d-mars.com Business Journal 55 by d-mars.com

Business Journal oct. - nov. 15, 2011

55TH Edition

Inspire, Inform & Educate

Community Involvement: Doing Your Part

INSIDE

The Impact of Giving Back By Dr. Wendy Johnson This selfless act of kindness is nothing new, as it has been around for generations. PAGE 9

Paula Harris Trustee in District IV

Giving Back = Doing Your Part By Noel Pinnock

Carroll G. Robinson for HCC Trustee, IV

Reciprocity has known synonyms such as cooperation, exchange, mutuality, or interchange. PAGE 17

Planned Giving Provides All-around Benefits

REVEREND WILLIAM “BILL” LAWSON & LAURIE ROBINSON FOR HOUSTON CITY COUNCIL AT LARGE POSITION 5

Kevin Simms Candidate for Mayor

“Nobody will ever deprive the American people of the right to vote except the American people themselves and the only way they could do this is by not voting.” - Franklin D. Roosevelt

By Crawford McGill A little planning can make charitable donations go a long way. PAGE 17

Roslyn “Rozzy” Shorter for City Council At-Large Position 2

Stephen C. Costello for City Council At-Large Position 1

Michael Coleman for Harris County Constable Precint 7

Phillip Paul Bryant for City Council District B

Jolanda “Jo” Jones for City Council At-Large Position 5

Wanda Adams for City Council District D

Alvin Byrd for City Council District B

David Robinson for City Council At-Large Position 2

Kathy Blueford Daniels for City Council District B

Scott Boates for City Council At-Large Position 1

7 Proven Tools that Increase Marketing Response for Community & Nonprofit Events By Stephanie Meacham Give them something to help them remember this special day.

PAGE 29

October - November 15, 2011

Behind The

Journal

Publisher’s Message

Keith J. Davis, Sr.

SR. PUBLISHER Keith J. Davis, Sr. VICE PRESIDENT Kevin Davis EDITING CONSULTANT Sharon Jenkins OPERATIONS COORDINATOR Stephanie Myers ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT Abbey Rodriguez

The theme for this month’s journal is “Community Involvement: Doing Your Part.” In this month’s issue we are also focusing on local candidates running for office and people getting involved in the community. I feel that it is imperative that our readers are informed. One of my favorite quotes from Barbara Boxer is “I am sure that every one of my colleagues - Democrat, Republican, and Independent - agrees with that statement. That in the voting booth, every one is equal.” You have a responsibility to “self ” to vote. If not, then you are denying yourself the opportunity to live in a better society and refusing to exercise your blood bought right to do so. As always, 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.

ACCOUNTING MANAGER Eugenie Doualla

CONTENTS

SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Mike Jones C.T. Foster Pastor Freddie L. Davis, III Dwight Jones Eric D. Goodwine

Laurie Robinson for Houston City Council At-Large Position 5………………...................... 4 Kathy Ballard – Blueford Daniels for City Council District B Candidate................................ 6 Roslyn “Rozzy” Shorter, Up Close and Personal…………………………………………......... 6 Keep it Simple, Simply Simms Vote Kevin Simms for Mayor, City of Houston……............. 9 Businesses that Give Back are Successful!.......................................................................... 9 The Impact of Giving Back………………………………………………………….................... 9 A Houston Delegation Visits the Capitol City of Ghana, Accra……...................................... 10 Our Community! Our Time!!!.................................................................................................. 13 Voting Rights Act……………………………………………………………………………........... 15 Giving Back = Doing Your Part………………………………………………………................... 15 Planned Giving Provides All-around Benefits……………………........................................... 17 The Vita-Doc; Healing the Community Naturally……………………...................................... 19 FBAAD of Arts and Dance, Celebrating 5 Years………………………................................... 21 Reel Life, Real Business: Staying Viable in a Changing Market…........................................ 22 Community Reinvestment into Lives…………………………………….................................. 22 Doing Your Part…………………………………………………………...................................... 24 This Article Will Not Be Televised!......................................................................................... 25 Trevian Mathis “It’s A Family Affair”…………………………………........................................ 26 Buffalo Soldiers National Museum’s Wheel’s Exhibit – The Briefing…................................. 28 5 Ways to Immediately Connect with a New Community…................................................. 29 7 Proven Tools that Increase Marketing Response for Community & Nonprofit Events....... 29 Sylvester Turner A Roast & Toast Evening…………………………………………................... 30

PHOTOGRAPHY L.C. Poullard Grady Carter MARKETING CONSULTANT Johnny Ray Davis, Jr. Barbara Wiederhold MULTIMEDIA DIRECTOR Andrea Hennekes LAYOUT & GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Ghuzzala Malik (Faith) Michael J. Martinez DISTRIBUTION Booker T. Davis, Jr. Johnny Ray Davis, Jr. Rockie Hayden CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Sharon Jenkins Maria Taylor Dr. Wendy Johnson Val Thompson Phillip Paul Bryant John Simkin Noel Pinnock Crawford McGill Tamyra Comeaux Darryl Samuels Charlotte Jackson Quintin Wiggins Dr. D. L. Jones Burl Washington Vivian Banta Stephanie Meacham

MR. D-MARS Tip of the Month

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October - November 15, 2011

Laurie Robinson, The “Empower the People” Candidate for Houston City Council At-Large Position 5 By Sharon C. Jenkins, Contributing Writer

makeup, because I think with Houston being a kind of melting pot for all of Texas, we need all kinds of people giving good advice, when we come up with a decision about something. When we do that we come up with a best researched and studied solution. My best dream team would be diverse in ethnicity, gender, and age. d-mars.com Reporter: In order to let our readership know you, I’m going to ask the next question. How would your best friends describe you?

The goal of many leaders is to get people to think more highly of the leader. The goal of a great leader is to help people to think more highly of themselves. ~ J. Carla Nortcutt

Laurie Robinson is a woman fueled by her passion for people. Not just a particular ethnicity or culture, but all people who make up this beautiful diverse city we call Houston. Our reporter, Sharon C. Jenkins had the opportunity to interview Robinson for this editorial and we are sharing her responses below. Get to know Robinson and what she stands for; she joined this race after working with the City of Houston for six years. She understands its heartbeat and has a keen desire to see Houston and its citizens fiscally whole. d-mars.com Reporter: What does the ideal public servant look like to you? Robinson: The ideal public servant can collaboratively work with all kinds of people, no matter if they are in business, no matter if they are politicians, no matter if they are civic leaders or if they are just a common man or woman on the street. We have to be able to relate to all people, in all circumstances. d-mars.com Reporter: How does one do that? Robinson: The power to

do that comes from life experiences. We learn a lot about ourselves. We learn a lot about people. We learn to move within different cultures and different ethnic backgrounds and socio-economic backgrounds. I think that it is very important for a public leader to be able to move within those communities because when you have a big ethnically diverse city like Houston and we also have a huge diversity amongst industries in Houston; it’s very important to have a pulse on what’s going on in the city. If we don’t we can become fractured. I think it’s important that a person in public office be able to move effectively within all communities, so that we can all come together to solve the problems this city faces. d-mars.com Reporter: Why are you the best candidate for the job? Robinson: I am the best candidate because I have a proven track record. I’ve created over 400 jobs in the Houston market. I have experience in the City of Houston in all of the departments, from a financial perspective to help maintain

fiscal responsibility. I have a passion for public service and now is the time for me to go out there and help as many people as I can. d-mars.com Reporter: If elected, what will your political dream team look like? Robinson: I would place experts in various areas on my team. I don’t pretend to know everything in all areas. Throughout my career, I’ve always surrounded myself with people who know more than I know, so

that we can actually create an innovative solution and implement it, so that we help all kinds of people. I think my dream team of people will be people from different backgrounds, a diverse group of people, diverse in age, diverse in gender, diverse in racial

Robinson: My best friends would describe me as caring, compassionate, in tune with what’s going on in the world globally, open considerate and I think “smart.” d-mars.com Reporter: What are some of your “power points” for this campaign? Contracting with the City of Houston Robinson: I want to make sure that we are all included. There are a lot of things going on in the City of Houston that excludes certain people, and one of the reasons why I’m running is because I want to see it be more inclusive. With all of the things going on in Houston, I’d like for there to be more opportunities for a lot of “different” people. One thing that I’ve always done in my career and what I’ll take to the council is my ability to work with women owned small businesses and also with large businesses. It is my desire that they both basically work together to come up with solutions for the city, where it’s not just all the big companies getting all the contracts, but the larger companies can work with the small women-owned and minority-owned businesses to actually help mentor these companies. So that they learn something on these projects to better equip them to eventually become strong enough to become their competitors.

