Community Journal 45

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May - June 2015

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Community Builders

Being Best By Being Better

Pastor Alan He’s listed as 6 feet 3 inches tall and weighing 190 pounds, but he looks more like he’s 6 feet tall and 170 pounds, and that is being generous.

PAGE 10

Reverend William A. Lawson and Community Leaders Introduce the Lawson Academy By d-mars.com News Provider Recently, the William A. Lawson Institute for Peace and Prosperity (WALIPP) introduced the Lawson Academy.

PAGE 16

PAGES 4-5

Forrest Cooper: Keeping Houston Clean

In the Community…

PAGE 18, 20

PAGE 12 PAGE 8-9

The Texas Black Expo: Empowering Our Community Join our e-mail list for the latest updates @ d-mars.com

“Crowns” Cast Brings Down the House at Texas Southern University

We are all gifted. That is our inheritance.

- Ethel Waters

May - June 2015 3

Journal Behind The

Publisher’s Message

MR. D-MARS

SR. PUBLISHER Keith J. Davis, Sr.

SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT Kevin Davis

VICE PRESIDENT Kim Floyd

Whatever you accomplish, it’s important to remember your roots and the community you came from. A community is more than just the place you live, but a community is like a family. Many members of this community are like family to me and the d-mars.com team. I think of d-mars.com as a company not just for profit, but as a way to celebrate the community.

ACCOUNTING MANAGER Eugenie Doualla

Office Manager Johnny Ray Davis, Jr.

SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES C.T. Foster Eric D. Goodwine Tiffany Black

ASSOCIATE EDITOR Dawn Paul

PHOTOGRAPHY L.C. Poullard Grady Carter Tony Gaines Priscilla Graham

MULTIMEDIA DIRECTOR Andrea Hennekes

LAYOUT & GRAPHIC DESIGNER Angel Rosa

DISTRIBUTION Booker T. Davis, Jr. Rockie Hayden

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Pastor Alan Minister Eugenie Doualla Linda Lindsay Charlotte Jackson d-mars.com News Provider

The theme for this month’s edition of the Community Journal is Community Builders. This month’s cover story is on Forrest Cooper. He is a successful entrepreneur with a lucrative cleaning business, and he is keeping Houston businesses clean and making the environment better for our community. Stories like this and others in this journal will inspire you to use your business and skills to help build up the community in which you live.

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

Contents Forrest Cooper: Keeping Houston Clean........................................................................................................................................................................ 4-5 How Do You See Me?................................................................................................................................................................................................................6 The Texas Black Expo: Empowering Our Community................................................................................................................................................. 8-9 Being Best By Being Better..................................................................................................................................................................................................10 “Crowns” Cast Brings Down the House at Texas Southern University...................................................................................................................12 Giving Back to Your Community..........................................................................................................................................................................................14 Filling the Gap: Community Programs Feed Low-Income Children over the Summer.........................................................................................14 The Benefits of Hiring a Design Professional..................................................................................................................................................................15 Reverend William A. Lawson and Community Leaders Introduce the Lawson Academy...................................................................................16 How to Audit Your Home’s Energy Efficiency..................................................................................................................................................................18 Former United States Secretary of Education Dr. Rod Paige Speaks at Houston’s College of Biblical Studies.........................................19 In the Community…...........................................................................................................................................................................................................18, 20 Suburban Bayou City Chapter Top Ladies Of Distinction, Inc. & Top Teens Of America....................................................................................22

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4 May - June 2015

Forrest Cooper: Keeping Houston Clean

Forrest Cooper’s Cleaning Service Makes for a Healthier Houston

By Dawn Paul

Associate Editor

T

he cleaning service industry has changed over the years, and it is a very competitive industry. Standard cleaning with a mop and broom is a thing of the past when it comes to the current trends in the cleaning field. Here in Houston, Forrest Cooper has been keeping Houston clean for almost two decades. Cooper has partnered with HYCO Building Maintenance Commercial Cleaning Systems (HYCO) to provide quality cleaning services to Houston and the surrounding areas. His approach to cleaning is unique, in that it is not only making for a cleaner Houston,

but a healthier Houston.

When it comes to the cleaning industry, Cooper has a stellar reputation in our city.

Like many who start their own business, he had humble beginnings and invaluable learning experiences that helped his business get to the level it is today. In 1999, Cooper formed a contract with a business earning less than what he deserved. After that contract ended, he took a risk and wrote a letter to the City of Houston asking for help as a minority cleaning business looking for contract opportunities, and it paid off. His efforts with the City landed him his first contract with Luther’s Bar-BQ. Thinking outside the box was something Cooper always did, and it has created cleaning success for him. When it came to this cleaning venture, he took this thought

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process with him. Partnering with HYCO just made sense to Cooper, because of their reputation, high standards and approach when it comes to providing clients cleaning services. Cooper’s partnership has opened doors for him to gain more clients because of the extensive cleaning or janitorial services offered. Also, another important piece to their cleaning services is the maintenance of the overall health of the buildings. This is something that many cleaning services do not provide, and this is what makes Cooper stand out from the competition.

