d-mars.com Business Journal 81

Business Journal April-May 15, 2014

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Technology and Networking in Business

Networking: Developing Mutually Beneficial Relationships

By Dr. Wendy Johnson

Are you interested in becoming better at business networking?

PAGE 6

LaTosha Johnson Founder

Technology in Today’s Business Environment

PAGE 10

Konnect2Kidz Aims to Create a Brighter Future for Youth

By Kachelle Kelly

The Internet and technology has completely changed the face of how we do business today!

PAGE 18

Local Athlete Fuses his Love for Sports and God into Successful Business Venture

By Valerie Jones

Lanny Smith, 29, grew up playing basketball.

PAGE 20

Pastor Timothy Sloan and Dr. Sonya Sloan

PAGE 4

MEET THE SLOANS: A Couple that Rocks

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PAGE 12

University of Houston African American Studies

“The first rule of any technology used in a business is that automation applied to an efficient operation will magnify the efficiency. The second is that automation applied to an inefficient operation will magnify the inefficiency.”

– Bill Gates

April-May 15, 2014

Journal Behind The

3.

Publisher’s Message

Keith J. Davis, Sr.

SR. PUBLISHER Keith J. Davis, Sr.

SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT Kevin Davis

VICE PRESIDENT Kim Floyd

ASSOCIATE EDITOR Valerie Jones

The landscape of business is constantly changing and evolving and in order to maintain a successful business, you must stay ahead of the game. It’s of great benefit to be knowledgeable of new tools and utilize them in your own business. For example, it’s 2014.

All companies need a social media presence. If you are not adept in this area, hire individuals who are. You never want to allow your business to suffer because of a mere lack of knowledge or expertise in an area. Today’s workforce is full of burgeoning talent.

This issue includes insight and tips on how to utilize technology and networking to help your business progress to the next level.

Take action to incorporate some of these practices into your own companies and watch the transformation begin.

ACCOUNTING MANAGER Eugenie Doualla

CONTENTS

Office Manager

Johnny Ray Davis, Jr.

SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Meet the Sloans: A Couple that Rocks......................................................................................................................................................... 4

C.T. Foster Eric D. Goodwine Tiffany Black

Networking: Developing Mutually Beneficial Relationships................................................................................................................. 6

PHOTOGRAPHY

Networking Your Way to the Career You Always Wanted..................................................................................................................... 8

L.C. Poullard Grady Carter Tony Gaines

Konnect2Kidz Aims to Create a Brighter Future for Youth..................................................................................................................10 University Of Houston African American Studies Hosts Annual Scholarship Banquet................................................................ 12

MULTIMEDIA DIRECTOR

“Strictly Business”............................................................................................................................................................................................ 14

Motivational Moment with JW –Technology and Networking in Business....................................................................................... 6

Andrea Hennekes

LAYOUT & GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Friends and Graduates of PVAMU Can Become a Part of History.......................................................................................................16

Angel Rosa

Technology in Today’s Business Environment.........................................................................................................................................18

DISTRIBUTION

Local Athlete Fuses his Love for Sports and God into Successful Business Venture................................................................20

Booker T. Davis, Jr. Rockie Hayden

Government Procurement Connections Hosts Back to Basics 2014................................................................................................ 22

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Valerie Jones

Did You Know.................................................................................................................................................................................................... 24 Old Folks Saying…............................................................................................................................................................................................ 24

Dr. Wendy Johnson Jarrod Wilkins Mikal Powers Noel Pinnock Kachelle Kelly

Are you Ready to Take Your Business to the Next Level?

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April-May 15, 2014

MEET THE SLOANS A Couple that Rocks

By Valerie Jones Associate Editor

T

he two grew up in cities 15 minutes apart – Timothy is from Sherman, Texas and Sonya is from Denison, Texas. They had a mutual acquaintance – Sonya’s cousin. He was Timothy’s best friend and always thought Timothy and Sonya would make a good couple. He gave Timothy a picture of Sonya in the ninth grade and Timothy carried it in his wallet throughout his high school years.

Baptist Church.

After becoming an orthopedic surgeon, Sonya found full-time work extremely demanding and had to find the balance between work and caring for her family.

It was in May 2002 that a significant change happened in both of their lives.

Timothy was called to serve as the Senior Pastor of St. Luke Missionary Baptist Church in Humble, known as “The Luke.”

While she was raised in the church, Sonya admitted she had a little difficulty defining her new role as First Lady of a church.

“I had to find the right balance – being a strong, dominant woman and being in the church. It really was a balancing act,” she said. “I grew up in the church, but I didn’t think I would end up being a pastor’s wife.

As an orthopedic surgeon, I would contract out and go to different hospitals in various states, but I still had to come home and be a mother, wife, and First Lady.”

