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Are You An Urban Trendsetter? selectively choose who and what to Urban Trendsetters……. align themselves with. They surround themselves with only the 1. Are willing to try out new things, highest quality people, programs, knowing that if it doesn't work out and places. as intended, failure is often cleverly disguised as a learning opportunity. 6. Tap into the collective brainpower of others by reading books, maga2. Believe and trust themselves first zines, and articles---anything that is Sharon S. Gordon, Founder / Publisher and foremost. They don't have to helpful for their own development. sharon@urbantrendsetters.com check with others to make decisions, they instinctively know what is right 7. Value the process of learning for I was asked one day what was my defini- for them and they go for it! learning's sake. They do not just tion of an Urban Trendsetters? Well learn for a specific end---to get a simply put an Urban Trendsetter is a 3. Have a well-developed life strate- certificate, degree, title, etc. They person that has the courage to do gy that includes a written life vision/ learn because it is fundamentally them! Our society has an idea of mission, purpose, and goals staterewarding for them. what “normal” is and Urban Trend- ment. setters are far from normal. As a 8. Are the teachers of the world, matter of fact this is a positive thing. 4. Get things done, through whatev- who share their knowledge with othWho really wants to be normal or er organizational/time management er people. They put themselves out ordinary when they can be so much system that works for them. They there so the rest of us can benefit, greater. make the most of each day and take and in exchange, their own learning I decided that I would take this op- action on important life tasks each grows and develops. portunity to share what I think are and everyday. the top 10 qualities of an Urban 5. Are able to discern (see clearly) 9. Do not like to stay the same, they Trendsetter. other's reasons and motives, so they love to grow and develop. To stay
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ahead of the game, they often reinvent themselves time and time again. 10. Not only know about specific subjects and topics, but also about what it means to be a human being at this time in our evolution. They are insatiably curious and want to know more about becoming bigger and brighter, as a result they naturally evolve. Now that you have the basic idea go and “have the courage to be your TRUE you! My favorite question...What would you do if you didn't care what anyone thinks? Who would you be? Go do and be!
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IN THIS ISSUE
Team UTS Publisher/CEO Sharon S. Gordon Editor-at-Large Lisa FreemanWilliamson V.P. Sales & Marketing Mykayla Bryant Contributing Writers Delois R. Wright Brenda Spencer
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GLOBAL NEWS Nigeria will be Africa's First Global Superpower If Nigeria plays its cards right, it could become Africa’s only global superpower. It already has the continent’s biggest economy, a huge military budget and a fair record of regional engagement. By 2040 it will also be the fourth largest country in the world after India, China and the United States. New research by the Institute for Security Studies (ISS) shows that out of Africa’s “Big Five” powerful countries – Nigeria, South Africa, Egypt, Algeria and Ethiopia – Nigeria is “the African country with by far the greatest capabilities” to play “In fact, Algeria is spending the a global role. most on its military, Ethiopia is the The choice of the Big Five is based major peacekeeper on the continent on the demographic, economic and and Egypt has the biggest diplomatmilitary size of these countries, as ic power,” says Cilliers. well as their historical role as reSouth Africa’s economy is not progional leaders, says the ISS. jected to grow nearly as much as the rest of Africa. South Africa is the only African member of Brics (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa) and the Population growths are much higher G20, but it is not expected to grow elsewhere on the continent, particuin power and influence internation- larly in Nigeria, where it is projected to grow from 170-million to 320ally and in Africa. Dr Jakkie Cilliers, executive director of the ISS million by 2040. and one of the co-authors of the report, says South Africans sometimes “South Africans don’t appreciate the have the misguided impression that huge size of Nigeria’s economy,” the country is a big military power says Cilliers. Nigeria’s gross domesand plays a major role in peacekeep- tic product (GDP) is projected to grow from $525-billion in 2014 to ing in Africa. $4.2-trillion by 2040. Spending on defence has, however, been drastically reduced, as shown Added to South Africa’s woes are in the recent defence review. It con- “legitimacy problems on the contitributes fewer peacekeepers to Unit- nent”. ed Nations missions than Ethiopia, Egypt and Nigeria. Sense that South Africa speaks more than listens
Algeria is also not living up to its potential given that it has by far the biggest military in Africa. Nigeria, hampered largely by domestic problems of governance and insecurity, is also under-performing. Nigeria’s military spending has, for example, increased dramatically, with an additional budget of $1billion approved last year, but this has all been earmarked for the fight against Boko Haram.
“South Africa can be heavy-handed when it comes to diplomacy and there is a sense that South Africa speaks more than it listens in Africa,” says Cilliers. The ISS concludes that of the Big Five, South Africa and Ethiopia are “punching above their weight”, while Nigeria and Algeria are “punching below” theirs. Egypt is punching above its weight internationally – it has a very strong voice in the Middle East – but low in Africa. The inclusion of Ethiopia in the Big Five is controversial because it is, according to the ISS, “an authoritarian and repressive state” and in 2014 had the 11th lowest GDP per capita in Africa. However, it is growing fast and has become “a poster child for development in Africa”. It hosts the headquarters of the African Union and is the largest African contributor to UN peace missions.
Even if this past weekend’s elections in Nigeria, dubbed the most important in its history, go off smoothly, it still doesn’t mean it has made the transition to a sophisticated and mature democracy, says Cilliers. “Nigeria is the only power with the potential to be globally significant but it does not have a coherent foreign policy and its massive security and governance issues are detracting from this potential,” he says. South Africa, on the other hand, has made this transition and has many attributes that make it a worthy representative of Africa on the world stage, says Cilliers. But, if the status quo prevails, South Africa will lose its place in pole position. Angola and Morocco are important players on the continent with huge economies, but Angola is a “purely resource-driven economy” with huge inequalities and lack of democracy, while Morocco is not a member of the AU.
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NEWS The Mount Vernon Avenue District Improvement Association Host the 3rd Annual King Lincoln District Columbus, OH- The Mount Vernon Avenue District Improvement Association (MVADIA) invites you to join in leading the community we love in honoring our veterans who have sacrificed for our country during the 3rdannual King | Lincoln District Memorial Parade. On Saturday, May 23rd 2015 at 1:00 p.m. The march will begin at Columbus State Community College and continue down Long St. and continue to Mt.Vernon Avenue to the King Arts Complex where we will commemorate men and women for their service in the U.S. Armed Forces. The goal is to have participants focus on a theme devoted to patriotism. Creatively incorporate the American flag and fashion apparel to display honor for those who have served our country past and present. We look forward to seeing you Saturday, May 23rd, 2015. If you would like to participate in the parade contact Al Edmondson at aledmondson@mvadia.org or call 614-(614) 253-1880
SPORTS
Jackie Robinson Day — Why This Baseball Legend is Still Being Celebrated 68 Years Nationwide — Wednesday, April 16, 2015, marks the 68th anniversary of Jackie Robinson breaking the Major League Baseball color barrier. In commemoration of him, the world celebrated “Jackie Robinson Day” and his former team, the Dodgers, announced they will erect a statue of him at their ballpark. During his time, Robinson was a six -time All-Star player. In 1947, he was the Major League Rookie of the Year, and in 1949, he was the National League MVP. That same year, he also won the league’s bat- The Legendary Jackie Robinson ting title. But his success came with quite a bit of racial bullying, and he world of opportunities that had been endured a lot. closed to so many AfricanExperts say that Jackie and his wife Americans simply because they were Black, but this took a lot of Rachel opened up a whole new
maintaining his composure. His legacy has been honored throughout the years, and his number 42 was even retired throughout the league back in 1997, with players already using the number grandfathered in. New York Yankees player Mariano Rivera was the last player to wear it in 2013.
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courage. Their family endured a lot of threats, verbal abuse, and sometimes even physical attacks. But Jackie was always commended for
Many agree that Robinson deserves the credit for Major League baseball’s improvements in diversity, but there is room for improvement. Currently, only 8.3 percent of all players are identified as African-American, according to Richard Lapchick’s Institute for Diversity and Ethics in Sport. That was a slight increase from 8.2 percent last year. 27 percent, however, are Hispanic!
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FAMILY TRENDS The Shocking Truth About Easter — What the Easter Bunny and Eggs Really Mean, and Why Many Choose Not To Celebrate Nationwide — Easter is a very popular annual holiday celebrated by millions around the world every April. It is generally celebrated on a Sunday to commemorate the resurrection of Jesus Christ. But it can also involve rabbits (bunnies), color -painted eggs, white baskets and sometimes actual activities such as an “Easter egg hunt” or pictures being taken with an Easter bunny mascot.
So why do some people refuse to celebrate this holiday? Some people, after finding out the true origin of Easter, decide that they don’t want to have anything to do with it. For example, although mostly cele-
brated by Christians, the word “Easter” does not even appear in the original manuscripts of the Bible. (Some translations, however, do incorrectly use the words “Passover” and “Easter” interchangeably.) And careful research shows that Easter is merely a tradition based on ancient fertility rites. According to the Encyclopædia Britannica , the name itself is linked to Astarte, the Phoenician fertility goddess.
egg hunt, according to Funk & Wagnalls Standard Dictionary of Folklore, Mythology and Legend, “is not mere child’s play, but the vestige of a fertility rite.” Some wonder what all of this has to do with Jesus Christ and his resurrection. The answer is nothing. And why do people (especially in the South) get all dressed up for Easter?