HYCO has built a reputation for providing accurate commercial cleaning services throughout Texas and the surrounding areas for professional office buildings, chemical plants, schools and medical facilities.

Their standards are high and with over 15

May - June 2015 5

years of experience in this field, they thrive on giving customers 100% every time.

With this formed partnership, Cooper never undermines price, value and effectiveness. Cooper and HYCO have the same vision when it comes to providing customers with cleaning services. Customers are viewed not just as another client or job, but as a lifetime partner. Cooper says, “We focus on more than just cleaning our customer’s building, but we see ourselves as the building manager. This type of thinking keeps us ahead of our competition, and has allowed us to add 80 new employees in the last two years. This is a testament to our dedication.” His management team communicates on a regular basis with customers, and their goal is to always exceed customer expectations.

An increasing concern for Houston is the environment. This concern has also increased the awareness of cleaning for healthy facilities and the role in maintaining a healthy building, since a cleaner and healthier workplace tends to experience less absenteeism among workers and employees. Cooper’s healthy approach to clean-

ing not only benefits his customers, but his cleaning staff as well. Cleaning for health is a priority for Cooper, and HYCO is wellaware of how he implements an effective cleaning program that promotes the health of building occupants and his cleaning staff. HYCO has develop a unique and beneficial approach to help keep medical facilities more clean and sanitized, assuring all areas are disinfected.

Cooper has stayed current on the trends and methods in the cleaning industry. The HYCO Clean Healthy Workplace Project is one of the exciting programs Cooper has implemented in his business, where he sends out educational tips to customers to help them work smarter and healthier.

Leaving food at the desk and hand washing are topics that have been addressed.

Also, Cooper provides tips to customers about the importance of using hand sanitizer and wiping off those “Hot-Spot” surfaces (desks, doorknobs, keyboards and phones) daily.

HYCO’s Green Approach to sustainable buildings provides multi-tier level benefits that guarantee thousands of dollars

in measurable savings per year for clients.

Cooper has adopted this approach. “Each and every mop head gets cleaned and rinsed each and every night before the shift is over, and this is one reason why the floors we clean stay looking beautiful. Also, our non-acid and acid bowl and restroom cleaner are certified as the best cleaners to use by FDA, and we haven’t had one single cleaning complaint in the last fifty-one months due to this approach,” says Cooper.

The Green Approach to cleaning your facility results in: • Reductions in electricity • Lower waste and water consumption • Lower utility demands • Improved quality of life Cooper is building mutually beneficial relationships with customers, employees, vendors and fulfilling his promise of providing top quality janitorial cleaning services through dedicated employees committed to integrity, honesty and hard work.

Cooper knows that customers have a full plate, and he sees his cleaning service as a way to make life easier for his customers.

Services can be customized, because each customer need is different. He takes pride in exceeding expectations and going that extra mile for customers. Cooper has created a cleaning empire because he continues to work to improve his business.

Cooper’s claim for each and every client is utmost satisfaction, by being careful, highly efficient and providing them the most professional and friendly services done by his well-trained and uniformed staff. Cooper does not believe in being reactive, but proactive, and that is another reason he formed a partnership with HYCO. HYCO’s driving element is to ensure a clean and healthy work environment. This is achieved by providing proactive measurement goals, and employee input is just as important as customer input. Cooper works hard to deliver what he promises.

Cooper says, “We are more than just a cleaning service that takes out the trash and dusts. I take pride in the fact that I

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can provide my customers with extensive cleaning services.” Cooper respects HYCO, because it is a respected company that provides more than just a clean building, but they maintain the overall health of the building. They provide a health tracking report, mold analysis, building repairs, floor maintenance, carpet maintenance, window maintenance, an odor control program and Johnson & Johnson green cleaning products. Also, there is an exclusive office cleaning classroom training for employees to ensure proper and safety cleaning measures are done for customers.

No matter the size of the facility or job, Cooper delivers dedicated, quality and honest janitorial services. “No job is too big or too small, because we treat every customer like they are our biggest customer.

We pay attention to detail,” Cooper expresses. Cooper also has a dedicated department that just focuses on post clean-up for construction companies. Reed Construction, LSI Construction and Jacobs Construction are some of Cooper’s construction clients.

Cooper knows that business is important, but he also has a spirit for the Houston community. He employs Houstonians and sees his business as helping make a cleaner Houston that benefits the community. Cooper is an active member in the Greater Houston Chamber of Commerce, the Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce, the Houston East End Chamber of Commerce and the Woodlands Chamber of Commerce. Cooper is also a member of the Houston Minority Business Council and is certified with the City of Houston.

HYCO’s partnership allows Cooper to have competitive prices. He constantly reinvests back into the people who help his company grow. Listening to customers has been key in his competitive pricing. The University of Texas, Shell and Technip Refinery are just some of the clients that Cooper services, and his client roster grows continuously. With HYCO, Cooper successfully provides an extensive and impressive list of cleaning services. Cooper has 2 locations in Houston and Austin, and has plans for expansion. For more information on HYCO and Forrest Cooper, please visit www.usfacilitytec.com.

