloom. Life and death are in the power of the tongue and those who eat it love its fruit.

Sometimes it’s Too POWERFUL for me without my wisdom leash, The Holy Spirit, my help, I keep at bay!

And my unruly tongue runs rampant I’ve been known to wield this powerful tongue like a ginsu knife and walk away leaving the

Intentional about what I put in predetermines what I put out.

So I think!

So I speak!

So I take a look at the aftermath or join in with other body members for a celebration.

hearer maimed, unmerited accusations, jumping to conclusions with limited knowledge, misinterpretations or more of the like.

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The tongue can build bridges.

The tongue can tear down unnecessary walls!

The tongue can warn travelers behind you that there is danger up ahead.

Or simply speak for your tired body and encourage you to stay in bed.

Problems can be averted Potential enemies made friends All by allowing the tamer to do his job and guess what kind of situation it becomes…Yep…WIN WIN!

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DECLUTTERING YOUR WORLD

by Sandra Wright, PhD Excessive clutter can often be the cause of stress and anxiety in your life…whether is friendships, at home, or in your office Clutter can distract you, weigh you down and in general it invites chaos into your life.

Tackling the clutter can seem an insurmountable task if you don’t know where or how to start. By devoting a little of your time to getting rid of the clutter in your life and maintaining things relatively clutter-free, you’ll reap the rewards of pleasing living areas, reduced stress, and a more organized and productive existence. The best day to declutter is taking small steps, otherwise you will be overwhelmed.

Here are a few steps on how to declutter your life and enjoy a less stressful life: 1. Reduce your commitments Often times, our lives are too cluttered with all of the things that we need to do at home, work, school, in our religious or civic lives, with friends and family, with hobbies, and so on.

Look at each area of your life and write down all of your commitments. Seeing it all written down can be quite an eye-opening experience as well as overwhelming. From here, look at each one and decide whether it really brings you joy and value, and if it is worth the amount of time that you invest in it.

Learn to say no and decline offers.

2. Reconsider your routines Many of us do not have any set routines in our daily lives and simply tackle our obligations, chores and daily tasks haphazardly. Without structure, it can lead to chaotic days and a drop in productivity.

3. Declutter your friendships It may sound cruel but as you grow up, you’d realize some people are meant to stay in your life longer while others are not. While you should spend more time with positive people, people who help you grow and make you feel happy; you should get rid of toxic people who only drain your energy.

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How to Declutter Your Work Area If you want to be more productive and focused in your work, getting the clutter out of your work area is essential.

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Start with your desk Clear everything off the top of it and take everything out of the drawers. Assemble the items in piles on the floor. Clean and wipe down your desk and marvel at how pretty and clean it looks.

Sort through all of the “stuff” that was both in and on your desk. Toss out as much as possible a relatively small amount.

Once you’ve weeded things out, it’s time to sort through the remains: Set up a basic alphabetical filing system; label things, but the main thing you should do is designate a spot for every item you decided to keep and make sure that it stays there, or goes back there when you’re done using it.

Keep flat surfaces clear, and have an inbox for all incoming papers. When the papers come in, sort them each day – toss, delegate, do immediately, or file simply file all documents, but whatever you do, DO NOT KEEP THEM ON TOP OF YOUR DESK. All you want on the surface of your desk is your phone, computer, inbox, and maybe a special photo in addition to the documents you are working with at the moment.

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Declutter your computer Get rid of files and programs on your computer that you don’t need. Get rid of most or all of the icons on your desktop. They not only slow down your computer, but also create visual clutter. he digital world of today, there are so many different ways that information creeps into our lives.

Instead of letting information, even the kind that friends share on Facebook, take over your life, control how and when you receive it by limiting what you read.

How to Maintain Order over the LongTerm Once you’ve successfully decluttered, whether it be one area or all the areas mentioned above, clutter will inevitably begin to creep back into your life. You must be vigilant in weeding it out on a regular basis, or it will just take over your life again:

Declutter Your Home If your rooms are too cluttered, you’ll want to simplify them.