That was one of the reasons why I decided to run. With Rebuild Houston the city is requiring that engineering companies have a 24% set aside. They often say that they cannot find a minority company that meets the contract specifications. I think a company must look at a way to make it work for small businesses. There is always a way to fulfill the set aside. Find a part of the project that you can find a minority business to fulfill and mentor them to a successful completion.

furloughs and eliminating budgetary problems. We need to take a look at the city budget and fix any budgetary problems after examining these processes. Seniors and People With Disabilities

Robinson: I have been working with the City of Houston for six years. I would make sure that programs are working in city

Robinson: I’ve been working in that arena for 20 years with Medicare and Medicaid in the policy area, trying to ensure that it’s fair and equitable and that it’s being used to meet the genuine needs of our people. I’ve been fighting to make sure that Medicaid and Medicare has funding and that there is no fraudulent usage in the Medicaid system. I’ve also been working with seniors and people with disabilities to make sure that they have

departments and that the taxpayer’s money is not being wasted. I would go back and look at processes and determine if there is a better way to do it. My belief is that if each department looks inside and sees where they can implement new technology and identify duplicate processes or identify departments that may be duplicating processes, than they can move these workers into other areas. Maybe we could restructure, reorganize each of these departments and cutout any kind of waste, therefore possibly eliminating future layoffs and

the access and quality of services necessary. As the federal government starts talking about cutting fees for these services, we need to better understand how this will affect us on a local level. Because once the federal government starts cutting these fees, people will start going to local health and city clinics. These clinics are already full of uninsured people, so as they start cutting these programs we’ve got to realize this is going to affect our city health care system. We will have more and more people going to the emergency room that are under-

City Governance

October - November 15, 2011

insured and uninsured. We really have a hard time supporting this population as it is right now, we need to better prepare for the inevitable increase in the future. I believe that we need to consider the least of us, and the elderly to make sure that they are safe, secure and stable with any program we might use.

give them an even greater tax break for a number of years. I think when we talk about economic development; we have to consider economic development

As a principal with Houston-based MFR Solutions, Laurie is a regulatory compliance expert who advises healthcare corporations and federal, state, and local governments. Currently head of the firm’s consulting and advisory services practice, Laurie manages more than 72 employees in Houston, New Orleans, and Washington, D.C. She has more than 20 years of experience in

for each neighborhood, not just Downtown or the Galleria area. We have to think about areas such as Acres Homes, Sunny Side, and the Northside over by Bush Intercontinental Airport and by Hobby Airport. These areas need an economic base and need to be employed, but not just that, I’d like to see a cross section of people, not just young people or college educated people but the people who are an adequate representation of first the neighborhoods and then the people in them.

healthcare program policy development, regulatory compliance, internal audit, risk assessment, and project management through escalating positions with law firms, insurance companies, consulting firms and a federal public sector agency. The audits and operational assessments that Laurie conducts have led her public-sector clients, including the City of Houston, to discover millions of dollars in cost savings or recoverable expenditures. To Houston City Council, she would bring

Economic Development Robinson: As we start creating jobs and bringing businesses here, what I would like to see for economic development is a group of people: civic leaders, business leaders, and academic people go and recruit companies to come to Houston. It doesn’t matter if jobs come from Fortune 500 companies or Central or Latin America, we want to see them come to Houston to set up their base operations. I would like to see these companies consider moving into areas that need to be revitalized. We can provide these businesses with tax incentives, such as breaks on rent, if they hire low income people in the area, people with disabilities, or hire seniors. Perhaps

skilled collaboration. When Laurie worked in the Department of Health and Human Services, she conducted policy activities on the Inspector General’s behalf and provided technical assistance to Congressional committees that drew from both sides of the aisle. She bridged gaps and built consensus among conservatives, liberals, moderates, and progressives, an ability needed locally if Houstonians of diverse backgrounds and races are to agree on ways to push their city into greater prosperity. Laurie is passionate

about growing Houston’s small businesses and enticing international corporations to expand or relocate to Houston. Because she

runs a privatesector business that works with federal, state, and local governments, Laurie has seen firsthand that when public-private partnerships are encouraged, they are key to increasing government revenues and assisting companies to grow. For all her seasoned business experience, Laurie points to earlier places in her story for additional reasons she wants to serve on City Council. Laurie and her sister were raised by their mother, a divorced teenager who took her daughters to college with her. The public assistance they received -- food stamps, housing subsidies, etc., -- was never a source of shame to Laurie but an example of how assistance programs should work, giving struggling families the help they need until they can stand on their own. Because young Laurie spent many afternoons with her grandmother, a maid at a Veterans Administration hospital, she developed an affinity for the hospital setting. Her interest bloomed in healthcare and tracking healthcare laws and regulations which blossomed into a career choice as a legislative and regulatory analyst in the healthcare arena. Laurie traces her passion for seniors’ issues, Medicare, Medicaid, and other

Reverend William “Bill” Lawson Endorses Laurie Robinson for Houston City Council - At Large Position 5, Praises Strong Background and Ability

Reverend William A. “Bill” Lawson, founding pastor of Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church, has endorsed Laurie Robinson for Houston City Council At-Large Position 5. Lawson praised Robinson for

her leadership, business credentials, and ability to respond to people of all backgrounds. “I am endorsing Ms. Laurie Robinson as a candidate for Houston City Council At-Large Position

Five. I view the governance of the City of Houston as a big business serving the needs of over 2 million people. Big business does not always serve the needs of people - Houston has to.” Ms. Robinson has a

strong background in both business management and in responding to people of all backgrounds and all economic levels. She has worked in government, in finance, and in human services. At this time in Hou-

ston’s economic climate, we need persons in City leadership who have strong business backgrounds, who are sensitive to the multiplicity of the sub-communities of our city, and who can work with other

entitlement programs back to afternoons spent in the VA hospital with her grandmother, making sure seniors and disabled veteran people had what they needed. While a college internship in the newsroom fueled her interest in politics, her real draw to government is the fact that as an elected official she could help people through the development of policy. From her early fascination with policy and programs to her decades of solid business experience in the public and private sectors, Laurie Robinson is distinctly equipped with strengths, skills, and passions that make her the compelling candidate for City Council At-Large Position 5. Degrees -MBA from University of St. Thomas in Houston -BA from University of North Texas in Denton -Post-baccalaureate certificate in advanced legal studies

Council members and the Mayor in the necessary give and take of a Strong Mayor form of government. I believe Ms. Robinson has such credentials, and will make a good team member among the other members of the Council”. – William A. “Bill” Lawson “Reverend Lawson is an honored leader, a man of faith, and is a driving force in bringing all of Houston together, and I am honored to have his endorsement.” Robinson said. “We both believe that in this tough economic environment, leaders must be accountable and work together to make smart and actionable decision on the important issues that matter to Houstonians.”

October - November 15, 2011

Kathy Ballard-

Blueford Daniels, City Council District B Candidate, Community Advocate

athy Ballard-Blueford Daniels is a candidate for City Council, District B. A resident of 5th Ward, she graduated from Phyllis Wheatley High School. After graduation, she pursued Nursing at Houston Community College, and studied Accounting/Bookkeeping, at Massey Business College. While attending Nursing School, she began employment with the U. S. Postal Service after weighing her salary options as a single mother of two at that time. During her 27 year career with the Postal Service she was a supervisor and served in numerous managerial positions before retiring in 2008. She is married to Joe Daniels and has two daughters, Alondria, & Jonitra, is a grandmother to five, a lifelong resident of District B, and servant in the community. She is a member of Greater True Vine Baptist Church (GTV); under the leadership of Reverend Matthew R. Alix, Sr. She is in the GTV Choir, Education Council and Pastor’s Aid Committee, President. She is also an active member of the NAACP, Houston Chapter, Houston Black American Democrats, 5th Ward Super Neighborhood and Founder of BLAC MoM (Black, Latino, Asian, Caucasian ~ Mourners of Murder). BLAC MoM was established as a support group, after the senseless murder of her 20 yr. old son, Patrick Charles Murphy. In 2006, when her son was murdered, GTV had recently returned from the National Baptist Congress where Patrick participated and was an original member of the Fearless Followers for Christ Drill Team (3FC), under the leadership of Rev. H. Lee Davidson, Sr.

The core of her personal belief system that propels her desire to serve the constituents of District D is her belief in servant leadership. Daniels stated that, “Our communities need someone like me who is faith-based, exemplifies honesty, integrity, commitment, has a true heart of servitude, accessible, transparent, and has a genuine concern and passion for people. I have been blessed with the gift of a great husband (Joe), successful and beautiful children (Alondria, Patrick & Jonitra), of which one was a mother’s, ultimate sacrifice.” Her civic accomplishments have also included being instrumental in having storm ditches excavated in a neighborhood where they were nonexistent. When elected to City Council, District B she will, with the help of the people: Take a “Go Back to Basics” Approach by: • Promoting Economic Development, and seek employment and training opportunities for Constituents in District B • Provide open door policy to Council member • Attend & Promote ~ Community outreach Meetings • Address continued Infrastructure Negligence (Streets, Buildings, etc) • Encourage Law Enforcement presence & Neighborhood Watch • Be a Voice for Renew Houston to address Community Improvements • Encourage Business Partnership for Educational tools She would appreciate your support in allowing her the opportunity to serve and represent the community as a City Councilmember for District B, A Voice for ALL People, because: Together….. We Can! “I am number three on the ballot for District B – Trinity: Father, Son & Holy Spirit!” Kathy Blueford Daniels have received the endorsements of the following individuals: Honorable Mayor Lee P. Brown, Honorable Carol Mims Galloway, Rev. Matthew R. Alix, Sr., Rev. S. Compton, Rev. Willie T. Jones, Rev. L. C. Sidnesy, Sr. and Rev. H. Lee Davidson.

Roslyn “Rozzy” Shorter, Up Close and Personal By Sharon C. Jenkins, Contributing Writer

“I love our city of Houston and the Great State of Texas. It is where I grew up, where I was educated, and where I cast my first vote...” Roslyn “Rozzy” Shorter was taught political engagement from an early age. As a child she volunteered to support her “super” who was president of the Civics Club and in her teens when a neighbor who ran for city council needed help, she was first in line. Her zeal for helping people and being a person of influence are great characteristics for a political candidate. Her Houston

a viable voice for the people. Political and community leaders began to suggest that she run for office. Shorter served as the Chair of Operations and Logistics for Senate District 13 Convention. She is currently running for City Council, At Large – Position 2. Her deep passion for this city and its constituents fuels her desire to attract more businesses to Houston, create new jobs to combat the staggering unemployment rate, and promote a stronger sustainable economy for its residents. When asked what else was on her political agenda, was running for governor or president in her political crystal ball? She said that running for governor would be difficult because she is a Democrat and Texas is a Republican state, but it was doable. She definitely would not mind being the first African American female Governor of the State of Texas. The next round on her political ladder would be state representative if she is elected to the Houston City Council.

Rallying on behalf of The Children’s Defense Fund for Health Care.

and its people. She has also developed relationships with political allies in other U.S. cities and will bring their best practices back to strengthen Houston if elected. It’s in her nature to keep others informed of what their rights are in the state of Texas. Locally, you can find Rozzy Shorter

off of a major freeway. She strategically had it posted in her old neighborhood so that the youth in her community could see a positive role model being a vehicle for change in their city. Shorter describes herself as TRUSTWORTHY, DEPENDABLE, COMPETENT, TRANSPAR-

Rozzy 4 Houston City Council At-Large Position 2 is gaining more support from Essential Service Employees. Officer Barnes from Metro Police has pledge his support.