6 May - June 2015

How Do You See Me? Minister Eugenie Doualla Contributing Writer

“All the ways of a man are pure in his own eyes, but the Lord weighs the thoughts and intents of heart.”

“Roll your works upon the Lord [commit and trust them wholly to Him; he will cause your thoughts to become agreeable to His will, and] so shall your plans be established and succeed.”

– Proverbs 16:2-3

I

t is so important that we continue to improve ourselves.

Although it is true that no one is perfect, we can better ourselves, and there is always an area in our lives where we can do better. Have you ever really been open and honest with yourself about the changes that need to be made for a better you? I want to challenge you to speak to those close

friends in your life and have a real and honest conversation about how they view you. It may be hard, but it can be very beneficial, because you will get an objective view. We need to recognize three trustworthy and honest friends around us, and take time to sit down with them several times a year and ask them, “How do you see me?” It’s important that we have this conversation not only with those people we value most in our lives, but also God. Whatever their answers, put them in prayer by asking God to open your spiritual heart to see and understand what He wants you to see and understand. It could be a good checkup for your spirit.

My prayer today is, “Father in Heaven, we thank you that we have you as God in our lives. You always call us to triumph, and you will never forsake us. Therefore, we do not lean on our own understanding. Thank you for always making provisions for us to understand your will through your words and sometimes through the people you place in our lives. Help us to surrender to you alone, our ambitions, thoughts and understanding.

We pray this in the precious name of Jesus Christ, amen.”

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May - June 2015 7

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8 May - June 2015

The Texas Black Expo:

Empowering Our Community

By Dawn Paul

Associate Editor

C

reated in 2007, the Texas Black Expo is a nonprofit organization that operates with the mission to foster business growth and development. The Texas Black Expo brings one of the most anticipated events for Houstonians, and this year they continue to bring big names, but President Jerome Love sees the Texas Black Expo as a relevant event designed to inform and economically empower our community.

The Texas Black Expo was formed with a desire to brand the organization as more than a once-per-year tradeshow organization. Though Houston looks forward to the event in June, the Texas Black Expo focus on delivering year-round community development events that connect Texas businesses to the communities they serve, while also mentoring and shaping the next generation of entrepreneurs.

The Texas Black Expo has established affiliate chapters throughout the state of Texas. These chapters are dedicated to the Texas Black Expo’s mission, and they are committed to fostering the same organizational initiatives as the headquarters organization located in Houston, Texas.

These chapters allow the Texas Black Expo to expand.

Love spent a brief time in corporate America before co-founding the Texas Black Expo. His experience in corporate motivated him to invest in his own self and motivated him to create something great that would help stimulate the growth in the urban communities. Love says, “In my experience, I’ve seen that the corporate world can lend an influential hand in advocating and improving the economic situation faced by minority populations that live in Texas’ multicultural landscape.” By supporting and tapping into communities in need, Love believes businesses can definitely improve health, income and

equality issues that are sometimes seen in Texas. He feels it is vitally important that individuals in minority populations are a part of this discussion and also a part of the corporate world. The mission of the Texas Black Expo is ultimately to help businesses, inspire youth and build better lives. “We strive to enhance the quality of life for all individuals living in urban communities,” Love says.

Houston may know the Texas Black Expo for a great concert and festival, but the Texas Black Expo provides so much more. The Texas Black Expo is all about empowering the Houston community in a way that can appeal to a wide range of people. While the entertainment lineup for this year’s event is spectacular, they also have events geared towards empowering businesses and inspiring the community. Not only can attendees expect performances from legends in the music world, but also discussions with legends in the business world. To impact the community in a positive way, they always seek to draw in a diverse audience in terms of age, gender, socioeconomic levels, race, ethnicity and nationality. Love expresses, “When we have the Texas community come together in a meaningful way, we can see a massive improvement in the quality of life for everyone, and that is the spirit of the Texas Black Expo.”

Every year the Texas Black Expo continues to grow and reach a broader audience. Their outreach and initiatives have paid off, and they are now the largest African-American tradeshow in the state of Texas. The Texas Black Expo prides itself on being a unique event catered towards creating a positive influence on our state. Overall, they have grown not only in size, but they have grown in how they have made an impact as well. Since the

start, one of their goals has been to touch the lives of individuals, families and businesses owners in a way that is empowering and meaningful. The Texas Black Expo has preserved their original intentions, and the leadership has been very excited to see their influence grow and expand to the thousands of people that attend the event each year.

The Texas Black Expo has a great reputation, and they are known around Texas and the nation for pulling some big celebrity names. Love says, “One of the best ways to unite and inspire the community is to bring in leaders from the business and entertainment world.” Every year the Texas Black Expo goes the extra mile to bring in special guests for the attendees. This year is no different than previous years, and their star-studded lineup includes Keith Sweat and Chante Moore. The Texas Black Expo has established itself as an essential pillar in the community. Ultimately, the Texas Black Expo knows that they have built a

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credible and positive reputation on a local and national level.

