RYSE Magazine (2013 March/ April)

Recognizing Young Successful Executives & Entrepreneurs

September/October 2011 March/April 2013 $3.95 US US $4.99

MEN ON THE RYSE Powerful and influential, RYSE celebrates men who are on the RYSE and making an impact within our communities.

RYSEMagazine.com

WHO WE ARE

YBE

YOUNG BUSINESS E XECUTIVES The readers of RYSE Magazine are Young Business Executives (YBE). YBEs are welleducated, ambitious go-getters, who strive to be the best in both their personal and professional lives. They excel at climbing the ladder in the corporate world, or at navigating unchartered paths as innovative and creative entrepreneurs.

YBEs are confident, cultured and know where they are going. They are community activists who promote building wealth through social change. They are not afraid to express their opinions, but are always open to new ideas.

Always keeping up with the current trends, YBEs earn a moderate to high disposable income and can be extravagant when it comes to enjoying the finer things in life. A sufficient amount of YBEs income is spent on maintaining their homes with trendy furnishings, accessories, clothing, activities and events with those closest to them.

YBEs like to retain a sense of individuality within their groups, while understanding that true power lies in unity and collectivism. They live by mottos such as Quality rather than quantity and Each one, must reach one. Well-travelled, YBEs are likely to try exotic destinations, while not forgetting their normal native destinations.

JOIN THE MOVEMENT, GET CONNECTED Derek Lewis, Senior Vice President & General Manager, Pepsi North America Field Operations PepsiCo Americas Beverages

Facebook.com/rysemagazine Twitter.com/rysemagazine

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They work smart, but play hard, making the transition appear seamless and effortless. Young Business Executives stand at the crossroads of change as a generation of ambitious, conscientious leaders and powerful voices within the communities they live.

Contents MARCH/APRIL 2013

F E AT U R E S

RYSE Connected members J. Jackson Sr., Solomon Williams, Gerard Merritt, Tim Stephens and TK Walker discussing strategies to help each other grow their businesses. Page 32

J. Jackson Sr., Solomon Williams, Gerard Merritt, Tim Stephens and TK Walker

Men on the RYSE B JACKSON PHOTOGRAPHY

From RYSING Stars to seasoned veterans RYSE takes a moment to spotlight a few of Central Florida’s Powerful and Influential Men on the RYSE in Florida’s business landscape. Page 45

Cover Photo (l to r) Derek Lewis – Senior Vice President & General Manager, Pepsi North America Ron Oats – CEO, Boys Scouts of America CFL Council Robert Utsey – Senior Vice President Florida and Georgia, Skanska USA Tony Coley – Regional President of BB&T Rich Guidotti – Vice President & General Manager Greater Florida – AT&T Photo Credit – Claude LaGuerra Jr. M AR C H / APR I L 2 0 1 3 | WWW. RY SE M AG AZ I N E.C OM 3

C O N TR IB U T O R S

Ed Alexander, Esq. Founder of The Entrepreneurship Law Firm, located in Orlando, Florida, Ed Alexander helps entrepreneurs Grow, Protect and Profit from their businesses. He’s represented entrepreneurs and their business ventures since he became a lawyer in 1993. To learn about his services, please visit: www.orlandobusinesslawyer.com

Joshua Jones – Working as a marketing manager by day, and a freelance writer by night, Joshua Jones believes that the phrase ‘A True Apollo Legend’ fits him perfectly.

Yolanda Baruch A member of Team RYSE since its inception, Yolanda is a valuable asset who takes pride in carefully crafting thoughtprovoking feature articles.

Alicia Mitchell Alicia Mitchell is a storyteller. With a background and passion for broadcast journalism and public relations, “Lish” founded Mobile Mogul PR in 2010 where’s she able to live and flourish in the field she loves.

Joni Fletcher is a senior at the University of Central Florida in Orlando Florida where she is studying Communication and Creative Writing. She is also a contributing writer for the Central Florida Future and the West Orange Times.

Denise Y. Mose, Ph.D is the owner/creator of Simply D Perfume and Beauty Skin Care Line. She is also the host of Urban America Today (www.myjbnonline.net). She is an authority on education, business, beauty/fashion, career coaching and etiquette. Her new book, The Guilt-Free Guide To Fashion, was released summer 2011! You may visit her online at www.dymbeauty.com and www.danielformen.net.

Sharon Fletcher Jones, a native Virginian, is a business training manager, a freelance writer, a budget fashionista, and community supporter living in Central Florida.

Maro Onokpise is the founder of Jobtrakr.com, a site dedicated to helping job seekers. He has been featured on the cover of Career Magazine and was also recognized as one of the Orlando Business Journal’s 40 Under 40.

Jason Goldberg is a speaker, author and business coach.

He is the CEO of LeaderShift Consulting and MEometry.com

Dr. K L Newhouse – Consultant, Trainer, Strategist, Blogger, and Author specializing in Brand Management, Media Crisis Coaching, LifeAfter™ Sports, and Leadership. KNEWImage Consulting and The Sports Heiress Reports (Visit: www. knewimageconsulting.com Tweet: @SportsHeiress).

Devin Heflin is a feature writer and editor for the Orlando Times Newspaper. He is also the owner of Devin’s Ink Creative Services, a freelancing company that specializes in web articles, copywriting, blogging and marketing. For more information, contact him devin.heflin@gmail.com

Susan Reddick is the owner of E & R One Stop, a document preparation company based out of Orlando, Fla.

For a full bio on each contributing writer, please visit RYSEMagazine.com 4 RY SE MAGAZINE | M A RCH/ A P RIL 2013

D E P A R T M E N T S MARCH/APRIL 2013

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7 A Word from the Publisher 9 Ms. Know it All IN STYLE 10 2013 Business Fashion Trends 12 Tailor Made Nothing sends a clearer message about your status and self worth than a custom-made suit ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT 14 The Copa Grooming Lounge An exceptional grooming experience for the exceptional male SPORTS & RECREATION 18 From Mad Scientist to Mad Man Rickie Weeks, President Orlando Monarchs Baseball Club MIND, BODY AND SOUL 22 Get the facts on Prostate Cancer Orlando Health’s acquisition offers new opportunities for West Orlando residents

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TECH SAVY 24 Tech Gifts for Guys Seven gadgets that are sure to bring out the kid in any man MONEY TALKS 26 Five Creative Ways Start-Up Entrepreneurs Can Make Their Dreams A Reality LAW & ORDER 30 The Pricing No Man’s Land Is it possible that giving away a product is better than selling it for a low price?

ON THE RYSE 32 RYSE Connected A group of entrepreneurs are committed to each others success

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BUSINESS SENSE 40 Is Central Florida an Area for Professional Development?

Young professionals examine the potential and problems of entrepreneurship in Central Florida TRAIL BLAZERS 58 Mark E. Russell Stop the press as we spend a moment with Orlando Sentinel’s Editor In Chief ON THE SCENE 61 Women on the RYSE Honors 62 RYSE Awards 64 RYSE One Year Anniversary Celebration

BUSINESS SENSE 36 Now Hiring?

The facts about African American men’s unemployment

66 At Goodwill, Donations = Jobs The Goodwill offers Job training programs for people with barriers to employment

BUSINESS SENSE 38 What Type of Leader are you?