City of Houston Dept of Public Works Employee has pledged his vote along with his entire office.

track record includes being a kingpin in the Obama campaign. Her undeniable belief in the triumph of the human spirit is the catalyst behind her contagious “Yes We Can!” mantra. When Shorter started to flex her political muscles in support of political candidates behind the scenes, it was evident that she had the potential to stand in the political limelight herself as

“The diversity of Houston is its strength. I look forward to bridging our cultural gaps and working to strengthen the bonds that bring unity to our great city.” She is a universal citizen, because she travels the world, but her heart belongs to her native city

at churches, community functions, and at children advocacy events informing, educating, and inspiring her fellow citizens to participate in making Houston great. She is also an advocate for children, she is the co-chair of the Houston CARES Mentoring Movement, and is a volunteer for the Children’s Defense Fund Freedom School. She is the first African American female in the history of Houston city politics to post a billboard

ENT, AND A CANDIDATE WITH DRIVE AND INTEGRITY. Her fellow citizens echo these sentiments with capital letters, but they are not her only fans, Susan L. Taylor, former editor-in-chief of Essence Magazine can be added to that list. She told Shorter, “I need for you to dream big.” Well she is and she promises that Houston will be the better for it if she is elected to the city council. Why? As in the words of this political maverick, “I believe in Houston!”

Vote Nov. 8 for

Roslyn “Rozzy” Shorter HOUSTON CITY COUNCIL, AT-LARGE

POSITION 2

October - November 15, 2011

Keep it Simple, Simply Simms Vote Kevin Simms for Mayor, City of Houston

r. Kevin Simms is running for Mayor of the City of Houston. He has had various leadership positions throughout his career: he has been a championship winning coach, non-profit executive, college professor and a political attaché for Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee. About the man: Dr. Kevin Simms was born in Miami Beach, Florida. He graduated third in his class in a senior class of 1200 students. Dr. Simms accepted a football and basketball scholarship to attend the University of Alabama to play for Coach Paul “Bear” Bryant. Dr. Simms graduated with a BA degree from Stillman College in 1982. He attended Jackson State University in 1982, and received his Master’s degree in nine months majoring in Health and Physical Education. Dr. Simms then began a coaching ca-

reer, coaching basketball at Stillman College. He was accepted in the PhD program at Kansas State University in 1988. Dr. Simms studied business and multicultural education and in just two years he graduated with a PhD degree in 1990. Dr. Simms has published many articles, and wrote 400 million dollars in grant funding. He has presented at many workshops and has been the keynote speaker in many conferences. He is a member of Phi Beta Kappa, and is married to Dr. Willetta Simms, a tenured professor in Biology at Azusa Pacific University. They have a son, Kevin Jr., and a daughter Kalyn Simms. He is a member of Pilgrim Rest Missionary Baptist Church. His platform: Dr. Simms states: “The reason I am running for the Mayor of the City of Houston is because the city had ever increasing record revenues from prop-

erty taxes and sales taxes. Also according to a report by Citizens for Public Accountability by a C.P.A. Group headed up by Aubrey Farb, Earl Lairson, Tom Roberts, and Bob Lemer, presented to the Greater Houston Partnership on July, 2010, Houston is currently 1.7 Billion dollars in debt. From 2004-2009, Houston was another 313 million dollars in debt. The pension fund for both the police officers and fire fighters will be dissolved in two years. The tax base for Houston citizens will rise in sales and property taxes. A good bit of the losses were connected to the totally unsustainable em-

ployee pension plans. The total pension plan expense was about $2.1 billion for fiscal years 2004-2010. So what this says is that even if the City had ZERO pension expense (i. e., no pension plans existed) the best the City could have done in these all-time record revenue years was about break even. So it is patently clear the City has a built in structural expense problem, even after the City’s recent staff reductions. Houston’s $1.7 billion of operating losses is incredibly worse than the operating results of the rest of Texas’ 10 largest cities. But the $1.7 billion of operating losses is really staggering when compared to the operating results of the larger cities in the essentially bankrupt State of California. We need new leadership and we have to think outside of the box in bringing new revenues to Houston. We need a relationship with the Obama Administration and Congress. As District Director for Congresswomen Sheila Jackson Lee, I developed positive relationships in Washington that will bring billions of dollars to Houston. I know I will be successful as Houston’s Mayor to eliminate Houston fiscal dilemma. Please vote for me Kevin Simms for Mayor, City of Houston.”

The Impact of Giving Back

By Dr. Wendy Johnson Contributing Writer www.drwendyjohnson.com

eing a successful entrepreneur is a great accomplishment. It gives you the opportunity to execute your passion and follow your dreams, however it means nothing if you do not make the time to GIVE BACK! Community service comes in various facets as there are organizations that

Businesses that Give Back are Successful!

By Maria Taylor, Owner / MNA Accounting Services Businesses that give back are successful because of their ability to look beyond making profits to the benefit of making an impact on the next generation. Aligning your business with biblical principles are another way to become successful. There is a biblical principle of sowing and reaping that refers to your giving money, time and sharing your talents with local non-profits, charities, and academic organizations.

We are giving back when we can help our clients and others with our knowledge, through one-on-one consultations, through social media network blogs, various business group blogs, business newsletters, business journals and company informational websites; We are giving back when we volunteer for nonprofit organizations that you believe are viable charities. Connect to the decisionmakers of the charity; introduce yourself and facets of your business that could benefit the non-profit agency by providing some probono work. This will get you involved in the nonprofit’s mission and at the same time bring fresh innovative ideas to the table; We are giving back when we sow money, time and talents. We will reap the benefit of knowing that we were able to make a difference in someone else’s

Typically when people think of volunteering the thought of “commitment” comes to mind and people run away. The unique aspect of volunteering is that you create as much of a commitment as you want. You have the option to volunteer as much of your time as you are willing while still focusing on your business and personal life. Some organizations do ask for a longer time commitment however you still are able to give as much time for a certain project as you want. Although volunteering may seem time consuming take a step back and think about the positive impact you may have on someone’s life. I want you to ponder the following: • Think about the young lady that wants to go to college and does not know where to begin. • Think about the young man that has aspirations of being an entrepreneur and wants to talk to someone about getting started and what it takes to be successful. • Think about the senior citizen that needs “an ear” so they can share their stories or needs a chess or card partner. • Think about the people you can serve at a soup kitchen that’s looking for a conversation that can brighten their day.

life. In addition, whatever was sown is what you will reap; this is a proven universal principle; We are giving back when we become a mentor to someone that desires to be where you are. Being a mentor is important because this will help the mentee achieve their goals quicker by revealing pitfalls that you encountered in your climb to success. Most successful busi-

nesses understand that they didn’t get where they are by themselves, so why not sow back into charitable organizations and schools. As an entrepreneur we have a responsibility to build our businesses. Keeping the mindset that your business was not created just for you but also for the generations coming after is a key element to your present day success.

would value and appreciate your time. I talk to people all of the time about the importance of giving back and interestingly enough they did not know what cause to support. The best approach is to select something that you are passionate about. It must keep you excited, engaged and honored to support. This selfless act of kindness is nothing new, as it has been around for generations. It has grown through the years as there are now more available means of community services for people to involve themselves with. Those who take on community service projects have greatly benefited from their work, gained memorable experiences, and built unique character traits.

• Think about the adults that need assistance reading and would “Love” for you to help them read their first book. • Think about the young men and women that want to change their lives and do not know where to begin. There are numerous organizations that are always looking for an extra hand to put a smile on someone’s face. With all the opportunities available to volunteer you can find something that can change not just their life, but yours as well. Make the time and change a life - Give back to your Community!

10. October - November 15, 2011

A Houston Delegation Visits the Capitol City of Ghana, Accra By Val Thompson, Contributing Writer

n September 13th, 2011 at the Accra Me t r o p o l i tan Assembly with a Trade Delegation from Houston, Texas Coun-

the capital and largest city of Ghana, is a business center and a city rich in culture and history. The trade mission, which serves as a platform for the City of Houston

cooperate and share insights for success in meeting the challenges of global competition. On this basis, it is proposed that the City of Houston and the City of Accra will en-

cil Member Jolanda Jones, on behalf of the Mayor of Houston Annise D. Parker, along with the Mayor of Accra Alfred O. Vanderpuije signed a Bilateral Partnership Agreement between the City of Houston and City of Accra, Ghana. The City of Houston is recognized as the energy capital of the world and as an international business and commerce hub that fosters an environment

to explore business opportunities in Accra, was organized by the Houston International Trade Development Council and a ten member delegation that wish to pursue trade opportunities abroad, especially in the fields of energy, health, and education to build international friendships and partnerships. Through this bilateral partnership, the City of Houston and City of

whereby global trade and partnerships are developed. The City of Accra,

Accra will have the ability to formalize a channel through which they can

deavor to support the following objectives: 1. Welcome reciprocal trade delegations (from Accra to Houston; from Houston to Accra) 2. Organize outbound/inbound trade shows 3. Promote trade and investment forums 4. Promote urban development (environment, sanitation, water, energy) Houston is the 4th largest city in the US and has played a leading role in economic development, education, environmental and business opportunities. Accra with its five million people is a millennium city wishing to enhance the relationship between Houston and Accra so that economic development can be abundant and all will benefit in their mutual interests. Accra is committed to bringing development to their city and country and raising the standard of living of their people, improve the water,

electrical and transportation systems. As Accra partners with Houston and works towards transformation to a 21st century city, it is Accra’s goal to become the energy capital of Africa. Initiatives are already underway in working towards these objectives as meetings have been successfully held with key individuals including the following

to discuss significant topics and action items: John Dramani Mahama, Vice President of Ghana – comments that his desire is that there be a direct flight in the near future between Houston and Accra. Emmanuel ArmahKofi Buah (MP), Ministry

of Energy – comments that opportunities in the energy sector are vast in Accra, as Accra’s goal is to become the energy capital of Africa. Richard A. Y. Anamoo, Director of Port Tema – stated that current projects is helping Ghana to position itself as an ideal base for international trade and development George Kuntu Blankson, Ghana Airports, Board Chairman - comments that there are tremendous construction opportunities as Accra seeks to expand its airport buildings and facilities. The City of Houston and City of Accra will commit to fostering greater commercial links, goodwill, and bilateral business development between their citizens/members,

and that this commitment shall be for the betterment of both cities. Val Thompson President & CEO Houston International Trade Development Council,Inc. International Trade Center- Houston 11110 Bellaire Blvd. Ste.222, Houston, Texas 77072 Direct; 832-448-0537 Office; 832-448-0190 Cell; 832-526-3335 Fax; 832-626-9528 Web; www.houstontrade.org