Start by clearing off anything that is on the floors.

Throw out or donate unused things.

After clearing the floor, move to flat surfaces such as countertops, shelves, tops of dressers, etc. Clear them as much as possible, and then move onto furniture.

Set up a system to keep clutter in check.

Examine the way that you do things and how things make their way into your life and consider whether you can put together a simple system for everything, from your laundry to work projects and email.

Tackle the closets Closets are a great place to store things that you don’t want out in the open and can easily become a place where you shove things just to keep them out of view.

Go through your closets – take everything out, clean it, and toss, donate as much as you can.

Decide a specific place to store anything you decide to keep. Keep only the things that you love and use frequently. As for your clothes, get rid of anything that you haven’t worn in six months.

Write down your systems step-by-step and try to follow them as best as you can. Follow your systems and you’ll keep the clutter minimized.

Don’t slack off.

It’s easy to put things off for another day, but it’ll save you headaches in the long-run if you deal with things immediately. Throw it out, donate it, or keep it and put it in a designated area.

Clean out your drawers Drawers are prime place for things to get shoved into.

Empty out your drawers, and sorting them by whether you’re keeping, tossing, or donating them.

The Bottom Line When you stay consistent and stick to these decluttering tips closely, you will find yourself less stressful and a lot happier as you’re surrounded by a lot less clutter.

Start today and start small. Begin with cleaning up stuff on your work area and then move on!

Dr. Sandra Wright is the Editor-in-Chief of FEMME SAVANT Reach her at: info@sandracollinswright.com (404) 890-0028

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What’s Happening in Travel, Diva?

by Toni Winston Unleashing the Magic: Exploring Cultural Festivals and Events Worldwide While Traveling

manifesting itself initially through the 'Entrudo', a popular festival where public games and lighthearted mockery would run wild in the streets. It is considered the biggest carnival in the world, with two million people per day on the streets.

As I travel the world, I’ve always been intrigued by cultural festivals and events because I wanted to see how others live and celebrate life. These extraordinary celebrations bring out the vibrant traditions, historical customs, and artistic expressions of communities across the globe. Travelers seeking immersive and memorable experiences can plan their trips around these incredible occasions. We will embark on a journey to explore some of the most captivating cultural festivals and events worldwide, delving into their origins, significance, and the best times to visit. From extraordinary parades to mesmerizing performances, let us unravel the magic of these seven top cultural gems.

Carnival of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil The Carnival of Rio de Janeiro, held annually in Brazil just before Lent, is an explosion of color, music, and dance that captivates millions of visitors. This exuberant festival highlights Brazil's rich culture and heritage through samba competitions, street parties, and vibrant parades. The main highlight is the Sambadrome Parade, where elaborate costumes, samba dancers, and dazzling floats mesmerize the audience. The festival commences in late February or early March providing an incredible atmosphere and unforgettable experiences for those in attendance. The origins of the Rio Carnival celebration dates back to the 16th and 17th centuries. Carnival was brought to Brazil by Portuguese colonizers between the 16th and 17th centuries

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Holi, India Holi, known as the Festival of Colors, is celebrated throughout India and Nepal and signifies the arrival of spring. It celebrates the eternal and divine love of the deities Radha and Krishna. Additionally, the day signifies the triumph of good over evil, as it commemorates the victory of Vishnu as Narasimha over Hiranyakashipu. This vibrant festival invites participants to engage in playful water and colored powder fights.

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The atmosphere is filled with laughter, music, dancing, and people wishing each other “Happy Holi.” Traditional sweets and drinks, such as gujiya (a sweet dumpling), bhang (a cannabis-infused beverage), and thandai (a cold milk-based drink) are also enjoyed during the festival. The cities of Mathura and Vrindavan hold some of the most renowned Holi festivities. With dates varying each year (usually in March), travelers can immerse themselves in the jubilant atmosphere while witnessing the fusion of traditions and camaraderie for over two days.

