Inspire, Inform & Educate
OCTOBER 2008
Rick Noriega State Representative
Edition
“Changing for the Better”
Goodwille Pierre Attorney
C.O. “Brad” Bradford Attorney
Hazel Jones Attorney
Judge Maria Jackson Attorney
Alexandra Smoots-Hogan Attorney
Al Bennett Attorney
Peter Brown Houston City Council
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Vondalyn Hall Serene Treatment Spa Services
Keith J. Davis, Jr., Barack Obama & MR. D-MARS
Jim Sharp Attorney
Photo by Andre Humphery
James Pope The Pope Law Firm
Dr. Phyllis J. Morgan D.D.S. Morgan & Associates Dental Office
Larry Thurman APS Construction
OCTOBER 2008
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Publisher’s Message
Keith J. Davis, Sr. SR. PUBLISHER Keith J. Davis, Sr. JR. PUBLISHER Keith J. Davis, Jr. VICE PRESIDENT Kevin Davis EDITING CONSULTANT ReShonda Tate-Billingsley OPERATIONS COORDINATOR Jennifer Cobb ACCOUNTING MANAGER Eugenie Doualla PHOTOGRAPHY Leon Galbreath MARKETING CONSULTANTS Bernard Johnson Larry Isles CT Foster MULTIMEDIA DIRECTOR Andrea Hennekes LAYOUT & GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Ghuzzala Malik (Faith) Joshua Paul Broussard DISTRIBUTION Booker T. Davis, Jr. Rockie Hayden CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Ronald E. Reynolds, Esq. Dr. D.L. Jones Christina Robinson-Grochett Dr. Ka-Ron Wade, D.D.S. Carla Lane Elvia Valdez Burt Levine Jennifer Cobb Rob Walter Lorenzo Ewing Vondalyn Hall Dr. Wendy
OCTOBER 2008
For many, change has become the buzz word of 2008. Made popular by presidential contender Barack Obama, change has come to symbolize a natural progression we must all make to better our lives. Barack’s message of change - while many may see it coming from a political perspective - is indeed much more. Change is necessary in order to improve. As my grandmother used to say, “If you keep doing what you’ve been doing, you’re going to keep getting what you’ve been getting.” I don’t know about you, but what I’ve been getting isn’t good enough. Don’t get me wrong, I’m happy about the success I’ve had thus far and I know that I am one blessed brother. But I want more. I want to take my business to the next level, branch out and conquer unchartered territory. I have so many goals yet to come to fruition and I know the key to achieving them is to embrace change. Whether you’re looking to make small steps with your business or a huge leap to the next level, embracing change can help you get there. By that I mean, changing everything from your level of education, to changing the way you do business, or even changing your circle of friends. In this issue, you will be guaranteed to find articles to help you embrace change. I’m confident that you will walk away empowered. Of course, I can’t end without reminding you to exercise your right to vote in this historical election. You owe it to those who died for that right. You owe it to your future. You owe it to yourself.
CONTENTS Campaign Brings Change to Country and Community...............................4 TWEF, Empowering Women with the 20K Power Grant..............................5 Big Brothers Big Sisters……………...………...............................................6 It’s Time for a Change................................................................................11 Politicians.…....…..................................................................................11-13 Tough Times...............................................................................................14 A Change for the Better..…......…...............................................................15 Is It Time for Career Change......................................................................16 Time For Change........................................................................................22 The Houston “Survior” Challenge............................................……………23 Change your Negative Attitude and Better your Sales!.............................24 Disaster Contracting……………………….............................................…..25 APS Construction………………………….............................................…..26 Body Maintenance……………………….............................................…….31 2008 Pinnacle Award Finalists…………............................................……..32 Be Prepared for Changing Times…….........................................…………33 The Pope Law Firm…………………….........................................…………34
MR. D-MARS
D-MARS Business Journal
Tip of the Month
9898 Bissonnet, Suite 570 Houston, Texas 77036 713-272-9511 . Phone 713-272-6364 . Fax 1-800-453-8752 . Toll Free www.d-mars.com
If nothing Changes nothing Changes
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CAMP
AIGN BRINGS CHANGE
TO Country and Community
By Burt Levine Contributing Writer Change is on the horizon. Regardless of who wins the presidential election, change is coming to our country, our counties and our community. You can have a say in just what that change will be. On Nov. 4th, your input is needed at the polls. Elections do have consequence for all citizens, small and big business, cops and courts, colleges and commerce, hospitals, roads, bridges, schools and even football, baseball and basketball stadiums. It is elections that decided local sports venues could get more than $1 billion in construction costs. Everyone over the age of 18 that is a US Citizen and not a convicted felon should have ensured that they were registered to vote by October 6. Voting is the most American activity there is and from beaches of Normandy to bridges of Birmingham, Alabama in the past century our grandparents and great grandparents generations bled and were beaten to secure the right to vote. It is critical everyone makes educated choices for change to come to them and does not simply let change happen to them based on what a parent, preacher or teacher tells them or what a television ad advises you to do. While the elections this fall will capture most folks’ attention because of historic races that will make Barack Obama the first African-American U.S. President or Sarah Palin the first female US Vice President, it is races for the U.S. Senate that could elect State Rep. Rick Noriega Texas’ first Hispanic U.S. Senator or push U.S. Senator John Cornyn up to a higher leadership role with more seniority in the U.S. Senate. Statewide, voters of color and those of conscience should vote with caution when crying for change. Texas now is the only state of all 50 to feature three African Americans in elected statewide seats. Chief Justice of the Supreme Court Wallace Jefferson is Texas’ first African-American Chief of its highest court. Supreme Court Justice Dale Wainwright is Texas’ first African-American to sit a Supreme Court seat having without having been appointed to it first and Texas Railroad Commission Chairman Michael Williams is Texas’ first African-American to oversee an executive statewide post. Congressional races will see if incumbents Nick Lampson, John Culberson, Sheila Jackson Lee and Gene Green are changed from office. County races could bring change in many offices. Incumbent Harris County Judge Ed Emmett was appointed nearly two years ago when Robert Eckels resigned. He faces businessman David Mincberg vying to become the county’s first Jewish County Judge. CO Bradford is running to become the county’s first AfricanAmerican District Attorney. Pat Lykos, if she wins, would be the county’s first female DA. Houston City Councilman and Mayor Pro-Tem Adrian Garcia could become the county’s first Hispanic sheriff. There are races for judge that could bring many new minorities, including African Americans, Hispanics, Asians, Gays and Jews to the bench for the first time in Harris County history. There are critical races for change in many state representative seats and county races. These races may be on the bottom of the ballot. However, they are as important as President of the United States.
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By: Sharon C. Jenkins Women are genetically designed to be vessels that carry life giving power. We that has been in business for at least 12 months and has illustrated a commitment have the potential to birth nations into existence, but first a seed must be planted. A to community service and involvement. This infusion of professional services and similar analogy is the common everyday light bulb, which has the ability to produce financial assistance will help a local small businesswoman shine brighter in the enough electrical power to illuminate an entire room. All you have to do is turn on the marketplace. switch. Now that’s true empowerment!
The grant will provide all the needed components to enhance a woman’s business,
Darlene W. Coachman, the Vice President of Administration with Glennlock Foods while focusing on their business needs, professional and personal growth, and health and a recent nominee for the Top 25 Women of Houston stated that she got her consciousness. The recipient will receive invaluable coaching, mentoring, training, power from her mom, Geraldine Duronslet. Mrs. Duronslet raised “eight” successful products and services, from numerous community partners in addition to a monetary female businesswomen, so she knew what empowered a woman to reach her fullest award. The applicants will be recognized at the “Top 25 Women of Houston” on potential. Her mantra was “Don’t sit back for others to do for you what you’re perfectly October 29, 2008, at The Crystal Ballroom in downtown Houston. The profiles of the capable of doing for yourself.” In other words, once you know that you’re a light bulb finalists will be posted on this website for final selection by the Houston community. begin to shine.
