Community Journal 21

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May 2013

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21 st Edition

SPRING INTO A RENEWED COMMUNITY

INSIDE

Song Could Inspire A National Movement, “Create A Safer Place For Me” The song and the movement is bringing positive reinforcement as soloists respond to the question asked in the song, where does a safe place start...

PAGE 5

The Tom Joyner Foundation Fantastic Voyage Presented by Ford

By Kelly Harrington Brands utilized cross platform marketing using on-air radio marketing through the Tom Joyner Morning Show, online via BlackAmericaWeb. com, and through consumer integration on the cruise ship.

PAGE 10

The historical meeting of great minds between Farouk Shami, Mayoral Candidate Ben Hall and MR. D-MARS. FUN: The New Byword for the Library

By Melissa Perkins Has anyone checked out what’s going on at the Houston Central Public Library lately?

Well, if you haven’t, you should, and you’ll be pleasantly surprised.

PAGE 14

Dancing with the Houston Stars Release and Photos

The War on Error

Song Could Inspire A National Movement, “Create A Safer Place For Me”

By Shanedria Wagner Though budget cuts, school violence, and high turnover pose threats, errors of judgment make us our own worst enemies.

PAGE 15

“Spring is nature’s way of saying, ‘Let’s party!” ~ Robin Williams

May 2013

Behind The

Journal

3.

Publisher’s Message

Keith J. Davis, Sr.

SR. PUBLISHER Keith J. Davis, Sr. SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT Kevin Davis

This month’s issue is titled Spring Into a Renewed Community. In the Springtime, new life takes precedence over death and the past. We are gifted with the resurrection of valued pastimes and the beauty that accompanies new life. Let’s not let this sweet season of renewal escape our community. Take advantage of this second chance to create, build, and refurbish our neighborhoods. Pull out your picks and shovels and make them beautiful again, figuratively and literally. There is nothing like a well kept yard and a well kept heart of a people united for change. If you don’t like what you see in your community, you possess the power to change it. Don’t think about it too long, “Just Do It!” Winter is only a couple of seasons away.

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

VICE PRESIDENT Kimberly Floyd MANAGING EDITOR Sharon Jenkins OPERATIONS COORDINATOR Johnny Ray Davis, Jr. ACCOUNTING MANAGER Eugenie Doualla

CONTENTS

SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE C.T. Foster Eric D. Goodwine S. Angela White

The Perfect Marriage Between Industry and Community, Farouk Systems .............................

Song Could Inspire A National Movement, “Create A Safer Place For Me” ...........................

The Beat of a Different Drummer ...........................................................................................

Dancing With the Houston Stars ............................................................................................

Ben Hall in the Community .....................................................................................................

The Tom Joyner Foundation Fantastic Voyage Presented by Ford ........................................

Advance Directives: 3L Secret Strategies ...........................................................................................

Who is Dr. Richard W. Walker Jr.? ........................................................................................................

2013 Annual Clinical Intervention Foundation Inc. Kids Elite Retreat ............................................

FUN: The New Byword for the Library ...................................................................................

You Can Now TweetMyJob in Houston ..................................................................................

Disaster Preparedness: A Crucial Key to Community Survival ..............................................

The War on Error ....................................................................................................................

Parenting Tips: Giving Advice to Your Teenager ...............................................................................

The Buffalo Soldiers 9th & 10th Cavalry Junior Troopers Fundraiser ...........................................

Lasting Impressions Dental Group: Free Dental Care for Patients in Need ..............................

TMAP .....................................................................................................................................

Act Now: The Art of Getting Into Action and Getting Things Done by ....................................

Texas Women’s Empowerment Foundation Sister to Sister Celebration ...............................

Why Should You Get Involved With Your Community? They Need You! .................................

Who’s Who in Black Houston Networking Event & Unveiling Reception ....................................

PHOTOGRAPHY L.C. Poullard Grady Carter Tony Gaines MULTIMEDIA DIRECTOR Andrea Hennekes LAYOUT & GRAPHIC DESIGNER Ferland Antwine Yong Kwon DISTRIBUTION Booker T. Davis, Jr. Rockie Hayden CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Sharon C. Jenkins Kelly Harrington Melissa Perkins www.PRWeb.com Frenetta Tate Shanedria Wagner Michelle Vera Long Yun Siang S. Angela White Joe Murray Michele Weiner-Davis Jillian Smith Elizabeth Doherty Thomas Jacqueline Quinn Melanie Bragg Dr. Anjanette Wyatt

4 5 5 6 8 10 11 12 12 14 14 15 15 16 16 17 17 18 18 19 19

MR. D-MARS Tip of the Month “ Despite the forecast, live like it’s spring. ~ Lilly Pulitzer

D-MARS.com Business Journal 7322 Southwest Fwy, Suite 805 Houston, Texas 77074

713-272-9511 . Phone 713-272-6364 . Fax

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4.

May 2013

The Perfect Marriage Between Industry and Community, Farouk Systems

Road manufacturing plant for a tour.

Hall has been a longtime fan of Shami’s and had this to say about the man and his commitment to the Houston community.

“Farouk Shami represents the ideal situation in the marriage between industry and community. He represents the type of innovation, creativity, and manufacturing that I as mayor wish to encourage and foster,

By Sharon C Jenkins Contributing Writer

F

arouk Shami is a man with great vision and the common denominator is always creating opportunities for the goodwill of others. So was the mission of d-mars.com’s founder and president, MR. D-MARS when he decided to chronicle this historical meeting of great minds, between Mayoral Candidate Ben Hall and Shami.

Shami’s international entrepreneurial reach has not minimized his service to those in the Greater Houston Area. His contributions to the Texas economy have been enormous. Over the years, his company Farouk Systems has hired over 2000 individuals, a number that continues to grow with the expansion of his business.

His mission to continue to help the Texas economy is evident in his plan to hire 1,277 people to produce hair appliances at his north Houston manufacturing facilities instead of in Asia. He projects that in the next four years, he will hire another 4,000 workers. Shami started his business after his 1986 invention of an ammonia-free hair lightener.

The chairman and founder of Houston’s Farouk Systems built a 300,000-squarefoot plant near Richey Road and Interstate 45 and employs nearly 600 workers who assist in the manufacturing of hair products. He sold his South Korea plant last year and is phasing out orders of any Chinese-made Chi brand hair appliances to create jobs at a new 189,000-square-foot factory near his north Houston facility. He will host a grand opening and job fair on July 30, 2013.

Houston’s Mayoral Candidate Ben Hall and small business champion, MR. D-MARS joined Shami at his Richey

not only does he create jobs for residents; he also cares about this community.