Oktoberfest, Germany Every year, Munich hosts the world's largest beer festival, Oktoberfest, attracting millions of beer enthusiasts across the globe. This iconic event typically begins in late September and runs for about two weeks, concluding in the first weekend of October.

The origins of Oktoberfest can be traced back to 1810 when it was first organized to celebrate the marriage of Crown Prince Ludwig and Princess Therese of SaxeHildburghausen. The festival was such a success that it was decided to repeat it the following year, and it gradually evolved into an annual event. Over time, it transformed from a wedding celebration into a beerfocused festival. It features numerous beer tents, live music, Bavarian cuisine, and exhilarating carnival rides. It offers a unique opportunity to dive into Bavarian culture, history, and hearty camaraderie. The centerpiece of Oktoberfest is set up in Theresienwiese, a large public space in Munich. The tents are sponsored by various breweries and can host thousands of people at once. Aside from the beer and food, Oktoberfest features various forms of entertainment. Live music bands play traditional Bavarian music, creating a festive atmosphere where people dance and sing along offering any attendee a unique and unforgettable experience.

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Oktoberfest, Germany

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Diwali, India Diwali, also known as Deepavali, the Festival of Lights, is one of the most significant and widely celebrated Hindu festivals in India.

This auspicious occasion symbolizes the victory of light over darkness and good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance.

Elaborate fireworks, beautifully lit clay lamps, and intricately designed rangolis adorn cities and homes. The cities of Jaipur and Varanasi are particularly renowned for their grandeur during Diwali celebrations, which typically span across late October and early November.

Day of the Dead (Dia de los Muertos), Mexico Celebrated on November first and second, Mexico's Day of the Dead is a mesmerizing blend of pre-Hispanic and Catholic traditions. Families honor and remember their departed loved ones with vibrant altars adorned with marigolds, candles, and their favorite foods. The belief behand the Day of the Dead is that during these two days, the spirits of deceased loved ones return to Earth to reunite with their families and enjoy the offerings prepared for them.

It is seen as a time for reunion, remembrance, and celebration. One of the most recognizable symbols of Dia de los Muertos is the calacas and calaveras, which are the skeleton and skull figures. These whimsical and colorful representations of death can be seen in various forms, such as sugars skulls and clay figurines. People paint their faces to resemble calaveras and wear vibrant traditional clothing during the celebrations. Food plays a significant role during Dia de los Muertos.

The festival is celebrated for five consecutive days with each day having its own significance: 1. Dhanteras: Marks the beginning of Diwali festivities and is dedicated to worshipping the goddess of wealth, Goddess Lakshmi 2. Naraka Chaturdashi, also known as Choti Diwali: Commemorates the defeat of the demon Narakasura by Lord Krishna and his wife Satyabhama.

3. Diwali: The main day of the festival where homes and public spaces are decorated with colorful lights, earthen lamps (diyas), and candles. The lights Symbolize the triumph of light over darkness.

1. Govardhan Puja: Celebrates Lord Krishna’s act of lifting the Govardhan Hill to protect villagers from heavy rainfall caused by Indra, the king of gods.

2. Bhai Dooj: The final day of Diwali is devoted to the brother-sister relationship. Sisers put a tilak (a mark) on their brothers’ foreheads expressing their love and prayers for their wellbeing. In return, brothers give gifts to their sisters and promise to protect and support them.

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Families prepare special dishes and sweets, such as pan de muerto (bread of the dead), sugar skulls, and tamales, to be included in the ofrendas. It is believed that the spirits of the deceased consume the essence of the food, while the living enjoy them after the celebration. In Oaxaca and Mexico City, tourists can witness colorful parades, street markets selling sugar skulls and traditional foods, as well as participate in the commemorative rituals.