Their goal is to ensure that the recipient is well balanced; and equipped to reach
Well, a local organization, The Texas Women’s Empowerment Foundation (TWEF), the heights in business that she dreams of achieving. TWEF membership is not that has been empowering women for the last twelve years is starting a new grant required, but recommended. For more information go to www.powergrantonline.com initiative called the 20K Power Grant. In direct alignment with the Foundation’s or contact Helon Hammond at 832-327-0953. mission, they are offering a $20,000 business grant for an entrepreneurial woman
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If one good thing came out of Hurricane Ike, it is what happened when the lights went off. Lack of power drove many Houstonians out of our homes and into conversations with neighbors. We shared supplies, stories, sympathy and in some cases, power. We got to know the folks who live just feet away from us. It was the one bright spot that shone through Ike’s dark clouds – the spark of communities connecting. But now, as the lights slowly return, where will that community spirit go? Don’t let it blow away. It is time to make it a regular part of our lives, rather than part of our “emergency plan.” Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Houston (BBBS) can help you by providing a fun, easy way to volunteer as a mentor to a child. BBBS makes connections between volunteer mentors (Bigs) and children (Littles) who want or need one. Our Bigs are simply friends with their Littles. They hang out and talk about what’s going on in their lives. They share experiences and stories. It’s like connecting with that neighbor, except this time you are helping a child by being there to listen. OCTOBER 2008
One-to-one mentoring isn’t just a fun way to give back to your community – it has a big impact. Research shows that kids who have a mentor are less likely to try drugs and alcohol, and more likely to succeed in school. If you think you don’t have enough time, think about this: It only takes four hours a month. That’s a couple of afternoons. You don’t have to spend money – there are plenty of free things to do. Your attention is what’s priceless. Right now, BBBS is looking for more Big Brothers to help out some Little Brothers. To sign up or find out more, visit the agency’s website at www.gobighouston.org, or call (713) 860-8211.
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IT’S TIME FOR A
CHANGE
more than history and ethic pride. African-Americans feel Obama best represents the needs and concerns of their community, even though he rarely addresses the issue of race in his campaigning. Actually, not hitting on issues that concern AfricanAmericans has cost him among some of the old guard, like Jessie Jackson and Rev. Al Sharpton. What Jackson and
measurable improvement in our country’s relationship with Sharpton don’t seem to understand is the same problems the rest of the world. That the candidate who has generated that impact African-Americans; jobs, education, economy, widespread hope of substantive change is African American are issues of concern for ALL of America. Obama has a is almost inconsequential when weighed against these clear and correct understanding that he must represent an entire nation and not one segment of that nation.
heavy issues. And yet there is an immense sense of pride in the fact
There is ample reason for great pride but we also
that the next President could very well be a Black man. have work to do. What should be the focus of the AfricanA Black male Ivy League graduate who has demonstrated American community during the presidential election his commitment to African-American interests by working campaign during an Obama presidency? The issues we at the grass-roots level, in places too few of us are willing face in the 2008 presidential election will reverberate to live and labor on behalf of our communities. We have through the generations: war, Supreme Court nominations,
By Ron Reynolds, Esq. Contributing Writer
a candidate who is both the first Black President of the housing foreclosures and many more. The American people Harvard Law Review and a community organizer on the truly stand at a crossroads. Age (McCain), race (Obama) and gender (Palin) have never played such a prominent
streets of Chicago. The most important general election of our lifetime is
That said, Obama’s ethnicity is certainly a big role in role in a presidential election. But let’s hope the personal
underway. For the first time in American history, a viable why he is doing so well among African-American voters, values of the voters will be the most important issue. I can African-American candidate has the opportunity to become where he enjoys more than 90 percent voter support. say with great assurance, I believe that will be the case President of The United States of America. We don’t have to However, to think Obama’s race is the only reason African- with most African-Americans. Casting the wrong vote or be an economist to be surprised by the major crisis with our Americas vote for him is naive. Obama’s overwhelming not voting at all is too high a price for more of the same! economy. The next President will have to repair the failed support is about the same as Bill Clinton and Al Gore Barack Obama is a profoundly, prolific, political pillar that economic, domestic and international policies of George received from African-Americans. Of course, the African- we can depend on. Let’s make history together and change W. Bush. Significant change in the White House, and the American community is drawn to Obama because of the the face of American. As Sam Cooke so eloquently song world, is suddenly achievable: repair of the damage done historic nature of his candidacy. There are generations of in one of the most profound R&B songs to hit the charts by eight years of Bush policies, a reduction in Republican African-Americans like my 75-year-old grandmother, who during the Civil Rights Movement, “it’s been a long time dominance in some local and statewide offices, a surge lived nearly half of her life in a segregated society and coming’, but a change is gonna come…and that change in public interest in our participatory democracy, and thought they would never see a day like this. But this is far is Barack Obama!!!
C.O. “Brad” Bradford for Harris County District Attorney C. O. “Brad” Bradford has dedicated his career to criminal law, public safety and from 1996-2003, serving as chief for both Mayor Bob Lanier and Mayor Lee P. Brown. He criminal justice and he will bring that dedication to the job of Harris County District managed over 7,000 employees and a $500 million annual budget for a city of more than Attorney. As District Attorney, Bradford pledges to obey the law, respect the principle of justice
600 square miles. During Bradford’s tenure as Police Chief, citizens’ fear of crime and public safety
and pursue the truth. He will change the culture of that office from “win at all costs” to the concerns went from a high of 59% in 1996 to 10% in 2003. (Dr. Stephen L. Klineberg, pursuit of justice and public safety. In recent years, Harris County citizens have seen crime rise, their jails become
Rice University) Chief Bradford was part of the leadership team that developed and implemented
overcrowded and their taxes increase. As D.A., Bradford will vigorously prosecute violent community policing strategies in Houston. He also implemented many other significant offenders. However, for those who commit non-violent misdemeanors, those who are first programs and initiatives during his administration. Among them are the Hate Crime offenders, and those who need help because they are substance abusers or are mentally Program, Racial Profiling Prohibition Policy, Decentralized Family Violence Unit, Top 10 Sex ill, Bradford will find ways to divert those people into pre-trial intervention, alternative Offenders/Parole Violators Program and the first Crime Victims Services Unit. sentencing and other programs that will keep them out of jail and help them overcome their problems. He believes it’s the right thing to do and it’s good fiscal stewardship.
Bradford has been a licensed attorney for 15 years with a law degree from the University of Houston Law Center, criminal justice degree from Grambling State University and public
As DA, Bradford will work with the community to prevent and reduce crime. He will affairs degree from Texas Southern University. He served as a partner in the law firm of create a special DWI Prosecution Squad to keep families safe from drunk drivers. He will Kelley & Bradford, LLP. Today, he works as a Senior Associate in the international consulting work with youth by pursing the creation of Teen Courts in Justice of the Peace precincts. firm of Brown Group International offering services in the areas of Public Safety, Homeland He will establish a Professional Standards Division in the DA’s office—no more sexism, Security, Litigation Support, Government Relations and Community Government. racism or religious persecution. Bradford will advocate for a public defender’s office, grand juries chosen by random
He is married to Dr. Dee Jackson. They have a son, Cole, and daughter, Claire. C.O. “Brad” Bradford will restore integrity and ethics to the Harris County District
selection with hours accessible to working people, and a regional independent crime lab. Attorney’s office. Bradford served 24 years with the Houston Police Department, seven years as Chief OCTOBER 2008
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HAZEL JONES ForJUDGE
338TH CRIMINAL DISTRICT
COURT
“Life isn’t always fair, but when you’re in the four corners of a courtroom it absolutely should be fair to all persons----- and it will be fair once I am elected as judge.”
Hazel Jones
Democratic Nominee For James Goodwille Pierre attended Morehouse College in Atlanta, Georgia from 1983-1986 and Georgia State University from 1987-1989 where he earned a Bachelors Degree in Chemistry with a Minor in Physics. He later received a Masters in Education from the University of Central Florida and his Doctor of Jurisprudence from South Texas College of Law in 2000. Goodwille Pierre is licensed in the Supreme Court of Texas, The Federal Southern District of Texas and the United States Patent and Trademark Office.
Judge
I was born and reared in Houston, Texas. I developed a sense of commitment to the Houston community from my parents who were both school teachers in Harris County. I graduated Magna Cum Laude from M.B. Smiley H.S. I received my Bachelor of Arts degree in Biology from the University of Texas at Austin where I was a Texas Achievement Award Scholar and where I became a lifelong member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
After graduation, I worked in Leukemia Research at M.D. Anderson Cancer Center. While I found my work in cancer research very rewarding, I heeded a Goodwille previously served as the District Director for Congresswoman Sheila personal calling to pursue a career in law. I attended Howard University Law School and graduated with a Doctor of Jurisprudence degree in 1996. I returned to Houston Jackson Lee (D-18th TX). In this role, he was responsible for managing the overall where I studied and passed the Texas Bar Exam in that same year.
operation of the 18th Congressional District while developing synergy between the District Office and the D.C. Office. In addition, he represented the Congresswoman at various meetings and events in the district; nurtured and established constituent relationships throughout the district, while working with elected officials at the city, county and state levels to help with all community needs.
I have been an active member of Houston’s legal community since 1996. I served as a Harris County Assistant D.A. (1996-2003); I also worked at the U.S. Attorneys Office as a Special Assistant U.S. Attorney (2003-2005). Currently, I am a criminal defense attorney. I ensure that my clients are getting quality representation and that their constitutional rights are being upheld. You can find out more about me and my campaign at www.hazeljonesforjudge.org & hazeljonesforjudge@yahoo. com.
