d-mars.com Business Journal 37

jan. 15 - Feb. 15 2010

37

Inspire, Inform & Educate

Edition

Women in it to Win it! 2010

INSIDE

Women in it to win it, more than a notion, it’s downright proverbial

By Author Noel Pinnock “She is the perfect housewife, the chaste helpmate of her husband, upright, God-fearing, economical, wise” PAGE 14

How to Attract and Retain Women Leaders

By Christina R. Grochett Top six things women consider when deciding to work for or stay with a company.

PAGE 17

“The harder the conflict, the more glorious the triumph” – Thomas Paine Left to Right

MR. D-MARS, Dr. Alison Scott-Cuillier, Dr. Kahlilah McAfee, Dr. Rhesa Bautista Mom’s Guide to Saving Time

UFUOMA WHITEM

By Aurelia Williams

LOVE MY LACE WIGS.TM

There are things you can do to make the most of your day so that you can accomplish a lot yet still manage to have some free time to do things that you enjoy.

PAGE 24

Crystal Cooper Cooper Publishing

Carla Lane LaneStaffing

Justina Chen Financial Consultant, CPA

Hazel Lowe All Faces Educational Foundation

T.Q. Doyle Consultant

Rachel R. Wilson Contributing Writer

Black Women are Straightening it Out!

By Dr. D. L. Jones As black women are challenged with hurdles seen and unseen, they must never give up on their dreams.

PAGE 27

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Publisher’s Message

Keith J. Davis, Sr. SR. PUBLISHER Keith J. Davis, Sr. JR. PUBLISHER Keith J. Davis, Jr.

PHOTOGRAPHY Leon Galbreath

I can’t believe it’s been three years. That’s right, it was three years ago when we released our first Women in it to Win it edition of the DMars Business Journal. That issue was such a hit with readers that more and more women wanted to be a part of it. The issue itself was such a hit that we’ve decided to make it an annual edition. Of course, there’s no shortage of talented women doing phenomenal things in Houston. But we can only highlight so many.

So, once again, this issue spotlights those women who aren’t playing games when it comes to handling their business. They are kicking butt and taking names, balancing personal and professional lives, all while serving as an asset to their community. They are women who know what it takes to win and work nonstop to make that happen. There are doctors, realtors, entrepreneurs, and more. And I’m sure there’s something to be learned from all of them.

There’s also a wealth of information, dedicated to helping women – personally, emotionally, spiritually, and professionally. As always, I want you to find something you can use, but it is also my hope that you’ll be inspired to come up with a sound plan of your own to realize all of your dreams and get in the game with an “In it to win it” attitude.

And as you’re perusing the paper, soaking in all of the valuable information, please make sure you check out the ads, then go support our advertisers. It’s because of them that we’re able to keep educating, informing and enlightening you at no cost. Your support is the best way of saying thanks.

As for me, I can’t say thank you enough. For your support of the DMars Business Journal may your 2010 be prosperous!

MARKETING CONSULTANTS Johnny Ray Davis, Jr.

CONTENTS

VICE PRESIDENT Kevin Davis EDITING CONSULTANT ReShonda Tate-Billingsley EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT Heather Haukaas ACCOUNTING MANAGER Eugenie Doualla

MULTIMEDIA DIRECTOR Andrea Hennekes LAYOUT & GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Ghuzzala Malik (Faith) Myron Davis DISTRIBUTION Booker T. Davis, Jr. CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Michelle Rodriguez Diedria B. Joseph Nikki Brooks Jerome Love Noel Pinnock Carla Lane Jacqueline Christina R. Grochett Richard T. Gorham T.Q. Doyle Rod Alan Richardson Heather Haukaas Rachel R. Wilson Justina Chen Gail Mathis Erica King Craig Anthony Nicholas Dr. D. L. Jones April Khaliq Leslie Logan Aurelia Williams

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Leaving a Lasting Impression...........................................................................4 Love your Lace Wigs....................…………………………...........................….5 Business Entrepreneur……………………………………………...................….11 Compassionate Competitiveness………………………………........................12 Win with Friends – Know Your Levels………………….........................……....12 How to develop the Attitude of a Successful Business Woman….................13 Women in it to win it, more than a notion, it’s downright proverbial!..............14 Take Care of Yourself…………………………………………………..……….....16 How to Attract and Retain Women Leaders………………………………........17 Dreams do Come True with Perseverance & Self-Belief……………………….18 F.O.R.C.E your Image………………………………………………...………....…23 Patterns and Habits of Great Leaders…………………………………..…….....23 When Adversity Strikes choose to Win………………………………….....……24 Mom’s Guide to Saving Time…………………………………………………......24 The Rule of 72…………………………………………………...……………....….25 Perseverance: Winning It White In It!...............................................................26 Black Women are Straightening it Out!............................................................27 Educator On a Mission!...................................................................................28 Design Your Life……………………………………………………………….....…29 Mrs. Hazel Lowe-“A Big Heart”……………………………………………….......30 The ABCs of Retirement Planning………....…………………………………......30 Healthy Living Part 1………..………………………………………………….......36 The Opera Plan For Success...........................................................................37

MR. D-MARS Tip of the Month “Winning starts with attitude.”

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D-MARS.com Business Journal 7322 Southwest Fwy, Suite 806 Houston, Texas 77074 713-272-9511 . Phone 713-272-6364 . Fax 1-800-453-8752 . Toll Free www.d-mars.com 3.

Leaving a Lasting Impression

Dental Group strives to change the way you smile

Left to Right: Dr. Kahlilah McAfee, Dr. Alison Scott-Cuillier & Dr. Rhesa Bautista

When Dr. Allison Scott and Dr. Leslie Bowie Wells decided to open their dental office, Lasting Impressions Dental Group, in 2002, it was a dream come true. But then, tragedy struck in 2008, when Dr. Bowie Wells suddenly died. To honor her memory, Dr. Scott decided to forge ahead.

“Our goal had always been to keep our patient needs first, and to work smart not hard! After the passing of Dr. Bowie Wells in 2008, I was determined to keep our dream and goals alive,” she said.

Dr. Scott found two other dentists with similar goals and aspirations, Dr. Bautista Cedilla, and Dr. Khalilah MCAfee . Together, the trio would make a living helping people leave lasting impressions.

“I could have easily given up on my dream but instead I decided to concentrate more on my patients and their needs. I have been blessed with two associate dentists and a wonderful staff. We all have the same vision and it makes it very easy to work together,” Dr. Scott said.

Dr. Bautista says it was an ideal jan. 15 - Feb. 15 2010

merger. She, herself, has been drawn to the industry since she was a little girl.

“I was drawn to dentistry by the inherent qualities of the profession,” Dr. Bautista said. “It’s a profession that is caring and compassionate, very detail oriented and thrives from good social relationships between doctors and patients.”

Lasting Impressions strives to show people that they no longer have to live with the smile that they were born with.

The trio wanted people to know that a great smile is not just for celebrities and Hollywood actors, anyone these days can get the smile that they have always dreamed of with the help of experience and trained dentist.

“From the minute you walk into our office you feel at home. You are greeted with a smile and respect. Once you are escorted to your room you have the choice of a blanket, watch a movie, and listen to your own private music and neck pillow. We want you to feel as comfortable as possible. We service all of your dental needs from extractions, root canals, implants, white fillings, www.

porcelain crowns and veneers, whitening, dentures, braces and even Botox!”

Dr. Scott said.

There are many different procedures in the field of cosmetic dentistry to help a variety of smile problems from teeth whitening, porcelain crowns and bridges, white fillings, implants, and of course, porcelain veneers.

“With cosmetic dentistry, your new smile can make you more self confident, have a greater self esteem, and drastically improve your personal life and career.

We’ve seen it many times over on the dental makeover shows, that the teeth make the most dramatic improvement to ones appearance and far outweigh any other cosmetic surgery procedures.”

But for Dr. Bautista, her career in dentistry almost didn’t happen.

“With my mind set on this profession, I was devastated when I found out that I was placed on the waiting list for matriculation into the first year of dental school,” she said. “Realizing how highly competitive it was to get into dental school, I decided to improve my chances of acceptance by taking more science courses, getting involved in more extracurricular activities and interning at a dental office. However, to my dismay, another year passed, and I was placed on the waiting list for a second time! Greatly discouraged, I began to question if dentistry was really for me. But it did not take me long to conclude that this was what I wanted to do and that I was going to do whatever it takes to achieve my goal. I gained experience in the field as a dental assistant, began networking in the dental community and continued post-graduate studies while I applied for dental school yet again.”

That perseverance paid off and the third time was a charm!

“Now as I enjoy serving and caring for my patients each day, I am thankful to have persevered. I realize that anything is possible, but you have to make it happen. In all aspects of my life, I set my goals, work hard with determination and never give up,” she said.

Dr. McAfee had a similar story.

“Living can seem almost impossible when a personal tragedy is staring you in the face. That is how I felt when my mother passed away in a traumatic car accident. At the tender age of ten, life as I had always known it was no more.

Many around me expected my life to spiral out of control, but it did not. I decided that I was not going to be a victim of my circumstance and refused to be a failure. I focused on what I knew I was good at, my academics. Using my studies as a way to escape my reality, I indulged myself in my academics and extracurricular activities and went on to graduate from Eisenhower High School with honors, obtained a Bachelor of Science degree from Texas A&M University, and my Doctorate of Dental Science from the University of Texas Dental Branch. Today I am a professional woman, wife, and mother who is living a full life. I want all young women reading my story to know that whatever your situation may be, you can overcome it. The word of God says, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

And thank God He strengthened me!”

Adds Dr. Scott. “We are all women that are in it to win it and my advice to any women who are reading this article is: Whatever obstacles that come your way, and they will come, continue to see the big picture and stay focused on your dream. Leslie you are missed terribly, but your dream still remains.”

For more information, visit, www. lastingimpressionsdental.com.

4.

Love your Lace Wigs

Ufuoma Whitem & Mr. D-MARS

Several years ago, graphic designer Ufuoma Whiteru was looking for something to do with her hair. She looked around at celebrities to see what styles she liked. She found it on Houston Superstar Beyonce’.

“I just knew that wasn’t Beyonce’s hair and when I found that it was a lace wig, I tried to find one for myself,” she said.

Whiteru searched high and low – for over a year – for a wig like Beyonce’s.

She found cheap knock-offs and high dollar imitations, but nothing that suited her likes and her budget.

“I think I searched for a year before I found one. As a customer, I had a really hard time finding the lace wigs and a really hard time finding authentic, good quality human hair at a reasonable price. Everything was really, really expensive,” she said.

So Whiteru decided to put her graphic design skills to work.

“I thought since I know how to do web design and I know how to market, and I know how to present things well, I could start my own company.”

That was two years ago and soon that on-line presence was expanding. jan. 15 - Feb. 15 2010

“I kind of had a need to have a public space so I opened the store, Love my Lace Wigs (at 11799 Beechnut, Ste. E.),” she said.

But Whiteru wasn’t looking to help those that just wanted to glam up. She wanted to make sure she could provide her service to all types of people.

“My goal is to provide the hair products and the wigs and all types of hair products that I offer at an affordable price and I pretty much want to offer it to all women – cancer survivors who have hair loss for medical reasons or women who just need an emergency hair makeover because they have an event, or a wedding or some gathering they need to look really nice for. Pretty much, I need any woman or young lady to leave with a smile on their face. I just want them to look good, feel better about the way they look,” Whiteru said.

If you’ve never heard of a lace wig, you’re not alone. In the past lace wigs were used mainly by actors and people who suffered from hair loss due to medical problems. But recently, celebrities like Beyonce, Oprah, Jennifer Hudson and Tyra Banks are making lace wigs more widely popular.

“A lace wig is unlike any other wig. They are so realistic that you can be sitting right next to someone and not know they are wearing a wig. Love My Lace Wigs uses 100% Human hair.

A lace wig is built on a very sheer lace cap, and the key feature is that at the hairline, and when parted, a lace wig looks incredibly natural, as if the hair is growing right out of the scalp. The lace is adhered to your skin and disappears, you can even wear a lace wig in a a high ponytail or up do.”& more. www.

Love My Lace Wigs™ has a diverse collection of quality undetectable, invisible hairline Lace Wigs.

They carry both In Stock & Custom Full Lace Wigs, Lace Front Wigs, Lace Frontals, Lace Wig Adhesives and other Lace Wig accessories. The wigs are seamless, discrete, versatile, professionally styled and celebrity inspired full & front lace wigs that look, move and feel real. They are lightweight and comfortable on the scalp. No tracks, no bumps, no lumps, no disappointments. With a bond lasting up to four to six weeks through washes, perspiration, combing, styling, swimming, etc., depending on your adhesive preference.

“You can choose a hair style, hair texture, hair length, hair color and fullness to match your personal look and style that fits you. Invest in your beauty.

You’re so worth it! Love my lace wigs are convenient, offering you freedom from the aggravation of daily hair mainte-

nance, without the damage & stress that weaving & braiding can cause to your hairline.”

For now, Whiteru is content operating her business online and at her Southwest Houston store. But with the way business is going right now, the entrepreneur knows, it’s only a matter of time before she branches out.

“Houston is home for now this is the first shop so I’ll see how things go over a five year period and see where things go from there,” she said.

Please visit us online 24/7 @ www. lovemylacewigs.com.

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10.

Business Entrepreneur

Michelle Rodriguez President of HSW Financial I read somewhere in Entrepreneur magazine this year that if businesses approached their business like an entrepreneur does then our economy would be in a much better place today. I consider myself a “Business Entrepreneur”. When I was 21 years old I got on the computer and made some homemade business card for myself. These business cards had my name centered in the middle; underneath my name you found the title “Entrepreneur”; to the bottom far left it had my home number; and to the bottom far right my cell phone number. My first venture as an

entrepreneur came with the birth of my daughter. I was managing a career in finance and banking at the time, so my mother stayed home with my daughter for the first two years. We did look forward to sending her to daycare, but like most new moms I wanted her to be able to communicate her needs in advance.

After the two years, we discovered that we couldn’t find quality care at most of these daycare centers. So then I decided that we would open our own daycare center to meet the community needs. I moved back home with a combined effort as a family, a lot of determination, we found the perfect location and it was sought after by some well established companies. Well I went in watch how the other companies demonstrated their interest; listened to what the people in the surrounding area thought they needed; and learned about the area’s developmental plans; and came out with my first win. We opened the daycare center and we opened it without a loan.