DIFFERENT PATHS, ONE DESTINATION

While Sonya attended Texas Tech University on a full scholarship with plans to attend medical school, she was wait-listed and didn’t get accepted her first year. She was devastated, but rather than dwell in her frustration, she took a different course and opened her own business – a coffee house. While Not Just Coffee was a successful business venture for Sonya, she decided to pursue her education in medicine.

She was accepted into the University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) in Galveston and received her MD. Sonya then accepted a residency position in surgery at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, where she became the first African American female surgical resident in the history of the school. After just a year of surgical residency, she became the first African American female Orthopedic Surgical resident at Baylor College of Medicine.

While Sonya always knew she was destined for medicine, Timothy grew up in the church and attended Morehouse College in Atlanta, Ga., which he describes as a major eye-opening 180-degree experience.

“African Americans have such a dominant role in Atlanta,” he said. “When I graduated, I was torn between this dichotomy of wanting to fulfill my call to ministry, but also having some level of social status and impact.”

Upon graduating from Morehouse, Timothy enrolled in Princeton Theological Seminary, where he earned his Master of Divinity. After that, he decided he wanted to go to law school and attended Rutgers University School of Law. In 1994, a familiar figure resurfaced in his life. It was the pretty girl whose picture he used to carry in his wallet. Timothy and Sonya began dating and they

PURPOSEFUL LIFE

Pastor Timothy Sloan and Dr. Sonya Sloan are each other’s biggest supporters. The happily married couple is celebrating their 17th year of marriage and 12th year at The Luke this year.

both decided it would be best if Timothy moved to Houston. Having earned one year’s credit for law school, Timothy transferred to South Texas College of Law in Houston. He and Sonya made things official and tied the knot in 1997.

BALANCING ACT

In the beginning, life was hectic for the newlyweds. Sonya was still in medical school and Timothy supported his wife during her residency. Meanwhile, he took a position with Wheeler Avenue

For Pastor Timothy Sloan and Dr. Sonya Sloan, they are fulfilling their lives’ purpose – as a team.

“God put us together for a specific reason. I think I’m here to support and help him,” Dr. Sloan said. “The passion I have is because I love him so much and want to see him succeed. I am constantly pushing him. I am not a pastor or a minister, but I am his number one supporter. I am his ride-or-die chick. He has always been there for me as well. He’s my biggest cheerleader, supportive of all that I am doing. We heal people that are broken – he does it spiritually and I do it physically.”

The Luke initially began as a church in the middle of the City of Humble 114 years ago, a period when racial tensions were high and black people were pushed to move out of the city. The church relocated to Bordersville. It prospered there

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for several years before burning down in the 90s and went through numerous transitions before Pastor Sloan arrived in 2002.

“Our vision is really to move from a localized mentality to a globalized mission church,” Pastor Sloan said. “Fundamentally, our vision for The Luke has been to build bridges for future generations. It’s critical to take the best of the traditional church and connect it to contemporary culture to create this emerging model.”

There are four pillars which are the foundation of the church: spiritual development, social witness, economic empowerment and health awareness.

“God put us together for a specific reason.

We heal people that are broken – he does it spiritually and I do it physically.”

– Dr. Sonya Sloan

INITIATIVES

Using the four pillars as a guide, The Luke has several big initiatives it is working on, one of them being a partnership with the NAACP raising HIV/AIDS awareness in the church. The Luke was chosen as a model congregation nationally on how to sustain an HIV/AIDS ministry in the church that involves not only testing, but advocacy. The church hosts town hall meetings in which leaders in the community are invited to talk about HIV/ AIDS.

The Luke also has a no-bullying initiative, which includes town hall meetings where students are taught how to deal with bullying in schools. Another pertinent issue The Luke plans to tackle, which is part of health awareness, is obesity in African American children. The church has partnered with the NFL Initiative Fuel Up to Play 60! and Dairy MAX to help with the campaign. The Luke has also teamed with AARP to develop a care ministry for caregivers.

MINISTRIES YOU CAN RELATE TO A big part of what has made The Luke successful in its ministry is that Pastor Sloan and his wife are relatable.

“Our ministry is based on transparency and vulnerability. There is a desire for people to see that so they can grow and emulate it,” Pastor Sloan said.

A popular ministry, Just the Two of Us, was born from Pastor Sloan and Dr. Sloan’s relationship.

“Couples wanted us to teach and minister to them from a transparent perspective – we discuss intimacy, faith and communication,” Pastor Sloan said. “The response was incredible. We shared our struggles and how we overcome them…it has grown into a conference.”

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One of the women who will be honored is Geneva DeVaughn, First Lady of Silverlake Church. She currently serves as the Spiritual Life Coordinator at the Star of Hope’s Transitional Living Center, which serves thousands of homeless men, women and children each year.

“We want to show that women can celebrate God and it doesn’t have to be boring. It is church, but it’s church with the spin of Church Girls Rock,” Dr. Sloan said. “We never lose the focus that this is all about God. We will have an awesome praise and worship service.

It’s us saying, ‘God, we want to give this to you in a way that is Holy and reverent, but different.’”

