Urban Views Weekly April 26, 2017 by Urban Views Weekly

Apr. 26, 2017

Scholar of the Week - Samantha Ayres

Buying or selling, primary residence or investing, real estate deals are in the future for many

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Civic Beat FUNdraising Good Times

Intersection Improvements at Patterson Avenue and Parham Road Henrico County Design Public Hearing

Monday, May 8*, 2017, 5 – 7 p.m. Tuckahoe Library 1901 Starling Drive Henrico, VA 23229 Find out about the proposed improvements at the intersection of Patterson Avenue (Route 6) and Parham Road in Henrico County. These modifications will increase the capacity and safety of the intersection and reduce traffic congestion, particularly during peak travel hours. The meeting will be held in an open house format from 5 - 7 p.m. where individuals can talk one-on-one with project staff. This flexible format allows participants to arrive whenever their schedule will allow. Review project information and the National Environmental Policy Act documentation at the public hearing or at VDOT’s Richmond District Office located at 2430 Pine Forest Drive in Colonial Heights, 804-5246000, 800-367-7623, TTY/TDD 711. Please call ahead to ensure the availability of appropriate personnel to answer your questions. Give your written comments at the meeting or submit them by May 18, 2017 to Jason Zhang, P.E., project manager, Virginia Department of Transportation, 2430 Pine Forest Drive, Colonial Heights, VA 238349002, 804-524-6324, 800-367-7623 or TDD/TTY 711. You may also email your comments to Jason.Zhang@vdot.virginia.gov. Please reference “Patterson/Parham intersection improvements comments” in the subject line. VDOT ensures nondiscrimination and equal employment in all programs and activities in accordance with Title VI and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. If you need more information in regards to your civil rights on this project or special assistance for persons with disabilities or limited English proficiency, contact the project manager at the telephone number listed above.

Choosing and using a donor management system - Part One Technology makes the world go round. And that includes the world of fundraising. The complaints related to fundraising technology are many and varied. Some people complain they can’t produce “simple” reports requested by management. Others are vexed by the stand-alone nature of a product. Integrating with accounting is a common complaint, as is the frustration that arises when trying to reconcile fundraising data with that recorded by accounting. A common question – with a complex answer – arises: “What type of donor database should we be using?”

“When you want to grow your fundraising, the technology you use will play a major role...”

In an attempt to shed some light on the situation, we reached out to Ashley Harper, former Director of Grants and Initiatives at the Community Foundation of Greater

Let’s talk about growing your business. Ask us how: (804) 441-6255 2

Urban Views Weekly | April 26, 2017

Saad&Shaw: At what point in its life-cycle should a nonprofit look to purchase or upgrade their donor management system?

Ashley Harper: If developing donors is important to the organization, a system should be implemented as soon as that process begins. There are some very inexpensive cloud-based systems that cost little to nothing up front and can get you started on the right foot. Upgrading should become a priority continues to page 11

Letter To The Editor

If you would like to respond to Viewpoints, your submission should contain your name, a full valid address and a daytime phone number. We cannot acknowledge submitted letters. We reserve the right to edit for accuracy, clarity, legality and taste. E-mail (without attachments) to editor@ urbanviewsweekly.com. Mail letters to Editor Urban Views Weekly.

Ervin B. Clarke, Publisher publisher@urbanviewsweekly.com

* In the event of inclement weather on May 8, this meeting will be held on Monday, May 15 at the same time and location above. State Project: 0006-043-760, P101, R201, C501 Federal Project: STP-5A27 (090)

Memphis. Reflecting on her experience with the foundation, she shared that a common request was for funding to purchase and implement donor management tools. She has learned a lot about the good, the bad and the ugly as it relates to this topic. With this interview, we share her insights with you.

