Urban Views Weekly May 10, 2017 by Urban Views Weekly

May 10, 2017

Scholar of the Week - Phillisha Hopson

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Civic Beat To our Readers

As we enter the tenth year of publishing, we hold fast to our mission of showcasing the African American community in a positive light. It has always been our fundamental belief that there needs to be a counterbalance to the images and depictions so often shown of African Americans in the mainstream media. Now, as we go into our tenth year we will enhance your “views” by providing color to our entire publication. Going forward, when we show you, we will show you in “living color.” Not just black and white, but every color in the rainbow. We live in a time where almost everyone is carrying a camera and color images are at everyone’s fingertips; we felt that color should be in your fingertips as you read our pages. To those who submit photographs that accompany a news release, your pictures will look the best if you send larger files. The small files that will work on social media get distorted when we try to print them large enough to be impactful. Make sure your files are at least 1MB. To our advertisers, an article in Scientific American stated “researchers learned that subjects were more likely to recall the color version of an image than the same scene in black and white.” Your color ad is going to work harder for you than a black and white ad. As we celebrate 10 years, we are giving you the color for free. We trust you will enjoy the upgrade. We thank you for your continued support. *Source Genesis 9:12-17

FUNdraising Good Times

A powerful way to honor mothers Mother’s Day is almost here. Most of us get mom a card. Many of us like to give flowers or candy, take mom to dinner, or have a gathering at the house. But these are short-lived. The flowers wither, the food is eaten and the cards are forgotten. You’ve created memories, that’s true. But what about a gift that could create memories throughout the year? One that could empower your mother and her community? That’s right – we are talking about a gift to a nonprofit that reflects your mother’s values.

call the organization directly. Share that you want to make a gift in your mother’s honor, and that you want to encourage others in your family to join you in doing so. Ask about upcoming events and volunteer opportunities. Your next step is to get into action. Now that you know the organization you want to donate to, make a gift. Send a check or give online. The nice thing about giving online is that some websites are set up so you can share news of your gift via social media and encourage others to give. Imagine if 10 of your friends and family members also made a gift. Your mother would be honored 10 times over.

“...we are talking about a gift to a nonprofit that reflects your mother’s values.”

Here are our thoughts. First, find time to talk with your mother to learn what is most important to her. Ask about what is closest to her heart, those experiences that shaped her, or her vision for the future. You may feel you know her answers, but we suggest asking anyway. You may be surprised, especially if her response doesn’t match what you thought it might be. The conversation itself could be a gift: an opportunity for your mom to share her values with you.

Your next step is research. Which nonprofits bring your mother’s values to life? If she values education and treasures her alma mater, your search should be simple. The same would be true if her choice is her place of worship. If her choices are children’s welfare and development, the environment, hunger, homelessness, or increasing women’s political participation, you will need to research. Look online. Talk to friends, family members, and colleagues. Before giving, do a little more research on the top two or three organizations you feel are a good match. Use charitynavigator.org or guidestar.org, or bbb.org to make sure the organization is legit. The last step before giving is to

Finally, take time to let your mom know what you have done. This is also a time to let her know about the nonprofit’s upcoming events and volunteer opportunities. She can decide if and when she wants to get involved.

Use this method to celebrate the women in your life. Consider young mothers, the women in your neighborhood who helped raise you, or perhaps a favorite teacher. If your mom has passed, honor her with a gift that keeps her legacy alive. We wish you a Happy Mothers’ Day. Copyright 2017 – Mel and Pearl Shaw 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.

Ervin B. Clarke, Publisher publisher@urbanviewsweekly.com

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When a

stroke strikes

seconds count. When a stroke strikes, seconds count. Without blood and oxygen, brain cells can become damaged and may die in just minutes. If you or a loved one is ever stricken, remember that Bon Secours St. Mary’s is a Joint Commission Comprehensive Stroke Center. Recognized for the highest level of care for the most complex stroke cases.

“...the “human factor” plays a role how Inlarge addition, everyin Bon Secours hospital in Richmond is a wellCommission a specific Joint Primary Stroke Care Center, database orrecognized tool for excellence and outcomes. performs.” When a stroke strikes, believe in Bon Secours.