It’s normal to dress nicely for special occasions, but many actually put a lot of emphasis on buying super colorful Easter outfits and even extravagant Easter hats (like the ones in the picture above). This also shockingly has a link to ancient fertility rites. According to the book, The Giant Book of Superstitions, “it was considered discourteous and therefore bad luck to greet the Scandinavian goddess of Easter bunnies and eggs? Spring, or Eastre, in anything but That same encyclopedia reports that fresh garb.” rabbits are associated with Easter as symbols of fertility “handed down These may not be the reasons why from the ancient ceremonial and people celebrate Easter now (as symbolism of European and Middle many may argue), but these are the origins – how it all got started and Eastern pagan spring festivals.” why it continues on today. Even the eggs or the actual Easter
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YOUNG & TRENDY
THE ENVIRONMENT AND YOU Parents and teachers who want to help young people become more environmentally aware can take heart. There are a number of practical ways to encourage kids to protect the environment. To help, here are some tips from a book series that encourages young people to be socially responsible. A series of books about the socially responsible adventures of two young people also offers tips on how to inspire kids to protect the environment.
• Give children their own little container garden. This will allow them to take responsibility for planting and caring for their own
the “Jordan & Justine’s Weekend Adventures” series. The books fea• Provide children their own spe- ture two African-American youngcial tools. Put together a small gar- sters and a host of their multicultural den bag for them with a mini hoe or friends from India, China and South spade and garden gloves. This will America. The reoccurring themes of their adventures involve environmake them feel excited about garmental stewardship and social redening. sponsibility. • Start with seeds. Kids will learn All the books in the “Jordan & Jusmuch more by actually seeing the tine’s Weekend Adventures” series entire cycle from seed to plant to are available on Amazon, BN.com, fruit. You can start seeds indoors and then transplant the plants when iBooks and where books are sold. the weather warms up. Learn more at the website These and other ideas—in both Eng- www.jordangogreen.com. lish and Spanish—can be found in special garden.
SENIOR TRENDS
Tips On Selecting A Retirement Community Today’s boomers are retiring in record numbers and many are challenging a number of popular stereotypes about retirement and aging. For instance, according to the Federal Interagency Forum on AgingRelated Statistics, the percentage of active seniors has continuously increased since 1998, and many are seeing the benefits of their activity. A recent report published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine found that adults who lead an active lifestyle live up to 5.5 years longer than those who don’t. The desire to be more active as they age is also driving many changes in what boomers demand from retirement communities and the menu of amenities that those communities offer. To help boomers find a community
that’s a good fit for a retiree with a more active lifestyle, here are some tips from Equity LifeStyle Properties (ELS), a leading national operator of active-adult communities. • Consider unconventional sports, such as pickleball or Zumba, both of which are resident favorites at ELS’ ViewPoint community in Mesa. • Those looking for something more traditional should ask the property manager if the community offers sports such as tennis, golf or softball. Social Activities
50 percent and lack of social support • Good neighbors may be good for equates to the mortality risk of your health. A recent study published in the Journal of Epidemiolosmoking 15 cigarettes a day. gy & Community Health found that having good neighbors and feeling • When searching for a retirement community, look for a range of so- connected to others in the local comcial activities that will help you stay munity may help to curb your heart engaged and that align with your attack risk. interests. • Before moving in, talk with current community residents to get a feel for • Look for ways the community brings residents together. For exam- the “personality” of the community and how engaged its members are in ple, does it host community happy hours? Are there holiday parties and offerings and activities. potlucks? How do they create opportunities for residents to interact? By fully evaluating potential retirement communities, boomers can go Think outside the box. Many of a long way toward finding a comtoday’s retirement communities munity that supports an active and social lifestyle, both now and for offer unique social activities years to come. such as woodworking, silversmithing and jewelry making, and outdoor group adventures.
While the benefits of an active lifestyle are commonly known, the benefits of strong social connections are also valuable. A study published in PLoS Medicine found that social support increases survival by about Know Your Neighbors
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THE JOURNEY Bradshaw's 'Home' features all-star line-up: Robert Glasper, Marsha Ambrosius, Bilal, Black Thought of the Roots, Trombone Shorty, Tweet, Eric Roberson, Kenny Lattimore, Take 6, Kim Burrell, Najee, Will Downing determination and vision to bring it back. Jeff Bradshaw, a key player in Philadelphia’s influential neosoul scene is the man with such vision.
Once upon a time R&B was known for great live performances marked by passion, spontaneity and even
ter and The Uptown.
The musicians playing behind the singers were often the finest players from the realms of R&B jazz and gospel, who delivered intricate arrangements, electrifying solos and undeniable groove. In recent View Online Behind the times, such Scenes performancHERE es have been rare but the transcendence through the great soul hunger for that special sort of musirevues at such storied venues as The cal experience is still there and mayApollo Theater, The Howard Thea- be it just takes someone with great
As a boy in Philadelphia Bradshaw performed with brass bands on Broad Street, just a stone’s throw from the spot where Philadelphia¹s most prestigious performing arts center, The Kimmel Center, stands today; he dreamed: why not bring the crème-de-la-crème of singers and players to The Kimmel for a genre-crossing one-night-only musical event that would replicate the excitement of the classic R&B revues for this generation of fans?
years. Bradshaw’s Kimmel Center dream came to fruition on May 28, 2014 and the result was a sold-out success in front of a rapturous, wildly appreciative audience. “Home“ is released today on Shanachie Entertainment, enabling those who were not there to enjoy the magical experience.
“Over my 14 year career as a solo artist and sideman to the biggest in the biz,” Bradshaw relates, “I was always told: ‘I love your music but when I heard you live I really understand how special you are as an artist and performer.’ So I reached out to all my friends, who just happen to Since Bradshaw¹s trombone has pro- be great artists that I’m fans of and pelled horn-sections for everyone explained to them the trail-blazing from Jill Scott to Jay Z and Erykah journey I was preparing to embark Badu to Kirk Franklin, this was an on and they all wanted in. easy sell. After running the idea by Jay Whal, The respect accorded Jeff Bradshaw The Kimmel Center’s Creative Diby his peers is shown by the impres- rector, where I¹ve played many sive list of artists who wanted to be times in their ‘Sittin’ In’ series, he a part of the concert: Marsha Amloved the idea and we went to work brosius, Will Downing, Black on building this masterpiece.” NothThought of The Roots, Kim Burrell, ing was left to chance for BradTake 6, Najee, Bilal, Eric Roberson, shaw’s special concert. He assemTweet, Kenny Lattimore, Trombone bled a magnificent 20- piece band Shorty and Executive Producer and complete with backing singers and Grammy-winning pianist Robert horn section to back his stellar lineGlasper, whose recent “Black Raup of singers. Together Bradshaw dio” albums have been innovative and Glasper masterminded sophistifusions of jazz and R&B, becoming cated arrangements that would emsome of the biggest-selling jazz re- bellish the songs to their ultimate leases of the past decade–ironically potential. scoring big with a concept Jeff Bradshaw had been presenting for Continued on page 29
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THE JOURNEY –CONTINUED Bradshaw-Continued from page 10 “Home” delivers one highlight after “No one else could another. On the first single, “All have written and delivTime Love,” Eric Roberson and ered that amazing, Tweet trade off one another with touching song but my sexy, soulful vocals as Robert amazing friend MarGlasper plays a lush keyboard supsha,” Jeff says.”We did port. Bradshaw and New Orleans this song several years trombone phenom Trombone Shorty ago in the studio, but it trade incendiary solos on the funky wasn¹t ’til now that we “N. O. Groove.” Kim Burrell, who agreed that the world comes from the gospel world, is should hear this song nonetheless one of the finest jazz that she wrote on a tear singers of our time and she demon-soaked napkin.” strates that by taking flight in a 9minute dialogue with Bradshaw on Jeff Bradshaw was born in North “Love.” Philadelphia. His father was a min“Kim Burrell, the most ister so his formative musical expeinnovative voices on the riences were in church, where brass planet, touched down in bands were a staple. Jeff amazingly Philly and the Kimmel never took formal lessons. The first Center and pulled instrument he began playing was the things out of a Philly snare drum. Following that he began Neo-Soul classic that playing baritone horn and sousacan never be duplicated phone. He recalls one life-changing by anyone!” Jeff enday in high school when everyone thuses. “Our perforwas asked to stand in front of the mance together brought instrument they would like to play. tears to everyone with a Students crowded around the drums, pulse in that building.” guitars, saxophones, trumpets, per“Home“ also highlights the sublime cussion and woodwinds, but not one acapella jazz harmony singing of ten person was standing near the stack -time Grammy winners Take 6, the of trombones in the corner. He masterful playing of sax icon Najee choose to play trombone and beand vocal performances by Bilal and came determined to make the tromMarsha Ambrosius that are among bone hip, a cool instrument in maintheir best performances. stream music, not just jazz.