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Urban Views Weekly | April 26, 2017

ViewPoints

By Dr. T

The FOX and the rest of the house… There’s an old expression that speaks to someone with bad intentions. “I’d watch out for him if I were you—he walks around here like a fox in the henhouse.” Recently, a conservative cable news network has been plagued by sexual harassment lawsuits and accusations to the tune of multi-million dollar settlements. In 2016, Roger Ailes, the founder and former Chairman and CEO of Fox News and the Fox Television Stations Group, resigned following allegations that he sexually harassed female colleagues. Last week, the same fate befell Bill O’Reilly, major media star and host of Fox News’s most popular talk show The O’Reilly Factor. One doesn’t need to consider these two men for long or the situation in which they have found themselves in to understand one thing unequivocally. There’s a “culture of compliance” at the Fox News network that has allowed these very powerful men to continue to create a workplace environment that has been inherently hostile to women. Together, they built an empire at Fox News that supported conservative politics and politicians exclusively. Now with two of the biggest and brightest stars dismissed from leadership one has to wonder, “What of the culture that allowed years, if not decades of abuse to go unaddressed?”

network and are just waiting in the shadows until the “storm” blows over? One thing is certain. Abuse and sustained harassment in the workplace is against the law. The fact that many, men and women knew this abuse was going on and yet remained silent in the face of it, makes them complicit in maintaining an environment that supports it. It is no different for the greater community. We all have a responsibility to speak up and call out people, organizations, businesses and institutions where we KNOW there’s a culture of sustained abuse, harassment, intimidation and overt oppression of certain people and groups of people. It takes courage and a type of moral integrity that not everyone is willing to embrace. The willingness to step up and stand in the gap for someone else that is unable to stand up for themselves is part of what being an ally is all about.

“The absolute silence of those at the network...is stunning.”

Fox News has a serious problem. Although they have rid themselves of a certain two high profile players in the game of serial abuse and harassment, the network and culture of the entire organization are not without culpability for enabling the players and supporting the games. The Fox Network, by the silence of those The absolute silence of those at the network, who tout remaining, may still be infected and extremely dangerous themselves as holding the so-called “moral high ground” to women and minority workers under its charge. Even such as Sean Hannity and Chris Wallace, is stunning. It more than FOX, we, ALL of us, are part of the problem reminds me of the famous quote by Edmund Burke, “The when we do nothing but sit and watch when we witness only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men things like sexual and racial harassment and abuse and say to do nothing.” Why the silence? Are there others who nothing. These things cannot be overlooked, nor can they are being protected be “tolerated.” Don’t and enabled to harass be a bystander…say Tawnya Pettiford-Wates, Ph.D. and abuse women something or you are Founder and Artistic Director in the workplace? both complicit and The Conciliation Project and Associate Professor Are others being supportive of what Virginia Commonwealth University protected by the you “say” you abhor. DrT@Margins2theCenter.com | www.theconciliationproject.org

Urban Views Weekly | April 26, 2017

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The Deal

By Nathaniel Sillin

Quality printing at an affordable price

Secrets to Saving on Your Summer City Vacation Cities attract people for different reasons, which is partly why cities are such popular vacation destinations. Summer is one of the best times to visit, as the long days give you extra hours of sunlight for exploration and many cities host a variety of free activities. The busy season can mean rising prices, but there are a few city-specific savings tactics that can take some of the strain off your budget. Look for insiders’ knowledge about the city. Many major cities are covered by bloggers who focus on how to enjoy the city on the cheap. You could start your planning by researching online with the keywords “free or cheap” and the city’s name. Some of the well-organized websites will even let you filter events by date, cost and your interests. Also check the city’s local newspaper sites for lists of free or cheap events. During the summer, many cities have free outdoor concerts and movie screenings; you can pack a picnic dinner and enjoy the warm weather and show. Get around the city like a local. It might make sense to take an occasional cab, but some cities have robust public transportation systems. Take a few minutes to study the city’s layout before arriving and don’t be afraid to ask locals for advice or directions. If you’re in town for more than a few days, look into time-based public transportation passes. For example, you can get a sevenday Unlimited Ride MetroCard for subway and bus rides in New York City for $32. (There’s $1 new-card fee if you’re not refilling an existing card.) You can even use it on the crosstown buses that can quickly get you from one side of Central Park to the other. Explore new cuisine. One of my favorite parts about visiting a city is trying the www.UrbanViewsWeekly.com