What do leaders and mattresses have in common?

68 Teen Dream Team Two young teen businessmen show the age is nothing but a number

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Recognizing Young Successful Executives & Entrepreneurs WWW.RYSEMAGAZINE.COM MARCH/APRIL 2013

Publisher/Editor in Chief J. Jackson Sr. Associate Editors Yolanda Baruch, Devin Heflin, Dr. Denise Y. Mose Contributing Editor Kareen Kennedy Creative and Art Director Jason Jones, StudioJones Design Contributing Photographer

Visit the All New RYSEMagazine.com.

The digital magazine, the articles, the events, the experience, right at your fingertips. Share stories with your

Nancy Jo Brown, 106FOTO Claude LaGuerra Jr. Director of Sales Timothy Stephens Director of Special Promotions

friends, comment on your favorite

Natalie Hawthorne

articles, and find out the latest events

Special Correspondent

in our community.

Élan Jackson Advisory Board Gerard Merritt, TK Walker, Rosemonde Cely, Solomon Williams,

CONNECT

Gigi Moorman, Alex Good, Lawrence Smith

Special thank you to our community partners:

f a c e b o o k . co m / rys e m a g a z i n e

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twitter.com/ r y semagaz in e

A Word from the Publisher

The Measure of a Man

O B JACKSON PHOTOGRAPHY ©

OVER THE YEARS, THE LIFESTYLE AND IMAGE of

men has changed and continues to do so both rapidly and dramatically. Demands in the workplace, fulfilling priorities at home, and fulfilling the role of being a positive role model in our communities and society.

We have also watched as men, specifically African American men, continue to be portrayed in media outlets as individuals who contribute very little to our society and are reduced to being chauvinists incapable of commitment and who are focused on the ‘quick score’ with regards to women and financial gain.

I remember growing up viewing positive male role models on television like George Jefferson, who although he was extremely prideful and had issues, owned a successful chain of dry cleaners which allowed him to move his family ‘on up to the east side’. Or the Cosbys, a family led by a successful doctor, whose character, at everyone opportunity, made visible our HBCU’s with the sweatshirts that he wore.

Even Carl Winslow, a blue collar worker, used every opportunity to teach his family the important things that mattered in life on the long running sitcom, Family Matters.

With the exception of Tyler Perry, who consistently portrays many of his male characters as successful and positive contributors to society, many of those positive images of men are none existent in many of the current media outlets and more importantly in our communities.

For that reason, RYSE wanted to take a moment to spotlight a few men who are making significant strides in their careers and in the community, men who are stepping up to lead as examples and serve as positive role models.

Now I am fully aware that the movement across the nation is towards the empowerment of our women, who have shown that they are capable and more than ready to assume leadership roles in our society and move our nation forward. However, it is the urban male who are rapidly becoming an endangered species and therefore need some empowerment of their own.

This issue is encompasses men of various race, color & creed who are striving to lead the way in our community. It includes men who are rapidly climbing the corporate ladder to inspiring visionary entrepreneurs, men who are in the early stages of their journey and men who have blazed a trail for others to follow. While we celebrate these successful men, I also issue a challenge to all men in general, a challenge to reach back and help pull the next generation up as you continue to rise.

As accomplished men, it is our role to recognize potential in young men who are trying to follow in our footsteps. It is our job to help them develop their talents and turn it into skills. Finally, it is our responsibility to present them with the opportunities to utilize their skills specifically developed to accomplish their personal goals.

This is the true measure of a Man on the RYSE. He knows that it is not about himself but about serving others, which ultimately makes him great.

It is true, women are on the RYSE, but if you ask any successful woman, she will tell you that there is nothing more attractive than a man that is willing to step up and take the lead.

I leave you with one of my favorite quotes from W.E.B. Du Bois, a quote that keeps me pushing onward in my own journey: “There is in this world no such force as the force of a man determined to rise.”

I encourage you to keep rising and we will keep watching and celebrating.

“Action” J. Jackson Sr. “Action” J. Jackson Sr. Publisher/Editor in Chief RYSE Magazine

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RYSE (Rise): [rahyz] – noun; to elevate or increase in rank, status, position, reputation, fortune, influence, or power.

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Recognizing Young Successful Executives & Entrepreneurs WWW.RYSEMAGAZINE.COM

FOR OUR READERS TO SUBSCRIBE RYSE Magazine is printed by RYSE Media Group, Inc. To subscribe, visit RYSEMagazine.com LETTERS TO THE EDITOR RYSE Magazine wants to hear from you.

Your letters to the editor can be sent online by visiting RYSEMagazine.com Attn: J. Jackson To be considered for publication, letters must include the name, address, and phone number of the sender. Because of limited space, letters should not be unduly long.

Letters may be edited to meet space, clarity and/or style requirements.

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Ms.

Know it All

Dear Ms. Know it All, I am a nice guy, but I can’t seem to find a woman who appreciates my qualities. I am handsome, make decent money and know how to treat a woman like a queen, but whenever I date a woman I always get the line, “I am not looking for anything serious right now.”

Are women that committed to their careers in this day and age that they no longer feel they need a man or am I doing something wrong here?

Signed, A Good Man First, let me start out by saying that you might just be shopping at the wrong market when it comes to the dating game. I assure you that career women still want to find a good man. Many have met and had bad prior experiences so they might just have their guard up. No matter how successful a woman becomes, at the end of the day she still wants to curl up with that special person. Michael Jackson once wrote a song that states: “I’m starting with the man in the mirror”….. So let’s evaluate you for a moment.

Are you setting the bar too high in your choices? Are you choosing a woman that looks good to you or one that will be good to you? Does

she “feel” good to you or does she make you feel “real good”? You say that you can treat her really well, but will she return the same treatment to you? Stop and think about why you are attracted to her and then answer those few simple questions.

I’m at the point in life where I don’t even want to start spending time with a person that does not treat me as well as I treat them. I refuse to do it because you might spend too much time and get hooked on the wrong person.

Remember, if you know you are a good man with all the right qualities and you know how to treat a woman, then just do you.

As soon as you hear “I’m not really

looking for anything serious right now”, then just finish the date and be thankful. Thankful that you haven’t wasted your time, money and efforts on someone who will never be able to appreciate you.

Stop looking so hard and just have a good time. The right woman will come along and probably not when you expecting her.

Remember, she could also be that close friend sitting right next to you that you never gave a chance.

Give that some time and then let me know how it turns out!

Sincerely, Ms. Know it All

Have a question for Ms. Know it All? Send them to questions@rysemag.com. Your question maybe selected for our next issue of RYSE Magazine.

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IN S TYL E

2013 Business

Fashion Trends

BY JACQUES VINCENT

Fashion is no longer just reserved for women or the elite. Now more than ever, the masculine male is taking pride in the way he is dressed. He understands that being fashionable does not make you less of a man, on the contrary, it makes you more appealing to the opposite sex. By keeping up with current trends and adjusting your wardrobe, not only will you enhance your presentation but your self esteem as well. The saying goes, “If you look good, you feel good.”

1. BROWN SUITS Brown suits are slated to be a hit in men’s fashion this year. Many different hues made their way down the runway. Ermenegildo Zegna debuted a light brown, caramel-hued suit, while Bottega Veneta showed a slightly darker, but more rumpled looking suit.

