Rural Leader Magazine June 2016

Twenty Sixteen

JUNE 2016

20 20 UNDER

Feature Issue

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Contents

Publisher and Editor-in-Chief Kuanita E. Murphy, PhD Rural Leader Magazine, LLC is a digital publication that highlights every day people doing extraordinary things nationally and abroad. www.RuralLeaderMag.com www.GetRuralLeaderMag.com Guest Contributors Kevin Eikenberry Founder The Kevin Eikenberry Group Samuel Johnson Leadership Expert Shirley Muhammad Author/Entrepresneur John Potter, Ph.D. International Business Psycologist Ryan Scholz Leadership Expert Robert Sedycias IT Consultant Ingrid Syperski Freelance Writer

Readers’ Forum Tell us what you think about our publications, if you have a great idea for a story, or to just share. We may print your comments in Rural Leader Magazine. By sending us your comments, you’re giving permission to call you for an interview.

Please be sure to include your name, address, email address, and phone number so we can reach you. Write to us at info@ RuralLeaderMagazine.com— Reproduction in any manner, in whole or in part, in English, or other languages, is prohibited without written consent.

Send editorial ideas to Kuanita Murphy, PhD, Editor-in-Chief editor@ruralleadermagazine.com

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4 Special Feature: Victoria James: Selected for the National Academy of Future Physicians and Medical Scientists Award of Excellence

25 Gloria's Alterations: the Heart and Style of Creativity

7 Ten Hats All Leaders Wear

34 Respecting the Stars and Stripes: American Flag Etiquette

9 Adapting Your Leadership Style 10 Simple Things that Affect Your Success 12 Five Ways to Be a Toxic Leader 14 Transformational Leadership: Inspiring Change 15 Hiring with the Personality Theory, New Evidence Revealed 18 Quick Steps to Learning Leadership Skills 19 Trending Real Estate Investment: Land Ownership 20 Twenty Under 20 2016 Feature

32 Your Perception Creates Your Reality

36 Simple Ideas to Inspire Your Tween Readers 38 Kill the Nine to Five

by Turing Your Hobby into a Thriving Business 39 The Eagle Elite Club 46 Classroom Technology Unites Student Nationwide 48 Fifty Under 50 Call for Nominations 49 Seabreanna Johnson: Setting Goals and Aiming High 50 Stay Safe From Mosquito-borne Illness with These Simple Tips 51 Classifieds

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Editor’s Note

Reader's Voice Dear Rural Leader Magazine, I loved the May 2016 issue, especially the article Leadership: Four Sure Fire Ways to Improve Your Leadership Influence. Keep like articles coming.

—Connie W. Macon, GA Dear Rural Leader Magazine, Thanks for the special feature the nationwide need for volunteer firefighters in the May 2016 issue. Continued best of luck!

—Santton N. Tallahassee, FL Dear Rural Leader Magazine, Continue to keep up the great work.

—John W. Valdosta, GA

Dear Readers, I am super excited to present to you this 6th installment of Rural Leader Magazine! This month’s theme is all about excellence.

We are pleased to showcase the 2016 Class of Rural Leader Twenty under 20 (See page 20).

We’ve had a phenomenal response, and we sincerely thank each of you for your nominations and support. We look forward to doing this again next year!

I am also pleased to introduce the newest honor in our collection—the Rural Leader Eagle Elite Club. The EEC was designed to recognize young individuals ages 5-14 for excellence in academics, music, art, sports, leadership, and community service. Be sure to check out this year’s inaugural class on page 39.

As aforementioned, this issue is all about excellence.

Thus, we’ve put assembled a series of articles to help you hone leadership skill, attitude, and knowledge.

Inside you will find three inspiring special features.

These features tell the brief story of three awesome women: Victoria James (See page 4), Gloria Fillingame (See page 29), and Seabreanna Johnson (See page 49).

Also, throughout the month of June, Rural Leader Magazine will sponsor a “Celebrating the Women of Small Town America Campaign” (See page 25). The campaign is a participatory one in honor of the United State of Women Summit that will convene June 14th at White House in Washington, D.C. Learn more about the campaign on page 25.

Beginning June 1st, the call for national nominations for Rural Leader Fifty under 50 begins. Nominations will be accepted through June 30th. For nominations criteria and submissions process, see page 48.

I hope you enjoy this issue and continue to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Google +, and LinkedIn. Thanks again for your continual support!

Happy Reading!

Sincerely, Kuanita E. Murphy, PhD Publisher/Editor-in-Chief

What you do matters.

GetRuralLeaderMag.com | JUNE 2016 3 @RuralLeaderMag

Victoria James was selected for the National Academy of Future Physicians and Medical Scientists Award of Excellence for outstanding grades.

Leadership potential, and determination to serve humanity in the field of medicine.

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Victoria James

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Special Feature

Selected for the National Academy of Future Physicians and Medical Scientists Award of Excellence

ixteen-year old, Victoria James has an exciting opportunity to attend the Congress of Future Medical Leaders in the summer of 2016. She was selected as a delegate representing Southwest High School and the State of Texas at the Congress of Future Medical Leaders.

She was recognized because of her outstanding grades, leadership potential, and desire to contribute to the profession of medicine as a physician or medical scientist.

The three-day event will convene in Boston, MA June 25-27, 2016. The Congress of Future Medical Leaders is a highly selective national program honoring academically superior high school students dedicated to the service of humanity through medicine. It is an academic honors program with strict requirements. Honorees must have a minimum GPA of 3.5 or above.

During this once in a lifetime experience, Victoria will have the opportunity to view surgery and submit questions for the surgeon to answer in real time during the procedure. She will also have the opportunity to meet winners of the Nobel Prize, the most prestigious award in the world, award-winning young inventors, scientists, prominent medical school deans, leaders in medicine, and medical futurists.

Victoria is a Cuthbert, Randolph County, Geor-

gia native and is extremely outgoing and ambitious.

While attending Pataula Charter Academy in Edison, Georgia, she participated in student government, one-act play, 4-H, and Future Farmers of America (FFA). As a member of 4-H, in the fall of 2015, she auditioned and made Clovers and Company. However, she forfeited her slot to relocate with her family to San Antonio, Texas in the fall of 2015.

As a result of the relocation, Victoria found herself the new kid on the block in a new school! The first day of school at Southwest High School was intimidating.

“Of, course, I knew no one other than my twin brother, Victor. My first day was nerve wracking and a huge culture shock coming from a small school with a few hundred kids to one with nearly 4,000 students. The school is huge, so I kept getting lost, but I was determined to make it a positive experience. I decided to put myself out there to meet new people.

Once I began to make friends and to get involved in sports and other activities, I began to find my way” she said.

Victoria has an unquenchable thirst for knowledge, especially biology. She proudly boasts a 99% average in biology.

“I absolutely love working in the biology lab. If I could do biology all day, I would. I plan to one day become a pediatrician because I love for children,” she said. Continued on page 28

Victoria James proudly displays her award letter for the National Academcy of Future Physicians and Medical Scientist Award of Excellence.

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Ten Hats All Leaders Wear

By Kevin Eikenberry

As a leader, all day long you are wearing a hat. Not the kind that people might laugh at or that might smoosh your hair, but a hat nonetheless. For the next few minutes I want you to think of the various roles you play as a leader and different hats that you wear.

While there are likely more, let’s talk about ten of them briefly.

Coach. As a leader you have a responsibility (and need) to develop others to succeed in their roles and prepare for future roles. Facilitator. As a leader you have a role to facilitate (make things easier) for others.

While we might think of this most often in a meeting or group situation, there are many times when you might wear the facilitator hat to help processes flow better for greater ease and productivity. Strategist.

While this hat might often be thought about leaders at higher levels in an organization, the truth is that all leaders must think strategically – thinking about the big picture and what directions and approaches must be used to reach the desired results. Visionary.

Related to strategy, leaders must have a picture of where they are heading and why that destination matters to the organization, their team and themselves.

Change Agent. With strategy and vision comes the ever-present need for change.

As a leader we must lead and champion the changes that we envision and those that have been entrusted to us from above. Decision-Maker. We want others to engage. We want their input,

and as a leader we must be willing to make a decision. Whether it is a decision with less-than-perfect information, a decision that might be unpopular, or even one we don’t like ourselves, as leaders making decisions comes with the territory.

Influencer. Call it mediation or negation or even arbitration – the hat is really about influence. As a leader we must constantly be influencing others. Team Member/ Colleague. As leaders we aren’t always leading. We are also a member of our teams, as well as being the members of other project and peer teams. We must know when to put this hat on – and when to take it off.

Delegator. We can’t do it all.

The best leaders put on their delegator hat willingly and strategically to coach and mentor, and to forward the work of the team.

Listener. This hat better be a

tight fitting one, because it really needs to be on underneath all of the other hats all the time. As leaders we often think we need to be doing the talking – yet the best leaders talk less, and ask, listen, and observe more.

This list may seem a bit daunting, but when you realize that you are likely wearing many of them on the same day, and people will want you to switch hats instantly, it becomes downright scary. The purpose of identifying the hats, is to understand the roles well enough that when you are in a given role and wearing a given hat, you can be more effective because you are more aware of what is needed at that moment.

Now it is your turn. Think about these questions to apply these ideas to your work as a leader. Which hats am I most confident wearing? Which hats do I need to wear more often or more comfortably? What steps will I take given this information? — About the Author Kevin Eikenberry is a leadership expert and the Chief Potential Officer of The Kevin Eikenberry Group, a learning consulting company that helps Clients reach their potential through a variety of training, consulting and speaking services. You can learn more about him and a special offer on his newest book, Remarkable Leadership: Unleashing Your Leadership Potential One Skill at a time, at http://RemarkableLeadershipBook.com/bonuses.asp

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Adapting your Leadership Style

By Ryan Scholz

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eadership is very much situational. One capability that excellent leaders possess is the ability to adapt their leadership style to fit the situation. Those who apply the same style no matter the situation will not be as effective and successful. In Primal Leadership, Daniel Goleman along with Richard Boyatzis and Annie McKee, identify six leadership styles.

In this article I will take their six styles and talk about specific situations where each style is appropriate and where it may not be appropriate. As you read this, you will probably recognize that you have a predominant or comfortable style that you may tend to overuse and other styles that are uncomfortable that you may under utilize.

The visionary style leads by inspiration. This style requires a strong belief in one’s vision for the future and in the ability to move others towards the same vision. The visionary style requires the ability to communicate well and to empathize, or the ability to see things from the other person’s perspective. This style of leadership is most applicable when significant organizational change is required. In order to get people to embrace change, the leader must help them to visualize the change.

This style is not appropriate for operational management where quick, daily decisions are required.

The coaching style leads by developing others to their greatest potential. This style requires the ability to help others see their strengths and weaknesses, and the ability to counsel, coach, and encourage continual self improvement.

The key to making this style work is having a team of competent and motivated people and the willingness to delegate to them. This style is most appropriate in building long term capabilities of the organization. This style is not appropriate for problem employees or where the general level of competency is low. The affiliative style leads by creating a harmonious and high morale environment. This style requires the ability to resolve conflict and connect people to each other.

This style is appropriate during times of high stress and low morale. The key is getting people to

pull together rather than work against each other.