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Urban Views Weekly | May 10, 2017

ViewPoints

Why is there so much secrecy? Dr. Bedden OUT! The very popular and sought after Superintendent of Richmond Public Schools has essentially been fired and nobody is saying exactly why. Neither Dr. Bedden himself nor the Richmond Public School Board members have clearly explained why Dr. Bedden is being forced to step down. Why after his celebrated hire in 2014 and working HARD to retain him when he was being wooed by a prestigious appointment in the Boston Public School System a little more than a year ago, is he now leaving Richmond? What has poisoned the relationship between the Superintendent and his School Board to the point of irreconcilable differences in such a short period of time fully 2 years before his current contract ends?

By Dr. T

to the questions being asked, only more and more rumors, innuendo and false information being scattered about. And that is entirely unsatisfactory for all involved but most importantly it is unfair to the taxpayers of the City of Richmond and the community who depend upon the integrity of the leadership they have elected. Clearly Dr. Bedden’s credentials and former experience make him well qualified for the job of superintendent, and only a few years ago the School Board was in full agreement as they pushed to hire and to keep him here. So what is going on now?

Although there have been questions raised as to the integrity of his doctoral dissertation with regard to appropriate citation protocol, Virginia Tech has not “Dr. Dana T. Bedden holds a doctorate in Educational rescinded his diploma nor disqualified his work. Leadership and Policy Studies from Virginia Tech, a Because the RPS Board has declined comment master’s degree in Educational Administration from and refused to clarify their nearly unanimous Pennsylvania State University, and a bachelor’s degree decision to force Bedden out, they have created from the University of Florida. He also completed an atmosphere of distrust and suspicion. It makes postdoctoral courses in School Business Leadership at one wonder if politics are playing a role in this Wilkes University and attended Harvard University season of discontent? Dr. Bedden’s non-traditional Graduate School of Education Leadership Institute for dissertation focused on the school-to-prisonSuperintendents.  With over 20 years of experience pipeline and how constitutional law applies when in educational leadership, Dr. Bedden has developed students and their property are searched for drugs a results-oriented reputation for improving academic achievement, working with diverse or weapons. Are there some disagreements and dissention surrounding this topic with groups, increasing parent/community involvement, implementing systems-thinking, and school board members, public officials, parents and community activists? It is certainly providing a positive school and work environment. possible but without some type of full disclosure we He has demonstrated effective leadership skills in will never know. There are places around the world Tawnya Pettiford-Wates, Ph.D. standards and performance-based practices, human where governments operate beyond the will of the Founder and Artistic Director resource management, fiscal management, and school/ people; they operate in secrecy and with paternalistic community partnerships.” www.rvaschools.net agendas. Right now, it feels like the RPS board is The Conciliation Project and Associate Professor operating in like manner. We want to know WHY Dr. Virginia Commonwealth University Rumors abound in the community because those Bedden is leaving and we will continue to ask until DrT@Margins2theCenter.com | www.theconciliationproject.org that know won’t say. There are no good answers we have some answers.

“...it is unfair to the taxpayers of the City of Richmond and the community who depend upon the integrity of the leadership they have elected.”

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Scholar of the Week

Phillisha Hopson

of Richmond Community High School GPA: 3.76 College(s) of Interest: Virginia Commonwealth University Major Community Service: Work with her church, a summer camp, and helping with a local elementary school Strong Interests: Clinical radiation science Favorite Activities: Church activities

If someone looks like this, it could be a stroke.