restaurants. Whether you save up and enjoy one of the city’s finest eateries or find a hole-in-the-wall hidden gem, there’s something for everyone. Luckily, many cities’ must-try foods are on the inexpensive side. Chicago’s hot dogs, Portland’s doughnuts and Austin’s tacos all often cost less than $5. You can also look for lists of cheap and delicious eats alongside the free-entertainment tips from frugal bloggers and local papers. High-end restaurants will inevitably be pricey, but if it’s on your “must-do” list, there could be ways to save. Some restaurants offer less expensive brunches or early evening tasting menus, or you might be able to grab a small bite and a drink at the bar rather than a full meal. Find the deals if you’re going to shop. Some people see shopping as an intrinsic part of a vacation, and cities are often home to chains’ flagship stores, boutiques and specialty shops. The wide variety of options could tempt you to overspend, but it also means there are plenty of opportunities to save.

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If you’re in the luxury market, look for sample sales where high-end brands might be charging (relatively) less for products formerly on runways or showroom floors. Trying to stick to a tight budget? Look for large retailers’ clearance sales, particularly if you’re visiting when stores are clearing seasonal items off their shelves. Think outside the box when it comes to lodging. Most people know that hotels in the heart of tourist areas are often the most expensive, and many turn to homesharing sites as cheaper alternatives. Another trick is to look for availability at hotels in the city’s financial district. Holidays and Continues to Page 11

Urban Views Weekly | April 26, 2017

Real Estate Investors often help with Life’s trajectory can shift at a moment’s notice. Incomes fluctuate, family dynamics change, and sometimes, an opportunity for relocation is too good to pass up. Unfortunately, not every trajectory shift is a pleasant one, and for homeowners, the thought of facing real estate trouble is too big a burden to bear. In these moments, having an ally and industry expert in your corner is imperative. They’re someone who knows the housing market and can help develop creative solutions that make navigating these life changes a breeze. More than having someone who understands the market, you also need a professional who has your best interest in mind when negotiating and works on your behalf.

a mortgage or taxes that they weren’t financial prepared to take on. Others can get complex, like they need to sell their home to relocate to another city, but need the proceeds from the sale before they can move to their next place. In that situation, I’ve been able to work out a solution that allowed the buyer to stay in the home a week or two after the sale is final.”

What Jackson’s clients appreciate most is the sense of camaraderie that begins before any deal is made and lasts far beyond the signing of a check. For her, it’s not about the money, but more about the relationships she’s building around the city she holds dear. She looks out for everyone involved, and ensures they’re taken care of after contracts are signed. In fact, if she Martine Jackson prides herself on purchases a home that someone’s being one of the allies that uses occupying, she’ll take the time to Martine Jackson industry knowledge to develop search for another place for them to creative solutions for Richmond homeowners. The owner move. These small, informal touches is what has carried of Hoover Homes, LLC, a Richmond-based real estate her business to incredible levels of success in just a few investing company, Jackson has spent the past three years short years. buying, selling, and educating the public on the process Since opening her company’s doors, Jackson has noticed of sealing real estate deals. She delves into the challenges no slowing down in Richmond’s housing market. She investors often face, from bidding wars to accepting specifically targets homeowners in the most rapidlydefeat, and stresses the importance of building a solid developing areas with a strong rental market, area codes relationship with every potential seller, even after hearing 23223 and 23224. With the incredible growth this city “no.” More important than the actual process, Jackson experiences, there’s no educates homeowners shortage of landlordon the various solutions tenant relationships that available when looking to constantly evolve and need sell. Through Facebook the help of a real estate Live sessions and investor to develop fast, in-person consultations, sound solutions. Jackson continues to grow her business while “I do work with some offering a one-of-a-kind rental properties owners service to Richmond who no longer want to be residents. landlords,” Jackson says. “I meet people in all types of situations,” Jackson explains. “Some are pretty straightforward, like they’ve inherited a property that comes with 6

Urban Views Weekly | April 26, 2017

“Especially the elderly, who sometimes just want out Jackson discusses progress on rental property renovations.