The democratic style leads by creating high levels of teamwork and collaboration. The leader is required to be a good listener and collaborator. The democratic leader achieves commitment by participation.

This style is most appropriate in solving specific problems where the ideas and input from a variety of people is important. It also helps to gain greater buy in for significant initiatives. This style would not be as applicable where organizational success is primarily determined by individual performance or where consensus may not lead to the best solution.

For example, if Moses used the democratic style while the Israelites were wandering in the desert, they would have gone back to bondage in Egypt. The pacesetting style leads by setting challenging goals.

This style is numbers driven and expects people to have initiative and a strong drive to achieve.

This style is overused and often is used poorly. It works best in situations, such as sales, where the primary determinant of performance is the competency, effort, and motivation of the individual. This style is inappropriate where results are most influenced by external factors outside the control of the individual.

The commanding style leads by tight control, threats, and fear. It is only appropriate during a crisis or with problem employees. During an emergency, this style soothes fear by giving people the sense that someone is in charge and knows what they are doing by giving clear direction.

It is the least effective style in creating a positive organizational climate. Each of these styles requires different skills and behaviors on the part of leaders.

Those who can masterfully change as circumstances and situations dictate will emerge as outstanding leaders.— About the Author Ryan Scholz works with leaders whose success is dependent on getting commitment and high performance from others. He is author of Turning Potential into Action: Eight Principles for Creating a Highly Engaged Work Place. For more information, visit his web site at Lead-Strat-Assoc.com.

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Simple Things that Affect Your Success

By Shirley Muhammad

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verywhere you turn people are looking for the magic formula to achieving success and avoiding failure. If a success pill or failure vaccination were ever made available, people would camp out in the nude overnight in zero degree weather just to get it. Many may not know that there are simple things that affect your success and you don't have to freeze your buns off to find out what they are. So what's the recipe?

What I am about to reveal to you is nothing new.

Jim Rohn, Tony Robbins, Jeff Olson, Jerry "The Rhino" Clark and many others have all trained on this recipe. If you are looking for something complicated or flashy, you will be deeply disappointed. This recipe for success is a classic formula that has been proven time and time again.

Success comes by practicing a few simple disciplines every single day. It's about being consistent with those core activities that contribute to your ultimate goal. It's about staying focused and committed.

For example, most would agree that exercising for 30 minutes a day five times a week is beneficial to your health and well being.

Is it simple to exercise for 30 minutes? Yes, but it is also simple not to do. Maintaining a healthy diet of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and fresh fish has been proven to increase your energy, reduce your risk of illness and maintain a healthy weight. Can anyone go to any grocery store and get healthy food.

Of course but it is also easy to choose the donuts and chips instead Reading a personal development book for 15-30 minutes a day will help you develop new skills, improve your relationships and gain what

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Jim Rohn calls "The Wisdom of the World". Isn't it simple to get a good book and read it for 15 minutes.

If you have a library card, you can check out the books for free. It can't get any more simple than that but again, can anyone come up with a simple reason not to do it? You get the idea.

Not exercising, eating the wrong foods and not reading that personal development book are examples of simple errors in judgment. Over time, these simple errors in judgment will create failure and possibly even disaster. So why would anyone continue to do something that would contribute to their failure?

The reason is that failure can be very subtle. Eating those donuts won't hurt you on the first day. In fact, you probably won't feel any difference in the first week or the first month but if you continue to eat unhealthy foods, over time this simple error in judgment will lead to disaster.

The good thing is that you can learn from your errors in judgment and make a new choice any time that you want to. You can also learn from others' errors and decide to take a different path. The key to success is to never abandon your quest for personal development. These few simple things that affect your success, when practiced every day, will get you to where you want to be. Stay focused and resolve to make success a way of life through your practice of the simple disciplines. Yes it really is that simple!— About the Author Shirley Muhammad helps others set up and run their own home based business. For more articles about home based business, network marketing, social media marketing and personal development, visit her blog at ShirleyMuhammad.com.

5 Ways to Be A Toxic Leader

By John Potter, Ph.D.

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e have all encountered toxic leaders and they exist in all walks of life from the business world, the military, government departs and even some entrepreneurs. Toxic leaders are those individuals who because of their destructive behaviors and personal dysfunctional qualities inflict serious harm on the people they lead and their organizations. There are many psychological theories which try to explain why some leaders become toxic.

However, what really matters to most of us is not the reason why people become toxic but how to handle them more effectively. It has been suggested that we all need authority figures and people who we feel will create good conditions for our survival. However many toxic leaders hide behind grand illusions and noble visions promising a great deal but often delivering little.

We can become deluded into thinking that they are strong leaders when in fact they are often narcissistic and ineffective in the leadership role. So just how do you deal with a toxic leader to minimize the impact they have on you, your colleagues and the organization in which you operate? Firstly find out if the toxic leader who is causing you concern has a history of unacceptable behavior.

When did they operate before coming to your organization? Can you talk with any individuals who have worked with them in the past? If you can build a history of the toxic leader’ share it with your colleagues and those who are affected most by the unacceptable behavior.

Secondly form a group of those individuals most affected by the toxic leader to avoid you personally becoming a victim on your own if all develops in the wrong direction. Avoid solo confrontations without witnesses as you don’t want to shift from being the ‘rescuer’ to the ‘victim’ in the situation. Get the group to offer to work with the leader to try to sort out the problems she or he is causing.

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As with most human situations, reconciliation is more beneficial than ongoing conflict. Thirdly if the group approach does not work create a strategy for undermining and ousting the leader. Although this can be a tough moral and political decision it is a necessary course of action in many circumstances.

Your strategy should be plausible based on Aristotle’s ethos, logos and pathos approach. You, your group and your strategy need to be credible and believable.

Focus on the impact of the toxic leader’s behavior rather than her or his personal traits. You need to ensure that your arguments are logical and are presented in a way which is emotionally intelligent rather than out of control emotionally. This is the ‘pathos’ issue.

Fourth, insist on all managers including the toxic leader undergoing a 360 degree assessment exercise where each individual is assessed by their peers, the person to whom they report and by those people who report to them. A consistent picture will tend to emerge with the consistently toxic leader and this can be to your real advantage.

Number five is that you always have the right to leave the organization and the toxic leader making it clear why you are so doing. Whilst this may seem a drastic move it is often for the better particularly if working alongside the toxic leader is causing you stress and eroding your quality of work life.

It may well be that the time is right for you to move on from that organization and do what many disillusioned executives are doing and starting their own business. You can then say ‘goodbye’ to your toxic leader and start afresh on a new career. — About the Author John Potter is a leading international business psychologist who regularly gives out free information on various such as starting a business and developing multiple streams of income.

Transformational Leadership: Inspiring to Change

By Akhil Shahani

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Say the word “leader” and most of us envision a knight-like figure charging headlong, inspiring his troops and generally leading from the front. That’s the dramatized version of a special type of leadership called “Transformational Leadership”.

Transformational leadership is probably the ideal interpretation of leadership, and the most romanticized. Leaders of this kind are visionaries, full of enthusiasm and boundless energy and seek to transform their subordinates in the process of achieving organizational goals. How do you recognize or become one? Find out, right here, right now.

What does he believe in? A transformational leader believes that passion and vision are prerequisites for a leader trying to inspire others. Not only that, a leader can get his followers to buy into his vision, only if he generates sufficient enthusiasm in them by displaying the same energy and enthusiasm himself.

How does he translate his beliefs into action?

The first and most important component of transformational leadership is a clearly defined vision, which the leader or senior management team is totally committed to. Mouthing mere platitudes will not work, and will fool no one. Belief has to start right at the top for it to go all the way down. Then there’s the all important process of actually securing buy-in from all the participants. That’s easier said than done.

Since transformational leadership by definition seeks to change, it’s never easy to implement. Some leaders might have radical views which will not go down well, especially if there’s an “old guard” in place. The only way to succeed is to persist till the idea is finally sold. Again, it rarely ends with a single idea, so transformational leadership is essentially a continuous process.

If you think this is pretty much a one-man show, nothing could be further from the truth. Transformational leadership certainly starts with the leader’s vision, but delivering it is very much a team activity.

In fact, transformational leaders tend to empower others rather than overpower them. This implies that they repose a great deal of trust and confidence in their team members.

Quite often, the leader will not have chalked out a detailed strategy for implementation, and that’s where he will rely on his support staff. Indeed, some

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transformational leaders focus so much on the larger picture that they forget that the devil lies in the details!

Practitioners of transformational leadership will always lead from the front, and enjoy being in the thick of battle. They come into their own in such situations, always inspiring and never letting group morale flag. What are his tools of trade? There’s always a method to everything and transformational leadership is no exception.

Since change is of essence, and also includes the transformation of followers, the transformational leader uses certain “tricks” to achieve his goals. The leader will seek to change attitudes or behavior by creating a strong sense of ownership among employees for the change and its results. By getting the team to identify with the goals, he makes it easier to secure buy-in.

A transformational leader will therefore appeal to the emotional side of his staff and play on their values, strengths and attributes. He also makes a big deal of seemingly small successes – whether it’s a letter of approbation or public praise, the transformational leader will not skimp on giving appreciation where it’s due.

Resources from walkthetalk.com provide greater insight on this subject. Where’s the catch? Yes, of course there are some. Since transformational leadership feeds on change, it may not work in a situation where things are pretty much in order. After all, if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it – and this can be quite frustrating from the leader’s point of view. Also, not everyone can sustain the high energy levels expected, and may give up or worse, opt out.

And most important, just because the leader believes passionately in something doesn’t necessarily mean that it is right for the organization. While transformational leadership can help create a trailblazing path, it could also plunge a business headlong into disaster.— About the Author Akhil Shahani is a serial entrepreneur and author of numerous articles about how to start and to grow a business. For more information, visit, SmartEntrepreneur.net.

Hiring with the Personality Theory, New Evidence Revealed

By Samuel Johnson BA

In today’s corporate world hiring managers often give as much consideration to an applicant’s personality as they do to educational background or professional experience.

When hiring for positions that are calculating in nature, an accountant, a technician, perhaps a computer programmer, a hiring manager will likely be looking for candidates who are reserved, focused, and task-oriented, with the belief that these character traits are important contributors for success in their line of work.

In sales, intuition tells us that

the outgoing, people-oriented suggest that our instincts may be well off the mark. candidate is going to be more productive than someone more Contrary to intuition, recent evidence-based research demonreticent or introverted. Besides general sociability, the hiring sales strates that the outgoing and gregarious person might not be best manager will also factor in other personality traits: sincerity, empa- suited for sales. Such a counter-inthy, doggedness, and the resilience tuitive finding could radically alter to hear “no thank you” repeatedly the measures by which companies while maintaining a positive attirecruit and hire young salespersons. tude and moving forward.

Imagine if every company For years these have been the that has placed a heavy emphasis attributes we instinctively look the degree to which a candidate for in a sales person, but are we justified in doing so? Preliminary proves to be outgoing or extrostudies in this field have produced verted was in fact passing on people better suited for the job. For some revolutionary findings that GetRuralLeaderMag.com | JUNE 2016 15

sure the company may be hiring effective communicators, people who are able to make contact and maintain relationships, but quite possibly they are overlooking the potential salespeople that can produce the most sales, and in the overall picture, isn't that what every company seeks?