I knew there would be risks, but what’s risk to a “Business Entrepreneur”. Today we proudly have three locations in the greater Houston area. As for my career in finance and banking, I stayed with the bank. I never knew where it would take me, but I knew one thing, I still had my entrepreneur spirit…more than ever. So I watched, listened and learned the finance/banking business.

Very early I decided that I wanted to infuse my talents as an entrepreneur with

my career. As a minority I was knocked down day after day but I kept going.

After 10 years in the field I became very knowledgeable and ended up working on deals in excess of $150ML. Eventually I became the President of a multimillion dollar company. The truth of the matter is people talk about this glass ceiling, loosely, but I believe it’s a myth to those who really really work hard.

Because…. “NO ONE CAN HOLD US DOWN BUT OURSELVES”.

Some of you may be thinking that there are a lot of people out there that work hard; where are their breaks; what’s really the secret? I could add endurance to the mix and tell you this…… if I knew how to bottle it I would; but I can’t even explain it to you; sometimes it can just be in your blood; or it’s just something that has built up over a lifespan of sweat. There are people out there that have tried to coin a term for it; you may have heard the term “Rainmaker”.

At the end of the day, I can also tell you that my humility is my guide and being a good listener has truly been my oasis for success. Can it be that simple? Of course it can be the Donald said it…..

“Watch, listen and learn. You can’t know it all yourself. Anyone who thinks they do is destined for mediocrity.” – Donald Trump. So don’t miss out on the moments; you might be ordinary like me; but I guarantee that you can do some pretty extraordinary things with a little effort!

Save Money on Healthcare Costs Health care costs keep rising and many people are paying more out of the family budget for medical care than in the past. In 2007, people spent nearly $268.6 billion in out-of-pocket expenses, according to the American Hospital Association. It may feel like these costs are out of your control, but there are things you can do to save money and still get quality health care. Here are a few tips:

Choose the most appropriate facility.

• Urgent care vs.same day appointment. Many people assume that the fastest way to get in to see a doctor is to head to an urgent care center.

But it generally costs more to do that. Many doctors now hold open space for same day appointments to make sure that they are available to see their patients who need same day attention. So, call your doctor’s jan. 15 - Feb. 15 2010

office first to see if you can schedule a same day appointment.

• Retail clinics can offer convenient, quick and affordable access to care for common medical conditions such as strep throat, ear infections and minor burns. They are often located within department, drug or grocery stores. Most are open nights and weekends. Your health insurance may cover these visits, or offer them at discounted rates. Check your benefits documents or your health plan’s Web site for information.

• The Emergency Room (ER) serves an important role in providing immediate care to people with serious, often life-threatening issues. However, many people go to the ER for issues that are much less serious. Not only can this slow down the ER’s ability to help people with more serious illness or injury, but it can also www.

mean unnecessary costs for you. The national average cost for an ER visit is about $1,000. The average cost of an office visit is around $60.

Save on medications • Generic drugs have the identical active chemical ingredients as the brand name drugs but can be much less expensive. Ask your doctor if there are generics available for any of the medications you take. If there aren’t, ask if there are other drugs in the same class of drugs that could treat your condition that do have a generic available. On average, you can save $200 per prescription per year by using generics.

• A formulary (or drug list) is a list of medications covered under your benefit plan. You usually pay less if your doctor prescribes a medication that is on your health plan’s drug list. Before visiting your doc-

Michelle Rodriguez is the President of HSW Financial. HSW Financial one of the nation’s leading buyers and servicers of commercial debt. HSW, with offices in Texas and California, buys both performing and non-performing commercial portfolios from banks and equipment leasing and finance companies. HSW uses a business model that is structured into 4 phases: Acquisition, Servicing, Sales, and Private Labeling.

More information on HSW Financial can be found by visiting the company’s website at www.HSWFinancial.com.

Michelle also holds a Bachelors of Science in Legal Studies and is currently pursuing her law degree. Michelle has two published articles Commercial Debt Buyers – “A Source of Needed Cash in a Down Economy” and “Commercial Debt Buyers: Bridging the Gap”. Michelle is a member of the Equipment Leasing and Finance Association; the National Equipment Finance Association; Debt Buyers International and the National Association for Professional Women. Michelle is also active within her community and holds a position as Chairman and CEO for the New ADDition Foundation. The New ADDition Foundation was formed to help address the challenges associated with early childhood development issues, adversely impacting inner-city youth.

Our focal point has been to work hand and hand in capturing many of these development issues early and through activate participation institute an array of programs, through Habitat Partners, around the community needs for the betterment of the child.

For more information please visit our website @ www.newadditionfoundation.com tor, call your plan and ask if you pay less for medications on the list.

If so, bring a copy of your plan’s drug list to your next doctor visit.

• Many medications that were once available only by prescription are now available without a prescription. Not only are over-the-counter medications convenient since you don’t need a prescription from your doctor, but they can also save you money.

For more tips, visit www.cigna.com/ learn4yourhealth – you’ll find a healthcare game, pod casts and interactive educational courses on topics such as how to reduce your out-of-pocket costs, new healthcare options that save money and improve your health, and how to make sense of your health coverage plan. Every time you review a course, you’ll have a chance to receive free coupons to entertainment, food, and retail destinations. You can also access the program from the CIGNA Facebook page or YouTube.

-Family Features 11.

Compassionate Competitiveness

By Diedria B. Joseph Contributing Writer Being a Lady Growing up as a young girl, I was often taught to “mind my manners” and to have impeccable etiquette, for after all, I was a “lady” and not a rough and tumble little boy. We were taught to speak like a lady, walk like a lady, and of course to dress like a lady. This usu-

individuals who often have some sort of chip on their shoulder regarding their gender role. These fictional women are usually in competition with their peers and especially other women. How often do we see portrayals of women working ally involved keeping your ruffled dress together to get a job done? nice and clean and politely asking for sugar in your faux tea parties. As I be- Competition As female business people, we are came a teenager, it translated into allowing a gentleman to open the door me empowered, educated, and well-suited among other gestures. A few decades to run offices, small business and Forlater, we are questioning the true mean- tune 500 companies. But often times, ing of feminism and debating over what those media images ring true of women defines a present-day “lady,” a balance being “catty” or in constant competition between independence and more tradi- with their female peers. To be successful in business, you must have a comtional female characteristics. petitive nature with no exceptions. As Female Perception women, we should never let our guard Some professional business women down and always work towards achievare still having trouble knowing their ing higher goals. This often involves berole and stance in the “good ole boys” ing in competition with our peers and club. But more and more, as female fellow business owners. Free markets alCEOs and leaders are becoming more low for there to be a healthy amount of commonplace, it has become easier for competition and said competition often women to establish their footing in a helps us reach higher goals. But compecompetitive business world. Despite tition does have to be cruel and blatant. these advances, business women are often misrepresented in the media. In Collaboration many television shows, business women Stereotypically, women are said to are featured as backstabbing, conniving be more compassionate than men. As

business women, it is easy to throw our maternal instincts out of the door. But we should uphold standards of compassion in our business dealings. Despite being in competition (whether we like to admit it or not) with peers and fellow business owners, we should also show some heart when considering them. Do you turn your head when you largest competitor steps in the room? If so, you are missing an opportunity for collaboration. This is an opportunity to work with your competitor to tackle various issues that you both are facing. By turning down your competitive nature and allowing a sense of compassion to enter your interaction, you allow for an opportunity of collaborate so you both benefit from working together.

Diedria B. Joseph is President/CEO of Topp Knotch Personnel, Inc. Topp Knotch Personnel offers various services such as Executive Recruiting/Direct Hire, Temporary Placement, Temp to Hire, and Contract Staffing nationwide. We are the link between companies seeking diverse talent and skilled candidates looking for jobs. For more information, please visit our website at www.toppknotchpersonnel.com.

WIN WITH FRIENDS KNOW YOUR LEVELS

By Nikki Brooks

Everything in life revolves around relationships. How we manage relationships is a contributing factor to your keys to success. I would like to share some wisdom keys that I have learned that will help you to successfully manage the relationships in your life.

You share yourself with every person in your life at 1 of 5 levels:

Level 1 - AVOIDANCE. These are people that you avoid. (i.e., The Kirby guy, the telemarketers, etc.)

Level 2 - FACTS. These are people that you are comfortable enough to share facts with. (Hello, my name is....)

Level 3 - OPINIONS. (I love our President! I didn’t vote for Him...)

Level 4 - FEELINGS. (I am feeling insecure, I hate where I work and am looking for a new job.)

Level 5 - DEEPEST NEEDS. (I have a gambling problem, I am cheating on my spouse.)

Every person in your life is at one of these levels. Level 4’s and Level 5’s are important relationships that should be given care and concern because they are the granted intimate access to you, jan. 15 - Feb. 15 2010

& are influencing your heart and your focus.

One of 3 scenarios could be hindering the proper placement of connections in your life: 1. You are throwing a Perpetual Pity party, and have no level 4-5’s because you have isolated yourself from others. ways value people in your life, the roles or we have wrong ones.

But what’s even worse is that when they have played, and the needs that 2. You have too many people at level 4-5’s. If you call seven or eight peo- we discover that a relationship needs they have met, but you cannot be afraid ple every time a crisis hits then you to be redefined - it’s done in a way that to outgrow someone and apply wisdom lacks discretion or attacks character, and in that connection. Constantly evaluate are lacking then that is too many. therefore burns a bridge. You don’t have relationships, but always redefine with 3. You have unqualified Level 4-5’s. the right to hold others responsible for love and grace.

Just because a person is unqualified If I am your level 5, but you are my the level of access they have to you. It’s for a certain level now, doesn’t mean level 3 - that’s called ministry and men- not their fault - it’s yours.

I have found that God’s grace in our they won’ be later. Sometimes you are torship- something we all need at different times and in different ways and lives will often go out and hire what we just being exposed to a different mindforms. You MUST have level 5’s in your need in the form of friendship, but as set because God needs you to get there life because you need accountability. we grow and develop we sometimes try first so that you are equipped to bring Your level 5 can be a minister, colleague, to give a seasonal person lifetime tenure others. You can’t take everyone with or friend, but they should be trustworthy with their current level. You should al- you, but you can bring them TO you. and discreet. But you should never allow pressure to push you or others beyond a Let us Promote your Business, Your level that is not comfortable for both.

It is the sole right of every indiEvent, or You! Advertise today in vidual on this planet to determine the D-MARS Business Journal level of access that you have to them, as well as the boundaries and margins, and what often hinders women in friendCall US TODAY! ships is the levels. We have too many,

713.272.9511

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12.

How to develop the Attitude of a Successful Business Woman

If you want to be a success in business, know that you can be successful.

But it’s up to you to make up your mind and decide that you are going to be a success. You can’t simply sit and wait on anyone to do anything for you.

It’s up to you to decide that you are going to make things happen in your life.

Albert Einstein was once quoted as saying, “A problem cannot be solved with the same mentality that created it.”

So if your cash is always running short or if you have problems with customer retention, change starts with you.

Your attitude is a major key to your success in business. Being a leader suggests that there is someone following you, and that someone will follow the emotional tone that you set, because you are the leader. If you are negative, they’ll be negative. Is the glass half empty? Or is it half full? Your perception creates your reality.

Do you already have it set in your mind that business is hard? Maybe you think that you aren’t good with money.

Maybe you think that you can’t build a successful business because you are a woman, or because your race? Whatever your perception is, it will create your reality. President Obama could have easily said, “there has never been a Black president,” or “Maybe I need to be in the Senate a few more years before I run.” But he chose to create his own reality, and you can do the same with your business.

Now I know that this may sound like a lot of hype. You are probably thinking that I am somehow out of touch with reality and don’t know how hard your current situation is. Truthfully, I may not know your personal situation, but I know that you can succeed if you stick with it. The key to success in keeping a positive attitude is that you have to have motivation. However, if you are going to be motivated you have to truly understand motivation. jan. 15 - Feb. 15 2010

When I grew up, my parents used to make me go to church every Sunday. We went to the Westridge Missionary Park First Baptist Church. Every Sunday they would take up two offerings. After the second offering it was typical to hear a fast upbeat song as the people marched around to drop their offering in the bucket. During this song there would always be this one lady on the front row that would get “happy” as we used to say. First, she started out by crying and rocking from side to side. Then, before you knew it she would just up and be dancing around the church screaming, “Thank You!” The first time I saw this I was puzzled. Then someone told me that it was normal, and that she just had the “Holy Ghost.” At that point, I’d never heard of the Holy Ghost and I remember going to church every Sunday petrified that the Holy Ghost was going to get on me. Then I’d be the one dancing around the church.

I know you’re probably wondering what the Holy Ghost has to do with business and motivation. Well, many of us think about motivation the same way that I thought about the Holy Ghost.

We think that motivation is this supernatural force that will come upon us and compel us to do something that we already know we are supposed to do.

Motivation is not a feeling. It’s not an emotion. Motivation is a choice that you have to make. Think about it.

Motivation…what do you hear in that word? If you said motive, then you’re correct. The root of the word motivation is motive. Motive is defined as a compelling reason to act. A compelling reason to act. If you can’t define why you’re doing what you’re doing, eventually you’re going to stop. Why do you want a business? You have to be able to answer that, and your answer will be that spark that keeps you going in the rough times. Because I’m going to honest with you, having a successful business is hard. If you’re like me when I started, as a young 19-year-old college student, you’ve probably seen one to many episodes of LifeStyle of the Rich and Famous. So you are probably more caught up in what’s in it for you. How much money you can make, and what color your first Bentley will be. But www.

that “may” be the end product, if you can endure the process. Business isn’t just glory and glamour, and truth be told, your business isn’t even about you.

When I speak at banquets or leadership events for business owners or college entrepreneurship groups I often ask one simple question, that few can answer. Why does your business exist?

Most will answer something along the line of to make money, or some other self serving answer. If you want to be a successful entrepreneur you have to know the answer, which is the most important key to success. A business exists for one reason and one reason alone, to solve a problem or meet a need. Most young, and even some old business owners don’t understand this. The only problem they are trying to solve is the fact they are broke. That’s why many businesses fail, we think our businesses are about us, but its about being able to serve the needs of others.