“They’re someone who kn and can help develop of the business. That’s where investors come in; having us involved allows them to simply transfer ownership as opposed to placing the house totally on the market. This especially works out in cases where a reliable tenant wants to remain in the home but doesn’t qualify for the home loan needed to own the property; as investors, we develop solutions to make it possible to have a seamless transition.” Clearly, this entire process can become invasive rather quickly. Investors are privy to extremely personal information, not just about finances or the lack thereof, but also family dynamics, loss, and overall uncertainty.

Handwritten signs ge Jackson wit

non-traditional sales and acquisitions

By Janna M. Hall

“I often work with individuals who are in retirement age,” Jackson says. “Many times, they’re dealing with the loss of a spouse and want to move, or have high medical bills that make it difficult to keep up with the mortgage. And if they have high equity, it means they have more solutions available.”

nows the housing market p creative solutions...” Facing foreclosure is arguably one of the most stressful predicaments a homeowner can face, and working with the right investor to discuss every option helps ease the stress and frustration.

et the most responses. th her sign.

Things also get particularly personal when dealing with the loss of a spouse. Perhaps a homeowner is grieving the loss of a loved one and doesn’t want to live in the home with the painful reminder. Or maybe they can’t afford the mortgage with their income alone. In these cases, having the option to sell quickly is made easier with an investor, and Jackson knows first-hand the importance of having them readily available and willing to help.

types of investors to the BBB to showcase their ability to structure creative deals and solutions with sellers. “The Better Business Bureau is typically where people go to research if a company is legit or not,” the site says in a 2013 article titled, Should Real Estate Investors Join the BBB? “When they see a good rating, it eases their fears about working with you.”

Whether you’re in a vulnerable state or just ready to sell your home quickly without a lengthy process, Jackson suggests With the BBB, it’s all about taking your time when building reputation and choosing an investor. Not credibility, so sellers can everyone has your best trust this resource when interest in mind, and not finding reliable investors everyone wants to help who develop creative you make the best decision. Jackson shows a potential buyer a solutions to unique Because of this, Jackson property undergoing renovations. situations. recommends sitting and meeting with potential investors to feel them out and see Whether you take the online route or search for investors if you genuinely like them. The Better Business Bureau via word of mouth, Jackson says that above, all, it’s about (BBB) is also an excellent resource for finding quality your level of comfort. investors. “It’s okay to actually like the person you’re doing business According to Freedom Mentor, a program and website with,” she says. “If you dedicated to mentoring don’t like them, you don’t real estate investors and have to sell to them. Many educating the public on people look at the entire financial freedom, the transaction like it’s a check, BBB helps the public find but you have to decide the most creative and who’s trustworthy and well-respected investors. really wants to help you. Traditional investors The name of the game is typically work with real ‘Who’s really here for you?’ estate agents or auctions When you can answer that to find deals for which question, then you know they can pay all cash. They who you need to work offer no creative solutions, with.” so they seldom rely on reviews to gain clientele. For homeowners seeking solutions or looking to Creative investors, Potential buyer makes an offer on a rental property. discuss selling options, however, work directly contact Martine Jackson with the seller to identify the need and discuss a variety and Hoover Homes, LLC at (804) 876-0212 or on Facebook, of solutions and options, so they rely more on reviews at www.facebook.com/hooverhomesllc. to build their business. Freedom Mentor directs these Photos: Janna M. Hall

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SAVOR

Family Features Courtesy Aunt Nellie’s

Add a Tex-Mex Favorite to Your Menu A tortilla plus a tasty filling makes a household favorite – a taco. This simple, casual, versatile, fun food knows no boundaries. Tacos can be right for breakfast, lunch, dinner and even snacks and dessert, depending on the filling. For tacos with a unique, delicious twist on tradition, try these chicken soft tacos with pickled beet salsa that are ready in 30 minutes. The antioxidant-rich Aunt Nellie’s Pickled

Beets lend color, as well as a refreshing sweettangy flavor that’s complementary to the lime juice, cilantro and red onion in the salsa. This sassy salsa is a perfect partner for rotisserie, roasted or grilled chicken, arugula and a dollop of jalapeno mustard-sour cream sauce nestled inside a soft flour tortilla. For your taco fiesta, just set out the tortillas, salsa and other toppings and let everyone help themselves to a fun and delicious dinner.