THE ROAD AHEAD

The Luke has come a long way as a church under the leadership of Pastor Sloan and this May, the church will be celebrating Pastor Sloan’s 12th Anniversary as Pastor. They will be honoring the R.E.A.L. (Relevant, Effective, Anointed Leader) Timothy Sloan.

The ministry is fundamentally based on being transparent. The Sloans share their issues and how they dealt with the challenges that come with married life.

The manner in which The Sloans are able to explore serious topics in a way that is approachable and fun is partly why the ministry is so popular.

“There’s a lot of laughter, but there’s always an undertone of spirituality. We do an exercise in which I will speak as the male voice, basically expressing to the group, ‘when I speak, this is what he really wants to hear,’” Dr. Sloan said. “He’ll also speak as the female voice, or ‘what she really wants to hear.’”

EMPOWERING WOMEN

Dr. Sloan’s passion for women stems from the strong female figures in her own life who have motivated her to achieve.

That was the vision behind the nonprofit organization Motivate and Empower Women to Excel (ME & WE) Dr. Sloan founded in 2007.

“Many of the women I encountered through church were upset with their different lifestyles and making decisions they weren’t happy about,” she said. “They needed that vision.”

ME & WE’s mission is to advocate for the advancement of women through economic empowerment, health awareness and spiritual enrichment.

With a passion for helping women to be successful in whatever God has purposed them to do, Dr. Sloan decided to create an event to serve as a platform to honor amazing women who have made significant contributions to the church, community, and society as a whole.

From that, Church Girls Rock was born.

Presented by The Luke Women, Church Girls Rock will include guest speaker: the premier female minister Dr. Jazz Sculark; an all-girl band featuring Beyonce’s drummer; photo booth and more.

“A lot of women are intimidated by women’s ministry. I feel like we can still be enlightening and bring in the fun element, but do it in a church element and be just as exciting,” Dr. Sloan said. “We can show the outside world how it’s really done, while doing it with excellence.”

Guest speaker Dr. Jazz Sculark was selected because she has an incredible message of healing for women who have been broken by abuse and she has a phenomenal way of speaking.

Dr. Sloan might not have imagined herself as a First Lady, but 12 years later, she couldn’t imagine life any other way.

The Sloans are focused on continuing to elevate The Luke through initiatives based on the four pillars and take care of their family, which includes their three children: daughters Sarah Julia and Soren Grace and son Timothy John.

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April-May 15, 2014

Networking: Developing Mutually Beneficial Relationships

A

Dr. Wendy Johnson Contributing Writer

re you interested in becoming better at business networking? Many think of networking as mainly attending events and exchanging business cards. This is NOT true. Networking is the exchange of information, advice, and referrals, via an immediate informational interview process. It is typically to obtain business, enhance your career or (for some) to meet people. Essentially, it is a meeting designed to establish mutually beneficial relationships. The key word here is mutually. Both you and your contacts will benefit from your networking efforts.

On average, most professionals don’t do enough networking and their worst business networking mistake is that they don’t build a professional network until they really need one – and that’s TOO LATE. Why? A vital part of networking is relationship and trust and expecting to develop that kind of affiliation during a “time of need” is NOT realistic.

There’s nothing complicated about networking even though many are confused by it, misuse it, or fear it. Although it sounds easy, it requires a leap for many professionals. Some people are naturals, as it takes a little more plan-

ning and practice for others. Depending on your personality, walking into a group of strangers, extending your hand and introducing yourself can be stressful and even scary. If you are willing to invest the time and energy needed to develop a strong network of contacts, you can become a magnet who attracts people and resources.

Bottom line: No matter where you fall, you can always improve your networking skill and comfort. It’s worth it for your business, your career and for the opportunity to give and receive assistance.

Below are a few beneficial networking tips: • Diversity is key. Strive to learn from a diverse group of people. Various business professionals have a lot to teach and share when an individual is open to learning and change ideas.

• An online connection is vital. Develop an online network of professionals.

Although worldwide is not local, it is the new networking. It is also easier for people who may be uncomfortable in a faceto-face setting. However, don’t use it to replace networking in person.

• Be effective. Build a network of partners to keep an open eye and ear for new opportunities for you, and vice versa.

Networking is only effective when it is mutually beneficial.

At the end of the day, networking should produce results; however, it is an ongoing task that takes commitment, practice and follow-through. Making the right connections will put you on the path to success. Ultimately, the key is being able to leverage your people networks, as they will save you time, energy, and money. Good Luck!

Motivational Moment with JW – Technology and Networking in Business

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By Jarrod Wilkins Contributing Writer

echnology and networking are critical components to growing a successful business. We’ve all heard: “It’s not what you know but who you know that matters” and “Your network will determine your net worth.” Well, if that is the case then why is it that most businesses fail to focus primar-

ily on these two activities? What I have discovered in my entrepreneurial career over the last decade working, teaching and mentoring corporate executives, entrepreneurs, and religious groups in 22 countries, is that most of them have no clue on how to effectively leverage the power of technology, nor have they developed the skills required to be effective in networking.