This may sound basic, but it is imperative to being a successful business woman. When I speak, for college students or even adults and they tell me how my book has helped them or that my presentation has touched them in someway, that to me is the greatest joy there is. Helping others to solve a problem. As a result I am asked to speak for various conferences, leadership pro-

gram, and schools place bulk orders of my book, because it helps their students or particular organization. When I become, frustrated from spending hours writing working on the next book or spending days away from my family in order to speak at a conference. I just remember my motive, then I am motivated to keep a positive attitude and to press on.

This is the same for each and every business or potential business owner reading this. Having a successful business can be challenging, but for me the reward far exceed the negatives. When considering whether to start that business or whether to continue on…remember your motive.

You can be a success in business and any area of life that you desire. Success is not a matter of chance, it’s a matter of CHOICE! Change your attitude and you’ll be amazed what you can accomplish.

Jerome Love Speaker/Author/ Contrapreneur™

The Houston Rockets and University of Phoenix Honor African-American Heroes for Black History Month

Houston – The Houston Rockets and University of Phoenix, a leader in higher education that offers associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degree programs to working professionals, will celebrate Black History Month by honoring several everyday heroes from the African-American community.

The Rockets and the University are currently accepting nominations for exceptional individuals who have demonstrated leadership and passion in six categories such as education, non-profit organization, criminal justice, student, community and military. The finalists will be selected at the end of January and will be honored during every home basketball game in February.

In addition, for the second year in a row, University of Phoenix will also award two full-tuition scholarships and laptop computers to individuals who would like to fulfill their dreams of an advanced education. Christina Robinson Grochett, University of Phoenix – Vice President and State Director of South Texas, will present the scholarships and

laptops to the recipients during halftime at the Rockets’ February 6 and 26 games. The Black History Month scholarships will provide potential students with the opportunity to complete a degree program of their choice at University of Phoenix via online or at one of the six campus and learning center locations in the Greater Houston, the Woodlands or Sugarland areas.

To nominate a family member, friend, co-worker or community leader for the Black History Month Scholarship or award honor, please go to www.phoenix.edu/rockets or call (866) 992-8147.

“We are excited to honor the achievements, history and contributions of the unsung heroes who have helped cultivate the community,” said Grochett.

“They inspire us to be better and as we honor them for Black History Month, this is our way of saying thank you.”

University of Phoenix, which is the Houston Rockets’ premier education institution, launched its first campus in Houston in 2001 and has expanded to six campus and learning center locations in the Greater Houston, the Woodlands and Sugarland areas.

13.

“Women in it to win it, more than a notion, it’s downright proverbial!”

By Author Noel Pinnock, B.S., M.P.A., C.A., CCC, Contributing Writer The expression “virtuous woman” is from the Hebrew ishshah chayil and literally means one of power either in mind or body, or both. As one source comments, “She is the perfect housewife, the chaste helpmate of her husband, upright, God-fearing, economical, wise” (The Pulpit Commentary, Vol. 9, pg. 597). I submit that the virtuous woman of Proverbs 31 stands as an ideal example of God’s woman viewed from such facets as wife, mother, sister, auntie, grandmother, manufacturer, merchant, CEO, lawyer, pharmacist, astronaut, doctor, legislator, pharmacist, engineer, homemaker, teacher, professor, entertainer, counselor, preacher, and landowner. Let me introduce the virtuous woman who is in it to win it, according to the Psalmist in Psalm 31:1021 (NIV): “10

Who can find a virtuous woman? For her price is far above rubies. 11 The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her, so that he shall have no need of spoil. 12 She will do him good and not evil all the days of her life. 13 She seeks wool, and flax, and works willingly with her hands. 14 She is like the merchants’ ships; she brings her food from afar. 15 She rise also while it is yet night and give meat to her household and a portion to her maidens. 16 She considers a field, and buys it: with the fruit of her hands she plant vineyard. 17 She girds her loins with strength, and strengthens her arms.

18 She perceives that her merchandise is good: her candle go not out by night. 19 She lays her hands to the spindle and her hands hold the distaff. 20 She stretches out her hand to the poor; yea, she reaches jan. 15 - Feb. 15 2010

forth her hands to the needy. 21 She is not afraid of the snow for her household: for all her household are clothed with scarlet. 22 She makes herself coverings of tapestry; her clothing is silk and purple.

These divine words should not only be received notionally but also proverbially. It becomes more and more transparent that women are the backbone to our existence and through their wombs our nation, our world gives birth to life that continuously renews and replenishes the core of our very human existence.

Women in it to win it do not loose sight of their spirituality and divine purpose.

In verse 30 of this chapter, we read: 30 Favor is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that fears the LORD, she shall be praised. 31 Give her of the fruit of her hands; and let her own works praise her in the gates.”

Refreshing isn’t…the virtuous woman works provoke praise in the gates. What gates? Well, the gates in life: church, home, work, school, market, civic, etc. A woman who chooses to win focuses on her spirituality and divine purpose as well as embraces her future in order to illuminate her path of victory.

My wife of over 13 years was challenged in her last semester of college when she reached the bottom of her last trimester with our first child. As you can imagine, she was more then ready to give birth and was not really trying to sit in a classroom; nonetheless, commuting to and from the university campus. However, she had an internal desire to win and not let her physical condition, albeit natural, pose a hindrance or an impediment to completing her last semester.

She was striving to be one the first generation of college graduates in her immediate family circle and kept that at the forefront of her thinking. She would recite this prayer of fortitude each morning before she would head-off to class: “Dear Lord, accomplishing anything requires discipline; determined deliberate, definable actions with a clear goal in mind. I want you to use me despite my extra load to do your wonders.

Lord, here I am. I want to be your suit of clothes. Take me and use me and just walk around in me today. I thank you Lord for your guidance, protection, and provisions.”

She not only had to face the rigors www.

of senior level courses but she had to contend with the ever-evolving challenges of labor. We experienced Braxton Hicks contractions, several false alarms, and increased hormonal encounters while she studied for exams, completed projects and constructed voluminous research papers. Nevertheless, she never lost sight of her appointed (divine) purpose. In the bottom of the ninth, she was able to finish two races; she uneventfully gave birth to our 7 lbs 12 oz son and was one of the first in her family to graduate from college and I

proudly say with honors. My wife was “in it to win it” because she set a goal, chartered a path, and never stopped trying to achieve it because accomplishing anything required discipline.

I am sure there are many other women that have their “in it to win it” stories, especially in this edition of DMars Business Journal but I would venture to say that at the heart of winner circle rests the essence and characteristics of the virtuous woman. So, who can find a virtuous woman? For her price is far above rubies…says the Lord!

14.

been two weeks, but you should consult your employee handbook in case your employer expects more advance warning.

• Hiring. Offer to help your current employer find your replacement.

• Training. Volunteer to train your replacement.

By Carla Lane, Contributing Writer • Working. Don’t disappear during the last weeks on the job. Stay an active I am thinking about outsourcing my payroll next year. member of the team.

The whole payroll process and reporting is stressing • Completing. Be sure to complete all me! But I’m not really sure we can afford it. Or if open assignments and leave detailed I even have enough employees for it to make sense to outprogress reports for your supervisor source. I know that LaneStaffing offers this service, how and co-workers. does it all work?

• Leaving. Before walking out the door Outsourcing particular busi- more efficiently than you can. for the last time, be sure you have ness tasks can enable you contact information for key employDiversePayroll Partners provide varito free up resources and enees that you want to keep part of your ous services, including but not limited to: ergy to focus on your core network of contacts. competencies. Payroll is an important * Calculating pay checks for each Finally, when composing your letemployee function and in all likelihood it makes sense to outsource payroll adminis- * Addressing tax obligations on a local, ter of resignation — and yes, always retration rather than hire resources insign in writing — be professional. Keep state, and federal level house, to do them yourself or to dele- * Printing and delivering checks the letter or memo short and sweet, and gate them to a staff member who is not to the point. State your intention of a payroll specialist. Payroll companies * Providing management reports leaving (giving a specific last day), give like DiversePayroll Partners help you * Tracking employee benefits reason for leaving (but only if you are information organize your payroll, adhere to policomfortable doing so), and thank both cies and procedures, and get employ- * Automatic check signatures your supervisor and the company for ees paid on time. * Providing direct deposit the opportunities you have had workTo stay on top of your tax obliga- * Processing W-2 forms ing for them. tions is reason enough for your compa- * Processing 401k and mutual ny to consider using a payroll provider, fund plans My supervisor has made comno matter how large or small your pay- * Addressing tax needs for your ments about my choice of company and providing tax roll is. Payroll administration warrants clothing. I think I look pretty preparation attention to detail and even the smallest good. Can you offer any advice on proindiscretion can attract heavy penalties Hiring a payroll provider is an im- fessional dress for women? I can’t afford from the tax authorities. The IRS has a portant decision for your business. Di- to spend a lot of money on clothes just history of levying heavy fines on small versePayroll Partners is here to assist you to satisfy her clothing fetish! businesses for even the smallest trans- in this important decision. Visit us on Though it may seem petty, appeargression. Recently released statistics the web at www.lanestaff.com. ance is critical to first impressions in netshow that one out of every three small working, interviewing and in the workbusinesses is penalized in some way for place. Cosmetics, fragrance, accessories, I have found another job! not complying with tax laws.

How do I resign gracefully? clothing, grooming, and handbag really If you company is large enough, you One of the most important rules do matter. Not presenting a polished may choose to conduct payroll functions — call it etiquette, common sense, look may cost you. in-house but be prepared to hire at least Remember the scene in Pretty whatever — that job-seekers must ala couple of employees dedicated to this Woman when none of the sales clerks ways remember is to NEVER burn any function. You will also have to allocate in the Rodeo Drive boutiques would bridges with previous employers. No resources to continuously train your help Julia Roberts’ character? With her matter whether you hated the employpayroll staff in use of accounting softtight, revealing clothes, no one took her er or your supervisor, it is always best ware and to keep up with the frequently seriously, even though she had plenty of to leave on as pleasant terms as possishifting state and federal tax laws. Also if cash in hand. But when she went back to ble. Job-hunting is a funny process and you are a growing company that is conthe same store a few days later, dressed to tinuously adding new employees, teams you never know when you’ll run smack perfection, sales clerks were falling over and locations, managing payroll is going right into your former supervisor or themselves to help her. Both times their to be quite a challenge. Do you really former employer (through a merger or responses were based purely on attire. want to get distracted from the core- other circumstance).

Or what about in Monique’s Phat So, to make as smooth a transition functions of your business by adminisGirl’s her character becomes a different tering payroll yourself? Companies like from your current employer to your person when she goes to work her deDiversePayroll Partners, are experts in new one, you’ll want to act profession- partment store job dressed to the nines what we do and have economies of scale ally and follow company guidelines. in her own designs. For better or worse, since we administer payroll for many Specifically: how you dress often determines how other companies. We will deliver payroll • Timing. Give enough notice. The people react to you. And it ALWAYS afservices to your company cheaper and standard notice has traditionally fects how you feel. jan. 15 - Feb. 15 2010

www.

Here are some tips on how to always look polished and professional at the office: • Follow the dress code of your office.

Even with a casual dress code, avoid short skirts, low-cut necklines, tootight clothes, and anything bordering too sexy.

• Store an emergency white blouse in your office in case you spill coffee or even lunch down the front of yourself. These accidents typically happen when you have an important meeting later in the day. Keep an extra pair of hose around too, just in case you spot a run.

• If you plan to socialize after work and want to bring clothes to change into, be discreet. If co-workers see you in something sexy every Friday after work, you will develop the reputation of a partier. Fair or not, this reputation carries negative connotations. You can dress up your work clothes to go from daytime to evening. Remove your suit jacket to reveal a pretty camisole. Add jewelry and swap flats for heels.

• Buy the right clothes to begin with.

If you can’t afford a big dry cleaning bill every week, be aware of this when shopping. If possible, spend a little more money for good quality clothes that will last. These are the clothes you are going to be wearing for most of your day, and in most cases for at least five days per week. Clothes affect your self-esteem, so it’s important that you like them.

• Buy shoes you can wear with many outfits, black and brown always make sense.

• Do pay attention to details. Scuffed shoes and mutilated heels are a “NONO!” • Manicured nails are a must (no chips please) - even if you don’t opt for polish.

• Too much makeup - like those bright red over-outlined lips and dark-lined runway eyes - is a definite don’t.

• Hair should always be neat and clean!

My best advice is one my mother gave me long ago. “Dress for the job you want, not the job you have!” Look at your supervisor, how does she dress?

I’m not recommending you spend what she spends, or even adopt her style. I am saying if she wears a suit, you wear a suit; if she always wears a jacket, always wear a jacket. Your supervisor mostly likely has taken a path to wear she is, why not follow it, if it leads to success!

15.

Take Care of Yourself

By Carla Lane Contributing Writer It’s easy to forget to make time for yourself when you have an important meeting, three kids in three different schools, a traveling spouse and commitments in your community to juggle.

The truth is, making time for yourself is an art, and like every art, it requires practice. You deserve to live your life exactly the way you want. If you don’t pilot your own plane, someone else will.

Don’t let others determine the quality of your life -- take charge of that process yourself.

Most of us struggle with the guilt that comes with making time for ourselves. “Isn’t it selfish to focus on yourself?” we wonder. Actually, it’s selfish not to spend time with yourself. We lose ourselves because we are afraid of being selfish, but when we turn around and take care of ourselves, we actually become much happier and more generous.

Remember the safety instructions you get when you board a lane: “Put your oxygen mask on first in case of emergency. Then put the mask on children and others who need your help.”

The reasoning behind the instructions if you pass out from lack of oxygen, you can’t help those who need your help!

The same goes in everyday life, if your tank is on empty you can’t help those who need your help! You have to take time to take care of you!

It’s a novel concept, isn’t it; somebody taking care of you? Well, that somebody ultimately has to be you, and I know how it is, you’re way too busy taking care of everybody else to give yourself any time. But, let me tell you why you have to take care of yourself, and give you some ideas as to how to do accomplish this monumental feat.