After graduation from high school, finances did not permit him to enroll in college so he took a variety of jobs, waiting and hoping for an opportunity to make his mark in music, an opportunity that did not come for seven long years. In 1994, Bradshaw began to meet musicians, singers and producers on the Philly scene he went on to become an architect of the neo-soul revolution along with Ahmir ‘?uestlove’ Thompson, Tariq ‘Black Thought’ Trotter of the Roots, James Poyser, Andre Harris, Vidal Davis, DJ Jazzy Jeff, King Britt, Ivan Barias, Carvin Haggins, and many others. These friendships led to Bradshaw recording with the likes of Erykah Badu, Jill Scott, Floetry, Darius Rucker, Michael Jackson, Earth Wind & Fire, The Roots, Musiq Soulchild and more. Then one night, when playing in a band led by trumpeter Jafar Barron, the leader’s absence afforded Bradshaw the opportunity to step forward and lead the hip-hop soul band. He was well on the way to achieving his goal of making the trombone ‘cool’ again. A few years later, Bradshaw was invited by Jill Scott to take part in the recording of her first album and to tour with her after its breakthrough release. This led to a meeting with Hidden Beach Recordings
CEO Steve McKeever, who afforded Jeff the opportunity to record his first album as a leader in 2003, “Bone Deep” His second album “Bone Apetit” followed in 2012. Bradshaw told Mr. McKeever that they could change people’s perception of what a lead instrument in popular music could be. That acclaimed first album led to busy years of touring, with other artists and on his own, as well as session work with a wide array of hip-hop, R & B and jazz artists. In 2013, Bradshaw released his second album, which was released simultaneously as both a single disc and a double CD set. Most recently one of Jeff Bradshaw’s original compositions was featured on the soundtrack of the James Brown biopic “Get on Up“ All of that was simply preparation for “Home,” Jeff Bradshaw¹s ultimate musical statement. “I hope that people find this album to be a breath of fresh air,” Bradshaw says. “And that every part of their musical appetite is satisfied. That’s why Robert and I designed the album this way and hand-picked every artist. It’s like opening a menu and seeing all your favorite foods.”
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FIT & TRENDY
FIRST LADY MICHELLE OBAMA AND EPICURIOUS HOST SECOND R
“The Healthy Lunchtime Challenge” Welcomes Children and Their Parents to Creat launched by the First Lady to solve the issue of childhood obesity, each recipe must adhere to the guidance that supports USDA’s MyPlate (at ChooseMyPlate.gov) to ensure that the criteria of a healthy meal are met. Entries must represent each of the food groups, either in one dish or as parts of a lunch meal, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins and low-fat dairy foods, with fruits and veggies making up roughly half the plate or recipe.
First Lady, Michelle Obama celebrating the Let’s Move Campaign’s 5th Anniversary
National With the overwhelming success of the inaugural Healthy Lunchtime Challenge & Kids' “State Dinner” in 2012, First Lady Michelle Obama is again teaming up with Epicurious, the U.S. Department of Education, and the Department of Agriculture to host a nationwide recipe challenge to promote healthy eating among America’s youth.
“Last year’s Kids State dinner was one of my favorite events we’ve ever done for Let’s Move! because it perfectly captured how young people, parents, community leaders and businesses can come together for innovative, healthy solutions,” said First Lady Michelle Obama. “Last year’s young chefs impressed and inspired me with their creativity, and I can’t wait to welcome a whole new
group to the White House this summer and taste their creations. So kids, let’s get cooking!” The second Healthy Lunchtime Challenge & Kids' “State Dinner” invites parents or guardians and their children, ages 8-12, to create and submit an original lunch recipe that is healthy, affordable, and tasty. In support of Let’s Move!,
All U.S. states and territories, including Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico, Guam, American Samoa, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and the Northern Mariana Islands, are invited to participate. Fifty-six children and their parent/guardian (one pair from each of the 50 states, plus the U.S. Territories, D.C., and Puerto Rico) will be flown to the nation’s capital where they will have the opportunity to attend a Kids’ “State Dinner” at the White House this summer, hosted by Mrs. Obama. A selection of the winning healthy recipes will be served. “In order to promote a healthier next generation of Americans, we need to encourage kids to make healthier choices now – which they can carry into adulthood,” said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. “USDA is thrilled to be part of the Healthy Lunchtime Challenge again this year because it inspires kids to use
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FIT & TRENDY
RECIPE CHALLENGE TO PROMOTE HEALTHY EATING NATIONWIDE
te Healthy Lunch Recipes for an Invite to a Kids’ “State Dinner” at the White House The winning recipes will be chosen by a panel of judges, including Tanya Steel, Let’s Move! Executive Director Sam Kass, USDA and U.S. Department of Education representatives, as well as a celebrity chef, to be named. At the conclusion of the Challenge, a free, downloadable and printable e-cookbook featuring the winning recipes, nutritional analysis, photos and drawings, will be available via LetsMove.gov, USDA.gov, Ed.gov and recipechallenge.epicurious.com. The White House Kids’ “State Dinner” is currently scheduled to take place in July or August 2013.
First Lady Michelle Obama on the Ellen Degenres show do in the Let’s Move Dance.
because it inspires kids to use USDA’s MyPlate to take a hands-on approach to building healthier meal times.”
Recipes can be submitted April 3 through May 12, online at recipechallenge.epicurious.com, or via
“We are thrilled to once again partner with Mrs. Obama, and to champion her Let’s Move! initiative, in an effort to raise awareness for the importance of healthy eating among “We know healthy kids are healthy kids,” said Tanya Steel, editor-inchief of Epicurious. "Through ‘The students, and healthy students are Healthy Lunchtime Challenge,’ we better able to engage in the classroom and excel academically,” said will, for the second year, create a call to action for kids, highlighting U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan. “If we can get our children the importance of healthy meals. This initiative will continue to make to eat healthier and exercise more, that’s a recipe for success. Kids are a positive impact on the way our children eat, and will reinforce that the best judges of what looks and meals, especially school lunches, tastes good, so we’re challenging them to create lunches that all their can be delicious and nutritious.” peers will enjoy.” Let’s Move Campaign in action!
mail at “The Healthy Lunchtime Challenge c/o Epicurious.com,” 1166 Avenue of the Americas, 15th Floor, New York, NY 10036. Winners will be notified at the end of June. For more information and contest rules visit recipechallenge.epicurious.com
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FIT & TRENDY
Morehouse School of Medicine Receives $1.2 Million Grant from United Health Foundation and Optum to Help Build Healthier Communities in Atlanta Grant will support Morehouse’s Patient Centered Medical Home and Neighborhood Project to improve health among Atlanta’s most vulnerable and underserved urban communities. Medical Home takes culturally relevant approach to coordinate care, helping patients manage chronic diseases and reduce emergency care visits, improving outcomes and reducing costs ATLANTA - Morehouse School of Medicine (MSM) has been awarded $1.2 million in grant funding and inkind support by United Health Foundation and Optum to help support its Patient Centered Medical Home and Neighborhood Project.
The program will work to improve health care delivery and outcomes, and decrease costs among MSM’s adult patients between 40 and 75 years old who are at high risk for disease or who are living with multiple complex conditions.
“This grant to Morehouse School of Medicine’s patient-centered medical home helps expand new approaches to care that reward quality over quantity.”
With the patient-centered medical home model, clinicians have access to information on all lab results, medical orders and health care visits across multiple venues to ensure comprehensive, coordinated care for patients in the right setting at the right time.
The Medical Home and Neighborhood Project provides an innovative primary-care delivery model and a series of community engagement programs to improve health in and around Atlanta’s East Point area, a largely African-American community with high rates of poverty and complex chronic diseases.
“We are pleased to receive support from United Health Foundation and Optum to help us expand our efforts Norman L. Wright, senior vice president of Optum and board member of United Health to improve the health of our comFoundation, speaks during a check presentation by United Health Foundation and Optum munity and help some of the most for a $1.2 million donation to Dr. Valerie Montgomery Rice (right), president, Morehouse School of Medicine, to support its Patient Centered Medical Home and Neighborhood Provulnerable individuals and families ject. The announcement was made during a community health fair hosted by Morehouse, here in Atlanta,” said Valerie MontUnited Health Foundation, Optum and UnitedHealthcare at the Comprehensive Family A patient-centered medical home Healthcare Center at Buggy Works in East Point. Also pictured: Dr. Reed Tuckson, manag- gomery Rice, M.D., president & better organizes care by centering ing director, Tuckson Health Connections, and UnitedHealthcare mascot Dr. Health E. Dean, Morehouse School of MediHound (Photo: Russell Kaye) care delivery with the primary care cine. “Morehouse’s deep roots in the provider, and then using health incommunity make us uniquely posiformation technology and improved Healthier Communities” program, Optum is providing $600,000 in tioned to address the health issues communication to help coordinate which provides critical resources to grant funds and in-kind support. affecting our patients, and we look the patients’ treatments among their nonprofit, community-based organiforward to expanding access to qualother care providers and others in zations across the country to imThe grants will help MSM create a ity, coordinated care thanks to the the health system, which can lead to prove communities’ health and well- patient-centered medical home at its foundation’s support.” higher quality and lower costs. Ex- being. United Health Foundation department of family medicine cliniperience shows this approach helps previously provided a planning cal site, the Comprehensive Family improve patients’ and health care grant of $200,000 to Morehouse Healthcare Center at Buggy Works providers’ experience with care. School of Medicine. To continue the in East Point. The project will coorwork begun with that grant, United dinate and enhance care through Continued On Page 21 The grant is part of United Health Health Foundation is providing an MSM’s cultural-engagement apFoundation’s “Helping Build additional grant of $400,000, and proach and strong community ties.
