d-mars.com Business Journal 49

Inspire, Inform & Educate

march 2011

49

Edition

Being a Part of

INSIDE

Generation NOW Christopher Kirksey accepts post d-mars.com new COO has deep industry roots and is prepared to lead d-mars. com into the 21st century arena of communications.

PAGE 8

Marriage and Money

By Charles Swindell Use the Power of Saving to Fund a Blissful Future.

PAGE 17

MR. D-MARS & ??????????

Attorney Taft L. Foley II & MR. D-MARS

“Every generation needs regeneration�

- Charles H. Spurgeon

Breaking Up - Kids and Divorce

By D. Ivan Young Minimizing Negative Effects on Your Children.

PAGE 42

J. Goodwille Pierre Government Procurement Connections

Alissa Jones Nations Reliable Lending

Calling Old - School Mentors to Get Involved Now!

By Dr. D.L. Jones The need to understand differences is especially apparent in the ongoing conflict between the former generations and Generation X. PAGE 44

Houston Black Leadership Forum

See pg. 7

2011 African American Legislative Summit

See pg. 8 - 10

march 2011

www.

2.

Publisher’s Message

Keith J. Davis, Sr. SR. PUBLISHER Keith J. Davis, Sr. VICE PRESIDENT Kevin Davis JR. PUBLISHER Keith J. Davis, Jr. EDITOR-IN-CHIEF DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS Christopher P. Kirksey EDITING CONSULTANT ReShonda Tate-Billingsley ACCOUNTING MANAGER Eugenie Doualla SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Mike Jones C.T. Foster PHOTOGRAPHY Grady Carter MARKETING CONSULTANT Johnny Ray Davis, Jr. MULTIMEDIA DIRECTOR Andrea Hennekes

Each generation has their spectrum of technological advances that they keep up with.

Each generation also has a ceiling that once hit, stops their advancement or picking up of any new concepts or ideas. If you were born in Generation X (The NOW Generation) this issue is dedicated to you. With each successive generation’s progress, the previous one falls further behind. As well as the addition of entirely new devices to the market, existing ones are becoming more complicated, and require a better working knowledge of technology to operate. What’s next? Who knows? Just continue to enjoy the ride.

Thank you for your continued support of d-mars.com. When you support d-mars.com, you are supporting more than just our company; you are supporting the communities in which we live and work. Working together, we can succeed in making positive things happen.

CONTENTS Houston Black Leadership Forum………………………………………........... 5 Attorney Taft Foley: Houston’s Humanitarian & Philanthropist…….............. 6 Kirksey accepts new post: d-mars.com COO has deep industry roots….... 8 Local Mortgage Banker Making Mortgages Realistic……………….............. 10 Get the most from your doctor visits............................................................ 15 Marriage and Money……………………………………………………….......... 17 2011 African American Legislative Summit…………………………….…....... 18 GPC continues to deliver successful connections…………………….......... 22 How to Become a Specialist & Produce High Profit Results!........................ 27

LAYOUT & GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Ghuzzala Malik (Faith) Myron Davis

What generation are you part of, really?....................................................... 27

DISTRIBUTION Booker T. Davis, Jr. Johnny Ray Davis, Jr.

Little Known Black History “sayings”……………………………………......... 32

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Duron Lee Christopher P. Kirksey Darryl V. Samuels Dr. D. L. Jones D. Ivan Young Noel Pinnock Charles Swindell Jerome Love Shirley Hopkins

Finding a Fit for Commodities in your Portfolio…………………………........ 41

MetLife Study: Three Potential Advantages of a Roth IRA………................ 29 The Wealthiest Black Americans 2010……………………………….............. 30 The Secret To A Better Life……………………………………………….......... 34 How Small Businesses Can Use Life Insurance As A Business Asset…...... 39 “Raisin” teaches financial lessons……………………………………….......... 41 Breaking Up – Kids and Divorce……………………………………..……........ 42 Breaking up the Assets in Hard to Do……………………………………......... 43 Calling Old-School Mentors to Get Involved NOW!...................................... 44 Proud to be Opportunistic!............................................................................ 46

MR. D-MARS D-MARS.com Business Journal Tip of the Month “The greatest revolution of our generation is the discovery that human beings, by changing the inner attitudes of their minds, can change the outer aspects of their lives” - William James

march 2011

www.

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.

march 2011

www.

4.

Houston Area Black Community Leaders Collaborate to Address Community

H

ouston area Black businesses, professionals and advocacy organizations joined forces at the inaugural Houston Black Leadership Forum,

as the foundation and cornerstone in maintaining a thriving community.

“We as organizations are all committed to improving the quality of life in our communities,” McGowan said.

“This level of collaboration is a huge step forward in our collective progress.”

Confirmed panel guests included: Houston Citizens Chamber of Commerce – Eric R. Lyons, President & CEO The National Black MBA Association, Houston Chapter – Carl to discuss key issues in the community McGowan, President and allow participants and guests the The Houston Lawyer’s Association – opportunity to network.

Houston Citizens Chamber of Antoy Bell, President Elect Commerce (HCCC) President, Eric The Houston Medical Forum- Dr. Lyons said, “We were able to discuss Garfield Johnson- President a variety of issues including business growth and how to not only impact The Houston Area Urban Leagueyourself, but also impact the commu- Judson W. Robinson III, President & CEO nity.”

Conceptualized by HCCC Chair- American Association of Blacks in man, Carroll Robinson, The Leader- Energy, Houston Chapter – Terry ship Forum took place at The United Stringer, President Way of Greater Houston and was hosted by the Houston Citizens Chamber The Across the Track PAC – James of Commerce and the National Black Donatto Sr., Founding Member MBA Association and sponsored by National Society of Black Engineers – Who’s Who in Black Houston.

Johnny Gant, HAE Chair 2010-2011 National Black MBA Association (NBMBAA) Houston chapter presi- Houston Real Estate Associationdent, Carl McGowan, stressed the im- Courtney Johnson-Rose, President portance of Houston leaders serving NAACP- Rev. DZ Cofied, President

march 2011

www.

Texas Black Expo – Jerome Love, President National Association of African American HR Professionals-Darryl James, President 100 Black Men (Metropolitan Houston Chapter) – Frazier Wilson, President For additional information, visit www.hccoc.org or contact HCCC President Eric Lyons at 832.350.4222.

About the Houston Citizens Chamber of Commerce Since 1935, the Houston Citizens Chamber of Commerce has served as an advocate for African-American business owners and professionals in the Houston area. Seventy-five years later,

the organization’s mission and vision has flourished, reflecting the needs and growth of its members. HCCC has provided value to members, area businesses and the community and has remained committed to assisting African-American businesses succeed within the local community.

With much of the nation’s attention focused on the economic state of the country, HCCC has kept the needs of black business owners on the forefront, proving itself to be a premier organization focused on the prosperity and growth of Black entrepreneurs. Today, the Chamber remains focused on how to impact and provide advocacy, awareness and access to African-American businesses within the community.

5.

Attorney Taft Foley:

Houston’s Humanitarian & Philanthropist

By Duron Lee, Contributing Writer

Altruism is defined as a selfless quality wherein one acts for the purpose of helping others without concern for reward, or recognition.

What inspires Houston Attorney Taft Foley to give back to his community is the fact that he has been both a witness to and a victim of poverty, disadvantage and oppression. “Remembrance of the grumbling, baritone serenades of my own empty stomach is what motivates me to feed the hungry,” said Foley.

“The cry of my big brother whose life was violently taken is what beckons me to mentor at risk youth. The fear that my 8-year-old son will inherit a community in which AIDS is a probability and not a possibility is what motives my HIV/AIDS activism.”

The Foley Law Firm Community Development Initiative is comprised of three programs that address poverty, education and HIV/AIDS in the African American Community. The initiative consists of the Poverty Outreach Program, the Mentor Program and the HIV/AIDS Assistance Program. Since its inception in April of 2009, The Foley Law Firm Community Development Initiative has fed, mentored and provided volunteer assistance to hundreds of disadvantaged citizens of Houston.

Poverty Outreach Program:

Conference of Mayors: The homeless population is about 50 percent African-American, 35 percent white, 12 percent Hispanic, 2 percent Native American and 1 percent Asian.

On the first Friday of every month, The Foley Law Firm and its loyal team of volunteers assemble at 405 Main Street to prepare food baskets and meals, which are then delivered directly to Houstonians in need of assistance.

The Poverty Outreach program also includes an annual canned food drive in April and a blanket and clothing drive each November. “This program may have a minimal effect on the monumental social-economic dilemmas facing Houston’s poor, but our volunteers are humbled by the resilient spirit of the African-American community and honored to have an opportunity to help those who need it most,” said Foley.

among all blacks. The rate of new HIV infection for black men was 6 times as high as that of white men, nearly 3 times that of Hispanic/Latino men, and twice that of black women.

In 2006, the rate of new HIV in-

under 200 Social Security Appeals and has a success rate of 88%. In addition to social security appeals, our free legal services have included drafting wills, creating power of attorney designations and representing HIV/AIDS individuals on

fection for black women was nearly 15 times as high as that of white women and nearly 4 times that of Hispanic/Latina women. It is painfully obvious that African Americans face the most severe burden of HIV in Houston and the rest of America.

The Foley Law Firm often provides free legal services to members of the community infected with HIV or AIDS. Most of the work consists of representing individuals with their social security benefits appeals process.

Since the inception of The Foley Law Firm HIV/AIDS Assistance Program in 2008, The Foley Law Firm has filed just

employment discrimination cases.

HIV/AIDS Assistance Program:

It is well documented that AfricanAccording to Center for Disease Americans are disproportionately im- Control (CDC) statistics, African-

pacted by poverty and homelessness.

On any given night in America, between 350,000 and 1,000,000 AfricanAmericans are homeless, according to estimates of the National Law Center on Homelessness and Poverty. According to a December, 2010 report of the US march 2011

American women account for a staggering 75% of all women infected with HIV in Houston. The same study revealed that African-Americans comprise 55% of all new HIV infections in Houston. In 2006, black men accounted for two-thirds of new infections (65%) www.