His business model is an example of what the private sector can foster and create to promote jobs in our community.

I welcome his endorsement and look forward to establishing an even stronger partnership between the city and his businesses.”

JOIN OUR MAILING LIST to stay informed in our community.

Register at www.d-mars.com

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It’s Just That Simple!

May 2013

Song Could Inspire

The Beat of A Different Drummer

A National Movement,

By S. Angela White Contributing Writer

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M

any people feel that one thing is missing from the conversations about gun and gun violence, about abducting and abusing children, about hurting, harming or killing children is the thing that’s impacted the most - the voice of the children. And, if you were to ask a large majority of individuals if they had one wish for children, what would it be? Most would say to make the world a safer place.

With that said, a Houston songwriter and soloist, put feelings to words and lyrics, and at 6 p.m., on April 14th at Jones Plaza, the song, Create A Safer Place for Me was launched and released. This song created a national movement and song that will raise awareness about violent offenses towards children and help to put a stop to the violence.

The song and the movement is bringing positive reinforcement as soloists respond to the question asked in the song, where does a safe place start... response... it starts in your heart.

Over 100 children’s voices sang the song that carries the name of the movement.

More than 400 individuals of all ages, ethnic backgrounds, cultures, and all voice pitches and ranges sang this powerful song on the steps of Jones Plaza, in downtown Houston at 6 p.m. Even though “Create a Safer Place for Me” is an inspirational and moving song; the event was much larger than the release of the song. Organizers, writers and soloists wanted everyone to get the message that is being delivered through this song, which is, to make this world a safer place for our children.

The song is intended to deliver the strong message that, if one more child is hurt or

killed - that’s one too many. The lyrics to the song says it best, “the world is filled with anger and danger, children fearful for where they learn and play...It hurts to see children crying and dying...the world is not suppose to be this way.”

One of the organizers of the event explained the reason for the initiative is to “give the kids a voice.” “In all of the incidences all across the country; the shootings, the abductions and other acts of violence towards children, we’ve never heard from the children, “states Ernest Walker, one of the organizers.

“This movement, through this song, puts the children at the forefront,” states 10-year-old Daniella Basquine, a fifth grader at Helms Elementary School, who has a solo part on the new release.”This song is the start of a campaign which we hope will pick up speed and launch nationally. We want other children to be heard. We want them to explain how the hurt, fear and shame impact them and their families. In our own words, we want the world to know that “we deserve a chance for a decent place to live and play.”

Other popular Houston vocalists on the CD include; Shawn McLemore, Rhonda McLemore, Cedric Ballard, and Anna Beth Marcus. Bishop James Dixon serves as narrator on the song and Victoria, his 9 year old daughter ends it, while the lead singer is All for One’s, popular soloists Delious Kennedy. The CD will be sold via downloads on iTunes and via hard copies.

Proceeds from the song will benefit several charities that help victims of violence.

To find out more about this powerful initiative, visit the website at -ASAFERPLACEFORME.ORG

5.

ouston welcomed the debut of the “Pat Williams Group” at the historical Rockefeller Hall in the Heights. After years of playing with such artists as Joe Sample, Jeff Lorber, Warren Hill, Eric Darius, Nick Collione, Alex Bugnon, Althea Rene, Art Sherrod Jr., Ronnie Laws, Tony Terry, Frank McComb, Dana Jackson, Tom Browne, Kurt Carr, Regina Bell, Kyle Turner, Ken Mondshine and Bobby Lyle, the highly sought after musician has decided to head up a solo venture of his own and showcase some of his favorite musicians locally and internationally.

Who is Pat Williams? You may have heard him play at The Fountain of Praise Church in Houston for (5) five years, where he is currently a member. Born July 1974 in Galveston, TX to famed trumpeter, the late Patrick Williams Sr. and former R&B and Jazz vocalist, Rita Benson, Patrick was saturated in a home where all musical styles were welcomed and appreciated. At an early age, he developed a love for listening to and playing all genres of music; Jazz, R&B, Country and Gospel, which to date has made Patrick one of Houston’s most versatile and most sought after percussionists. Respected among his peers and industry professionals, Patrick is known as “The Drummer’s Drummer” for

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his versatility and professionalism. Patrick is one of Houston’s few percussionists who is both comfortable and confident in a multitude of styles and as such, has regarded him as a reputable mentor, teacher and consultant to many upcoming young drummers in the state of Texas.

“When I think of the drumming skills of Patrick Williams, two words come to mind: Solid, and versatile. Then you can throw in all the other intangibles like dynamic shading, interesting use of the kit, and last but not least, making the music feel good--regardless of style or genre or groove. Patrick is definitely on my very short list of drummers I call to do my shows--be it acoustic piano or Hammond organ.” ~~Bobby Lyle~~ “Patrick is a super, talented musician whose skills are undeniable and personality immeasurable. It’s an absolute joy to work with Patrick onstage and in-studio whenever I have an opportunity which is not nearly enough. Patrick is not only one of my favorite musicians but also one of my favorite people. “ ~~Dana Jackson~~ The debut show proved to be a high energy night of star—studded entertainment, there was no shortage of fellow musicians in the house, all there to support and encourage their brother in music. And the listeners? Well we all left wanting more from the “Pat Williams Group.”

For upcoming performances on “The Pat Williams Group” visit his website at www.pdwilliams2.com.

6.

May 2013

May 19, 2013 at 6:00pm | Grooves of Houston | 2300 Pierce Street

Urban Souls Dance Company

is busily preparing for their 3rd Annual Spring Gala, Dancing with the Houston Stars, The Sparkling Speakeasy Edition, which will take place on Sunday, May 19, 2013 at 6:00pm at Grooves of Houston located at 2300 Pierce Street. Houston celebrities will be paired with dance company members for a fierce competition! Similar to the nationally televised show, this fun-filled event is sure to surprise and delight our expected audience of approximately 200 attendees.

Guess Who’s Dancing?

We are excited to announce. . .

Mr. D-Mars as one of our participants with Dancing with the Houston Stars!

Yet, Mr. D-Mars is not just dancing for fun and entertainment.

He is on a mission to support our mission: To improve the quality of life for both children and adults by creating a wide spectrum of artistic works that promotes diversity, love, and an understanding of cultural differences.

We hope that Keith can count on your support as a sponsor for this worthy endeavor.

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May 2013

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7.