Sam Johnson, an expert in personality theory, and President of ALC points out that, “The overall amount of money that hypothetically has been lost in unrealized sales is enormous if preliminary studies are correct.

What is important though is that we believe we know what to do now, we believe we know what personality type does sell the most, and we are confident that better decisions can be made in the future."

The next question that begs to be answered is, if outgoing and people-oriented are not the traits

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we are looking for, then what is the personality type best suited for sales?

With over a decade in sales training and an academic background in personality theory, Johnson has developed his own hypothesis. “The outgoing individual, who is at the same time task-oriented, has the most ideal combination of personality traits for sales.

Such an individual is generally direct, dominant, driven, and constantly striving to achieve one task after another.”

Recently concluded evidence-based research from Dr. Kirk Wakefield, of Baylor University supports this hypothesis, with outgoing/task-oriented personalities prominently out producing other personality types in sales.

Interestingly, the same study found that the reserved/people-oriented personality types

were the second best in sales performances.

The study suggested that this is because such individuals are very conscientious of their clients' needs and look to fulfill them. If your company has been hiring outgoing and people-oriented personality types for sales and you are wondering why you are not closing enough business...well we think we might have an answer for you.

About the Author Sam Johnson teaches effective communication and leadership skills through personality theory.

He is certified in DiSC Personality theory and Professionally trained in Myers Briggs. His academic background is also rooted in communications skills and leadership.

Quick Steps to Learning Leadership Skills

By Roberto Sedycias

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any people want to learn leadership skills to better improve their lives.

Having excellent leadership abilities can lead a better job, a promotion and even a new business if you want to be self-employed.

There are things you can do to improve on leadership skills and ways that you can be a more productive you! People who have strong leadership skills believe in

their ideas, thoughts and concepts. will either take too much time deciding on it or pass it off altoEven if the idea they have sounds wacky. They still pitch it. gether.

For a leader, there is no Leadership also takes having room for self-doubt or insecure confidence in yourself. People who thoughts. The difference between are shy, timid or tend to hold back a leader and a non-leader is that because they get embarrassed do they both may have a great idea not have exceptional confidence. for the company they work for, Luckily confidence can be aconly one will express that idea, the quired, either through the passing other will have so many worries of time or by just plunging into it. and insecure thoughts that they That means that some people GetRuralLeaderMag.com | JUNE 2016 17

Excellent leadership skills not only mean that you have confidence, take initiative and speak your mind; it also means that you can get along with others.

actually lose their shyness as they age or as they become more comfortable in an environment or with certain people, while others dive into it head first.

Confidence can be learned and it must be if leadership skills are to be exercised. The way to better confidence is to really like you inside and believe in yourself. Many people who have no confidence might have been put down as a kid or bullied or perhaps are still even as an adult through peers and even friends, family and spouses.

However, feeling confident can sometimes mean even a quick pep talk to you before a meeting or event. The power of words can do wonders. Before a presentation or meeting or an event that is making you feel nervous, give yourself words of encouragement things like; you can do this, you`re great, whatever works to get you feeling ready to go and wow people.

Leadership skills also mean taking initiative. At work or even in life, there are many times when you can take ownership for something and step up to the plate. For example if you`re standing around at work because there is nothing to do, instead of waiting for someone else to come up with an idea or your boss to tell you, just think of what you would do if you were

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the boss and do it. Your boss and coworkers will be impressed with your initiative.

Don`t be afraid to express your ideas and concerns. Many people hold back on ideas they may have because they may not go with what the boss is saying or what everyone is thinking, however expressing your thoughts in a well addressed fashion will actually show that you do not need to mesh with other`s ideas because you have your own. Even if your idea does not get picked at least you are showing that you have a different opinion and the confidence to express it.

Excellent leadership skills not only mean that you have confidence, take initiative and speak your mind; it also means that you can get along with others.

Great communication skills and the ability to work with many personality types are key to even becoming a leader. Sure you can have ideas and believe in them, but if you`re not well liked then others may not agree with them or take you seriously.— About the Author Roberto Sedycias work as an IT consultant for Polomercantil . He the author of numerous self help articles on various subjects.

Trending Real Estate Investment: Land Ownership

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Professional foresters help landowners develop a management plan to maximize goals and ROI.

mart investors know a diversified portfolio is the best way to weather any storm. Considering the volatility of the current stock market, the desire for better options has never been greater. Rather than gamble on the next buzzworthy stock or bond and hope it lives up to expectations, there’s an alternative that’s gaining traction: land ownership.

While stocks and funds depend highly on market swings, forestland requires only sun and rain to provide asset growth. However, the key to maximizing financial and recreational returns depends on proper management-and that requires more than just Mother Nature.

Knowing how to manage a large piece of land can be overwhelming to a new investor or a person who may have inherited land from family. It’s important to consider the investment potential. Some common questions include: * Should you harvest any timber? From what areas?

* When should you plant trees? * How should you manage the vegetation and handle invasive species? * How can you protect the wildlife?

Just as hiring a financial advisor is smart to manage an investment portfolio, hiring an expert to assist in answering questions and managing a land investment is also highly advisable. Independent consulting foresters are experts that offer scientific applications as well as business acumen to landowners.

Foresters offer broad-based knowledge about the characteristics of forest land, relevant economics of private timberland management and sensitivity to the full scope of issues important to private forest landowners.

In addition, an independent professional land management team comprised of not only consulting foresters, but also wildlife biologists is important.

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2016

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T W E N T Y

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e are pleased to feature this year's 2016 Class of Rural Leader Magazine's Twenty under Twenty. The purpose of this honor is to recognize deserving young individuals across the U.S. and abroad.

Each year, we aim to select candidate that convey a wide-range of excellence in areas such as academics, athletics, leadership, and

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service to community.

We understand the importance of encouraging young people and recognizing resilience, hard work, and effort on the journey to success, especially during the early years.

The honorees this year represent a range of talent and skill.

We sincerely that each of you for taking the time to nominate these

desering honorees. We desire to uplift, to encourage, and to inspire the next generation to strive for excellence in all endeavours.

It indeed takes a village to raise a child. We hope that our contribution to the village will build a lasting legacy of strong and confident leaders ready to embark on the road to greater achivement.

Twenty Sixteen

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Sylvester Cannon II

La'Tasha Allen

Age 19 Hometown: Miami, FL

Age 18 Hometown: Albany, GA

La’Tasha is the daughter of Corrence Allen, and the granddaughter of the late Mr. George and Mrs. Marjorie Allen, Sr. La’Tasha is the youngest of five siblings: Kendera, Martavious, Vanishia, Jamal, and Jarvis.

She is a 2016 graduate of Miami Killian SR High School. Her favorite hobbies including singing and playing volleyball. After high school, La’Tasha plans to enlist in the military.—

Sylvester is a 2016 graduate of Monroe Comprehensive High School in Albany, Georgia. He was an excellent student, who enjoyed a number of extracurricular activities. Sylvester is a song writer, artist, and youth leader.

After high school, he plans to attend Savannah State University to pursue a degree in business and music in the fall 2016.—

Ja'Darrious Deloney

Age 18 Hometown: Shellman, GA

Ja’Darrious is 2016 graduate of Randolph -Clay High School in Cuthbert, Georgia. He is a faithful member of Bethel A. M. E. church as an usher.

After high school, Ja’Darrious plans to enlist in the United States Navy.—

Honoring Young Individuals For Exemplary Academic, Athletic, Leadership, And Service to Community GetRuralLeaderMag.com | JUNE 2016

21

Korequanna Edwards

Age 17 Hometown: Cuthbert, GA

Korequanna is the proud daughter of Koren Starling and Alvin Daniels. She is a 2016 graduate of Randolph-Clay High School.

Korequanna was a great student, who enjoyed learning and hanging with friends. In the fall of 2016, she plans to Darton State University to pursue a degree in early childhood education.—

Daviaunna Hamm

Age 18 Hometown: Cuthbert, GA Daviaunna is the daughter of Rev. David and Mrs. Altaya Hamm, Jr. She is the oldest of five children. Daviaunna is a 2016 graduate of Randolph-Clay High School and Albany Technical College with a certificate in culinary arts.

During, her high school career, she participated in dance line.

English Language Arts was her favorite subject. In the fall of 2016, Daviaunna plans to attend Savannah State University and major in business management.—

dolph-Clay High School and Albany Technical College with a certificate in Culinary Arts.

Mylian was a stellar student with perfect attendance since 6th grade.

He also enjoyed extracurricular activities, such as managing the boys’ basketball team and playing football. The RCHS Red Devils were designated Region 1-A Champions (2015-2016). Mylian was also the camera guy for the both the girls and boys basketball teams.

He is also an active member of Virgil Chapel Missionary Baptist Church in Cuthbert, Georgia, under the leadership of Rev. Dr. Willie Ross, Jr. In the fall, he plans to attend Albany State University and major in Early Childhood Education.—

Cedric Demon Gilbert Age 18 Hometown: Cuthbert, GA

Cedric is a 2016 graduate of Randolph-Clay High School. He is the son of Mr. Charlie Will and Mrs. Cynthia Gilbert.

During his high school career, Cedric enjoyed a number of activities such as FHA. In the fall of 2016, Cedric plans to attend The Art Institute of Atlanta.—

22 RuralLeaderMag.com |JUNE 2016

Mylian Ga'Qual Harris Age 18 Hometown: Cuthbert, GA

Mylian was born on October 31, 1997 to the proud parents of Latoyia Daniels and Torre Harris.

He is the oldest of seven siblings: 2 sisters and 5 brothers.

He is a 2016 graduate of Ran-

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Cayle Symone Haynes

Age: 17 Hometown: Columbus, GA Cayle is a senior (2016-2017) at Newton High School in Covington, Georgia. During her junior year (2015-2016), she was and A/B honor student, who received a number of awards since her elementary school career.

After high school, Cayle plans to attend Valdosta State University of Savannah State University. She desires to pursue a dual degree in Political Science and Psychology.

After undergraduate school, Cayle plans to pursue a graduate degree in law from Florida State UniContinued on Page 24

Trending Investment, Continued from page 19 is essential for successful private forest management.

So how does the land management process work?

According to one leading consulting forester firm that utilizes both forestry and biology expertise, Bird & Crawford Forestry, there are three basic steps to proper forestland management. Following these steps will help ensure the landowner is maximizing his or her investment long-term.

1. The first step is to gain knowledge of the existing and/or potential natural resources on the property.

This includes knowing what resources are on the land, how they are located in relation to land features and what resources are worth preserving. Bird & Crawford Forestry is one group that utilizes wildlife biologists along with professional foresters to survey the land in person to map the property and determine resource assets from a financial as well as a recreational standpoint.

2. Once what actually exists on a property is determined, the next step is to establish goals for the property. Because every landowner/investor is unique,

goals can vary greatly. For instance, if the land is inherited, the goal may be focused upon protecting family assets to confidently keep a family legacy intact for generations to come. Upon identifying goals, an overall management strategy can be developed.

3. Finally, professional foresters will develop the plan of forest and wildlife management activities required to achieve the owner’s goals. This might include a planting and harvesting schedule, wildlife management and conservation efforts, and even hunting lease management.