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FIT& TRENDY
Morehouse Continued From Page 17
The support from United Health Foundation and Optum comes at a critical time as African Americans in the Atlanta metro area are disproportionately affected by serious chronic diseases and often lack access to quality health care. In Atlanta’s Fulton and DeKalb counties alone, nearly 45,000 AfricanAmerican person-years of life are lost each year due to poor access to health care. Person-years of life is a measure of premature mortality that is an estimate of the years a person would have lived if he or she had not died prematurely.
Program is located within its Family Medicine clinical site, which provides 17,000 outpatient visits each year – mainly serving AfricanAmerican patients with multiple chronic diseases. The grant money and support from United Health Foundation and Optum will enable MSM to help these patients better manage their complex conditions, reduce emergency room visits and, as a result, improve community health and lower costs for individuals and the health system.
According to United Health Foundation’s America’s Health Rankings®, Nationwide, African Americans Georgia ranks 38th among all 50 have a higher rate compared to Cau- states in overall health. The state has casians of many chronic conditions, a high prevalence of costly chronic including hypertension, diabetes and conditions, including obesity, diabeobesity. MSM’s Patient Centered tes and heart disease. Medical Home and Neighborhood
“We are grateful to United Health Foundation and Optum for providing this support to Morehouse School of Medicine, which will help improve the lives of people who rely on these services and programs,” said State Rep. Calvin Smyre (DColumbus). “This partnership will enable MSM to expand its services and reach into underserved communities across Georgia.” “United Health Foundation and Optum are supporting Morehouse School of Medicine’s efforts to bring innovative approaches to care that help improve people’s health and quality of life, particularly in underserved areas,” said Norman L. Wright, senior vice president of Optum and United Health Foundation board member. “This grant to Morehouse School of Medicine’s patient-
centered medical home helps expand new approaches to care that reward quality over quantity.” MSM is dedicated to improving the health and well-being of individuals and communities; increasing the diversity of the health industry and scientific workforce; and addressing primary health care needs through programs in education and research service, with an emphasis on underserved urban and rural populations in Georgia and the nation. MSM has a long history of serving the African -American community and was the first medical school established at a historically black college and university in the 20th century. MSM is among the nation’s leading educators of primary care physicians and was recently recognized as the top institution among U.S. medical schools for its social mission
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Door To Empowerment
“Empowering people to empower themselves” Mission Statement: Door to Empowerment is a 501 c-3 community based organization with a human services commission to impact the lives of men, women and children. We provide a vision plan and cultivate a holistic environment that will have an impact on their life. There is a duty to serve. Life Skills Training Employment Research & Training GED Assistance Tax Preparation 1112 East Main Street Columbus, Ohio 43205
Computer Skills IEP Assistance for Parents Business Plan Assistance Financial Education
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BEAUTY & FASHION TRENDS
Amazing New High Heels Can Change Color With the Click of an App — Invented By a Black Engineer tomization gratification”. It’s great for women who may not be sure what color heels to wear or even women who want to change colors in between events. This amazing idea is the brainchild of display technology research scientist Wallen Mphepö, a Black European who lives in Lithuania. His company is a 7person start-up called iShüu Tech, and his technological Nationwide — There are smart phones, breakthroughs have been featured in several smart TVs, smart watches, and now smart publications including TechCrunch, The high heels. That’s what you call high heels Economist, and The New Scientist. He is a that can be controlled by an app. That’s very well-published engineering researcher, right, you can change the color of the new and some say he’ll be the world’s next bilVolvorii Timeless smart shoes with the display, a Bluetooth LE module with batlionaire. tery wireless charging, elegantly positioned simple click of a smartphone app! fastener accessory anchors both on the front His high-tech high heels are streamlined, Entrepreneur magazine calls it “instant cus- have an embedded flexible electronic paper and back of the shoe. The clean, elegant,
sturdy design brings gravitas, respect and formality in an unmistakable way. Whether you are a CEO at the apex of your industry or a prospective intern who got it as a graduation present going for your first interview in the corporate world, the Volvorii will carry you with grace. Entrepreneur magazine says the shoes are “digital chameleons for your fancy feet”. The shoes are not yet available for purchase, but you can pre-order a pair while it’s still in the development and fundraising stage. For more details, visit www.indiegogo.com/projects/volvoriitimeless
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TRENDY PALETTE
A ‘Berry’ Healthy Way To Help Your Heart 1 green onion, thinly sliced
1 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice
1 Tbsp. cilantro, cut into strips
6 salmon fillets (or fish of choice), skinless
1 tsp. fresh ginger, freshly grated 1 yellow pepper, diced small 3-4 Tbsp. seasoned rice wine vinegar 2 cups fresh California strawberries, hulled and diced small Sauce:
Strawberries can improve the flavor and nutrition of both sweet and savory dishes.
1 stick unsalted butter 1 clove garlic
1 Tbsp. honey 6. A good source of dietary fiber. A little heart-shaped fruit can be a big help to your heart. According to re2 Tbsp. soy sauce 7. Available year-round and easy to freeze. search, strawberries may play an important role in helping to reduce the risk 8. Grown by caring strawberry farmers who of heart disease. use sustainable farming practices.
“Strawberries are at the top of the list of foods I recommend for packing the most nutrition into everyday meals, especially when considering cardiovascular health,” said Sylvia Klinger, MS, RD, LDN. “It’s an easy sell with their versatility and naturally sweet taste.” Here are 12 more reasons to enjoy strawberries: 1. High in vitamin C (more per serving than an orange) and may boost immunity. 2. Considered a superfruit with loads of antioxidants and anthocyanins. 3. Versatile and can be added to both savory and sweet dishes. 4. Low in sugar, naturally sweet with only 45 calories per cup.
9. Loved by kids and ideal for snacks and lunches. 10. Ideal for adding appeal to summertime dishes and special occasions. 11. Grown to perfection in ideal growing conditions along California’s coast. 12. Globally loved and voted America’s favorite fruit.
Try this recipe for a tasty way to enjoy strawberries: Grilled Salmon with Strawberry Ginger Salsa Serves: 6 Salsa: Prepare at least one hour ahead.
5. A source of potassium to support healthy 1 English or seedless cucumber, fineblood pressure. ly chopped
Mix cucumbers, green onion, cilantro, ginger, yellow pepper and vinegar. Cover and chill at least one hour. Just before serving, add strawberries. In a small saucepan, melt butter with garlic over low heat. Stir in honey, soy sauce and lemon juice and cook 2 minutes; set aside. Prepare a charcoal grill; when ready, brush sauce on salmon pieces and place on a well-oiled fish-grilling rack. Place rack over coals about 4 inches
from fire and grill approximately 4 to 5 minutes on each side. Brush with the sauce again after turning and again when done. Transfer to warm platter and top with salsa.
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TRAVEL TRENDS
Five Ways The Millennials Are Changing Travel The Millennials are coming. Or rather, they are traveling. The United Nations estimates that 20 percent of all international tourists these days are young people. This translates to 200 million travelers.
tional timeshare owners have been, according to a study by the American Resort Development Association (ARDA).
tribute to the surge in their purchasing timeshares, which offers access to a condo or resort without the full investment of a second home. Through vacation exchange brands such as RCI, a timeshare purchase 2. They don’t visit destinations. can give travelers access to accomThey experience places. Younger modations all over the world, makYounger travelers are looking for— travelers are less interested in “the ing this type of investment all the and getting—new types of travel, traditional sun, sea and sand holimore enticing to younger generaand they’re making big changes. days” than previous generations were, according to the World Youth tions. Here’s how: Student and Educational Travel Confederation. Young travelers 4. They do their research. Before 1. They’re committed to travel. According to a survey published by want to immerse themselves in local making a purchase, nearly threeExpedia, those 30 and under report culture and live unique experiences. fourths of Millennials research the taking an average of 4.2 leisure trips They believe that life is too short to product online, according to The not go skydiving in New Zealand or Intelligence Group. They also like to a year, more than any other age try out a product before they purgroup. This has led some younger hike the Grand Canyon. chase it. According to ARDA, 42 travelers to purchase vacation ownership, or timeshare, an industry that 3. They don’t place as much value percent of new timeshare owners experienced the product firsthand by is seeing a surge in younger buyers. on ownership. Millennials also In fact, new timeshare owners are place more value on access than on renting through sites such as EndlessVacationRentals.com before nearly 10 years younger than tradi- whole ownership. This could con-
making the purchase. 5. They’re mobile. Naturally, the early adopters of mobile technology are some of its most prolific users. Younger groups are more likely to book and research their travel online and through mobile devices. Only 18 percent of those under 30 have not used a Smartphone for travel, according to an Expedia survey. The younger generation has unique characteristics and expectations that are changing the world of travel as they voyage far and often on their mission to experience as much of the world as possible.
Three Tips For Planning A Healthy Getaway Staying active and traveling throughout life, according to the U.S. Travel Association, can actually help you age healthier. To that end, here are three tips so you can plan a healthy vacation. 1. Make a commitment to get going. A change in surroundings can be a great first step in encouraging yourself to get active. When exploring a new destination, you may be eager to do more. Commit to a trip this year, whether it’s a short getaway or a big family vacation. Use an app to track your steps as you sightsee and build healthy fun into the itinerary, perhaps hiking or watersports. Make it a group experience by bringing
along friends and family. You’ll encourage each other to stay active and bond during the process.