October - November 15, 2011

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12. October - November 15, 2011

October - November 15, 2011

Our Community! Our Time!!!

retired after 26 years. Phillip’s father, Bishop Prince Earl Williams Bryant, Sr., was born in Mount Enterprise, Texas; the fifteenth child of Bishop and Mamie Bryant. Bishop Prince Bryant currently pastors The Island of Hope Church of God in Christ, and acts as

minority. “It was a blessing” having the opportunity to make a difference and change misperceptions of racial heritage with friends and schoolmates. However different, we shared wholesome traits and like moral values. Phillip graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Management. Bryant’s diverse background offers a unique perspective as no other will. From being raised in a single-parent home, to being in an unemployment line; Phillip has dedicated his experiences, education and life to the betterment of the community. His

• •

• start today, not just in conversation, but in action.

Jurisdictional Prelate to the Texas South Central Jurisdiction. Bishop Prince Bryant has served two terms as President of the Mayor’s Advisory Board to the Mayor of Houston and the Community Relations Consultant to the Houston Police Department. Phillip was raised in the church where he spent the majority of his childhood, working for ministries within his father’s organization that helped strengthen communities. At the age of 12, Phillip was enrolled into San Jacinto Christian School, where additional biblical values and principles were formed. While attending the Christian School, Phillip excelled in basketball, football and graduated with academic honors. As one of only four black students at the school, Phillip became conscious of racism and what it meant to be a

feel-good testimony from starting out as a cashier for Jack–in-the-Box in the late ninety’s to a Senior Vice President of a Major Trading Firm less than 10 years later, speaks to not only the nurture of his community; but the nature of his family. Phillip has pledged the remainder of his resources to maintaining family values and minimizing community issues. Now Phillip, has committed to serve his community again, as of April 2011, he is a candidate for Houston City Council District B. “Together we can make a difference”Phillip Paul Bryant

Our Issues

I promised during our kickoff celebration, that our campaign will be different. We will not wait until Election Day, to start addressing some of the issues in our community; we

•

A Learning Community • Create mechanisms for partnering students, teachers, parents and principles • Proponent of City Council / School Board Bi-annual Summit • Promote positive relationships between campus officers and students • Create Council mentorship program for high risk dropout students • Better pay for teachers A Cleaner Community • Supporter of more heavy trash pickup days

Phillip Paul Bryant, Candidate for District B, City Council Seat Environmentalist, Philanthropist, Community Organizer, Television Talk show Host and Businessman; Phillip Paul Bryant currently serves as Chairman of the Board of Directors - Houston Business Alliance; (President) Advisory Board - NEHEMIAH HOUSE RE-ENTRY PROGRAM; President -Community First; Board Member & V.P. of Community Relations- Education Foundation for North Forest ISD: Director of Public Relations- Island of Hope Church; (Member) Board of Directors- Haitian Empowerment Relief Organization. Phillip was born on February 1, 1980 in Houston, Texas. Phillip grew up initially in a single parent home where he learned at a young age the impact family and community can have on the innocence of childhood. Bryant’s mother, Yolanda a school teacher, grew up in Houston where her father served at Ellington Field during the 1960’s. Yolanda’s mother, Doris Howard, went to work at the United States Postal Service, where she

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• Promoter of Clean-up incentives programs • Supporter of recycling centers • Quarterly neighborhood cleanup days A Safer Community • Will organize and establish neighborhood watch programs in communities without HOA • Evaluate police response times and 911

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protocols Evaluate timeline for demolishing abandon /neglected buildings Bi-annual police safety/ community feedback forums Free smoke detectors for campaign volunteers, seniors and veterans Evaluate road repair policy We will fight for better roads and sidewalks in our community

Projects • Economic Development • Resources for New Small Business • Reduce Permits Fees & Requirements for Small Business

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October - November 15, 2011

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Voting Rights Act Giving Back = Doing Your Part

By John Simkin (BA, MA, MPhil), Contributing Writer

In July 1964, Congress passed the Civil Rights Act. The legislation attempted to deal with the problem of African Americans being denied the vote in the Deep South. The legislation stated that uniform standards must prevail for establishing the right to vote. Schooling to sixth grade constituted legal proof of literacy and the attorney general was given power to initiate legal action in any area where he found a pattern of resistance to the law. The following year, President Lyndon Baines Johnson attempted to persuade Congress to pass his Voting Rights Act. This proposed legislation removed the right of states to impose restrictions on who could vote in elections. Johnson explained how: “Every American citizen must have an equal right to vote. Yet the harsh fact is that in many places in this country men and women are kept from voting simply because they are Negroes.” Although opposed by politicians from the Deep South, the Voting Rights Act was passed by large majorities in the House of Representatives (333 to 48) and the Senate (77 to 19). The legislation empowered the national government to register those whom the states refused to put on the voting list.

When Johnson signed the 1965 Civil Rights Act he made a prophecy that he was “signing away the south for 50 years.” This proved accurate. In fact, the Democrats have never recovered the vote of the white racists in the Deep South. Just before his assassination in 1968, Robert Kennedy forecast that the United States would have a “Negro president” in 40 years. This prediction came true when Barack Obama was elected in November 2008. However, his Republican rival, John McCain, won the former Confederate states of Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, Louisiana, Texas, Arkansas, South Carolina, North Carolina and Tennessee. (1) In 1964, 650 members of the Student Nonviolent Co-ordinating Committee went to

Mississippi to help African Americans register to vote. One student wrote to his parents explaining what happened in the county of Milestoon when they attempted to help blacks register. We got about 14 Negroes to go to the court house with the intention of registering to vote. Sheriff Smith greeted the party with a six shooter drawn from his pocket, and said “Okay, who’s first?” Most of the Negroes remained cautiously quiet. After several seconds a man who had never before been a leader stepped up to the Sheriff, smiled and said, “I’m first, Hartman Turnbow”. All registration applications were permitted to be filled out and all were judged illiterate. The next week, Turnbow’s house was bombed with Molotov cocktails. When the Turnbows left the burning house, they were shot at. A couple of days later, Turnbow was accused of having bombed his own house which wasn’t insured. Sheriff Smith was the one witness against them. Mr. Turnbow was convicted. (2) In 1964, eleven civil rights campaigners were murdered in Mississippi. This included the murders of two white men, Michael Schwerner and Andrew Goodman. Michael Schwerner’s wife made a statement to newspapers on the murders. My husband, Michael Schwerner, did not die in vain. If he and Andrew Goodman had been Negroes, the world would have taken little notice of their deaths. After all, the slaying of a Negro in Mississippi is not news. It is only because my husband and Andrew Goodman were white that the national alarm had been sounded. (3) Lyndon Baines Johnson, speech on the Voting Rights Act (15th March, 1965) Every American citizen must have an equal right to vote. Yet the harsh fact is that in many places in this country men and women are kept from voting simply because they are Negroes. Every device of which human ingenuity is capable has been used to deny this rights. The Negro citizen may go to register only to be told that the day is wrong, or the hour is late, or the official in charge is late, or the official in charge is absent. And if he persists and he manages to present

himself to register, he may be disqualified because he did not spell out his middle name or because he abbreviated a word on his application. And if he manages to fill out an application he is given a test. The register is the sole judge of whether he passes his test. He may be asked to recite the entire constitution, or explain the most complex provisions of state laws. And even a college degree cannot be used to prove that he can read and write. For the fact is that the only way to pass these barriers is to show a white skin. This bill will strike down restrictions to voting in all elections - federal, State, and local - which have been used to deny Negroes the right to vote. (4) Lyndon Baines Johnson, speech at Howard University (4th June, 1965) At times history and fate meet at a single time in a single place to shape a turning point in man’s unending search for freedom. So it was at Lexington and Concord. So it was a century ago at Appomattox. So it was last week in Selma, Alabama. There, long-suffering men and women peacefully protested the denial of their rights as Americans. Many were brutally assaulted. One good man - a man of God - was killed. This was the first nation in the history of the world to be founded with a purpose. The great phrases of that purpose still sound in every American heart, North and South: “All men are created equal” - “Government by consent of the governed” - “Give me liberty or give me death”. And those are not just clever words and not just empty theories. In their name Americans have fought and died for two centuries. Experience has clearly shown that the existing process of law cannot overcome systematic and ingenious discrimination. No law that we now have on the books can ensure the right to vote when local officials are determined to deny it. Taken from http://www.spartacus. schoolnet.co.uk/USAvoting65.htm

By Noel Pinnock, B.S., M.P.A., C.A., CCC, Contributing Writer In 1766, the world was introduced to the word “rec-i-proc-i-ty”. Reciprocity has known synonyms such as cooperation, exchange, mutuality, or interchange. The short definition can be summed up in two words, “giving back.” In this edition of D-mars, the emphasis has been placed on the essentials of giving back. I am a strong advocate of reciprocity and it is incumbent upon everyone to understand that there is true value in helping others and giving back. In fact, many of you who will read this article are able to read because someone in your past (home, school, etc.) decided to reach out and help you. He or she took the time to teach the rudiments of discerning the alphabet, interpreting symbols, and reading for understanding and comprehension. It was not long before you mastered it and could understand the most complicated literature. Some

of us decided that it was simply enough to learn the skill while others chose to pursue a career at helping

others begin their reading journey. We refer to those individuals as teachers. People oftentimes approach me after I give a speech or present a training session and ask me do I minister or preach at a church. I am always flattered; however, my typical response is two-fold and centered on the two types of ministers in the world, ministers by profession and influence. In either case, we are all ministers. Likewise, we are all teachers because we have an influence (positive or negative) on everyone we come in contact with on a moment-bymoment basis. Susan Skog once wrote: “There’s a deep wave of grassroots giving back sweeping the country. A surge of people across all age groups is volunteering like never before. But giving back doesn’t mean that you don’t get anything in return. Helping others reach for a new day rejuvenates us in ways that another margarita-soaked vacation, more stuff, a fatter resume, or a supersized house can’t begin to. We want to feel useful. We want to find meaning. We want to feel this alive and on fire with possibility.” Here are three simple ways you can give back from finding your true calling to boosting your overall sense of joy:

JOIN A PRAYER GROUP Prayer is an essential component of our existences as well as our destiny. Inter-

cessory prayer has been the bedrock of our salvation and our country’s freedom, so why not fall on bended

knees for someone else (in season and out of season). Do not just say I am going to pray for Brother John Doe or Sister Jan Doe… take the time to pray without delay. In these uncertain times, we need to say more than God bless you!