Chicken Soft Tacos with Pickled Beet Salsa Prep time: 25 minutes

Servings: 4

Salsa:

Tacos:

jar (16 ounces) Aunt Nellie’s Baby Whole Pickled Beets

1/3 cup sour cream

tablespoons chopped red onion

tablespoon jalapeno mustard

tablespoons coarsely chopped fresh cilantro leaves

soft flour tortillas (6-inch diameter)

cups fresh arugula

tablespoon fresh lime juice

cups chopped cooked rotisserie chicken (hot or cold)

1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper To make salsa: drain beets and chop. In medium bowl, combine beets, onion, cilantro, lime juice, salt and pepper. To make tacos: In small bowl, stir together sour cream and mustard; set aside. On one half of each tortilla, place equal amounts of salsa, arugula, chicken and cheese. Top with dollops of mustard-sour cream. Fold over.

1/4 cup crumbled queso fresco Substitution: Sliced pickled beets or three single-serve cups of Aunt Nellie’s Diced Pickled Beets may be substituted for baby whole pickled beets.

Find out about the proposed Old Buckingham Road (Route 13) bridge replacement project over Sallee Creek. The project will replace the 97 year old structure. The road will be temporarily closed and a detour will be in place for approximately four months during construction. Review the project information and National Environmental Policy Act documentation at VDOT’s Richmond District Office located at 2430 Pine Forest Drive in Colonial Heights, 23834-9002 804-524-6000, 1-800-3677623,TTY/TDD 711. Please call ahead to ensure the availability of appropriate personnel to answer your questions. If your concerns cannot be satisfied, VDOT is willing to hold a public hearing. You may request that a public hearing be held by sending a written request to Winston Phillips, Project Manager, Virginia Department of Transportation, 2430 Pine Forest Drive, Colonial Heights, VA 23834-9002 or by email to Winston.Phillips@VDOT.Virginia.gov on or prior to May 10, 2017. If a request for a public hearing is received, notice of date, time and place of the hearing will be posted. Pursuant to 23 CFR 774, the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) intends to make a Section 4(f) de minimis finding related to the proposed right of way impacts on the Powhatan Wildlife Management Area that total approximately 0.06 acre. Information relating to this finding is available by contacting Winston Phillips at the previously stated address. Public comment is invited related to this Section 4(f) de minimis finding. Comments must be received in writing to Winston Phillips by May 10, 2017. VDOT ensures nondiscrimination and equal employment in all programs and activities in accordance with Title VI and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. If you have questions or concerns about your civil rights in regards to this project or special assistance for persons with disabilities or limited English proficiency, contact the project manager listed above.

Nutritional information per serving: 380 calories; 20 g protein; 28 g carbohydrates; 20 g total fat; 650 mg sodium; 80 mg cholesterol; 1 g dietary fiber; 2 mg iron; 0.15 mg thiamin; 460 IU vitamin A; 4 mg vitamin C.

Central Virginia African American Chamber of Commerce 8

Old Buckingham Road (Route 13) Bridge Replacement Powhatan County Willingness to Hold a Public Hearing Section 4(f) De Minimis Public Notice

Urban Views Weekly | April 26, 2017

www.CVAACC.org

State Project: 0013-072-593, P101, R201, C501, B607 Federal Project: BR-072-4(020) UPC: 105108

Expand your network and Grow your business. www.UrbanViewsWeekly.com

Dominion’s Project Plant It! Cultivates Learning & Lifelong Love of Trees By Suyapa Marquez, Senior Community Affairs Representative Each year, Dominion’s Project Plant It! finds fresh ways to educate children about the role of trees in the ecosystem. The program began in 2007, making this year the 11th observance and Project Plant It! continues to grow into new areas served by Dominion.

of underground power, cable, phone or gas lines. • If planting in the yard at home: Select a sunny location with moist, well-drained soil. Dig a hole just deep enough to cover the root ball. Plant the seedling, cover the root ball with soil and mulch, and water frequently during the first year.