You’re the Mom – and if you’re out of commission, everybody suffers. If you can’t manage to take care of yourself, for yourself, then take care of yourself for everybody else! A well-rested, happy Mom is much more likely to have hapjan. 15 - Feb. 15 2010

Winners Remain in the Game for Life

py, thriving children. If you’re tired, unaccomplished, and irritated it will start to show. You’ll be grumpy to say the least; at worst you could be downright dangerous when doing something like driving a car. A frazzled Mom is no good to anyone.

How you treat yourself is how you’re teaching your children to treat you. If you never let your children see that you have needs, or that you take the time to meet those needs, you’re teaching them that you are, indeed, a doormat, and should be treated as such.

Ok, so now you know you need to take care of yourself, physically and emotionally, but how do you make it happen?

Start with your calendar put some appointments in it that will let you have some time to yourself. You choose the activities that will soothe your soul, but whatever they are, make time for them. A few hours a week devoted to something you love other than your family, and your job will help keep you refreshed and feeling like your old self.

Ask for help, you know by now that men are different, right? Well, one of the ways they are different is that they don’t mind telling their partner what they need. And they expect the same from us. If you need your husband to plan to watch the children for three hours every Saturday so that you can have some time to go to lunch, get a massage, shop, whatever, you need to tell him. He’s not going to come up with that idea on his own, but if you tell him what you need, he’s likely to oblige.

Make friends with other women in the same boat. There is no substitute for a girlfriend who understands. If you’re a stay at home mom, find some others to hang out with. It may mean some company for you and a play date for your child at the same time. If you’re a working Mom trying to juggle everything, hook up with some other working Mothers to talk things through. It works wonders to know you’re not alone. Plus, you might get some valuable ideas for handling some of the issues you face.

As the Mom, you’re really the heart of your family. Your well being translates into everyone’s well being. Take the time to enjoy the whole person that you are, not just the Mom.

www.

Change Your Life by Suzette Caldwell, the act of praying is described as the “vehicle God uses to accomplish His plans for our lives”. Therefore, our focus when we pray should be on God’s business. What does God want to accomplish through us?

As a highly successful AfricanAmerican woman full of faith and determination, I have allowed my God given gifts and talents to become my additional streams of income.

My faith without works would never accomplish His desires for me. “Faith without works is dead.” Therefore I have used the following gifts with faith to accelerate my level of living:

Dr. Jacqueline Horton Cobbin Owner of Divine Closet

W

hen you are a believer in Christ Jesus and follow the written Word, then, you realize that God will equip you to do His work……..work that is pleasing to Him. This is how you remain “In It To Win It!” No matter what is happening in my personal or professional life, I continue to praise God and give thanks to Him daily for life, health and strength. His loving kindness and tender mercies are new every morning.

If you are like me, you have probably heard a lot of negative talk over the years. We all have had people in our lives that have disappointed us. The first step in becoming a “Winning Woman” is to understand the power of “self talk”.

It is so important to “say to yourself ” what the Word of God says about you and your life. Daily you must say it, and believe it. “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” As for as people are concern, if you ask God to direct your path He will clearly show you people and strategies that will help you to succeed.

Secondly, I choose to believe the Bible when it says in Psalms 37 to “delight yourself in the Lord (speak highly and brag about the Lord) and He will give you the desires of your heart”. You must have faith in God. The Word says that, “What things you desire when you pray, believe that you will receive them and you will have them”. Then, when you pray, you must forgive. If you have an issue against anyone, and you want God’s forgiveness, you must forgive. In the new book, Praying to

• Teaching – University and public school experience • Training – Consulting in corporate, faith-based, profit and non-profit organizations • Writing – Published several manuscripts, articles, book, CDs. Use editing skills for others professionals • Marketing Fashion – Own a “Galleria-like” Clothing Boutique for women and girls, as well as, provide custom tailoring for men and boys.

Finally and more importantly, I am a faithful wife, a devoted mother and loving grandmother. I do not take these responsibilities for granted. My life is always on stage. I intend to live and leave a legacy of what it takes to be “In It to Win It!” What I will win is a place in heaven and eternal life, forever more.

You can do the same. Remember to: (1) believe in God (2) say to yourself what God says (3) choose to believe and have faith (4) forgive (5) use your gifts and talents. Live a life of PURPOSE. Do your best; Laugh About the Rest!!!!!!!!!!

Let us Promote your Business, Your Event, or You! Advertise today in D-MARS Business Journal

16.

How to attract and retain women leaders

By Christina Robinson Grochett, University of Phoenix – Houston Vice President

about trying to fit in meetings or complete projects. Other attractions include meetingfree Mondays, half days on Fridays or commuting one day a week.

Mothers.

S

ince the 1960’s when women started entering the workforce, they have been trying to break into the top rankings of corporate America. In fact, Catalyst (www.catalyst.org) completed a recent study and discovered that even though women made up almost half the labor force, only 15.2 percent of Fortune 500 board seats and15.7 percent of Fortune 500 corporate office positions were held by women in 2008.

These statistics are disappointing, especially in an era when women have the experience, education and leadership skills needed to lead companies to success. Unfortunately, because the “glass ceiling” still hovers over women and the fact that businesses aren’t equipped to properly attract and retain their talent, few women have made it to the highest levels of corporate leadership.

Women can be a powerful and valuable source in the workplace and those companies that create an inviting environment for them will have a competitive advantage. Below are the top six things women consider when deciding to work for or stay with a company.

Time. To attract and keep talented leaders, companies must offer flexibility such as variations of time and place of work. A schedule that women can tailor themselves – early hours that complement their child’s schedule or working from home when a child is sick – helps alleviate stress and anxiety jan. 15 - Feb. 15 2010

Going back to work is sometimes a difficult decision for mothers. Companies that offer new mothers extra paid time off (in addition to the six week maternity leave) to bond with a newborn or adjust to their role as parents showcase their compassion and value of families. This is important to mothers, especially single ones, who need to feel as though their companies appreciate them. Some companies have even created a network to help women with the transition back to work.

Childcare. This is sometimes the number one factor for women, especially single mothers, since daycare is so expensive. Companies that offer onsite childcare services or reimburse employees for their daycare expenses, often have content employees who are more productive because they don’t want to lose this benefit.

In addition, as the values of America continue to shift toward a more modern household; many families are inviting their elders to live with them instead of retirement homes. The extra responsibility, much like child care, can cause additional stress. As a result, some companies have extended their childcare policies for elder-care services.

Rewards.

Employees should not have to wait until their five or ten year anniversary to be recognized. Companies that have a menu of rewards for things such as going above and beyond the job, working overtime and anniversaries, have fostered a positive working environment that has a high employee morale. To make it an interactive program, managers can ask employees to nominate their colleagues for a monthly award. www.

Compensation.

A recent Time magazine and Rockefeller Foundation study about women discovered that while women have gained in the number of jobs they hold, they still lag behind men in pay, earning on average 77 cents for every $1 men earn. This obstacle has forced women to go back to school to earn their advanced degrees or, in some cases, multiple degrees to show a wide range of skills and expertise. Companies that value talent offer women the same salary, if not more, than their male counterparts. If that’s not possible, alternatives can include special retention and appreciation bonuses.

path for all of their employees – not just women. There are several initiatives to help employees work on and understand their professional development plan, which include a combination of mentorships, training seminars, professional conferences and an online resource that helps employees identify steps for building more satisfying careers.

Advancement. A simple but effective way to attract and retain women is to have a clear career path for them. As they settle into their positions, women are often thinking about what their next role is. Helping employees understand their advancement can be as easy as having meaningful discussions about their career or creating a training or mentoring program that develops and sharpens their leadership skills.

Organizations that attract, develop and retain talented women will have an immediate and ongoing competitive advantage, especially during this economic downturn. According to the Time Magazine study, three out of four jobs lost have been men’s jobs, and now 2 million wives are supporting their families while their unemployed husbands search for work. Company policies and practices that help women balance successful careers with rich personal lives will have productive employees who are positive ambassadors for the organization.

As an education champion, I had to break through my own “glass ceiling” in academia. For decades, the education industry was dominated by men. University of Phoenix, however, has a clear career

Christina Robinson Grochett is the State Vice President/ Director of South Texas for University of Phoenix. An accomplished leader and champion of higher learning, she was selected as a 2009 Women of Influence by Houston Woman Magazine and a Top 10 business women by the American Business Women’s Association in 2008. Under her leadership, the Houston campuses were selected as a 2009 Best Place to Work by The Houston Business Journal and were awarded with the 2009 and 2008 Alfred P. Sloan Awards from the City of Houston for Workplace Flexibility and Innovation.

Let us Promote your Business, Your Event, or You!

713.272.9511 17.

Dreams do Come True with Perseverance & Self-Belief

Crystal Cooper- Pharm D., self-publisher www.crystalcooper.com Dr. Crystal Cooper was born July 20, 1979 and raised in the “South Park” area of Houston, Texas. As many Houstonians know, silver spoons are not common in the mouths of kids in

this area, but like many, Crystal craved for success. She was raised between the two separate households of her parents, whom never married. She was able to overcome many hardships presented during her childhood and unsteady family life, while achieving high honors throughout school and writing achievement recognitions. She graduated from the “High School of Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice” in 1998 in high ranking.

Crystal next attended the historically black college Texas Southern University as a full-time pharmacy student and worked full time. She managed to juggle paying installments for her higher education and only seemed to find her reasoning as usual in her life through writing. In 2002, Crystal became a selected candidate chosen to attend Texas Southern College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences. While in her second year of pharmacy school, Crystal published her first book of poetry and had great success, but decided to hold off pursuing

writing because school was much more important to her. In May 2006, she graduated from pharmacy school with a Doctorate’s Degree in pharmacology in high rankings again and as a mother to be.

Crystal immediately showed her strength in her field by becoming the pharmacy manager of a retail pharmacy and acquiring the many trades necessary in such a continuously evolving field.

Crystal, more importantly has compromised to her greatest challenges now of raising her lively son singly, upstanding her pharmacy profession, and successfully completing her second book. Dr. Crystal Cooper has risen to the very occasion of seizing life. Her second book “Live Affairs Made Into Poetry” is now available and expected to be another huge success. Crystal has always believed that dreams do come true with perseverance and self-belief. She finds value in her life through writing and she is currently working to complete her third book.

“Live Affairs Made Into Poetry” is a book of poetry walking readers through many theaters of life, relationships, and

Learn about living debt free and taking control over your financial future

By Richard T. Gorham, Contributing Writer A budget is an extremely valuable tool for living debt-free. Living debtfree requires a person to be diligent in their spending habits. The best timetested way to ensure you stay on track for meeting your financial goals is to plan ahead and follow a well thought out budget.

Living on a budget just doesn’t feel comfortable to you. Hearing that you have to follow a budget is like the doctor telling you that you have to go on a diet.

In both cases, however, the words are nothing more than words, these words can’t hurt you. It’s our negative associations with the words that give them the power to intimidate us.

Your “diet/food log” is simply a record of all the food you eat, good or bad. When your doctor says to go on a diet, what he means is, eat healthy, wellportioned foods and increase your daily exercise.

Similarly, your “budget” is just a list of where all your money is going to go for the next 30 days. You have the ability to include even a few frivolous expenditures if you wish. jan. 15 - Feb. 15 2010

Following a budget simply means that you have decided to take control over your financial reality and you are intent upon keeping your financial house in order, turning it into a happier, healthier environment.

Living debt-free does not mean that you have to give up all the fun stuff. Just as the occasional dessert is okay when you’re on a diet, the occasional frill is okay when you’re on a budget. It’s all about moderation, planning ahead and following a thoughtful strategy for success.

Following a budget is truly a positive thing, because it gives you more control over your money. By tracking your actual expenses for a month, then analyzing where everything is going, you can quickly see at a glance where you’re wasting money and how it would be smarter to put that money somewhere else.

A budget allows you to proactively manage your finances and work toward a brighter future. Every successful business follows a budget, so why wouldn’t every individual? www.

Maybe you add up your actual expenses in a month and discover, to your horror, that you spend a total of $100 a month on fast food. You never would have guessed it was that much! Are you REALLY getting $100 worth of enjoyment out of those burgers and burritos?

Or would you rather limit yourself to, say, $25 a month on fast food, and put that other $75 toward something that’s more important to you?

Living debt-free means making some sacrifices, yes. But you’ll find a lot of those “sacrifices” are things that really aren’t that hard to give up.

Now consider this: When you’re not following a specific budget, you tend to not know where all your money is going, and why you have so little money left over at the end of the month.

Once you get yourself on a budget, you’ll suddenly know everything there is to know about your finances. As a result of your increased awareness, you’ll soon discover that you have MORE freedom over your money, not less, because you’ll have all the facts in front of you.

That’s a GOOD thing, right? Liv-

self-fulfillment. The book portrays the many emotions of human beings whom may be on different pages of their own lives daily, and looking to identify life’s random affairs encountered as others.

The book captivates it readers on journeys of love, pain, truth, status, and ultimate contentment. This book, unlike many, offers today’s readers an array of poetry, short stories, and quotes that are easy to read, identify with, and value. The book also contains many illustrative graphics to set the stage for entertaining the mind’s eye for a great experience.

“Live Affairs Made Into Poetry” brings creative appeal to poetry, and is a perfect book for reading as Crystal portrays many controversial daily battles of people on ultimate quests for genuine relationships with others. Purchase your copy today and get additional information by visiting online at www.crystalcooper.com.

“Thou” There is heaven There is earth In between Are you ToMaster thy worth. ing debt-free means peace of mind because you know exactly where all your money is going. When you know where your money is going, you’ll also know what kind of future you are creating for yourself and your family.

So get started today, go to Debt-toIncome.com and get yourself on a budget and start paving the way to achieving your financial dreams.

These debt reduction tips, and many others, can be found at www.

Debt-to-Income.com, which is a new website that was created by money savings expert, Richard Gorham. Gorham is also the founder and President of www.Leadership-Tools.com and www.

LeadershipAudio.com His websites are devoted to providing free and low-cost quality tools and resources for successful living. http://greatarticlesformoms.com

Let us Promote your Business, Your Event, or You! Advertise today in D-MARS Business Journal

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Dr. Ka-Ron Wade-Dentistry

Dr. Ka-Ron Y. Wade, D.D.S. Dr. Wade holds degrees from Wiley College (B.S. in Biology), Texas Womans University (B.S.N. Nursing) and University of Texas Houston Dental Branch (D.D.S.). She is studying at the Las Vegas Institute (LVI) for Advanced Dental Studies where continuing education and advanced dental instruction are a priority. Dr. Wade is one of a handful of cosmetic dentist in Houston that holds the title of LVI Dentist.