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Whether it be working the projection screen with her pastor’s notes or helping with her mother’s dance ministry, one of Phillisha Hopson’s favorite things to do is participating in church activities. She does a lot of things within the church, but she has also received inspiration from attending. One man at her church shared the story of his stage 4 cancer diagnosis. For about four years, he went back and forth to the hospital and last year he told the church his testimony as a survivor. “His testimony continues to uplift me to the point of wanting to be of some help to people going through this ordeal,” Phillisha stated in an essay. When she listened to him discuss his story, and listened to how he spoke of the doctors and staff who saved his life, Phillisha said she could “see the happiness and thankfulness in his eyes.” This inspired her to become one of those people who helped people of the like him. Because of this, she plans to continue her education and pursue a medical degree with a focus in clinical radiation science.

not sure of the exact direction she’ll go within the radiology field, one particular career she is interested in is working as a radiation therapist, people who help create treatment plans. While she is still in high school, one lesson Phillisha will take with her to college is to always work hard. “Take things a step at a time and not get too stressed,” she said. “Take time to be compressed and calm down, and take a breather and get back at it.” Phillisha currently maintains a 3.76 GPA. She is a member of the Book Club, National Art Honor Society, Key Club, the Community Council and she participated in the VCU Health Science Academy. Outside of her church, she has also volunteered with a local elementary school and volunteered as a teen summer camp counselor. Through ™ volunteering and working Week with so many different people, Phillisha learned just how many different personalities there are.

Scholar0

Because of its top medical school, Phillisha plans to attend Virginia Commonwealth University for college. Along with its medical program, she also likes that it is close to home. “What excited me about radiography is how it directly relates science and technology, my favorite subjects,” she stated. “The science lies with the knowledge of the human body and the technology completes the field by working with machines.” Although she’s

Two of Phillisha’s biggest inspirations are her mother and sister. “She’s a single mom and she basically raised me by herself,” she said about her mother. “She’s a very strong, independent woman.” Phillisha also described her older sister, who is currently a senior at the University of Richmond, as a hard worker. In the future, Phillisha hopes to also inspire others by giving back to her community. One of the ways she plans to do this is by educating others on the importance of radiography and the radiation science field.

Know all of stroke’s warning signs and be ready to act F.A.S.T.

F – Face drooping A – Arm weakness S – Speech difficulty T – Time to call 9-1-1

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Urban Views Weekly | May 10, 2017

Coupons, Thrift Stores, and C you living large while keep When it comes to making life changes, saving money and budgeting is arguably the toughest change to make. It comes with lots of sacrifice, discipline, number-crunching, and saying “no” to those things and activities on which you love to splurge. Usually, going out to eat is the first to go; it’s almost embarrassing to see how much is spent on fast food and fine dining. Sure, a $5 meal seems harmless, but paying the drive-thru a visit a few times a week certainly adds up. Then, to make matters worse is the frivolous spending on clothes, especially during this time of year. For many, temperatures rising means shopping for a new wardrobe is a must. As tempting as it is, discipline is crucial; we’ve got to prioritize our short and long-term financial goals and create new ways to maximize our

income. And believe it or not, making this life change doesn’t have to be as daunting as it sounds. In fact, you can make it fun. Yes, with a little effort, organization, and discipline, saving money can become a hobby your entire family can enjoy. With shopping, coupons are more than those flimsy papers that fill the spaces in your newspapers. While they’ve been around since the early 1900s and became popular during the Great Depression, TIME Business reports that the activity of “couponing” didn’t rise to fame until about 2009. For decades, shoppers have clipped coupons from the morning paper, headed to the grocery stores, and taken advantage of incredible buy-one-get-one deals on food and household items. More recently, however, shows like Extreme Couponing have shown that you can really buy everything you need for next to nothing when couponing is done right. Katia Farmer understands exactly how to “do couponing right.” Dabbling in the hobby nine months ago, she’s now created a system that allows her family to enjoy pantries and closets full of toiletries, cleaning supplies, and food that’ll last months, even years. An episode of Extreme Couponing initially piqued her interest, and she immediately began Googling resources that’ll allow her to join in and save her family hundreds of dollars each month.

Katia Farmer makes couponing a family activity 6

Urban Views Weekly | May 10, 2017

“I watched an episode of Extreme Couponing and knew it was something I

Katia preares to update her coupon book

“...saving money arguably the toughe needed to figure out,” Farmer says. “I didn’t reach out to anyone at first; I wanted to do everything on my own and learn the ropes. I found couponing apps for my phone, and started joining Facebook groups that are basically communities of people posting about the deals they find and sharing digital coupons.” The Facebook groups are also helpful for beginners because you’re made privy to additional resources and learn “insider” secrets like how to combine coupons and use them past the expiration date.