Moving forward, the Texas Black Expo’s goals are to continue empowering the community and to build better lives in Texas. In addition, the Texas Black Expo would also like to see an increased participation across the state. They love the large Houston audience that attends the event each year, but they also would like to see an overall increased statewide attendance.

The Texas Black Expo realizes that if they want to improve the community, it has to be a collective effort. Their impact would be even more powerful if they had the urban communities across Texas unify to expand positive social change.

Sponsors and exhibitors are vital to the Texas Black Expo and to the community as a whole. By connecting with the Texas Black Expo, organizations have the ability to tap into a powerful buying market and to make positive improvements in Texas.

Their sponsors and exhibitors recognize the importance of being socially responsible and the importance of supporting their community.

The Texas Black Expo is highly anticipated, and locals view it as an integrated part of Houston’s community fabric. The Texas Black Expo has been successfully serving the African-American Texas business community for years. Love says, “We welcome people across the state and country to join in this year’s festivities. It will be fun, educational and empowering. We are going to have a variety of events, such as concerts, workshops, panels, a tradeshow, seminars and much more. I encourage anyone interested in having fun while improving the community to come to the Texas Black Expo.” For more information on the Texas Black Expo, please visit www.texasblackexpo.com.

May - June 2015 9

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10 May - June 2015

Being Best By Being Better Pastor Alan

H

Contributing Writer

e’s listed as 6 feet 3 inches tall and weighing 190 pounds, but he looks more like he’s 6 feet tall and 170 pounds, and that is being generous. No, he is not the physical prototype of the image of a player in the National Basketball Association (NBA). Yet Stephen Curry the point guard for the Golden State Warriors of the NBA has proven that all things are possible to those who believe.

Contrary to pop culture, image isn’t everything, but inspiration is.

Inspired by his father former NBA player Dale Curry, he has beaten the odds, obstacles and opposition that stood in his way. Curry has now elevated his game from good to great.

To confirm his course on the court, the NBA recently named Curry the league’s Most Valuable Player.

Curry’s rise to the pinnacle and platform to become the NBA‘s best player was not a smooth transition.

Throughout his professional and collegiate career, he was always known as a good player, but somehow good was never really good enough. He was not a coveted catch in his college recruiting class. He was not really considered a prized possession in the NBA draft.

Being overlooked is what inspired Curry to beat the odds, obstacles and opposition he still faced even in the most respected basketball league in the world. Curry decided to change the game by committing himself to becoming the very best player he could be.

In the game of life if we steal from Curry this mindset, we too can start being the best by being better. Here are three proven principles that can propel us to become the Most Valuable Player in the game of life: First, we must have FAITH. Curry says every time he knocks down a spectacular shot, he pounds his chest and points to the sky. This act is an acknowledgment that God has given him the gift to play the game of basketball. If we want to become the best by being better, we must begin to acknowledge our creator for the gifts He has given us to succeed in life.

Second, we must have PASSION. Because Curry was so short and un-

derweight in high school, he shot the ball from his waist. Unfortunately, that kind of form would not be successful on the next level. If Curry wanted to be great, he would have to make the commitment to change his form and be passionate throughout the process of change. Curry realized what his dream was to make it to the NBA, yet he also realized in order for the dream to become a reality, he had to work harder and not settle for just being good. Do you have the passion to persevere through the pain, problems and processes that it takes to reach the pinnacle and platform of being the best?

Third, we must have THE WILL TO SUCCEED. Curry was not the heir apparent. He was not the “next big thing.” He wasn’t ranked in high school. He wasn’t heavily recruited.

He wasn’t in the spotlight. He didn’t receive a lot of media attention.

He wasn’t the most popular player.

However, Curry possessed something the majority of even the most gifted players don’t have; he had THE WILL TO SUCCEED. It doesn’t matter how we grew up, if our father wasn’t there to raise us or if we’re lacking in a certain area.

If we have FAITH, PASSION and THE WILL TO SUCCEED, we will be the best by being better.

Pastor Alan is a minister at Mount Corinth Church located at 4901 Providence Street, Houston, Texas 77020.

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May - June 2015 11

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12 May - June 2015

“Crowns” Cast Brings Down the House at Texas Southern University By d-mars.com News Provider

T

he highly anticipated return of the national stage play “Crowns” at Texas Southern University proved to be a theatrical and entertainment masterpiece. “Crowns” was produced by Texas Southern University’s H.A.T.S. & T.I.E.S. Committee and title sponsored

by Coca-Cola. The gospel infused musical, which included Grammy nominee Dottie Peoples and some of Houston’s top vocalists, presented two soul stirring performances that kept the audience captivated and on their feet.