In today’s world, technology has made it easier to get your message, product or service out to the masses without the big advertising budget. This has created a platform of exposure and opportunity for people with little to no experience in business, leveling the playing field, allowing them—with a simple click of a button— to download all the information they need and upload all the information they want.

The key then becomes how to properly do

“WHO ARE YOU GOING TO BE?”

Social media sites such as Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram are great tools for exposing your business, as well as your local meet-up groups, chambers of commerce and social business mixers. it. Now, I am of the philosophy that before you decide on what you will do, you must first commit to who you will be. So with that as the foundation of my life, it has become simple for me to have a clear message when communicating the value I bring to the marketplace. Here’s the million dollar question: “Who are you going to be?” Social media sites such as Facebook, Linked-

In, Twitter, and Instagram are great tools for exposing your business, as well as your local meet-up groups, chambers of commerce and social business mixers; however, what I have found is that your ability to use these tools properly allows you to get the results you truly desire. Some of the keys to maximizing and building a social media presence today are: • Have a clear vision • Create an authentic brand • Create a unified message • Understand your purpose These will allow you to attract the clients that you are looking for and eliminate the tire kickers, time wasters and those that are simply not a good fit for what you offer.

The same principles can be applied in your networking efforts – be you, be bold and be on purpose!

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April-May 15, 2014

Networking Your Way to the Career You Always Wanted

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By Mikal Powers Contributing Writer

he days of picking up the phone and calling local businesses to learn of open job positions are long gone. Also gone are the days of sending out resumes in bulk based on jobs posted to job boards. According to a 2013 Jobvite hiring survey, 94 percent of recruiters use social networking to search for candidates that most closely match the job competencies they are seeking. Additionally, 78 percent of these recruiters actually hire based on this approach.

Networking has become increasingly important – and quite easy – given the

opportunities to connect with the right people via social media channels. However, many people still have a fear of approaching recruiters or hiring managers, whether in person, at a career fair or on the phone.

Here are a few tips to expand your network and become more comfortable presenting your skillset to hiring decision makers: 1. Start with those close to you.

If you are nervous about approaching people to discuss where you want to go in your career, start with your closest friends, family and past colleagues. It’s a great way to practice communicating your skillset, and helps you become more comfortable and confident with networking.

2. Make sure your LinkedIn profile is updated.

Update your LinkedIn profile to most accurately reflect your skillsets, accomplishments and work history. Join discussion groups if necessary and contribute when appropriate. When updating your profile, be sure to include as many indus-

try buzz words so that when a recruiter is searching, your name is more likely to appear.

3. Use your network to find favorable introductions.

On a day-to-day basis, recruiters receive many e-mails, resumes and notifications from career portal platforms. It’s much easier to have a favorable introduction from a current employee of the company or someone they know and trust. Approaching a recruiter without an introduction of some sort and sending your resume blind may not always be as well received as a job seeker might hope.

Therefore, having a middleman to make

an instruction, even via email, may help one’s resume stand out.

4. Be memorable.

Recruiters see hundreds of resumes each month. If you are selected for an interview, make it count. Offer expanded insight on a particular subject where you would consider yourself an expert and welcome interesting dialogue. Personality counts, and when you are able to pair personality with experience, it gives recruiters a reason to remember you.

Mikal Powers is campus director at University of Phoenix Houston Campus overseeing campus operations. Powers earned a bachelor’s degree in business management and a master’s degree in business administration from University of Phoenix. He spent five years as a Helicopter Search and Rescue Swimmer and Operations Petty Officer in the U.S. Navy. After earning his degree, Powers attended the U.S. Coast Guard Academy and became a reserve officer for South Texas where he is committed to keeping communities safe and assisting residents in need.

1Whichever comes first. For full details on BMW Ultimate Service® visit bmwusa.com/ultimateservice. ©2013 BMW of North America, LLC. The BMW name, model names and logo are registered trademarks.

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April-May 15, 2014

Konnect2Kidz Aims to Create a Brighter Future for Youth

By Valerie Jones

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Associate Editor

ith a clear vision and a passion for helping people, LaTosha Johnson created Konnect2Kidz, an organization designed to build better communities one family at a time. Konnect2Kidz, founded in 2010, provides tools and resources necessary to offer a better future to those in need. Services offered include a GED program, computer literacy classes, mentor programs and workforce industry outreach.

The organization will be hosting its First Annual Early Childhood Educator’s Extravaganza May 23 and 24, which will honor educators whose work often goes unrecognized. During the two-day event, Konnect2Kidz will award a $4,000 center enhancement grant to help one center build its program.

Johnson plans to continue to pour back into the community with Konnect2Kidz. She took a moment to discuss her vision behind Konnect2Kidz as well as future plans for her organization. d-mars.com: What made you want to establish Konnect2Kidz?