Mentor Program: According to a May 10, 2006 U.S. Census Bureau report, fewer than 8%of African American men have graduated from college compared to 17% of whites and 35% of Asians. The unemployment rate for African-American men is more than twice that of their white counterparts. The percentage of African-American men in prison is nearly three times that of Hispanic men and nearly seven times that of White men. While African American men represent 14% of the U.S. population, they comprise over 6.

Promoting a giving spirit rubs off on those who see your efforts. If you are setting an example within the community, then your example will likely be followed by others. Your activism will result in peace of mind and an improved quality of life for the people that

hip-hop music, and safe sex, resume 40% of the prison population.

The Foley Law Firm Mentor Pro- writing, job interview skills, etiquette and the importance of an education. Out of the 65 participants since 1998, 60% finished high school and 25% have enrolled in college.

In addition the above listed programs, The Foley Law Firm has donated thousands of dollars and has provided volunteer and free legal assistance to institutions and social development orgram is the collaborative product of The Tiger’s Den (One of Houston’s premier ganizations, including TSU’s Thurgood Barbershops located on the campus of Marshall School of Law, The Earl Carl Texas Southern University) and The Institute, The Houston NAACP Legal Foley Law Firm. Ronald Legier, own- Redress and Ryan White HIV Clinics, er of the Tiger’s Den and Foley began Project Princess and The Star of Hope their grassroots mentorship efforts in Mission.

1998. Legier said, “We challenge our young men to find the courage to rise Conscious Capitalism: above their circumstances, realize their “Giving back will benefit the comacademic potential and overcome the munity and your business,” said Foley. obstacles imposed by disadvantage.”

“Any business knows that finding charities to give to that are easily recognized within the community can lead to great results. That’s not why many do it, but it is an added value that will help your business.

The good Karma that will come your way as a result of helping others is inescapable.”

There are many At the start of each school year, rewards of giving back to the commuLegier and Foley select 5 worthy candi- nity: dates to participate in the program. The only criterion for eligibility is that the Gets your business noticed: applicant’s household income cannot Communities have needs. If you exceed $25,000 per year and applicants are in a position to give back to the must be between the ages of 13 and 18. community, then your community will Each young man is then paired with an show its appreciation. People do not adult Mentor who follows the program forget the kindnesses shown to them in guidelines by participating in an activity hours of great need. Filling that void can with the child once per week. The en- get your business noticed in so many tire group meets on the last Saturday of positive ways that the benefits are uneach month for a seminar followed by a avoidable. group activity. The workshop seminars Makes your community a better have included topics such as religion, place to live: march 2011

www.

you assist.

An improved environment is good for business: Sometimes all a person needs is a little boost to get their lives on track. You can be the person or business

entity who steps up to the plate and gives them the needed encouragement. People who are assets to their community make it a great place to live and work. It is obvious that if a person is destitute or poor, they lack the resources needed to patronize your business. By helping people stay

Angels.

Produces bigger returns in the long run: The more you help, the longer people will remember you. That can pay big dividends for your business down the

road. It can also bail you out of trying times should any ever come your way.

Foley conclude, “The evolution of the Black middle class has resulted in a new type of house Negro in America.

These individuals exaggerate the individuality of disadvantage. Their indifference is based upon associating poverty with laziness, homelessness with drug use etc. The new house Negro allows his shiny material possessions to blind him to and incubate him from the ills of society. However, those material items are not guaranteed. What is here today can be gone tomorrow. Our lives are ultimately measured by our deeds, not the material possessions that we accumulate. That brother at the stop light with an out stretched hand could be you.

on their feet, you are actually helping to That at risk child in need of a mentor insure and protect cash flow. could be your child. But for the grace of God, your king sized bed could be reBenefits you during tax season: Under most circumstances, donat- placed with a cold sidewalk. Ultimately, ing money or gifts to nonprofit organi- the best way to express appreciation for zations is a tax write off. Enough said! your own blessings is to demonstrate a Two of Foley’s favorite nonprofit organi- kind heart and a giving spirit.” zations are Project Princess and Harley’s 7.

Kirksey accepts new post: d-mars.com COO has deep industry roots

W

hen Christopher P. Kirksey was growing up in Orange, Texas in the home of a single parent, he always knew that he would one day work in the field of Communications.

“My mother never talked about what field to pursue. She just constantly pushed me to succeed,” said Kirksey, who recently accepted the position of Chief Operating Officer and Editor in Chief at d-mars.com.

-- the city’s largest African-American publishing company.

As the hand-picked candidate

by President and CEO Keith Davis (Mr. D-mars), Kirksey’s words and actions will be closely watched not only by d-mars.com employees, but also by customers and competitors.

About d-mars.com

D-mars.com produces three monthly publications (Business Journal, Health and Wellness Journal and new to the line-up is the Faith Based Journal, which premiered January 2011.)

D-mars.com will add an International Journal to the line-up in April, 2011.

In his role as COO, Kirksey is responsible for the company’s dayto-day operating activities. He is also responsible for the overall quality and content of all of the publications, as well as setting the journalistic standards.

“This is a great company,” he says. “It’s a company that focuses on the community and its needs. I think I have the best job on Earth.”

Those who know him — friends and foes alike — say Kirksey is a very smart, personable executive who has all the attributes to lead d-mars.com well into the 21st century.

“He is a great guy,” said Mr. D-Mars. “Kirksey understands this industry and I am excited about his addition to our team.” march 2011

Orange upbringing

Kirksey said he developed his self-confidence and competitive spirit growing up in Orange. “My mother, from a very early age, said, ‘you can do whatever you put your mind to,’” said Kirksey. “I always had an environment around me that was never negative, that was always stretching.”

One of his teachers recalls Kirksey as an outgoing student who had his own mind and wasn’t afraid to express his ideas.

“He led by example, and he knew the student body,” said Robert Coombes, retired WO-S journalism teacher. “Looking back, I doubt if I would have made it through my first year of teaching journalism at West Orange-Stark High School if it had not been for Christopher Kirksey,” said Coombes. “Chris was a gift to me from the previous journalism teacher (I like to think the Good Lord had a hand in it, too). The previous teacher selected Chris to be co-editor of Mustang Message, the school’s student newspaper. Christopher took charge of the staff, and they enthusiastically embraced his leadership. He was a very good student journalist and a great leader and motivator.”

At the time Coombes said he was an experienced small town journalist with limited teaching experience.

“I sometimes think I learned more about high school journalism from Chris than he learned from me. My only regret about Christopher Kirksey was I only had him for one school year. He was a senior at the time.”

“Mr. Coombes was a great teacher,” said Kirksey. “With that small town journalism experience, and I don’t use the word small lightly, he taught me a valuable lesson once penned by Robert Half: ‘Delegating work works, provided the one delegating works, too,’” stated Kirksey. “I can recall preparing for High School UIL Contest my senior year, www.

he would sit me down and really pour his knowledge of journalism into me. He was a tall man, with a keen knowledge of his craft with a lot of patience,” said Kirksey. “I’m glad he had patience because I was truly a handful back then.”

Life in the Industry

Kirksey attended Stephen F. Austin State University, where he also served as a reporter and typesetter on the college newspaper staff, The Pine Log. “College Journalism was a whole lot different from what I experienced prior. Instead of producing a newspaper once a month -- we produced one three times a week,” said Kirksey. “I learned a lot at that pace. It taught me how to be organized and efficient.”

Later, he transferred to Lamar University – Orange, where he also served on the college newspaper staff as a reporter and later editor.

“This was a dejá vous experience,” said Kirksey. “The communications teacher, Betty Jo Spence, was the same teacher that appointed me editor my junior year in high school.”

He continued, “Ms. Spence was an excellent teacher. I learned the value of teamwork from her.”

The summer of 1987, with the ink of journalism in his blood, Kirksey, along with three high school friends, launched a local fashion and entertainment magazine called SATIN. “This was an amazing venture.

I hired and trained models, designed the publication, wrote articles and my friends assisted with photography and logistics.”

With that same ink still piercing through his veins, Kirksey then moved to Houston in 1992 to accept a position as Marketing Director at Met Printing, Inc. “This was truly a challenge and a unique opportunity,” said Kirksey.

“This company was not even hiring at the time. I had followed Met Printing for years and watched the

successes of their products.” Kirksey comments that he called the president, Edward Metoyer and asked to set up a meeting and interview. “I simply shared with Mr. Metoyer that his company could improve tremendously with me on staff.” Kirksey chuckles and continues, “Metoyer was a firm man and very intelligent.

During the meeting he laughed and said how?” He says Metoyer sent him back to his small town with a mission. “He told me to go back to Orange and bring him a proposal in one week demonstrating in complete detail of how I could grow his company. If he liked the proposal he would hire me. Well, I knew then that I had the job.”

Kirksey served at Met Printing as the company’s first marketing director, where his assignment was to increase Met Printing’s awareness and sales in the Houston area, specifically within the African-American community.

“Out of every employer I have had -- I learned the most from Ed Metoyer,” said Kirksey. “Metoyer took me under his tutelage and taught me commercial printing, customer service and sales; most importantly how to be a young man in business.” He begins to tear up as he continues, “He treated me like his son.”

In 1996, Kirksey stepped out on faith and established Kirksey & Company, a boutique Marketing and PR agency that served the Religious Community for seven years. Kirksey was one of the first in the city to usher in church marketing through Direct Mail. Kirksey has worked with and supervised many projects for most of Houston’s leading African American churches. Kirksey said, “Most of the mega churches in Houston today, at some time in the early 2000’s worked with me as I asContinue pg. 10 8.

march 2011

www.

9.

Kirksey concluded...

dace Sullivan, former employee.

sisted them with their efforts toward growing their ministries,” Kirksey boasts a very impressive resume from having worked with hundreds of the nation’s leading clergy and having taught church marketing in several major US cities to include Houston, Chicago, Atlanta, Washington D.C., Los Angeles and New York.

The next big hit

A man with ‘edge’

Truly a man with vision, those who know Kirksey say he also can be demanding. Long-time friend and former employee Stephanie Myers said, “Mr. Kirksey’s leadership style is innovative, motivating and it forces those who serve under him and with him to strive to do their best.” Myers continues, “He motivated me in a way and made me see things in myself that I thought weren’t possible.