Nearly 2,000 TSU supporters filed into Sawyer Auditorium for the two performances - hats were everywhere and in exquisite variety. H.A.T.S. & T.I.E.S. founder Eva Pickens served as the emcee while TSU’s First Lady Mrs. Docia Rudley and TSU Provost Dr. James Ward welcomed and thanked the audience for their attendance and support of Texas Southern University. TSU’s President Dr. John Rudley welcomed guests as well, with heartfelt appreciation.

The ladies from the 40 Plus Models stole the pre-show as they graced the stage one by one twirling, twisting and modeling their glorious crowns. At intermission and after hearing from headlining Gospel sensation Dottie Peoples, Congresswoman Shelia Jackson Lee presented Peoples with a Congressional resolution for her gift of providing thought provoking inspirational music throughout her 30 plus year career as a Gospel singer. Jackson-Lee also presented a proclamation to the H.A.T.S. & T.I.E.S. Committee and commended the members for their work to raise money for student scholarships and support programs at TSU. When the curtains were raised, “Crowns” began when Yolanda, (played

by High School for Performing and Visual Arts student Gerra Gistand) a high school girl from Brooklyn, devastated by the murder of her beloved brother started hanging out with the wrong crowd and was sent down South to live with her hat-wearing, hymn-singing grandmother.

As the play moved, Yolanda was gradually transformed along the way and imparted wisdom of her grandmother’s church-going, hat-wearing friends; women whose hats and hat etiquette has attitude in a slew of personal stories from the civil rights movement, to the sit-in’s of the 60’s, to churches in small towns, to black college campuses, and to baptisms and funerals. Throughout the play there were old familiar songs like, “Mary Don’t You Weep,” “Wade in the Water,” “His Eye Is On The Sparrow,” “Run and Tell That,” “Wade in the Water,” and countless others that led the audience to become a church congrega-

tion, joining in the chorus as actors and actresses led the various verses.

LaTonya Earl (Velma, the good-time girl who has gone straight) and Gwen Harris (Mabel, the Preacher’s Wife) were among the standouts, drawing interest from the local population of their Houston-based churches, choirs, co-workers, friends and family members; TSU Student Government President Terrance Bolton (Pastor) fulfilled

his final obligation to his university on a high note; Takisha Bendy (Jeanette); TSU alumnus was extraordinary and energized the crowd from the moment she hit the stage; and Manson Bracy Johnson (Husband) rounded out the cast with strong vocals and a huge stage presence. Cheveria Williams was the stage manager and Jasmine Carter, assistant stage manager. They were excellent in their roles. Charla Parker-Thompson, LaTanya Perry, Kimberly Edwards, Eric T. White, and Tomeka Robinson made up the choir ensemble.

Keith Eason of Ft. Bend Church was the musical director over musicians; Nelson Lefluer, keyboard; Shamaal Blaise, drums; Jason Perry, percussion and sound effects; Omar Perez, bass;

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and Stephanie Blue, pianist/keyboard.

Dottie Peoples sang her signature hits, “He’s an On Time God,” and “He Meant It for Me.” She treated the audience to her new release, “I Got This,” which got the audience clapping and shouting each time she appeared on stage.

“We believe that we’ve found a niche to continue to bring this wonderful play to the campus of Texas Southern University. Our goals were realized – that of bringing blended local talent of our TSU students, alumni and former students, and the community together for a memorable, enjoyable and worthwhile initiative,” states Eva Pickens, who served as the Executive Producer. To read more about Texas Southern University, please visit www.tsu.edu.

May - June 2015 13

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14 May - June 2015

Giving Back to Your Community

S

By Charlotte Jackson Contributing Writer

o many events go on during the summer, that it is hard to imagine a group of professional athletes from around the nation taking time to reach out to youth that they may never see again. Yet, this year on June 20, for the 9th time, NFL Defensive End Cory Redding will not only return to neighborhood he grew up in, but he will be bringing a variety of other men who are committed to seeing youth learn, laugh and look forward to returning back to their community someday to give back.

The three D’s---Desire, Discipline and Dedication are the advertised characteristics that are promoted on paper, as well as at his 3D Camp, but anyone who knows Cory, knows there are so many more lessons taught. After time on the field with basic drills and training, the participants are brought into the Galena Park ISD Locker Room. The excitement is obvious as the youth squirm around

trying to get close enough to the men they often see weekly on television, and as Cory begins to settle the room, one by one, these giants open up and share deep emotions and personal testimonies about the road from youth to where they are today.

Over the past few years, I have been blessed to serve as the Registration Team Leader of this camp. I’m inspired when I see so many of these men share that they refused to be defined by the statistics that are out there, especially about young Black men who grew up with an

absent father. Each athlete has a story of struggle and success. Each man shares that he would never be where he is today had it not been for the support of friends, teachers, coaches, pastors and the community. Each year, there are camp sponsors from the community that contribute to the success of the camp. Cory is quick to acknowledge that it is important to give back to where you started. He tells stories about neighborhood parents who helped to keep him on the right path. He thanks his family for always believing in him and friends who he met at North Shore High School, University of Texas or at one of the professional teams he has played with, who are ready at the drop of hat to step in and help with the camp. You cannot be around Cory for more than a few minutes without hearing him acknowledge that even with all of these great people, he would never have made it to enter into his 13th season in the NFL without the grace of God. During the course of the year, it does a heart good to run into the youth or even their parents and hear about the previous year’s camp impact on them.