Currently she is a premier cosmetic dentist with an office in Midtown Houston. She practices a revolutionary new kind of dentistry. The kind where artistry replaces mediocrity. Where confidence replaces uncertainty. And where excellence is instilled in everything that she does. Her business is excellence and beauty.

She is a member of the Academy of General Dentistry, an organization which fosters their continued proficiency through continuing quality education. Dr. Wade is also a member of the American Orthodontic Society, American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, the American Association of Women Dentist.

She has also received several accolades; the Kingston’s Group has had her profile published in the Kingston’s National Registry of the Who’s Who 2003 Edition, which is registered in the Library of Congress. She is also an honored member of the Cambridge Who’s Who, Houston Area Urban League and the African American Chamber of Commerce of Greater Houston. She is an active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority. Dr. Wade is also the recipient of the 2009 YMCA Minority Achievers

F.O.R.C.E

Read trade journals, periodicals, magazines, newspapers and especially the DMars Business journal to remain abreast of current events and the body of knowledge in your field. Your customers and colleagues will notice.

your

Forgive – Our emotional attachment

to the past can stall our pace to grow and progress through life. Consequently, clinging onto the past can manifest itself in poor health, broken dreams and failed relationships. In the state of “nonforgiveness” we deprive our lives of the prosperity that awaits us. Therefore, accomplish a forgiving attitude – forgive others and forgive oneself. The release of these wasteful energies will resonate in new found power and thought patterns and unfold positive actions.

By T. Q. Doyle, Image Consultant – MBA, SPHR Contributing Writer In the Information Age, your professional and personal lives are consistently exposed and this can impact your image. With responsible actions you can sway the myriad of data and comments circulating the air waves and frame the intelligence that will ultimately judge who you are. For women, this entails heightening our presence beyond our innate listening, empathizing and interpersonal skills to building a “Women In It To Win It” spirit and implementing the principles of “FORCE.” jan. 15 - Feb. 15 2010

Award and was named Houston’s Top Dentist in 2007. Her most recent accolade was the winner of the 2009 Pinnacle Award presented by the Houston Citizen Chamber of Commerce. She proudly represents the United States as a member of the U.S. Army Reserve.

Although Dr. Wade specializes in general and cosmetic dentistry, she has also dedicated her life to helping the socio-economically under-served communities in the Houston Area by providing, free of charge dental services. Dr. Wade has a passion for helping those in need.

This has been her lifelong passion since she began her medical career as a registered nurse at Texas Children’s Hospital.

It was there where she began noticing a disturbing trend, the lack of dental care for children from lower socio-economic backgrounds. This was the turning point to follow her dream of becoming a dentist. Dr. Wade graduated from the University of Texas Houston Dental Branch in 1995. In 2001 she founded Houston Medi-Dent, a non-profit organization that is committed to helping the less fortunate in the Houston community. Dr. Wade is truly changing the world one smile at a time.

Organize – Organization enables our walk through life to happen with order and purpose. The act itself does not apply solely to our surroundings but time, finances and even PEOPLE. Decision making, space allocation, completion of tasks and open communications are ordered with the goal that our lives and surroundings will enable maximum freedom for achievement of our goals.

Organization of your life is on-going start small, grow big and make it sustainable.

Consistent – Critical in building the

right image is being consistent in your actions. Consistency is a standard for which we should never fall short and appears in our communications, actions and dress. Our credibility is placed at risk when we miss the mark at aligning these things with our goals or with the image we claim. When we demonstrate high standards, we project a sharp image that exudes responsibility, quality and success. Consistency in our image strengthens our appeal to customers and distinguishes us from the rest.

Execute and Evaluate – Amaz-

ing the amount of time we devote to thinking versus doing. Though planning has its rewards, we should monitor it to avoid “analysis-paralysis.” How do you know you’ve hit “analysis – paralysis”? when you attend every “empowerment” workshop that pops on the scene, when your stack of self-help books and resources are half your height, etc. Manage the preparation phase in moderation and devote sufficient time to execution.

Along the journey of success, monitor the quality of your deliverables with Read - Reading produces many ad- feedback from customers. Your image vantages. It improves our vocabulary, can accentuate the beauty within you so expands our knowledge, stimulates give it your best nurturing and care conversation and boosts our credibility. www.

Patterns and Habits of Great Leaders

By Rod Alan Richardson Contributing Writer Can you comprehend believing that you could compete in an Olympic swimming event if you hadn’t ever set foot in a swimming pool before? Outrageous as this may appear, how many times do we approach our lives in this way?

There is an old adage that advises us to “jump in the deep end and sink or swim”. If we truly did this, everyone would end up drowning!

Every activity we encounter in this world has a certain pattern that, if we follow, will lead us to success. The more we strain and struggle against the correct pattern for succeeding, the more time it will take us to achieve the goal.

Prior to approaching any company; any kind of activity; any leadership position; or any occupation, memorize and use this process to multiply your odds of success: Learn About It- Within the business realm, this means to investigate and study. It also involves through personal experience and by watching the experts. How long does it take you to figure out on your own how your new board game works as opposed to reading the directions and watching a skilled player play?

Abraham Lincoln did an excellent job illustrating this principle when he said, “If I had six hours to cut down a tree, I’d spend the first four sharpening the axe.” When you do thorough research and study you are symbolically “sharpening the axe.” Doing this will permit you to be several times more effective when it comes to doing the physical work.

Do the Action- As soon as you have a framework of knowledge for your mind, only then should you begin practicing the task.

Know What’s in Your Garage- You possess scores of resources that are available to you already. Start making a list of all the resources you know you have. If you think hard enough, and are creative in your thinking, you will discover that you have several of the components required for success.

This pattern for success is appropriate for every aspect of life from leading a business to homemaking. So remember to learn, act, and use your resources!

Rod Alan Richardson has dedicated his life to teaching people to succeed in free enterprise through Business Training. www.greatarticlesformoms.com 23.

When Adversity Strikes Choose to Win

By Heather Haukaas, Contributing Writer

Robin Turner-Mullins, RPh Pharmacy of Houston When Mrs. Robin Turner-Mullins, asked God to take her to a whole new level in her life, she had no idea what path God would guide her on; all she knew was she had trust and faith that he would lead her to where she needed to be. Bruce Wilkinson said, “Personal change begins for each of us when we cry out to God for what God wants for us with open hands and expectant hearts.” This is exactly what Mrs. Turner-Mullins did. What she discovered

along the way was that she was “more than a conqueror” no matter how bad things seemed.

Hard-work and success have never been strangers to Mrs. TurnerMullins as she is a licensed pharmacist with over 20 years pharmacy experience, director on the Board of TSU Alumni, the owner of three Businesses: 1) Pharmacy of Houston LLC, 2) Pharmacist of Houston LLC, and 3) Tech Review Training Inc. (Non-Profit), and currently working towards her Doctorate of Pharmacy at the University of Florida.

From the outside looking in one would assume that everything is going great; after all, Mrs. Turner-Mullins has a loving family and a career that she loves.

But it has been said, “You can’t judge a book by its cover”.

Robin graced the cover of the D-MARS Business Journal entitled, “Women in It to Win It” in February of 2009. Wow! This statement means so much more to her now, since that issue her life has changed dramatically. She has endured heavy burdens that would have broken many people’s backs. These burdens began when she went in for a woman exam, and came out with a breast cancer diagnosis. This diagnosis took her for a spiritual and, emotional ride; she had a series of hospital visits undergoing a massive amount of reconstructive surgeries, and also being told

she needed a complete hysterectomy during this time so the cancer cells won’t migrate to that area. Then while having her last minor surgery, doctors found an abdominal wall hernia, which turned that surgery into major operation. Although, she was fighting with her physical body to maintain its health, she still found time to be a mother and foster mother to 11 children. With little strength, she found herself preparing and attending her god-daughter’s graduation from TSU, a step-daughter who graduated from Lamar High, and a son, who graduated from Mt. Carmel High School. If one thought that was not enough to deal with add in the fact that she was struggling with a failing marriage. So, what did she do when the going got tough? She continued to Fight, Trust God, and Win! “I felt like I was in the fiery furnace with Shadrach, Meshach and Abed-Nego, asking why? But knowing that the fire had no power over me, I just kept telling myself, I was coming out and it was not going to affect me any way.

I knew, God had to send an Angel my way, because I trusted and had faith in him. When everything is going right, it’s easy to believe that God is good and to praise Him because of it. But when life gets tough! we are tempted to question God’s goodness and “forget” to praise Him. When your life gets messy,

Mom’s Guide to Saving Time

By Aurelia Williams, Contributing Writer One precious commodity that everyone has a problem using wisely is time. One thing is for sure - we all have the same 24 hours in a day - no more, no less. However, there are things you can do to make the most of your day so that you can accomplish a lot yet still manage to have some free time to do things that you enjoy.

the meals figured out, it will be easier to come up with a shopping list based on the meals. Keep your planned meals posted on the refrigerator door so you know what needs to be prepared. Even if it is tempting to sway off the planned meals, do your best to stick to it - you can save lots of money this way and keep within your budget.

Make a plan and write it down.

Make it a habit to write a daily list of things to do and things you need.

Life gets so busy sometimes especially if you have kids. It is going to be helpful to have those lists handy. You can easily save an extra trip to the store if you have a list of things to buy. You can also figure out how you can run all your errands so that you do not have to drive back and forth. Try to shop in the evenings when stores are less busy. There is no need to waste an hour standing in line when you can do something more productive with that time. Don’t care to stand in line? Try shopping online.

Shop in bulk.

If space for groceries is not an issue, plan to shop in bulk. This will allow you to save time because you do not have to keep on going to the grocery store. You also save money because buying in bulk costs less in the long run.

tion is stocked and organized, then you won’t waste time searching for supplies you need.

Do a little housework when you can and don’t let work pile up.

If you do a bit of housework each day, then you do not have to spend an entire weekend cleaning or catching up on housework. Laundry is one thing that easily piles up. Do a load or two each day and when you can, put the clean clothes away as soon as possible.

Picking up around the house and making sure things have their own place will lessen the stress when it’s time to clean up. Do these and you are able to enjoy more family time.

you can choose to believe God’s Word rather than trusting your emotions and praise God in all circumstances. That is exactly what I decided to do. When I discovered that I had been diagnosed with breast cancer, I thanked God for giving me enough insight to listen to the soft spoken word telling me to get checked. When my uncles children had no place to go, I thanked God that I was financially blessed enough to take them all in and care for them. When my husband and I did separate, I trusted God to work it out. As a result, we begin dating each other again and just taking on day at a time. I also thanked God for letting me have a great support system, my family, dear friends and men and women of God, who were sent my way because they were sensitive to the spirit of God, and they heard from God and interceded on my behalf when I was weak.”

To look in the face of adversity, Mrs. Robin Turner-Mullins decided she was going to be like Shadrach, Meshach and Abed-Nego; she waited and trusted on God. She knew it was not for her but for others to see the power of the Holy Ghost working in and through her. She now shares her story and lets everyone know that God had a purpose for her.

She decided that she would WIN no matter how bad things seemed. She decided she would overcome everything that was placed upon her, so she could be living proof that when things are at their worst YOU have the power to get better and change the situation around you. God certainly elevated Mrs. Robin Turner-Mullins to another level!

Stay organized.

Spend some time organizing your house. This will take time but will be well worth it. Give everything its own place and make sure that it makes sense. For example, have hooks near your front door for keys, umbrellas and hats. This way you can hang them as soon as you come in. Hold a family meeting to let everyone know where things belong.

Applying the tips mentioned above will definitely help moms save time and enjoy their family a little bit more.

Being a mom is extremely rewarding, but it’s challenging. Get the help you need at Real Life Guidance. It’s your place for instant downloadable help for moms, day or night. For more information, visit http://greatarticlesformoms.com

Figure out your best bill payment option.

If you have the means, set up bill payment electronically. Writing checks may seem like a simple thing but you can save time writing checks for bills when you pay electronically. If you can’t pay bills electronically, set up a Plan your meals. workstation complete with all the supYou can use a blank monthly or plies you need when paying bills like: weekly calendar to list down your meals your checkbook, envelopes, stamps, for the upcoming week. Once you have pens, and a calendar. If your workstajan. 15 - Feb. 15 2010

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24.

The Rule of 72

By Justina Chen Financial Consultant, CPA Regardless of how much or how little we make, it’s never too early or too late to start a financial plan and turn your financial dreams into realities. Today, let’s talk about the magic Rule of 72.

Albert Einstein said compound interest is the greatest mathematical discovery of all time, not E=mc2. His “RULE of 72” provides us with an easy formula to figure how long it takes to DOUBLE YOUR MONEY! As a rule of thumb, at 10% interest; money will double every 7.2 years.

In today’s economy, if your Bank pays 1.5% interest on your money market account, you’ll wait 48 years to double your money. Do you want to wait that long to turn your $10,000 into

$20,000 and ended up losing big because of inflation and taxes? Of course not!! This shows why Einstein said, “If people really understood the Rule of 72 they would never put their money in banks!” Indeed, banks are probably the worst place to grow your investment for retirement or other purposes.

Your investment can be a stock, a bond, a mutual fund, an annuity and other ways of getting a good return on your money safely and quicker. You can use this method to quickly calculate in your head how long it takes to double your money. You can use it for many purposes such as buying a car, figuring college cost, comparing interest rates, etc.

For example, if you have $10,000 invested in an investment that returns 12%, you divide 12% into 72 = 6 years to double your money; a much better return!

Doubling your money is a VERY important part of wealth accumulation. How many doubles do you have left? If you are 35 years old, with money earning a measly 3% in a bank and doubling only every 24 years, you only have ONE DOUBLE by age 60. If you figure that inflation averages 3-5% you’re not even breaking even. How about fig-

Keep Your Business Alive

By Leslie Logan Contributing Writer In an era where so many companies are going belly up, it’s important that you know what to do to keep your business alive.