He has an incredible passion for what he does and it definitely shows in the work he produces.”

“Christopher P. Kirksey is a one of a kind human-being. He is thoughtful, kind and a very giving man. He is always thinking of a new and innovative concept to make an opportunity excel to it greatest potential. He is a leader by teaching and setting an example of what it means to think out of the box. Leading, inspiring and excelling is what I see Kirksey doing in many years to come!” said Can-

march 2011

D-mars.com is currently strategizing to release its premier publication “The Good Life Magazine” later this year. Kirksey says plans are also under development to introduce DTV and D-Radio. “Our goal at d-mars.com is to create a media empire where African Americans can tell their story.”

Kirksey says d-mars.com will continue to examine publishing opportunities while keeping their eyes on the current trends in social media and networking. “Our goals are to maximize every opportunity,” said Kirksey.

Kirksey concludes, “I love the start to a new assignment because it’s a great time to absorb the energy I’ve made, participated in, shared, given and yes, taken over during the past assignments. I get to reflect on time spent in action and reminisce on the lessons learned from a calendar of successes and failures, both of which bring with them a heightened sense of understanding about who I am today, through what I’ve done or not done, yesterday.”

Kirksey is divorced and has three kids: Kenneth, 22; Jacoby, 21 and daughter Kristian Faith, 18. In his leisure time he enjoys reading, exercising, and spending time with his family and two grandsons Jordan and KJ.

www.

Alissa R. Jones:

Local Mortgage Banker Making Mortgages Realistic You’ve heard the saying “Meet the Joneses” … Well, ladies and gentlemen, meet Mrs. Alissa R. Jones.

Jones is a mortgage banker at Nations Reliable Lending. “We’re not just another banker that ‘shops.’ We originate and fund our loans,” said Jones.

Since 2006, Nations Reliable Lending has offered fixed and adjustable rate mortgages as well as refinancing options. Their services include but are not limited to home mortgage loans, fixed rate mortgage loans, adjustable rate mortgage loans, home improvement loans, debt consolidation, FHA , VA, and USDA loans, and refinancing.

Jones says all loans are created equal and she emphasizes that it is important to speak to a loan consultant about the specifics of your individual situation, including long term financial goals. “This can have more of an impact than any actual credit score,” said Jones. “Sometimes it may feel like a scavenger hunt when you’re in search of a loan best suited for your needs, but that is why it is vital that I educate the borrower about the pros and cons of each type of loan to make a wise decision.”

Jones has been in the financial industry for over 10 years and has learned several steps and laws about the industry and has obtained her Realtor and Loan Consulting licensures.

“Being a seasoned marketing and networking professional takes skill and perseverance as well as enjoying what you do; along with the will to be compassionate toward other’s needs, “says Jones. This powerhouse, who is a wife and mother of four, is a seasoned liaison dealing with millions of dollars during her tenure in the industry. As a networking businesswoman, she has been able to reach out to thousands and allot them the help they need to assure home ownership. Her network has been extended not only to individuals but to corporations in the financial industry, achieving well over $20.4 billion in revenue annually.

She is one of the leaders of the “New School” in the mortgage industry; building a business on integrity and trust but most importantly by just simply helping others achieve their goals.

Jones says she genuinely loves building ongoing relationships. “That has what lead me to be in the financial industry for many years. I do understand that when it comes to important financial decisions, you need a company you trust deeply.” For more information on Nations Reliable Lending visit www.

mytexaslender.com.

The following items are helpful to your loan being completed in a timely manner.

Property Information: • Copy of your Purchase Contract/ Agreement signed by all buyers and sellers (for purchase transactions only).

• Copy of the survey (this is a sketch of the property boundaries, but you may not have this if you are buying a new home).

Income Information (Employed): • Copy of your pay stub(s) covering the last 30 days.

• Copy of your W-2 Forms for the last 2 years.

Income Information (SelfEmployed): • Copies of your last 2 years personal and business federal income tax returns with all schedules.

Non-Verified (Stated) Income Information: • If self-employed, provide a letter from CPA stating that you have been self-employed for 2 years within your profession, or provide a business license for a 2 year period.

• If employed, provide your employment history for the past 2 years including your employer’s name, address, telephone number, dates of employment, and your position within the company.

Asset Information: • Copies of bank statements for the past 2 months for all accounts, including 401(k), IRA, investment, stock, and mutual funds.

Miscellaneous Information: • Copy of your current driver’s license.

• If you are not a citizen, a copy of the front and back of your green card.

• If you have rental property, provide a detailed list of each property address, the current mortgage balance, and the monthly rent.

• If applicable, a signed copy of your divorce decree.

• If you want child support considered as income, provide proof of receipt for the last 12 months.

• Last 12 months cancelled rent checks (if readily available and applicable).

• Copy of the current payoff for your existing mortgage (only if a refinance and readily available).

• If you have a homeowner’s insurance agent you wish us to use then please provide their contact information.

10.

march 2011

www.

11.

march 2011

www.

12.

march 2011

www.

13.

march 2011

www.

14.

Get the most from your doctor visits You and your doctor work together in managing your health. It is important for you to talk to your doctor about concerns and questions you may have.

You can share your efforts in making changes in your lifestyle habits. Your doctor may have some tips to help you make these changes. Keeping track of when you are due to have exams and preventive services helps both you and your doctor.

• Write down all instructions at the end of your visit.

march 2011

• What do my doctor and I agree I will DO after this visit?

• Ask if you should be aware of any signs or symptoms, good or bad, Taking Charge of Your Doctor Visit that may occur.

Worksheet • Ask if a follow-up visit or phone call A few minutes of preparation can is needed. help you and your doctor. Before your • Make sure all your questions are an- visit, read and answer the first two questions. Take the list and a pen or pencil to swered.

• If you are confused about anything, your appointment. Let the doctor read ask more questions: “Would you the list. During the visit, write down go over that again?” “I don’t under- what you need to remember to do after stand how to use this medication.” your appointment.

How to Talk with Your Doctor During Your Visit • Ask your doctor to explain, in terms you understand, anything that is How to Prepare for Your Doctor Visit not clear to you.

• It’s helpful to bring a list of medica• Tell your doctor everything. Don’t tions you are currently taking – betbe afraid that he or she might not ter yet, put your approve.

• If you do not agree with your doctor’s advice or feel you won’t be able to do everything he or she asks, let him or her know.

worksheet. It may be a helpful reference to use prior to each doctor visit.

medications into a paper bag and bring it to your doctor visit.

• Take a moment to review the “Taking Charge of Your Doctor Visit”

www.

Interested in small business health insurance for up to 99 employees? We encourage you and/or your broker to contact one of our sales representatives. Call us toll-free at (877) 233-0674 and request a free quote.

Looking for individual or family health insurance? UnitedHealthcare, through its affiliate Golden Rule Insurance Company, offers a wide variety of insurance plans, including copay plans, high deductible plans, and health savings account (HSA) plans, de• What do I want to TELL my doctor signed to help meet the needs of families and individuals. To get a free quote, call (800) today?

322-8835.

• What do I want to ASK my doctor today?

For example, – Are there any risk factors that I need to be aware of that are more prevalent among African Americans?

– What can I do to reduce these risks?

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

713.272.9511

15.

march 2011

www.

16.

Marriage and Money: Use the Power of Saving to Fund a Blissful Future cess as easy—and automatic—as possible, using such options as direct deposit from your bank account or direct payroll deductions.

Now that you’ve set up a savings list, you need to compare that list with what you’ve established as a budget.

This is an important step, because it may become apparent that your expenses are keeping you from achieving your savings goals as quickly as you’d like, and need to be reexamined. Ask yourself and your spouse where the both of you can spend less without drastically cutting your standard of living. Start a

By Charles Swindell, Financial Services Representative “pay yourself first” program, by automatically setting aside an amount each MetLife Bayou City TX Agency month. This amount can then be inContributing Writer creased if you get a raise or pay off an installment loan.

Here are some other suggestions to For newlyweds looking to start off on solid financial footing, these days, cut back on your spending: the path to success may seem filled with • Look at the big expense in your budpotential pitfalls. However, finding get and think about how you might your way doesn’t have to be as difficult cut them. as it seems. The key lies in learning how to manage the money that you take in, • Try to keep only small amounts on any credit cards you have, and pay and using this to build up a nest egg off most of the balance each month, that will allow you to get through the whenever possible. Charge items only shaky days. when absolutely necessary.

The first step to financial security involves putting together a budget, and • Don’t make an impulse buy, whether it be a new piece of electronics or a sticking to it. It isn’t a glamorous task, new item of clothing. but it is necessary, and one that you should not bypass. It will also involve the • Take your lunch and snacks to work. cooperation of both sides of the marital Avoid vending machines. equation, too, because sticking to a budget is a lot like rowing a boat—if you’re • Buy in bulk; use coupons. both not paddling in the same direction, • Entertain at home instead of going to you’re not going to get anywhere. a restaurant. Rent a DVD instead of Assuming you’ve successfully put taking a trip to the theater. together a budget that works for your new household, and you’re sticking to After you’ve trimmed and cut, you it, the next step is to establish goals for may still find that you’re unable to meet saving money. Now that it’s clear how your savings goals. If this is the case, it’s your money is being spent, it should time to reevaluate those goals. You may also become clear how much you can need to change the time frame you’ve actually set aside from your paychecks set to meet them. For example, perhaps each month. When setting these goals, that romantic vacation to Rome isn’t in look at it from two levels. First, you’ll the cards two years from now—maybe want to identify shorter-term goals, for five years is a more realistic goal. Someexpenses such as home improvement times, though, you’ll need to adjust the or a vacation. You’ll also want to estab- goal itself. lish longer-term goals, for things like a Once all the hard work of budgethome you can call your own or fulfill- ing and saving is accomplished, the next ing college education plans. step is to put your hard work into place, Ideally, you’ll want to save at least and stick to it. The good thing is, once 10 percent of your earnings, although saving becomes part of your routine, no amount is too small. Keep in mind, money will begin to accumulate, and in even a dollar a day adds up to $365 a less time than you’d think, too, through year. Also, try to make the saving pro- the power of compound interest. Even march 2011

www.

at just $1 a day, saving that money with a mere 4 percent interest rate will yield $1,929 after just five years. In thirty years, that amount grows to $21,169.