Brown is a great color for a lot of men — it is very flattering on almost any skin tone. Look for different shades like coffee, chocolate, bark, and tobacco.

4. SPRINGTIME PASTELS It’s still cold outside so making dark colors like brown and black your staple colors are seasonably appropriate right now. Yet in a few months when the sun comes out, the velvet black blazer will go into the closet. When that happens, look for some bright colors and beautiful pastels to liven up your wardrobe. It’s a great way to stand out in a crowded room of grey, navy, and black.

2. VELVET If you like fabrics that feel great against your skin, get excited about this year’s hottest fabric trend: Velvet. It can be worn casually, but it can also be worn at fancier occasions. Try a velvet tailored blazer or pants with velvet trim.

5. SHORT COMINGS Ready to show some leg? Shorts refuse to leave the list of fashion trends of both women and men collections. This is a fashion trend that will be loved by all or hated by some.

Menswear has progressively moved towards a more tailored, fitted aesthetic and it was only a matter of time for that style to catch up with shorts and casual-wear. Slim cut shorts in a variety of colors and patterns will be the strong fashion trend for spring and summer. Put away your board shorts and your cargos and learn how to confidently wear slim cut shorts and show off your physique. The 2013 Collection of men’s shorts offers a variety of styles for everyday life, leisure or even work!

3. THE CAPE If you open to being a bit adventurous, — especially if you love superheroes and comic books, try the season’s biggest trend in men’s outerwear: the cape. It’s a totally extravagant, enticing option that gives the wearer a bold impression of a gentleman willing to take risks. Many of the men’s capes have the option of sleeves, which makes them less risqué and a lot more functional.

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ISTOCKPHOTO.COM

Below are some of the current fashion trends in menswear for 2013. Select your favorite and update your look.

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IN S TYL E

Tailor Made

F

“THE FINEST CLOTHING MADE IS A PERSON’S SKIN BUT, OF COURSE, SOCIETY DEMANDS SOMETHING MORE THAN THIS.” –MARK TWAIN FOR EVERY MAN THAT HAS

worn one, he knows that there is nothing quite like the feel of a custom made suit. Sure, casual dress is on the rise in the workplace but there are many work environments, such as Wall Street firms, where formal business attire is still the norm and looking the part still matters. In some organizations, nothing sends a clearer message about your status and self worth than a custom-made suit.

The first step to having a great suit made is to find a reputable tailor. Sir Dudley’s Custom Clothier has been designing and providing custom wardrobes for over 25 years with a combination of the finest fabrics, impeccable tailoring and the highest level of personalized service, offering a superior wardrobe experience for his clients. “Our clientele ranges from business executives, entrepreneurs, to pro-Athletes” says Dudley Rayborn, owner of Sir Dudleys.

Rayborn purchased a men’s clothing store in the early 80’s where he gained knowledge as a clothier, merchandiser and buyer. He continued to further his knowledge of the clothing business and later branched out into custom clothing.

Since its inception, Rayborn has been making cus-

tom made clothing for successful business leaders.

Inspired by London’s famed Savile Row and observing emerging fashion trends from Italy, England and other parts of the world, he designs Bespoke clothing as well as creates garments with a unique twist in color or pattern.

Rayborn emphasizes the importance of getting to know his clients, so that not only do their suits provide a custom fit, but also captures and represents the individuality of the person for whom the garment is being designed. “We take variables such as body type, complexion, personality and style into consideration when creating your custom wardrobe.

Clients say that the workmanship, product knowledge, attention to detail and service is what makes it readily apparent why we have been able to establish such a loyal following. We pride ourselves by providing the client with value, knowledge, and very personal service.”

The quality of any great garment is completely dependent on the fabric used to make it. Sir Dudley’s Tailormade suits are made from the best quality fabrics, with strict attention paid to the stitching. This will ensure that the suit lasts for many years, often a lot longer than

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the factory-made versions.

From the mills of Ermenegildo Zegna, Scabal, Dormeuil, Vitale Barberis, Loro Piana, Marzoni, and Holland & Sherry, Sir Dudley’s extensive selection of over 10,000 Italian and English Fabrics reflect superior quality that make a difference in their wearing. Fabrics range from Super 110’s to Super 250’s in various weights, shapes, and compositions.

“When it comes to Bespoke and custom clothing, we believe there is a difference between something of value and something that is just expensive. We are confident that dollar for dollar, stitch for stitch, our service and quality garments will deliver the best value in the market.” Why wear a shirt made to fit everyone when you could be wearing a custom shirt designed just for you with top quality fabric and the look of perfection with meticulous attention to detail.

Because he often works with exclusive clientele, Rayborn offers personalized and convenient consultations, meeting with clients at their home or office for wardrobe analysis and planning, saving them valuable time.

While anyone can put on a garment, it is accessorizing that really takes it to a new level of sartorial elegance.

Sir Dudley’s offers a distinguished line of accessories to compliment an entire wardrobe for dress and casual needs. In Rayborn’s opinion, “It is the difference between dressing and dressing well.”

Sir Dudley’s also offer ladies garments which consist of handmade custom suits, trousers and tailored shirts, making a fine clothing paradise.

With a passion for creating a personalized and unique style that you simply cannot find on a store shelf.

It is his mission to design a wardrobe for his clients that they will enjoy, cause others to take notice, and provide them with the confidence to close the deal when they enter the board room.

“The difference between looking good and looking great is attention to detail.”

COURTESY OF DUDLEY RAYBORN

DUDLEY RAYBORN

A R TS & E N T E R TA I N M E N T

The Copa Grooming Lounge AN EXCEPTIONAL GROOMING EXPERIENCE FOR THE EXCEPTIONAL MALE JONI FLETCHER

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Corey Baillow and Trevin Melton, owners of the Copa Grooming Lounge CLAUDE LAGUERRA JR.

IT’S A CHIC MEN’S SALON BY DAY and an upscale lounge by night. Corey Baillow and Trevin Melton are the masterminds behind the new Copa Grooming Lounge. These men plan to take Central Florida by storm, offering affordable premium services from professional haircuts to hot towel shaves. At Copa Grooming Lounge clients will not only experience the finest pampering, but also the best of the nightlife scene.

A R TS & E N T E R TA I N M E N T

Baillow has been in the hair-care industry for over 25 years. He has worked in high-end salons and traditional barbershops. Some of his most notable experience includes working with Paul Mitchell and doing stage work for Disney-MGM Studios and Universal Studios Orlando. For the past seven years, Baillow has also been making his name known as an Orlando nightlife promoter. He’s hosted events at the Amway Center and a number of local night clubs.

After many years of working in cosmetology and promotions, Baillow decided to combine two of his life-long passions and open a classy lounge and barbershop where men can enjoy a cocktail, watch sports and escape the everyday stressors of life.

During the day Copa Grooming Lounge is opened as an intimate spot for professional men to come take care of all of their grooming needs. In addition to haircuts and the most popular service, the hot towel shave, they also offer a number of other services. Some of them include shoe shining, teeth whitening, aromatherapy massages, valet dry cleaning and waxing.