IRON UP Some people have gone further than they thought they could because someone else thought they could, so reach out and help another person attain a career goal or objective. King Solomon once wrote, “As iron sharpens iron, so a man sharpens the countenance of his friend.” (KJV)

BE CREATIVE Maybe you have a relative who is interested in a certain academic area, rather than just getting them a bathrobe or slippers, get them information and possibly tickets to a speaker that is coming to town. Compliment your neighbor on a “yard-well-done”…send a hand written note (text messages and emails do not count) to an employee who completed the project on time and under budget. We do not need a season to begin giving back because if you have the opportunity to get up in the morning, then that is reason enough because when you do it unto the least of them, you are really doing it unto God...so, have fun

giving back and doing your part because one day someone will give back to you!

16. October - November 15, 2011

October - November 15, 2011

Planned Giving Provides All-around Benefits giving in a way that can be financially beneficial to everyone involved — including you, the donor.

By Crawford McGill Financial Advisor There’s certainly something to be said for spontaneous and random acts of generosity. But when it comes to making charitable donations, it may be wise to give some thought to the matter to try and get the most out of every dollar. Planned giving, usually arranged with the benefit of financial and legal experts, refers to strategies that can help you maximize your

A little planning can make charitable donations go a long way When you think through and compare various options for charitable contributions, it’s easy to see how planning can lead to more profitable giving. Donating cash versus appreciated securities. The form of your charitable donation can make a difference. For example, you can choose to simply write a check for $10,000 to your favorite tax-exempt charity. Your check benefits the organization you wish to support and you reduce your estate value. People who itemize may also be able to deduct the gift from their taxable income for the year, subject to adjusted gross income (AGI) limitations. However, you may want to look

into your portfolio and, in consultation with your financial advisor, make a comparable gift in the form of securities. By donating appreciated stock with a current value of $10,000, for example, you receive an immediate income-tax deduction for the shares’ full appreciated value (as long as you’ve held the publicly-traded shares for more than one year and your deductions remain within AGI limitations).

By giving away the stock, you also avoid a tax bill for any capital gains tax on the shares’ appreciation. Thus a gift of appreciated stock yields a dual tax benefit for the donor, while giving the charity the option to hold the stock in hopes of further appreciation or sell for a cash infusion. Bequest after death versus charitable remainder trust: If you have large stock holdings and want to continue to benefit from your investments — but also want to share your wealth with your favorite charity — there are a number of ways to go. You can simply send the charity of your choice a check once a year and take the deduction on your taxes (subject to AGI limitations). You can also make provisions in your will to leave a portion of your assets to the charity. There are other options available that a financial and legal advisor can help you explore that may allow

you to give more to your favorite charity while you are still living. For example, by placing your assets in a charitable remainder trust, you receive income for the remaining years of your life or for a specified length of time of 20 years or less. If you select a charitable remainder unitrust, the amount you receive will adjust to reflect changes in your trust asset balance. As an irrevocable gift (meaning it cannot be changed), you can claim an immediate charitable income tax deduction for the value of the charity’s remainder interest (again, subject to AGI limitations). Any amount exceeding the AGI limitation can be carried forward up to five years. Because the trust is essentially removed from the estate, it may reduce estate taxes. This form of giving also provides the added benefit of enabling you to enjoy the personal satisfaction of giving while you’re alive. And, the charity benefits by being the recipient of whatever remains in the trust at the end of the term. Estate tax changes are looming. Estate taxes, which can take a big bite out of an inheritance, are a mov-

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ing target. Unless Congress takes action to prevent it, the estate tax is scheduled to change in 2013. In 2013, it is scheduled to resume with a lower exemption and higher rates. Proper planning, which takes into account changing estate tax laws, can help you make the most of your charitable gifts. Take advantage of professional advice Talk to your financial advisor to discuss how your giving goals fit within your overall financial plan and explore strategies for planned giving. A tax advisor can help you sort out how charitable donations affect your tax bill, while a lawyer can help you draw up necessary papers for a legal agreement such as a trust. With proper advice, it’s easier to be a good steward of your resources as you support organizations you value. Financial planning services and investments offered through Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA & SIPC. This information is not intended as legal or tax advice. Please consult with your legal and tax advisors regarding your individual situation.

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October - November 15, 2011

The Vita-Doc; Healing the Community Naturally ral Herbs have been used for centuries to treat medical and mental health concerns. In present day, herbs and other natural ingredients are used in conjunction with prescription medications in order to enhance the healing process. Natural supplements are produced in the form of capsules, teas, tablets, powders and creams that possess various therapeutic properties.

By Dr. Tamyra Comeaux In today’s fast-paced society filled with advanced technology, food and drug companies are constantly discovering new ways to appease the consumer on- the- go and those that need a “quick fix.” Unfortunately, most of the products produced lack key nutrients and vitamins that aide in optimal physical and mental health. Over the last two decades, more people have been side lined by the onset of serious illnesses, diseases, and severe emotional impairments.

Ironically, the onset of such calamity is not caused solely by the reported lack of adequate and available healthcare, but the food that we ingest, the air that we breathe and the impurities that we constantly shove into our bodies through drugs and other chemical based supplements. In order to recharge and reclaim our bodies, it is important to maintain optimal health and utilize products and supplements that are made of natural herbal ingredients. Natu-

The Human Lab Rat I love to travel abroad searching for ways to educate myself on how to effectively treat my patients and offer them a better quality of life and longevity. I found it fascinating that practitioners in China and Germany write prescriptions for herbal combinations. I have traveled to Europe, Asia, Central, and South America and discovered that native fruits and herbs are being used to treat many ailments. As a medical health professional, I not only believe in the power of Western medicine, but I am also an advocate for keeping our bodies healthy by optimizing natural herbs and ingredients

to aide in healing the body. I am an Obstetrician and Gynecologist (Morehouse School of Medicine in Atlanta Georgia) with a Master’s Degree in Holistic Nutrition and a Naturopathic Medical Degree. I seek and create the most comprehensive vitamin and herbal formulas designed to optimize health and balance for not only my female patients, but male consumers as well. I am a firm believer that Vitamins help protect the body from diseases and illnesses. Supplements offer added “insurance” that is needed especially in those who do not eat a healthy, balanced diet. I spend countless hours researching and developing the safest, healthy, and effective method of producing natural supplements so that my patients can maintain optimal health naturally. To ensure the efficacy and safety of my products, I along with friends, family, and staff thoroughly test these products personally. I guess you can say that I am my own “human lab rat.” This developed out of my attempt to make available to my patients the supplements that I personally have researched and find useful. Several of my products have undergone the ORAC Value Test. The Importance of ORAC Value Testing ORAC Values are the most common standard of

measuring the antioxidant capacity of fruits and vegetables. ORAC stands for Oxygen Radical Absorbency Capacity. This standard has been adopted by the US Department of Agriculture, and has come to be accepted as some kind of “official” standard. ORAC values measure the time an antioxidant takes to react to free radicals, as well as the amount of antioxidants in the specific food. It combines these elements into one measurement. Foods with a higher ORAC value, in general, have a greater antioxidant potential than those with low values. The foods that tend to rank the highest in ORAC values are fruits with bright pigmentation: berries, red grapes, cherries, and apples are some examples. Based on scientific evidence, daily antioxidant intake should increase to 3,000 to 5,000 ORAC units per day to reach a significant antioxidant capacity in blood plasma and other tissues. According to the U. S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), current intake is about 1,200 units per day. One can still obtain the 3000-5000 ORAC recommended on this diet, if you include herbs in your seasoning, and combine your foods for maximum effect. One can also drink herbal tea.