If you continue to set savings goals, these amounts will grow fueling more and more of the dreams you have for the future. And, in turn, it will also allow you to start making financial savings plans that can significantly improve your chances of living a comfortable lifestyle, all the way to retirement. Who would have thought a simple thing like actually saving could have so many benefits?

This article appears courtesy of Charles Swindell. Charles is a Regis-

tered Representative offering securities through MetLife Securities, Inc. (MSI) (member FINRA/SIPC). Metropolitan Life Insurance Company (MLIC), New York, NY, 10166. He focuses on meeting the individual insurance and financial services needs of people in the African-American market. You can reach Charles at the office at 10333 Richmond Ave Suite 1050, Houston, TX 77042 and 832-251-5493. MSI and MLIC are MetLife companies.

As prepared by MetLife Metropolitan Life Insurance Company, 200 Park Avenue, New York, NY 10166.

L0610110638[exp0611][All States][DC]

17.

march 2011

www.

18.

march 2011

www.

19.

march 2011

www.

20.

march 2011

www.

21.

Government Procurement Connections continues to deliver successful connections

J. Goodwille Pierre, M.Ed. J.D. Chair-Government Procurement Connections-2011

Have you ever wondered why some small and minority businesses are repeatedly successful in landing local, state or federal government contracts?

One vital reason is because those successful firms know their particular targeted agency’s procurement process and guidelines. While large firms business development and sales team understand every apect of

march 2011

agencies procurement process and guiding code of regulations, this is often a challenge for small and minority businesses to learn and grasp while also multi-tasking on other elements of running their business.

As a result, small businesses learn the hard way and miss the boat on winning government contract work.

The premier government contracting event of the year for small, minority, women-owned and disadvantaged businesses is fast approaching. This conference provides a great forum for government agencies, corporations and small businesses to discuss vital business relationships. Participants at Government Procurement Connections will have the opportunity to meet with more than 100 City, County, State and Federal representatives involved in purchasing, construction, and professional services contracting on April 6 & 7, 2011.

GPC 2011 - It’s Time to Move April 6 & 7, 2011 George R. Brown Convention Center

www.

April 6th Forums & Workshops Forums: 8:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

• IT / Communications • Engineering / Construction • Transportation • State of Texas HUB Workshops: 1:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.

• Strategic Partnerships • Marketing to Primes (Federal • How to obtain and grow your business using GSA schedules • Where’s the money?

• Master the Maze (Local) • Powerful tips to build your Social Media Plan to Grow Your Business

Exhibit Hall Opens - 9:30 a.m.

Over 100 Federal, State & Local Government Agencies Now in its 18th year, Government Procurement Connections continues to deliver its renowned “Mastering the Maze” educational workshop that is designed to unravel the mystery of how to do business with local agencies and be successful.

We invite you to register today for GPC 2011, It’s Time to Move and join industry experts on April 6, 2011 at GPC’s educational workshop to benefit from: • Gaining practical insights on agencies procurement process • Hearing success stories to learn best practices • Sharpening your skills to boost your success ratio

Kick-Off/Networking Reception 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

1201 Caroline St. -Downtown Choose today to unravel the mysHouston, TX tery of government procurement processes and register for GPC 2011 at www.houstongpc.org or call NorApril 7 ma at 713.837.9015. You’ll be glad Awards Breakfast - 7:30 a.m. you did.

- 9:00 a.m.

22.

march 2011

www.

23.

march 2011

www.

24.

march 2011

www.

25.

march 2011

www.

26.

How to Become a Specialist and Produce High Profit Results!

Jerome Love, Contributing Writer

Jerome Love The success or failure of any business resides in people – people to support the business. People like to feel special. If people are of utmost importance to your business, and if people like to feel special, why not become a specialist?

One major problem with many small businesses is that they try to be all things to all people. This is virtually impossible, especially for a small business owner with a limited budget.

If you are opening a furniture store and don’t have hundreds of thousands of dollars in extra cash, you can’t possibly compete with the inventory or the showroom of million- dollar furniture juggernauts like Star Furniture or Rooms To Go, so why try?

Take Chair King, for instance. They specialize in chairs. That’s it. They have created their own niche in the furniture world by becoming specialists, and you can too. By going this route, you would save a ton of money on inventory, and you would pay less for rent because your showroom is smaller, which keeps your overhead down.

Another way to specialize is on a feature or service. Here in Houston, Texas, there is a local furniture store that took on the furniture giant mentioned above, and it is doing very well.

Why? The owner specialized not on the product but on the service that he offered. He understood that the main concern of a person buying furniture is how long it would take to be delivered.

Understanding this, he crafted a brilliant marketing strategy with one word: TODAY! He guaranteed that if you bought furniture from him, it would be delivered TODAY! As a result, his store is number one in the city.

What generation are you part of, really?

Take this test.

If you want to know how old you really are, look at the media you use rather than the generation you were born into.

Generational labels are important in the discussion of the changing workforce. For example, we need to understand who is pushing for change and who is criticizing change in order to understand how to create workplace bridges. And increasingly, young people are calling for baby boomers to get out of the way.

However I get a lot of email from people at the later end of the baby boom who do not identify with baby boomers. To some extent researchers have dealt with this issue by categorizing the latter section of the baby boom march 2011

Keep in mind as well that people are willing to pay a premium for what they deem special. If you have a cold, any doctor will do, so you go to a general practitioner. However, if you have a heart condition, you go to a cardiologist – and you pay a premium for it.

When beginning my speaking career, I was your typical motivational speaker, so if a school or association was having an event and needed A speaker, they would hopefully give me a call.

They just needed A speaker – more importantly A speaker that fit their budget.

Then, I had an experience that would change me forever. After I wrote my book on entrepreneurship, I was selected as a featured speaker at the Collegiate Entrepreneurs Organization’s national conference. I had become a business specialist! After the conference, I got a call from someone else wanting to bring me in to speak. After a brief discussion about their program, I asked, “What’s your budget?” He re-

sponded, “You tell us what you need, and we’ll find it!” You see, they didn’t just need A speaker. They needed a specialist, which just happened to be me, and price was not an issue!

Become a specialist. Not only can it increase your income potential, it can help you to keep your costs lower.

If you are serious about doing business differently while making a ton of cash in the shortest amount of time, be sure to get the FREE REPORT: “7 Strategies for New Business Owners that Put Your Business on the FAST Track to HUGE Profit and Beat the Pants Off Your Competition!” This powerful report is available at www.texasblackexpo. com/freereports.

should be by behaviors because this is something each of us chooses.”

Another reason to use media engagement to peg someone’s age is that the media we use reflects both the space we live in and the circle of friends we run with. For example, you probably won’t find the Wii at a senior center, and you do what your friends do or you’re out of the loop.

So here is a test I put together with the help of an interview with Weigel and an evening reading her blog. Add up your points to figure out what generation you’re really a part of:

Do you blog for professional reasons?

(1 point)

Do you have your own web page? (1 separately, as Generation Jones (born point) between 1954 and 1965). This category will make some people feel better, but Have you made a web page for someone there still will be baby boomers who are else? (2 points) indignant at being lumped with the de- Do you IM your friends? (1 point) lusional, self-centered, money-hungry baby boomers.

Do you text your friends? (2 points) But hold it. Maybe you are not really part of the generation your birth- Do you watch videos on YouTube? (1 point) day falls under.

Here’s an idea: We should deter- Do you remix video files from the Inmine our generation not by our age ternet? (2 points) but by how we use media. This comes from Margaret Weigel, who has worked Have you paid for and downloaded at Harvard and MIT doing research music from the Internet? (1 point) on digital media engagement:* “We should not judge people rigidly by the Do you know where to download free years they were born,” she says, “If we (illegal) music from the Internet? (2 want to define people by categories, it points) www.

Jerome Love, President Texas Black Expo, Inc. Author of “Get Up, Get Out & Get Something: How Contrapreneurship Can Help You Build a Booming Business!”

Do you blog as a way to keep an online diary? (2 points) Have you visited MySpace at least five times? (1 point) Do you communicate with friends on Facebook? (2 points) Do you use email to communicate with your parents? (1 point) Did you text to communicate with your parents? (2 points) Do you take photos with your phone?

(1 point) Do you share your photos from your phone with your friends? (2 points)

0-4 point – Baby Boomer 5 - 10 points – Generation X 11 or over – Generation Y

Sign Up on Our Online Mailing List @ d-mars.com

713.272.9511 27.

THE EXPERT NETWORK ATTORNEYS

march 2011

www.

28.

MetLife Study: Three Potential Advantages of a Roth IRA benefit from tax deferral each year with no requirement to take distributions.

3.) Contributions may continue through any age. Provided eligibility requirements are met and that you have compensation (as defined by the Internal Revenue Code).

By Charles Swindell, Financial Services Representative MetLife Bayou City TX Agency Contributing Writer Many may not understand what a Roth IRA is, and what some of the benefits of a Roth IRA are. But there are three advantages that a Roth IRA can offer if your estate value is under the Applicable Exclusion Amount and if one of your planning goals is to leave as much money as possible to your heirs.

Defining The Roth IRA Simply stated, the Roth IRA is an IRA that individuals make contributions to on an after tax basis (contributions to a traditional IRA are generally made with pre-tax money). When qualified withdrawals are taken from a Roth IRA1, they are totally free from federal income tax (state income tax treatment may vary depending upon your state of residence).

Benefits of a Roth IRA There are three.

1.) Passing income tax-free money to an heir. The estate planning benefits begin with the Roth IRA’s ability to pass money to a beneficiary income tax-free on qualified distributions at your death, provided the Roth IRA satisfies a five-year holding period.

With the Roth IRA, you may have the opportunity to save more money for your heirs than with a traditional IRA, especially if you live a long time. Do remember that IRA money, including money in a Roth IRA, passed to heirs will be included in your gross estate for federal estate tax purposes.

Meet with your tax advisor and financial professional to discuss your personal situation and how a Roth IRA strategy may help you to meet your goals.