Using coupons to st keeps trips to

Consignment Shops can have ping money in your pocket

and budgeting is est change to make.”

As Farmer gets deeper into the world of extreme couponing, she relies on the help of what are called Coupon Fairies to get deals ahead of time. On Saturdays, the fairies provide each customer with the Sunday paper’s coupons, giving them extra time to clip, organize, and prepare for the upcoming sales. Farmer admits that it’s no easy feat preparing for the new sales; she spends around two to three hours a day twice a week clipping coupons and organizing them into her binder. She categorizes them by hygiene, tock up on essentials household, hair products,

o the store low

By Janna M. Hall

snacks, etc., and tries to keep at least five copies of each coupon in the various sections. “I categorize them, but I don’t keep them chronologically ordered,” she explains. “Many stores actually honor coupons a month after they’ve expired, so I check periodically to make sure I haven’t missed any grace periods.” All of it has certainly paid off, and Farmer has successfully become one of the extreme couponers who have stocked her home with necessities without breaking the bank. In fact, she’s even gotten money back after using coupons to buy air fresheners in bulk. While pretty incredible, Farmer says her most memorable couponing moment was spending only $5 for $80 Sonicare electric toothbrushes. “That was the best deal I’ve gotten thus far with couponing,” she says. “I had a few coupons for $30 off a Sonicare toothbrush, and when I got to the store, I saw they had them on sale for $34.99. I bought a few for my family at only $5 a piece.” Thanks to the deals she receives each week, Farmer now has the entire family in on her hobby, with her husband helping clip and organize the binder multiple times a week. She loves sharing deals with family and friends, eager to spread the word on how she’s saved hundreds stocking up on items she knows the family will use forever. Coupons don’t just save you money on household items and groceries, but also experiences. Thanks to discount sites like Groupon and Living Social, customers may find coupons for dinner for two at local restaurants, discounts on services like massages and gym memberships, and even vacations. Yes, with the “Getaways” section of Groupon, you’re able to find discounted international and domestic trips for two (with airfare included!). It was the rise of these sites that made couponing more popular, and it serves as a great marketing tool for local businesses looking to expand their reach. Customers may download the app or visit the site, purchase the deal right on the spot, and have it in their arsenal to use until the deal expires. It’s truly changed the game of

Katia’s collection of household items

consumerism in Richmond and beyond. Where couponing and online deals may be the easier route to saving money, thrifting is an excellent—but more challenging—way to save on gently used clothes. Richmond has no shortage of thrift stores that boast an inventory of men’s and women’s clothing at a fraction of the retail value. From business suits and dress shoes to handbags and jewelry, thrifting is becoming wildly popular among those who want to wear designer but have to cut back on major spending. Thrift stores and consignment shops are ideal for the shopaholic; unlike traditional retailers who have everything sectioned off by style, size, and color, these stores only separate items by category and size, so it requires quite a bit of digging. And sure, you may have to thumb through each selection and peek at everything to find the right pick for you, but that’s the fun in it! Many have taken on thrifting as a hobby and have padded their closet with vintage designer clothing and unique accessories that they won’t catch many others wearing.

Photos courtesy of Janna M. Hall

www.UrbanViewsWeekly.com

By Janna M. Hall

American Stroke Month: Identifying Risk Factors Did You Know? According to the Centers for Disease Control, about 795,000 Americans have a stroke each year. It’s the fifth leading cause of death in the United States, and one of the primary causes of serious disability in adults over age 55. While strokes are both preventable and treatable, African Americans at large are disproportionately affected, experiencing more strokerelated death and disability than any other racial group. Why is this?

“Someone in the U.S. has a stroke every four seconds, and every four minutes, someone dies from it,” Dr. Sangha says. “Projections show that by year 2030, about 3.4 million U.S. adults aged 18 and over will have had a stroke, which is 20.5% increase from 2012.” www.UrbanViewsWeekly.com So, why the increase, if risk factors are identifiable? Unfortunately, old habits die hard, and making lifestyle changes isn’t always easy and sustainable without a concrete plan. Lifestyle Changes that Lower Your Chances of Stroke

Urban Views Weekly met with Dr. Amandeep S. Sangha, M.D. of Bon Secours Neurology Clinic at St. Mary’s Hospital, to discuss the trend of stroke in the African American community, identify risk factors, and learn about stroke projections.