Myrtle Beach or Charleston’s Islands in room sizes can also leave little space to accommodate in-home exercise rouSouth Carolina. tines. Explore all your options. There are Look for larger accommodations with 2. Find the right place and activities. many ways to get active, from beach Health-minded travel doesn’t mean yoga and golf to horseback riding and homelike amenities, such as vacation planning a trip you won’t enjoy. Focus mountain biking. If you want a goal to rental homes and condos. Many offer on what you like to do and the settings train for, some destinations host mara- multiple bedrooms, so you won’t wake thons and races; for instance, there’s the up the rest of the family with your that motivate you. Annual Steamboat Springs Marathon, morning stretches. Some even offer Half Marathon and 10K. You may even gyms for more involved workouts. If you prefer mountain views, visit one be able to take advantage of special Most vacation rentals also provide fully of the country’s scenic ranges, such as equipped kitchens. By stocking the the Great Smoky Mountains in Tennes- event lodging deals. kitchen with your own snacks and see. The national park there offers lots healthier meal options, you can avoid of trails and rewarding rest spots. 3. Research health-friendly lodging having to eat out multiple times a day. options. Following a healthy routine isn’t always easy on vacation. Frequent If you’d rather soak up the sun and sand, visit a popular beach spot, such as meals out and restaurant-sized portions can make it hard to eat well. Smaller
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DIVERSITY TRENDS
Scholarships Help Multicultural Women Close Diversity Gap as they Prepare for a Career in Healthcare Sixteen scholarships awarded by the American Heart Association’s Go Red For Women and Macy’s aim to support diversity among healthcare
DALLAS, TX — The American Heart Association’s Go Red For Women and Macy’s are once again set to award 16 scholarships of $2,500 each to help increase the number of diverse healthcare professionals, in an effort to help improve culturally-sensitive, patient-centered care. The Go Red™ Multicultural Scholarships are part of Macy’s Multicultural Fund, which was created in 2009 to increase diversity in the medical field. Macy’s is the founding national sponsor of the association’s Go Red For Women® and Go Red Por Tu Corazón. “Macy’s long-standing commitment to diversity extends to helping improve the lives and health of the people in the communities that we serve,” said William Hawthorne, Macy’s, Inc. senior-vice president Diversity Strategies. “The recruitment and empowerment of diverse women in the healthcare field is an important endeavor that Macy’s is proud to support through the Go Red Multicultural Scholarship Fund. This investment in their future will make a tangible and immediate impact when these diverse professionals begin their healthcare careers.” The scholarship program promotes greater inclusion of multicultural women in medical, nursing and al-
lied health studies to better meet the up 17 percent • Kennethea Wilson: Public Health, cultural needs of racially diverse • Minorities represent nearly 37 per- Mercyhurst University patients. cent of the U.S. population in total • Nakia Best: Nursing-Advanced Degree, The University of North “Health care industry jobs are gener- Meanwhile, census demographics Carolina at Chapel Hill ally recession-proof, are available in indicate that minority population • Marie Erobu: Nutrition and Dievirtually all community settings, and growth is expected to increase in tetics, The University of Southern are personally and professionally relation to Caucasians in the coming Mississippi satisfying,” said Eduardo Sanchez, years. • Brooke Hagerott: Sports Medichief medical officer for prevention, cine, Western High School American Heart Association. “Minorities should pursue education • Portia Johnson: Healthcare ad“Minorities are underrepresented in in the STEM field and careers in ministration, Pfeiffer University many areas of the healthcare sector health care. The chance to make a • Lauren Galvan: Mental Health – as physicians, nurses, administra- difference is very real and reachaand Healing, Brown University tors and researchers, to list a few – ble,” said Sanchez. • Santanna Small: Nursingand there is a growing belief that Advanced Degree, The University increasing diversity in the health Numerous ethnic groups — includ- of Alabama at Birmingham care work force may help reduce ing African-Americans and Hispan- • Auriel August: General Medicine, health disparities among minority ics — are at higher risk for heart dis- Dartmouth Medical School communities.” ease. Therefore, breaking the cultur- • Olivia Morris: Nursing, Universial and language barriers among pa- ty of Texas at Arlington The number of minority medical tients and healthcare providers can • Melissa Fann: Public Health/ school graduates is increasing stead- lead to better health care. Health Law, University of Pittsily, according to the Association of burgh Graduate School of Public American Medical Colleges. Among “Throughout my 20-year career in Health 18,078 medical school graduates in healthcare, I’ve learned that having • Mayra Martinez: Nursing, San 2014, 1,052 were African-American, a cultural connection between paJose State University 928 Hispanic or Latino and 3,701 tients and healthcare providers im- • Andrea Santos: NursingAsian. pacts the provider-patient dynamic,” Advanced Degree, University of said Eva Gomez, MSN RN-BC CPN California, San Francisco However, the numbers are low com- and scholarship judge. “The way in • Clarissa Lavaki: Nursing, Abilene pared with the population at large. which healthcare providers, who Christian University For example, according to the 2010 look and sound like their patients, • Emily Mora: Medicine, Lehman Bureau of Labor Statistics and US connect with them makes a positive College Census Bureau: impact on how patients and families • Karen Torres: Nursing, Riverside respond, consult and accept City College School of Nursing • Only 5.4 percent of Africanhealthcare guidance and care.” • Jasmine Perkins: Nursing, American and 3.6 percent of HisLonestar College Tomball panic nurses in the nation are regis- Following are the 2015 scholarship tered nurses recipients, their chosen field of For more information, visit GoRed• In contrast, African-Americans are study and college: ForWomen.org. 13 percent of the nation’s population, and Hispanics or Latinos make
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ECONOMIC TRENDS
Creating Conscious Black Millionaires By James Clingman
Every rational person knows that at some point, everything we do to challenge injustice and to obtain the economic and political reciprocity we seek and deserve, will require money. Look at the amount of money spent on travel and accommodations to attend all the marches and demonstrations of the recent past. It would have been better spent on legal battles in the courts and placing initiatives on local ballots across the nation. Jim Clingman, founder of the Greater Cincinnati African American Chamber of Commerce, is the nation’s most prolific writer on economic empowerment for Black people. He can be reached through his website, blackonomics.com.
Black folks have the ability to create our own conscious millionaires. We have certainly done it for others for a long time now. Conscious Black millionaires, by definition, would most assuredly use some of their money to assist the Black collective; conscious Black millionaires would not hesitate to use their resources to help empower our people; conscious Black millionaires would not be afraid to espouse the principles of economic empowerment and then use their money to support it. This is not a pipedream, folks. It can, should, and must be done. To make real progress, we must move beyond rallies, speeches, protests, philosophy, pontification, intellectual rhetoric without commensurate action, and mere symbolism without real substance.
Every convention cannot do that, but if we create conscious Black millionaires, some of them would do what the Founder of Compro Tax, Jackie Mayfield, did in Beaumont, Texas. He and Brother Yusef Muhammad built their own convention center. They are, indeed, conscious Black millionaires and, like others that I know, they are not only taking care of their families, they are also doing a great deal to help others, via business opportunities and philanthropy. Many are unaware that they Who should fund the initiatives we helped Maggie and John Anderson take on to deal with inequities and in their efforts to get the Empowerment Experiment off the ground. No unfairness against Blacks? Who should benefit from the dollars we fanfare, just quietly and humbly spend to accomplish our goals? As paying it forward, the way conscious Black people do. Is Compro Ken Bridges would say, “That be Tax preparing your return this year, us, y’all.” or is your money going to one of The revolution will not be televised, those companies that do nothing for Black folks in return? but it must be financed, and we should benefit economically from our expenditures and activities asso- Imagine the progress we would make by creating millionaires like ciated with our fight for freedom. Currently, our dollars are benefiting Jackie and Yusef. The good news is that we can do it merely by putting everyone else as we run for freeour financial support behind the efdom, as we protest, as we demonforts of a conscious brother or sister strate, and as we conduct our conventions and other meetings around who have demonstrated a willingthe country. I recall how proud I was ness to sacrifice and walk the walk when it comes to the overall emwhen I attended the Bring Back Black meeting, in 2007 at the Black- powerment of Black people. owned and operated Dudley convention complex in Kernersville, N.C.; Creating conscious Black milliona Black caterer prepared our food, aires is one of the objectives of the and everything else that could be One Million Conscious Black Votdone with Black vendors was done. ers and Contributors Campaign. We It was the same at our MATAH con- know that simply by issuing a call for our members to purchase one ferences from1998-2002. pint of Ice Supreme from Ashiki
Taylor’s company we would have a conscious millionaire. The same by buying one T-shirt from a Black company, one book from Rosie Milligan, one pound of Nefertiti Coffee from Roger Madison’s Izania marketplace, one product from Keidi Awadu or Bob Law’s Namaskar Health Foods, or even a couple of rolls of toilet tissue from Freedom Paper Company. C’mon y’all; this is not difficult. Those folks will use their resources to assist us in our fight for empowerment. They will do it because their consciousness will allow them to do no less. Conscious brothers and sisters consider it their “reasonable” service to support one another, to contribute to one another’s causes, and to let their actions speak louder than their words. We have created a lot White millionaires by buying their products. Don’t you think we should be able to look at their work and see a reciprocal benefit to Black folks? There should be some collective gain. Have they given us a return on our investment? Or, have they and their friends and families been the only ones to gain? Stop supporting shysters, hustlers, and hucksters. Let’s use more of our money to create “conscious” Black millionaires. Imagine the possibilities. Go to www.iamoneofthemillion.com, sign up, and let’s get started.