Johnson: As an early childhood educator with 15 years of experience, I have worked with hundreds of kids—some of which lived in detrimental environments and witnessed violence, substance abuse and a general lack of love and

caring for other people. I have always had a genuine desire to help others. I wanted to see an organization that would offer these kids the resources to combat that upbringing and allow them to be productive members of society.

Other children have great parents and a great childhood, but may not have the funds necessary to achieve a college education. Despite any child’s background, I wanted Konnect2Kidz to be available to help them move forward beyond their circumstances. Nothing can hold them back. d-mars.com: Why do you think it’s important to reach

out to youth? What are the benefits of reaching them at a young age?

Johnson: We hear it all the time—our youth is our future. If I can help children move past their circumstances to make a life for themselves, I’m also helping the adults of the future. It was my dream to help them be better before they have to experience so many hardships. Reaching children at a young age opens the door to opportunity and creates experiences for them to build upon. It helps them to explore and activate the gifts inside of them. d-mars.com: Tell me about your passion for helping kids.

Johnson: I have a passion for helping all people. I have a true passion and dedication to helping the youth because they are so innocent and vulnerable. They have no clue about the greatness that God has placed inside of them. I want to ensure that they know and believe that.

Children need to feel loved as they grow. d-mars.com: What are your future plans for Konnect2Kidz?

Johnson: The structure of the Konnect Center is coming soon. This facility will offer a host of resources for the community. We will host workshops and conferences for children and parents as well as educational and skill-building programs. We will have a state-of-the-art resource room for teachers and parents and much more.

We have a $500,000 goal to complete this project with the help of sponsors and business partners. To partner with us, visit www.konnect2kidz.org.

Darryl King Co-Founder & Chief Executive Officer On behalf of The Principle Partnering Group, LLC (PPG), I would like to express my sincere gratitude to D-mars for the tremendous honor of receiving the P&E Trailblazer Award.

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April-May 15, 2014

University Of Houston African American Studies Hosts Annual Scholarship Banquet

By Valerie Jones

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Associate Editor

he key to success in any capacity must first begin with education. The University of Houston (UH) African American Studies (AAS) program will be hosting the 2014 Annual Scholarship Banquet 45th Year Celebration, honoring the legacy of Dr. Marguerite Ross Barnett.

The primary purpose of the annual scholarship banquet is to generate revenue to support the scholarship fund. The AAS program provides academic scholarships for tuition, study abroad, textbooks and graduate assistant positions. The 45th celebration is an opportunity to reflect upon the program’s contributions to academia and the community.

This year’s theme will honor Dr. Barnett, the first black and the first woman to head UH. She expanded the level of scientific research at UH while improving the level of undergraduate teaching.

Dr. Barnett spearheaded efforts to define UH’s role as an urban institution attentive to the needs of the city surrounding it. Additionally, she was responsible for the creation of the Texas Center for the

Study of the Environment and the Texas Center for University-School Partnerships and was a recognized scholar in the field of political science. She authored or edited five books and at the time of her death due to cancer, Dr. Barnett was the nation’s highest-ranked black female college administrator.

This year’s scholarship banquet keynote speaker is Dr. Barnett’s daughter, Amy

Ross Barnett, who is Editor-in-Chief of Ebony Magazine. She was selected because she exemplifies the legacy of excellence in which the AAS program has recognized over the past decade. She will discuss her mother’s influence and empowerment.

The AAS program has awarded more than 100 scholarships under the leadership of Professor and Director Dr. James

L. Conyers, Jr. One of the goals of the AAS program is to support student conference participation. The program has also established intern partnerships with local area businesses, providing students with meaningful work experience.

“The University of Houston’s African American Studies Program, which is administratively located in the College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences, will be hosting our annual scholarship banquet,” Conyers said. “Indeed, our alumni and current study body are prolific in exhibiting academic and professional excellence.

We invite members of the campus community and external partners to join AAS in providing support to our annual scholarship banquet.”

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April-May 15, 2014

“Strictly Business”

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By Noel Pinnock Contributing Writer

t the epicenter of all businesses, regardless of industry, are four mission critical functions: planning, organizing, actuating, and controlling (POAC).

Planning is an essential function in mapping out the business “blueprint” and proper course that is required to reach a desire goal or outcome. Since most businesses exist to be proficient, increase profits, develop efficiencies, grow and survive overtime in their respective industries, it is preponderant that they organize and control activities that are targeted to meet head counts, provide services, manufacture products, or seal deals. At the end of the day, it is all about the business.

I have been blessed to work in the public industry for more than two decades. It is an intrinsically rewarding job that is ever-evolving. Currently, my department is charged with promoting and protecting the health and social well-being of all residents in the City of Houston. Yeah, that’s a magnanimous weight to shoulder, but when the rubber meets the road, it

is strictly about the business of serving people and to serve people we have to be strategic in our delivery – but more importantly – consistent. My mother used to say, “A clock that is five minutes off is right all the time!” Why? Because it will be consistently wrong every hour on the hour. The difference between a viable and unviable business is equivalent to the difference between doing right things and doing things right. Although it is of high importance to do right things, it is just as critical to ensure you are doing things right. We must get focused and stay strategic in our “POACing” because the future of the business is always at stake.