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Chinese New Year, China Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival, is a monumental celebration observed by millions worldwide. This vibrant event marks the beginning of the lunar calendar year and symbolizes new beginnings, family reunions, and cultural traditions. In Hong Kong, Macau, and mainland China, visitors can experience colorful parades, dragon and lion dances, firework displays, and delicious traditional feasts. Dates for Chinese New Year vary but generally fall between late January and late February.

Rioja Wine Harvest Festival, Spain In the heart of Spain's wine region, the Rioja Wine Harvest Festival celebrates the harvest season with great enthusiasm. Taking place in the city of Logroño, this festival commences at the end of September with a traditional wine treading ceremony, followed by parades, music, street performances, and, of course, many opportunities to savor the region's renowned wines.

This usually coincides with the grape harvest and the production of Rioja wines. During this festival, the region’s vineyards come alive with the proclamation of the harvest by the Rioja Queen, who is selected annually through a competition. The streets are decorated with colorful banners, where locals and visitors gather to take part in the celebration. One of the highlights is participants dress in traditional attire and join to stomp on grape-filled barrels in a ceremonial manner. This activity dates back to the old winemaking traditions and is accompanied by music, dance, and cheers.

This festival combines the appreciation of quality wines, cultural activities, and the hospitality of the local community, offering a rich and immersive experience for wine lovers and festival-goers alike.

From the electrifying samba rhythms of Rio de Janeiro's Carnival to the explosion of colors during India's Holi Festival, and the enchanting celebrations of Day of the Dead in Mexico, the world's cultural festivals and events offer awe-inspiring experiences.

Immersing oneself in these enriching celebrations brings travelers closer to the heart and soul of each unique destination.

Whether you're seeking a visual feast, cultural immersion, or a chance to witness ancient traditions, these festivals provide remarkable opportunities to create lasting memories. Plan your journeys accordingly and ensure you experience the magic and joy of cultural festivals, leaving your heart forever captivated by the beauty of our diverse world.

If you need my assistance in planning your, please contact me where I can assist you with your jetsetter journeys, exploring the world, one destination at a time.

Toni Connect with me at: www.freedomtraveldiva.com https://www.facebook.com/freedomtraveldiva https://www.instagram.com/freedomtraveldiva

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Out With the old, In With the…Better!

by Elizabeth Moliter

“Your old work isn’t better than your new work. And your new work isn’t better than your old. To assume there was a golden period and you’re past it is only true if you accept that premise. Putting your best effort in at each moment, in each chapter, is all we can ever hope to accomplish.” – Rick Rubin, The Creative Act

As we embark on a new year, I have been contemplating the phrase “out with the old, in with the new.” What does “newness” really mean in the context of living our best, most productive and satisfying lives? This brings out the question, “Is new always better?”

Let’s dig a bit deeper into these questions and maybe ask a few more!

First, is there value in exploring another kind of “new” that actually treasures the old, the learned, the regretted, the mistaken, and reshapes them into a different “new” that is at once powerful and even proud of the story we’ve already lived? A new that is ready to move into the future with determination, expectation, and promise? Yes, from my perspective, there is.

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From a wide lens view, the story of our lives appears to be written as a nonfiction account of who we are as revealed by what we’ve done, with all the ebbs and flows of each passing year forming the narrative. As we’ve been told, we are the hero of our story, but we limit the progress we make when we decide that this must imply that there is an apex to our lives – a point at which the story’s climax plays out and we become our best selves, and then begin to decline or to leave the best part of our life story behind. Instead, why not mentally join the preceding years with the current and ensuing years in a way that can engage us to stimulate better stories, adventures, and improve our overall lives, the older we get.

I embarked on a career in the business world and started a folk-rock band on the side which gave (and still gives) me joy. My professional career took off and I ultimately landed a leadership role in a non-profit organization. I also went back to school to earn a Master’s Degree in my 50s! It’s never too late!

And, yet, with these successes, I still always saw myself as something of a failure because I had not achieved my original “dream.”