James Goodwille Pierre is an active servant of the community, and a well respected attorney. Among other organizations in which he is active, Goodwille Pierre is a Director on the Board of the State Bar of Texas, Member at Large to the Board of Directors of the National Bar Association, Immediate Past Chair of the African American Lawyers Section of the State Bar of Texas, Past President of the Houston Lawyers Association, Board Member to the Legislative Division of the Earl Carl Institute at the Thurgood Marshal School of Law, Deacon at the Community of Faith Church and a subscribing life member of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People. Goodwille is a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. 100 Black Men of America-Metropolitan Houston Chapter, Houston Intellectual Property Law Association, Houston Bar Association, Houston Lawyers Association, and the National Bar Association, He is married to his wonderful wife of twelve years, Jacquelyn Tinsley, a native of Houston, Texas. He also has two beautiful daughters Joi Candace, 12 and Jada Elaine, 5. OCTOBER 2008
Meet the Candidate Ms. Smoots-Hogan was born and raised in Southeast Houston, Texas. She is the only child of Sylvia Alexander Smoots, a retired home economics/computer science HISD teacher, and W. Bernard Smoots, a retired marketing consultant. At a young age, Ms. Smoots-Hogan excelled in academics and was quickly accepted at the Kinkaid School. While at Kinkaid, Ms. Smoots-Hogan joined the school’s nationally recognized and award-winning policy debate team. It was during her time with the debate team, where Ms. Smoots-Hogan solidified her love of the law. Ms. Smoots-Hogan travelled across the country with the debate team, bringing home several national speaker and debate awards. www.
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After graduating from the Kinkaid School, Ms. Smoots-Hogan moved to Austin to attend the University of Texas at Austin. While in Austin, Ms. Smoots-Hogan maintained studies in government and journalism. Ms. Smoots-Hogan was also very active in the Student Government at UT Austin. During her junior year at UT Austin, Ms. Smoots-Hogan returned home to Houston to care for her then-ailing father. Ms. Smoots-Hogan completed her undergraduate studies at the University of St. Thomas. While at the University of St. Thomas, Ms. Smoots-Hogan became a columnist for the campus newspaper and was elected as an officer in the Student Government. Ms. Smoots-Hogan graduated with an Honors degree in Communications, with focus on print and broadcast journalism.
for Judge
61st Civil District Court
Ms. Smoots-Hogan spent her spare time in her latter college years being a part-time reporter/disc jockey for her family-owned radio station heard throughout South Houston/ Richmond/Bay City. Ms. Smoots-Hogan also served as the station’s director of operations, during her father’s illness.
Bio Al Bennett of
Though Ms. Smoots-Hogan had built an appreciation for communications, she returned to her love of the law and was accepted to South Texas College of Law. During the summer after her first year of law school, Ms. Smoots-Hogan began a lengthy clerkship with Abraham, Watkins, Sorrels, Nichols & Friend, a prominent plaintiffs’ law firm. During her second year of law school, Ms. Smoots-Hogan won a spot on the nationally ranked Trial Advocacy team. During her law school tenure, Ms. Smoots-Hogan won three National Moot Court titles, two speaker awards, and two briefing awards. After completing her legal studies and a clerkship/contract attorney position with Stephen Carrigan, Ms. Smoots-Hogan was asked to join the trial section at Brown McCarroll’s Houston Office. Ms. Smoots-Hogan spent the next three and a half years making weekly visits to the Courthouse engaging in heavy motion practice and taking over 75 substantive witness, party, and expert depositions. Ms. Smoots-Hogan also acted as first and second chair at several trials.
A fourth generation Texan, Al Bennett moved to Houston in 1983 to attend the University of Houston. Al earned a Bachelor of Science degree with a major in Political Science and a minor in Business Administration in May 1988. While attending UH, Al served as Speaker of the Student Senate in his junior year and later as an intern in the prestigious
After a brief stint at Zimmerman, Axelrad, Myers, Stern & Wise, Ms. Smoots-Hogan joined the litigation boutique of Powers & Slay for two years. While at Powers & Slay, Ms. Smoots-Hogan continued with weekly Courthouse visits for heavy motion practice and trial, as well as taking over 100 witness and expert depositions. Ms. Smoots-Hogan also began to change her focus to acquiring additional clients and begin the process of entering solo law practice. In October 2008, Ms. Smoots-Hogan opened her own office for the practice of law. Currently and throughout her career, Ms. Smoots-Hogan actively defends individuals, homeowners, small companies, and municipalities. Licensed to practice throughout the State of Texas and in the Southern District of Texas for the United States District Courts, Ms. Smoots-Hogan’s practice areas are commercial litigation, construction litigation, real estate law and litigation, insurance law (first-party and third-party claims), U.S.C. § 1983 claims, family law and personal injury litigation.
Mickey Leland UH/TSU Congressional Internship Program in Washington, D.C. Al then went on to attend the University of Texas School of Law, graduating in May 1991. While at UT Law School, Al was elected president of the student body and permanent class president. His first job out of law school was at the international law firm of law firm of Fulbright & Jaworski, L.L.P. As an associate at the firm for three years, Al worked on a variety of complex commercial and tort litigation matters. He then spent the next four years as a senior associate with the litigation boutique firm of Solar & Fernandes, L.L.P. again working on complex commercial and tort litigation matters. In 1998, Al became solo practitioner specializing in representing small businesses and individuals involved in complex commercial and tort litigation matters. Since 2003, Al has also taught trial simulation at Texas Southern University’s Thurgood Marshall School of Law as an Adjunct Professor. In August 2007, Al received his certification as a mediator from the A.A. White Dispute
A life-long Houstonian, Ms. Smoots-Hogan lives with her husband of nine years, Eric, Resolution Center located at the University of Houston School of Law. and their three-year old son, Aedan Cade. Eric is a Project Manager for JE Dunn of Texas, a Al’s community involvement is highlighted by his service as President of the large general contractor. Mr. Hogan has worked on and led several high profile commercial building projects, most notably the Reliant Center in Reliant Park. Aedan Cade attends Houston Lawyers Association in 1997-1998, serving as a member of the District 4A nursery school at St. Martin’s Episcopal Children’s Center. Grievance Committee from June 2002 – June 2004, serving as a board member of the East Downtown Management District from 1999 to 2006, and currently serving Along with her growing law practice and judicial aspirations, Ms. Smoots-Hogan is very active in her community and with several charitable organizations. Due to her own childhood health issues and family members afflicted with cancer, Ms. Smoots-Hogan is avid supporter of children’s and cancer charities. Ms. Smoots-Hogan is also passionate about the advancement of women in professional careers. Accordingly, Ms. Smoots-Hogan is an active member of several community organizations geared toward that mission and acts as a mentor for several aspiring women. OCTOBER 2008
as president of the Parkwood Drive Civic Club and as a board member of the OST/ Almeda Corridors Redevelopment Authority & Reinvestment Zone Number Seven. Al has been recognized by the Thurgood Marshall Legal Society for Distinguished Service (1990), and was honored with a Houston Lawyers Association Achievement Award (1998). He has been rated AV (very high to preeminent legal ability) in the Martindale-Hubbell Legal Directory since 2001. www.
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Lose customers to boost profits. Growing your customer base by 30 percent sounded good a year
How your small business can make it through
ago, but a gross profit analysis could reveal that it was a mistake, given the expenses you had to add to service those customers. Consider cutting off these 10 customers who are the least profitable, paying you the slowest and giving you the most grief. By doing that, you can pare
Just one year ago, all was well: Business was line is consistently negative, the status quo is not down your staff, reduce your overhead and make more humming along nicely, the checks were rolling in, and sustainable. Your payables are another good gauge. profit with less revenues. you had to boost staff numbers to handle growth. But If they’re getting older and older, that can be a clear lately, things are too quiet: You’ve lost several customers sign of trouble. because of their financial troubles, and other customers
Forfeit pay. Take out enough to feed your family and pay taxes, and leave the rest in the company’s coffers. If
If you find that you need to borrow a lot of money or the situation gets desperate, consider asking your staff to
are paying late. Your accounts have dipped like crazy, run up your credit card to make payroll, that’s another forfeit one week of payroll, which can save the company and you’ve realized quite suddenly that if this continues, red flag that something needs to be done now. you might not have enough money to make next month’s payroll.
thousands of dollars. Some employees may be spooked
If you suspect you’re having moderate to severe by the ominous tone, but if you have a serious, coherent cash-flow problems, take these four steps to help plan for how you’re going to get out of the mess, they will
With home equity loans and other fast credit harder stem the tide. to come by these days, a little bit of trouble can be that
often stick around.