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Tea has a high ORAC score: USDA researchers, using a test tube measure called ORAC, found that an 8-ounce serving of black or green tea is more effective in neutralizing free radicals than individual servings of more than 33 commonly consumed fruits and vegetables. How to Supplement your Income the Natural Way As an advocate for promoting natural methods of health and healing, I believe in sharing my knowledge and products with the world I offer businesses, churches, organizations, and entrepreneurs a change to become a part of the natural healing crusade by becoming a distributor. You not only have the opportunity to help people feel and look better along with weight loss naturally, but also, you can earn extra revenue. Please call Natural Women’s Health Care at 832-237-4200 for more information. These products can be obtained by contacting my office and ordering from my website. For your convenience, some products are available through Amazon.com and or Ebay. Dr. Tamyra Comeaux Natural Women’s Health Care 11811 FM 1960 Suite 104 Houston, TX 77065 Phone: 832-237-4200 Email:info@naturalwomenscare.com www.naturalwomenscare.com

20. October - November 15, 2011

October - November 15, 2011

Fort Bend Academy of Arts and Dance, Celebrating 5 Years “Educating and Empowering through the Arts” Dance is for everybody. I believe that the dance came from the people and that it should always be delivered back to the people. - Alvin Ailey

FBAAD, Fort Bend Academy of Arts and Dance, has been serving Fort Bend, Houston, and surrounding areas for half a decade. They have taught and trained over 500 students. FBAAD is a quality professional fine arts dance school passionately dedicated to “Education and Empowerment through the Arts.” Their mission is to become a positive influence to the economic, social, and cultural development of Missouri City, Sugar Land, and surrounding Fort Bend County areas. FBAAD seeks to not only educate but to also give their students the authority and power to influence themselves, others, their families, and their community through the Art of Dance. Dance is powerful! FBAAD’s founder, Charity Carter has a vi-

to the power of self expression through the creative art of dance. Carter started as a child prodigy and continued her pursuit of the study of professional dance throughout college. She became a repository for all facets of this beautiful form of communication and initially desired to perform, but her heart passionately led her to teach. Something she started at a very young age. In her search for dance heroes, she found few in the African American community. Her desire is to change that one student at a time. Carter tells the story of how she was reunited with one of her former students, Leonard Price. She taught him the craft when she was seventeen and he is now dancing in one of the premiere African American dance

and praise dance for age’s 7-adults. FBAAD also offers pointe class for their advance level ballerina ages 12 and up. FBAAD partners with other theatre arts, dance and fitness instructors meeting the needs of the community including Miss Shawn Dean and the Love of Music offering their Annual Youth Christmas Production (www.theloveofmusic.org). Weekly Two Step and Swing Out dance instruction with Henry Harvey and the Houston High Steppers (www.houstontwostep.com). Weekly fitness and boot camp instruction “Helping You Get That Body Right” with Edrina Newman and Lady of Essence (www.ladyofessence.com) FBAAD extends its community outreach to the young and the old including many day cares, private schools, after school programs, and elderly facilities. FBAAD has partnered and contracted with organizations such as: The Leaders Academy, Imani School, West Orem YMCA, Texas Medical Center YMCA, American Rising Stars, FBISD, Philia Works, the Bearrington School, and currently Happy Angels Learning Center and the Julia C. Hester House. FBAAD, Fort Bend Academy of Arts and Dance their 5th Anniversary with Initiation of:

sion that will revolutionize professional dance as we know it in the African American community in the Houston metropolitan area. It is her desire to educate, empower, and expose Houstonians from kindergarteners to Baby Boomers

companies in Houston. FBAAD offers an array of services for children and adults of all ages: Creative Movement for their 3-4 year olds, ballet, tap, hiphop, and praise dance for their 5-6 year olds, ballet, tap, modern, jazz, hip-hop,

Their Afterschool Dance Conservatory which is designed specifically for the development and discipline of young dancers. Conservatory dancers will study the art of dance daily with emphasis on ballet and modern technique. They will also learn jazz, contemporary, hip-hop, and other dance styles. Afterschool transportation will pick-up dance students daily from their elementary or middle school and bring them to FBAAD for conservatory

dance classes. This is not an after school play time. This is an after school private dance academy with a comprehensive program/ dance curriculum, high expectations and discipline requirements.

ing technique, and performing regularly. With full development of these components company members will be equipped to enter the world of professional dance.

3. The opening of their 2nd location in Sugarland is scheduled for Winter 2012. They also anticipate future

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arts and etiquette. They intend to build a facility that will house and be an optimal outlet for ALL THEIR fine arts services shaping the dance culture of their communities. As they celebrate their 5th year FBAAD would like to extend an invitation to any and all of their past dancers to their 5th Annual Spring Dance Concert June 2, 2012 at the Stafford

2. The inauguration of ANDance Jr Company, their pre-professional junior dance company. It was established to equip young dancers with a performance-based dance company experience. ANDance Jr. Company will cultivate and prepare young dancers for career paths in dance. Company members will be given the opportunity to expand their dance education by becoming disciplined, developing artistry, improv-

expansion to Pearland and other surrounding Fort Bend and Houston areas. FBAAD’s overall goals are to become a true ALL encompassing fine arts academy offering instruction and development in ALL disciplines of performing and visual arts, music, theatre, including dance, production and the addition of martial

Civic Center. For more information visit their website at www. fbaad.com or send them an e-mail at info@fbaad. com. Their contact information is: 1959 Texas Parkway, Missouri City, Texas 77489 Office: 281 403 3200, Fax: 281 403 3201

22. October - November 15, 2011

Reel Life, Real Business Staying Viable in a Changing Market... A Business Review of “Barbershop II... Back in Business” By Darryl Samuels, D. Samuels & Associates, LLC Have you noticed any changes at your favorite local barbershop/beauty salon, lately? Over the years, I’ve noticed the deliberate transformations surrounding my beloved Randle’s Barbershop in historic Third Ward as new infrastructure is being built, lots are being cleared for high income housing, and new commercial strip centers with trendy franchise businesses are exploding onto the scene. The area is much cleaner, new luxury condos are across the street from shotgun houses, and Pookie an ‘nem have been replaced by Carol and Bob. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. A majority of the developments are welcomed, others are not. However, one thing is for sure: Property ownership in Third Ward, Midtown, Fourth Ward, and other neighborhoods surrounding the Texas Medical Center and Downtown Central Business District is changing hands whether we like it, or not. It is our duty and responsibility to ensure that our small neighborhood businesses are on the upside of the equation. Urban gentrification occurs when wealthier people acquire property in low income and working class communities. Often old industrial buildings are converted to residences and shops. In addition, new businesses, catering to a more affluent base of consumers, move in, further increasing the appeal to more affluent migrants and decreasing the accessibility to the poor which sometimes results in lowerincome residents relocating because of increased rents, house prices, and property taxes. How can an existing neighborhood oriented business in a gentrifying area make the necessary adjustments to stay afloat and compete in a changing market? Watching Ice Cube’s

Barbershop movie franchise provides excellent pointers on how a small business owner can successfully navigate through this dilemma. Calvin Palmer, Jr. (Ice Cube) is trying his best to keep open the barbershop his father handed down to him. During the first Barbershop movie Calvin was treading water when he erroneously sold and nobly purchased his business back from a crooked developer. In Barbershop II: Back in Business, The shop’s latest threat comes from another overzealous developer, Quentin Leroux, who opens a rival barbershop chain across the street, called “Nappy Cutz.” While Calvin attempts to figure out how to deal with the coming threat of direct competition from Quentin’s flashy establishment, his barbers have issues of their own. Isaac, the lone white barber, is now the star of the shop, and begins to feel that he deserves star treatment, feeling neglected by Calvin and the other barbers. Terri is finding success in managing her anger, but has trouble dealing with the growing mutual attraction between her and Ricky. Dinka is still interested in Terri, but is distraught when he finds out that she loves Ricky instead. Jimmy has quit the shop to work for the local alderman Lalowe Brown; his replacement, Calvin’s cousin Kenard, is fresh out of barber school and horribly inept at cutting hair. Meanwhile, the barbershop and other businesses like it are under threat from gentrification and Calvin is offered a substantial bribe from Brown and Leroux in exchange for his support of the city council’s pro-gentrification legislation. After attempting to change his own barbershop’s style and decor to match those of his rival, Calvin decides to refuse the bribe money and speak out against the neighbor-

hood’s gentrification at the local city council meeting. Though Calvin gives a passionate speech about the legislation helping the region to earn money at the cost of its soul and the community, the council still unanimously votes to approve the legislation and move forward with the project. Though the pro-gentrification project is approved, the community remains loyal to Calvin’s barbershop. How did Calvin do it? How did he keep it together? Below are ten essential areas, highlighted by film examples, business owners must understand, adopt, and implement to maintain profitable businesses in gentrifying neighborhoods:

Effectively Communicate Calvin consistently provides instructions, directions, and expectations of how the barbershop should be operated.

Customer Incentives Quality service, camaraderie, and personal relationships provide enough incentives for Calvin’s Barbershop to maintain its customer base.

Product Awareness On two separate occasions, Isaac explains to his customers different haircut styles, and demonstrates the differences between the make, model, advantages, and disadvantages of particular clippers. Knowing what your steady customers like, constantly educating them on the usage, and keeping these items in stock is very beneficial for product awareness.

Flexibility Calvin’s flexible management style allows his barbers, and himself, to solve their own problems individually, and as a group.

Customers are typically impressed by businesses that incorporate the latest technological fads. However its the people who you employ is what makes your business successful. For example, Nappy Cutz, with its state-of-the-art equipment, aquarium, and indoor basketball court does not have a chance in displacing a neighborhood institution like Calvin’s Barbershop, because at the end Calvin is from the hood and has earned the respect from his peers and community, who in turn support his business.

Reliability ‘Your word is your bond” is the theme reiterated throughout both movies.

People over Technology

Employee Training Calvin consistently provides training and guidance by teaching his barbers how to properly engage their customers.

A good movie can teach!

To review our pictorial gentrification guide, receive more information regarding small business development, or obtain copies of the Barbershop movies, please visit our website at www.dsamllc.com. Meanwhile, I’ll be at Randle’s getting my fade tightened up! Until next time.

Community Reinvestment into Lives

Customer Service The barbers take great pride in their work; in fact, Isaac’s customers request that he signs his work with an “i” once he finishes a haircut. Employee Loyalty Loyalty works from the top down. Calvin’s father displays his loyalty to Eddie, who saved the barbershop from being destroyed during the 1968 Martin Luther King riots by waiving his chair fees for the rest of his career. Calvin demonstrates that same loyalty by guaranteeing employment to his faithful crew as long as he owns the shop.

Know their names

It’s like going to “Cheers!” Customers want to go where people know their names. Consciously learning names, interacting, and developing relationships with its customers is what makes Calvin’s Barbershop successful.