Beyond the bottom line of profit potential, land ownership gives investors something that is tangible, a good alternative to traditional investments and another option to round out your portfolio. Owning land is also a wonderful way to conserve and enjoy nature while leaving a lasting legacy to family and future generations.

Working with experts familiar with a breadth of land, from upland pine sites to bottomland ecosystems, provides peace of mind for maximizing the land’s value. Learn more about forest and land management at BirdandCrawford.com.—BPT

Class of 2016 GetRuralLeaderMag.com | JUNE 2016 23

versity College of Law. She hopes to one day became a prosecuting attorney and run for the Senate or become mayor.—

Shalaria Hudson

Age: 18 Hometown: Cuthbert, GA Shalaria is a 2016 honor graduate of Randolph-Clay Comprehensive High School. She is the daughter of Ms. Eva Hudson and the late Mr. Larry Hudson.

She enjoys life and new experiences. In the fall, she plans to attend Darton State University.

She plans to pursue her dream to become a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist.—

Christian was an A/B honor roll student with a 3.3 GPA. He was also a member of the Boys to Men Mentoring Group that was founded by Dr. Tony Jordan, RCHS principal.

Christian was not only a great student, but also athlete. He was played football and basketball as center. Christian played offensive guard and defensive tackle. He was the recipient of the football co-captain award. RCHS Red Devils was named Region 1-A champions by the Georgia High School Association (2015-2016).

Christian enjoys attending various football camps to hone his skills, such as the Nike Combine Atlanta Campus, University of Georgia, and Georgia Tech.

After high school, Christian plans to attend college on a scholarship, such as the University of Georgia. He desires to major in psychology with a double minor in business and sports management.—

senior.

Victor was a member of the Southwest High School NJROTC program and Lackland Security Forces Police Explorer. In the police explorer program, Victor received a number of awards, such as 1st place in Prepared Speech at the SkillsUSA District 11 competition. He also competed at the state level in Corpus Cristi, Texas.

In January 2016, KENS5 News in San Antonio featured Victor and his team as they performed a Felony Traffic Stop at the District 11 SkillsUSA law enforcement competition.

Victor is an active member the Dominion Church of God in Christ Church (COGIC) in Texas and Weaver Temple (COGIC) in Cuthbert, where he plays the drums. After high school, Victor plans to join the United States Army Reserve, while attending college in Georgia. Then he plans to attend Army OCS training to become an officer in the Army then pursue a career in the medical field as a Physician Assistant.—

Victor Leon James

Age: 16 Hometown: Cuthbert, GA

Christian Martavious Jackson AKA Chris Age: 17 Hometown: Cuthbert, GA

Christian is the son of Mr. Alex and Mrs. Kiona Jackson. Christian is a senior (2016-2017) at Randolph Clay High School. During his junior year (2015-2016), 24 RuralLeaderMag.com |JUNE 2016

Victor is the proud son of Rhonda Johnson and Victor James Sr. Currently, Victor was an A/B honor roll junior student at Southwest High School (2015-2016) in San Antonio, Texas. However, for the 2016-2017 academic year, Victor will attend Pataula Charter Academy in Edison, Georgia as a

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Damonie McRae La'Cashmier Age: 16 Hometown: Dawson, GA Damonie is a 2016 graduate of Terrell High School in Dawson, Georgia, ranking third in class.

She is also dually enrolled at Darton State College, since her junior year.

Damonie conveyed leadership Continued on Page 26

R

ural Leader Magazine is pleased to announced its inaugural Celebrating the Women of Small Town America Campaign in participation with the 2016 United State of Women Summit.

Convened by the White House, The United State of Women Summit will rally women together to celebrate, to educate, to empower, and to take action moving forward. The Summit will be held June 14, 2016 at the White House in Washington, D.C. Throughout the month of June, Rural Leader Magazine will celebrate women, who make a difference in community, across the country. We are looking for exemplary women in various fields, such as business, civic, law enforcement, social work, health, government, education, and faith-based to name a few.

Nominations were accepted online in late May. Selected nominees live or work in small communities with a population of 300-150,000.

Honorees will be featured on Rural Leader Magazine’s various social media outlets throughout the month of June. View the nominees online by clicking here. For more questions, call 1-866-293-1192 or write to info@ruralleadermagazine.com.– GetRuralLeaderMag.com | JUNE 2016 25

skill in many capacities. She was senior class president and a member of Student Council and Future Business Leaders of America.

Damonie was also the 2016 Star Student for Terrell County High School System and a member of the National Honor Society.

Damonie was also very active in school and community activities.

Damonie was 1st Runner Up Miss Terrell High School (2015-2016).

She volunteered for a number of causes and organizations, such as Volunteer Autism Walk, Volunteer Albany Rescue Mission, Volunteer Annual Thanksgiving Food Drive (Dawson), Volunteer City of Dawson Trick or Treat, and Volunteer MLK Day Program. She is also a youth mentor and active member of Shiloh Baptist Church.—

Marcus RaShad Mathis Age: 18 Hometown: Miami, FL

Marcus is a 2016 graduate of Randolph Clay High School in Cuthbert, Georgia. He is the son of Patricia and Keith Hodge. He has an older brother, Harold Miller; and two older sisters: Dashun Harris and Shanterria Miller.

Marcus was a great student who was extremely athletic. He played football, basketball, and baseball.

He was also involved in Literary one act play, quartet, and the Boys to Men Mentoring Youth Group.

He is also a faithful member of Agape Ministries in Shellman, GA, 26 RuralLeaderMag.com |JUNE 2016

where Minister Ethel Coleman is pastor.

In the fall, Marcus plans to attend college and major in mechanical engineering.—

De'Aira McCrory Age: 18 Hometown: Powder Springs, GA De’Aira is the daughter of Shavon Goodwin. She is a 2016 graduate of McEachern High School in Powder Springs, Georgia. She is an excellent student, who enjoys writing, photography, and dancing with Sissy House of Dance and ViZions Dance ministries.

De’Aira is the assistant editor of McEachern Tribal Times newspaper and Co-captain of Vibe dance team. In her spare time, she also enjoys volunteering at the Calvary Children's Home.—

Jhakaya Arianna-KeShai LewisAge: 18 Hometown: Columbus, GA

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Jhakaya is the daughter of Dianne Peterman-Lewis and Charles Lewis. She is a 2016 graduate of Hardaway High School in Columbus, Georgia. Jhakaya was a stellar student involved in a number of activities. Upon entering high school, she joined The Hardaway Marching Band as a member of The Drumline known, as D-Squad playing several percussion instruments, such as the cymbals, bass drums, and quints, under band directors Vincent Sneed, Drew Mabry, and Adam Mitchell. She was also participated in the Arnold Middle School band startup project, under Band Director Chantell Scriven. Jhakaya played percussion/snare drum.

Jhakaya also played basketball for the Shirley B. Winston Recreation Center with the Columbus Parks and Recreation Youth Program under Coach LaShawnda Adams. She played basketball as a Lady Hawk, during both her freshman and sophomore years, under Coach Kendall Mills.

Jhakaya was a ROTC Cadet of Foxtrot Company for four years of high school, which earned her the rank of Captain under ROTC Instructor Colonel Feret.

She was accepted into three colleges: Alabama State University, Marion Military Institute, and Georgia Military College. Jhakaya also received a band scholarship at Marion Military Institute and accepted into its’ Early Commissioning Program (ECP). She plans to complete this program in two years then enlist in The U S Army as a 2nd Lieutenant.—

Success is not final, failure is not fatal; it is the courage to continue that counts.— Winston Churchill

20 UNDER 20

Sandra Selph

Dazian Jahrbrika Smith

Age: 18 Hometown: Shellman, GA

Age: 17 Hometown: Ft. Gaines, GA

Sandra is an extremely hard worker, who is respected by her peers. Sandra had the highest G.P.A. in her graduating class at Quitman County High School in Georgetown, Georgia. She was Senior Class President.

She is a young mother, who is self-motivated and a natural leader. Sandra is also very involved.

She participated in the Hornet's Closet at Quitman County High School.

She also excelled academically. Sandra received a number of awards and special recognition, such as the highest achievement awards in Advanced Algebra, Chemistry, Spanish II, Social Studies, American Literature, Web Design, and A/B Honor Roll throughout her high school career.

Sandra graduated from Quitman County High School in May 2016 as class Valedictorian.

She has been accepted and plans to attend Andrew College in Cuthbert then transfer to Albany State University in Albany, Georgia.—

Dazian is a senior (2016-2017) at Eufaula High School in Eufaula, Alabama. She is the daughter of Bridget Willis.

Dazian is an A/B honor roll student, who is very involved. She is a Eufaula High School cheerleader, FFA officer, member of the Tractor Team and Leo Club, and for two years, the Shema Van Performing Arts dance team. She also played tennis and ran track.

After high school, she plans to attend East Tennessee University in the fall of 2017.

Rodney Sharrod Spann, II Aka RJ Age: 17 Hometown: Dallas, GA

Rodney is rising senior (20162017) at East Paulding High School in Dallas, Georgia. During his junior year (2015-2016), RJ

maintained at 3.8 grade point average. He is not only a stellar student, but also very involved in many extracurricular activities.

RJ is the president of the EPHS Key Club. He has also been an active member of the Marching Raider Brigade, since 6th grade.

He plays the Saxophone. RJ is currently a Saxophone section leader (2016-2017). He was also Woodwind Captain (2014-2015).

During his tenure with the band, EPHS received the Georgia Marching Band Association State Grand Championship (20142015), and the Georgia Marching Band Association Region Champions (2014-2015).

During the 2015-2016 school year, RJ auditioned and made member of The East Paulding Jazz Band Ensemble. He also made the EPHA Wind Ensemble, which is also known as the Top Band.

More recently, he auditioned and made third chair for the saxophone section at the 2016 New York Music Festival Invitational, which will be held at Carnegie Hall in New York, New York.

He is also an active member of the EPHS Indoor Percussion Band He plays the Xylophone and the Tenor Drums.

RJ is also a cadet in the East Paulding High School Air Force Junior Air Force Reserved Office Training Corps. During his tenure he had received a number of accolades, such as the Sons of Confederate Veterans HL Hunley Medallion Award (2014-2015), the Leadership Ribbon (2015-2016), the Achievement Award 20152016, the Air Force Sergeants Association Award 2015-2016, and over twenty five additional AFJROTC ribbons 2013-2016). He is currently hold the rank of Cadet Major, and is a Flight Commander for Bravo Company.

Throughout the summer, RJ

GetRuralLeaderMag.com | JUNE 2016 27

plans to hone his skills by attending band camp. He recently became a Certified Lifeguard and currently work for SixFlags White Water in Marietta, GA. After high school, RJ plans to join the United States Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado. He then plans to major in pre-Medicine to become a General Physician in the United States Air Force.—

Kobi played softball and ran track and field.

In the fall, Kobi plans to attend Clemson University and major in Physical Therapy. She one day hopes to plans in the WNBA or overseas.—

Morgan Ashley Tomblin

Age 17 Hometown: Edison, Georgia

Kobi Brechell Thornton

Age: 18 Hometown: Ft. Gaines, GA Kobi was born April 3, 1998 to the parents of Willie and Brenda Thornton. She has two sisters, Brianna and Brittany; and two brothers, Brian Thornton, and Christopher Davis.