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May 2013

Ben Hall in the Community

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May 2013

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May 2013

The Tom Joyner Foundation Fantastic Voyage Presented by Ford universities. The Morning Show with cohosts Sybil Wilkes, J. Anthony Brown and senior news analyst Roland Martin, also features “Inside Her Story” with Jacque Reid; political commentary from Stephanie Robinson and Jeff Johnson; entertainment reports from Kevin Frazier, as well as comedic observations from D.L. Hughley and the Celebrity Snitch Huggy Lowdown.

Joyner’s website, BlackAmericaWeb.com, has more than 1.5 million registered users.

About the Tom Joyner Foundation Founded in 1998, the Tom Joyner Foundation has focused on its primary mission of helping to keep students enrolled in Historically Black Colleges & Universities (HBCUs). The Foundation has assisted more than 20,000 students and worked with more than 100 HBCUs, raising more than $60 million. Throughout

By Kelly Harrington

Contributing Writer

M

ajor consumer brands target African American consumers on the Tom Joyner Fantastic Voyage that featured Jamie Foxx, Ludacris Tyler Perry, Snoop Dogg, Bootsy Collins and Earth Wind & Fire.

The Tom Joyner Foundation Fantastic Voyage cruise presented by Ford arrived into port Sunday concluding its 14th year as the Ultimate Party with a Purpose®, supporting students attending Historically Black Colleges and Universities, after selling out in just 21 days last fall. For eight days and seven nights, consumers saw some of the biggest brands and experienced some of the most fantastic artists in soul music from today and yesterday including Jamie Foxx, Tyler Perry, Bootsy Collins, Snoop Dogg, Ludacris, Earth Wind and Fire, the O’Jays, Maze featuring Frankie Beverly.

Brands utilized cross platform marketing using on-air radio marketing through the Tom Joyner Morning Show, online via Black AmericaWeb.com, and through consumer integration on the cruise ship.

From car giveaways to the strategic use of washing machines, major brands made their mark on the cruise: • Ford placed two 2013 Ford Fusions on the pool deck of the ship giving one away.

Ford had daily contesting that included

prizes culminating in a car giveaway. They also sponsored on ship entertainment hosted by PlayDate; providing a fun and exciting atmosphere with music and games. Ford was the presenting sponsor of all concerts on the main stage including Jamie Foxx, Frankie Beverly and Maze, Snoop Dogg, Ludacris, and more.

• AARP provided information on

caring for ourselves and others as we age.

AARP sponsored seminars, providing passengers with information and resources available to assist in caring for older adults as well as themselves as they mature.

Carnival was the vessel for The • Party with A Purpose ®.

Carnival Cruise Line contributed a huge part of 2013 Fantastic Voyage providing the vessel for the party aboard the Carnival Glory.

• Crest placed toothpaste and information every where teeth can be cleaned.

Crest strategically placed samples of their products in over 1,500 cabins for the 3,000 guests to use. They also sponsored “White Night” activities and hosted seminars on health and beauty.

Gain kept the Tom Joyner •

Fantastic Voyage clean incorporating activities with the washing machines on the ship.

Gain hosted “Get Together” laundry parties, utilizing the washing machines provided on the ship. They also sponsored #GainFresh Towel Folding Instruction seminars that culminated in a towel folding tournament.

• Southwest Airlines provided empowering seminars encourage people to “charter” their own course.

Southwest presented “Uniquely You: Charting your Course …Take Action and Take Flight in your Career” with a panel of inspiring speakers that included doors prizes, one of which was SWA flight tickets.

• Walmart incorporated their slogan “Live Better” into daily activities on the cruise.

Walmart presented a healthy lifestyle in a fun way sponsoring the daily morning workouts and fitness activities as well as health and wellness seminars.

About the Tom Joyner Morning Show and BlackAmericaweb.com The nation’s #1 syndicated urban morning show, which airs in more than 105 markets reaching nearly 8 million listeners, has distinguished itself over the years as continuously giving back to its audience with quality programming, highly popular promotions, special events and philanthropy. Since 2004, Joyner has awarded millions in cash and prizes to contest winners and his Foundation has raised more than $60 million to help keep students in historically black colleges and

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the week, the Foundation announces scholarship winners on the nationally syndicated radio show hosted by its founder, Tom Joyner. Each week, separate financial awards are focused on students who are single parents, high achievers, and distinguished students at the School of the Month. More information on the Tom Joyner Foundation can be found at www.

TomJoynerFoundation.org.

May 2013

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Advance Directives: 3 L Secret Strategies

By Melanie Bragg

Contributing Writer

D

o you have your advance directives and probate documents prepared and executed? If not, read on, I will tell you why it is so important.

Advance Directives make you think about your own mortality. The subject involves sensitive personal, religious, and ethical matters. Sometimes I think we fool ourselves into thinking that if we don’t talk about it, it won’t happen. But illness and death is an inevitable part of life. This article will set out three “secret strategies” that I hope will help you move the subject of advance directives from the “Taboo List” to the “To Do List.”

The three reasons are Love, Levity, and Legacy. Advance Directives are: I. A MATTER AS SERIOUS AS DEATH: LOVE Why on any given day do countless families find themselves going through piles of old papers looking for advance directives and wills that never turns up?

II. A MATTER OF LIFE OR DEATH: LEVITY Why did it take me ten years to get a husband and wife to execute their advance directives and probate documents? And, III. A MATTER OF LIFE AND DEATH: LEGACY Why are heirs forced to fight it out amongst themselves to the detriment of the deceased’s reputation in the community when a simple estate plan could have been done?

The 3 L SECRET STRATEGIES: LOVE, LEVITY, and LEGACY provides answers to these questions that if applied, will alleviate the problem. The 3L Secret Strategy is a CALL TO ACTION to citizens to assess their situation and take action.

ADVANCE DIRECTIVES The two types of advance directives in Texas are the Directive to Physicians or Living Will, and the Durable Medical Power of Attorney. The Texas Natural Death Act contains the law on advance directives. This article will briefly cover both documents. A Directive to Physician provides for the withholding or withdrawal of life sustaining procedures in the event a patient’s illness becomes terminal. Any competent adult may execute a living will.

And, they may be made on behalf of a minor patient by an adult spouse, parent, or legal guardian.

DIRECTIVE TO PHYSICIANS The procedure for a living will is informal. Two witnesses must sign it in your presence. The witnesses cannot be related to you by blood or marriage; they

can’t be entitled to any part of your estate under a will, or by operation of law, or have a claim against your estate.

SPECIAL PROVISIONS You may add special provisions to your living will. Two of the most common additions are a request for pain medication for comfort measures only, and a request to withhold artificial means of food and water.

ORAL LIVING WILL Although it’s best to have it in writing, a competent adult may have a non-written or oral directive.