Copa Grooming Lounge targets professional men whose desire is to keep themselves looking fresh and clean on a budget. Membership plans are available to men committed to being well-groomed frequently.

“I used to work in an

“Our goal is to get guys back to being well-groomed men and be a positive influence on young men in our society.”

—Corey Baillow

upscale barbershop and we used to do the hot towel shaves that you see in Atlantic City and Las Vegas. They used to charge $65.00 for a hot towel shave. Our clientele was 95% Caucasian and I always wondered why they didn’t cater to a more diverse area. I decided to take the same concept and offer it to a diverse clientele with more services and affordable prices,” said Baillow.

In an effort to keep up the image of the grooming lounge, the barbers must come dressed daily in dress shirts, slacks and hard bottoms. Although the lounge caters mainly to professional men, they don’t close their doors to younger males. If they want to come in and get pampered there’s one rule; No Sagging Pants. This rule keeps the mission of the lounge alive.

“Our goal is to get guys back to being well-groomed men and be a positive influ-

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ence on young men in our society,” said Baillow.

Once the men are groomed with top notch services, Baillow and Melton wanted to make sure they had somewhere to show off their new looks. Once the salon is closed for the day, the other side Fahrenheit Lounge opens to the public. The lounge holds an estimated 200 people, providing an intimate location to mix and mingle.

In an upscale atmosphere partygoers can enjoy networking parties, live music and dancing with professional men and women of Orlando. Baillow and Melton’s vision for the lounge is to provide the best of live music and entertainment to the city. They have a number of up and coming artists who perform and DJs from all over the country that come and take the stage on a regular basis. In addition, a specialty party, Tailor’s Night, is offered to the

public once a month. During Tailors Night a designer comes in and designs custom made shirts or ties for the guys. Amidst the entertainment, the finest top shelf cognacs, wines and whiskeys are offered on a nightly basis.

Staying true to its nature, the owners have opted to keep the Copa Grooming Lounge classy both day and night. They encourage the guys to wear slacks and hard bottoms and the ladies to come dressed to impress.

“The lounge is an intimate spot for professional men and women to come and have what I call a ‘honeycomb hideout’. It’s a nice low-key atmosphere where you don’t have to worry about any Joe Blow bumping into you,” said Baillow.

Whether you want to pamper yourself or party, Copa Grooming Lounge takes care of your needs day and night.

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S P O R TS & R E C R E AT I O N

From Mad Scientist to Mad Man

S

RICKIE WEEKS, PRESIDENT OF THE ORLANDO MONARCHS BASEBALL CLUB

BY DR. K L NEWHOUSE

SCIENCE PHENOM RICHARD Weeks has starred in numerous roles: Athlete, Coach, Teacher, Entrepreneur, Scientist, Humanitarian, and his most treasured: Father of Four. Weeks’, A native of Morris-

Making the Monarchs Weeks prides himself most on his role as father, which guided a destiny shaping decision to retire early to devote more hands-on time. His delight is parenting and grooming his two sons spiritual and baseball lives. With the fusion of his brilliant science mind and infallible baseball knowledge he created a skills training program that equally developed his sons’ baseball intellect and athletic gifts. As his sons segued to college additional layers of his destiny unfolded.

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On his visits with Rickie II at Southern University an epiphany manifested. Witnessing the caliber of baseball talent at Historically Black Colleges & Universities (HBCU) intensified his determination to offer a forum for these players to display their talents, expand their skills, and gain visibility with Major League Scouts.

The Weeks’ birthright surged when both sons

Rickie Weeks on the set of Fox’s Orlando Matters with Keith Laundry and team mascot “Satchel” (honoring Satchel Paige)

COURTESY OF DR. KLNEWHOUSE

town, New Jersey, credits quality teachers, challenging instruction, and local leaders’ engagement at his Orange, New Jersey schools with the foundational values that still guide him today.

An interesting detour interrupted his journey to becoming the next great physician or dentist: baseball consumed his heart.

Weeks inherited his love to baseball through his grandfather, who was a well-regarded player.

Moreover, his father was a notable Negro League player, and his amazing skills led to a baseball scholarship at Seton Hall. He eventually transferred to the University of Central Florida and earned a Biological Sciences Degree with a Minor in Chemistry. Senior year arrived and he got married. Soon after that he enjoyed graduation and decided to pursue employment versus his passion. Although, he was successful with The Walt Disney World Company, Second Harvest, his charity, and his restaurant... baseball loomed on the periphery.

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S P O R TS & R E C R E AT I O N (Left) Orlando Monarchs Season 2012 Closing Event: Baseball under the Stars 2012 with Owner/President Rickie Weeks, Orlando Sentinel Editor Mark Russell, WFTV Channel 9 Senior Anchor Greg Warmoth, and Florida League President Rob Sitz (Center) Orlando Monarchs Owner/President Rickie Weeks and “Satchel” Mascot (Right) Orlando Monarchs Team Pre-Game Fan Greeting.

Making a Difference: MAD Man Weeks’, one of the first African-American founders of a Summer League Club, knows he was built for this moment. His zeal for education, gift of science, baseball prowess, compassion for others, and dedication to his children culminated in his life purpose: leveraging baseball to fuel the dreams

Weeks is motivated to teach baseball’s business-side to his sons and others whom he mentors. of children otherwise forgotten in society. His vision included establishing the Monarchs home at Historic Tinker Field, calculated to provide options for innercity families and to restore Tinker’s honorable place in Orlando. The Monarchs success is inextricably linked to the epicenter of his calling: Weeks II Success Youth Camp (W2S). W2S exceeds the bounds of an ordinary baseball camp it’s a life-raft for a community. Each summer W2S provides affordable access to skills development, equipment, and baseball mentors, undergirded with discipline, life-skills workshops and a mandatory reading program.

Weeks is motivated to

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teach baseball’s businessside to his sons and others whom he mentors. Although, his science savvy may have easily contributed to curing a strain of cancer, his baseball aptitude is curing a societal cancer through making a difference by teaching tangible lessons to those previously underserved.

The 2013 Season commences in May, for more info: www.FloridaLeague. com click Orlando Monarchs.

For more info on Orlando Monarchs Corporate Sponsorships, to host your next memorable event, or to donate to Weeks II Success please contact: KNEWImage Consulting, @sportsheiress, www.knewimageconsulting. com click Contact Us.

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signed Major League contracts (Rickie-Milwaukee Brewers and Jemile-Oakland Athletics). Rickie’s desire to fill his “empty-baseball nest” collided head-on with his legacy and the Orlando Monarchs Summer League Club was born. The Monarchs serves as the summer league destination for HBCU players, pays homage to the historical Negro League and icon Satchel Page. Lastly, it anchors the Weeks II Success Youth Camps. In the Monarchs’ 2012 inaugural season the team emerged as a monumental force. In pure Rickie Weeks fashion they made history: producing seven All-Stars, awarded for best player, finished third in the league, and more accolades.

MIN D, B OD Y A N D S O U L

Dr. Akash Nanda a radiation oncologist with MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando greets his patient Rupert Cole, of Ocoee, at Orlando Health’s new cancer treatment facility.