In May 2016, she graduated with honors from Randolph Clay High School in Cuthbert, Georgia.

Kobi also graduated from Albany Technical College with a Certificate in Culinary Arts.

Kobi excelled not only in academics but also athletics. She scored over 2000 points during her 4-year high school basketball career (2, 154), earning her the title Miss 2000. Kobi is the second in her family to be nominated for McDonald’s All American and was invited to try out for TeamUSA. She ranted 89th in the Nation and 17th in forward position. She played in the junior (2015) and senior (2016) GACA All Star Game in Savannah, Georgia. In addition, 28 RuralLeaderMag.com |JUNE 2016

Morgan is the daughter of Lori Morris Wilson. She is a senior (2016-2017) at Pataula Charter Academy (PCA) in Edison, Georgia. Morgan is an excellent student, who was awarded the highest average award in Advanced Algebra, Citizenship, State Degree in FFA, and perfect attendance.

She is also very involved in extracurricular activities. Morgan is member of the PCA Honor Society, Panther Literary team, FFA chapter, varsity cheerleading squad, basketball manager, and student council president. She also participated in homecoming court.

She is an active member of Morgan Baptist Church. In her spare times, Morgan works at the Back Porch Restaurant in Shellman, Georgia. After high school, she plans to attend college and to pursue a degree in early childhood education.—

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James, continued from page 5 School at Southwest High School has been both a welcome challenge and rewarding for Victoria.

“The teachers are really nice and seem to care about not only about my education, but me as a student. I am very driven and love challenges. I work hard to maintain good grades because I know that it’s important. My mother and family are always encouraging me to set goals and to work hard to achieve them. Being selected to attend the congress validated for me that hard work does pay off. I plan to use the opportunity to learn as much as possible. I understand that each experience is a stepping stone to the future.

I also have a very strong faith in God that He will not only direct my path, but also provide whatever I need along the way,” she said.

Victoria started a GoFundMe account with a $2000 goal. Raising the $2K would secure at least half of the cost and expenses associated with attending the congress. At this printing, Victoria has met approximately 75% of the goal with the help of generous donors across the country.

Victoria will relocate back to Georgia and attend Pataula Charter Academy for the 2016-2017 academic year.

After high school, she plans to attend Emory University or Darton State University.

If you would like to donate to Victoria’s, one in a life-time endeavor, visit the following link. https://www.gofundme. com/4qzkp2uk—

Special Feature

Gloria's Alterations: The Heart of Style and Creativity

GetRuralLeaderMag.com | JUNE 2016 29

Gloria C. Fillingame wearing one her fashionable Lady's tie necklace Owner of Gloria's Alterations 30 RuralLeaderMag.com |JUNE 2016

G

loria Cobbs Fillingame, or Dilla as she is affectionately called by all that know her, is a highly skilled self-taught seamstress.

From the tender age of five, Gloria fell in love with sewing, while watching her late grandmother, Amanda Cobbs sew.

“I can’t explain it, but I ‘ve always been fascinated by sewing thread and a needle. I enjoyed the idea that I could use my hand to make anything I imagined,” she said.

Dilla’s memory of sewing with her grandmother is one of her most fond. As her grandmother worked with her regularly, she was able to make her first hand-sewn apron.

“The more I practiced, the more I fell in love and realized early that sewing was natural for me. It was like breathing, she said.

As Dilla grew older, she developed a passion for fashion. As a budding teenager at Henderson High School in the mid-70s, her favorite course was home economics.

“I loved home economics. I learned so much in class. I learned how to sew by pattern and to make simple alterations,” Dilla said.

Shortly, thereafter, Dilla began experimenting with her own designs and making them.

“It was rewarding for me to bring creations to life.

Early on, I made a few original designs for others, but didn’t make it a habit. I didn’t have the time to commit to it, but I continued to sew by pattern and make alterations on the regular,” she said.

Dilla spent most of her seamstress career working in various sewing manufactories through southwest Georgia. As a result, she honed her skill and applied them to her own creations. Dilla discovered her passion for re-assembling clothing. Employing this unique talent, she created unique items, such as the

lady’s tie necklace.

“I began making the lady’s tie necklace a short while ago. The first time I wore it, I got rave reviews from everyone. My daughter wore several to Atlanta and received so many compliments. I began taking orders and the rest is history. As my reputation grew as a seamstress, I received lots of opportunities to sew for others for hire. Work came so quickly that I had to dedicate a room in my home to it, but I grew tired of the clutter. So much so, that I knew I needed to establish a separate space to work. So, I set a goal for myself to establish my own business,” she said.

Though it was a challenge, Dilla accomplished her goal. Despite a number of setbacks and challenges, Dilla was determined to stick with it. Nestled in the southwest corner of the Cuthbert square in Georgia is Gloria’s Alterations. Open since 2013, the shop continues to thrive.

“It was difficult as with anything worth having always is, but I persevered. I thank God for giving me the talent, skill, and opportunity to do what I love doing each day. I thank Him also for sustaining my business. People tend to think small towns are not ideal to open a business, but I think if there’s a need for a thing-it has the potential to be successful. You must put God first, then to do your part: provide a quality product and service at a decent price,” she said.

Dilla resides in Cuthbert and is married to Choice Fillingame. She is the mother of five adult children: Keshia, Catrina, Kendelle, Alene, and Marqual.

Gloria’s Alterations is located at 63 West Dawson Street in Cuthbert, Georgia and open Tuesday through Friday from 10 AM-6 PM. For more information, call Dilla at 229-310-0304 or write to cobbsg@yahoo.com.—

Lady's Neckties made by Dilla are available upon special order.

Gloria aka Dilla makes alterations to a customer's garment.

GetRuralLeaderMag.com | JUNE 2016 31

Your Perception Creates Your Reality

By Ingrid Syperski

“What we think about we bring about.” As quoted

by Napoleon Hill. We always have the ability to create a new reality in our life, simply by changing how we think. What do I mean by that? Something goes wrong in your life and the reaction you may have is saying to yourself, “Why me? Things never go my way, why do bad things always happen to me?”

What you have just done is reinforced a negative situation, given it attention and focus and are now attracting more of the same issues to yourself. Then when something else didn’t go your way, you’re in the “I’m doomed!” mentality. The good news is that what you perceive to be a problem is really just an opportunity to course correct.

An opportunity to analyze what it is that you are feeling so back about and then begin to ask yourself some serious questions. You can ask yourself something like, “What do I want out of this situation?”

Now your mind has to come up with an answer. It is not focused on the problem, but the solution that you would prefer. Then ask yourself, “What am I going 32 RuralLeaderMag.com |JUNE 2016

to do to get it?” That’s right, you need to take action.

Wanting a different result is great, now take the responsibility of getting it by taking action. Let me give you an example of what I am talking about. A friend of mine recently had a problem at work. This is a job she has had for years now and was very good at what she did. She had hopes of moving up in the company, taking on more responsibility and providing more value for the company.

One day, she was confronted by her superiors with a “so-called” suspicious action that she had supposedly taken. She knew she had done nothing improper and she also knew she was being set up as a target from a higher level manager.

She stood her ground, explained her circumstances and was given a warning and told that her judgment was in question here and further advancement may not be an option at this time because of it. Now my friend could have sunk her head and walked away and continued working in a hostile environment. She could have allowed this circumstance to define what

her possibilities would be with this company. Instead, she became grateful for this awakening and came to realize she had been stopping herself from going after what she was really passionate about. She had felt a sense of obligation for all the time they had devoted to grooming her and an obligation to those that were counting on her. Not any more!

She allowed herself to be released from this self-imposed obligation by asking herself some great questions – “Is this where I really want to be?” “What would I really love to be doing?” “What am I going to do to get there?” The clearer she became on the answers to these questions, the more excited she got.

What had seemed like a devastating moment in her career just became the turning point in her career. She could have said why me and what did I do to deserve this and decided to become a victim to the circumstance. Instead, it gave her the ability to clearly define what she wanted out of life. It fueled her desire to go after her real dream and she took action.

She researched this new path and found out exactly what she could do to enter this field. She found an entry level position, and within a few months was living the dream position that she had envisioned.

How could it have happened so quickly you ask? Did she have superior talent, was she gifted, was it about

who she knew? No, but she was clear in her desire, she was passionate about her goals, she focused on getting the results she wanted and she asked herself the right questions.

Negativity only breeds more of the same. Every problem is a chance to course correct. Look to your feelings as your guide. When you are feeling positive and happy, you know that you are aligned with what you should be doing in life. When you feel sad and depressed, get excited!

Now you have the opportunity to ask yourself the questions that can get you on the right path. This process can be used in your work, in your relationships, in your health, in any aspect of your life.

How you think about anything in your life, how you perceive it to be is the reality that you are creating.

If you want a better reality then start with better thoughts.— About the Author Ingrid Syperski is a freelance writer, mother of 3, wife, and business owner. Ingrid has helped many leaders achieve success through the understanding and teachings of Life’s Principals. For more information, call 516-551-2054.

GetRuralLeaderMag.com | JUNE 2016 33

Respecting the stars and stripes: American flag etiquette Summers are packed with outdoor activities, barbecues and patriotic celebrations. While the American flag is often an important part of these celebrations, many of us have questions about how to properly care for and display it.

“Flag etiquette can be confusing,” says Mary “Dubbie” Buckler, executive director and national secretary of the American Legion Auxiliary. “Many Americans want to show patriotism, but do not know the standards of respect and traditions associated with flag flying.”

The American Legion Auxiliary, the world’s largest women’s patriotic organization, helps to advance the mission of The American Le34 RuralLeaderMag.com |JUNE 2016

gion, the nation’s largest veteran’s service organization, to provide service to veterans, military and their families.

The American Legion has played an important role in establishing the standards of flag etiquette since before the passing of the first national codes in 1923, and has worked diligently to uphold these historical standards.

Today, much of flag etiquette can be found in the Flag Code, official national rules regarding the American flag.

“The American flag is meant to be enjoyed and celebrated,” Buckler says. “The American Legion Auxiliary is passionate about educating the public so they can do so with proper respect for the free-

dom and sacrifices it represents.”

Buckler shares the following guidelines for using, displaying and caring for the American flag.

Hoisting and lowering of the flag * The flag should be hoisted briskly and lowered ceremoniously. * The flag of the United States of America is saluted, or acknowledged by placing a hand over your heart, as it is hoisted and lowered. * When lowered, the flag should never touch anything beneath it, such as the ground, the floor, water or merchandise.

Manner of displaying the flag * The Flag Code states it is the universal custom to display the flag only from sunrise to sunset on buildings and on stationary

flagstaffs in the open. * When a patriotic effect is desired, the flag may be displayed 24 hours a day if properly illuminated during the hours of darkness. * The flag should not be displayed on days when the weather is inclement, except when an all-weather flag is displayed. * The flag should be displayed vertically, whether indoors or out, and suspended so that its folds fall free as though the flag were staffed. * When displayed in a window of a home or a place of business, the flag should be displayed in the same way; that is, with the union or blue field to the left of the observer in the street.