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BUSINESS 20TH ANNUAL BLACK ENTERPRISE ENTREPRENEURS SUMMIT “Where Innovation & Capital Meet” Conference Headline Speaker Steve Harvey join Quincy Jones and Clarence Avant, both to be honored in Atlanta, GA May 13–16
Legendary Music Producer Quincy Jones trepreneur Clarence Avant, at the be 100s Gala on Friday, May 15.This award recognizes the outstanding achievement of an individual who T.V. and Radio Personality Steve Harvey has had broad and positive impact on his or her industry as well as the (New York)—Where Innovation Award-winning television host, and community at large, while serving and Capital Meet. renowned radio personality, is con- as a champion of entrepreneurship firmed as one of the Summit’s key- and business growth, employment JoinBLACK ENTERPRISEat the note speakers at the 2015 Entrepre- opportunities, and wealth creation for African Americans. 2015Entrepreneurs Summit host- neurs Summit. ed by Nationwide on Wednesday, May 13 through Saturday, May 16, An annual highlight of the Summit Celebrating more than 60 years of performing and music industry inat the Hyatt Regency Atlanta, with a is the presentation of the nation’s volvement, Jones’s creative magic powerhouse lineup of some of the top awards for African American nation’s most accomplished and cel- business achievement and communi- has spanned more than six decades, beginning with the music of the post ebrated entrepreneurs and motivaty involvement. The Black Entertional speakers. prise Trailblazer Award will be pre- -swing era and continuing through sented to legendary record producer, today’s high-technology age. An Steve Harvey, No. 1 New York musician, and humanitarian, Quincy impresario in the broadest and most Times best-selling author, Emmy Jones; and music executive and en- creative sense of the word, Jones’s
career encompasses the roles of composer, record producer, artist, film producer, arranger, conductor, instrumentalist, TV producer, record company executive, magazine founder, multimedia entrepreneur and humanitarian. As a master inventor of musical hybrids, he has shuffled pop, soul, hiphop, jazz, classical, African and Brazilian music into many dazzling fusions, traversing virtually every medium, including records, live performance, movies, and television. As producer and conductor of the historic “We Are The World” recording (one of the best-selling singles of all time) and Michael Jackson’s multiplatinum solo albums, Continued on Page 7
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BUSINESS TH
THE 20 Off The Wall, Bad, and Thriller (the best-selling album of all time, with more than 50 million copies sold), Jones stands as one of the most successful and admired creative artist/ executives in the entertainment world.
ANNUAL BLACK ENTERPRISE ENTREPRENEURS SUMMIT
an honorary doctorate from Morehouse College, and the Thurgood Marshall Lifetime Achievement Award. The 2015Black Enterprise Entrepreneurs Summit boasts highpowered sessions on critical business topics such as Attracting Angel Investors, Accelerating Your Tech Startup, The Art of Raising Money, It’s Called Show BUSINESS, and Selling Your Ideas and Building Consumer Brands. Confirmed speakers include:
Entertainment Industry Executive Clarence Avant
Avant was the chairman of Motown Records and board member of PolyGram. A renowned entertainment industry executive known for his keen business sense and unique deal -making skills, Avant is regarded in the highest esteem and is arguably one of the most influential African Americans in entertainment business history. He has worked with industry greats, such as Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, Antonio “L.A.” Reid, Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds, and veteran music executive Doug Morris, but his scope extends beyond the music industry to people such as Presidents Bill Clinton and Jimmy Carter, black enterprise Publisher Earl Graves, Oprah Winfrey, and BET Founder Robert Johnson. He serves as a member of the Advisory Board of Network Foundation Technologies L.L.C. Among the many honors he has received are the Heroes Award from the Los Angeles chapter of the Recording Academy,
Steve Harvey Author, Radio Personality and Television Show Host Lisa Nichols CEO, Motivating the Masses Michael Eric Dyson Author, Professor and Radio Host Roland Martin Journalist, Commentator, Host, News One Now Paul Judge Managing Partner, Judge Ventures, Advisor Opportunity Ventures Jermaine Dupri Record Producer, Songwriter and Entrepreneur Randal Pinkett Co-Founder & CEO of BCT Partners, Speaker and Author Ken Coleman Chairman, Saama Technologies Don Peebles Founder, Chairman & CEO, Peebles Corp. Reginald Hudlin American Writer, Film Director,
and Producer Necole Parker Founder and CEO, ELOCEN Group Samuel Gilmore Founder and President, Ovenight Success Inc. Tom Chikoore Founder, Techstar Risingstar Program Kim Kimble Celebrity Hairstylist, Owner of Kim Kimble Salons and Kimble Haircare System Chris Bennett, Co-Founder and CEO, Soldsie; Founder, Black Founders Sherrod Shackelford & LaVon Lewis CEOs & Co-Founders, PDG Branding & Marketing David Grain Founder & Managing Partner, Grain Management L.L.C. Stacey Key President & CEO, Georgia Minority Supplier Development Council Robert Santiago Owner of Empire FX Kim Wales Founder & CEO, Wales Capital
time the opportunity to tap into all the latest BLACK ENTERPRISE developments taking place in and around the Summit courtesy of the new dedicated BE Events app. Available for free on Android,iOS and other smartphones (attendees with Windows and BlackBerry devices can go here), the app allows visitors to access the full event schedule, browse the event social media updates, receive information on all the speakers taking part in the Summit, as well as develop a personal event planner to remind them of their must-attend sessions. It also features a detailed interactive floor plan to help attendees navigate the session rooms as well as keep attendees fully up-to-date with the latest developments through a link to the #BESummit social media tag. Attendees will also receive push notifications in the event of room changes and BLACK ENTERPRISE giveaways. To download the app for free, visit the iTunes App Store and Google Play Store.
The host sponsor of the 2015 Entrepreneurs Summit is Nationwide; presenting sponsor is Walmart and For the aspiring entrepreneur, The platinum sponsor FedEx., American Express, KOCH, General Motors Small Business Success™ Boot Camp offers practical advice on and Georgia Pacific and CIGNA. how to take your business to the Media sponsors include Urban next level. Plus, the Black EnterTrendsetters News Magazine, Trendsetter To Trendsetter Magaprise Elevator Pitch Competition will award $10,000 for the best new zine and Who’s Who Publishing. business idea. For updates, follow Black Enterprise Entrepreneurs Summit page Attendees of the 2015 Entrepreneurs on Facebook and search the Summit will also have for the first #BESummit hashtag on Twitter
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BUSINESS BUILDING
Are You Ready For The Elevator Ride? 4 Steps to Creating A Powerful Elevator Pitch the place to include all the technology, buzzwords and explanations. •Hit the high points of what it is you hope to do An elevator pitch should be able to be condensed into a single-page •Summarize the problem/solution presentation, short enough to be aspect of your concept memorized, or read easily within a few minutes—that's how it got its •Describe the business model—how name. It's a pitch that's short is it going to make money? enough to be presented during the course of an elevator ride. The ele- •Create excitement on the part of the vator pitch condenses your business reader/listener concept into something that can be presented in about a minute or •Describe the profit potential withtwo—essentially, the parts that mat- out having to bring out charts and ter, the very “essence” of the busigraphs ness. •Tell why you/your company are The elevator pitch skips the hardwell positioned to accomplish your Give an overview of your business without putting the listener to sleep. core financials, and gets straight to goal the heart of what it is about the busiEntrepreneurs with businesses in created even before the business ness that really gets you excited. •End with a call to action early start-up differ on what they plan is the “elevator pitch.” That's what this pitch is about—you believe to be the most important ele- The fact is, most people will not don't need the proof of concept here The first couple sentences are the ment, although many professionals read a business plan unless they yet, that comes in the full-length most critical, and should present will argue that creating a solid busi- have been motivated to do so bebusiness plan. The elevator pitch is your core concept. If you can't tell ness plan should definitely be the forehand. The elevator pitch is that the commercial that gets people inwhat it is you want to do in two senfirst step. A well-crafted business motivating factor. It's the hook that terested. tences or less, then you need to simplan lays out all the details and strat- gets them into the room. It's the egies, includes projections for reve- catchy jingle that gets people to pay The elevator pitch should be inspi- plify your concept. There will be plenty of time to get into all the denue and spending, and will be reattention to the AD. It's the best rational and creative, hitting the viewed in detail by bankers and ven- parts of the business plan, without high points of your business con- tails later, once you've captured your ture capitalists. But in fact, the most the boring details. The elevator pitch cept, and should accomplish the audience's interest. important document that should be is the place for the excitement, not following:
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BUSINESS BUILDING
Networking Is More Than Just Handing Out Business Cards mosphere.