1Tax-Free Roth IRA withdrawals of earnings permitted five years after first contribution creating account. Once the five year requirement is met, distributions will be free from federal income taxes if taken: (1) after age 59 1/2; (2) on account of disability or death; or (3) to pay up to $10,000 of the expenses of purchasing a first home. Withdrawals of earnings made earlier than five years after the first Roth IRA account contribution, will be generally subject to a 10% IRS penalty and taxed at ordinary income tax rates. For conversions involving annuity contracts, the Tax-Free Roth IRA withdrawals of earnings permitted five years after first contribution creating account. Once the five year requirement is met, distributions will be free from federal income taxes if taken: (1) after age 59 1/2; (2) on account of disability or death; or (3) to pay up to $10,000 of the expenses of purchasing a first home. Withdrawals of earnings made earlier than five years after the first Roth IRA account contribution, will be generally subject to a 10% IRS penalty and taxed at ordinary income tax rates. For conversions involving annuity contracts, the taxable amount may be based on the fair market value of the contract, which may be more than the account value and may result in the taxable amount being more than you would otherwise expect.

the promotion and marketing of Roth IRAs. You should seek advice based on your particular circumstances from an independent tax advisor.

This article appears courtesy of Charles Swindell. Charles is a Registered Representative offering securities through MetLife Securities, Inc. (MSI)(member FINRA/ SIPC). Metropolitan Life Insurance Com-

pany (MLIC), New York, NY, 10166. He focuses on meeting the individual insurance and financial services needs of people in the African-American market. You can reach Charles at the office at 10333 Richmond Ave Suite 1050, Houston, TX 77042 and 832-251-5493. MSI and MLIC are MetLife companies.

L0410100043[exp0411][All States][DC]

2.) The Roth IRA avoids forced depletion at old age. Due to minimum distribution requirements (forced distributions at age 70 ½), many traditional IRAs may be substantially depleted if their owners The information contained in this live into their late 80s or beyond. document is not intended to (and canSince a Roth IRA faces no such not) be used by anyone to avoid IRS requirements, it can continue to penalties. This document supports march 2011

www.

29.

The Wealthiest Black Americans 2010

reer wins. Named PGA Player of the Year nine times. Total career winnings: $84 million. Intensely marketable; annual on-course winnings represent less than 15% of his income. Lucrative sponsorship contracts from Nike, Gatorade, Gillette, Accenture, AT&T and others earn him at least $100 million each year. Returned to competitive golf in February after rehabbing knee injury for eight months. Dramatically won the Arnold Palmer Invitational by one shot a few weeks later. Rare comment in 1995 on his ethnic background: “The various media have portrayed me as African-American and Asian. I am both.”

3. Robert Johnson Net worth: $550 million, Source of wealth: BET, investments, Age: 63 Former billionaire’s fortune has fallen from peak as recession hammered media and hotel markets. Founded cable channel Black Entertainment Television in 1979 with $15,000 of his own money and a $500,000 investment by cable king John Malone’s Tele-Communications Inc. Became the first AfricanAmerican billionaire in 2000 by selling BET to Viacom for $3 billion in stock and assumed debt. Former wife and BET co-founder, Sheila Johnson, took big chunk of fortune in 2002 divorce. Shares of Viacom down 50% since last May, CBS off 70%. Formed RLJ Companies: hotels, casino games, banks, NBA’s Charlotte Bobcats. Pledged to raise $30 million investment fund for Liberia; opening of $8 million Kendeja Resort slated for early summer.

1. Oprah Winfrey Net worth: $2.7 billion, Source of wealth: Harpo Productions, Age: 55

4. Michael Jordan

The Oprah brand continues to hold its value despite the recession, as viewers tune in for monNet worth: $525 million, Source ey-saving tips, celebrity interviews of wealth: Basketball, Nike, enand relationship advice. Rural dorsements, Age: 46 Mississippi native worked the television news circuit in NashArguably the greatest basketball ville, Tenn., and Baltimore, Md. player ever. Led the NBA’s Chicago Transformed faltering Chicago Bulls to six world championships morning program into popular during the 1990s. Left basketball talk show. Launched The Oprah for stint as a minor league baseball Winfrey Show nationally in 1986; player after third NBA championnow airs in 144 countries, brings in 44 million U.S. viewers each week. Her ship in 1993; returned to the Bulls Harpo Productions helped create the Dr. Phil and Rachael Ray and Dr. Oz two years later. Retired again 1999; shows. The Media matriarch just launched the Oprah Winfrey Network took ownership stake and executive and her foundation recent- job with the Washington Wizards. Returned to the court in 2001; signed ly donated to schools in 2-year contract with Wizards. Total points scored: 32,292, ranking him Newark, N.J., and Atlanta. third all-time. Released Air Jordan basketball sneaker with Nike in 1984.

The Jordan brand brings in hundreds of millions of dollars each year in sales for Nike; royalty checks from that provide the bulk of former star’s income today. Other lucrative deals throughout career: Gatorade, Hanes, Upper Deck. Owns stake in Robert Johnson’s Charlotte Bobcats; runs team’s basketball operations. Son Jeffrey plays basketball at the University of Illinois, younger son Marcus recently signed letter of commitment to play for University of Central Florida next fall.

Net worth: $600 million, Source of wealth: Golf, endorsements, Age: 33 Golf prodigy showed off his putting skills on The Mike Douglas Show at age 2, has dominated the links ever Net worth: $500 million, Source of wealth: Restaurants, real estate, investsince. Left Stanford Uni- ments. Age: 49 versity after two years at age 20 in 1996 to turn pro. Has since won 66 PGA tournaments, including 14 Grew up in Lansing, Mich., with nine brothers and sisters. Father worked major championships. Now hunting Jack Nicklaus’ record of 18 major ca- at General Motors plant; mother was school custodian. Played at Michigan

2. Tiger Woods

5. Earvin “Magic” Johnson, Jr.

march 2011

www.

30.

State; won national championship in 1979 in one of many legendary matchups against Larry Bird. Led Los Angeles Lakers to five world championships; 13-year career in NBA included three MVP awards, 12 NBA All-Star games, a gold medal at the 1992 Barcelona Olympics and induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. Retired from NBA after announcing he had contracted HIV, became an entrepreneur. Introduced well-known brands to ethnically diverse neighborhoods via Magic Johnson Enterprises. Today has partnerships with Starbucks, 24 Hour Fitness, T.G.I. Fridays, AMC Theatres. Also invests in urban real estate and companies catering to America’s underserved markets via his Canyon-Johnson and Yucaipa-Johnson funds. Has awarded more than $1.1 million to community-based organizations that focus on HIV/AIDS education and prevention.

6. William Henry Cosby, Jr.

8. R. Donahue Peebles

Net worth: $350 million, Source of wealth: Real estate, Age: 49 Grandson of a hotel doorman. Owns one of the country’s largest AfricanAmerican real estate development companies; Peebles Corporation’s portfolio includes hotels, apartments and office space in Miami Beach and Washington, D.C. “Don” left Rutgers University in 1979 to become a real estate agent in the District of Columbia. Worked on Capitol Hill as a page and an intern for congressmen John Conyers and Ron Dellums while attending Capitol Page School.

Today owns 13 acres of prime Las Vegas land behind Steve Wynn’s Encore casino; slated for redevelopment. Also owns pricey land in Southern California. Authored two books, The Peebles Principlesand The Peebles Path to Real Estate Wealth.

9. Berry Gordy, Jr. Net worth: $325 million, Source of wealth: Motown, Jobete, Age: 79

Net worth: $450 million, Source of wealth: The Cosby Show, entertainment, Age: 71 Legendary comedian born in Philadelphia. Left high school in 10th grade; finished via correspondence course while in the Navy. Broke a long-standing racial barrier when he was cast as an equal to a white actor on NBC’s “I Spy” in the 1960s; role as Alexander Scott garnered him three Emmy Awards. Left TV for stand-up comedy. Returned to the small screen 1984; launched The Cosby Show on NBC, propelling the network to first place. Iconic show about an uppermiddle-class black family living in New York has made him hundreds of millions in pay and syndication dollars. Best-selling book Fatherhood sold 4 million copies. Today spends time doing stand-up on the road. With wife, Camille, donated $20 million in 1988 to Spelman College in Atlanta. Continues to support education, various social service and civil rights organizations. Jazz enthusiast also built collection of 400 works of African-American art dating from the 18th through the 20th century. Awarded Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2002 in recognition of his contributions to American culture. Net worth probably higher.

Music pioneer put away his boxing gloves for songwriting at age 20. Borrowed $800 from parents to build his own record label. Created Motown Records in Detroit.

Wrote hit songs (“Lonely Teardrops,” “I’ll be Satisfied”), managed talent (Jackson 5, The Supremes, Smokey Robinson, Lionel Richie, Stevie Wonder). Known for running Motown’s record production like an assembly line, emulating Detroit’s Big Three car companies; fought numerous lawsuits brought by recording artists and songwriters alleging unpaid royalties throughout career. Sold Motown Records in 1988 for $61 million; later sold Jobete Music Corp. in installments to EMI Music Publishing for more than $300 million combined. Hit movie Dreamgirls said to be loosely based on Motown; Paramount Pictures and Dreamworks issued an apology to Gordy in 2007 for any confusion the fictional story might have caused regarding Motown’s legacy.

10. Quintin Primo III Net worth: $300 million, Source of wealth: Real estate, Age: 55

7. Sheila Johnson

Minister’s son grew up in Chicago. Played keyboard, trumpet in college jam band. Harvard University MBA 1979. First finance gig in Citicorp’s real estate lending division. Founded Capri Capital in 1992 with childhood friend Daryl Carter. Early successes extending Net worth: $400 million, Source of mezzanine loans to small borrowers that wealth: BET, investments, Age: 60 larger firms didn’t bother to serve. Today portfolio dominated by apartment comDoctor’s daughter and violinist coplexes but projects are diverse: three years founded Black Entertainment Teleago paid $136 million for Baldwin Hills vision with former husband Robert Crenshaw Plaza shopping mall in southJohnson; couple met in college at ern Los Angeles. Carter left in 2007, PriUniversity of Illinois. Duo sold netmo stayed on as chairman and chief execwork to Viacom for $3 billion in utive. Assets under management are now stock and assumed debt; split fortune $4.3 billion. Announced $2 billion Saudi in divorce in 2002 after 33-year marventure last June; will build hotels, office riage. Today she is chief executive of towers, condos in one of King Abdullah’s Salamander LLC, which controls a portfolio of luxury resorts. Through in- anointed “economic zones.” Also plans to vestment in Lincoln Holdings, owns stake in NHL’s Washington Capitals, invest $1 billion in distressed assets, halfNBA’s Washington Wizards, and WNBA’s Washington Mystics. Johnson is built construction projects in U.S. with the Mystics’ president and managing partner financing from U.S. Treasury. march 2011

www.