Hip Hop group EPMD produced a song called Strictly Business – a lyrical mammoth that spoke to EPMD’s mentality about their commitment to provide the consumer with the hottest album offered at that time. The song went on to be awarded five out of five stars in 2004 by Rolling Stone magazine and continues to receive critical acclaim by being heralded the fourth-best hip hop album of 1988 and the 11th-best hip hop record of all time. So, what was their secret to success? In a past interview, the duo reported that they had planned, organized, and controlled the production at 80% perfection. Whereas, their competitors were striving for the perfect blueprint, the most pristine arrangements and controlled environment, their focus was getting the product pushed out to saturate the market, so that meant they had to actuate at 100%. Actuate is defined as the ability to get focus and put into motion or execute.

We can suffer from the analysis paralysis syndrome and let a dream or business plan die because we spend a significant amount of time planning for every contingency or alternative. Reflection moment: no one can consider every alternative in a given situation because of neurophysiological and language limitation factors. These factors limit the extent to which we (businesses) can make a fully rational decision, thus we possess only “bounded rationality” and must make decisions by “satisficing,” or choosing that which might not be optimal but which will make us happy

enough. This was popularized by Dr. Herbert Simon, an American political scientist, economist, psychologist, and professor.

It is time to get focused and direct our energies to stay in a “strictly business” state of mind.

Question, are you ready? If your response is “yes,” then plan, organize, and control activities in your business at 80% perfection but actuate at 100%! The secret to achieving organizational success is no longer elusive but it is within your grip if you execute. Be mindful that potential energy is good but potential energy leads to inertia when stagnation prevails, strictly business. I close with the first lyrical bars from EPMD’s song, Strictly Business:

Try to answer to the master on the MC rap artists No joke on the lyric – it’s hard to be modest I knew I was the man with the master plan To make you wiggle and jiggle like gelatin Just think while I sing and to the brain structure Don’t sleep on the e – ‘ya see, something might rupture It don’t take time for me to blow your mind It takes a second to wreck it because you’re dumb and blind So just lounge . . . ‘cause you’re a mc clown Or join the circus . . . EPMD’s in town …above all… remember to…#getatit!

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April-May 15, 2014

Friends and Graduates of PVAMU Can Become a Part of History

By Valerie Jones

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Associate Editor

ailgating…Homecoming…Graduations…

Sporting Events…people often have a special attachment to their college alma maters. For graduates of Prairie View A&M University, they now have an opportunity to become a part of history.

PVAMU is constructing a sports complex, which includes three phases of construction. Phase I includes a 15,000-seat football stadium, with plans to begin construction by the end of 2014. It is expected to take 18-20 months to complete.

Prairie View alumni can choose to etch their name on a brick or buy a stadium seat. Brick and seat namings are available for various dollar-level donations. Brick pricing begins at $100 while seat namings

begin at $250. Prices vary based on location of the brick or seat within the stadium.

“This program allows our alumni and friends to have their name, or the name of a loved one or a memorial, become a permanent part of this sports complex,” said Roy G. Perry, Chairman and President of the Prairie View A&M Foundation. “Not everyone can afford to have their name on a classroom, conference room, parking lot or the stadium, but many can afford to have their name on a brick in the stadium walkway or on a seat within the stadium.

It’s a memorial than can be visited by family for years to come, and it’s a legacy of contributors to be viewed by the next generation of PV students and supporters.”

The university’s multipurpose sports complex, which will include construction of three phases, will complement the athletic program and support the growing population of students on campus.

“Athletics provides a bridge between the current student population, alumni and general population,” Perry said. “In order to attract the best student athletes from around the nation and continue our legacy, Prairie View A&M University must develop facilities that represent a first-class institution committed to providing student athletes the best opportunity to compete on and off the playing field.”

Perry stressed the importance of engaging the younger PVAMU alumni, namely graduates from 1990-2014.

“The future of the university depends upon the support, both monetarily and spiritually, of the younger generations in order to remain an ‘institution of the first class,’” Perry said. “Our younger alumni are the best role models to students considering Prairie View as a university to attend and call their alma mater. These

alums are reaching the pinnacles of their careers as leaders of industries, chief nurses, operations officers, plant managers, superintendents, and successful business owners – the images of success our future students desire to emulate. The quality of our future has always and continues to depend upon our youth.”

Brick inscriptions placed within the stadium are $1,000 each, bricks placed within 25 feet of any major entrance are $500, bricks from 25 feet to 150 feet are $250 each and bricks placed beyond 150 feet of any stadium entrance are $100.