Starting your own company is a big challenge, but staying positive could be an even bigger struggle. No matter what kind of business you have, if you are not committed to a “failure is not an option” mindset, you are setting yourself up for failure.

The reality is that only two-thirds of new small businesses survive at least two years, and just 44 percent survive at least four years, according to a study by the U.S. Small Business Association.

To avoid becoming another start-up casualty, the right mental state is crucial. jan. 15 - Feb. 15 2010

So when the bills begin to pile up, and clients or customers are few and far between, don’t be tempted to throw in the towel. Instead, keep your mind and mission on track.

One of the most important elements to starting a successful business is being mentally prepared. Of course, skills, actions and good old-fashioned luck are also important factors, but it all begins with the right frame of mind. That means stay away from people who are negative and may try to bring you down.

People can be negative simply because they are jealous that you had the courage to follow your own dream, not just talk about it.

You’ll also want to visualize your dream. Although there will be many ups and downs, a light does exist at the end of the tunnel, and it is bright. By visualizing success, your actions will become more confident. And increased confidence breeds success.

Entrepreneurs should think about why they started a business in the first place. Perhaps going back to work for someone else is not an option. In that case, just reminding yourself of the alternatives: being at the mercy of others controlling your life, playing corporate www.

uring the income taxes you paid on the 3% growth.

Baby boomers beware. A new government report warns of the deteriorating financial condition of the nation’s two largest social safety nets; i.e. Social Security and Medicare. Thanks to the deepening global economic crisis, these two entitlement time bombs are now set to explode even sooner than originally predicted. Seniors in Medicare Advantage plans can certainly tell the differences of their benefits in 2009 and 2010.

Determine your retirement savings goal and find out if you’re on the track to reach it. For instance, if you’re 35 and your money is growing at 12%, you have SIX DOUBLES by age 60! If you’re 50 and your money is growing at 12%, you have 1.6 DOUBLES LEFT by age 60! What is this really saying?

Start investing as soon as you can!!

Because compound interest is a really marvelous invention, Einstein called it the 8th Wonder.

It can work for you; or against you. When you invest, it works for you.

When you borrow, it works against you. You can become financially secure by winning the lottery. The surer way is to save money, invest it and let it compound!!

Justina Chen can be reached @ 713826-7048 or BestIns4U@gmail.com. politics or reporting to incompetent bosses should be sufficient motivation to keep your mind right.

A large part of the “failure is not an option” mindset is knowing that certain personal or financial sacrifices will need to be made along the way in order to achieve your dream. Entrepreneurs who have made sacrifices and prospered did so because they realized early on that starting and building a great company comes with a price.

Keep in mind that success comes to those who recognize risk, are unafraid of it, and will execute on their ideas. If you are not open to taking risks your chances of business survival will probably be slim.

When times get tough financially, you really have only two choices: decrease your expenses or increase your revenues.

So now you know where you want to go. How do you plan to get there? A roadmap will lead you to success. A business plan, which is a written description of what you are going to do and how you are going to do it, is the entrepreneur’s roadmap. It forces you to think about the entire operation and come to terms with the businesses strengths and weaknesses. Entrepreneurs who do their homework increase their chances for business success.

Weighing In on Weight Loss

With challenges to the body like a slowing metabolism, stress, childbearing and easy access to less than nutritional food, it’s no wonder that so many women struggle with their weight.

Weight can affect your health, which in turn can affect your business.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, being overweight increases your risk for a host of health problems.

The Search for a Solution Millions of dollars are spent each year on diet programs, yet up to 95 percent of dieters fail to maintain weight loss. There is often an initial loss of weight, but then many people hit a plateau and stop losing weight. Another problem with many diets is that people just can’t maintain a diet long-term.

But many of those programs are based on a flawed premise: if you simply eat less and move more, then you’ll be smaller. There’s more to it than that.

Metabolism Matters When calories are restricted, your metabolism drops. When this happens, you hit a plateau and the pounds stop coming off. In order to break through that plateau, most diets call for a further reduction in calories. This lowers the metabolism more, requiring a lifetime of low-calorie dieting to maintain your goal weight.

The Real Key to Weight Loss “The secret is not willpower or self discipline,” says Nadia Rodman, senior dietician for Curves, International, “but rather a proper understanding of how we can change our behavior, or, more specifically, our habits.”

Rodman believes that women can take charge of their health and combat the effects of aging and disease. “We’re about fitness, health, and moving away from disease,” she says. “We’re about losing weight and gaining strength. In a community of support and encouragement, you can reach your goals.”

Celeste has a new vision of herself.

“I’d always be looking around, asking myself, ‘Am I the fattest person in the room?’ This has changed the way I view myself. I’ve always been happy, but now it’s about having fun, not making fun of myself.”

For more about the free Curves Weight Management Plan, visit your local Curves or curves.com.

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Perseverance:

Winning It While In IT!

By Erica King Contributing Writer As an Entrepreneur, I always felt compelled to win it while in it, speaking of my calling to endeavor in Entrepreneurship. I knew early in life I would make a living working for myself. After numerous jobs beginning at the age of 13 years old, I longed for a job just as most teens do. My first job was working for the infamous Frenchy’s Chicken, making minimum wage of $3.35 per hour at their former location on Old Spanish Trail (O.S.T.). I thought it was a grand amount since I was a teen with no living expenses such as rent and utilities. It was great for me back then.

But, after numerous jobs to follow and quitting them for basically no apparent reason, I realized a job was not for me.

However, becoming an Entrepreneur was. Therefore, I started a pager company back in 1997 by the name of Emerica Communications.

Unfortunately, Emerica Communications had to close down due to the rising popularity and affordability of mobile phones. Yes, it ached, but I knew I had to keep going regardless of the pain if I wanted to become an Entrepreneur.

Later, I opened a Day Care by the name of Kids-N-Kare. The day care prices were affordable for parents. I enjoyed the massive response to my flyers. Sadly, I had to suddenly shut down because new management had taken over. Countless times I thought about returning back to the workforce; however, I still felt the calling to endeavor in business entrepreneurship.

Presently, with many blessings, I am the Founder and President of Dynamic KIDS, Inc. 501 (c) (3) IRS recognized non-profit organization established in 2005. Our mission is to provide underprivileged children from low- income families school uniforms, clothing, and school supplies. Dynamic KIDS, Inc. is a participant of Local Independent Charities. As funds allow us, we try to ensure these children are dressed properly according to their school’s dress codes.

In addition, my passion for hair care and styling including fashion image consulting has led to the launching of Beauty Fanatics, LLC. Beauty Fanatjan. 15 - Feb. 15 2010

ics takes great interest in the appearances of today’s woman and teens by incorporating salon services along with fashion trend retailing, which is scheduled to premiere its designer showroom purchased fashions for women and teens online. Also, Beauty Fanatics is a volunteering member of the American Cancer Society’s Look Good…Feel Better program, which assists cancer stricken women with make-up application, wigs, and scarf styling at cancer treatment facilities. A portion of Beauty Fanatics, LLC profits are donated to Dynamic KIDS, Inc. Winning it while in it (entrepreneurship), involves commitment.

Marriage to your business makes it withstand hardships. Make a vow to persevere regardless of what obstacles you may face; rather it is finances, less demand for your product, or services.

Similar to marriage, couples are quick to divorce over financial crisis before seeking counseling.

Unfortunately, the same thing often applies in business; therefore, seek a Business Counselor if you are in a business crisis before divorcing your business.

Perseverance has made me realize I was already winning it while in it because I remained in entrepreneurship.

Although entrepreneurship is no game, there is one golden rule to follow and I have learned that rule is perseverance.

Perseverance is the catalyst to a successful business. But first, there must be a passion for what you do, or most likely you may begin to feel as though you are on a regular job. Again, behind each business endeavor there must be a passion, which will then lead to perseverance then to a successful business.

“Life is a gamble, you never know if you will win if you don’t rollout the dice.”

- Erica Lola King, Author

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Dr. Sherri Sanifer Makes Our Spirits Soar

By Craig Anthony Nicholas, Contributing Writer

Sherri Sandifer We all like to revisit our childhood at times. Sherri Sandifer is a pediatrician who not only cares for children but remembers wanting to play piano “ever since I could sit on the piano bench unassisted.” Sherri is so thrilled to be going for more as she is now working on her R&B/soul album to release this spring.

Her December jazz debut at J. Durham Steakhouse was delivered with bold charm to her audience.

“Playing with saxophonist, Perry Richard, in my debut was a real treat.

It’s always been a dream of mine to perform some jazz/R&B/original compositions in an intimate venue like we did.

When the opportunity arose, we went for it,” Sherri said.

Since her debut, Sherri played with such heartfelt joy at the sacred fellowship of St. Matthew Lutheran in Houston’s Museum District that it makes our spirits soar. Those that appreciate connecting with beauty, education, talent and character will identify with what her family, friends, and supporters have been raving about among social networks.

Sherri was raised in a musical family where music was always in the house.

Her mother sang in the church choir and since her dad played jazz piano only by ear, her mother wanted to make sure that she would be able to play any piece of music, with anyone, anytime.

Sherri can play by ear, but was classically trained in piano and flute and says it has been a tremendous asset. Sherri Sandifer started singing in college, and

has been writing songs for as long as she can remember.

Some of those Sherri sang with in an acapella group at Yale called Shades have gone on to perform on Broadway. Another later won the Tony for best musical. Sherri is now working on her album with Dru Castro, who has recorded with Usher, Fergie of the Black Eyed Peas, Keyshia Cole, and Keri Hilson.

Sherri says, “It’s great to be in the company of such accomplished musicians,” as she describes the instrumentalists on her upcoming album who have worked among artists as Mary J. Blige and India Arie. Musical influences include Stevie Wonder, Donny Hathaway, Chaka Khan, and india.arie. “I strive to perform songs that have lyrical substance, that resonate with people’s experiences, and that are memorable,” she said.

Her most challenging days were when her mother, her biggest supporter and best friend, died a few years ago.

“Having made it through that, I feel like I can do anything now. My mother was my greatest influence in life. There has never been a stronger, sweeter, or more loving person. She always encouraged my musical endeavors but made it clear that I needed to get my education first. I think she’d be proud of how things have turned out.”

Balancing music and medicine has not come easy, but she says working on the album has actually made her a happier pediatrician. So it’s a win-win.

Music had always been such an important part of her life but was not nurtured for a long time. Then the music just started to flow when she found herself at the end of a relationship. That’s when she decided to do this album.

Sherri says, “Each time I’m in the studio I grow a little, learn something new about my voice. Songs I have written in the past few months are more evolved. Nine out of the eleven songs on the album were actually written in the past two months, so it’s all really fresh.”

Sherri Sandifer holds open the option to do another album later with some jazz standards she loves, but her upcoming album will feature all original works that are all quite autobiographical and that she hopes will become timeless R&B/soul classics.

26.

Black Women are Straightening it Out!

By Dr. D. L. Jones, Contributing Writer

H

ow many African-American women can remember the days of the hot comb?

In the home I grew up in, it was better known as the “straightening comb.” That metal wide tooth comb that momma would heat up on the stove just hot enough to press through my sister’s hair until it was straight and laying flat on her head. Wherever you were in the house you could smell it when momma had that straightening comb working through my little sister’s hair.

Today, we live in a world of weaves, lace wigs and extensions but let’s not forget how one black woman by the name of Madam C. J. Walker helped revolutionize how black women adorned their hair with the help of the infamous

straightening-comb. Today, we don’t hear that much about the straighteningcomb but like Madam C. J. Walker, today’s black women are yet straightening out new paths in entrepreneurial success.

Born to sharecroppers who were formerly slaves, Madam C. J. Walker was orphaned at the age of six and began working in the cotton fields at an early age. Nevertheless, she didn’t let hardship and life’s situations block her from pursuing her dreams. Furthermore, it was literally a dream coupled with hard work that catapulted her to great success.

Madam C. J. Walker had a dream about a product that black women could use to make their hair grow. She came up with a product called “The Wonderful Hair Grower,” however; this scalp ointment alone did little for black women’s hair. The magic came when she coupled her hair and scalp ointment with what is commonly known as the straightening-comb. Not only did it give black women a softer, shinier and more relaxed hair, it also added length to their hair.

Just think about the power of a dream. Madam C. J. Walker had a dream and turned it into a reality. That dream went on to become a business empire of hair care products that landed her the claim to fame as the first black woman millionaire in the United States.

Madam C. J. Walker’s straightening-comb transformed black women’s

Whose Life is it

unless I had “credentials” behind my name. Tisk, tisk on her…for she knew nothing of my rebellious ways – tell me I can’t, and I will! My determination in life is for the sheer desire to prove I have what it takes to be successful by my standards. And as a mother of three beautiful girls, I am determined to leave them a legacy based on hard work, integrity and fortitude – using tools I call God given talent and wits earned from the Hard Knocks School of Life.

Yes I am In It To Win It! Now at the age of 30, I am relentlessly working on my passions as a business owner, mother, wife and philanthropist. A lot to juggle, but each “ball” carefully forms the tapestry of my life. I am President and CEO of JaylaCom Solutions, LLC, a consulting liaison firm that offers an array of services and programs for businesses and community development. JCS Creative is a subsidiary of JaylaCom Solutions, offering market-

Anyway?

By April Khaliq, Contributing Writer What is the real price of Education? Is it $100,000 plus per year for an Ivy League University or is it losing your home, failing in business, a failing relationship, or drowning in ridiculous debt? Sometimes, some people pay double while others get off a bit cheaper.

Either way, you’ll pay! The real education in life is that which is unique to you and on course with your very divine destiny. This education is in fact, priceless! All my life, I’ve chosen to do things my way. Non conformity has always been my way of challenging myself in life to over achieve and make something of myself according to my own terms.

After-all, whose life is it anyway?

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coarse hair into something soft, subtle and easy to manage.

Like Madam C. J. Walker, there are millions of talented black women in America with a dream to go into business and do something big that will help the masses. Metaphorically, what Madam Walker did to coarse hair using the straightening-comb, many black women can do with the coarse obstacles and challenges that impede their dreams: with hard work and determination, they can straighten them out!

Madam C. J. Walker died from a stroke in 1919 but the straighteningcomb lives on both physically and spiritually. Over a hundred years after Madam C. J. Walker invented the straightening-comb one can find its use in southern hair salons and urban homes. The spiritual benefits can be seen as well.