By Charlotte Jackson, Contributing Writer How many of you reading this went to bed hungry as a child? How many of you had a parent who was incarcerated? How many of you went to school not knowing that when you returned home from school, if one of your parents might have been arrested for being in the country illegally? How many of you grew up in a home with neither of your biological parents? How many of you had to tackle elementary school while

learning a new language? How many of you as a supervisor have had employees come to work late, or called in at the last minute due to a personal emergency or an employee suddenly quit due to a situation that they did not feel comfortable enough to share with you? Today’s young people face issues bigger than we can imagine. Just this morning, I heard from two young adults who were overwhelmed because they had a parent who was being arrested. One young man shared that his father was being charged with kidnapping and drug trafficking. Another young man called to say his mother was arrested and charged with aggravated assault. In addition, there are six young ladies, ages ranging from 19 – 26 years of age, who have lost their mothers due to cancer, drug overdoses or accidents. Most of these eight young people have younger siblings

who need mentors to not only be a role model but to share hope that life may be rough right now, but in time, with perseverance and determination, it will be better. Do you have one hour a week to spend with a local elementary school student as a mentor? If so, perhaps you would like to give back to the community by participating as a volunteer. Mentoring programs are on many elementary campuses this year. Trained volunteers meet one hour per week with a student and serve as role models until May. Building these relationships not only help prepare the foundation for employees of tomorrow but also help the leaders of today understand the many challenges that children are facing. If you are interested in learning more about the opportunity to touch lives in our community, feel free to contact your local school system.

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Doing Your Part By Quintin Wiggins, EQ Quickbooks Owner

Hosea chapter 4:6 says “My people are destroyed from a lack of knowledge”. This is spiritual yet practical advice for today’s entrepreneur. We live in a very competitive business world. The planet is smaller so access to data is cheaper and anyone can create a virtual office storefront. There is a constant need for today’s entrepreneur to continuously update their business model. So the question becomes what separates the pretenders from the contenders? In this seemingly complex world the answer is simple. You need reliable, accurate, and quick access to your financial data. This data will help you make proper business decisions. In order to access and assess your financial information one needs a quick and reliable financial system. In creating this system, one needs to concentrate on developing a good collections and bill payments system. In my experience, I see an inordinate number of small businesses using spreadsheets and manual systems to track billings. It is virtually impossible to efficiently manage your accounts receivables with such antiquated methods. According to various industry reports, most small businesses fail due to financial mismanagement. Typically this means that a business does not manage its cash flows properly. Simply put cash inflows are not sufficient to meet cash outflows obligations. Luckily for some businesses, Intuit the maker of Quick Books has designed

the perfect system for invoicing and bill payments. The Quick Books financial software system allows business to establish profiles on each of its customers. In establishing information in the customer master file, you can capture email addresses as well as credit card information. Additional features allow for progress billings that could speed up cash flow on longer jobs. The estimate feature in Quick Books allows you to create an estimate for a customer and once the customer agrees to the work, the estimate can be turned into an invoice. The reporting section of Quick Books allows you to track accounts receivable by customer and the total days outstanding for each invoice. The aforementioned features allow you instant access to your data on a daily basis. The next aspect of managing cash flow is to maximize the days allowed before vendor payments are due. Much like customer files, Quick Books allows you to establish a vendor master file for each vendor. In this vendor master file you can set-up the payments terms for each vendor. When a bill is entered into the system a due date will automatically alert you as to the due date of the invoice. The reporting section of the vendor system generates reports on outstanding payables.

The key to having all this information is simple. You can maximize your efforts on collecting monies due from you. Then you can schedule your payments around the actual due date. The game that we play as small business owners is “Maximizing Cash Flows”. At EQQUICKBOOKS.com we have a 2 day training course that will teach every aspect of Quick Books. We also strongly cover account receivable, accounts payable and cash flow budgeting. We have a state of the art training room. We assign all of our students to individual personal computers with a version of Quick Books preloaded. A live onsite instructor will direct the students via an overhead computer projection screen on each lesson in Quick Books. If you are a novice no need to worry, the instructor will be there to assist you every step of the way. This class is ideal for both the entrepreneur and any clerical staff. Both beginners and advanced users are encouraged to attend the class. This month’s theme is “Doing Your Part”. Imagine the feeling as a business owner knowing that you are managing your cash flow and are able to take care of all your stakeholders. For more information or to register for a class visit us www. EQQUICKBOOKS.com. (This is not a CPA firm)

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

713.272.9511

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This Article Will Not Be Televised!

By Dr. D. L. Jones, Contributing Writer

ince the 1960s, Black America has been plagued with negative media images of Black Americans that have evolved into a growing cultural epidemic from Super Fly cool to TuPac’s ThugLife. Unfortunately, what seemed to be the fad of sagging pants among the urban males yet remains and has crossed gender, racial and economic lines. Over the past half-century Hollywood’s counterproductive images of urban culture has negatively affected the home, school and neighborhood, and now affects Americans of all races and walks of life. A national culture characterized by thug-life has called irresponsibility freedom, glorifies crime, violence, and lucid sexuality, defies all authority, and acts as a coping mechanism for those who feel rejected by traditional cultural norms and values.

A Culture of Thug-Life and Ghetto-Down. Now reaching far beyond housing projects, slums, and other depressed urban areas, ghetto culture attracts white suburbia who wishes to identify with either hardness and struggle or the criminal element of people living in poverty. Hollywood has made being truly “ghetto” a universal norm. Hollywood’s glamorization and fascination with drugs and alcohol as well as thug-life are attractive to the rich and the poor. So, you clearly don’t have to live in the ghetto to be ghetto-down, thanks to the entertainment industry. The influence of ghetto-life has been spread across all social and eco-

nomic boundaries, promising deceptive satisfaction to all who would exchange decency for vulgarity and citizenship for rebellion. Hopefully, my description of ghetto culture depresses you enough to renounce it and educate those who are a part of it. I understand ghetto culture because I was born and raised in the hood. Like many black Americans, I grew up in urban America infused with ghetto culture. Though I was affected by many ghetto influences, I never fully immersed myself in it (thanks to parents and mentors who showed me another way of living). While I don’t judge people I do judge the decadence of urban life that we see today. I constantly preach that the thug-life mentality is one of those things that our inner city youth need to graduate from. It was fostered by the rise of government social services and welfare programs and nurtured by unemployment and crime. When Hollywood glamorized ghetto-life, its culture spread like a wild fire burning out of control. Now, Hollywood’s urban depictions are plagued with restless, ignorant, and self-serving deviants who validate them by sharing in the customs and entertainment of ghetto culture. No, all brothers may not call our sisters bitches and whores, but many brothers sing along with the rappers who glorify such actions. They may live conservatively during the week but on the weekends they talk ghetto, party ghetto, and act ghetto, further validating the negativity of ghetto culture. We have to help our urban children graduate from ghetto fabulous. People living in ghettos often use ghetto culture as a way of coping with a seemingly hopeless situation; hopelessness is when you don’t see a way out or things getting better. However, when those who know better validate the self-destructive culture of the ghetto, it only confirms ghetto hopelessness! Our black leaders fought and sacrificed for a better life for us only to

witness a generational fascination with ghetto-fabulous. Are you kidding me? Work my way out of the ghetto and continue living ghetto fabulous! The idea should be to get out of the ghetto so that we can live safe, productive, responsible lives as a model to our children. Don’t believe the hype! Here’s how we can help our children denounce being ghetto fabulous: • Refuse to listen to music or support artists that glorify being ghetto fabulous • Openly abhor ghetto lingo, dress, and demeanor • Raise your children not to be dependent on government assistance as a way of life • Refuse to glory in ignorance but value education in all forms, both formal and informal • Make self empowerment not only a goal, but a lifestyle • Teach respect for oneself and others • Obey just laws and works to change unjust laws • Tell our young to honor their bodies through proper nutrition, exercise, and abstinence • Speak with dignity and respect for self and others • Make an asserted effort to live above ghetto culture and norms. If Each one-Teach one, we can make the change!

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Trevian Mathis, “It’s A Family Affair” By Sharon C. Jenkins, Contributing Writer

revian Mathis is an industrious young man with a vision; he wants you to realize your dreams. Even though he was raised in a single family household, he made the right choice to build a career for himself. When college was unaffordable, he made

the choice to go into the military. When making a transition from the military to civilian life, he made the choice to relocate where he found employment. When faced with realizing his dreams, he chose Ardyss International as the vehicle. Through self motivation and determination he shaped an unbelievable

future for himself. When Trevian was a little boy, he never dreamed he would be working with his mom Gail Mathis, Platinum President in Ardyss International. Even more as an adult, watching his mother go from homeless to a six-figure income in less than nine months still did not convince him that he should join the Ardyss business. Gail was a single parent who played a dual role in Trevian’s life as mother and father figure. They had their ups and downs as families do, but love always took precedence over conflict. After graduating from high school, he joined the military because they could not afford college. Trevian ended up being stationed overseas in Germany, which contributed to them drifting apart. While in the service he also pursued network marketing, but

experienced marginal success. Meanwhile his military career was progressing and he was able to secure a Top Secret Security Clearance as a result of the career advice of a good friend. When he later left the military he was able to secure employment based on his military experience as an engineer. He continued to study and acquired the appropriate certifications that lead him to landing a job with a six figure income in the Maryland area. In the midst of all of this success it was very hard for his mother to convince him to join the Ardyss business. His previous failed attempts further complicated his recruitment. Gail just stopped asking and occasionally invited him to accompany her to some of the Ardyss events. One of these events was an all expense paid trip on a private jet to Las Vegas. He was familiar with his mother’s semi-success in other network marketing companies and also aware that other companies provide similar benefits to their representatives. Even this knowledge could not prepare him for what he was about to experience on this trip. Trevian said “When I saw ‘my people’ on the plane,” it was an eye opening experience. These were people he could connect with and relate to, people who looked like him. Not just one or two, but a whole plane full of African American families, none the less, doing this business

and obviously doing it well. He was hooked and has not looked back since. His mother and Trevian are now business partners and their relationship is evolving. “We are now the best of friends and have a relationship that other mothers and sons can model after,” he said. Building a legacy for their family is of the utmost importance to them. Trevian is now a Diamond President, the youngest on record. He maintains his day job and does Ardyss part-time. He says that the sacrifice is worth it. He understands that everything takes sacrifice. His philosophy is that if he can give the Army over 4 years of his life, and take months of schooling to acquire engineering certifications, and work for someone else so that they can achieve their dreams and goals than he can work just as hard for himself in his own business. As a result he has realized all of his own dreams at a very young age. His focus has shifted to helping others achieve their dreams with the Ardyss opportunity. He states, “No matter where this company goes or how it expands, I will be right here, helping others see the same thing I did not see when it was first introduced to me. I no longer wear the shackles of poverty, I walk with a different step and live an incredible life and you can to, if you are willing to take the challenge and do it the Ardyss way.”