Seat inscriptions are priced based on the row in which the seat is located. Rows one through eight on each side of the stadium are considered unique in honor of the eight young men who made up Prairie View’s first ‘freshman class.’ Seat inscriptions on rows one through eight are priced at $500 and all other seat inscriptions are priced at $250.

For more information, visit www.pvamf. org or call 800.707.8138 ext. 104. To donate online, visit www.HelpPVBuild.org.

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April-May 15, 2014

Technology in Today’s Business Environment

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By Kachelle Kelly Contributing Writer

he Internet and technology has completely changed the face of how we do business today! Without either, it’s hard to succeed and continue to grow your business online and offline. I personally wouldn’t know what to do without it and am excited about its continuous growth. Technology revolutionizes how we interact with customers, share on social media, take payments, introduce and sell products and services, learn new processes and much more. The wave of the future is here and one would be remiss to not embrace its many advantages.

Allow me to give you a glimpse inside of my business coaching practice and how technology ensures my business growth.

I use apps and technology quite frequently to communicate with clients and in running my business.

I primarily use my iPhone and iPad. Most mornings, I run my business as soon as I wake up while still lying in bed. No kidding! After reading my new book, Boss Women Pray, I immediately check my email and respond, compose notes for my day on the iPhone Notes app, post on social media and check my project management software for my to-do list for the day.

I use AirPrint to print any documents that I will need for that day to my printer located in the next room, my home office from my iPhone. I acquire nearly 100% of my business online utilizing the following apps: • For social media, I use the Facebook and Pages app, Instagram, LinkedIn, Pinterest and Twitter. I communicate with my subscriber list through the Constant Contact app. I hold live events and utilize the ticket barcode to check in at the door using the Eventbrite app. I organize my business and communicate with people assigned to projects in my business using the project management, TeamworkPM app.

• I utilize the Wells Fargo app for banking and taking photos of checks received to make deposits; Skype to hold

meetings, coach clients and communicate with my designers in India and others overseas; ClickWebinar to teach online classes; and Google Hangout to share information in a classroom format that is automatically shared on my YouTube channel.

• I use the HootSuite app to schedule my posts to communicate with those following me without having to sit online all day on social media, improving my time management.

• I record memos to send to people on my team using the Recorder app and the SoundCloud app to share my radio interviews on social media. I upload videos to my YouTube channel using the YouTube app. This allows potential clients to get a face-to-face feel of you and your business.

• I schedule appointments with prospects and current clients using the Coaches Console and TimeTrade app.

This also allows me to communicate and collect homework from my clients with a follow-up system. I take payments onsite using the Authorize.Net, Square and PayPal apps, and I share and save files using the Dropbox app, freeing hard drive space on my computers with the option of sharing large files to others by simply sending a link. This also protects you from computer crashes and losing important files when needed.

• To “brain dump” all of my ideas, I use a mind map system called SimpleMind. I’m visual and need to “see” my ideas to make them come to life! I send and receive signed contracts using the EchoSign app. I send special invitations using the Paperless Posts and Evite apps.

Every part of life and business is run from a smartphone, the internet and various applications. Technology creates a medium between you and the consumers, allowing them to make the conscious decision to work with you without having to step foot in an office or any physical location. Embrace technology and allow it to take you to higher heights in your business!

If you are interested in more ways to set business goals, prepare for the future or need business accountability, contact me for more information on coaching services at kk@kachellekelly.com

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April-May 15, 2014

Local Athlete Fuses his Love for Sports and God into Successful Business Venture

By Valerie Jones

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Associate Editor

anny Smith, 29, grew up playing basketball.

He dreamed of playing in the NBA since he was six years old. He was a top-ranked player in Texas and ranked in the country. Smith was Houston Player of the Year in 2003 while playing for Hightower High School and went on to play college basketball at the University of Houston.

Then life happened.

“I broke my foot going into my senior season and the doctors told me I would never play ball again,” Smith said. “That was heartbreaking because it meant my NBA dream was over.

I didn’t accept that report and I was blessed to be able to return to playing.”

Smith played in the NBA Development League and overseas in China, Korea and the Philippines before being offered a contract by the Sacramento Kings. Smith was excited because it was something he dreamed about and worked for his entire life.

Then life happened, again.

“Unfortunately, about a month later a player fell into my knee, tearing some cartilage and forcing me to have micro fracture surgery, which ended my career. I was devastated once again, but I prayed to God asking Him to reveal to me what He wanted me to do,” he said.

Shortly after, an idea for a Christian-based sports apparel brand popped into Smith’s head. d-mars.com: Tell me the vision behind Active Faith Sports.

Smith: Our brand is based on the verse from Colossians 3:17, which says, “In whatever you do, in word or deed, do it in the name of The Lord Jesus, giving thanks to the Father by him.” Basically, anything you do can be done for the glory of God. Whether you are an athlete, teacher, writer, etc., when we use the gifts God gave us and do it for His glory, we are exemplifying ACTIVE Faith. My vision for Active Faith is to become a Christian version of Nike and grow into a global brand that not only provides high-quality apparel, but also positively affects the world. We are based in Houston, but we have customers in 24 different countries. We have more than 100 athletes who play professional sports wearing our brand. d-mars.com: How did you pick the name Active Faith Sports?