Seeing some of those same youth now working in the community, as well as volunteering with youth sports, tutoring programs, church groups and in various other groups, they are always quick to point out the impact of Cory and the 3D Camp.

Filling the Gap: Community Programs Feed Low-Income Children over the Summer By d-mars.com News Provider

W

hen summer comes along, kids and teens have plenty to look forward to: pool time, sports camp, three months of freedom and no homework. But some low-income kids might actually be looking forward to their next meal.

During the school year, more than 20 million low-income children receive free or reduced-price meals through the National School Lunch Program, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Research shows children without proper nourishment do poorly in school and have lower academic achievement, leading many organizations to help keep students fueled during and after the school day.

Seventh grader R.J. is one student who benefits from these free meals. With eight young siblings at home, R.J.’s mom has difficulty keeping food on the table. R.J. visits the YMCA in Rapid City, South Dakota, to enjoy a healthy, nutritious meal after school.

Once the last bell rings and the school year comes to a close, R.J. loses access to

the free or reduced-price meals on which he relies during the school year. He’s not alone. In fact, only 12 percent of these kids and teens have access to free summertime meals and snacks through the USDA’s Summer Food Service Program.

“The benefits of healthy and reliable meals don’t start and end with the school year,” says Stacey McDaniel, technical advisor, Food and Nutrition Support Program at the YMCA of the USA. “Without proper nourishment in the summer, kids risk falling into a summertime slump and returning to school in the fall at a disadvantage compared to their classmates.”

In order to combat hunger and fill this summertime gap, community organizations step up to make sure young people in underserved areas have what they need to thrive. Community leaders work with teachers from local schools to identify which kids and teens need assistance and educate them on the programs available in their neighborhood.

One established option is the Y’s Summer Food Program, supported by the Walmart Foundation. Now in its fifth year, the program serves kids ages 18 and under nutritious meals, like turkey sandwiches with green beans and mixed fruit cocktail and snacks. The program also includes activities to help them keep their

bodies and minds active.

Last summer, the free program served children at 1,100 Y sites across the country. This summer, the reach will be even greater as the program expands to twice as many locations. This year, the Y anticipates serving 4.75 million meals and snacks to more than 200,000 kids across the country.

Not every child has access to transportation to get to and from a Y site every day.

The Y removes this barrier by hosting the Summer Food Program at parks and low-

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income apartment complexes, too.

Other organizations and nonprofits take a similar route to bring nutritious food straight to those in need by distributing meals in parks where kids gather -- or via food trucks. Fueling up on free, healthy meals and fresh produce also promotes the values of healthy eating, combatting concerns about childhood obesity.

“Thanks to these programs, kids don’t need to worry about finding their next meal and can instead simply enjoy being kids,” McDaniel says. – BPT

May - June 2015 15

The Benefits of Hiring a Design Professional

B

By Linda Lindsay

Contributing Writer

eing successful in the design business, I know that hiring a design professional can be very beneficial. I have many people who want to hire a designer, but don’t know where to start. Your professional of choice should provide professional design services and budgeting. Your design team should be able to oversee each and every detail, saving you time, worry and money. Hiring a designer helps ensure your project will be executed with integrity in a timely manner.

Designer professional services should include, but are not limited to the following:

• Interior Design • Space Planning • Project Management • Color Theory • LEED Awareness and Advanced

Knowledge of Green/Sustainable Design • Renderings & 3D Perspectives • Custom Furniture, Fixture, Textile & Carpet Design • Arts & Accessories Curating • Tableware/Amenity Design & Selection • Home Additions • Staging • Identifying the proper products to enhance your personality and lifestyle

Please remember: • Design is such an intriguing profession. Not only do we need to be creative, but we need to be able to spend large amounts of time with many different kinds of people.

• We sometimes do need to redirect our fearful clients to make positive decisions.

• When we give the clients confidence in their decision making process and gently direct them to good choices, we can be assured of a satisfied customer.

• Events can occur through the process of designing a space, which a designer has little control of when working with outside contractors. If your designer can put the client in a position of reassurance, that all will be completed based on his/her prior references, and you know you are in good hands.

• In this business, anything can be

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fixed with time and money, if planned properly.

• Design terms should be versatile to each project – anything from hourly to renovation construction management fees.

• The designer is someone you work with who can refine key elements to scale, color and texture, allowing for a warm comfortable space.

• Designers should be able to use furniture and textile patterns to create drama in a space.

• Your designer will introduce sophisticated color pallets on walls and fabrics to add richness to a room.

• Make sure your designer learns in the beginning of the project the details on how the space is used – commercial or residential.

• A designer should ask the questions of what will be the level of formalities, and what is the practical use of space.