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Buffalo Soldiers National Museum’s Wheel’s Exhibit – The Briefing By Burl Washington, Contributing Writer

n September 3, 2011, The Buffalo Soldiers National Museum and the Buffalo Soldiers Motorcycle Club featured the unveiling of The Briefing (a 45’’X56”

original watercolor painting by Burl Washington) at the Buffalo Soldiers on Wheels Exhibit. This exhibit highlights the untold story of the civilian and military history and culture of African Americans and motorcycles. Exhibit

panels illustrate the first African Americans in the U.S. Army Military Police Corps, Buffalo Soldiers in World War I and World War II, first African American Harley-Davidson dealer, and Bessie Stringfield (the motorcycle

queen of Miami). The Briefing is an illustration of a military briefing of Buffalo Soldiers with General John ‘Black Jack’ Pershing and Major Charles Young. General Pershing was the commanding general of U.S. Forces in Europe during WW I and called Black Jack because of his service with Buffalo Soldier regiments. Major Young was the third Black graduate from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point. Burl Washington is one of today’s most talented western artists. He is an artist of history, passion and emotion. The forerunner in bringing the history of the Buffalo Soldiers, Black Cowboys, Women of the West and Blacks in Aviation to the forefront is evident by the sold out status of many of his limitededition prints. Washington was born in Somerville,

Texas, on September 20, 1950. His education includes Art Department, University of Texas at Arlington, Arlington, Texas, BA 1977 and Art Department, Texas State Technical Institute, Waco, Texas, AA 1971. The Buffalo Soldiers National Museum (BSNM) is a 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization, founded in January 2001 by Vietnam veteran and African American military historian, Paul J. Matthews. Its mission is to preserve, promote and perpetuate the history, tradition and outstanding contributions of the Buffalo Soldier and African American soldiers. It is the vision of BSNM that a feeling of pride and patriotism will be realized in everyone due to the gallant contributions of men and women across all cultures and ethnicities who have served in America’s Armed Forces. BSNM is open to the public six days of the week (Monday through Saturday), conducting tours for the general public and area schools, in addition to providing education program-

ming for middle to high school students. Among its many outreach programs, BSNM participates in parades, gives historical lectures, and sponsors a youth drill team. The museum is also an active participant in national veteran projects, such as the Veterans’ Registry Project. As the only museum in the United States that is solely dedicated to preserving the legacy and honor of the African American soldier, BSNM provides a much needed venue to ensure the historical contribution of the Buffalo Soldier and African Americans in the nation’s great wars is not lost to the broad-based community. BSNM is a proud member of the Museum District of Houston and actively seeks out collaborations within the arts and educational communities in order to present multi-faceted events that present the story of African Americans on active duty. For more information contact: Captain Paul J. Matthews or Ms. Mary Green at 713-942-8920 or at captainmatthews@sbcglobal.net.

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Proven Tools that Increase Marketing Response for Community & Nonprofit Events

Ways to Immediately Connect with a New Community

By Vivian Banta, Contributing Writer Following a relocation, people strive to connect with their new community. Most utilize the traditional arenas of work, school and church to meet new people, but those places may not provide the full range of options in truly connecting with people of like mind and values. This article offers 5 suggestions on how to immediately connect with a new community in impactful and meaningful ways. When you first move to a new city or town, you are consumed with the necessary tasks of creating a new life: hooking up the utilities, unpacking and finding new places to put all of your things, starting a new job, and so on. Once you are settled in, the less defined business of settling into your new locale presents itself. How do you become connected with your new community? How do you meet people with similar interests? Here are five tips to help make a strange new place into a home:

1. Tap into your interests, hobbies and sports. Whether it’s a sport, a hobby or a special interest, chances are that there is a group or groups that are formed around it. So, if you cross-stitch, scrapbook or quilt, check in at the specialty craft stores in your new town. They probably have groups that meet up or can tell you about them. This is true of many crafts as well as specialty collecting such as stamps, coins, memorabilia, comic books or sports cards. Along the same lines, if your love is sports or dancing, joining up at a gym or dance hall can allow you to meet others who share your passion. Finally, if you are a pet lover, local pet stores and humane societies can connect you with dog walking groups, charities and events.

Investigate civic organizations and special interest groups. Most people enroll their kids in a new school system and join a new church soon after they move to a new town. But what if you don’t have school age children or what if you don’t belong to or can’t find a church? There are many community and social organizations that may appeal to you and provide a great way to meet other people who share your in-

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By Stephanie Meacham, Contributing Writer

terests and worldview. Examples of civic organizations include the Chamber of Commerce, Rotary Club, Lion’s Club, YWCA, YMCA, Toastmasters, Neighborhood Watch and United Way. Special interest groups include the Sierra Club, the Humane Society and Habitat for Humanity.

Volunteer your time. In addition to volunteering with a not-forprofit organization, there are an abundance of volunteer opportunities with a variety of groups in your community. Among the choices are hospitals, nursing homes, retirement homes, libraries, museums, local attractions, police stations, firehouses, schools, and colleges.

Locate a Newcomer’s Group. Many cities offer a Newcomer’s Group to welcome recent additions to their new home. Check out the meetings and events calendar in your newspaper or ask at the local library to find out when they meet. It’s a great way to meet people who may know a lot about the city, who can perhaps point you towards other resources and groups and who want to welcome strangers.

Take a class. Enrolling yourself in a local community college to brush up on skills or take on a new interest is a great way to meet people. If the classroom environment isn’t a match for you, try signing up for a class at a hobby store or home improvement center where the instruction is more hands-on. You can also tackle personal development or a new activity or sport at a sports club or wellness center. And, in the process , meet others of like mind. Source: Free Articles from ArticlesFactory.com

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Vivian Banta (MBA/Coach U CTP Grad) is a life and transition coach who works with people who want to fully engage in their lives or who are experiencing changes such as relocation, career shifts, and personal relationship changes. To find out more, visit her website or contact her at coach@gardenofsenses.com to schedule a free, 30-minute personal coaching session.

Creating goodwill. Giving back. Celebrating your community. They’ll travel home with visitors and serve as a repeated reminder of your organization or cause. Creating goodwill. Giving back. Celebrating your community. Raising funds for worthy causes. These and others are excellent reasons for participating in community events. But, marketing in these venues can be tricky. Will you get lost in the crowd? Are you able to attract attention? Are the tools you’ve been using effective? Are they cumbersome to transport and set up? Do they work in the ways you want them to work? Let me share 7 easy-touse tools that have been proven to increase your response when marketing at nonprofit events.

Parade Balloons Imagine your mascot, towering 20 feet above the crowd, bearing a banner that shows your support of the community event. Noticeable, inviting and a powerful branding tool.

Inflatable Tents Tents give you a more private environment to welcome guests. Covered (so they protect from rain or intense sun), inflatable tents allow you to set up tables or chairs, offer refreshments or register visitors to win prizes. What’s more, you can add cus-

tomized banners to the outside of your tent that correlate with the community event you’re participating in.

Sports Cages What fun! Batting cages, soccer cages, pitching cages and more are always an instant hit. Expect a line. And when it forms, be prepared to accept donations, distribute marketing materials or educate onlookers about your important cause or occasion.

Inflatable Kiosks Constructing or renting kiosks can be expensive. They can also be cumbersome to move and offer limited functionality. When you order a customized inflatable kiosk, however, you’ll get the best of both worlds. Designed to your specifications, kiosks are a perfect fit for community events. Lightweight, easy to inflate and deflate, simple to transport or ship and they meet all your requirements because they were designed exclusively for you. Now giving away samples or selling products or services will be easier than you thought possible.

Inflatable Movie Screens Is it breast cancer awareness month? Host a community showing of Stepmom. Want to

raise funds for local firefighters? Put Backdraft on the big screen. Inflatable movie screens are an excellent tool for marketing nonprofit events. Brand the screens with banners and you’ve got a captive audience.

Inflatable Costumes Here’s a creative way to interact with crowds at fairs, parades, runs and other community events. Turn your mascot into an inflatable costume. Lightweight and fan-cooled, inflatable costumes allow for quick dress outs, highly flexible movements and hours of comfortable wear. What’s more, crowds of adults and kids always get a kick out of them.

Sealed Inflatable Giveaways Give them something to help them remember this special day. Key chains, product miniatures, balls and more can be branded with your message. They’ll travel home with visitors and serve as a repeated reminder of your organization or cause. Whether you’re promoting a cause, celebrating a holiday, hosting an annual community event or marketing a nonprofit fundraiser, inflatable’s enhance the event and make your organization more memorable. Article Tags: Community Events Source: Free Articles from ArticlesFactory.com

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Sylvester Turner

A ROAST & Toast Evening

“Thank You State Representative Sylvester Turner for all you do in our community”

State Representative Sylvester Turner

DISTRICT 139

PRESENTED BY THE HOUSTON BLACK AMERICAN DEMOCRATS

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THE EXPERT NETWORK ATTORNEYS

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THE EXPERT NETWORK ATTORNEYS

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THE EXPERT NETWORK ATTORNEYS

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THE EXPERT NETWORK

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THE EXPERT NETWORK

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THE EXPERT NETWORK

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THE EXPERT NETWORK

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