REVOCATION Under the law, your present desire comes first. If you have signed a living will, and then decide it wasn’t the right decision for you, your change of mind has to be honored, regardless of how you felt in the past. A living will is effective until it is revoked.

Once a person has a living will, before life sustaining procedures can be withheld or withdrawn, the doctor must determine that the patient’s death would be imminent without life sustaining procedures. They must note this determination on the medical record, and what they propose must follow the law and the patient’s desires.

DURABLE MEDICAL POWER OF ATTORNEY: It is a simple document that appoints an agent to make any health care decision on your behalf. Appoint an alternate. Your agent will have authority to look at the medical and hospital records, to sign medical releases, and to consent to the disclosure of information on your behalf.

WHO CANNOT SERVE: 1) The healthcare provider, 2) an employee of the health care provider, and 3) the residential health care provider or 4) their employee.

WHEN EFFECTIVE: Your agent takes over only when the attending physician certifies in your medical record that you lack the capacity to make your own healthcare decisions. The doctor will document your condition in the medical record. At that point, your agent’s authority begins. It is intended that your agent will make decisions after he consults the doctor and other health care providers.

AGENT CANNOT CONSENT Your agent cannot consent to 1) committing you to a mental institution, 2) to convulsive treatment, 3) psychosurgery, 4) abortion, or 5) omission of comfort measure efforts.

EXECUTION: It must be signed in the presence of two witnesses. The requirements for who may be witnesses are the same as for the living will. The witnesses affirm that at the time of signing, you appeared to be of sound mind to make decisions; and that you stated you were aware of what you were doing. They also affirm that you signed the document voluntarily, without any duress; and that you asked them to sign it.

EFFECTIVE: The Durable Medical Power of Attorney is effective indefinitely after it is executed and delivered to the agent. Most of the forms have a place for an expiration date. If the expiration date is filled out, and on that day you are incapacitated, the durable medical power of attorney will continue to be effective.

DISCLOSURE STATEMENT: You must sign a disclosure statement that advises you of the effect of the Durable Medical Power of Attorney. You can revoke it too.

Give oral or written notification to the agent, the doctor, or the residential health care provider.

WHY YOU NEED BOTH: Living wills are limited in scope. They cover only the withholding or withdrawal of medical treatment when there is a terminal condition. The Durable Medical Power of Attorney is broad. It includes almost all of your decisions. It designates a person to act on your behalf, whether or not you have a terminal condition.

I. A MATTER AS SERIOUS AS DEATH: LOVE If you really love your family you will not make them go through wondering what you would have wanted and have disagreements among themselves. I have

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been appointed by the courts when family members cannot agree. Don’t give up your power and cause your family more stress.

II. A MATTER OF LIFE OR DEATH: LEVITY When you have your affairs in order, trust me, you have a sense of calm and peace that you didn’t realize was so valuable and it adds to your enjoyment of your life now.

III. A MATTER OF LIFE AND DEATH: LEGACY When your desires are known and you leave a clean slate for heirs to conduct your affairs on your behalf, you leave a legacy of which you can be proud. You can be in control of your destiny with an increased awareness of these documents.

The 3 L SECRET STRATEGIES: LOVE, LEVITY, and LEGACY provides you with a framework to consider and discuss these most important documents with your family. The 3L Secret Strategy is a CALL TO ACTION to citizens to assess their situation and take action.

Take Advance Directives and wills off the “Taboo List” and put them on the “To Do List.”

Look for my debut courtroom drama, Crosstown Park, on Amazon and Barnes & Noble, or at www.melaniebragg.com.

12.

May 2013

Who is Dr. Richard W. Walker Jr.?

D

r. Richard W. Walker, Jr., was born in New York City; a trailblazer and champion of Integrated Medicine, specializing in Age Management & Environmental Medicine, Dr. Walker has traveled the yellow brick road of life. This Physician, Consultant and Entrepreneur had often asked the question, “How did I get here?

His father a sanitation worker in New York City and his mother a saleswomen, both laid a wonderful foundation for Richard. He and his two siblings were raised on 115th Street in Spanish Harlem.

Richard encountered many challenges in the crime and drug infested Johnson Housing Projects.

While in the Projects he was exposed to the world of gangs. He was never fully engaged in a gang but their affects kept

crossing his path. Twice he was shot at.

The first time the bullet hitting a lamppost right in front of him and the second time when a pistol was aimed directly in his face but the guy, a member of a gang, did not pull the trigger. He was beaten up many times, once by a Housing Project cop with his night stick, breaking his nose. Richard had to learn how to stay alive. With all these near misses Richard began to sense that his life was being spared but why and by whom?

Richard was an honor student in Jr. High School, located in Harlem, NY but he struggled academically in high school because the quality of the high school was so much better in the then, all white community of Washington Heights. He realized he was unprepared for the better school. Richard worked diligently to excel in spite of what he later realized was dyslexia, a learning disorder that manifests itself primarily as a difficulty with reading, spelling and numbers. However, Richard always knew he had the smarts and kept looking for ways to excel and to escape his circumstances.

Shortly after High School, he met his wife Marvia. Richard had been told by his high school counselors that he was not college material. Having once expressed this to Marvia she told him, he would really be stupid, “if you believe them”.

In 1964, he entered the United States Air Force at Lackland Air Force Base

(San Antonio, Texas), which was his escape! There, he quickly excelled in his training winding up in the area of Forensic Toxicology. With an exposure to a new world and military discipline and training, a foundation for Medical School was laid.

Being encouraged by his wife, Richard tested the waters of college while in the Air Force, taking one course at a time.

When Richard was discharged from the military he worked as a lab tech. With the challenges of raising a daughter and son, and needing an increased income, Richard realized he needed a career beyond working as a lab tech. Using the GI Bill Richard received his Bachelor of Science degree in just 2 ½ years (1971) from the City University of New York, John Jay College, in Forensic Science.

While working on his Masters degree at John Jay College a Dean told Richard that he should to go to Medical school. With only a “B” average, a family of four and very little money Richard balked at the suggestion. However, the Dean persisted and pointed out that his “B plus” average

was achieved while working fulltime, and with a family; so, he convinced Richard to apply. He did, but to just two Medical Schools and as the saying goes - the rest is history!

In 1974, Dr. Walker received his Medical Doctorate from Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York in just three years and completed his internship and residency in Obstetrics & Gynecology at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor (1978). He went into the private practice of Ob/Gyn in Houston, Texas for 19 years.

He is a member of the American Board of Clinical Metal Toxicology, the American College for the Advancement of Medicine, The Texas and Harris Co. Medical Societies, Certified by FEMA in Hazardous Materials and is a Lecturer for the Houston Fire Dept. Academy.