Black women today are yet straightening out rough paths, plowing their way to success. Though James Brown sang, “It’s a Man’s World” he went on to say ‘it wouldn’t be nothing with-

out a woman or a girl.’ Black women have and will continue to be a pillar of strength and power in America.

Madam C. J. Walker wasn’t born with a silver spoon in her mouth. She was the daughter of sharecroppers who were sons and daughters of slaves. But one day she had a dream about a hair ointment and a straightening-comb that revolutionized black hair care.

Young black woman, what is your dream? What are the obstacles that are blocking your dream? Whatever the obstacles, never give up on your dream.

It can be as simple yet innovative as a straightening-comb or as medically ingenious as the cure for AIDS, but never give up on it.

As black women are challenged with hurdles seen and unseen, they must never give up on their dreams.

Where there are dreams there are obstacles. But when obstacles come to frustrate your dreams just remember Madam C. J. Walker. How did she solve her problem? She just straightened it out!

ing and visual design solutions. These services include logo, print, and website designs to name a few. JCS Creative stays away from cookie cutter designs and offers a fresh alternative to unique corporate identity. Additionally, we have developed a Community Based program called Cap (Community Affiliate Program) that advocates for social responsibility and community involvement from small businesses. Cap offers a platform for small businesses to make a real difference in their communities on a local level. By investing time, energy and resources in their communities, they in turn invest in their business through positive brand exposure. I am working on devloping a network group called GGG (Get- up and Go Girls), for young girls in low economic and underserved communities, encouraging young girls to never give up. Inspired by my daughters, Jayla, Iniya and Bailee, the original Get-up and Go Girls, GGG aspires to give girls an outlet for discussing their challenges and insecurities through a social network site dedicated

to them alone. It’s really exciting! Too much? I’m not sure…not enough in my opinion. I think we don’t do enough and our work is never done.

My drive has evolved/matured as now I work to accomplish so much to fulfill so many aspects of my life. No longer am I only looking to prove a point, but now I have found true purpose in my life and look forward to what every day brings.

I am In It To Win It because I love progress, thus will never stop, as progress is a continuous working effort. And education in its purest most natural form is never ending. I have too much to offer, too much to do, and can’t afford to not keep going. Winning is never quitting and I never quit!

I challenge all mothers, women, and aspiring entrepreneurs, to keep going, push through and stay in it to win it. Find purpose and the journey becomes much more rewarding. Despite all obstacles, naysayers and fear; have faith and make it happen!

27.

Educator On A Mission!

Wykesha C. Hayes

Being fueled with a passion and purpose is a blessing that Wykesha Hayes doesn’t take lightly. She is undeniably one of the most electrifying and driven educators of this generation. Ignited with an intense passion to change the face of education for all students, specifically those within urban communities, Wykesha is dedicated to building an educational empire right in the heart of Houston, Texas.

Her journey was destined from an early age. Serving in leadership capacities throughout her entire high school career, she went on to attend the University of Houston on a track scholarship. Athletics empowered her with a spirit of tenacity, work-ethic and dedication that she fearlessly applies in her position as a business owner, educator and motivational speaker.

Intern work at the Nehemiah Neighborhood Center sparked a vision and confirmed the path that Wykesha would follow. As a young teacher she knew early on that her position in the public classroom was only temporary.

She wanted to make a larger impact, because she dreamed of cultivating communities by empowering youth and their families to become educationally focused and economically enriched.

In 2003, the vision of Keey 2 Kids was born. The approach to spearheading this vision was unconventional but worked. In order to earning the flexibility needed to pursue her dream, Wykesha knew she needed to find consistent income. She found this opportunity in Mary Kay. Six months after signing her agreement, Wykesha had doubled her teaching income, earned a car and debuted a Fabulous 50’s unit of over 100 women. In May 2005 she stepped out on faith with a clear plan. She opted to use Mary Kay as a vehicle to her ultimate goal…And it worked.

By day, Wykesha strategized her approach for launching Keey 2 Kids and by night she taught other women jan. 15 - Feb. 15 2010

how to build their own business and earn extra cash. It was a perfect fit and she capitalized on the business lessons learned in Mary Kay by implementing some of those same strategies in Keey 2 Kids. That June, Wykesha secured the first contract for Keey 2 Kids and the rest is history. This December, the Keey 2 Kids Empire is celebrating the opening of its first Keey Educational Center.

Wykesha’s message of education and empowering youth has impacted the lives of thousands of Houston and Texas area families. Her ability to transcend cultures, ethnic and economic boundaries is evident in her diverse clientele. She is sought after as a reliable source of knowledge due to her willingness to lead by example. Self-driven, she is currently a Doctoral Student at Texas A&M University pursuing a Ph.D in Urban Education. “Leading by example is crucial, it validates your message,” says Wykesha Hayes, M.Ed. One of her most rewarding efforts is her work as an educational advocate for students with special and medical needs.

This past year, she served as co-chair for the annual University of Texas MD Anderson Pediatric Educational Conference and was named 2010 chair for next years’ conference.

When asked, “How do you find time to do it all?” she simply answers, “How could I not?” It is clear that Wykeshas’ success is a combination of her willingness to take risks and her sincere desire to change lives.

This barely thirty-something young women is definitely one of Houston’s future business leaders. She offers this advice to other young women pursuing their business passion 1.) Become a visionary and steward of your trade 2.)

Brand yourself as the expert 3.) Use every opportunity as a platform to share your message and passion 4.) Build a team just as driven, knowledgeable and passionate as you and 5.) Master the art of time management and goal setting.

“These nuggets have turned my sketched ideas from the sheets of notebook paper into reality,” says Wykesha and “I’m excited, because the best is yet to come!”

Let us Promote your Business, Your Event, or You! Advertise today in D-MARS Business Journal

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tionwide, 87.9 percent are women. Approximately 90 percent of direct sellers operate their businesses part-time, leaving them more time for family and themselves.

From recent college graduates to stay-at-home moms, working professionals to retirees looking for something more satisfying, women are finding that with a career in direct sales, they can design the life they’ve always wanted.

If you ask most women to write their ideal job description, consistent raises, more family time and more “me time” would be essential.

These three essentials are at the top of working women’s wish lists, according to the 2008 Ask A Working Woman Survey, an annual online survey conducted by Working America.

The 20,000 survey respondents echoed what so many more working women are feeling these days. They want more time with their families, but can’t afford it. They want some time to themselves, but can’t get it. In fact, 72 percent of the working mothers surveyed said they had less than an hour to themselves a day.

These are some of the very reasons that millions of women have turned away from traditional nine-to-five office jobs and have found exactly what they’re looking for in the home-based business of direct sales.

Direct selling is simply person-toperson selling, without the middle man of a retail store. Most often it’s done through fun and casual home parties where people gather to eat, talk and shop together.

At a time when the U.S. economy is in recession, the stock market is down, unemployment is on the rise, consumer confidence is low and legendary retailers are closing their doors, the direct sales industry is strong. With stable, proven and growing companies, direct sales offers an opportunity to earn significant income quickly with minimal investment and risk, and more personal and family time.

More and more women have found the direct sales industry to be an attractive career option. In 2007, U.S. direct sales exceeded $30.8 billion. Of the more than 15 million direct sellers najan. 15 - Feb. 15 2010

had a positive impact on their families,” Kelly said.

To find out more about Silpada or to learn about becoming a representative, visit www.silpada.com.

Tips for choosing the right direct sales company for you.

It’s important to take your time evaluating any direct sales company you consider joining. Bonnie and Teresa offer these tips to help you find the company that is right for you.

Passion for the Product.

Join a company that you feel confident sharing their product. How do they ensure high quality and uniqueness? Does the product have a lifetime Success Story In 1997, Bonnie Kel- guarantee? The more passion and conly and Teresa Walsh were fidence you have in your product, the two stay-at-home moms easier it is to sell. looking for a way to earn Initial Investment.

Evaluate the cost of beginning your extra money without sacrificing personal and own business, how quickly you can exfamily time. They started pect to recoup your initial investment, Silpada Designs, a direct and what the company offers to consales company specializ- tinue to support you as your business ing in handcrafted sterling silver jewelry. grows. Ask what incentives they have in Today, Silpada is the largest di- place for new representatives to support rect seller, and one of the top retailers, them in the beginning of their business.

At Silpada, for example, representaof sterling silver jewelry in the United States. In 2008, the company exceeded tives do not carry inventory. Their ini$265 million in retail sales. Its more tial investment is for their jewelry that than 27,000 U.S. representatives had they can wear and display at their home more than 275,000 home parties, dis- parties. On average, representatives tributing more than eight million pieces of jewelry.

Kelly and Walsh turned a passion for jewelry into a business that provided financial freedom, flexibility and, most importantly, a way to infuse some fun into every day — a goal for any woman trying to juggle work and home life while maintaining her own sense of self.

“It’s all about empowering women with a wonderful business opportunity and creating lifelong friendships,” Kelly said. “Silpada means ‘the best of everything,’ and that’s what we really try to focus on. It’s more than jewelry, it’s more than a job. It’s a lifestyle.”

Walsh adds, “We believe that success doesn’t come from the degrees you have or the initial investment you make, but from a passion to design the life you want. You can make your goals and dreams as big as you want them to be or as simple as you need them to be. With a company like Silpada, if you want a little time away or dream of redecorating your house or need to take on your family’s expenses, you can.”

Kelly and Walsh want to encourage women of all ages to take charge of their lives and consider a home-based business. “It’s a way to achieve financial freedom, increase self-confidence, and maintain a work-life balance that blends with any lifestyle,” Walsh says.

“We are inspired on a daily basis by our representatives’ emotional stories about how owning their own business and having control of their income has www.

make up their initial business investment within the first four to six home parties.

Fair and Competitive Compensation.

Ask questions regarding the direct profit, override commissions and pay structure of the company’s compensation plan. It’s important to feel confident that the company you choose has a fair and competitive compensation plan and that you can continue to increase your earnings as your grow your business.

Great Customer Service.

Your customers are your current and future business, so it is important that the company you choose is customer focused. Make sure to ask questions such as: What does the company do to support its customers? Do customers have to pay for their returns? The better your customers are taken care of the better your business will be.

Training and Support.

Ensure that the company you join is dedicated to helping you achieve the success you are looking for. What type of training do they offer? How will they support your business? Is there a cost involved? What types of training events are company sponsored?

Join a company that you feel confident sharing their product. Bonnie Kelly and Teresa Walsh, founders of Silpada Designs.

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Mrs. Hazel Lowe - “A Big Heart”

Founder and President of All Faces Educational Foundation

By Heather Haukaas, Contributing Writer

Mrs. Hazel Lowe Mrs. Hazel Lowe exemplifies how one can come from humble circumstances and still do extraordinary things.

Inspired by the teachings of her beloved husband and guided by her faith, Lowe has continuously fought to help those in need. After her husband, Mr. Clifton Leonard Lowe, passed away she vowed that her life and life’s work would be

dedicated to lending a helping hand to anyone needing it, regardless of race.

This vow is what led her to found “All F.A.C.E.S Educational Foundation in 2004. All Faces Educational Foundation (AFEF) is a national and international program that focuses on providing Food, Assistance, Clothing, Education, and Scholarships to all races. In addition, the ministry provides counseling in several areas such as health, employment, shelter, and spiritual guidance.

A native of Bivins, Texas, a small town thirty-three miles south east of Texarkana, Texas, Mrs. Lowe was born to Tommy and Lizzie Anna English Spearman. Pursing her education, she moved to Houston, Texas in 1951. After moving to Houston, Mrs. Lowe met the greatest gift God gave her, her husband Mr. Clifton Leonard Lowe. They were married in 1960 and gave birth to one son, Mark Christopher Lowe.

The responsibilities of being a wife and mother only inspired Mrs. Lowe to give more and learn more. She owned several businesses, obtained her bachelors in accounting from Texas Southern University, and worked in the field of accounting for over thirty years. Determined to

constant self-improvement, she further developed her spirituality by enrollment in the Southern Bible College in Houston, Texas and Union Theological Seminary. She is currently a honor roll student working on her master’s in Christian Counseling.

Today, Mrs. Lowe constantly worships and works in the Kingdom of God. She is a proud member of North Side Missionary Baptist Church. Mrs. Lowe always had a passion for helping those in need. Her life mission is to help meet the needs of all faces of every race. As All Faces Educational Foundation grows, Mrs. Lowe’s dream is to visit Africa, Haiti, England, and Russia to complete this mission. Her inspiration to create the foundation was not only inspired by her husband but also by God. Mrs. Lowe says, “I do this because of the love and compassion that God has placed deep in my heart for all people. Jesus is our perfect example, we as Christians must strive to be like him. And in meeting their spiritual and physical needs then, I have fulfilled the Great mission. He said to “GO” Matthew 28:19-20.” Mrs. Lowe

The ABCs of Retirement Planning come, a home or a financial legacy for your family. Think about what kind of retirement lifestyle you want; write down your specific goals.

Do I know how much I’ll need in order to achieve those goals? According to the EBRI: • 42 percent of all workers think they need to accumulate at least $500,000 by the time they retire to live comfortably in retirement.

• 19 percent feel they need between $250,000 and $499,999, while 28 percent think they need to save less than $250,000 for a comfortable retirement.

• Workers who have performed a retirement needs calculation are twice as likely than those who have not to expect they will need to accumulate at least $1 million before retirement.

B: Be mindful of your risk tolerance.

Every investment strategy has a level of risk. Generally speaking, the higher the risk of losing money, the higher the expected return. Less risk translates into a smaller return. The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) recommends that you look at these factors to help you determine your risk tolerance: Financial goals — how much you want to accumulate.

Current financial position — can The Basics you afford to invest in riskier options right now? Take less risk if you cannot A: Ask yourself these questions.

Where do I want to be, financially? afford to lose your investment or have Goals can include secure retirement in- its value fall.

Are you financially ready for retirement? If you’re feeling concerned about your standard of living after retirement, you’re not alone. Only 13 percent of workers say they are confident about having enough money for a comfortable retirement, according to the 2009 Retirement Confidence Survey conducted by the Employee Benefit Research Institute (EBRI).