Storing and disposing of the flag * The Flag Code does not require any specific method of storage, however, over time it has become tradition to fold the flag into a triangular shape like that of a three-corner hat, with only the blue union showing. * When a flag is so worn it is no longer fit to serve as a symbol of our country, it should be destroyed by burning in a dignified manner. The American Legion frequently conducts flag retirement ceremonies, often on Flag Day, June 14.

Flag etiquette was established to honor and pay tribute to our nation and its history. As such, certain uses of the American flag are considered disrespectful. The flag should never be: * Displayed with the union down, except as a signal of dire distress in instances of extreme danger to life or property. * Used as a drapery or for any other decoration. * Carried flat or horizontally, but always aloft and free. * Used as a receptacle for receiving, holding, carrying or delivering anything. * The flag should never be used as apparel, bedding or drapery. * Festooned, drawn back, nor up, in folds, but always allowed to fall free.

Standing tall as an emblem of justice, perseverance, valor and honor, the American flag is an intricate part of what makes citizens proud to be American. As summer rays shine again and the flag takes its spotlight, it is important to educate yourself and others to show respect for the deep history and sacrifices this national symbol represents. —BPT

GetRuralLeaderMag.com | JUNE 2016 35

36 RuralLeaderMag.com |JUNE 2016

Simple Ideas to Inspire Your Tween Reader

R

eading is a gateway to other places, time periods, or even worlds. It’s also the springboard to success in school and beyond. Parents can inspire a life-long love of reading by encouraging and guiding their children, especially as they get older.

“The tween years are particularly important for developing a joy for reading,” says Jeff Kinney, author of “Diary of a Wimpy Kid” and creative lead at StoryArc Media. “Some children will naturally gravitate toward books and others tend to be reluctant readers.

Parents are the key to providing ample opportunity and modeling the importance of reading. Experts agree that reading is a skill that will pay off throughout life.”

When they are toddlers, it’s easy to sit down and read a picture book. When they are tweens, they are more independent, plus there are plenty of distractions. Kinney offers three ideas for inspiring your tween reader to pick up a book.

Explore an interest Does she adore baseball? Is he all about the outdoors? Does she love animals? Reading for fun can be powerful when you consider your child’s interests.

Whether fiction or non-fiction, the tween genre has countless books that touch on virtually every subject imaginable.

Chat with your tween about what he or she thinks would be fun subjects to explore. Then visit your local library. Librarians are great resources for knowing what would appeal to your child’s interests, plus what’s hot with different age groups. And, don’t forget the power of online booksellers too - searching and reading reviews can be part of the adventure.

Graphic novels Tween readers aren’t limited to traditional chapter books. Variety is key for tweens, who vacillate from comic books to magazines to traditional chapter books to anything on a screen. One segment that has exploded in popularity with the tween crowd is graphic novels. These books incorporate comic-style art along with conventional storytelling to draw the reader in. Here are three summer-time “must reads” that are guaranteed to excite your tween: “Galactic Hot Dogs: The Wiener Strikes Back” Since the initial launch of Galactic Hot Dogs on

Funbrain.com, millions of kids have delighted in the exploits of Cosmoe, Humphree, Princess Dagger and the rest of the gang featured in weekly webisodes.

The first book in the series, “Cosmoe’s Wiener Getaway,” was published in May 2015 and now, Cosmoe and his space-adventuring partners return, ready to save the galaxy (and of course sell more hot dogs) in this zany adventure. Besides, what could possibly go wrong when you combine hot dogs and a flying space circus?

“The Popularity Papers” Think graphic novels only appeal to boys? Think again. Most are gender-neutral and some are created with girls in mind. One example is the Popularity Papers book series, where best friends Lydia and Julie relentlessly pursue one goal: cracking the code of popularity. The books are fashioned as a notebook detailing their observations of cool kids, incorporating humor and messages on the importance of friendship.

“Poptropica: Mystery of the Map” Poptropica.com began as a virtual world in which kids explore a chain of story-based islands, travel back in time, battle monsters, solve mysteries and complete quests in a kidSAFE-certified environment.

Now a New York Times best-seller, Mystery of the Map is the first book to tell the origins story of the Poptropica game - extending the fun from screen to page. The next book in the Mystery of the Map series is due out in August 2016.

Shared reading Shared reading can be a great way to bond with your tween or encourage a reluctant reader. You could read the book together each night, taking turns reading pages or chapters out loud. Alternatively, you could both read independently and then talk about the chapters together.

Feeling especially motivated this summer? Start a kids’ book club with other parents. Select a book to read each month and then have kids meet for snacks and a discussion. Too busy to meet regularly? Start an online group or discuss the book via text. The more kids talk about reading, the more excited they’ll get about reading. After all, the more kids read for fun, the better they do in school and eventually, in life.—BPT

GetRuralLeaderMag.com | JUNE 2016 37

Kill the 9-to-5 by Turning your Hobby into a Thriving Business

A beloved hobby can feel like a mini vacation from everyday life. Whether it’s gardening for relaxation, photography as a creative outlet or computer coding to exercise the brain, hobbies serve as an escape from stress and boredom.

What if rather than a hobby being your escape, it was what you did for a career?

“When you do what you love, it doesn’t feel like work. However, people are intimidated by the idea of transitioning a hobby into this type of dream,” says Jim Salmon, vice president of business services at Navy Federal Credit Union. “Becoming a successful entrepreneur doesn’t have to be difficult with the right drive and passion.”

Navy Federal Business Services has helped thousands of people turn their dreams of owning a small business into reality by providing expert guidance and financial support through Business Services products. Here are some of Salmon’s expert tips based on best practices he’s observed through his close relationship with entrepreneurial clients: 1. Take your time.

Becoming a successful entrepreneur doesn’t mean you have to drop everything and devote all your time to starting a business. In fact, research shows the opposite: People who keep their day jobs while starting companies are a third less likely to fail than those who abandon their full time jobs. Instead, they’re tinkering, researching and cautiously testing things out to see if their idea is a viable business venture and if there is a market for their product or service.

2. Set a timeline.

Is there a season where it would make sense to test out your business venture? Or perhaps there’s a transitional time in your life where you’ll be looking to open a new chapter. For example, transitioning your hobby into a viable business venture a great 38 RuralLeaderMag.com |JUNE 2016

option for active duty military personnel and veterans because they naturally begin to think about what their second career will be after retiring or leaving the Armed Forces.

3. Decide on time commitment.

Decide how much time you are willing to dedicate to your new venture in the beginning. Being an entrepreneur means being your own boss which affords you unprecedented flexibility, but the effort you put in directly effects what you get out. Keep in mind, entrepreneurship isn’t just for full-time professionals. Turning a hobby into a career is a great option for military and stay-at-home parents who require flexibility in regards to working hours and location, but they may have more open time to dedicate to the transition.

4. Create a business plan.

Transitioning a hobby into a profession is a lot of fun, but it’s also serious business if you want to be successful. That means creating a business plan that includes goals and plans for attaining them. This will serve as the foundation for how you strategize and build a successful business today. Plus, when it comes time to finance your budding business, a solid business plan will give you a leg up and direction for the future.

5. Find financial backing.

Depending on what type of business you want to pursue, you may need some additional funding beyond what you can afford. Establishing a relationship with a financial institution like Navy Federal Credit Union will help you learn more about small business loans and lending products that will help your small business grow. Bring your passion and your business plan - potential investors and financial institutions alike will want to see both before they make a decision.—BPT

2016

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EAGLE

Elite C

ural Leader Magazine's is pleased to introduce the newest feature edition to its collection-The Eagle Elite Club. The Eagle Elite Club was designed to recognize deserving elementary and middle school students across the country, ages 5-14.

This year's inaugural class consists of dynamic young individuals, who have raised the bar of excel-

lence in academics, sports, leadership, and service to community.

In the years to come, we aim to continue to discover new young leaders to showcase. For selection criteria and additional information, write to info@ RuralLeaderMagazine.com. Congratulations to the 2016 Class of Rural Leader Magazine's Eagle Elite Club. —

He will attend Randolph Clay High School as a ninth grader in the fall.—

Tre'Veon Allen Age 14 Hometown: Cuthbert, GA Tra’Veon is the son of Regina Allen. He attended Randolph County Middle School as an 8th grader, during the 2015-1016 school year.

Tra’Veon is an excellent student, and he is an A/B Honor student.

He received several awards for academic and good citizenship.

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Anijha Keiara Baker Age 14 Hometown: Ft. Gaines, GA

and extracurricular activities. She ran track and field and a member of the Alabama Elite Gymnastic Cheerleading Squad.

Anijha also won first place in the 8th grade Science Fair and scored 100 points in AR reading. In addition, she received the honor of “Best Smile” by her 8th grade classmates. In May 2016, Anijha successfully graduated the 8th grade. She will attend Early County High School in the fall as 9th grader.—

Anijha is the daughter of Carletha and Paul E. Baker. She was an 8th grader at Early County Middle in Blakely, Georgia. Anijha was very involved in her studies GetRuralLeaderMag.com | JUNE 2016 39

ed student. After testing, he was placed in the 7th grade.

During the 2015-2016 school year, Lamont was an 8th grade student who excelled academically and participated in a variety of extracurricular activities.

He played defensive lineman with the Early County Bobcats.

Lamont was among several students who received the United States President Academic Award for the 2015-2016 school year. He Treveon Baldwin is also a recipient of the National Age 15 Society of the Daughters of the Hometown: Cuthbert, GA American Revolution American Treveon is the son of Mr. Trevis History award, the Accelerated and Mrs. Christine Baldwin. He Reader 200 Point Club, and the attended Randolph Clay High Twenty Books Club. Lamont read School in Cuthbert as a 9th grader. 50 plus books.

He enjoys school and partici In May 2016, Lamont graduated pating in extracurricular activities, from 8th grade with honors. In the such as basketball and football. fall, he will attend Early County Treveon will be a 10th grader at High School as a 9th graders.— Randolph Clay High School in the fall of 2016.—

Lamont Christian Age 13 Hometown: Ft. Gaines, GA Lamont is the son of Kemble Johnson and Lamont Christian, Sr. He is an active member of Brown’s Chapel A.M.E. Church in Fort Gaines, Georgia. Early in his middle school career as a 6th grader at Early County Middle School in Blakely, Georgia, it was discovered that he was a talented and gift40 RuralLeaderMag.com |JUNE 2016

Calvary Children’s Home Birthday Ministry.—

Marcus Finley, Jr. Aka MJ Age 10 Hometown: Clarksville, TN

Marcus is the son Mr. Marcus and Mrs. Lillian-Williams-Finley. He is a 5th grade student at Barkers Mills Elementary in Clarksville, Tennessee. MJ also has Aspergers, but he continues to be a thriving student who enjoys school and various activities.

In his spare time, MJ loves to build things and to work on computers.—

De'Asia Dix Age 13 Hometown: Powder Springs, GA De’ Asia is the daughter of Shavon Goodwin. She attends Tapp Middle School in Powder Springs, Georgia. De’Asia is a stellar student, who loves school and extracurricular activities.

She loves music and art. She plays violin in the orchestra, and dances with Sissy House of Dance and the ViZion Dance Ministry.

De’Asia also participates in the

THE EAGLE

Jaymarea De'Quan Hall Aka JD Age 13 Hometown: Cuthbert, GA Jaymarea is the son of Shundra A. Hall and Ladrell "Neil" Gilbert.