Cut costs strategically. Don’t just slash 10
Review your plan. Whenever the market or economy
much harder to handle. But by recognizing the warning percent across the board. Look at every single expense changes, review your business model to make sure you signs and acting on them, you can ward off some of the and say, ‘If I reduce this, will I remain in business or can profit in the new climate. If you’re losing customers, cash flow problems. For starters, assess your cash-flow situation and
question why you’re not relevant to them. If necessary,
go out of business?’
But be careful not to cut services that will reduce tweak your offerings or add customized services to appeal
set up a daily flash report to tell you the amount of your profits. If your customers value your outstanding to more clients. You have to figure out what it is that’s cash on hand, the status of accounts receivable and service, reducing your call center headcount won’t unique about you. how much is coming in and going out. If the bottom help cement their loyalty.
Diabetes AND
Oral Health
Diabetics often suffer from diminished salivary flow and infection in the mouth. There is also a connection and burning mouth or tongue. They may also develop between diabetes and periodontal (gum) disease. dry mouth which may cause an increased incidence
Because diabetes reduces the body’s resistance to
of decay. Gum recession occurs more frequently and infection, the gums of diabetics are among the tissues more extensively in moderate and poorly controlled likely to be compromised by the disease, thus causing diabetics.
periodontal disease. Periodontal diseases are infections of
Patients with diabetes appear to lack important the gum and bone that hold your teeth in place. Periodontal knowledge about the oral health complications of their disease is often linked to the control of diabetes. For disease and what oral health problems associated with example, patients with inadequate blood sugar control the disease.
appear to develop periodontal disease more often and
Diabetics are more prone to tooth decay, more severely, and they lose more teeth than persons who periodontal (gum) disease, salivary gland dysfunction, have good control of their diabetes. fungal infections, lichen planus and lichenoid reactions
Because of lowered resistance and a longer healing
(inflammatory skin disease), delayed healing and taste process, periodontal disease often appears to be more impairment.
frequent and more severe among persons with diabetes.
Your teeth are covered with plaque, a sticky film That’s why good oral care at home, regular dental checkups KaRon Y. Wade, BS, BSN, DDS Previously published in One Love HOUSTON
of bacteria. After you have a meal, snack or beverage and periodontal examinations are important. that contains sugars or starches, the bacteria releases
Diabetics can and should prevent oral health
acids derived from dietary sugars that attack tooth problems. Preventive
oral
health
care, including
Diabetes is one of the leading health problems enamel. Repeated attacks can cause the enamel to professional cleanings at the dental office, is important if among African-Americans, contributing significantly to break down and may eventually result in cavities. When you are to control the progression of periodontal disease morbidity and mortality and adversely affecting both the diabetes is not controlled properly, high glucose levels and other oral health problems. Regular dental checkups quality and length of life. Diabetes is a chronic metabolic in saliva may help bacteria thrive. Brushing twice a and periodontal screenings are important for evaluating disease also known to affect oral disease progression. day with a fluoride toothpaste and cleaning once a day overall dental health and for treating dental problems in Therefore diabetics should receive bi-annual routine between your teeth with floss or an interdental cleaner their initial stages. Your dentist may recommend more exams and cleanings to ensure their oral health. helps remove decay causing plaque. frequent evaluations and preventive procedures, such as Diabetic patients, however, are less likely to receive this Plaque that is not removed can eventually harden teeth cleaning, to maintain good oral health. preventative care reportedly due to the cost of dental (calcify) in to calculus, or tartar. When tartar collects Dentists have an opportunity and the responsibility care. Most diabetic patients are unaware of the oral above the gumline, it becomes more difficult to to promote good oral health behaviors such as regular health complications of their disease and the need for thoroughly brush and clean between teeth. This can dental examinations, proper oral hygiene and smoking proper preventative care. create conditions that lead to chronic inflammation cessation that may significantly affect the oral health of OCTOBER 2008
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Dr. D. L. Jones A change for the better. It seems that this topic just never goes away. Three years ago, I was moved in my heart to volunteer my time in Pas Christian, Mississippi where the devastation of Hurricane Katrina left thousands of people homeless, hungry, and many hopeless. What I thought would be a trip to help the unfortunate, changed my life in the area of “humane exchange.” The volunteer work in Mississippi changed the way I now think, behave, and govern my life. After two weeks of helping restore homes, lives, and communities, the one thing that permeated deep within my heart was the spiritual proverb “except for the grace of God there am I.” So what is change? After reading several definitions of change, the one that most intrigued me is “change is the process of becoming different.”
OCTOBER 2008
Most people are frustrated in life because they feel stuck in a rut, yet reject the process of becoming different. Others are in a rut and want to change but they don’t know how. Why do so many of us resist the principles of change that have been proven over and over when applied? I have discovered that change is a process that includes three basic ingredients. First, having the desire to change; secondly, having the ability to change; and thirdly, giving oneself the permission to change. If one can grab hold of the aforementioned ingredients of change, the probability of success in one’s life will be greatly enhanced. It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to understand the message of change that Senator Barack Obama has articulated during the 2008 presidential campaign. In addition, his sub-message is that change starts from the grassroots up. In essence, this message details the fact that certain things can’t happen through mere legislation. The variables of change are those intangibles such as commitment, perseverance, attitude, and motivation. Most people will not change their beliefs, habits, or behaviors unless they are motivated to do so. Most will not change, even if change is for the better, unless there is a compelling reason. I had to ask myself the question as to why I took a sabbatical from my job and spent two unpaid weeks in Pass Christian, Mississippi helping restore a city and a people that were unfamiliar to me. The answer was obvious. After seeing thousands of devastated faces and millions of dollars in community ruins, I was motivated to get out of my comfort zone and help people in need. Truly, I took a risk in venturing into unfamiliar territory, sleeping in a tent for two
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weeks, and working in obscure conditions where the elements were hazardous if not deadly. Today, looking back in retrospect, I can see that the cause catapulted me into a higher dimension of action that produced a life changing experience that has made me a better person. As long as the comforts of staying complacent remain greater than the rewards of changing, we will likely stay as we are. Or, conversely, if the rewards of change supersede the comforts of staying complacent, we will be more likely to change. Let’s set the record straight once and for all. At any given time in your life you can discipline yourself to make a change for the better. Any day of your life; you can make the decision to open your mind to new ideas that will better your life. Every day that God blesses you to be alive; choose to selfishly break old habits that keep you from maximizing your potential. Every prayer you pray; ask God to begin a metamorphous of change in your life. If you are serious about changing for the better, you can start today or remain in your comfort zone of complacency. You can put this article down and do nothing. You can pretend that you don’t need to change rather than change for the better. If the idea of having to change makes you uncomfortable, you can remain as you are. You can choose laziness over labor, ignorance over education, a lie over truth, and fear over faith. The choices are yours. As Shakespeare eloquently said “The fault is not in the stars, but in ourselves.” We continue to create a poor lifestyle by our poor choices. Nevertheless, we have the inward power to change for the better. Those in search of the good life don’t need to read another self-help book or attend another motivational conference. There’s enough information in you right now to make a CHANGE FOR THE BETTER.
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networking abilities. People in your network may be able to give you job leads, offer you advice and information about a particular company or industry, and introduce you to others so that you can expand your network. Even if you don’t think you already
By Carla Lane Contributing Writer
have a network, you probably do - consider colleagues, friends, and family members. You can broaden your network through joining professional organizations in your new
How does it happen? You begin to lose interest, all the passion is gone. You find field and contacting alumni from your college who are working in the field you want something that interests you more. Your company is downsizing. You work long hours to enter. everyday and you don’t have time for anything else in your life but work. You need to
Gaining Experience. Remember that, in a sense, you are starting your career
feel content about what you are doing everyday and enjoy it. These are just some of the again from square one. Obtaining a part-time job or volunteering in your new career reasons people find themselves looking back on their careers with dissatisfaction.
field not only can solidify your decision, but give you much needed experience in your
If the above statements mirror your feelings, it may be time to make a career new career. You might also want to consider accepting a temporary position in your change. Take it slowly and make sure what you really want to do is change careers. new field. Work weekends, nights, whatever it takes to gain the experience. You will Then use this plan, and you will be on a path toward career change success!
get a much better idea of what is really involved in your dream job if you see it up
Finally, remember that career change is a natural life progression; most studies close, in addition to learning relevant skills. Few make a successful career change in show that the average job-seeker will change careers (not jobs) several times over the a single bound. It’s better to dabble in your desired field first. course of his or her lifetime.