Monitor your health closely. Schedule routine check-ups with your doctor to monitor blood pressure and glucose numbers, and create a regimen that allows you to take any prescribed medication as needed.

When comparing the risk factors of stroke to diseases already prevalent in the black community, the correlation is alarmingly clear.

Incorporate exercise into your routine. Carve out time to stay active, even if you’re walking the neighborhood for 30 minutes a few times a week. Any amount of time active is better than staying dormant, making your body susceptible to obesity.

“Strokes are more prevalent in the African American community, and part of this is because of genetics,” explains Dr. Sangha. “High blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol has high prevalence in that community, which makes them more vulnerable to developing strokes compared to the other [races].” The numbers are truly staggering: • According to the American Heart Association, there may be a gene that makes African Americans more saltsensitive. Knowing this, it’s no surprise that hypertension or high blood pressure develops earlier in life for blacks than their white counterparts, and oftentimes, it’s more severe. In fact, more than 40% of black men and women will experience high blood pressure in their lifetime. • As it pertains to obesity, another risk factor for stroke, 76.3% of non-Hispanic black men and women are considered overweight or obese, compared to 68.5% of whites.

Urban Views Weekly | May 10, 2017

• Lastly is diabetes. The American Diabetes Association reports that a shocking 4.9 million African Americans aged 20 years or older have diagnosed diabetes, making the Black community 77% more likely to have diagnosed diabetes compared to non-Hispanic whites. Complications with diabetes is also 46% more prevalent in the Black community. Knowing this information, it’s imperative that the African American community use research about risk factors and statistical data to prevent themselves from becoming a statistic.

Revamp your diet. Say no to indulging in sodium-heavy meals, processed foods, and those cakes and pies you crave. Moderation is key! Swap your go-to junk food for healthy alternatives, and nourish your mind and body with more fruits and vegetables instead of potato chips and pies. Most importantly, learn the signs of stroke so you can identify and call 9-1-1 right away. Time is the most important factor in a strong and speedy recovery; the quicker you can identify that you’re in trouble, the quicker your treatment can occur. “It’s estimated that every minute, about 2 million neurons die as the stroke progresses,” warns Dr. Sangha. “So it’s extremely important to seek immediate attention when someone develops symptoms of stroke.”

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Five Richmond High Schools Named Among the Best in the Nation Richmond Community High School #17 in the Region

Five Richmond High Schools have been named among the best in the nation. U.S. News & World Report ranked Richmond Community as Silver (No. 17 in the region) followed by Franklin Military Academy, George Wythe, Huguenot and John Marshall high schools that were all ranked as Bronze in the annual “Best High Schools” report. The “Best High Schools” rankings identify the country’s top-performing public high schools with the goal to provide a balanced snapshot of how well public schools serve all students in preparing them to demonstrate proficiency in basic skill sets as well as readiness for college-level work. U.S. News nationally ranked the 6,041 highest-scoring schools as gold, silver or bronze in the 2017 rankings. To be eligible for a state ranking, a school must be awarded a national gold, silver or bronze medal. Virginia is home to 118 schools ranked in 2017. There are a number of data sources used to produce the rankings to include each high school’s statewide accountability proficiency test results and graduation rate. Additionally, College Board was used as the source of the Advanced Placement test data for each public high school, when applicable, that were used to create calculated values used in the rankings. To learn more about the rankings and to view the entire report, visit usnews.com/education/best-high-schools.

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Urban Views Weekly | May 10, 2017

The Deal

Can You Coupon Without the Extreme? Following the Great Recession, it seemed like extreme couponing was a competitive sport. You could watch on TV as shoppers, armed with binders full of clipped coupons and an in-depth knowledge of stores’ policies, would get incredible discounts at the checkout counter.

Learning about and comparing options before making major purchases, such as a home or car, makes sense. A small change in your mortgage’s interest rate could save or cost you tens of thousands of dollars. Comparing two new phones could save a few hundred dollars when it comes time to purchase.