C

ORLANDO HEALTH’S ACQUISITION OFFERS NEW OPPORTUNITIES FOR WEST ORLANDO RESIDENTS

BY KATIE DAGENAIS, ORLANDO HEALTH CANCER PATIENTS LIVING IN WEST ORANGE COUNTY NOW

have more options right in their own backyard when it comes to receiving cancer care. Orlando Health is now offering fulltime radiation oncology and medical oncology services at Health Central Hospital located in Ocoee. Services include radiation treatments, infusion treatments and chemotherapy. The new cancer treatment facility, a 16,500 square foot building located across the street from Health Central, also houses a Varian TrueBeam™ medical linear accelerator machine. This is one of only two locations in Central Florida offering this advanced radiation technology which treats breast, lung and prostate cancer patients.

“We are thrilled to be able to bring cancer services right to west Orange County,” said Greg Ohe, President, Health Central Hospital. “We continue to see the number of men and women diagnosed with cancer climbing and by having these services at Health Central, cancer patients can now receive the best care available right in their own neighborhoods.”

The opening of the cancer facility comes following Orlando Health’s acquisition of Health Central this past April. The new cancer facility initially brought 20 new jobs to the area with more jobs expected as its cancer services expand.

Prostate cancer Prostate cancer is a slow spreading cancer of the prostate gland, which surrounds the neck of the bladder and the 22 RY SE MAGAZINE | M A RCH/ A P RIL 2013

Symptoms of Prostate Cancer For most men, prostate cancer does not cause symptoms but is detected because of an elevation in serum prostate specific antigen (PSA). However, there are still symptoms that may suggest prostate cancer: Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms • Frequency in urination • Hard time when starting to urinate, or trying to hold it back • Not being able to urinate • Weak or interrupted urine flow • Painful or burning urination • Hematuria (visible or microscopic): blood visible in the urine • Difficulty in having an erection • Blood in the semen • Frequent pain or stiffness in the lower back, hips or upper thighs Pain Symptoms • Back pain • Pelvic pain • Bone pain Continued on page 67

ORLANDO HEALTH

Get the facts on Prostate Cancer

urethra. Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer diagnosed among American men, accounting for nearly 200,000 new cancer cases in the United States each year.

Greater than 65% of all cases of prostate cancer are diagnosed in men 65 years and older. The incidence of prostate cancer increases with age with the lifetime risk for the average American man is about one-in-six.

Thanks to innovative treatments, improved diagnostic methods and increased public awareness the death rate from prostate cancer is declining and an increasing number of tumors are being detected at an earlier more testable stage. Not all prostate cancers are clinically significant. Some men may not require treatment. However, clinically significant prostate cancer is a treatable and curable disease for most men.

I do more than wear scrubs. I earn them.

Everything I do starts with you.

Grace Caldwell, RN — Pediatric Oncology, Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children

As part of Orlando Health, Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children is committed to providing access to the most advanced technology available and the most compassionate care possible. It’s this level of dedication to putting children first that’s made Arnold Palmer Hospital the preferred children’s hospital in Central Florida.

Orlando Regional Medical Center • Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children • Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando • Dr. P. Phillips Hospital • Health Central Hospital • South Seminole Hospital South Lake Hospital • Physician Associates • Orlando Health Physician Group M AR C H / APR I L 2 0 1 3 | WWW. RY SEM AG AZ I N E .C OM 2 3

TE C H S AV Y

Tech Gifts for Guys 7 GADGETS THAT ARE SURE TO BRING OUT THE KID IN ANY MAN It’s that time to start thinking of gift ideas for that special man in your life. Fortunately, men are easy to shop for. Nearly all men like tech gadgets of some kind and there’s no better way to a man’s heart than through technology. Oh yeah, food ranks pretty high up there too.

Whether he’s trying to perfect his golf swing, tracking his mogul runs, moonlight as a movie director, or garner the title of Grill Master these gadgets are sure to do the trick.

Pebble - E-Paper Watch for iPhone and Android Pebble is the first watch built for the 21st century. It’s infinitely customizable, with beautiful downloadable watch faces and useful internet-connected apps. Pebble connects to iPhone and Android smartphones using Bluetooth, alerting you with a silent vibration to incoming calls, emails and messages.

Apps bring Pebble to life. Cyclists can use Pebble as a bike computer, accessing the GPS on your smartphone to display speed, distance and pace data. Runners get a similar set of data displayed on their wrist. Use the music control app to play, pause or skip tracks on your phone with the touch of a button. If you’re a golfer, feel free to bring Pebble onto the course. Golfers will even have an app with the golf rangefinder app for Pebble that works on over 25,000 courses world-wide.

Instead of using your phone, view your current distance to the green right on your wrist. $150, www.getpebble.com GoPro Hero 3 Camera Size certainly doesn’t matter when it comes to the new GoPro Hero 3, which is even smaller then it’s predecessor, has twice the image-processing power, an improved lens, and a new integrated smartphone app. The latest version of the brand’s waterproof and impact-resistant wearable camera can record your adventures from the ski slopes in Aspen to exploring the underwater world of the colorful marine life in the Turks and Caicos in full HD or by live stream over the Internet. $200 to $400, www.gopro.com.

Grill Alert Talking Remote Meat Thermometer Every gill likes to think he is a Grille Master. Well the Grill Alert Talking Remote Meat Thermometer will help those men who may were that mantel in their own eyes. The wireless belt-clip monitor announces when entrées are cooked to perfection.

Select meat type, choose preferred cooking temperature, close the grill—then walk away and enjoying the party! The wireless belt clip attached monitor will alert you when your entrée are cooked to perfection. $70, www.brookstone.com

Golfsense 3D Swing Analyzer At only 17 grams, that aspiring serious golfer can attach this tiny sensor to their golf glove, pair it with their smartphone, and the GolfSense 3D will analyze everything from club speed to a path to help fix that errant swing. $130, www.golfsense.com

Golf Club Drink Dispenser The best drinks on the links come right from “the Club.” With a real head and shaft, you’ll be the only one to know that your favorite ‘club’ is really an automatic drink dispenser, holding a thirst-quenching 54 fluid ounces (1.6L) of your hot or cold beverage of choice.

A battery-operated pump serves your beverage at the touch of a button. $90, www.sharperimage.com

Nike Fuelband For the health conscious guy trying to stay fit, Nike’s FuelBand bracelet may be the perfect fit gift. It tracks your daily movement, calculating calories burned and activity time via a multicolored LED display; $149, www.nike.com.

Aiptek - MobileCinema i20 DLP Pico Projector Aiptek’s small MobileCinema i20 projector packs a big wallop. Simply plug it into an iPhone and it can project as large as a 50-inch mirror image of the screen on a wall. The built-in battery provides about a movie’s worth of viewing (100 minutes); $150, www.bestbuy.com 24 RY SE MAGAZINE | M A RCH/ A P RIL 2013

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5 M O N EY TA L K S

Creative Ways Start-Up Entrepreneurs Can Make Their Dreams A Reality

BY J. JACKSON SR. (EXCERPT FROM THE BOOK CUBICLE TO CEO)

the expression “it takes money to make money”. But that is easier said than done for aspiring entrepreneurs who may have a great idea but lack the necessary capital to make their dream a reality.