Yet only 44 percent have taken the time and effort to complete a retirement needs calculation, the basic planning step for determining how much money they are likely to need and how much they need to save to meet that goal.

Why is that? “It can be an overwhelming process, and people often don’t know how to start,” says Jim Johnson, vice president of Advanced Markets for Allianz Life. “And especially in the current economy, many people may feel they just can’t afford to set aside any more income.”

But, no matter what your age, it’s important to take the time to look beyond today’s uncertainty in order to build a sound financial future for yourself and your family. Whether you make plans on your own or choose to work with a financial planner, it’s time to start by following these ABCs.

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is a great example of dedication and determination. Thus, keep your dreams alive and keep working with patience and acknowledge God in all things and he will direct your path.

If one were to ask me to define a “Woman in it to Win It” or a woman that I would have no problem emulating, I would say Mrs. Hazel Lowe. She uses her resources abundantly to help other’s win every day! She is a mother, a wife, an entrepreneur and above all else she unselfishly devotes herself to the improvement of others. Whether Mrs. Hazel Lowe is digging water wells in Africa, purchasing thousands of pounds of food to feed the hungry, taking children off the streets into her home, clothing the unclothed, or educating the uneducated she is definitely an extraordinary woman who is in it to WIN it.

to take advantage of retirement contributions that get fully matched by your company.

Another option is an annuity. There are generally two types of annuities, fixed and variable. With a fixed annuity, the insurance company guarantees a minimum rate of interest during the time your annuity is accumulating. You are also guaranteed the option for periodic payments over either a definite period of time (such as 20 years) or indefinite, such as your lifetime.

Both fixed and variable annuities have two phases, one in which they help build your assets and another in which they help turn those assets into a stream of income. Clients assume the risk with a variable annuity, whereas a fixed annuity is guaranteed.

“With variable annuities, you have the chance to buy additional protection benefits that offer more guarantees,” said Johnson. “In very basic terms, optional riders for income, accumulation and death benefits, guarantee a certain amount of payment for an additional fee, regardless of the current value of your initial investment.”

The Bottom Line. You owe it to yourself and to your family to plan for your future. “Financial planning is a long-term commitment — a marathon that will evolve over time. So it’s never too early to start and it’s not as hard as you might think,” said Johnson. A professional financial planner can help you work through the ABCs and get you on your way to a more secure retirement.

Time horizon — how long can you leave your money invested? If you will need your money in one year, consider taking less risk than if you won’t need it for 20 years.

C: Choose an investment strategy.

Once you understand your goals and level of risk tolerance, choose a strategy to achieve those targets. There are three basic strategies involved in investing: protecting your money, earning income and growing more money. The best strategy is a balanced combination of the three.

Protection. If you’ve saved enough for a house or car and you want to be sure the money will be there when you need it, a savings account or money market securities will keep that money safe.

Income. If you want a predictable stream of income, investing in bonds or bond mutual funds provide income from the interest payments.

Growth. Investing in companies through stock mutual funds can help grow your money, but this depends on the stock performance, and is usually considered a long-term option.

“Finding the right balance is key to reaching your financial goals,” said Johnson. “A financial professional can help you find a balance that allows you to accumulate enough assets to retire the way you want and have enough income to maintain a comfortable lifestyle.”

Johnson says that one simple way to help maximize retirement funding is -Family Features

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Healthy Living Part 1 tion for your exercise program.

• Think about joining a health club.

The cost gives some people an incentive to exercise regularly.

Tips for starting and sticking to an exercise program:

Dr. Olufunke Odetunde

C

ongratulations on making it into the year 2010. Here is wishing you a healthy New Year.

As we start a new year our focus should be on staying healthy. This article will provide an overview on strategies for staying healthy. Despite the busyness associated with living in the 21st century, there has to be a concerted effort to set time aside to care for oneself. An individual whether a man or a woman who feels good physically has a better chance of feeling better emotionally, spiritually and intellectually.

According to the World Health Organization health was defined as being “a state of complete physical, mental, emotional and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity”.

Effective strategies for staying healthy and improving one’s health include the following elements; a) Social Activity b) Physical Activity c) Healthy Eating d) Stress management e) Healthcare

much exercise is right for you. Talk with your doctor before starting a new exercise program. A good goal for many people is to work up to exercising 4 to 6 times a week for 30 to 60 minutes at a time. Remember, though, that exercise has so many health benefits that any amount is better than none.

Benefits of regular exercise include:

• Choose something you like to do.

Make sure it suits you physically, too.

For instance, swimming is easier on arthritic joints.

• Get a partner. Exercising with a friend or relative can make it more fun.

• Vary your routine. You may be less likely to get bored or injured if you change your exercise routine. Walk one day. Bicycle the next. Consider activities like dancing and racquet sports, and even chores like vacuuming or mowing the lawn.

• Choose a comfortable time of day.

Don’t work out too soon after eating or when it’s too hot or cold outside.

Wait until later in the day if you’re too stiff in the morning.

• Don’t get discouraged. It can take weeks or months before you notice some of the changes from exercise, such as weight loss.

• Forget “no pain, no gain.” While a little soreness is normal after you first start exercising, pain isn’t. Take a break if you hurt or if you are injured.

• Make exercise fun. Read, listen to music or watch TV while riding a stationary bicycle, for example. Find fun things to do, like taking a walk through the zoo. Go dancing. Learn how to play a sport you enjoy, such as tennis.

• Reduces your risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, osteoporosis, diabetes and obesity.

• Keeps joints, tendons and ligaments flexible, which makes it easier to move around • Reduces some of the effects of aging • Contributes to your mental well-being and helps treat depression , • Helps relieve stress and anxiety, • Increases your energy and endurance, 3. Healthy Eating: • Helps you sleep better , Paying attention to what you eat • Helps you maintain a normal weight by increasing your metabolism (the and choosing foods that are both nourishing and enjoyable helps support an rate you burn calories) overall healthy diet. Healthy eating is a Get started; incorporate exercise into function of what you eat and how much your daily routine. you eat.

Here are some tips for how to • Take the stairs instead of the elevator. choose foods that improve your health • Go for a walk during your coffee and avoid foods that raise your risk for 1. Social Activity: break or lunch.

Personal health depends partially • Avoid the closet parking spot at the illnesses while creating a diet plan that works for you. on the social structure of one’s life. The mall or grocery store. maintenance of strong social relation- • Walk all or part of the way to work.

• Eat enough calories but not too ships is linked to good health condi- • Do housework at a fast pace. many. Don’t eat more food than your tions, longevity, productivity, and a • Rake leaves or do other yard work. body uses. The average recommended positive attitude. This is due to the fact daily allowance is 2,000 calories, but that positive social interaction is shown Make exercise a habit. this depends on your age, sex, height, to increase many chemical levels in the • Stick to a regular time every day. weight, and physical activity. brain which are linked to personality • Sign a contract committing yourself • Eat a wide variety of foods. Try foods and intelligence traits. to exercise. you don’t normally eat, especially veg• Put “exercise appointments” on your etables, whole grains, or fruits.

2. Physical activity. calendar.

• Keep portions moderate, especially Physical exercise is any bodily activ- • Keep a daily log or diary of your exerhigh-calorie foods. ity that enhances or maintains physical cise activities.

• Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, fitness and overall health.

• Check your progress. grains, and legumes—foods high Talk to your doctor about how • Ask your doctor to write a prescripin complex carbohydrates, fiber, vijan. 15 - Feb. 15 2010

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tamins, and minerals, low in fat, and free of cholesterol.

• Drink more water. Our bodies are about 75% water. It is a vital part of a healthy diet. Water helps flush our systems, especially the kidneys and bladder, of waste products and toxins.

Drink at least 32 oz of water unless fluid restriction is ordered by your healthcare provider.

• Limit sugary foods, salt, and refined-grain products. Sugar is added to a vast array of foods. In a year, just one daily 12-ounce can of soda (160 calories) can increase your weight by 16 pounds.

• Don’t be the food police. You can enjoy your favorite sweets and fried foods in moderation, as long as they are an occasional part of your overall healthy diet.

• Get moving. A healthy diet improves your energy and feelings of well-being while reducing your risk of many diseases. Adding regular physical activity and exercise will make any healthy eating plan work even better.

• One step at a time. Establishing new food habits is much easier if you focus on and take action on one food group or food fact at a time • Take time to chew your food: Chew your food slowly, savoring every bite.

• Avoid stress while eating: When we are stressed, our digestion can be compromised, causing problems like colitis and heartburn. Avoid eating while working, driving, arguing, or watching TV (especially disturbing programs or the news). Try taking some deep breaths prior to beginning your meal, or light candles and play soothing music to create a relaxing atmosphere.

• Listen to your body: Ask yourself if you are really hungry. You may really be thirsty, so try drinking a glass of water first. During a meal, stop eating before you feel full, eat slowly. Eat just enough to satisfy your hunger.

• Eat early, eat often: Start your day with a healthy breakfast to jumpstart your metabolism, eat majority of your daily caloric allotment early in the day to give your body time to work those calories off, eating small, healthy meals throughout the day, rather than the standard three large meals.

To be continued, Part 2 will focus on Stress management and Healthcare------------!!!!!!!

To subscribe to e-newsletters from Olufunke Odetunde MD visit www. odetundemd.com.

Olufunke Odetunde MD, FAAFP Board Certified Family Medicine 2626 South Loop West, Suite # 310 Houston, Texas 77054 Ph. (713) 796.9500 www.odetundemd.com 36.

The Oprah Plan For Success

Rachel R. Wilson Contributing Writer Oprah Winfrey, Queen of Media, only female African-American billionaire, one of the Obama’s pals, or icon as she is also known, is undoubtedly one of the most influential, successful people in America. She just happens to be a woman but has surpassed many expectations of success for anyone – male or female.

Many of us have watched her career explode for more than 20 years. Whether you are a fan or not, it is hard to deny Ms. Winfrey’s keen ability to excel in just about everything she does. I am a fan and have closely observed her over time. There are a few key traits I have concluded Oprah possesses that play a very significant role in her success.

Those are: transparency, the incredible ability to connect with people, a solid work ethic and vision.

My grandmother has said several times that “people cannot tell on Oprah because she tells on herself ”. Oprah has indeed “told on herself ” so to speak by being very transparent about her personal and professional life. She has told us about her being molested as a child, her promiscuity as a teen, her stalkerlike behavior with men as a younger woman, the troubled relationship with her mother, her decades-long struggle with weight, what she was thinking during major interviews and how she feels about marriage. Whew, that’s a lot! I do not know of another celebrity we know more about by their own admission than Oprah Winfrey. You may be thinking TMI! For many, all this may indeed be too much information to share about one’s self. Still, being this transparent, or even close to this, can be empowering and cleansing. It also leverages empathy big time. It helps people trust the person more who is being transparent.

This is why many people feel as if they know Oprah so well. Not just because they invite her into their homes every day, but because she has experienced a number of the same things, i.e. adversity, disappointment, family dysfunction that they have. With knowing someone well – or even the perception of such – comes understanding. With underjan. 15 - Feb. 15 2010

standing, comes trust. Need I say more?

I think it is safe to say Oprah connects well with people. After all, she reaches some 44 million people each week. Her magazine, O, was credited in 2002 by Fortune as being the most successful start-up in the industry. Circulation is over two million which has actually declined a bit since 2006. Oprah. com averages 70 million page views per month. Yes, I said each MONTH, not year. Whether you are in sales, whether you are a leader, whether you run a business or all of the above, you will have an advantage if you can connect with people. Oprah seems to understand human psychology (often a skill in journalists).

She knows how to get what she wants from people while giving them what they want, or often more importantly, what they need. When people feel comfortable with you, magic can happen.

They will often tell you more, give you more, and help you more than expected.

Connecting with people also generates loyalty – something that is invaluable.

Whether it is utilizing that personal touch, determining what makes people tick, or making someone laugh (which may lead to them associating you with joy and positivity), master connecting – in a very relevant, lasting way – with those around you. It may require more effort in your professional relationships but it is worth it. Oprah is proof of this.

Oprah is a lot of things but lazy or lackadaisical is not one of them. Her work ethic is undeniable. During the 23 years she has hosted her award-winning talk show, Oprah has also acted in several movies including The Color Purple for which she was nominated an Oscar.

Through her company Harpo Productions, she has produced several movies such as Beloved and Their Eyes Were Watching God. She launched what is arguably the largest book club in the country. I have already addressed the incredibly successful O Magazine for which she writes a monthly column and is very involved. Ms. Winfrey taught a course on leadership at Northwestern University back in 1999. More recently she partnered with XM Satellite Radio to establish Oprah Radio which in addition to Oprah herself, features popular personalities like Dr. Phil, Dr. Mehmet Oz and Nate Berkus.

Oprah is able to work so hard and juggle so many projects because she is so passionate about what she does. All of it helps fulfill her mission of empowering people, particularly women, and helping them live better lives. What makes hard work less hard (or less work) is a love for what you do and/or a strong sense of purpose. Giving 100, and sometimes 125% is necessary for excellence. Working average typically generates average results. If stepping out of the ordinary www.

into the extraordinary is on your To Do List, find your purpose, roll up your sleeves and prepare to work hard.

There is a passage in the bible that says “Without vision the people perish”. It is often repeated, tossed around as a cliché and occasionally misquoted. However it is also true. Vision is a driving factor in achieving success. Envisioning herself beyond where she was as a child in a small Mississippi town, poor and dealing with segregation was the beginning of the super-sized life Oprah has been able to create for herself. Oprah has said on several occasions that she always knew she was destined to do and be more than her humble beginnings suggested. Something that Oprah loved about reading was it allowed her to escape mentally and dream. That fed her vision. She has continued to be a visionary, talking about her need to be “connected to something bigger than myself ”. Oprah believes the only limitations we have are those we impose on ourselves. I would add to that the limi-

tations we allow others to impose on us.

Successful people are driven by and at times obsessed with their vision – one bigger than themselves.

There are different paths to success but Oprah has provided us a great compass. Although her target audience is women, everyone can learn from her, particularly in terms of professional development. It is not enough to move forward; we need to move forward strategically and effectively. If you do not already possess them, adopt Oprah’s strengths: transparency, the ability to connect with people, a solid work ethic, and vision. It does not sound like much given the limitless possibilities, and your weaknesses… What weaknesses?

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