A hallmark of the program is the distribution of a free redbud tree seedling to all participants prior to Arbor Day (April 28). About 50,000 children are enrolled across a number of states this year, including several thousand in the public school systems of the Richmond metro region. Dominion recently expanded enrollment to educators and group leaders who work with children of all ages and grade levels. This enables scout troops, church and civic groups, homeschools and preschools to sign up for Project Plant It!, along with elementary, middle and high schools. Interactive Tools for Educators The Educator’s Guide, which is posted at www. ProjectPlantIt.com in the section for educator resources, has more than 50 pages of educational tools such as lesson plans in STEM subjects of math and science. A new interactive feature has been added to the Educator’s Guide this year. Leaders can click on the lesson plan that they want to view and be taken directly to that page, instead of having to scroll through the entire booklet as in the past.

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Teacher with students & poster

Along with the Educator’s Guide, the website includes educational games, instructional videos and outdoor activities for children and families to enjoy together. Tree reading lists and links to many other resources about environmental education can be found on the site. Tips for Planting Tree Seedlings If your child brings home a seedling in late April, Dominion offers some tips to ensure that the trees are planted promptly and properly: • For your safety, call 811 before you dig on the spot you have selected. Do not plant trees underneath or within 25 feet of an overhead power line. Do not plant trees on top

• If planting in a container: Fill a one-gallon pot with potting soil. Dig a hole just deep enough to cover the root ball. Plant the seedling, cover the root ball with soil and water as needed during the first year. Place pot in a place that gets regular sunlight. “Children will always remember the experience of planting a tree, taking care of it and watching it grow over the years,” said Suyapa Marquez, Senior Community Affairs Representative at Dominion. “Project Plant It! connects children to the environment in a unique and meaningful way.” Since 2007, Dominion has distributed more than 400,000 tree seedlings to participating children. This equates to more than 1,000 acres of new forest if all of the seedlings are planted and grow to maturity. [Source: Virginia Department of Forestry] For more information, visit www.ProjectPlantIt.com or “Like” the program on Facebook.

Urban Views Weekly | April 26, 2017

Scholar of the Week

Samantha Ayres

of Richmond Community High School GPA: 4.91 College(s) of Interest: University of Richmond Major Community Service: Richmond SPCA Strong Interests: Pediatrics Favorite Activities: Playing softball, working out and spending time with friends Ever since she was little, Samantha Ayres knew she wanted to be a doctor. “Growing up, I spent a lot of time in hospitals due to my father’s epilepsy,” Samantha stated in an essay. “Seeing the doctors and nurses treat their patients sparked the realization in me that I wanted to do the same thing when I got older.” Samantha has always enjoyed working with children, which influenced her to pursue pediatrics. During her time in the Health Sciences Academy, Samantha had the opportunity to shadow a pediatric nurse. Being around the children and experiencing the medical field firsthand is what reassured her that she was on the right path. Samantha plans to continue her education by getting her undergraduate degree and then attending medical school. Next fall, she plans to major in biology at the University of Richmond. “I could tell that they have a really big focus on academics and that’s something that I wanted since I had a really rigorous academic life in high school,” Samantha said about why she wanted to attend the university. She also enjoyed the sense of community within the small school and everyone’s welcoming attitude. While she still had time to decide, as of now, Samantha’s top choice for medical school is Pennsylvania State University. Although she is still in high school, Samantha constantly prepares for college by putting a big focus on her education. She currently maintains a 4.91 GPA. “It was always just kind of natural for me. I just always knew I was supposed to work hard in school,” Samantha said. Seeing her hard work reflected in her grades