It took some time to work through this nagging regret, but I ultimately realized that who I have become – and am still becoming – because of those earlier challenges and even the failures, has made me the woman I am today. Not just stronger because of adversity, but also more authentic and empathetic. I can relate more directly to others' challenges because of my own.

These past, present, and future experiences are forming a “new”and BETTER person – not held back by the past or daunted by the future but liberated by it. They serve as a springboard for my songwriting, a guide for my work as a coach and mentor, and as an anchor in my relationships.

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I hope these ideas inspire you to enter the new year with gratitude and acceptance of the past, joy in the present, and expectation for the future!

If you have questions or would like to explore these ideas further, I can be reached at elizabeth@artofworkconsulting.com.

Elizabeth Moliter, MA, is a business consultant and coach, writer, and public speaker and is the Founder of Art of Work Consulting LLC. www.artofworkconsulting.com,

IT’S WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH

By Sandra Wright, PhD

March is Women’s History Month. Women have contributed and accomplished so much but have been overlooked and consequently omitted from mainstream culture. In March, as we salute so many awesome women can help fill that void.

As a newspaper writer, she took the pen name Nellie Bly. Although, Bly was a popular columnist she was often asked to write pieces that only addressed women.

As Harriet Beecher Stowe said, “Women are the real architects of society”.

Ruby Bridges (1954- ) Ruby Bridges birth in 1954 coincided with the US Supreme Court’s landmark ruling in Brown v. the Board of Education of Topeka Kansas, which ended racial segregation in public schools. Nonetheless, southern states continued to resist integration, and in 1959, Ruby attended a segregated New Orleans kindergarten. A year later, however, a federal court ordered Louisiana to desegregate. The school district created entrance exams for African American students to see whether they could compete academically at the all-white school. Ruby and five other students passed the exam.

We honor such women as the prominent historical figure, Harriet Tubman. There have been many discussions and documentaries on this woman.

Tubman was originally born Araminta Ross in Dorchester County, Maryland sometime in 1822.

After subsequently escaping to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania in her late twenties and frequenting a few other locations following that, she always remained true to her roots. Tubman is most recognizable for her acts of securing justice for many enslaved by freeing over 70 enslaved individuals as a conductor on the Underground Railroad, and a hefty 700 more at the Combahee River Raid as a Union spy.

Dolores Huerta (1930-) was greatly influenced by her mother’s community activism and compassionate treatment of workers. She also experienced extreme discrimination that helped shape her view of the world. A schoolteacher, prejudiced against Hispanics, accused Huerta of cheating because her papers were too well-written.

In 1945 at the end of World War II, white men brutally beat her brother for wearing a Zoot-Suit, a popular Latino fashion. These experiences as a child led her to want to help others experiencing the same discrimination. Huerta briefly taught school in the 1950s but seeing so many hungry farm children coming to school, she thought she could do more to help them by organizing farmers and farm workers.

Then there is Dr. Ellen Ochoa the first female Hispanic astronaut. Over the course of four NASA flights, she logged more than 970 hours in space. In 2012, Ochoa was named the 11th director of the Johnson Space Center making her the first Hispanic and the second woman to serve in this position. She has also been recognized with NASA’s Distinguished Service Medal, Exceptional Service Medal, and Outstanding Leadership Medal.

There are so many women architects in our society.

However, here are a few of these daring women who made their mark in society: Nellie Bly (1864-1922) In 1886, 22-year-old Nelly Bly (born Elizabeth Cochrane New York City from Pennsylvania. Bly had gotten her start as a journalist when she penned an open letter to the editor of the Pittsburgh Dispatch which pointed out the paper’s negative representation of women. The editor not only read Bly’s response, he printed her rebuttal, and offered Bly a job as columnist

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Dr. Sandra Wright is the Editor-in-Chief of CHIC SAVANT Reach her at: info@sandracollinswright.com (404) 890-0028

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