Dr. Walker, a nationally recognized speaker and medical expert has co-hosted a Healthcare radio show in New York and has repeatedly been interviewed numerous times as a health expert on Fox News Network and many other news programs.

2013 Annual Clinical Intervention Foundation Inc. Kids Elite Retreat

By Dr. Anjanette Wyatt

M

any times our kids are behind the eight ball when it comes to finance, banking and entrepreneurship. I don’t care how much money you earn, if you are not capable of managing the funds, you won’t be able to become financially stable or run a profitable business! I am a true believer that the entrepreneurial spirit is developed at a young age. This is evident by my own personal background and history. I have been in business since I was around 10 years old! Back then, my father use to give us $7.00 for allowance and I would take that money, buy a jar of Dell Dixie pickles, some plastic sandwich bags and some candy. I would then sell my products at school and make a $14 profit on the products!! I thought I was rich!!

In an effort to expose our kids to the world of business and finance, I am hosting the 2013 First Annual Clinical Intervention Foundation Inc. Kids Elite Retreat! The retreat will be held at The Palm Center Conference Center, June 5-July 12, 2013. This interactive conference for children and teens will provide an opportunity for students to come together from the Third Ward and Central Houston areas and develop their own companies. The program includes numerous speakers and interactive workshops for teens. The kids will visit the Federal Reserve, Unity Bank, MJLM Wealth Solutions, The Mayor’s Office and many more exciting places!! The retreat will expose children to entrepreneurship,

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banking, and public speaking. In addition, this event will enhance the PARTICIPANTS KNOWLEDGE IN THE ACADEMICS OF MATH AND SCIENCE. Your support will make this effort possible!

Clinical Intervention Foundation is a non-profit corporation that was founded by me as a means of support for the community, especially the elderly and children. Clinical Intervention Foundation instills community pride in our youth and strives to develop future leaders and bring service and change to this nation.

History of the Organization Clinical Intervention Foundation is committed to ensuring that all children have the same opportunities in life.

The goals of the organization are: • To create a medium of contact for children which will stimulate growth and development in public speaking • To provide for children a constructive educational, cultural, civic, health, recreational and social experience • To educate children about economic development • To enhance the academic advantage of our youth • To encourage entrepreneurship and community empowerment • To introduce children to banking and financial planning We respectfully are requesting sponsorships from local businesses. We would like for you to be a partner in the 2013 Kids Elite Retreat Camp!! Your business sponsorship will be recognized in all printed materials distributed to the community.

For more information, please contact Sherri Webb, Program Director at 832858-0561/email clinicalintervention@aol.com or visit www.kid-s-elite-retreat.com

May 2013

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13.

14.

May 2013

FUN: The New Byword for the Library

By Melissa Perkins

H

Contributing Writer

as anyone checked out what’s going on at the Houston Central Public Library lately? Well, if you haven’t, you should, and you’ll be pleasantly surprised. Gone are the days when the library offers only books and periodicals, learning classes and tutorials, quiet study rooms, computer/Internet access, and a well-informed retinue of librarians and clerks. Of course, the Central Library on McKinney Street still possesses all of these necessary and wonderful things, but its capacity to offer affordable and even free entertainment has expanded exponentially over the past few years.

Believe it or not the Central Library has become one of the affordable movie theaters in town. If taking in a movie during lunch sounds like fun, on Wednesdays from noon until 2:00 PM the Central Library offers a movie viewing session.

Such films as Argo, Crash, and the latest James Bond 007 flick have been presented

as exciting and entertaining options at Central’s film series luncheons. Perhaps you have young adults (teenagers) in your care, and you would like to entertain them without breaking your bank account. If this description fits your situation, bring these young people to the Central Library on Thursday evenings for “Teen Movie Night”. They will be able to enjoy a PG-13 movie with provided refreshments.

However, not only does the Central Library offer cinematic entertainment, but it also provides stress-busting health and wellness activities and events. For example, on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays the library offers a unique variety of yoga and workout sessions for adults. And if your toddler is stressed out as well, bring him or her to the Tuesday “Toddler Yoga” session, which will provide tension relief as well as a relaxing caregiver/child bonding opportunity. Central even has yoga classes for infants called “Baby Yoga” on Thursday afternoons. Apparently, there are health and wellness sessions for people of all ages at the library.

The program planners at Central have not forgotten that youngsters learn best

when every facet of their being is actively engaged. With this in mind, Central Library offers a plethora of free “play” activities for children. For example, on Wednesdays, the library hosts an event called “LEGOs® at the Library.” This party is opened to children ages seven and up. It is especially formatted for those children who like to create, build, and learn simultaneously. In addition to this fun activity, the library also offers “Toddler Story Time” and “Toddler Playtime” as weekly events.

Quite frankly, the Central Library has successfully re-invented itself and has redefined the concept of the word “library.”

Those who are the library’s administrators have decided to behave as the Apostle Paul declared in I Corinthians 9:22, “…I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some.”

Reaching out to the public in order to provide and to serve the community in all of its needs is the major goal of the public library system. And if providing sources of entertainment, leisure, and healthy pursuits creates new pathways to literacy and learning; then, so be it.

To find out more about the activities the Houston Public Central Library offers go to the following HLP website: http://www. houstonlibrary.org or call 832-393-1313.

Photo Taken: www.h-town-visually.blogspot.com/

You Can Now TweetMyJob in Houston

By Taken from PRWeb

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oustonians will have access to relevant opportunities instantly and directly with the new TweetMyJobs platform that has landed in our city. Houston based employers will be able to reach quality candidates in a fast, efficient and affordable way. “TweetMyJobs Houston!” includes more than 150,000 jobs in all industries at all levels of employment, from entry level to C-Suite positions in the Houston metro area. The platform is not limited to specific demographics. In fact, “TweetMyJobs Houston!” is a tool for all Houstonians.

Available at http://w w w.Houston.

TweetMyJobs.com or at the App Store for your mobile device, getting started is as fast and easy as pushing a button to find jobs. Likewise, employers can instantly distribute their job listings to every corner of the digital landscape. “TweetMyJobs Houston!” leverages social media to drive local employment solutions. Job seekers can choose to receive job notifications “pushed” to them via text message on their phone, email or through social

media networks like Twitter. The platform is also integrated with Facebook so that job seekers can easily see if any of their friends are connected with the hiring company. Through the site seekers can request a referral from their friend to the hiring company, making their chances of getting the job 20 times higher.