31.

Little Known Black History “sayings” One of the most hilarious things we’ve seen on the internet in ages is Brokey McPoverty’s “Little Known Black History Facts.”

The site pokes fun at fictional moments in black history in a way that only we can appreciate. Where else would you find out who invented “Hide and Go Get It” or who the first person was to put a utility bill in their child’s name?

All of us are probably guilty of at least one thing on this site, so don’t get offended! Smile, laugh, and keep putting that bacon grease in the coffee can at the back of your stove.

Conclusion...

First person to caution that God don’t like ugly.

32

39

VIRGIL T. BANKS: First person

to use the phrase “see, what had happened was…”

33

Johnston Green First to refer to someone as “high yellow.”

34

Sandra Robinson First person to keep her good jewelry in a Crown Royal bag.

35

36

Jamaica Masby First to throw her hands in the air and wave them around as if she truly didn’t care.

37

Mustafa Malik Jones First person to convert to Islam while in prison.

38

“June Bug” McDaniels Bennett Coined the phrase “My name is Bennett, and I ain’t in it.”

ADRIAN BARBER: First person

to hang over 10 Little Tree car fresheners on the rear view mirror of his car.

40

Al Treville First person to refer to vagaina as “poontang.”

41

RUTHIE MCCAULEY: First per-

Ella Banks

son to inform somebody that she don’t have to do nothing “but stay black and die.” march 2011

www.

32.

THE EXPERT NETWORK ATTORNEYS

march 2011

www.

33.

The Secret To A Better Life:

Set Intentions, Don’t Make Resolutions of making one’s plans known while allowing for flexibility as change and adjustment are called for.

Being Gentle With Ourselves

W

hen the New Year came around, many of us made New Year’s resolutions as a way to prepare ourselves for activating important changes in our lives. Resolutions have been around since time immemorial, and we are all familiar with these promises that we frequently make to ourselves following the excesses of the holiday season.

We also know that, more often than not, resolutions have a way of falling by the wayside as our “resolve” to act in a certain way weakens or becomes diluted amidst the busy days of our lives.

A resolution is defined in the dictionary as “a firm decision to do or not to do something”, and while this is well and good, I would like to offer another term to apply as we continue along this new year.

If we make ourselves promises that we may not be able to keep in the New Year, the potential for failure is indeed high. However, if we set a gentle intention, we can make that intention our goal while also giving ourselves some breathing room if we don’t necessarily make the grade. While it’s true that you could also do the same thing with a resolution, I believe that changing the semantics of this practice is an important step in creating an inner mental environment that encourages our success while also holding us gently accountable without recrimination or blame.

of possible outcomes with which one could be happy is a recipe for success, a success which can then be used as fertile ground for further accomplishments.

For example, if you set an intention of losing one pound per month and only lose half a pound each month, there is still reason for celebration. You don’t need to see the weight loss cup as half full. Rather, celebrate the loss of half a pound and see this as a sign that further success is indeed possible.

to alter the trajectory of our lives by promising to do things differently. Caution is urged when it comes to setting goals, with achievable goals being preferred to those that are almost impossible to fulfill. Whether you “resolve” or “intend” to change is, in the end, beside the point. Make your resolutions and set your intentions with an attitude of compassion and self-acceptance, and allow the small successes to feed the greater whole. After all, New Year’s Day is not only the first day of the year, it is New Year, New Beginnings also, like any other day, the first day of The New Year is often seen as a the rest of your life. chance to change, to break new ground,

Advertise today in D-MARS Business Journal Call US TODAY! 713.272.9511

Intentions and Accountability

Holding ourselves accountable for changes we wish to make in our lives is not easy, but setting intentions for ourselves allows us to plan, activate change, make adjustments when we’re unable to completely fulfill our intentions, and hold ourselves accountable to do our best even when we fall short of our goal.

When it comes to accountability, we can approach this aspect of our intentions with a harsh attitude or a benevolent compassion for our own shortcomings and challenges. Change is difficult, and it can often take multiSetting Intentions Rather than ple attempts to achieve our goals, even Making Resolutions if we need to modify those goals along While it may seem like splitting the way. Thus, compassion is the key semantic hairs, I propose the notion to allowing our challenges to not be of setting intentions for the New Year seen as failures. rather than making resolutions. An intention is defined as “the determination Semantics Aside to act in a certain way” or “what one No matter whether one chooses intends to do or bring about”. Thus, to set intentions or make resolutions, rather than making a resolution that planning for success is important, as is involves a “firm decision” to do some- planning to compensate for problems thing (a decision that can often be re- and challenges along the way. Making versed by all manner of circumstances), hard and fast rules is generally a set up an intention is a more gentle method for failure, whereas creating a range march 2011

www.

34.

THE EXPERT NETWORK

march 2011

www.

35.

THE EXPERT NETWORK

march 2011

www.

36.

THE EXPERT NETWORK

march 2011

www.

37.

THE EXPERT NETWORK

march 2011

www.

38.

How Small Businesses Can Use Life Insurance as a Business Asset

By Shirley Hopkins, Contributing Wrtier

S

mall business owners that have previously borrowed money can attest that actually being capable of repaying the loan is the core of credit worthiness.

They can also attest that the approval process significantly hinges on how risky the applicant appears.

That said, credit worthiness isn’t as simple as the term implies. There are actually many rather complex variables involved.

First of all, just because a new business has a seemingly valuable potential doesn’t mean things always pan out. In fact, new businesses are often notorious for failing to live up to expectations. A business may launch with an innovative concept, but will usually find that the road from concept to profit is long and hard. It’s also during the initial stages of

march 2011

a business where the owner is trying to figure out and reach their target market, a process that takes time and money when profits are at a bare minimum.

This is a common reason that many business owners find themselves unable to make their loan payments.

When determining the credit worthiness of a business owner, lenders also commonly look beyond just how balance sheets add up. For example, the lender might look at intangible aspects like community leadership and ties, reputation, and character. This might include the lender investigating whether or not the business owner has a history of reliability and timeliness when paying off past financial obligations and how past relationships with the lending institution turned out. All of these factors will help determine whether or not the business owner is granted the loan.

www.

One way to prove credit worthiness outside of the above, is by owning a life insurance policy, as this can show that the business owner has a financial commitment to his/her business and values that commitment. In the eyes of the lender, the life insurance policy means that the business owner has left a viable way for their beneficiary to follow-through with any financial obligation to them.

When a life insurance policy is bought through the business, it makes it a business asset, and like any other business asset, the life insurance policy will become part of the balance sheet that lenders will look at. If a portion of the life insurance benefit is assigned to the lending institution, then the insurance can also be used as loan collateral.

As far as loans go, the cash value of a life insurance policy is another useful tool. The cash value can be a guarantee against defaulting, as it can be borrowed against for payments.

In fact, the cash value of life insurance policy can actually serve several purposes for the business. Borrowing against it is quick and doesn’t require the business owner to get approved for a loan. Borrowing against a life insurance policy is tax friendly and the cash value usually accumulates in a tax-deferred status, meaning that there aren’t any

earning taxes while the policy is active.

In most cases, a withdrawal (not surpassing the amount of paid premiums) aren’t subject to taxation. In the event more money is needed than has accrued in cash value, the business owner can usually borrow against the policy without triggering a taxable event.

Shirley Ann Harmon-Hopkins is the owner of Allnsure Insurance Agency. Allnsure is an Independent Insurance Agency representing many reputable companies and offering coverage for all lines of personal and commercial insurance, as well as life, health, and disability. Hopkins has a B.B.A. with concentration in Marketing from Texas Southern University – Houston, TX. Hopkins has more than ten years of Insurance Agency Ownership and is recognized by insurance management as consistently being named among Top Ten Line of Business Leaders, achieved Honor Ring recognition for Agency production and profit and advanced technical expertise, with a high level knowledge of insurance, underwriting principles, practices and procedures.

Hopkins possesses effective and outstanding interpersonal skills with a proven track record of establishing and maintaining long-term alliances and relationships and she has strong analytical and problem solving skills with the ability to manage and prioritize multiple tasks.

39.

THE EXPERT NETWORK

march 2011

www.

40.

Finding a Fit for Commodities in your Portfolio These days, advertisements for investing in commodities are nearly everywhere. On T.V., radio and billboards, famous and not-so-famous people champion products like gold, silver and oil as reliably good investments.

The appeal is easy to understand; at a time when many investors are still licking their wounds from losses suffered during the Great Recession, can’t we all sympathize with the urge to invest in something which retained its value during the crisis?

But is there really room in your portfolio to invest in commodities?

What are the drawbacks? Are there risks involved?

You should understand the characteristics of commodity investments and determine an appropriate level to include in your overall asset mix before making any investment decisions. Generally speaking, commodities should not be considered a substitute for your core investments in stocks, bonds and cash-equivalent instruments.

The complexities of commodities Gold and oil are the two most visible commodities considered for investment purposes. But a wide range of commodities fall into this category,

ranging from natural gas to copper to pork bellies. Finding investment success in any single type of commodity can be challenging, particularly for those with little experience in this market. Commodity prices have a history of significant volatility. Prices can change dramatically and with little notice. That is a recipe for potential investment disaster if you are not careful about choosing the right investment.