This is a point of frustration for many entrepreneurs, but even more of a struggle for minority entrepreneurs who often times lack the social networks that many tap when searching for those all important start-up funds.

While minorities may face their own challenges, this in no way should be a deterrent for anyone looking to launch their own entrepreneurial venture. We simply must seek out creative ways of securing the funds we need to bring that dream to fruition.

Here are 5 creative ways aspiring entrepreneurs can kick-start their potential million dollar start up:

1. Friends and Family Family and friends are the number one resource most start-up businesses seek in order to get from point A to B. But remember, no one is going to loan you money on your pipe dream or “pie in the sky.” The key is to get all your ducks in a row. Approach friends and family like you would a bank, with a clear business plan, terms of the loan or investment, and even a PowerPoint presentation. Put everything in writing.

If you feel your circle of friends do not possess the type of disposable income that you need to fund your venture, then expand your circle of friends. Began frequenting places where successful people spend their time. At prominent social gatherings, fund raising events, and various volunteer activities. At each event make it a point to introduce yourself to people. Don’t be afraid to share your ideas, but don’t focus on closing a sale when you meet someone. Focus more on building a relationship. Someone may see your vision and believe in you enough to make the investment.

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STARTING A BUSINESS IS TOUGH. WE’VE ALL HEARD

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M O N EY TA L K S

2. Social Lending The Internet has added a layer to the world of new business financing. On social lending websites like Prosper.com and lendingclub.com, individuals can apply for loans from other individuals. The two parties set their terms and the website acts as the intermediary.

These sites are designed around the auction model popularized by eBay. As a borrower, you register on the website and post a loan request for a fixed amount of money at a maximum interest rate. Interested lenders then bid on your loan.

When you find a lender that offers an attractive interest rate, you proceed with the loan.

The terms of the loans vary and are negotiated during the process, but all are unsecured loans, which require no collateral. Credit plays a factor when determine your rate, but poor credit does not disqualify you from being funded.

3. CrowdFunding Crowdfunding is an alternative method of raising funds for a business, project or idea, popularized

by Kickstarter.com.

Unlike Angel Investment or Venture Capital in which one person typically takes a larger stake in a small business, with crowdfunding an entrepreneur can attract a ‘crowd’ of people – each of whom takes a small stake in a business idea, by contributing as little as $5 towards an online funding target. While some investors may be hesitant to invest in an unproven idea, crowdfunding provides an alternative way to source seed capital from a number of backers.

The majority of crowdfunding platforms won’t charge you for publishing a project, however they typically take around 5% commission when you reach your target – so you need to factor this into your investment total. If you don’t meet your target, you don’t pay a penny.

To encourage people to invest in your start-up, most websites ask you to offer staggered rewards (such as exclusive access to your first product or a discount on your services) according to how much people invest. Some examples of crowdfunding sites include: RocketHub.com, Kickstarter. com, ProFounder.com, Peerbackers.com, and IndieGoGo.com.

4. Customers We know what you’re thinking, How can customers help finance your new business if it isn’t even a business yet?

The idea is to use your business plan and your charm to convince people to become your customer even before your business is off the ground. Start by building a prototype of the product you want

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to sell, then begin shopping it around to potential buyers to gauge interest. If your product is something that a retailer may be interested in, try securing a pre-ordered purchase of your product. You can then have that retailer sign a letter of credit saying it will pay for the pre-purchased units upon delivery. With that letter of credit, you can convince suppliers to offer trade credit until your product is delivered and the invoice is satisfied.

This option may even work for service based companies as well. Consider you’re a hairdresser with a loyal clientele. If you decide to start your own beauty salon, you might want to ask your long-time clients to become investors. Throw in free service for life, and you may have yourself a deal. But be sure to put EVERYTHING in writing.

5. Revenue Sharing Most start-up capital will go to operations and advertising. One way to reduce the risk and cost of launching a new consumer product is to get media outlets to run your ads for free. That’s exactly what Robert Smith did when he launched Drive & Grow Rich Inc. Smith sold over $1 million worth of product and services without paying a cent for advertising.

Every media outlet has some unsold airtime.

Instead of taking a loss on it, they give it to Smith in exchange for a split of the sales.

Because his products are attractive to a broad demographic, his media partners run the Drive & Grow Rich advertisements at every opportunity.

His 30-and 60-second ads run repeatedly throughout the day on radio and TV. Media companies have literally funded his startup and growth. I have used thousands of dollars worth of media in two years and never paid for any of it outof-pocket.

These 5 creative ideas will help you when the time comes to launch your new venture, but first and foremost you will need to prove that you are serious and have confidence in the product or service that you will be offering.

So while you may not have to funds now, prepare your business and marketing plan, get your estimates together for the equipment you may need, put together a complete package as if you were going to present it to the bank, fund as much of the start-up as you can on your own, and as Billionaire Entrepreneur Bob Johnson says, “Make your friends before you need them”.

There’s the old adage, “When preparation meets opportunity, it equals success”. Prepare for your opportunity. You’d be surprised at the resources that begin to cross your path that will undoubtedly help you to succeed.

L AW & O R D E R

The Pricing No Man’s Land

BY ED ALEXANDER ESQ.

R

RECENTLY I READ CHRIS Ander-

son’s book “Free: How Today’s Smartest Businesses Profit by Giving Something for Nothing.” It’s a fascinating book that looks at the free economy, including the Fremium business model, and how companies are making money by providing free digital content and services.

One of the key points of the book is the big volume difference between free and a very low price.

When Amazon began offering free shipping for orders of $25 or more, the average amount of each order increased everywhere but in France.

When Amazon executives noticed the French anomaly, they discovered that, due to a website error, shipping in France wasn’t free. Instead, the French Amazon website charged 1 Franc (about $0.20 at the time).

This small cost differentially wiped out most of the impact of free shipping because it forced customers to think about the purchase and that thought process created additional mental cost for the customer. Even though the shipping cost was low, merely having to decide to pay any amount eliminated the benefit for most purchasers.

Once the error was corrected, sales increased as they had elsewhere.

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We’ve all seen the cost / demand graph in economics class.

Looking like an ‘X,’ it shows an increase in demand as cost decreases.

But, the Amazon example shows that demand actually increases dramatically as the price hits zero (i.e., it’s not linear). Something special happens when things are free.

This concept was in the back of my mind as I read a column in Inc. Magazine by Jason Fried, a co-founder of the 37 Signals software company, entitled: Go Ahead, Raise Your Prices.

The column was about an iPad app the 37 Signals team had created for internal use called “Draft.” Draft was ultimately offered as a product. However, where similar iPad applications were sold at prices between $0.99 and $4.99, 37 Signals had the audacity to price its product at $9.99.

The column discussed the backlash against 37 Signals for it’s pricing, but the company stood firm.

Jason’s reason was that, even with a much lower sales volume, 37 Signals can achieve a reasonable amount of revenue and gross margin to enable it to provide support to keep customers happy. The company can make money and build goodwill simultaneously.

The conundrum with low price is that you have to sell a lot of product to make any amount of money. And when customers spend money – any amount of money – they have expectations. The company has to support the product or risk the loss of customer goodwill. Plus, the company still has to actually sell; that is, get people to buy it.