“TweetMyJobs has launched in other cities throughout the U.S. and we have seen firsthand what our platform can do to bolster job growth and economic development,” said Robin D. Richards, Chairman and CEO of TweetMyJobs.

“We are excited to bring this unique tool to the 4th largest city in America and we commend Mayor Parker for her proactive approach and desire to adopt the latest recruitment technology available to support her initiatives for job creation in Houston.”

Individuals interested in pa rticipating shou ld register at http://houston.tweetmyjobs.com or via links from the City’s website, http://www.houstontx.gov, to receive relevant job matches instantaneously by e-mail, text message, or from social networks of their preference. In addition,

employers in the greater Houston area who are seeking to fill open positions can use “TweetMyJobs Houston!” to advertise their jobs at no cost.

About TweetMyJobs TweetMyJobs, a division of CareerArc Group, provides government with a robust online, social and mobile jobs platform that facilitates employment between citizens and businesses. By accessing

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powerful analytics, government is able to gain unprecedented insight into job creation and local employment needs.

Used by cities and counties like Atlanta, GA; Newark, NJ; Columbia, SC; and Nassau, NY, TweetMyJobs is the leading social and mobile recruitment and job distribution network matching job seekers with employers.

Contact: Stuart Lander @ 818-260-3156

May 2013

Disaster Preparation:

A Key to Community Survival

By Frenetta Tate

Contributing Writer

W

e make all kinds of preparations in life; career, business and family but often forget or don’t consider the importance of preparing for disasters or emergencies. Often, it is when something life-altering happens that we think about protecting and preparing ourselves for emergencies that may befall us.

As we approach the 2013 hurricane season, which officially begins June 1st, many outlets highlight the importance of disaster preparedness, share resources and tools to help you and your family, as well as partner with local grocery stores to provide hurricane tracking charts and items to have on hand during a disaster. It is beneficial for all families to take advantage of the plethora of information made available during this time of the year.

Khallid Greene III is Captain of the Department of Inner-City Emergency Response Team (IN-CERT). IN-CERT hosted their Fourth Annual Disaster Preparedness Weekend, April 26th through April 28th. In honor of disaster victims, Captain Greene from the Department of Inner-City Emergency Response walked 55.5 miles in 3 days from Galveston to Houston—to raise awareness and educate the community.

“Now is the time to prepare you and your family. Now is the time to get educated, engaged, equipped and empowered before a disaster.” Greene said.

For the past eight years, Greene has been a man on a purposeful mission to inform and incite people to take action and engage themselves in preparing for natural and man-made disasters and emergencies.

IN-CERT is the Inner-City Emergency Response Team, a part of the Department of Emergency Response and a non-profit organization. The primary role is extraction of people during natural and man-made disasters and hazards. In laymen terms, when something happens and you can’t get out of your home or community; they are the team of emergency response professionals that show up to rescue you or make a path way so other resources can get to you, i.e. fire department , law enforcement , food and/or portable shelter and points of distribution. In short, INCERT takes care of people in times of need.

The primary goal of IN-CERT is to train the community so they are equipped to help themselves until additional resources

can be reached. They do this by providing training classes in various areas—free of charge—allowing the participants to get hands-on experience. The information, trainings, tips, tools and strategies INCERT provides is extremely valuable to our communities’ survival and empowerment.

“When it comes to disaster preparedness, I’ve found the major assumption people tend to make is that regardless of the disaster; when they call 911, a personal rescue squad will show up to take care of them and this is not always the case. This is why we must be equipped and trained to take care of ourselves” Greene said.

The major component of the weekend was the 55.5 mile walk from Galveston to Houston. “The walk is designed to test your resolve during a non-disaster so that you will learn what you need to do to stay in a mode of readiness.” Greene said. Many participated and supported the effort by joining in the last three miles, which were dedicated to the town of West, Texas and the City of Boston; in honor and memory of the victims and survivors of the recent disasters.

Greene started the walk as a way to get the average citizen involved and to teach them what it would take to rescue their loved ones. “Many people think that simply walking to the other side of town will be easy but during a disaster, stress levels change and a simple five-mile walk can become one of great difficulty.” Greene said.

Furthermore, “Many of us have not walked ten miles, so, in times of disaster, we need to be prepared for all kinds of possibilities and this walk serves as a challenge to knowing your limitations and getting properly trained.” Greene said.

The disaster preparedness weekend began with a Preparedness Fair and Kickoff Celebration at Russo New York Pizzeria in Galveston on April 26th and continued with a stop at The Arms Room in League City on April 27th for the Family Preparedness Fair. The weekend ended with a 3 mile memorial walk at University of Houston.

Reaching thousands; this Walk proved successful in raising awareness about disaster preparedness through distributing literature, highlighting services, answering questions, providing training and arming communities with knowledge and information.

Let’s not wait for disaster to happen.

Let’s prepare now. IN-CERT offers a wide variety of free training in Basic Life Support, Fire and Gun Safety, Emergency Response, Crime Prevention, CPR and more.

For more information about volunteering with IN-CERT and/or getting trained; call 832-352-6192.

Frenetta Tate is a Certified Women’s Coach and Motivational Speaker. www. frenettatate.com.

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The War on Error

By Shanedria Wagner Contributing Writer

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s our troops return from battlefields abroad, domestic conflict in the field of education increases. Having taught on the front lines (the classroom) and having trained instructors, I am waging a war on ERROR. Though budget cuts, school violence, and high turnover pose threats, errors of judgment make us our own worst enemies.

The proverbial standardized test is public school enemy number one. Consider the widespread dread associated with the new STAAR exam. It is amusing to observe the suspenseful trepidation caused by the unknown. The anxiety is palpable as some educators fret over whether students will transition to the new exam. Angst should subside once the new format is revealed; the changes in wording of test items do not diminish that mastery of universal reading comprehension and problem solving strategies is transferable and applicable on all standardized exams, even the SAT and GRE. Error number one is unwarranted exam anxiety. Titles and formats change; the content is constant.

Among the educational practices that defy logic is the engagement in cultural combat. Recently, a Texas school “nixed” Arabic courses to appease griping parents who oppose Islam. Seriously? Islam and terror are about as synonymous as Christianity and slavery. We should blame the two-legged devils who commit crimes against humanity, not the religions they “claim” to follow.

So rejection of Arabic, a critical language, is supposedly a preventative measure that really threatens national security.

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According to the Associated Press, “The shortage of Arabic translators in Iraq has made it harder for U.S. soldiers to protect themselves.” As the proud sister of a fivetime-deployed major in the United States Army, need I say more? Well, yes.