Find a Mentor. Changing careers is a major life decision that can get
Assessment of Likes and Dislikes. A lot of people change careers because overwhelming at times. Find a mentor who can help you through the rough patches. they dislike their job, their boss, their company. So, identifying the dislikes is often Your mentor may also be able to help you by taking advantage of his or her network. the easier part of this step; however, you will not know what direction to change your A mentor doesn’t have to be a highly placed individual, though the more powerful the career unless you examine your likes. What do you really like doing when you’re at mentor, the more success you may have in using that power to your advantage. work, when you’re at home - in your spare time? What excites you and energizes you?
Changing In or Out.
Some people change careers, but never change
What’s your passion? If you’re really unsure, consider taking a career assessment. The employers. Unfortunately, only the very progressive employers recognize that once key is spending some time rediscovering yourself -- and using your self-assessment happy employees can be happy and productive again - in a different capacity. It’s to direct your new career search.
more than likely that you will need to switch employers to change fields, but don’t
Researching New Careers. Once you’ve discovered (or rediscovered) your overlook your current employer. Remember not to start asking about a job passion, spend some time researching the types of careers that center around your switch until you are completely ready to do so. passions. Don’t worry if you’re feeling a bit unsure or insecure -- it’s a natural part
Be Flexible. You’ll need to be flexible about nearly everything - from your
of the career change process. How much research you do also partly depends on employment status to relocation and salary. Set positive goals for yourself, but expect how much of a change you’re making; for example, changing from a teacher to a setbacks and change - and don’t let these things get you down. Understand when you corporate trainer versus switching from a nurse to a Web designer. You can find some change careers you may have to start at the bottom and work your way up. Besides great career information and a skills-matching service at O*NET Online from the totally new careers, you might also consider a lateral move that could serve as a U.S. Department of Labor and basic job information from the U.S. Bureau of Labor springboard for a bigger career change. You might also consider starting your own Statistics’ Occupational Outlook Handbook. Make sure to research your new career business or consulting as other avenues. thoroughly to make sure you will enjoy doing it. Make sure you are not jumping from
Ignore the Haters. Recognize that there will be naysayers and learn how to
one job to be doing the same thing in a new one. Talk to someone that might already ignore them. These naysayers could be in your own head or in your own family. I think be in that field to find out what a day to day is like.
of them as hecklers at a track meet. Stay in your lane, stay focused on your goal, hold
Transferable Skills. Leverage some of your current skills and experiences your head up and RUN!!! to your new career. There are many skills (such as communications, leadership,
Making a career change is typically a long and difficult journey. No one laces up
planning, and others) that are transferable and applicable to what you want to do in a pair of running shoes and goes out and runs twenty-six miles. They sign up for a your new career. You may be surprised to see that you already have a solid amount of marathon where there will be plenty of other runners, support stations and people to experience for your new career.
cheer them along the way. Take a route where you are not going it alone and you will
Training and Education. You may find it necessary to update your skills and greatly increase your chances of success. broaden your knowledge. Take it slowly. If the skill you need to learn is one you could
Walking away from what you have already been doing to something you never
use in your current job, see if your current employer would be willing to pick up did before, can be very scary. If you have discovered that your present career has the tab. And start slowly. Take a course or two to ensure you really like the subject made you unhappy, it’s time to make a change! Get started! All journeys start with matter. If you are going for a new degree or certification, make sure you check the just one step. Maybe for now you want to start by making a list of what you want from accreditation of the school, and get some information about placement successes.
this change. Study and get an understanding about the new career that you want to
Networking. One of the real keys to successfully changing careers will be your venture into and it can be an exciting experience instead of a fearful one! OCTOBER 2008
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Changing for the Better Tips on How to Work More Efficiently and Effectively By Christina Robinson Grochett The common workplace is no longer considered “common.” With the help of technology, many people are telecommuting, working under little supervision and
Check your e-mail on a schedule: Given that you have a ton of work to do already, it is almost impossible to read
with flexible hours. In the typical office, meetings are conducted via e-mail or phone, every e-mail and respond promptly. People understand this and do not expect an and hand-delivered memos are almost non-existent. With these new changes come immediate response. So take time during the day (after a meeting, during lunch) to new work habits. These habits are designed to complement the latest changes. The check your email. As long as people know when to expect an answer and they know Internet has reinforced the adage “Time is money and money is time.” Being efficient how to reach you in an emergency, you can answer most types of e-mail just a few and effective is a key skill employers are expected to exemplify and necessary to times a day. increase output. According to Randstad USA’s annual World of Work survey, most employees and their bosses think productivity either increased or remained the same in 2006, primarily
Keep Web site addresses organized: Use bookmarking services like del.icio.us to keep a list of Web sites. Instead of
due to greater employee output and efficiency. Less than one-half (43 percent) of having sticky notes as decoration, you can save them all in one place, and you can employers say productivity has increased since the previous year compared with 33 search and share your list easily. percent of employees who say productivity has risen. Only 14 percent of employees say productivity was down in 2006 versus 12 percent of employers who also reported declines.
Know when you work best: Each person has a best time when you are productive. Monitor your productivity
There are many factors that can influence workplace habits as well as efficiency over a period of time to determine when you are most efficient. Then manage your and effectiveness. Some include quality of the workplace, office culture, organizational schedule to keep your best time free for your most important work. structure, flexibility and technology. However, employees should constantly improve
Although you can draw from many resources to better your work habits, ultimately
their habits in order to increase productivity and time. Below are several tips one can good communication is essential to working effectively and efficiently. Technology has take to improve efficiency and effectiveness:
changed the professional world and exercising better work habits will help increase productivity, thus saving time and money.
Don’t leave e-mail sitting in your inbox: Being able to quickly process and synthesize information and take immediate action is one of the most important skills of the workplace. Arrange e-mail in file folders. Need help prioritizing your e-mail? Here are some hints: If the message needs more thought, move it to your to-do list; if it is for reference, print it out; if it’s a meeting, move it to your calendar.
Do the most important thing first:
Christina Robinson Grochett is
It is very easy to get sidetracked in today’s multi-task world, so the first thing
the campus director for University
you need to do before checking any email is to complete the most important thing on
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your to-do list. This is a great idea because even if you cannot get the whole thing
An accomplished leader and
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champion of higher learning, she
Organize your to-do list every day:
businesswomen by the American
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If you do not know what needs to be done, how can you manage your time to do
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it? Create a list by hand and stick it on your computer or type it out and print.
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The Challenge is On! favorite reality star as this event will be free and open a Channelview native and graduate of Northshore High to the public.
School. Another highlight is Houstonian Uchenna Agu,
The challenge will consist of four full days of ac- who along with his wife Joyce, won Amazing Race All tivities (October 23-26), including a VIP reception, fash- Stars, will serve as the host of the event. ion show and trip to Galveston with the reality TV stars.
Proceeds from the 2008 Houston “Survivor” Chal-
There will also be “Pygmy Island” challenges for children lenge will benefit the Buffalo Bayou Partnership (www. and youth to participate.
buffalobayou.org) and the U’jana Conley Foundation for
Some of the reality show alumni who are participat- SIDS (www.ujanaconleyfoundation.org). We look forward
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ing include Vecepia Robinson, Winner, Survivor Marque- to your participation as we turn the banks of Buffalo sas; James Clement, twice voted Fan Favorite, Survivor Bayou into a jungle you are sure to survive!
By Elvia Valdez
China/Fans vs. Faves; Twila Tanner, Runner-Up, Survivor
For more information or to set up an interview,
Council Member, Jolanda “Jo” Jones, a former contes- Vanuatu; Katie Gallagher, Runner-Up, Survivor Palau; contact Council Member Jolanda “Jo” Jones’ office tant from the popular CBS reality series, Survivor and Erik Reichenbach, Survivor Fans vs. Faves; Ami Cusack, at 832-393-3006 or Elvia Valdez, Press Secretary at Mayor Bill White, the honorary chair, are bringing the Survivor Vanuatu/Fans vs. Faves; Bobby Jon Drinkard, 832-393-0782. jungle to Houston on the lush green banks of Buffalo Survivor Palau/Guatemala; Bruce Kanegai, Survivor Exile Bayou in downtown Houston. The Houston “Survivor” Island; Coby Archa, Survivor Palau; Rita Verreos, Sur- TO BE A CONTESTANT, if you think you have Challenge, will be held Saturday, October 25, 2008. vivor Fiji/Miss Venezuela; Lea “Sarge” Masters, Survi- what it takes, or for more information, log onto www.