If you are thinking of upgrading or downgrading your lifestyle, I highly recommend you hire a professional designer who is a perfect match for you.

Therefore, you should interview more than one design professional to make sure you two are compatible.

Remember, it’s not only about making a space beautiful, it’s also about function, so choose wisely. It is a big investment, no matter how large or small. Make it a smooth transition from old to new.

16 May - June 2015

Reverend William A. Lawson and Community Leaders Introduce the Lawson Academy By d-mars.com News Provider

R

ecently, the William A. Lawson Institute for Peace and Prosperity (WALIPP) introduced the Lawson Academy.

The introduction of the Lawson Academy was an intimate event, with community leaders, stakeholders and media. The ceremony includes a tour of the Lawson Academy, located at 3129 Southmore Blvd., and Reverend William A. Lawson talked on the importance of the academy’s curriculum to build student success.

The Lawson Academy operates two middle-school (grades 6-8) single-gender campuses and uses a creative academic curriculum to build student success and to develop the whole person. Throughout the years, the school has produced hundreds of successful students that have attended some of the nation’s finest universities. With the new brand identity and re-introduction to the public, the board of directors and staff of the Lawson Academy has a goal to honor the legacy of Reverend Lawson and reinforce their commitment to service, reflective of the life of Reverend Lawson.

Dr. Marthea Raney is the Lawson Academy Principal and says, “Our

academy has always been committed to providing advanced opportunities for children in underserved communities.”

Dr. Raney adds, “We think it’s equally as important to instill a commitment to service and selflessness within the walls of our school; and that starts with understanding the many contributions that Revered Lawson, and others like him have made to this great city and this community in particular. It’s a constant reminder to always lead with character.”

In 1996 the Houston community honored Reverend Lawson with the creation of WALIPP, a non-profit organization that houses the Lawson Academy and a 50-unit apartment facility for seniors in Houston’s Third Ward. Rev. Lawson’s work in ministry dates back to

the Civil Rights era, when he established Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church in June of 1962. The Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church has grown to more than 5,000 members and has become a cornerstone

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in the African-American community.

Reverend Lawson has been involved in advocacy activities for the underserved and his work and legacy will continue with the Lawson Academy.

May - June 2015 17

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18 May - June 2015

How to Audit Your Home’s Energy Efficiency By d-mars.com News Provider

A

home that wastes energy can put significant strain on your budget. Extremely cold winter temperatures and scorching summers, together with a poorly performing thermal system will drive monthly heating and cooling costs higher than expected.

So what can you do to cut the waste and the expense? For starters, clean all the filters in your heating and cooling equipment. This helps to improve the efficiency of your home; however, the best way to tackle your home’s energy inefficiencies head on is to understand your home’s overall performance with an energy audit.

To perform the audit, a certified Home Energy Rater will conduct a series of tests to provide an overall efficiency rating in much the same way

that household appliances are rated.

Armed with this information, you can make home improvement decisions that further boost your home’s energy efficiency.

One common energy audit test is a door blower, or airflow, test. A large fan is used to pull air out of the house and create negative pressure inside. The higher air pressure outside the home then flows into the home through the unsealed cracks and openings. To detect where these air leaks are located, the auditor will use a smoke pencil. A well-sealed home should have no air leaks. The auditor may also complete a comprehensive infrared scan of your home using an infrared camera. These scans provide a clear image of where the inefficiencies in your home are.

One of the easiest ways to dramatically improve the overall performance of your home following an energy audit is to assess your home’s existing insula-

tion. Insulation and a tight air seal are vital to keeping the temperature inside your home comfortable and consistent all year round.

Another effective solution that offers immediate and long-term cost savings is replacing your home’s traditional fibrous insulation with high-performance spray foam insulation. Spray foam insulation, such as Icynene, is a wise investment for homeowners who want to make significant improvements to their home that have a long-term,

positive impact. Able to perform in all climates, spray foam insulation allows homeowners to utilize air-conditioning systems more efficiently throughout the summer and their furnaces during winter.

As a modern insulation solution, spray foam insulation expands rapidly to completely seal a home’s walls, floors and ceilings and prevent air leakage.

Insulation experts from Icynene note that quality spray foam insulation can noticeably reduce monthly cooling and heating costs, in some cases by up to 50 percent. Additionally, spray foam insulation helps minimize random airborne moisture and pollutants from entering the home. This is ideal for anyone suffering from seasonal allergies, an important consideration as spring arrives.

For more information on how spray foam insulation can help homeowners optimize the efficiency of their home, visit www.icynene.com. – BPT

In the Community…

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100 Black Men of Greater Metropolitan Houston

Diamonds and Pearls’ Mother’s Day Celebration

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Sparkles of Life

May - June 2015 19

Former United States Secretary of Education Dr. Rod Paige Speaks at Houston’s College of Biblical Studies By d-mars.com News Provider

T

he College of Biblical Studies recently held their 2014-2015 Commencement at Houston’s First Baptist Church, where the sanctuary was filled with hundreds of family members and well-wishers, who came to support the graduating class, who received their long-awaited undergraduate and graduate degrees from CBSHouston.