At a Chamber of Commerce Business Card Exchange several years ago a well-dress woman walked up to me, business card in hand and, in perfect form held it in both hands in front of me, gesturing for me to take it. I took the card from her and smiled. She looked up and in a polite voice, said "Thank you," and walked away. How sad. Here was this obviously well-intentioned woman, who most likely owned an interesting business but never learned what to do at a card exchange. Somewhere she bought into the idea that you were suppose to hand out as many business cards in as little time as possible. Clearly, this does nothing but waste business cards. Great for card businesses, not so great for yours. The other extreme is the person who spends the entire time at a card exchange talking to the same individual, sometimes even people from their own company. Again, this is quite unproductive. The purpose of a business card exchange is to get to meet new people in a pleasant at-
option of explaining how what you do might be of interest to them. This While there are establishes a stronger platform for many good books communications, for as speaking to help you hone legend Zig Zigler says, "You get your networking what you want by helping other peoskills the essence ple get what they want." of networking is quite simple. Care about the other person There are better ways to network Businesses run on and meet prospective business conrelationships. I’ve tacts. For openers, (no pun intended) always felt that people are more responsive if you everything that first show some interest in them and we do is about what they do. There is an old cliché personal relationships and a busithat says we have one mouth and ness just gives us a playing field on two ears for a reason. If you listen which to do it. more than you talk, you will autoFollowing that theme, growing your matically find people more interestbusiness is about developing and ed in talking with you and being nurturing relationships and card ex- around you. changes and similar networking Marketing guru, Jay Abraham, once events are really the starting point to said that "Discovery is the fuel of begin what will hopefully become a competitive advantage." Get curimutually rewarding relationship. ous. Become interested in other peoSince your time is limited, it is a ple and what makes them tick. Realgood idea to spend only a short time ly care about the other person. If you speaking with people, especially take the time to investigate, you will those you already know. If you feel find that even those people who apa resonance with someone you’re pear quite ordinary have a story to talking with, make arrangements to tell. If you show an interest in them follow-up your connection at a later and their lives, you will not only date and move on to meet someone increase your chances of doing busielse. I’m sure the shy looking person ness with them but you may gain a in the corner, who is probably there friend as well. for the very first time, has something interesting to say. Why not go How do you do that? over and extend your hand. When you do introduce yourself, do so in a way that states the benefit of The other big faux paus I see over doing business with you. Saying and over again, are the people who "Hi, my name is Mary and I sell inapproach the networking meeting surance" is not very exciting. Howwith a "me, me, me" attitude. A bet- ever, if you were to say, "My name ter approach is to learn about the is Mary and I help people prepare other person first. You then have the for the uncertainty that may be in
their future." This causes the other person, if they are at all curious, to ask, "How do you do that?" At this point, you have opened the door for a further explanation or "commercial" for your business. You can go on to explain the benefits of your products and services. As an exercise, devise three or four ways to introduce your business. Let each one focus on a different benefit of your product or service. Test each of them at your next networking event. Remember: people do not buy products or services, they buy benefits and solutions. The more you focus on communicating the benefits gained from using your products or services, the more you will benefit from the increase in business. With prospecting new business becoming more and more difficult, a personal relationship is even more important and the upcoming Black Enterprise Entrepreneur Summit and the Powernetworking Conference offer the perfect playground for you do it, besides the food and entertainment are awesome!
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BUSINESS BUILDING Forbes Magazine Names George Fraser’s PowerNetworking Conference “To Pick” Can’t Miss
Motivational Speaker Les Brown premier business magazine in the world. We have always felt this way, but now the world knows it," said Fraser.
courage successful African Americans to lift others as a means of positively changing the world and changing their communities. Those scheduled to speak include Profes-
Frasernet and Powernetworking Founder George Fraser Cleveland, Ohio - FraserNet, has announced that its 2015 PowerNetworking Conference (PNC) has been named one of the "Top 5 Can't Miss" Conferences for Entrepreneurs to attend in 2015, by Forbes Magazine. Forbes releases its "Top 5 Can't Miss" list annually. The PNC is widely recognized as America's largest continuously held networking training Conference. This year, their annual conference will be held at The Fairmont Hotel in Dallas, TX, June 24-27, as is ex-
pected to draw more than 1,500+ attendees from around the world. The creation of international author, speaker and networking guru, Dr. George C. Fraser, Chairman, FraserNet, Inc., the PNC has been held in progressive cities such as Cleveland, Atlanta and Dallas. In 2016, the conference will move to the National Harbor, located between Washington, D.C. and Maryland. "I'm overjoyed to have been the first Black Conference to be selected for this prestigious recognition from the
Dr. Randal Pinkett Key training and development components of the FraserNet PowerNetworking Conference include a laser focus on wealth building, business development and wellness. There will be keynote presentations, workshops, two awards luncheons, a national town hall meeting and networking events designed to uplift African-American professional, leaders and entrepreneurs and to en-
sor Charles Ogletree, Les Brown, Dr. Randal Pinkett, Dr. Ron Daniels, Rev. Dr. Freddie Haynes, Anthony Browder, Shirley Johnson and Suzan Hart, among others. Sponsors include Toyota, First Financial Security and Isagenix.
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TECH TRENDS
Get Your Website Noticed To get your company website noticed, you need to consider two things: audience and content.
Today, marketing is dominated by valuable content and information. The Internet provides people with access to any information they wish, and your job is to become the best source for information in your field. Blogging is a great way to create informative content. It makes for more pages and inbound links, thus keeping your site active for search engines. It also engages your target audience and increases awareness of your company and brand.
The audience refers to your site’s visitors and the search engines that bring them there. To optimize your site, develop as much quality content as possible using intentionally chosen To learn more or to get help creating content for your site, visit urbankeywords. Each page should not only trendsetters.com, for more information on our online marketing, SEO, socontain useful information for your cial media and other services. readers, it should have a focus that can be defined by one or two keywords. Use enough of these to bring the page to the attention of search engines and to attract the greatest number of relevant visitors.
Students Learn To Seek A Cure—And Enjoy STEM Learning (NAPSI)—For parents and teachers tired of answering the question “Why do I have to learn this?” comes an exciting new activity series called “STEM Behind Health.” Developed by top medical experts and researchers, it provides teachers and students with an interactive, hands-on way to explore the math and science concepts behind diseases still in need of a cure.
Through an innovative new program, students and teachers can help solve real-world medical problems while learning math and science.
Aimed at getting more students interested in STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) subjects and careers, the program puts students on the front lines of the medical field, helping real patients manage very real diseases. The free online activities let students explore the math and science behind managing diseases such as breast cancer and diabetes. For example, students learn how to keep blood sugar in a safe range, why small changes in DNA can cause
big problems and how cancer cells necting the classroom experience with real-world applications, helpreplicate. ing students and teachers to explore mathematics and science inThe first activity in the series, “Managing a Critical Ratio,” enteractively. gages students in the math and science behind insulin replacement Teachers and students can downtherapy by sharing the daily strug- load “STEM Behind Health” to the gle of nursing student and diabetic TI-Nspire CX graphing calculator, Student Software or TI-Nspire Chelcie Weber. Apps for iPad or visit www.STEMbehindHealth.com. “For me, life is a never-ending math problem,” said Weber. “By bringing awareness of type 1 diabetes to students and teachers around the country, I hope to inspire a student to go on to one day develop a cure.” Weber is studying to become a pediatric nurse so that she can help other kids diagnosed with the disease. The program was created by Sanford Health and Texas Instruments Education Technology, which provides a wide range of tools con-
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Urban Trendsetters Business Directory
Your ad could be here for as low as a $150 investment Call Urban Trendsetters Today 888-885-5552
Changing Women’s Lives
Christa Payne Area Manager 614-778-1958 christapayne@aol.com Undercoverwear.com/christapayne
Call me to book your Special Girls Night Party Business Opportunity
REGISTER YOUR BUSINESS IN OUR ONLINE BUSINESS DIRECTORY FREE AT WWW.URBANTRENDSETTERS.COM /UTS BIZ LIST SELL YOUR STUFF UTS Classifieds All print classified ad will get FREE placement online. One Week Two Weeks One Month
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Call Urban Trendsetters Today 888-885-5552 ARE YOU A TRENDSETTERS? Urban Trendsetters wants to spotlight you and your business. Send your us your photo and brief introduction to Sharon@urbantrendsetters.com Subject: Business Spotlight
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ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT Oops! 3 Reasons Why Jay-Z’s Tidal Press Conference Backfired — Causing Fans To Say “Huh?” $19.99 per month. With a presentation that included himself, Alicia Keys, Madonna, Beyonce, Daft Punk, and many others, they emphasized their message that artists deserve more money for their work.
conference appeared to be a bunch of wealthy musicians on stage asking for yet more money. Some say it seemed that they were even 2) Failure to Be Different: After the press conference, fans immedi- “demanding” that their fans give ately start posting messages on so- them more money. This did not sit cial media saying that the Tidal plat- well with the average person whose form looks just like Spotify. Paste- annual salary is no where near milMagazine.com reports: “Tidal’s lions of dollars a year. ‘Playlists’ section is a point-bypoint reproduction of Spotify’s And the backlash is not over; It con‘Genres & Moods': square photos tinues to be a viral subject on social But at least three are overlayed with black and illus- media, and likely it will have a great trated with white icon. As for the impact on the official launch of Tidthings went wrong: Los Angeles, CA — Jay-Z has 99 proboverall design of the service? Allal. Some say it’s a PR nightmare for lems, and a poorly planned press 1) Failure to Convince Fans Why black interface, sans-serif typeface, the company which Jay-Z reportedly conference is one! The multiThey Should Pay: Spotify, an exist- left-hand navigation, bottom play bought last year for $48 million. platinum rapper and business mogul ing similar service, streams music button – check, check, check and recently held a press conference for for free to listeners and pays artists check.” For more details about the company, Tidal, his new two-tiered music ser- based on advertising revenue that is visit www.tidal.com vice that will allow fans to listen to generated. So fans are asking a very 3) Failure to Get Sympathy From unlimited music for either $9.99 or valid question: Why should I pay for the Fans: Critics say that the press
COVER 2 COVER
something that I can already get for free?