Smith: I came up with the name Active Faith by writing down all the words which I felt described this Christian sports apparel company I was getting ready to start. When I saw the words ‘active’ and ‘faith’ next to each other, I knew that was it.

Both words perfectly described what this company is about. d-mars.com: How do you select the designs/styles for the merchandise?

Smith: Most of the time, the designs come from some vision or idea that my wife and I have for a product. We literally have hundreds of designs on our computers we go through, trying to decide what’s going to be next. We draw inspiration from so many different areas – whether it be a sermon at church, a bible verse, designs and styles from other sports apparel brands, etc. The “I AM” shirt is the first shirt in the Fearfully and Wonderfully Made Collection of our women’s line.

That comes from Psalm 139:14 and we felt like that statement represented our women’s line the best. Women have so many pressures to look like the models on television or in magazines, so we wanted to encourage our women that no matter your color, size, or position, in God’s eyes you are Fearfully and Wonderfully Made. The front of that shirt says “i am” and the back says “fearfully and wonderfully made.” d-mars.com: Why do you feel it’s important to include testimonials, not only yours, but of other athletes on your website?

Smith: Sharing my story has inspired and blessed others.

Also, many times the negative stories about athletes get publicized so much that people don’t hear about all of the great positive stories out there. We wanted to provide a platform in which athletes could share their stories in their own words

and for people to have access to this content that could inspire them. As Christians, part of our job is to be a witness and sometimes just sharing your story is a great way to tell someone else about Jesus Christ. We are so proud of all the athletes that are bold enough to use their platform to help spread the Gospel. d-mars.com: Is it important for you to reach out to youth,

the younger group of athletes? How do you plan to do so?

Smith: It is very important to reach the youth. That’s the great thing about sports. These kids look up to these athletes.

By showing these kids how these great Christian athletes carry themselves, it provides a positive role model for them to follow. We also plan to start camps and leagues that can provide a way for kids to stay active while being taught the Gospel. d-mars.com: Active Faith is looking for charities to which to donate. Why is it important to give back with your organization?

Smith: We believe giving back and helping those less fortunate than you is something that Christ would do. As a Christian company, our values are based on what Jesus did and how we should treat people according to His teaching.

We constantly donate time, money, apparel and resources to countless causes, from shelters and schools to mission trips and homeless people. d-mars.com: What’s a quote that you try to live by?

Smith: “God can bless you with a dream bigger than the one you had for yourself. To achieve it, you have to be ACTIVE in your FAITH.” – Lanny Smith This is something I’ve learned along my journey. It still hurts to this day to not be able to play ball or live my dream in the NBA, but God has a different plan for me. Sometimes our will for our lives does not match up with God’s will, but if we trust Him and have faith, the dream He gives us can be greater than what we had ourselves. Active Faith has already touched so many lives all over the world. The impact I am able to be part of with this brand far surpasses anything I would have been able to do if I played 10 years in the NBA. Stay Connected: Facebook: www.facebook.com/ActiveFaith Twitter: @active_faith Instagram: @activefaithsports Website: www.activefaithsports.com

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April-May 15, 2014

Government Procurement Connections Hosts Back to Basics 2014

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April-May 15, 2014

Did You Know?

“You won’t catch any fish watching my line.”

Meaning Spending time focusing on and concerning yourself with someone else’s business won’t help yours.

Yvette is the owner of a popular hair salon. Her salon has a great reputation, experienced stylists and a highend clientele. However, Yvette was infuriated when another hair salon opened down the street from hers. She feared she may lose some of her clients. So she began advertising in all of the publications the other salon was. She sent one of her own stylists to impersonate a potential client to gain insight. She even extended her hours of operation. Yvette became so consumed with what the other salon was doing that she forgot what made her own salon successful in the workplace. She over-extended her budget by purchasing more advertisements and she lost money trying to pay her overhead for extended hours. In the end, the competition wasn’t what hurt Yvette’s business; Yvette was.

M

adame C. J. Walker, born Sarah Breedlove, is considered the first female self-made millionaire in the United States.

She is most well-known for her line of beauty and hair care products for African American women. Madame Walker’s success in the hair-growing business stemmed from her own hair loss, which was the result of years of working in steamy vapors of chemical and fumes.

Madame Walker’s products are still available for purchase today and remain wildly popular among women of color.

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Attorney

LaToya Jarrett

Personalized, Devoted, Effective Representation.

Areas of Specialty Breach of Contract Property Tax Dispute Evictions Foreclosures Bankruptcy

LaToya Jarrett tj.jarrettlaw@gmail.com (7 13) 487-9897

Call Today!

1406 Southmore Blvd.

Houston, Tx 77004

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