The National Security Language Initiative is a joint effort of the Secretaries of State, Education, and Defense and the Director of National Intelligence to dramatically increase the number of Americans learning, speaking, and teaching critical-need foreign languages, as a matter both of national security and global competitiveness. So to stifle the teaching of Arabic is not the best way to support our “true” troops.

One parent expressed that Arabic would lead students to embrace Islam. As my husband humorously pointed out, adopting that warped rationale would require that we be mute, communicating wordlessly, since Muslims speak just about every world language. Many of them, ironically, speak no Arabic. People convert to Islam everyday…in English! Furthermore, many acts of terror are committed by Englishspeaking Americans.

Another parent stated that he could not forget 9-11. Nobody can, especially families of the victims, who represented every hue and faith in the human family.

We won’t forget slavery or the holocaust, yet we do not reject the multitude of tongues spoken by the guilty. We won’t forget the Vietnam War, Hiroshima, or Nagasaki.

Neither will the natives of Vietnam and Japan, many of whom proudly embrace American language and culture, while maintaining their religious beliefs.

We must collectively wage war on errors, beginning with our own. That is perhaps the most important lesson that we can teach our children.

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May 2013

Parenting Tips: Giving The Buffalo Soldiers Advice to Your Teenager 9th & 10th Cavalry Junior Troopers Fundraiser

By Jacqueline Quinn

O

By Joe Murray

T

he short answer to this question is don’t. Now at first glance this probably sounds ridiculous, after all parents have more experience of life and most would agree that a parent’s job is to pass this experience onto their children. But the problem with giving advice is that it’s really just a way of maintaining control. We often cover it up by saying we know what’s best in the situation, we have the experience and knowledge, but in reality what we’re saying is what we want to happen, this is what we want you to do.

Adolescence is a time for learning to selfmanage, to take responsibility for yourself and your actions. It’s an essential process if your teen is to become a well-adjusted, fully functioning adult ready for the world at large and a fundamental part of the process is handing over control to your teen.

For most parents this is a really scary thought. They’re concerned about what will happen if they do, that if they give up some control it will mean they lose all control. They’re concerned about what their teen will do or what happens if they get it wrong, in other words they feel a need to protect their teen.

Handing over control at this stage is more about handing over responsibility and accountability on how to do something, not handing over total control. It’s about letting your teen have an involvement in how to solve a particular problem, it’s about teaching them problem solving skills. If you always provide the solution how will they ever learn to do it for themselves?

It’s ok for your teen to get it “wrong”, to make mistakes. You’re teaching them how to self-correct, just as they did when they first learned to ride a bike and kept falling off. Making mistakes is a natural part of the learning process; more learning comes from making mistakes than comes from getting it “right”. How much does it really matter if they don’t get it right first time or choose the best alternative?

Finally, is your solution the best? It’s easy to forget that our children think differently than us when thinking about a solution to

a problem. The solution may be the best one for you, but is it the best one for your teen?

Giving advice by telling teens what to do is only one way of passing on a parent’s knowledge, there are other ways of achieving the same outcome and with a higher likelihood of success... it’s how you pass on that experience that makes the difference.

Below are some suggestions on how to get your point across: 1. Ask before you give. Always ask your teen if they want your advice before you start to give it. If they say, “yes please” then go ahead and have your say, if they say “no” respect their decision and keep quiet.

2. Question their intent. If your teen has refused advice, ask them specific questions about how they’re going to handle the situation. Asking questions about smaller parts of the problem is a way to at least get your teen to think about what’s involved.

3. Provide information instead. Directing your teen to a source of information that’s neutral allows your teen access to information without having to agree to your point of view.

4. Give your teen time. Just because your teen hasn’t given you an immediate answer to your question doesn’t mean they’re ignoring it. Give them time to go away and think about the answers.

5. Highlight their qualities. Reminding teens of their strengths will focus their minds on choosing options that make the best of them. Focus on their weaknesses and they’re likely to lose confidence in doing anything.

6. Listen to your teen. Often just listening to your teen without interrupting will show you that you don’t even need to give advice; your teen already has a solution.

This article was provided by 17 Going on Adult, a program designed to help families with tense relationship issues, while also focusing on preparing kids for life after they turn 18. For more practical guidance on parenting a teenager or help with how to parent a teenager please visit their website at: http://www.17goingonadult.com Article Source: http://www.articlesphere. com/Article/Parenting-Tips--GivingAdvice-to-Your-Teenager/264925

n Saturday, April 20th, The Buffalo Soldiers 9th & 10th Horse Cavalry of the Houston Chapter training program at the E & d Therapeutic Training Ranch hosted a photo shoot and fundraiser to help with the necessary funding for the continued success in the training and maintenance of their Youth Equine Training Program here in Houston.

The kids enjoyed many games, such as sack races, general racing, horseback riding, musical chairs, music, raff les, food and lots of joy and laughter.

In our efforts to give back to the community, we have developed a youth program funded by donations and community support. We have children that reside in all parts of the Houston area that come twice a week to learn horsemanship skills. We stay in close contact with our youth in school and request a copy of their report card. We have a structured and well-disciplined program with a not tolerance policy for verbal or physical violence. Everyone in our course must get along with their fellow soldier to continue to promote, preserve and perpetuate the legacy of the Buffalo Soldiers and who they truly were; our heroes.

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After our kids have developed the basic skills of the program and are ready to safely ride their mounts, each student receives a horsemanship patch and certificate, which signifies and certifies their completion from our Training Sergeant Eric E. Goosby Sr. and on that day you are now a certified Mounted Junior Trooper.

Some of our future goals are to acquire a safe, secure, and effective training facility.

Community, as well as corporate sponsors are needed to help us provide the mush needed training equipment at the E & D Training Facility. Our future goals are to acquire a portable building to house indoor classes, classroom supplies and equipment needed to continue educational opportunities to learn about the Buffalo Soldiers legacy. It is our goal to provide and fully uniform all students from head to toe with complete cavalry wear, and purchase replica saddles for the students of the mounted unit as well as gentle kid friendly mounts; allowing the students to participate efficiently in parade drills and other annual events. We teach you basic and advanced knowledge about horse care, tack care, and horse riding while enhancing our young recruit’s mental and physical skills. Our future plans and aspirations for the E & D Training Facility are to secure and maintain a safe and enjoyable training facility provided for veterans, youth and others.

May 2013

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Lasting Impressions Dental Group: Texas Minority Attorney Program

Free Dental Care for Patients in Need

D

r. Alison Scott Cuillier with Lasting Impressions Dental Group would like to thank the following dentists who participated in Dentistry From The Heart for helping to Spread Free Smiles Across Houston, Texas.