He is a rising 7th grade student

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THE EAGLE

(2016-2017) at Randolph County Middle School in Cuthbert, Georgia. JD was a attentive learner, who enjoys making new friends.

He has two older brothers, Jerrod Ellis and Ajoni Murphy.

In his spare time, he enjoys spending time with family, making new friends, and playing video games.—

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in academics, football, basketball, and cheerleading, and CTSE (Business and Computers), and mathematics honors.—

Edward Kinnell Age 14 Hometown: Cuthbert, GA

Shanice is the daughter of William and Monica Harris. She is a recent 8th grade graduate of Randolph Clay Middle School.

While attending middle school, she received several awards and participated in a number of activities. Shanice was a junior varsity cheerleader and served as co-captain.

She maintained A/B honor roll throughout her middle school career. She also earned the highest average in ELA, reading, math and science. She was inducted into Junior Beta and served as President of the School Government Advisory.

Shanice is also a member of 4-H and very active in the community.

She volunteers each summer at the Terrell County Senior Citizen Center in Dawson.—

Edward is the son of Regina Allen. He attended Randolph County Middle School as a 7th grader, during the 2015-2016 academic year. Edward is an A/B Honors student.

In his spare time, he loves playing basketball, drums, and traveling. In the fall, he will be an 8th grader at Randolph County Middle School.—

Madysen Jamie Mitchell Age 13 Hometown: Edison, Georgia Madysen is the daughter of Linda Mitchell and Donald Price. She attends Calhoun County Middle School in Edison, Georgia.

She is involved in a number of activities, such as football, basketball, and cheerleading. Madysen is the recipient of several honors

Jonathan Tyler Murphy Age 11 Hometown: Baconton, GA Jonathan is the son of VaShirl Keaton and Jonathan Murphy.

Jonathan is a rising 6th grader (2016-2017) at Baconton Community Charter School in Georgia.

During his fifth grade year, Jonathan was an A/B Honor roll student and involved in a number of activities, such as football, baseball, and 4-H.—

Madison Simone Nicholson Age 12 Hometown: East Leesburg, GA Madison is the proud daughter of Mr. Keaymonda and Mrs. Christa Hollis and Mr. Robert and Mrs. Robin Nicholson. She attends Lee County Middle School in East Leesburg, Georgia.

GetRuralLeaderMag.com | JUNE 2016 41

She is in the seventh grade and involved in a number of activities, such as MGA Cheer Extreme, Band, Honors Band, Chorus, and Student Advisor for 6th Grade.

Madison is the recipient of several awards. She received the Principal Scholar All A’s, MGA Cheer Hercules Award, and National Junior Beta Club in May 2016.

Jaishun Q. Smith Age 11 Hometown: Cuthbert, GA Jaishun is a recent 5th Grade Graduate from Randolph County Elementary School. He will be in the 6th Grade next school term (2016-2017) and will be attending Randolph-Clay Middle School.

He is the son of Divisha Bradley and Harvey Smith, Jr. Jaishun played football for the Carver Packers in Dawson, GA. He was inducted into Jr. Beta and received awards for Perfect Attendance, A/B Honor Roll, and Student of the Month.–

Regina Mariah Rogers Age 18 Hometown: Baconton, Georgia Regina is a rising third grader (2016-2017) at Baconton Community Charter School in Georgia.

She is the daughter of VaShirl Keaton.

Regina was a great student, who was very activity in extracurricular activities, such as cheerleading and softball.

During the 2015-2016 school year, she received the awards for principal honor roll, perfect handwriting, and good attendance.—

42 RuralLeaderMag.com |JUNE 2016

Jenise D. Smith Age 9 Hometown: Cuthbert, GA Jenise D. Smith is a 9 year old student at Randolph Co. Elementary School. She will be in the 4th Grade next school term. She is the daughter of Divisha Bradley and Harvey Smith, Jr. Jenise is the Co-Captain of the Stingerz Cheer Squad and takes dance at Tonya’s Dancefit Studio. Jenise was a 2016 Little Miss Jabberwock Contestant in Albany, GA. She received awards for A/B Honor Roll, Highest Average in Social Studies, Language Arts, Science, Math, and Reading, Accelerated Reader, Overall Top Reader for 3rd Grade, and Student of the Month.—

THE EAGLE

Jy’Quan D. Smith Age 11 Hometown: Cuthbert, GA Jy’Quan D. Smith is a 11 year old recent 5th Grade Graduate.

He will be in the 6th Grade next school term and will be attending Randolph-Clay Middle School.

He is the son of Divisha Bradley and Harvey Smith, Jr. Jy’Quan participated in karate classes. He started as a white belt and through testing was promoted to orange belt.

He was inducted into Jr. Beta and received awards for A/B Honor Roll, Student of the Month, Most Improved Reading, and Highest Average in Language Arts.—

Penny Clare Thompson Age: 11 Hometown: Americus, GA Penny Clare is the daughter of Stephen and Tommie Thompson.

She is a rising 6th grader at Fur-

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low Charter School in Americus, Georgia.

Penny Clare is involved in a number of activities. She is a Cloverleaf in Sumter County 4-H and enjoys helping others. This year, Penny Clare assisted other 4-Her's in service projects to benefit the Harvest of Hope Food Pantry and Salvation Army and various fund raisers for 4-H programming. In addition, her science project was one of the top eight out of all fifth grade projects chosen to compete in the School Science Fair.

Penny Clare received Academic Achievement Award for having A and B average in May 2016. She was the sole recipient in her grade of the "Golden Shoe Award" for outstanding athletic abilities, great attitude, and sportsmanship. Her coach said, “Penny Clare was always polite and caring towards all scholars and willing to help them out.”

Stephen Lewis Thompson, Jr. Age 6 Hometown: Americus, GA Stephen Lewis Thompson Jr is rising 1st grader at Furlow Charter School. He is the son of Stephen and Tommie Thompson. Stevie received an award for Academic Achievement and was voted " Most Athletic” by his classmates.

Stevie is a Cloverbud in the Sumter County 4-H Program and has participated in fundraising

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and service projects at the Harvest of Hope Food Pantry in Americus. Both children are involved in the cultivation and sustainability of their class's "Feed My School" garden at FCS.—

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ities, and volunteered with Keep Randolph Beautiful Clean Up.—

Brianna Kaylen Thornton Age 9 Hometown: Cuthbert, GA Brian Thornton II Age 13 Hometown: Cuthbert, GA Brian is a rising 8th grade student at Pataula Charter Academy (2016-2017) in Edison, Georgia.

During the 2015-2016) academic year, he received a number of honors, such as Principal's Honor roll, Highest Reading/Language Arts Average, Panther’s Award (Showing the Panther’s Way/Citizenship), Perfect Attendance Award, Referral Free, 4-H Member, and 4-H Teen Leader.

Brian also placed first in the 4-H State Jr., Conference at Camp Rock Eagle for Dog Care Training, and 3rd Place 4-H Gourd Decorating Contest,

Brianna is a rising 4th grader at Pataula Charter Academy (2016-2017). During the 20152016, school year, Brianna received the Design Principle Award January for service and compassion.

She also received several honors, such as A/B Honor Roll, Met and Exceeded 3rd Grade Standards, Referral Free, 3rd Place School Poetry Contest Winner, 175 words per minute, and 6th Grade Reading Level.

Brianna also participated in the Albany Fashion Board Model, Southwest Georgia Fashion Week Model, Cuthbert Children’s Choir Member, Tonya’s Dance Studio Dancer, Eufaula Athletics Gymnast, Upward Basketball Player.

She is also a member of Antioch Missionary Baptist Church, where she sings in the junior choir, performs on the praise team, and assists as Sunday School Secretary In her spare time, Brianna also enjoys volunteering at the nursing home.—

He was also recipient of the Design Principle Award for April 2016 (Student of Month). Brian is a member of Antioch Missionary Baptist Church in Cuthbert where he sings in the choir, performs on the Praise Team Member, an usher and youth devotional leader.

Brian is also involved in his Excellence is not community. He participated in being the best; Agriculture Day Teen Leader; he also volunteers at the Nursing it is doing your best.— Home and Assisted Living FacilGetRuralLeaderMag.com | JUNE 2016 43

Classroom Technology Unites Students Nationwide, Ushers in new Learning Experience

W

hen Cyndi Roberts steps into her classroom in Columbus, Ohio, her 19 students finish their conversations and get ready to start the day’s lesson. Like a scene from a high-tech science fiction film, she’s followed by voice-activated motion-detection cameras as she greets 14 people in the seats in front of her and five students who are gathered almost 500 miles away.

For Roberts, assistant national dean, College of Engineering and Information Sciences at DeVry University, any distance vanishes.

She writes on the whiteboard in her Columbus classroom, knowing her notes are appearing, in real-time, on the whiteboard in front of her students in Philadelphia. Cameras automatically follow the student voices and movements there too, so Roberts 46 RuralLeaderMag.com |JUNE 2016

can hear their questions and see their responses.

Exchanges like this are the norm for students who take classes in DeVry University’s innovative connected classrooms. The new learning experience incorporates cutting-edge technology to connect two to three classroom locations for simultaneous instruction, with a single instructor.

“This connected-classroom technology is not merely a teacher standing in front of the room, lecturing to students over a video feed,” says Brian Bethune, Ph.D., national dean of the College of Media Arts & Technology at DeVry University. “It is a completely interactive, immersive education environment. Through this technology, we aim to meet the next generation needs and expectations of our students, and provide an enhanced experience.

Here, students take active roles in discussions and interact with professors and fellow classmates whether sitting next to each other, or in cities far apart.”

Framing today’s education experience Currently, there are 23 innovative classrooms on campuses across the country, each equipped with voice-activated motion cameras, facial recognition software, high-definition wide-screen monitors with picture-in-picture views, desktop cameras and interactive touch-screen whiteboards.

The technology enables an immersive learning community among students with diverse geographies and education needs.

The classrooms are used for courses ranging from engineering technology to composition and financial accounting. Instructors complete in-depth trainings so

their curriculum fits the classroom format, rather than vice versa. While remote conferencing is widespread in the business world, a setup like this is completely new to education.

“From day one, I made a point to learn remote students’ names and include them - so much, in fact, I now have to hold back from calling on them exclusively,” says Teresa Hayes, a professor at DeVry University’s campus in Chicago. “It’s made me very aware of each student in my class. I can tell which ones are struggling and give them the attention and resources they need. The technology has changed the way I teach.”

Hayes’s adaptive approach represents the state of education as a whole. A Pew Research report, “’How Do They Even do That?: How Today’s Technology is Shaping Tomorrow’s Student,” indicates that as technology changes how humans interact and access information, it is also changing how students prefer to learn. The report acknowledges digital technology not only enhances existing classrooms, but it can also

completely change the relationship students have with their physical learning environment.

Driving tailored, targeted learning for tomorrow Technology-driven classrooms can fill a gap in today’s globally connected world. When classes are only offered online or in-person, students who prefer on-site learning are limited by course offerings at their local campus. The connected classroom technology provides benefits on a practical level, including having access to more courses and exposure to video conferencing capabilities that mirror the way communications happen in many companies today.