Media Experts Assist Aspiring Authors at the Dayton Book Expo
pert panelists for the How to Cultivate Your Audience session. Dexter Bailey (Greater Dayton Association of Black Journalists), Doris Stokes Knight (Waycross TV), Trent NewJournalists, media personalities and ell (WCSU 88.9 FM) and Amber a library representative are the exDayton, Ohio - On Saturday, April 25, 2015, over ninety authors will be autographing books at the Sixth Annual Dayton Book Expo.
Robinson (Dayton Daily News) will help aspiring authors understand what it takes to attract attention for interviews and articles. Chuck Duritsch, the external relations manager for Dayton Metro Library, rounds out the panel by explaining the library's process for acquiring books. "Regardless of publishing options, the most difficult aspect of the book business is marketing and promotions. Approximately sixty percent of an author's resources-time, effort and moneyare allocated to locating readers and
convincing them to purchase books." states expo founder Valerie J. Lewis-Coleman. To improve an author's success, the Dayton Book Expo offers panel discussions on writing, publishing and marketing. Dayton Book Expo. The event will be held in the Great Hall at Sinclair Community College's Ponitz Conference Center-Building 12, 444 West Third Street, Dayton, Ohio 45402 from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM. The family-friendly event is free and open to the public.
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EVENTS
Join Urban Trendsetter for the 90 Days of Networking Series
The Urban Trendsetters List of 2015 Media Sponsorship GROWING NATIONALLY & FAST!!!! Events Include but NOT limited to: The 2015 Black Enterprise Entrepreneurs Summit-Atlanta, GA Who’s Who Publishing Book Unveiling Receptions for Atlanta, GA other city announcements soon. The 2015 Powernetworking - Conference, Dallas, TX The African American Male Wellness Walk - Atlanta, Detroit, Washington, DC, Niagara Falls 2015 Champions of Diversity and Career town Network Career Fair— Columbus, OH and Atlanta, GA The African American Film Festival-New York City FOR MORE INFORMATION ON ADVERTISING, SPONSORSHIP OR VENDOR OPPORTUNITIES LOG ONTO WWW.URBANTRENDSETTERS.COM /EVENTS CALL : Mykayla Bryant or Sharon S. Gordon at 888-885-5552 EMAIL: mykayla@urbantrendsetteres.com or Sharon@urbantrendsetters.com
DAYTON’S DIVERSITY STATION 937-275-7677 Call Today to ADVERTISE!
888-885-5552 www.urbantrendsetters.com
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REAL ESTATE TRENDS
Tips To Help You Sell Your House your best source for accurate, up-todate information and comparable properties to help you determine a It’s wise to work with a Realtor. According to a survey from the Na- competitive listing price for your home. He or she will give you an tional Association of Realtors, 88 percent of recent homesellers used idea of how long homes are staying an agent. A Realtor can provide ex- on the market and at what price pert advice and counsel on the sell- they’re selling. While it’s important Selling your house can be less stress free. to get the best possible deal for your ing process, including listing your home, a Realtor will help you underhouse on the Multiple Listing SerIf you’re considering putting your vice (MLS), marketing it to prospec- stand the importance of pricing your home on the market in the coming tive buyers and accepting offers and house appropriately. Overpricing months, there are a few tips you negotiating on your behalf. To find a your home could lead to it staying on the market too long—compelling Realtor nearby, go to should follow. www.realtor.com/realestateagents. you to compromise on the asking House sales generally peak around price or terms. June and July, with many families Know your neighborhood when beginning their home search in the setting your asking price. Realtors Decide on how to market your spring, in hopes of settling into their have real insights in the markets home. Given the mass amounts of new home in time for the next where they do business. A Realtor is information available today to conschool year.
sumers, the days of just placing an ad in your local newspaper and putting a “For Sale” sign in front of your yard are over. A Realtor® can place your listing on the MLS and work with you to decide other ways to market your home. Marketing your listing on a popular real estate website such as www.realtor.com will ensure your listing is generating the most eyeballs from interested buyers. If you’re looking to sell your home as quickly and easily as possible, you could use the real insights you’ll get having a Realtor help you through the process of finding interested buyers and eventually closing the deal.
HOME & STYLE TRENDS
Four Steps To Price Your Home condo, consumers often anxiously turn to the Internet, neighbors and Realtors to come up with a good estimate. But is it the right price?
• Online house estimates can vary pricing a home. A certified appraiser widely and are often based on incor- measures, inspects and studies the local comparable market activity so rect square footage and lot size. that sellers get the most accurate • Banks approve loans based on an price and feel confident to move foraccurate appraisal, not a ward in selling their home. "guesstimate." For more information on preThe National Associa- • Home improvements and updated appraisal reports, go to Housetion of Realtors refax.com or call (877) 598-6634. cosmetics make the difference in ports that over 15 per- what a buyer will pay. cent of home sales are A pre-appraisal report from a reputable property history delayed, renegotiated • It's smart to stage your home; buyservice can help a seller set the right price for a home. or canceled due to ers want to see themselves, not you, home appraisals fall- living there. Pricing your home for sale is one of ing short of the contract price. To life's major financial decisions. get the best value from your home, To receive the true value for their What's too little, what's too much? here are tips to look out for. property, sellers and Realtors can When researching selling a house or get a pre-appraisal report before
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AUTO TRENDS
Avoid Car-Selling Scams (NAPSI)—The Internet makes it easy
to shop for the best bargain on a used car—just remember, an offer that seems "too good to be true" probably is. It may come from someone known as a "curbstoner." These are illegal dealers who pose as individual sellers online and mostly deal with cars that reputable dealers won't touch. You may see cheap prices but the cars generally have major problems you're not told about, such as flood damage, bad accidents or odometer problems. Some may even have a different Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), a trick used by thieves to hide the true identity of stolen cars.
Look for: 1. Strange marks or scratches on the dashboard VIN plate or sticker inside the driver's side door. 2. Any car documents where the VIN looks altered. 3. Multiple VINs on different pieces of paperwork. 4. The seller's name not appearing on car title or registration. What to do: Shop online at a place like carfax.com. Every car for sale there comes with a free Carfax Vehicle History Report. Also have a trusted meBeware of buying a used car online, sight unseen. You may get one with severe dam- chanic inspect the vehicle and always age from floods, accidents and the like. see the car in person.
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Urban Trendsetters and Career Town Network Host STEM Virtual Career Fairs The purpose of this conference is to follow the government's lead in it's STEM or Educate to Innovate model. Our 4 goals are: 1: Bring more awareness and emphasize the importance of in our education system and encourage students to pursue degrees and careers in STEM 2: Create more teachers and educators in the STEM areas 3: Create more diversity and careers in STEM for women and minorities 4: Create and develop relationships between corporations, colleges, universities and educators that will provide more positions of internships for
This series of online/virtual career fairs will allow recruiters and job seekers to interact one on one from the comfort of office and home.
For Registration, Vendor and Sponsorship Opportunities and Information Call 888-885-5552 Email Sharon@urbantrendsetters.com www.urbantrendsetters.com Register for Your FREE Career Town Account
CLASSIFIEDS UTS Online Classifieds The Urban Trendsetters allow our customers the opportunity to submit their classified ads and pay online. You may add photos, videos and links to your classified ads. You may also choose to upload current display ad. As with our coupons our classified ads are available in print, online, via e-blast in our weekly top classified blast as well as front page top classified listing feature on our website.
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FINANCIAL ADVISOR Registered Investment Advisory Firm is currently expanding throughout Ohio. We are in search of Independent Investment Advisor Representatives. Must be self-motivated, professional and willing to take direction. If you have a financial or insurance back round we encourage your response. We work with Globally/ Recognized Money Managers. Strong Ethics and complete transparency with clients relationships is essential. Please contact: Hardiman Investment Management, Inc., @ 614-2099748 or submit a resume via e-mail to
FREELANCE WRITERS Do you love to write? Urban Trendsetters is growing and we are looking for writers.
MEDIA SALES
Earn Extra Income for the Holidays Urban Trendsetters wants to increase your sales staff. We offer a variety of media services and we serve many If you are good writer, love condifferent industries. necting with people and enjoy relay- If you are a professional individual ing empowering information, UTS is seeking unlimited income potential the place for you. Contact Sharon S. give us a call today at 888-885-5552 Gordon at 888-885-5552 for more or email information or send email to insales@urbantrendsetters.com fo@urbantrendsetters.com
UTS FREE CARD Ever wondered how your business could profit from a Pre-Paid Card and the PPC industry. Contact UTS Free today at 614-526-8871 or email utsfreecard@gmail.com
Classified Ads $25 & up! Your Ad Could Be HERE!
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ALL FOR $799
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Urban Trendsetters is YOUR NEW Online Marketing Department SECURE YOUR ACCOUNTS TODAY! Urban Trendsetters Brand Establisher & Booster Call 888-885-5552 for a FREE Consultation
The next most important things to secure for your brand after acquiring your domain name are the account names and profiles on social media, blogs and local directories. We all know that it is optimal to have a domain name that exactly matches your brand name or business name. The same is true for your account names, as well as the URL's of your profiles on social media, blogs and directories. Your accounts on Web properties are part of your brand presence and so securing your accounts. Establishing your accounts with optimal branding is of great importance.