Consider the volatile nature of prices on oil futures contracts on the New York Mercantile Exchange in recent years. Based on data published by The Wall Street Journal, in July 2007, oil was up to $78/barrel. About one year later, oil futures topped the $145/ barrel mark. By December of 2008, five months later, the price of an oil future contract fell to just $35/barrel. This type of price movement is an indication of the risks associated with investing in a single type of commodity.

Yet if structured correctly within a diversified portfolio, commodities can help reduce volatility in your overall investment mix. Often, commodity prices tend to move in a different direction from the stock and bond markets.

In the period from October 2007 to March 2009, the stock market, as

measured by the Standard & Poor’s 500 stock index (an unmanaged index of stocks), lost 57% of its value. During that same period of time, gold prices (based on the spot price of gold on the Commodity Exchange or COMEX) rose 25%, helping to smooth the performance of a portfolio that included gold in the mix.

Using a cautious approach While investing in any single type of commodity may carry undesirable risk for most investors, a good case can be made for other approaches that are readily accessible.

Commodity-focused mutual funds

or exchange-traded funds (ETFs) are two alternatives to consider. Funds like these offer diversification within the marketplace to provide a degree of protection from the volatile nature of individual commodities markets. Some funds invest specifically in commodity-related indexes. Others may invest in companies that participate in selected commodity businesses, such as oil exploration firms or gold mining companies.

It makes sense to talk to your investment advisor and try to determine the most appropriate way to diversify into commodities within your overall portfolio.

“Raisin” teaches financial lessons

Darryl V. Samuels Reel Life, Real Business Contributing Writer What would you do if you received an insurance check for $10,000?

Would you spend it? Give it away to charity? Invest in a business? Further your education? Or save it for a rainy day? What would you do to make your dreams a reality? march 2011

Dreams can make a life worth living, but they can also be dashed by bad decisions. This is the crossroad where the Younger family, the main characters of the classic play and movie, “A Raisin in the Sun”, written by Lorainne Hansberry, starring Sean “Diddy” Combs, Sanaa Lathan, Audra McDonald, and Phylicia Rashad, find themselves when their father passes away and leaves them with $10,000 in life insurance money.

“A Raisin in the Sun” portrays a few weeks in the life of the Youngers, an African-American family living on the South Side of Chicago in the 1950s.

When the film opens, the Youngers are about to receive an insurance check for $10,000.

This money comes from the deceased Mr. Younger’s life insurance policy. Each of the adult members of the family has an idea as to what he or she would like to do with this money.

The matriarch of the family, Lena, wants to buy a house to fulfill a dream she shared with her husband. Lena’s www.

son, Walter Lee, would rather use the money to invest in a business venture with his friends. He believes that the investment will solve the family’s financial problems forever.

Walter’s wife, Ruth, agrees with Lena, however, and hopes that she and Walter can provide more space and opportunity for their son, Travis.

Finally, Beneatha, Walter’s sister and Lena’s daughter, wants to use the money for her medical school tuition.

She also wishes that her family members were not so interested in joining the white world. Beneatha instead tries to find her identity by looking back to the past and to Africa.

As the movie progresses, the Youngers clash over their competing dreams.

The Youngers are us. We all have dreams of making it big in the world, but really don’t know how to pull it off.

Watching the film with an entrepreneur’s eye provides insight on how free will and personal responsibilities affect choices the characters made in regards

to their perception of money, what it could do for them, and what it actually does to them.

The movie also provides exceptional illustrations of the importance of leadership, business planning, and understanding the importance of contractual relationships which are important for business start-ups. We can learn from the Youngers.

A good movie can teach! Rent or buy “A Raisin in the Sun” and discuss your financial future with your family and friends.

D. Samuels & Associates, LLC Training, Development & Project Management

41.

Breaking Up - Kids and Divorce

Minimizing Negative Effects on Your Children

By D. Ivan Young / Relationship Expert & Best Selling Author Contributing Writer

I

f you’re the parent, grandparent, aunt, uncle, or friend of a child that’s being affected by a failed relationship, what you say, and do has lifelong effects on that child. This article addresses the importance of your contribution in minimizing the negative effects of breakups and divorce on children. The nature of your relationship with the child is irrelevant. If he or she is within earshot of you, what you do and what comes out your mouth may do irreparable psychological harm.

Foolish, irresponsible comments made in the presence of children by friends, family members, neighbors, teachers, and others needlessly crush their self-esteem. Such thoughtless actions intensify the suffering, sadness, tribulations, and unhappiness that children experience while their family is going through a breakup. They’re never too young or old to be immune to what you say.

If you think physical molestation has cataclysmic effects on children, it pales in comparison to the effects associated with character assignation of a child’s parent. In 2010, I did more than 150 interviews for print, radio, and television entities. Not once did I have someone engage a dialogue where children didn’t become part of the discussion. Honestly, there were times that tears formed in the corners of my eyes due to the selfish, ignorant thought processes and comments of so-called family friends, estranged in-laws, and even parents. march 2011

With that stated, I want to address the effects of your comments in the presence of children. To begin with, please consider that they are already in a tormenting stressed state. Not thinking before you speak fosters unnecessary pain to a child that’s already emotionally wounded. I’m going to use my childhood as an example. As a child, I was teased because my parents were much older than those of my peers. What a majority of my classmates didn’t know is that I was an adopted child. To this day, I remember how hurt and embarrassed the children made me feel when my parents would come to pick me up.

Mind you, I had a wonderful Mom and Dad who were happily married. Can you fathom how bad it must be for a child to hear another child talk negatively about their parent, let alone hear an adult do it? Put yourself in a child’s position. Imagine what it must feel like if the adult making such comments about your mom or dad is a grandparent, sibling, aunt, uncle, or other relative, friend of the family, or authority figure—or worse, the other parent or his or her new significant other.

In a nutshell, if you don’t have anything positive to say, say nothing at all.

You can’t unstrike a match.

THINGS MOMS AND DADS NEED TO KNOW Every year, more than a million children in the United States experience the divorce or breakup of their parents.

Whether you’re married or not, the process and trauma children who are part of this relationship experience from this breakup has typically begun long before you thought about separating. If you’re indecisive about breaking up or getting a divorce, please take a close look at what the struggle is doing to your children. To a child, the family unit is one being. Think of it in these terms: If you severe any body part, doesn’t it hurt the rest of the body.

Whatever their age, they are aware that something is wrong. Depending on how long you drag it out, parental disagreements, anger, fighting, and stress tend to worsen throughout the breakup process. For the sake of yourself and your children, it’s very important that you resolve your situation decisively, with as much damage control as possible with respect to the children. Procrastination is an ally to no one; hesitation only prolongs the effects that breaking up and divorce have on children. www.

Although it is an ugly subject, chil- ready strained relationship. dren and dysfunctional relationships is Triangulation occurs in three ways: something that we must address. Before • Custodial parent vs. noncustodial we begin the process of dismantling this parent relationship, let’s learn to minimize the • Parents manipulating their signifidamage that it may have on any child. cant other via the child Done right, what seems to be a curse • Child manipulating all parties inwill transform into a blessing if you do volved to facilitate his or her will something to minimize the collateral effects.

In any case, this happens because Children end up in the midst of a of an absence of a mutual child-raising fractured relationship in three ways: strategy. At times, triangulation is the • Birthed: You and your ex are the result of a parent’s using a child as a weapon to impede a healthy relationadopted or biological parents. ship from being formed with the non• Grafted: Stepchildren are involved. biological parent. But typically, this is • Blended: You have a child and so the result of either the child’s manipulating the custodial parent or one or does your ex. both parents’ using the child as an exIn any of these cases, the subject of cuse for hidden agendas. The best way our discussion is how the things that af- to prevent this, or to minimize current fect you affect them. Typically children damage, is to have an in-depth discusfit into one or two categories: Current sion about your parenting styles, disvictims of divorce, or future catalyst close existent behavioral problems (infor, divorce. Children born into an un- cluding any developmental, emotional, healthy relationship are truly victims or psychological conditions that may of two immature people leaping before be contributing to family stress), and looking. On the other hand, some kids be honest concerning any child-parent are the catalyst for the destruction of a issues. Engaging these conversations good relationship. What that means is early can prevent a breakup, or in your that parenting differences, ex spouses, case, put a stop to your remaining in or ex in-laws, and/or strained finances can getting into a doomed relationship. If damage yours and your children’s secu- you need help contact relationship exrity. At the other extreme, children can pert D Ivan Young. manipulate the vulnerabilities of an al-

Advertise today in D-MARS Business Journal Call US TODAY! 713.272.9511 42.

Breaking up the Assets is Hard to Do: The Financial Side of Divorce Couples who decide to divorce must looks like. What will be your lifedeal with the daunting task of dismanstyle beyond the divorce proceedtling a life that was once a partnership. ings? How will the divorce affect inThe emotional upheaval is intense, as come? Will the former stay-at-home both parties must create their own indispouse get a job? If so, what is the vidual lives again. salary and benefits? Where do child But an important step in the divorce support and alimony fit into both process is dividing the assets between individuals’ scenario? It is worth the two parties. What was once ‘ours’ thinking about these issues now, must now become ‘yours’ and ‘mine,’ even if the actual numbers are only and it’s a process that can be painful in estimates. its own right. If you are preparing for a divorce, there are important steps you Your changing insurance needs need to take to ensure that the assets are When couples split, each person’s divided properly. insurance needs change immediately.

Whether you carried the lion’s share of Who should be involved? insurance policies, or you were the benLet’s start with the obvious answer eficiary of your spouse’s policies, you – lawyers. It’s critical that lawyers are need to make changes. involved, especially when the individuals are in conflict. In addition, many • Health insurance. If you will no longer be covered by your spouse’s people benefit from enlisting the help health insurance, you will need to of a financial advisor who can help sort find your own plan, either through out the complexities of splitting joint an employer or another source. You assets. will need to work out which of you will carry health insurance for your Getting started children as well.

Sorting through the financial side of a divorce should happen right away. • Life insurance. You may no longer want to list your former spouse as a This is important because once the dibeneficiary of a life insurance policy; vorce is finalized; making changes to on the other hand, if you were the the financial settlement is extremely beneficiary and will not be going difficult. Here are some important iniforward, you will also need to extial steps: plore your own life insurance needs.