This event will give 20 Houstonians the opportunity vor Vanuatu; Tyler Denk & James Branaman, Winners, ujanaconleyfoundation.org!!!! Deadline to apply is October 15th. to compete with and against real celebrity “Survivors”, Amazing Race10; Eric Sanchez, Winner, Amazing Race8; and other reality stars, in a full day of physical and men- Nikki Obrien; Amazing Race5/Miss Teen Texas; James tal challenges, culminating in one top winner. For those Rhine, Big Brother6/All Stars; Diane Yoo, Miss Asia USA not participating, there will be a chance to cheer on your 2008; and Natalie Bolton, Survivor Micronesia, who is
eauty of
hange
By Pastor Lorenzo Ewing Contributing Writer The Monarch butterfly presents us with an opportunity to learn much about
Merriam-Webster defines change as “to make different, alter, transform, or to
change. Before it matures, the butterfly must go through a series of complex changes. give a different course, or direction.” Whether it is a change in career, relationAt the end of the metamorphosis, the Monarch emerges from its cocoon as one of the ships, or health, we all must adapt and allow the process to produce the good that is most beautiful butterflies in all of God’s creation.
purposed for our lives. Change is the catalyst that forces us to be more flexible and
Like the Monarch butterfly, we are often forced into undesired and almost intol- resilient - able to bounce back from the most difficult of situations. It is a universal erable situations. Through it all, we must endure so that we can be pushed into our commonality by which we learn and grow. We must allow ourselves to break free from purpose. Though the butterfly does not seek to enter metamorphosis, the uninten- traditional thinking and the habits that hinder us from successfully becoming people tional circumstances force it from potential into purpose. In both cases, resistance to of purpose. change is detrimental to development. We must be able to see past the momentary
In the words of Bruce Barton “when you are through changing you are
discomfort of change and look forward to destiny. Our success hinges on whether we through.” choose to complain and do nothing or to embrace our own personal metamorphosis. OCTOBER 2008
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Change your
Negative Attitude and Better your Sales! When it comes to your bottom line, your attitude may just be key to whether you sink or swim in regards to sales. A negative attitude in sales will hold you back every time! No one likes to do business with people who are negative. But sometimes we don’t even know we have a negative attitude. As a salesperson, you can’t afford to give off these negative signs to your buyers and clients- you must find a way to be a positive influence upon those around you. Doing so will guarantee you more sales and more referrals. First you have to recognize what it is you are truly angry about. Then you have to recognize that you have the power to change. The power of the mind to achieve is unbelievable. It has ability far beyond what the average person uses. If you truly want a better life, here are some tips to help you get there. Assess what it is you need to change. There are several techniques to assess what it is that is holding you back from a positive attitude. • Try simply getting a pad of paper out and writing down what it might be. Keep writing for at least 15 minutes. It doesn’t have to even make sense - just let the ideas flow. Hint: The answer usually is not the first thing you write down. • Ask a true friend to be honest with you - what do they see holding you back. Then assess if that is a possibility. They may be right on. Sometimes it is easier to see problems from a distance. • Call a career coach. • Ask your supervisor. Set concrete goals. Now that you know what you want to change and what is holding you back - what will help you change? Make a plan. Sit down and write for as long as possible for all the solutions you can think of. Be strategic when making your plan and ask a confident to review your plan. Give a concrete time frame. Your written plan should have specific amounts and time frames. This is paramount in achieving any goal. Not using concrete specifics will have failed results. Just like a prospect saying, “Well, call me again “ You think, “Yea, right!” and if you’re a good salesperson you’ll ask, “Great, What’s better Tuesday or Thursday?” If you don’t get that specific you’ll never hook the deal. Play positive mind CDs. ‘Mind CDs’ are those messages we hear in our brain, which tell us the things we heard growing-up. These Mind CDs are our self-image mind talk. For Example, you start to do something new and you hear yourself say, “You can’t do that!” or “What are you thinking, that’s crazy!” or even the opposite extreme “I am better than everyone else.” All of the extremes will hinder you. You can re-burn your CD. Take your Mind CD and mentally copy over it specific statements to achieve your goal. Review your goals at least once a week (or daily if possible). This aspect is often overlooked; however, it is so very important. If you don’t review your progress you will never know how far you’ve come and how much you’ve changed. Review what your goals are. Ask yourself, “How am I progressing?” and “Where can I do better?” or “What have I learned?” Track concrete specifics such as your sales. Then review your sales performance. Reassess the direction you are going and if the goals are still what you truly want. If things have not changed - change your plan! Change can be difficult - and if you think that way it will be! Change can be a difficult thing especially if you focus on how hard it is. Instead, think of how one small change can make the world of difference. Change can be exciting, exhilarating and rejuvenating! OCTOBER 2008
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Contractor Information: Companies wanting to contract with the Corps or want information on how to work with a prime contractor: information is on the www.swf.usace.army.mil web site under Hurricane Information or under the Small Business Office link. Prime contractors for missions indicated: Debris – Ceres Environmental – 800-218-4424 Generators/Ice & Water – IAP – 803-798-1611 Blue Roof – Crown Roofing – 504-464-4644 ext 219 Acme/ITS Joint Venture – 863-599-9133 or www.acmeitsjv.com
TO REPORT FRAUD: If you are a small business wanting to assist in cleanup in the aftermath of a disaster, you need to do the following: Register in the Central Contractor Registry (CCR) at www.ccr.gov. The FEMA Disaster Response data base collects its information in the CCR. Once you have accessed the website, go to “Help” link on the top of the page and read the CCR Handbook. It will tell you all the information you will need to register. To begin your registration go to the CCR Home page and select “Start a New Registration” on the left hand side of the page. After you complete the required elements, go to the Disaster Response page (see “Optional Information” on the left had side of the page). FEMA established its Debris Removal Contractor Registry (DRCR), specifically for state and local governments to use to identify and pre-qualify available debris removal contractors. All vendors interested in doing business with FEMA should send an e-mail to FEMA-Industry@ dhs.gov. Small Business should also complete SBA’s Supplemental Page at the end of the registration.
USACE Contractor Fraud – 210-308-4538 Texas Attorney General – 1-800-621-5000 FEMA Fraud – 1-800-323-8603 Disaster Fraud Hotline – 1-866-720-5721 DHS Fraud Hotline – 202-254-4292
FEMA Register in FEMA’s Debris Removal Contractor Registry (DRCR): https://asd.fema.gov/inter/nerr/home.htm FEMA has established a web-based Debris Removal Contractor Registry (DRCR), specifically for state and local governments to use to identify and pre-qualify available debris removal contractors. For questions or technical difficulties, please email femarims@dhs.gov. All vendors interested in doing business with FEMA should send an e-mail to FEMAIndustry@dhs.gov
GSA CCR Customer Service Contact Information Toll-Free Phone Number 1-888-227-2423 CCR Email: ccr@bpn.gov Hours of Operation are 9 - 5 (EST) Monday - Friday. Voice mail messages will be taken Disaster Recovery Purchasing if all lines are busy; all calls will be returned. http://www.gsa.gov/Portal/gsa/ep/channelView.do?pageTypeId=8199&channelId=-18810 Army Corps of Engineers
OTHER RESOURCES
The Army Corps of Engineers also has its Disaster Resource Contractor Registry at http://www.lrl.usace.army.mil/DisasterEquip/ (firms must also be register in CCR). The Corps of Engineers has developed this contractor registry for assistance with their disaster response mission. The Corps of Engineers uses its engineering and contracting capabilities to support FEMA and other Federal, State and local government agencies in a wide variety of missions during natural and man-made disasters. Information in this registry will be used by Corps of Engineers offices that are looking for specific goods or services during emergencies. Submission of information is voluntary. Information will be considered For Official Use Only within the Federal government. Submission of information to this registry DOES NOT expressly or implicitly commit the Federal government to procurement of products or services For any questions regarding the Army Corps Contractor Registry, please email disasterresponsereg@lrl02.usace.army.mil. You will need to contact the districts who are engaged with the Hurricane relief effort. Please see link http://www.hq.usace.army.mil/hqsb/poc/ACE_SADBUs.xls For relief efforts for Hurricane Gustav you may contact the small business personnel under U.S. Army Engineer Divisions, Great Lakes & Ohio River & Mississippi Valley. For Hurricane Ike, you make contact U.S. Army Engineer Divisions, Southwestern Division, namely the Ft. Worth District and Galveston District. Currently, Ft. Worth has the lead in the relief effort in Galveston. Ft. Worth has a contractor registry http:// www.swf.usace.army.mil/pubdata/SBO/. In addition to the registry, this link offers general and subcontracting opportunities information. Please keep in mind that the Stafford Act applies to these efforts http://www. fema.gov/about/stafact.shtm FAR Part 18 also provides detailed acquisition regulations regarding the Stafford Act. Disaster Resource Contractor Registry at http://www.lrl.usace.army.mil/ DisasterEquip/.
FEDBIZOPPS Once you have registered with CCR, you can go to http://www.fedbizopps. gov. This is the single government point-of-entry for Federal government contract opportunities over $30,000. Managed by the General Services Administration, FedBizOpps allows businesses to sign up for e-mail notification of open contracts related to specified fields. At the website, on the right hand side, under Related Links, click on “Vendor Notification Services”, which will allow you to receive email alerts by contract number, classification or all contract notices. You can reach the FedBizOpps Help Desk by clicking on the “Help Desk” link on the bottom of the FEDBIZOPPS web page, calling 877-472-3779 or sending an email to fbo.support@gsa.gov. The Help Desk is open between 8am and 6pm EST (M-F).