This “pricing no man’s land” means it may be better to either: • Give away products and services (that have nearly zero marginal cost) as means to create demand for high margin products and services; or • Sell products and services at high enough prices to allow for proper support and so the company can make enough from sales to make the product worthwhile.

And, for those who are thinking they can’t price their products higher because of competitive pressures, that situation means you either have to differentiate your product or accept that it’s a commodity.

If your product’s a commodity (and this isn’t the case most of the time), don’t waste any more effort on it. Rather, give it away as a lead into other high margin products.

Either scenario is better than living in “Pricing No Man’s Land.”

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IS IT POSSIBLE THAT GIVING AWAY A PRODUCT IS BETTER THAN SELLING IT FOR A LOW PRICE?

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RYSE CONNECTED

O N TH E RY S E

A GROUP OF ENTREPRENEURS ARE COMMITTED TO EACH OTHERS SUCCESS

BY YOLANDA BARUCH ing board for new ideas, discuss current industry insights and changes or even to simply have a casual conversation to gripe about your boss. While these simple items may seem minuscule, they are the very things that entrepreneurs lack that may cause them to feel isolated at times on their entrepreneurial journey.

The ever growing world of technology that’s supposed to connect us: text messaging, email, voicemail and smartphones, actually serve as tools that further disconnects them from personal relationship with peers, fueling their loneliness, enabling them to do an even better job of isolating themselves.

To combat this dilemma, many business owners find themselves joining peer groups like Entrepreneur’s Organization, National Association of Women Business Owners, and Meet up groups, which have prospered because they fulfill the need of having like

minded peers to share their ideas, successes and even struggles with.

It is that very need on which entrepreneur J. Jackson decided to launch the peer mentoring group RYSE Connected. “Our Master Mind Group serves as a business roundtable for a small group of business owners where we discuss techniques, opportunities, and share contacts to help one another grow our companies. The group also serves as an accountability partner holding each other accountable for the actions that are needed in order to achieve success,” states Jackson.

RYSE Connected founding members include TK Walker, owner of EventGrabber.com, a digital marketing and event sharing platform, which provides tools that automate event promotion and management for event promoters and organizers, Gerard Merritt, owner

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B JACKSON PHOTOGRAPHY

As an entrepreneur, navigating a start-up company through the difficult terrains that face every business owner such as lack of capital and resources, assessing proposed risks for continued opportunities and growth, and gaining clients in order to generate cash flow for said venture can prove to be a daunting task for neophyte business owners.

While often glamorized, the path of entrepreneurship can be a very lonely road to travel at times. For many startup and solo-entrepreneurs, often the feeling of lonesomeness stems from their belief that no one else shares their vision, their passion or understands the struggles of someone working to build a successful business.

In a typical corporate setting, ideas can be freely exchanged and challenged. Co-workers and colleagues are easily accessible to: serve as a sound-

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of CelleC Games, Inc., which designs and develops Innovative Educational Games for enhanced learning, Solomon Williams owner of BidWilly.com whose site serves as a marketplace where businesses and people compete to do the things you need done., Tim Stephens Director of Sales for RYSE, and Samuel Lee, owner of the Mr. Date Coach, a relationship consulting company. The group meets every two weeks to keep each other on track, and primarily meet at minority owned venues. In between meetings, they also group text message each other if they have questions or looking for feedback on the fly.

Solomon Williams, founder of BidWilly. com boasts that, “RYSE Connect is a great outlet for me to come and openly speak about my business without worrying if the person sitting next to me has my best interest in mind. I also love it because the input and feedback is invaluable which leads to actionable items that I take back to my team to begin working on immediately.”

The idea of a Master Mind Group is not a new one and was first introduced in Napoleon Hill’s classic, Think and Grow Rich. Hill defined the Mastermind Group as, “A coordination of knowledge and effort, in a spirit of harmony, between two or more people, for the attainment of a definite purpose.”

Hill’s concept of the “Master Mind” was inspired by Andrew Carnegie, the wealthy steel magnate. According to Hill: “Mr. Carnegie’s Master Mind group consisted of a staff of approximately fifty men, with whom he surrounded himself, for the DEFINITE PURPOSE of manufacturing and marketing steel. He attributed his entire fortune to the POWER he accumulated through this ‘Master Mind.’”

Since the publication of Think and Grow Rich in the 1937, the idea of mastermind groups has grown and evolved to become a staple tool of successful individuals.

Tim Stephens, who is credited with coming up with the RYSE Connected name says, “It is inspiring to be around a group of forward thinkers. It motivates you to want to push further. My goal is to see RYSE Connected expand to include a wider group of people with even more fresh ideas.”

At their meetings, each individual is encouraged to participate and share their successes and struggles in their

respective businesses. The intent of the group is to hold each member accountable for their goals, celebrate their successes and support one another through times of laborious challenges.

Gerard C. Merritt Founder of CelleC Games, Inc., says, “I really like our Master Mind Group because it allows me to discuss my ideas whether good or bad, ask questions, and voice concerns.

The MMG has kept me driven and focused on my business; it made me realize where I came up short and what I was doing right. I’m glad that I’m part of a group of visionaries and leaders in their own right.”

According to the U.S. census data, the nation’s minorities represent 27 percent of today’s population and 90 percent of forecasted population growth for the next 50 years. At the moment, they own only 14.6 percent of the nation’s businesses, but neophyte, minority-owned firms have been expanding at more than six times the rate of all firms in the U.S. and are growing at nearly twice the rate of all firms in annual sales.

There are more than three million minority-owned firms with aggregate sales of nearly $600 billion. The founders of RYSE Connect recognize this opportunity for exceptional growth for black owned businesses and decided that the formulation of this alliance will provide an outlet for like-minded entrepreneurs to meet and network while developing service components designed to increase productivity, profitability, and purpose.

RYSE Connect members all know how necessary it is to be held account-

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able for their actions in order to achieve success. TK Walker CEO of Eventgrabber.com states, “RYSE Connected has been a critical building block and bridge for me to share my current obstacles and connect with key resources needed to get from startup to building a thriving business.”

For now, the group feels that it’s important that the circle remain small, so that emphasis is placed on effective results in each other’s business and not just serve as a social gathering, however the group plans to eventually bring in other individuals and explore insight from financial experts, business leadership, political leadership, and academia.

Ultimately, the results of the group have been a positive one, with Walker’s web based company garnering national recognition, receiving just under 1 million page views and over 150,000 visitors in its first year, and William’s company being responsible for close to one million dollars in transacted business within the local economy. Members have also gained an increased sense of motivation and satisfaction in their businesses and as well as strengthened professional partnerships with other like-minded individuals.

History has proven that there is no such thing as a self-made man [or woman]. Success comes as a result of many people working together towards a common goal. It was as true back in 1930’s for Andrew Carnegie as it is close to a century later in 2013. RYSE Connected’s common goal? It is borrowed from a piece of Congressional legislation and simply states, No Entrepreneur Left Behind.

B JACKSON PHOTOGRAPHY

O N TH E RY S E

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B US IN E S S S E N S E

Now Hiring?

J

THE FACTS ABOUT AFRICAN AMERICAN MEN’S UNEMPLOYMENT

BY MARO ONOKPISE

numbers don’t”. If we are to subscribe to this thesis, we would be remiss if we didn’t take a closer look at a few statistics.