Scholar0 k of the Wee

™

Urban Views Weekly | April 26, 2017

encouraged her to continue working hard. The fact that her hard work paid off, is one lesson Samantha plans on taking with her to college. Although she is serious about her academics, Samantha also takes time to participate in extracurricular activities. One way she gives back to the community is by volunteering at the Richmond SPCA. In school, she is a member of the National Honor Society, FBLA, the Key Club, Mu Alpha Theta and Honor Council. Her favorite activities to do outside of school is to play sports such as volleyball and softball. “I think they provide somewhat of an outlet for me because I have so much to do with school,” she said. “It’s kind of a set time I have to not worry about school and I can just have fun.” She has played softball for almost nine years. Even before she was on a team, she played with her dad which is why it is one of her favorite activities to do outside of school and she plans to continue playing. Although she’s worked hard in school, Samantha said she was still able to have a fun high school experience. One of her biggest influences is her mother. “She’s super hard working in my eyes because she has her own business,” Samantha said. “That’s a big inspiration to me because I don’t know if I could handle my own business.” With the support of her family, Samantha plans to continue working hard in college so she can achieve her long-term goal of becoming a pediatrician. She said accomplishing that goal would make her life feel complete.

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FUNdraising from page 2

if the current system is going to become obsolete or unsupported, when a deeper analysis of donor data becomes necessary but is unavailable in the current system, or when it becomes important to upgrade to a system that can manage additional types of constituents in the same system. Saad&Shaw: What are the key factors in selecting a data management system? Harper: Like many decisions, choosing a donor management system should start with the end in mind. What outputs does your organization need from the system? Pulling that data easily should be priority number one. Additional basic considerations include the following: • Is the new system compatible with the existing hardware?

• How does the system integrate with other programs such as email management systems, survey programs, etc.? We will share more of Harper’s insights in next week’s column. As we end this column, we want you to think about the role that technology can play within your organization. It is important to view technology as an asset that can leverage your relationships and increase your friendraising and fundraising. When you want to grow your fundraising, the technology you use will play a major role in helping you determine how to proceed and who to invite to give and provide leadership. Resources: Websites that can assist in the process include Idealware.org, TechSoup. org, and NTEN.org. Visit bit.ly/FGTBlog for additional resources.

• What kind of support will the vendor offer and at what cost?

• What are the estimated costs of initial set-up, data clean-up and conversion, system implementation, staff training, customization, and annual maintenance and licensing fees?

Mel and Pearl Shaw are authors of four books on fundraising available on Amazon. com. For help growing your fundraising visit www.saadandshaw.com or call (901) 522-8727.

• Is the data secure?

TanyaFree.com/ Urban Views Weekly Poll Conversations about political issues at work are on the rise. Nearly six in 10 U.S. workers say that the people around them have been discussing political issues more often over the past four months than they have in the past according to a recent poll.

What’s Your Take? Have you found yourself discussing politics more at work this year?

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The Deal from page 5

weekends can bring vacancies at these properties, which may mean lower rates. Hotels right outside the main city, but accessible by public transportation, can also cost less. Bottom line: Cities can be expensive, particularly during the busy summer, but there’s a reason they’re such popular vacation destinations. Whether you’re interested in museums, shows, food, historic sites or all of the above, there are ways to save and make the most out of your summer in the city. Nathaniel Sillin directs Visa’s financial education programs. To follow Practical Money Skills on Twitter: www.twitter. com/PracticalMoney

Check out the story and respond to this week’s poll at TanyaFree.com and the Urban Views Weekly FACEBOOK Page. Listen to the Tanya Free and Friends Talk Show Wednesdays @ 2pm on WCLM1450AM streaming LIVE @ TanyaFree.com and BlackTalkRadioNetwork.com. You can now watch us LIVE at TanyaFree.com and ustream.tv

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Urban Views Weekly | April 26, 2017

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61 RECIPES TO MAKE THE MOST OF THE SEASON

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YOUR SOLUTION TO EVERYDAY EATING

RECIPES, COOKING VIDEOS, MONEY-SAVING TIPS & MUCH MORE

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Urban Views Weekly | April 26, 2017