The next steps for the technology will be to expand to more DeVry University campuses and more classrooms in the near future.

Toward the end of class, students from the different campuses wave goodbye and wish each other a good weekend. It seems connecting new friends is one thing that may never change about the college experience.—BPT

GetRuralLeaderMag.com | JUNE 2016 47

Classroom Technology Unites Students Nationwide, Ushers in new Learning Experience

W

hen Cyndi Roberts steps into her classroom in Columbus, Ohio, her 19 students finish their conversations and get ready to start the day’s lesson. Like a scene from a high-tech science fiction film, she’s followed by voice-activated motion-detection cameras as she greets 14 people in the seats in front of her and five students who are gathered almost 500 miles away.

For Roberts, assistant national dean, College of Engineering and Information Sciences at DeVry University, any distance vanishes.

She writes on the whiteboard in her Columbus classroom, knowing her notes are appearing, in real-time, on the whiteboard in front of her students in Philadelphia. Cameras automatically follow the student voices and movements there too, so Roberts 46 RuralLeaderMag.com |JUNE 2016

can hear their questions and see their responses.

Exchanges like this are the norm for students who take classes in DeVry University’s innovative connected classrooms. The new learning experience incorporates cutting-edge technology to connect two to three classroom locations for simultaneous instruction, with a single instructor.

“This connected-classroom technology is not merely a teacher standing in front of the room, lecturing to students over a video feed,” says Brian Bethune, Ph.D., national dean of the College of Media Arts & Technology at DeVry University. “It is a completely interactive, immersive education environment. Through this technology, we aim to meet the next generation needs and expectations of our students, and provide an enhanced experience.

Here, students take active roles in discussions and interact with professors and fellow classmates whether sitting next to each other, or in cities far apart.”

Framing today’s education experience Currently, there are 23 innovative classrooms on campuses across the country, each equipped with voice-activated motion cameras, facial recognition software, high-definition wide-screen monitors with picture-in-picture views, desktop cameras and interactive touch-screen whiteboards.

The technology enables an immersive learning community among students with diverse geographies and education needs.

The classrooms are used for courses ranging from engineering technology to composition and financial accounting. Instructors complete in-depth trainings so

their curriculum fits the classroom format, rather than vice versa. While remote conferencing is widespread in the business world, a setup like this is completely new to education.

“From day one, I made a point to learn remote students’ names and include them - so much, in fact, I now have to hold back from calling on them exclusively,” says Teresa Hayes, a professor at DeVry University’s campus in Chicago. “It’s made me very aware of each student in my class. I can tell which ones are struggling and give them the attention and resources they need. The technology has changed the way I teach.”

Hayes’s adaptive approach represents the state of education as a whole. A Pew Research report, “’How Do They Even do That?: How Today’s Technology is Shaping Tomorrow’s Student,” indicates that as technology changes how humans interact and access information, it is also changing how students prefer to learn. The report acknowledges digital technology not only enhances existing classrooms, but it can also

completely change the relationship students have with their physical learning environment.

Driving tailored, targeted learning for tomorrow Technology-driven classrooms can fill a gap in today’s globally connected world. When classes are only offered online or in-person, students who prefer on-site learning are limited by course offerings at their local campus. The connected classroom technology provides benefits on a practical level, including having access to more courses and exposure to video conferencing capabilities that mirror the way communications happen in many companies today.

The next steps for the technology will be to expand to more DeVry University campuses and more classrooms in the near future.

Toward the end of class, students from the different campuses wave goodbye and wish each other a good weekend. It seems connecting new friends is one thing that may never change about the college experience.—BPT

GetRuralLeaderMag.com | JUNE 2016 47

Call for Nominations June 1st through June 30th Rural Leader Magazine is searching for 50 exemplary individuals who have made outstanding contributions to their communities. So often leaders in smaller communities are not recognized. Rural Leader 50 under 50 was developed with the purpose to recognize exclusively leaders who live and work in small communities.

Many are dedicated to making things happen in their churches, businesses, organizations, and communities. They are unsung heroes who contribute much to the vitality and sustainability of their communities. Rural Leader 50 under 50 is an effort to demonstrate the value of those contributions.

However, Rural Leader Magazine needs your help to identify these deserving individual across the globe. The call for nominations opens June 1, 2016.

The deadline is June 30, 2016 for all applications.

Honorees will be featured in the July 2016 issue of Rural Leader Magazine.

Here’s what we’re looking for: 1. Nominee must be at least 40 and under 50 as of July 2016 AND reside in the United States.

2. Applications must be completed online, or by email by June 30, 2016.

3. Nominees can nominate themselves or be nominated by an individual, group, or organization.

4. The selected 50 will be featured in the July 2016 edition of Rural Leader Magazine.

5. Applications will be reviewed by a panel of judges 48 RuralLeaderMag.com |JUNE 2016

selected by Rural Leader Magazine. Selected nominees will be notified via email. All decisions final.

6. To apply, send the information below via email by the above deadline to editor@RuralLeaderMagazine. com 7. All applications must include the following information: Nominee’s Name, Age, Employer, Title/Position Mailing Address, (County), State, Zip Code Phone (Include Area Code), and Email Address 8. Answer the following questions about your nominee: -What distinguishes your nominee?

-Tell us about their contributions and involvement in community.

-Describe your nominee’s professional achievements and activities.

-Nominee/Nominator may also attach resume (3 page limit, please).

-Name of Nominator if different from nominee and how he or she knows the nominee? Phone and Email (of the nominator).— - Include a quality head shot photo of at least 300 dpi below.

-Resumes and other supporting documents may also be uploaded.

For questions, write to info@RuralLeaderMagazine.com.—

Special Feature

Seabreanna Johnson Setting Goals and Aiming High

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uthbert native Seabreanna Johnson, 20, is well on her way to a bright future. Since her high school career, she is determined to do her best and to reach her established goals.

Seabreanna is a 2014 graduate of Randolph-Clay High School in Cuthbert. During her high school career, she was inducted into the National Beta Club Honor Society and ranked in the top 10% of her class.

She was also involved in a number of extracurricular activities, such as cheerleading. Seabreanna was named 1st Runner-up during homecoming (2013-2014).

After high school, Seabreanna en-

rolled in Albany State University in Georgia. She declared a major in biology. Her definitive goal is to become a physician assistant.

Seabreanna spends most days studying hard.

Currently, she is a sophomore with a 3.5 G.P.A. During Honors Convocation 2015 and 2016, Seabreanna was the recipient of several awards, such as Highest Ranking Student presented by the Alpha Kappa Mu Honor Sorority.

Seabreanna is the daughter of Kimberly Johnson and Seaborn Johnson, Jr., both of which, have had a positive impact on her life.

Her mother, Kimberly Johnson is a veteran educator of 29 years.

“They always encourage me to

strive for my goals and to do my best. My aunt Janice Gilbert, is also a retired educator and a part of my cheer team. I am thankful to have the support and encouragement along the way. Having support has made my college career a tad-less stressful,” she said.

May 2018 is Seabreanna’s projected graduation from Albany State University. After completing undergraduate studies, she plans to pursue her master's at either Emory University, Mercer University, or South University. Congratulations, Seabreanna on all your hard work! Continue until you reach the mark!—

Pictured Left to Right: Kimberly Johnson, Seabreanna Johnson, and Kimmyra Johnson after the Albany State University Honors Convocation.

GetRuralLeaderMag.com | JUNE 2016 49

Stay Safe From Mosquito-borne Illnesses With These Simple Tips

D

espite recent news that Aedes aegypti, the mosquito that can carry Zika, chikungunya and other viruses has spread to 30 states, the majority of Americans have yet to embrace basic recommendations to help reduce the mosquito population at their own homes.

That’s the result of a new survey fielded by TNS Global detailing homeowners’ knowledge of steps to reduce mosquitoes in their yards. According to The Mosquito Squad Fight the Bite Report, nearly three quarters of Americans (74 percent) do not plan to modify their time outside this year, yet less than half (49 percent) follow the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommendation to use mosquito repellent and just a third (36 percent) remove standing water, a simple task also recommended by the CDC, to reduce mosquito breeding.

“Unlike chikungunya and West Nile virus, Zika has been identified as a world health crisis and we must work together on personal, local and global levels to fight mosquitoes,” says Scott Zide, a founder and president of Mosquito Squad, the largest and most experienced home and commercial mosquito control firm in the country.

“Removal of standing water is the most essential tactic in mosquito elimination, yet homeowners aren’t actively removing it, which is surprising given that mosquito concerns are so high.”

According to Zide, just as surprising was the finding that 46 percent of homeowners surveyed said 50 RuralLeaderMag.com |JUNE 2016

they did not plan to do anything different in their yards, despite recent news of Zika virus. Findings from the survey show: * Only 36 percent of Americans turn over toys or items in their yards that contain water. * Less than half (44 percent) throw out lawn debris, under which mosquitoes can breed. * Just a quarter of Americans (25 percent) shake out tarps, including barbecue and fire pit covers, to remove water that accumulates. * Less than 27 percent make sure their gutters are clean. * More than a quarter (27 percent) walk their yard regularly to remove items that can harbor mosquitoes.

To help homeowners take control of their yard, Mosquito Squad experts urge customers to take an active role in mosquito control with the following tips: Tip over anything that holds or collects water.

A bottle cap filled with water holds enough water for mosquitoes to breed. Since mosquitoes breed in standing water, the elimination of standing water decreases a mosquito’s breeding ground.

Mosquito Squad technicians report that yards with bird baths, play sets with tire swings, tree houses, portable fireplaces and pits and catch basins are the biggest offenders.

Toss any yard trash including clippings, leaves and twigs. Even the smallest items can provide a haven

for mosquitoes and increase the population.

Turn over items that could hold water and trash.

Look for children’s portable sandboxes, slides or plastic toys; underneath and around downspouts; in plant saucers, empty pots, light fixtures and dog water bowls. Eliminate these items or keep them turned over until used.

Remove tarps that can catch water. Many homeowners have tarps or covers on items residing in their outdoor spaces. If not stretched taut, they are holding water. Check tarps over firewood piles, portable fire places, recycling cans, boats, sports equipment and grills. Mosquito Squad suggests using bungee cords to secure tarps in the yard.

Take care of your home. Proper maintenance can be a deciding factor in property values and mosquito bites. Regularly clean out gutters and make sure the downspout is attached properly. Mosquito Squad recommends re-grading areas where water stands more than a few hours, and to regularly check irrigation systems to ensure that they aren’t leaking and causing a breeding haven. Keep lawn height low and areas

weed-free.

Team up with neighbors. Despite taking all precautions in your own home, talking with neighbors is a key component to mosquito control. Townhomes and homes with little space between lots mean that mosquitoes can breed at a neighbor’s home, and affect your property.

Treat your yard and yourself. Utilize a professional mosquito elimination barrier treatment around the home and yard. Using a barrier treatment at home reduces the need for using DEET-containing bug spray on the body.

Individuals who want a more comprehensive mosquito control treatment can utilize Mosquito Squad, which uses the latest EPA-registered mosquito control barrier treatments, larvicide and all-natural substances to eliminate mosquitoes from yards and outdoor spaces. For more information, visit www.

MosquitoSquad.com.—

GetRuralLeaderMag.com | JUNE 2016 51

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