Individuals who will be receiving 1) Find out what your joint assets are. alimony or child support payments Any assets you’ve accumulated while might also consider taking out a life married are joint assets, at least in insurance policy on their former most states. This includes the obvispouse to ensure they can continue ous -- homes, autos, boats, jewelry – to receive that money if the exbut also includes business interests, spouse passes away. retirement savings, investments, cash, bank accounts, and anything of value like antiques. Make sure all • Other insurance needs. Long-term care and disability insurance may asset values are in writing. be more important to both parties, now that each is running a house2) Do the same with liabilities. Any hold solo. Auto and home insurance debt including mortgages, car or will now be up to each individual as boat loans, tax liabilities and/or well, so be sure to find the right polpenalties should be disclosed and icy for your new situation. tracked.

a crash course in the basics – and soon.

Take a class in basic money management, work out a budget for your new life and (here’s the hard part) stick to it.

As you embark on your own separate path, this is a skill you will need, and you won’t have anyone else to handle it for you.

Brokerage, investment and financial advisory services are made available through Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA and SIPC. Some products and services may not be available in all jurisdictions or to all clients. © 2010 Ameriprise Financial, Inc. All rights reserved.

File # 103655

3) Create a new budget. Each party • Other documents. You will also need to update key documents like should determine their financial wills and living wills. They can be needs for their life after the divorce. rewritten or you can create entirely Don’t overlook items that were once new ones that reflect both your shared like health or life insurance wishes and the current state of your premiums. Use your best estimates household. if actual costs are unknown. This is an important step that will influence the way in which the assets are di- Your financial know-how vided.

If your spouse always handled the checkbook and the budget, you’ll need 4) Explore what the long-term picture march 2011

www.

43.

Calling Old-School Mentors to

Get Involved NOW!

Dr. D. L. Jones Contributiing Writer It has been said that this generation is the most ignored, misunderstood, and disheartened generation our country has seen in a long time. No one can truly define who belongs to what some call “Generation X.” Although this Generation X appears to be the accepted term, other labels have been applied such as hip hop or pop culture.

One of the most fundamental requirements for effective mentoring is the ability to understand others’ motives, values, and goals, not enforcing one’s own on others. A slight variation of the Golden Rule-instead of “treating others as you want to be treated,” mentors should “treat others as they want to be treated.” This means understanding, and accepting, that people are all different. It also means that there is no “script” for mentoring - it is different for every person you mentor.

The need to understand differences is especially apparent in the ongoing conflict between the former generations and Generation X. These struggles are rooted in the desire (on both sides) to want everyone to be alike. This would certainly make our lives and relationships easier, but it is not based in reality.

Of course, clashes between generations are not new. Remember the generation gap in the 1960s between the hippy generation and the onset of the disco era in the 1970s?

The fact remains that Generation X are the employees that are entering the workforce today; they are the march 2011

future. They aren’t going away, nor are they likely to conform to the previous generation’s definition of work. Former generations cannot continue to ignore their differences and try to manage them according to their own mindset. This does not mean agreement with this generation style of dress, attitude and lingo, but understanding them to make mentoring easier.

The better you know them, the more likely you are to have insight to their likes and dislikes. And, at the very best, understanding them may begin to remove the conflict and hostility that exists between the generations and will lead to positive actions and results that are mutually beneficial to the mentor and mentee.

The problem with generalizations is that they only go so far and stereotyping runs the risk of alienation. There are always exceptions to the rule, those who will say “that’s not me”. I can identify with my generation and sometimes with the hip hop generation. It is impossible to suggest a prototype for how to mentor 46-85 million hip hop youth of today. To successfully mentor and help Generation X, we must learn what they want, how they feel, and how they view their world.

What Doesn’t Work?

Generation X won’t do things because they have a deep sense of mission, or loyalty to an organization. They have nothing but disdain for corporate politics and bureaucracy and don’t trust any institution. They grew up watching their parents turn into workaholics, only to be downsized and restructured out of their chosen careers (layman terms – FIRED). They believe work is a thing you do to have a life (work doesn’t define their life).

This present generation has no expectation of job security, so they tend to see every job as temporary and every company as a stepping stone to something better, or at least to something else. They have been accused of not wanting to pay their dues. But, in todays changing workplace, anyone who is thinking about doing a job long www.

enough to pay dues is out of touch!

Because they won’t put in long hours at what they mostly term “dead end” jobs and they don’t exhibit the same loyalty as the former generations do towards an organization, they have been called slackers. However, this generation will work very hard for a job that they believe in, for something that challenges them.

meetings. They want to get in, do the work, and move on to the next thing.

If you’re looking for someone to deliver a report every week, you don’t want a hip hop generation student. I recently wrote a book entitled “Dealing with Relatives in The Church;” A literary work on understanding how the church can better relate and help the hip hop generation. In this book I go into great detail about the cultural influences the hip hop generation has on the church What does work?

Although there doesn’t seem to be and the talents and values that go unapone description of Generation X, most preciated. will agree that a defining characteristic is that they don’t like to be character- CONCLUSION ized (as I’m doing in this article!). They The characteristics for which this don’t want to be treated as a single en- generation has received such bad press tity, but want to be looked at as individ- are the very qualities that make them uals. In addition, this is the first wave valuable. We say we want an empowof latchkey kids to hit the work force. ered work force...give this generation They are homesick for the home they the ball and they will run with it...we never had (due to both parents work- want a self-directed work force...these ing). Their focus on relationships over workers have been self directed from achievement is what leads the former a very young age...we want computer generations to complain about their la- literacy...the hip hop generation comes ziness. Isn’t this strong sense of commu- out on top. nity and personal relationships in the Generation X will respond to old workplace just what we need? school mentors if they put meaning, This generation has sometimes into the buzzwords they use such as; been called the MTV/BET Generation empowerment, teamwork and commubecause of their short attention span. nication. Create an environment where They want new challenges and the op- they are challenged by and enjoy their portunity to build new skills. Training work, where they’re measured on peris one of the best motivators. They have formance rather than on which clothes a tremendous capacity to process lots they wear, where they are informed, inof information and excellent at multi- cluded and recognized. Once we (old tasking. school mentors) do that, we will see They don’t want to spend a lot of that they aren’t much different than we time talking about things or having were at their age.

44.

THE EXPERT NETWORK

march 2011

www.

45.

Proud to be Opportunistic!

By Author Noel Pinnock, B.S., M.P.A., C.A., CCC Contributing Writer Opportunity is at the core of our existence. If our forefathers/mothers did not leverage the opportunity to explore the great seas in search of a better tomorrow, then we would probably not have an America today. Likewise, if it

were not for my teachers of opportunity (i.e. spouse, parents, teachers, counselors, etc.) in my life then I would not be the man that I am today. Now do NOT get me wrong, I have failed, floundered, and faltered. I have not made the best of every opportunity. Like you, I am human and to err is human; however, this truism should not represent a business case NOT to get out there and grab opportunity by the horn and take the journey of success. In the midst of uncertainty and a sea of ambiguity, be encouraged that the best of life is yet to come. Joel Osteen wrote in his recent book, It’s Your Time, “Your best days (opportunities) are in front of you and not behind you.

God will not let you go through more than you can handle. If you have a big challenge that is standing in your way of opportunity that just means you have a bigger destiny. Extraordinary people face extraordinary difficulties. But the good news is we serve an extraordinary

Taking Charge of Your Destiny!

God...In tough times you’ve got to draw the line in the sand. This difficulty will not bury me. This loss, this disappointment, this injustice, will not cause me to give up on my opportunities and dreams. I refuse to live in self-pity. I know I am a seed. That means I cannot be buried. I can only be planted. I may be down but it is only temporary. I’m not only coming back; I will come back better than I was before.”

Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, young and old, it is never too late.

For every setback, God has a predestined comeback but we have to be open and attentive because opportunity may not knock on your door or simply show up on your doorstep, especially if you are not proud to be a life-long student of opportunity. Remember, accomplishing anything requires discipline... deliberate, determined, definable action with a clear goal in mind.

Emma Lazarus wrote an applicable poem that is inscribed on our nation’s icon of opportunity and freedom, the Statue of Liberty…it reads: “Not like the brazen giant of Greek fame, With conquering limbs astride from land to land; Here at our sea-washed, sunset gates shall stand A mighty woman with a torch,

whose flame Is the imprisoned lightning, and her name Mother of Exiles. From her beacon-hand Glows world-wide welcome; her mild eyes command The air-bridged harbor that twin cities frame.

“Keep, ancient lands, your storied pomp!” cries she With silent lips. “Give me your tired, your poor, Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free, The wretched refuse of your teeming shore.

Send these, the homeless, tempesttossed to me, I lift my lamp beside the golden door!”

Opportunity may not knock but that should not stop us from knocking on the door of opportunity and once we have gone through the door, let us remove the hinges and the door, leave the light on, and prime the pump so that it will not be as difficult for others to enter. We are the lamp of opportunity for our present and future and that’s why I am proud to be opportunistic everyday…how about you?

By Maria Taylor, MBA MNA Accounting Services President/CEO

Taking Charge of Your Destiny!

We always hear the cliché that “life is what you make of it.” This statement is true. If you want to change where you are then you have to do something to work toward where you want to be years from now. One of the biggest hindrances is procrastination; this one word that has kept many from pursuing their dreams by putting off actions to tomorrow and tomorrow never fulfill it. The next word is fear; fear of the unknown keeps you from stepping out into unchartered territory. The next word is rejection; we all want to feel that our dreams are worth something and therefore before someone rejects us, we won’t pursue our dreams.

Now that all of those negatives are out of the way, we can now focus on How to take charge of your destiny! No matter what your situation may currently be, you can change it! march 2011

• It starts with having a made up mind to take charge of your destiny.

• Chart a course to your destiny. If it is going back to school to pursue a degree or opening up your own business or taking self-inventory to make some changes that would make you a better person.

• Research the best way of acquiring your goals.

• Surround yourself with individuals that are successful.

• TAKE CHARGE OF YOUR DESTINY!

Sign Up on Our Online Mailing List @ d-mars.com

713.272.9511 www.

46.

THE EXPERT NETWORK

march 2011

www.

47.