Dr. William Blocker, president of CBS, charged the entire audience, while personally speaking of the tremendous honor he has to serve each student at CBS, as one of the “Premier Nationally accredited Christian Bible Colleges in the Southern Region - as the 4th President of CBS.” Dr. Blocker also conveyed to the graduating class during his remarks of the great compassion and passion he has for CBS-Houston, CBSBoard Members, CBS-Alumni, CBS-Faculty/ Staff, partnering churches and denominations, and all Houstonians. He also spoke about the wealth of diversity that Houston offers, promoting greater unity, equipping future leaders, and most importantly, positively impacting lives for service and the Glory of God. Dr. Blocker had one of his Higher Education colleagues as this year’s Commencement Speaker – Former U.S. Secretary of Education, the

7th U.S. Secretary of Education during President George W. Bush Administration, Dr. Rod Paige. Dr. Paige also served as Former Houston Independent School Superintendent (HISD), the nation’s seventh largest school district.

Dr. Paige electrified the graduating class, speaking of his journey and the impact his Christian parents, a host of Christian leaders, and his personal studies of the Bible and scriptures had in the shaping of his life and the enlightening impact of his personal spiritual education-reform-leadership-trajectory - provided him early on in his childhood and by spiritual design and providence, reaching the Whitehouse, as United States Secretary of Education, in 2001.

Dr. Paige, stated, “The College of Biblical Studies is one of today’s most important Christian Bible Colleges in the nation, through its exceptional use of the Bible being taught and integrated into every course study and classroom curriculum taught by highly gifted faculty members, under the direction of a transformative president like Dr. Blocker, whose servant leadership style and administration skills are being used to impact the City of Houston and our diverse communities unlike ever before.”

The College of Biblical Studies-Houston provides biblically based education for the Body of Christ, with primary focus on African-Americans and other ethnic minority groups, and equips its students with a biblical worldview for Christian service to the church and the world.

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20 May - June 2015

In the Community…

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Kashmere High School Mentoring Event

Council Member Dwight Boykins

Audrey H. Lawson IMPACT Awards Luncheon and Fashion Show

Boots and Ball Gowns Gala

Kappa Alpha Psi (HAC) Southern College Tour

St. Hope Foundation Greenspoint Health Center

Lemonade Day

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Barbara Jordan Endeavors Scholarship Brunch

May - June 2015 21

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22 May - June 2015

Suburban Bayou City Chapter Top Ladies Of Distinction, Inc. & Top Teens Of America

By Lady Bessie B Fletcher Suburban Bayou City Chapter (SBCC) of Top Ladies of Distinction, Inc (TLOD) and Top Teens of America (TTA) are on the move in the Houston communities. SBCC was founded by Lady Minnie Thomas and is celebrating its 10th year anniversary (2005-2015).

The Annual Spring Inductions for TTA was held Saturday, May 16, 2015 and the TLOD Induction was held Saturday, June 6, 2015. The five (5) Ladies inducted were Ladies: Cassandra Scott, Trina Samuel -Edmond, Jeremekia Franklin, Charaine Ferguson and Ramona Dibble.

You will see these Ladies working in the Houston communities soon.

The Ladies & Teens have a passion to give back and serve the community.

TLOD’s mission is to enhance and enrich the lives of youth and adults through national and community-based programs and projects. We measure our success by the improved quality of life experienced by the people we serve.

A variety of programs and projects are planned annually around the five (5) Thrusts of TLOD, Inc. - Top Teens, Senior Citizens, Status of Women, Community Beautification and Community Partnerships.

The Ladies & Teens collect school supplies for needy students and support community partnerships for cultural arts.

The programs and projects include the following: The Derrick Thomas Foundation for scholarships, MLK Youth Day Parade, ‘Dress for Success’, Sisters Network Breast Cancer Awareness Walk, March of Dimes, National Association of Colored People (NAACP), National Council of Negro Women (NCNW), United Negro College Fund (UNCF), Memorial Hermann - Ronald McDonald House Christmas Tree Beautification, National Lemonade Day, Houston Dynasty Youth of District Eastern Stars and Highland Heights Elementary for Literacy.

SBCC Ladies and Teens also visited & served senior citizens at Garden Terrace of Houston Nursing Home and provided much-welcomed activities and interaction. They also assisted at the Houston Food Bank on Comcast Care Day (Comcast photographs by Roswitha Vogler) and still managed social time at the Mardi Gras fundraisers for college scholarships.

Ongoing programs and projects are important to the fulfillment of TLOD’s mission. As “shapers of change,” members of Top Ladies of Distinction, Inc. have, through each administration, continued their efforts toward “Serving Youth and Adults.”

Lady Bessie B Fletcher Recording Secretary 2013 - 2015 PR Co-Chair 2013 - 2015 Suburban Bayou City Chapter Top Ladies of Distinction, Inc

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May - June 2015 23

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24 May - June 2015

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