Dr. Rhesa Bautista Dr. Khalilah McAfee Dr. Melonie Dutton Lewis Dr. Margaret Allen Dr. Pryia Ganju

R

ecently The Texas Minority Attorney Program (TMAP), a one-day live CLE seminar and networking event geared towards minority and women solo and small firm practitioners, took place at the South Texas College of Law. Participants had the opportunity to learn about the issues facing solo and small firms, discuss various client development strategies, and network with area judges and other legal professionals. For additional information on TMAP, visit www.texasbar.com/tmap.

Dr. Tracy Petry Dr. KaRon Wade Dr. David Emmers Dr. Jyron Walls Dr. Jean Morency

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May 2013

Texas Women’s Empowerment Foundation Getting Into Action and Sister to Sister Celebration

Act Now: The Art of

Getting Things Done

By Long Yun Siang

A

ct now, if you want to achieve anything. Ever heard your people complain nothing ever gets done around here? Wonder why nothing ever gets done? That is because most people do not have a do it now attitude. People like to wait. Or they like to think that they are doing something even though all they do is talk about doing.

1. Talking Is Not Doing And therein lies the biggest challenge.

Most people like to talk and talking gives them a sense that they are acting out their plans. They can call this brainstorming, discussing or even planning, but these activities are not to be confused with doing.

If you want something to happen, act now.

Do what is planned and stop talking.

2. Plans Must Be Followed By Action Am I saying that you do not plan? No, I will be foolish to say that. Of course you must plan ahead. The challenge is to get people to act upon their plans when they have planned it. Act now. Do not go back to the drawing board and start deliberating again and again. I am a big fan of the philosophy, “a good plan executed today is better than an excellent plan executed tomorrow.”

3. Nothing Moves Until Someone Acts You must remember nothing moves until someone acts now. Plans put into action is the key to success regardless of what you do. After you have planned your career, you must act according to the plans.

After you have set the goals, you must execute the steps that move you towards those goals. It’s no use if you stick it on the wall, stare at it everyday but do nothing.

Remember, act now.

4. The Art Is In Do The art of getting things done and in fact getting more done is in starting to DO. Start small if you have to, aim for the lowest hanging fruit if you have to.

The important thing is to get traction for your action. That way, small victories and

achievements will spur you to do more.

It is true with projects and it is true with your career too. Act now is an art you hone across time.

5. If You Don’t Who Will?

You want to surpass people at work? Be a competitive advantage to the team so the boss notices? Then be the Do-er. Do not be afraid that people will think lesser of you.

There is too much credit given to so called ‘thinkers’ who do nothing but talk, talk, and talk. Nothing ever gets done. They think they are thinkers. I call them time wasters.

If you can act upon those plans and get things going, people will see you as someone who is productive. The best part is, it does not discount you as a thinker!

Who says do-ers can’t be thinkers as well?

6. The Hard Discipline Of Getting Into Action Getting into action and getting things done takes a lot of effort. So, it’s easy for you to stand out and be competitive if you can get into action fast and follow up fast.

That is what a lot of people do not have.

As long as you have the hard discipline of acting now, you will gain advantage.

People like to hide behind big phrases like “I am the big picture person”, “I am better at strategies” as if these big picture and strategies are of any use without someone putting them into place.

7. Once You Start You Can’t Stop Once you gain traction for your action.

Keep moving. Do not stop. You will get better at it. You will get more done and you will be more productive. That is one great advantage that is very difficult to compete with. As I mentioned, doing takes a lot of discipline. Discipline many people do not possess.

Long Yun Siang or Long, as he is popularly known runs http://careersuccess-for-newbies.com with his wife Dorena as their way of paying it forward.

Their website – based on their real life experience - provides tips, tools and advise for newbies pursuing career success.

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May 2013

19.

Who’s Who in Black Why Should You Networking Event Get Involved With Houston & Unveiling Reception Your Community?

They Need You!

By Michelle Vera According to “The Go-Giver” by Bob Burg and John David Mann (2007), “Your true worth is determined by how much more you give in value than you take in payment.” What?! Is that typed correctly?

Yes! In fact, they go on to say, “All the great fortunes in the world have been created by men and women who had a greater passion for what they were giving - their product, service or idea - than for what they were getting.” What do you think about these quotes? Do you agree?

When you think of volunteering in your local community you may not think of it as “The Go-Giver” did in terms of a business - but it is. Your products, services, or ideas are what you provide when you give to a local business - either monetarily or through your time or belongings. The same principles taught in the book about success are true when looking at getting involved in your community.

If you want to show your value in a particular area, it is important for you to become involved with your community.

Whether you are a business owner, writer / artist, employee, or stay at home parent, being involved in your community shows a few things about you: You care about making the world a better place.

You want to contribute to the lives of those around you by offering your skills or services.

You are willing to pour into others so they can become as good as you or better.

You have skills that are worth sharing with others.

Two easy ways to get involved are to search for opportunities on Volunteer Match and Christian Volunteering websites. In this article, I want to share why it is important to get involved. Though your motive for giving should be because you want to share your talents with others, you will reap many benefits too.

In giving, you receive the joy of seeing someone grow. In giving, you invest in

someone’s life in a priceless way. Those who can’t afford to pay you, such as the kids on the soccer team, will always be grateful for how you helped them. Those who receive your skills will go on to use those lessons in their life and think of you, remembering to pay it forward. Those who know you are someone who gives of yourself will want to help you and further your cause.

Let’s say you are interviewing for jobs.

The positions you are looking for require training and management experience, but you haven’t worked in those areas professionally. However, you have been a Girl Scouts leader for several years, managing cookie drives, fundraisers, and training sessions. This is great experience to add to your resume. Those years of paying it forward will provide you with return on your investment.

Do you hold an office in your Toastmasters club? Do you provide training at your local Department of Labor? These are valuable skills. In giving to your community, you are building other people up using your strengths. When you share these valuable skills with others, you build up leaders, future business owners, better parents, stronger individuals. You help others believe in themselves and feel that you have invested time within helping them become more skilled. In turn, you become a better leader and stronger individual.

So why get involved in your community?

Because the value you create by giving to others is worth far more than you will ever receive from anyone in payment.

What skills do you have that you should be sharing with your community?

Michelle Vera is a writer passionate about living a full and treasured life. She encourages those around her to do the same while living a life fully directed by the Lord. To see more of her work, visit http:// www.facebook.com/EyesStraightAhead Article Source: http://www.faithwriters. com-CHRISTIAN WRITERS

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It’s Just That Simple!

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May 2013

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May 2013

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May 2013

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