OCTOBER 2008
Procurement Technical Assistance Centers (PTACs) form a nationwide network of procurement professionals dedicated to providing you: www.aptac-us.org 1. An understanding of the requirements of government contracting, and the know-how to obtain and successfully perform federal, state and local government contracts. 2. At little or no cost, PTACs provide a wide range of assistance covering every phase of government contracting – from initial registrations through contract completion. Small Business Development Centers: Offer One-stop assistance to individuals and small businesses by providing a wide variety of information and guidance in local, easily accessible branch locations. http://www.sba.gov/sbdc/sbdcnear.html For any other contracting opportunities, please contact the state, county, or other local municipalities in the area that you would like to do business in, to find out what is available and what their requirements may be. www.
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APS Construction “Helping People Pick Up the Pieces After Ike”
By: Jennifer Cobb, Contributing Writer It was this time a month ago. We were all in preparation to either evacuate or “hunker down”, anxiously anticipating Hurricane Ike’s arrival. Over the course of a few hours, he came; he destroyed and moved to the north. The past few weeks, the city of Houston and surrounding areas have been in clean-up mode and will continue to be in that mode until routines return to normal. APS Construction has become part of that process. For APS Construction, roofing, fencing, replacement windows, general construction for commercial and residential properties and handling insurance claims are their areas of expertise and helping to rebuild is one of their top priorities. “We’re here because people need help from someone who is dependable and knows what they are doing,” said Steven Bush,
Larry Thurman
Director of Operations. With the fallen trees on roofs, fences in pieces and wind damage to windows and store-fronts, a lot of people are filing claims
with their insurance companies to get repairs made. For whatever the reason may be, however, it seems that insurance companies either send out adjusters who are inexperienced or experienced but do not make thorough assessments of the homeowners’ or business owners’ damages. From those assessments, most claims are severely underpaid, thus the necessary repairs for home and business owners are slow to begin and the out-of-pocket costs are outrageous. This is where APS comes in. “Most people get taken advantage of by their insurance company. We take it upon ourselves at APS to prevent that from happening,” said Sales Manager, Larry Thurman. Bush explains that it isn’t about gouging the insurance company at all. The fact of the matter is that it is only about getting the home or business owner what they are rightfully due; no homeowner should have to pay out-of-pocket except for their deductible. “See it takes someone like us at APS Construction to come in who understands building construction, building codes and the games some insurance companies play to convey to these adjusters they send out what wind damage is, what rain damage is. We just want to provide a quality and painless construction process.” After something like Hurricane Ike, it only seems right that people and businesses in the community come together to offer support and services to make sure no one is left behind or taken advantage of. APS Construction prides itself on their ability to do just that.
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OCTOBER 2008
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OCTOBER 2008
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Body Maintenance The I m por t a n c e o f M a s sa g e T h e ra p y True you can trade a car in every three to four years. True you can get another car when one breaks down. BUT! We are only awarded One Temple to administer. So why not give it the best possible care you can give it. Don’t wait until the emergency light comes on and don’t wait until your body almost completely shuts down. GETTING A MASSAGE ON A REGULAR BASIS ASSISTS IN KEEPING YOUR BODY IN A GOOD HEALTHY STATE.
Vondalyn Hall How well do you know your body? Or should I ask, how well do you take care of your body? Do you take care of your car better than you take care of yourself?
Take care of your body better than you take care of your car and because your body is important to me, I am running an:
INTRODUCTORY $55 FULL BODY RELAXATION MASSAGE PROMOTION Call today to schedule your session.
Restore, Revive and Renew. Come in and give your body a relaxing recharge or shall I say, “Tune Up” so you can go the extra mile without breaking down. You will appreciate the A lot of times we forget how important body maintenance is. We don’t realize it’s more difference from the inside out. important than car maintenance. *Promotion is effective October 1, 2008 until December 30, 2008*
For example: You want your car to run right, so what do you do? **Do understand that massage therapist or spa practitioners do not diagnose disease, prescribe • You make sure the oil is changed every 3k miles. medications or manipulate ones. You should always see a qualified specialist for any of these • You make sure the tires are rotated, balanced and aligned. conditions.** • You get your brakes checked every so often. • When the engine light comes on, you panic and drive it as fast as you can to the closest mechanic to get it checked out. Now, these are just a few of the things you do. But let’s see, what about when it comes to taking care of YOU? Simple ole’ YOU! Unfortunately, we seem to ignore making our body a priority. Most people don’t realize Massage Therapy has so many benefits. • Like Stress; massage is good for that. • Releasing back pain; massage is good for that. • Helping eliminate symptoms of depression, yes! Massage is good for that as well. • Increasing blood flow; massage is good for that. • Detoxifying is the process of eliminating waste. Definitely, massage is good for that. Recent scientific research has also proven that massage therapy increases immune function, decreases stress levels and reduces recovery time in many medical conditions including: •Allergies • Depression and Anxiety • Arthritis • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome • Asthma and Bronchitis • Circulatory Problems • Insomnia • Sports Injuries • Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction (TMJ) • Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome • Muscular-Skeletal Disorders These are just a few of Massage Therapy’s many benefits. There are so many positive aspects to receiving massage therapy on an ongoing basis, and with the busy lives we lead, we can all benefit from a little de-stressing. More people are turning to therapeutic massage treatment to release daily stress, promote relaxation and relieve tension associated with their busy lives, or simply to help maintain good health and achieve a balanced lifestyle. Not to mention it just FEELS GREAT! OCTOBER 2008
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The Houston Citizens Chamber of Commerce (HCCC) formally presented its 2008 finalists of the Pinnacle, Advocate and Upstart Awards at its VIP Nominee Reception on Friday, Oct. 3, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., at the Plaza Club, 49th Floor, One Shell Plaza, 910 Louisiana Street, Houston, TX 77002. The VIP Nominee Reception was sponsored by Comerica Bank and hosted by i10mediagroup and Shell Oil Company. Pinnacle Awards spotlight and honor African-American businesses that have achieved success by combining vision, determination, commitment, perseverance and dedication to building strong communities. In the face of the Hurricane Ike devastation, these finalists have demonstrated exceptional courage and tenacity to succeed despite the damage and business downtime caused by the storm. Proceeds from the Pinnacle Awards gala benefit HCCC small business advocacy and education programs. Five winners in industry categories will be awarded during the 14th Annual African American Business Achievement Pinnacle Awards black-tie gala on Friday, Oct. 17, 2008, at the George R. Brown Convention Center, 1001 Avenida de las Americas, Houston, TX 77010. The reception and silent auction, hosted by Jones Magazine, will begin at 6 p.m. The awards dinner program will begin at 7:30 p.m. and conclude at 9:30 p.m. This year’s ceremony, where the awards will be presented Oscar style, is themed “Honoring Houston’s Entrepreneurial Elite.” Shell Oil Company is the title sponsor for the second consecutive year. The Pinnacle and Upstart Award finalists were selected by a committee of corporate, community, and small business leaders and judged on fulfillment of mission statement and company objectives, company growth and marketing plans, proven effectiveness in meeting business challenges, and community involvement.
• Lakesha Reed and Salimah Muhammad, Beaucoup Café • Tracy Smith, Taylor Smith Consulting The Upstart Award is sponsored by Capital One Bank, DiverseStaff a Lane Staffing Company and Parsons.
Advocate Award The Advocate Award was initiated to recognize organizations that do business with and/or provide business opportunities and education to African-American small businesses. “We created the Advocate Award to encourage organizations to continue in their efforts to equip, empower and educate African-American business enterprises,” said Jeffrey L. Boney, president and CEO, Houston Citizens Chamber of Commerce. The 2008 Advocate Award finalists are: • Comerica Bank • Houston Community College • Houston Minority Business Council KBR is the Title Sponsor of the Advocate Award with H-E-B as Co-Presenting Sponsor.
HCCC Spirit of the Community Award
Crystal Brown-Tatum, Crystal Clear Communications Sonceria Messiah Jiles, Defender Media Group Natalie J Evans, Evans Mundle Communications
HCCC will present its inaugural Spirit of the Community Award during this year’s Pinnacle Awards gala. The Spirit of the Community Award will be selected by HCCC and presented annually to a corporation or individual who demonstrates the year’s best example of community citizenship in Houston. The company or individual is a champion of the community and has undergirded many social services, small businesses, and non-profit organizations that fuel our economy. The winning company or individual has not only made contributions monetarily, but also has exhibited personal leadership through countless hours of volunteerism.