Extreme couponing may not be as popular today, but the Recession gave many people an appreciation for living a frugal lifestyle. That’s a good thing. Living within one’s means is a core tenet of practicing good financial habits and couponing can help you achieve this goal. However, as with most things in life, you want to try and find a healthy balance and look for ways to coupon without the extreme.

Smaller recurring savings, such as the previously mentioned grocery runs, can certainly add up in the long run. If you’ve got a tried-andtrue method that’s working for you, go for it. Just make sure you get a good return on the time and effort you put in.

Make the most out of your couponing. Whether you’re on your weekly grocery run or making a major purchase, a discount can always be helpful. However, be wary of buying products you don’t regularly need or use simply because you have a coupon or there’s a sale. Some people might choose to avoid temptation by looking for coupons after the items are in their cart. With a smartphone in hand, you can use a savings app to look for savings while you’re waiting to check out. Another option, that might require a bit more time and strategy, is to plan your meals for the week ahead of time. You can write down your shopping list and spend five or ten minutes looking for applicable coupons before heading to the store. You might also choose to look at the coupons available and plan your meals for the week based off of what’s on sale.

No matter what tactics you use, the point is to save money on items that you will use, not to purchase merchandise simply because it’s discounted. Invest your time proportionately to the potential savings. The time investment that an attempt at extreme couponing can require doesn’t always match the potential savings. Spending hours couponing and winding up saving $1.50 probably isn’t worth the time commitment. A less extreme method is to consider the potential savings and spend a proportional amount of time researching products and looking for savings opportunities. But many people don’t take this approach. A survey conducted by Ipsos on behalf of Zillow in 2016 found that on average, people spent eight hours researching mortgages or mortgage refinancing; 11 hours researching a new car or truck; and four hours researching a new phone, tablet or TV. Almost a fifth of those surveyed spent an hour or less shopping for their home mortgage.

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If you find joy in the hunt that’s okay too. There are always exceptions and there are times when putting the extreme in couponing makes perfect sense. For example, there are extreme couponers who view their interest and practice as a hobby, and coupon because it can be enjoyable to hunt for deals. While most hobbies cost money — this is one that could actually lead to savings. There are also extreme couponers who figure out ways to get free products and then donate them to a local charity. It’s a win-win for the couponer and those in need. Bottom line: While saving money is important, and can be fun, try not to become so enthralled by potential savings that you lose sight of the purpose — to spend less money on what you want or need. If you are going to invest your time in money-saving endeavors, make sure you can potentially get a good return on your investment. Nathaniel Sillin directs Visa’s financial education programs. To follow Practical Money Skills on Twitter: www.twitter.com/PracticalMoney

Central Virginia African American Chamber of Commerce

Southern Kitchen

1726 East Main Street | Richmond, VA 23223 Free for Members | Non-Members $10.00 RSVP online at www.CVAACC.org Central Virginia African American Chamber of Commerce Email: Info@CVAACC.org • Phone: 804-823-7745 Join the chamber by going online to www.CVAACC.org

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Sales Representative Needed Independent Contractor

Imagine hitting the jackpot, but because of a technicality, you go home empty-handed. Jan Flato doesn’t have to imagine it; he lived it. Flato supplied the money for a slot machine at a casino in Florida but a female companion pushed the button for good luck, which hit a top prize of $100,000.

If you possess: An entrepreneurial spirit A love of advertising and marketing A strong desire to meet new clients A competitive spirit Presentation skills Tenacity

But, there is one big problem; casino policy mandates that the person who pushes the button or pulls the lever is the jackpot winner. Flato’s female companion walked away with the $100,000 jackpot.

What’s Your Take? Who do you think deserves the jackpot? 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

Urban Views Weekly is looking for two talented professionals who can work independently and present our printed and digital products to local businesses. This is a perfect opportunity for an “early retired” professional to earn excellent extra income, stay engaged and to grow your circle of contacts. Set the work schedule that best suits you and your clients. If you would like to explore this opportunity, email a cover letter and resume to:

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Urban Views Weekly | May 10, 2017

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