Construction/Real Estate
2008 Pinnacle Award Sponsors
The 2008 Pinnacle Award Finalists are:
Communications
Esther Francis, CBIC Construction & Development, LP Jason R. Freeman, Hallmark Capital Group Joseph Henderson Sr., Rock Custom Cabinets
E. Ann Guliex, All-N-One Services, LLC Jennifer Dean, Dean’s Professional Services - Smith & Dean, Inc. Clarence D. Carrington Sr., Oaks Batter-Up Texas
Pinnacle Sponsors to date include: Title Sponsor Shell Oil Company; VIP Reception Title Sponsor Comerica Bank; Advocate Award Title Sponsor KBR; Advocate Award Co-Presenting Sponsor H-E-B; Upstart Award Co-Presenting sponsors Capital One Bank, DiverseStaff a Lane Staffing Company and Parsons; Official Airlines of the 2008 Pinnacle Awards Southwest Airlines; Bronze Sponsors: Chevron, Merrill Lynch, Wells Fargo Bank and TXU Energy; and Table Sponsors: Aetna, AT&T Yellow Pages, ExxonMobil, George R. Brown Convention Center, Houston Minority Business Council, HP, Nationwide Insurance, Silver Eagle Distributors, Reliant Energy and Unity National Bank; and Media Partners KRIV-TV Fox 26, KTXH-TV My 20, Radio One (KMJQ Magic 102.1 FM, KBXX 97.9 The Box and KROI Praise 92.1 FM), The Wash Allen Show, Houston Business Journal, D-MARS.com, i10mediagroup, Jones Magazine, Rolling Out Magazine, DBA Business Media, Gospel Truth Magazine, Who’s Who in Black Houston, Womentality Magazine and The Houston Sun. For sponsorships, table purchase, ticket sales, Pinnacle Souvenir Book ad placement, or silent auction and Pinnacle gift bag donations, please visit www. hcccpinnacleawards.org or contact Margo Williams Handy, MWH Public Relations at 281.213.9554 or e-mail margo@mwhpublicrelations.com.
Mack H. Hannah Jr. Upstart Business Award
About Houston Citizens Chamber of Commerce:
Healthcare Dr. Razak Balogun, Dr. Derrill James, Bazile Spine Centre Ricky Mayes, Lora Mayes, RN, Beacon Home Health Agency, LLC Zeb F. Poindexter III, D.D.S., Poindexter Dental, Inc.
Hospitality Tarsha Gary, CRAVE Gourmet Bakery & Catered Café Keisha Ervin, Keisha’s Kreations LLC Sharmagne Taylor, CMP, On-Site Partners
Professional Services
Founded in 1935, the Houston Citizens Chamber of Commerce has a mission The Mack H. Hannah Jr. Upstart Business Award was created to recognize and provide to help secure business opportunities for African-American business owners, business resources and a monetary award to a burgeoning African-American business entrepreneurs and professionals and provide them with programs and forums to with a high potential for success. educate, equip and empower the growth and prosperity of their businesses. For more information, log onto www.hccoc.org or call 713.522.9745. The 2008 Upstart Award finalists are: • Rebecca Briscoe, A/List Models OCTOBER 2008
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Be Prepared for the Changing Times 2. Venture capitalists are a lot more selective in what and how much they give,
By Dr. Wendy www.askdr-wendy.com www.myspace.com/askdrwendy As an entrepreneur it is important that you remain competitive and focused. Competition is fierce, which means that you must stay visible, provide a good service and think ahead. Currently, the economy is not at its best and being aware of the country’s current state of financial affairs is imperative. Financial institutions that you’ve developed relationships with are folding right before your eyes. This is merely a sign of the “changing times”.
as many have lost money as well. 3. Although you have the solution to a client’s problem, many companies are taking a little longer making that final decision. Money is tight and some are re-doing their budgets and cutting a lot of services. As an entrepreneur, it is important that you sell the client on the fact that you can increase production and the bottom line, as this is what companies are looking for. They want “bottomline” related results not lip-service. 4. Stay informed. Ensure that you read the newspaper, listen to the news or tag your favorite news related website. Stay abreast of what is going on in the financial arena. Know how the stock market and major financial institutions are doing. Read, read and read, as you will be surprised that knowing the country’s financial affairs will assist with many of the business decisions that you make.
Below are Four “Reality-Check” tips for you to consider:
Starting and running a business is not an easy task. It’s even harder when the economy 1. Do not get discouraged if a bank does not approve your loan or extend you the takes a dive. Yes, it takes hard work and tenacity, but it also requires that you know line of credit that you were expecting to start a business. Banks are being very what companies are doing and you must stay abreast of how the economy is going to conservative with their lending practices considering the current economic state. impact your particular business. This is just another aspect of change that you must Ensure that you work with banks that cater to your needs. Don’t jump the gun, prepare for.impact your particular business. This is just another aspect of change that do some research before you sign your name on the dotted line.
OCTOBER 2008
you must prepare for.
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ruptcy case proceeding, which will stop the foreclosure of your home and allow you to restructure your debt and establish a repayment plan to save your home.
James Q. Pope, Esq. Attorney at Law
During the current mortgage crisis and hard economic times, most people want to know two things: 1.) How to save their home. 2.) How to start fresh.
Save My Home: The mortgage crisis is an economic breakdown that reaches far beyond the sub-prime lending market. It draws no color lines and affects each and every current homeowner and potential home buyer. Homeowner’s facing foreclosure feel the effects of the mortgage crisis first, but homeowners who are still able to make ends meet will eventually feel the financial burn. As foreclosures continue to rise in your neighborhood and throughout your communities, you will see an increase in property taxes, an increase in homeowner’s association fees, a decrease in amenities offered in your neighborhood and a decrease in funding to the schools in your community. Foreclosures have a direct connection with the value of your home and the value of the homes in your neighborhood. As the property values drop, the amount of property taxes collected will drop and the funds used to support your community will otherwise begin to disappear. Furthermore, as your neighbors begin to lose the foreclosure battle, the remaining residents in the neighborhood will have to cover the association’s losses and will see a significant increase in your homeowner’s association fees in an effort to maintain a certain level of normalcy and safety in your residential community. However, all it not lost. You don’t have to lose the foreclosure battle. You can fight back by utilizing some of the following tools when facing a foreclosure: 1. Remain in contact with your lender or mortgage company. Nothing is more important in this current mortgage crisis, than knowing the status of your mortgage loan. Have your payments increased? Is your interest rate scheduled to increase? Is your loan properly escrowed? Take control of your situation, by being knowledgeable about your loan. 2. Know your options. a. Special Forbearance: Often referred to as a “work-out plan”, this option is a repayment plan based upon your current financial situation and may even provide for a temporary reduction or suspension of your payments. b. Mortgage Modification: Your lender may allow you to restructure the debt and extend the term of your mortgage loan. c. Partial Claim: Your lender may be able to work with you to obtain an interest-free loan from HUD to bring your mortgage current, if certain qualifications are met. d. Project HOPE: By calling 1-888-995-4673, you may find that you qualify for an FHA federal refinance program. e. Bankruptcy: As a last resort, you can commence a chapter 13 bankOCTOBER 2008
YOUR FRESH START: What we all need at the moment is a bail out plan from the government to help save our homes and start fresh. But while you wait on a bail out plan for Middle America, what do you do? Well, if you have exhausted all other possible remedies, including those referenced here, you may want to consider other viable alternatives of last resort, two of which are listed below: 1. Deed in Lieu of Foreclosure: This is an alternative that will allow the homeowner to simply give the property back to the lender and be able to leave the property behind without having a foreclosure on your credit. You will have to request this alternative. Most mortgage companies are not going to voluntarily let you know this option exists. The only downside with this alternative is that the mortgage company must be in agreement in order to execute the deed in lieu of foreclosure. 2. Bankruptcy: Unlike what some of you may have heard…bankruptcy is NOT illegal and is still a viable and practical solution for some individuals. Although an option of last resort, bankruptcy refers to the federal law that permits certain entities and individuals to obtain permanent relief from many debts and obligations. The intent of the bankruptcy law is to enable debtors to get a “fresh start” in their financial affairs. Although a bankruptcy will remain on your credit for ten (10) years, after fully assessing your financial situation, and attempting to fight the foreclosure battle, you may find that the immediate relief and protection afforded by the bankruptcy case filing, is a viable and practical alternative for you. There may be more options available to help you fight and win the foreclosure battle during this mortgage crisis, but you must first take a hard look at your financial situation, consider some of the options and alternatives listed here and make the decision that best fits your needs. These are tough economic times, but each of us will get through it in our own way. Hopefully, the information presented here, will help you make a more informed decision, allow you to save your home and start fresh.
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