There are still roughly 13 million unemployed Americans as of the August 2012 jobs report that was released in early September. The unemployment rate fell to 8.1% down from 8.2% in July. How does that sound to you? In actuality, it’s not that great.

Major Media Outlets (CNN, MSNBC, FOX), don’t report or focus on unemployment rates in the African American community; which is a staggering is 14.1%. For African American men it doesn’t get any better. The unemployment rate for African American males is 15.5 %. This is a whole seven percentage points higher than the national average!

Last summer, the African American unemployment rate hit 16.7 percent, its highest level since 1984. This leads me to another quote by Political Strategist/TV Personality Tavis Smiley, “When White America gets a cold, Black folks get Pneumonia!”

Though the recession and continuing economic downturn has been devastating to the American middle class as a whole; the years since the declared end of the collapse have been singularly harmful to middle-class African Americans.

This group has been hit hardest by layoffs, lack of education, and unemployment according to government data. About one in five workers have public-sector jobs, and African-American workers are one-third more likely than white ones to be employed in this field.

So, where is my point to all of this? Economists say there are a variety of reasons for the racial gap. They include the following, but I get the felling you won’t be too surprised by the results. One, most African-Americans lack the education to get higher-earning jobs. Two, discrimination is still a very REAL issue for folks of the chocolate persuasion. Third, some African Americans are not willing to move out of their comfort levels to find work. Yes, home is a wonderful. But if home isn’t hiring, I’m packing my bags.

Personally I am bullish on the future of the jobs market. More and more employers are hiring, which means our economy is gradually on the rise. What we have to do is educate and prepare our brothers for jobs of the future and

The unemployment rate for African American males is 15.5 % that begins with education. The future of the jobs industry is already here, whether we choose to accept it or not. There are certain areas of the country where there are more jobs available than there are candidates to fill them. This is what I call labor polarization.

Labor polarization means there is a need for higher skilled workers (engineers, IT, etc.) and lower level careers (servers, laborers, etc.). Ultimately, mid-level executives, (which are where most individuals find themselves), seem to be squeezed out of the equation and compete for few jobs that are available. That explains why it’s difficult to land a job.

The way to get around this is to identify the employers that are doing the hiring. We don’t need politicians to talk about their plans for creating jobs, we just need them to pass regulations that make it easier for businesses to hire and retain employees. The good news is there are quite a few companies in Central Florida that are bucking the trend, and doubling down on their hiring. Based on a recent study

by SimplyHired, here are the top companies that are aggressively hiring in Central Florida.

1. Adventist Health Systems 2. Florida Hospital 3. Lockheed Martin 4. Winn Dixie Keep it mind, if the job you want isn’t out there...create it!

This country was built on entrepreneurs. Why can’t you join this special club?

I strongly believe that the employment situation is improving. The media paints a very different picture. Therefore, I am challenging everyone to go on an information diet. Don’t pay attention to news reports. Spend your time networking and getting to know others in the field that you desire to be your chosen career. Over 80% of jobs filled were never advertised. It’s not who you know, it’s who knows you.

Maro Onokpise is the founder of Jobtrakr.com, a site dedicated to helping job seekers. Prior to turning his sights on the job industry, Maro was an Associate Store Manager for Banana Republic. In 2010 Maro was featured on the cover of Career Magazine and was also named to Orlando Business Journal’s 40 Under 40. Maro is also a graduate of the University of Central Florida.

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ISTOCKPHOTO.COM

JAY Z FAMOUSLY ONCE SAID, “MEN LIE, WOMEN LIE, BUT

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B US IN E S S S E N S E

What Type of Leader are you?

O

WHAT DO LEADERS AND MATTRESSES HAVE IN COMMON?

BY JASON GOLDBERG OVER THE YEARS, IN VIEWING OTHERS

and reflecting upon my own leadership style I have seen a vast array of differences and similarities. I wanted to take the opportunity today to funnel all of my research and experience with leadership styles down to what I think is a very simple concept…Mattresses!

In my experience, there have been 3 kinds of mattresses, firm, soft and of course the revolutionary memory foam varieties. I will leave waterbeds out of this example as the 80’s are a decade best left to nostalgia in other forms.

Let’s examine these mattress/leadership styles. While you are reading, start to think about which is your primary style and recognize any style that you encounter from others on a regular basis.

like a dictatorship, this style is not all bad. There is a focus by the “Firm” leader to an adherence to processes, procedures and measurable metrics and outputs. These measurements are extremely important in ensuring operational efficiency, without which organizations may just flail about without ever knowing where they stand or how they can improve. BottomLine: This leader may earn respect but not trust. The focus here is on results first and relationships second.

THE “SOFT” LEADER: This is the best

bud boss; personable, often times supportive and collaborative. The leader you can tell all of your problems to and they will empathize and want more than anything to help you solve your

issues, whether they are personal or professional. Some may refer to this as “touchy-feely” leadership (something that causes the “Firm” leader to shudder), and it can be if taken to an extreme. Often times the “Soft” leader is so concerned with being liked that they will make popular decisions instead of the right decision, they will shy away from conflict and debate (even when its healthy and ultimately improves the situation), and may provide a disservice by not giving constructive feedback as needed or accepting constructive feedback as it may seem like a personal attack instead of the recommendation for improvement that it should be. Bottom-Line: This leader may earn trust but not respect. The focus here is on relationships first and results second.

THE “FIRM” LEADER: We all know this

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THE “MEMORY FOAM” LEADER: This

one is a bit trickier. In my opinion, the memory foam leader is focused more on their impact than on an actual style of leadership. This leader focuses on communication, charisma and engagement.

Compared with the first two styles, this leader is probably more “Soft” than “Firm” and is more aware of their own intentions and impressions than the other two types.

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type; command and control; results, results, results! This person has a vast amount of authority typically based on their role or title and you as a follower are expected to fall in line. Inspiration and engagement are not typically in this type of leader’s vocabulary. They believe that the need to stay in compliance with the rules and requirements is enough to drive the employees to achieve. Though it sounds

I think back to the commercials advertising this mattress and remember the well-groomed hand being pushed down into the bed and the fully-formed handprint being left behind when the hand was removed. It was clear that the intention when pressing down on the bed was to make a handprint and the impact left behind matched up perfectly; no confusion there.

This is the goal of the “Memory Foam” leader, to align their intentions with their impact when delivering their message and to ensure that the message intended is the message received.

They aim to remove ambiguity and uncertainty, to exhibit control without dictating and to strengthen bonds without sacrificing achievement of the goals at hand. In fact, if executed properly, connections are strengthened and outcomes are improved as a result of such a style.

The biggest concern with the “Memory Foam” leader is this; the proverbial handprint will eventually disappear. The key to success for this type of leader is to continually and authentically remind their followers of the intention of their message and the impression and impact they desired to create. That impression may have at one time been so clear (like when the hand is first pressed down on the mattress) but overtime has been forgotten or diminished in perceived importance or significance (like when the handprint fills in and the mattress returns to a flat surface).

Bottom-Line: This leader earns trust AND respect. The focus here is on results and relationships simultaneously.

So here is the rub; leadership, like mattresses, is NOT one size fits all.

Even though the “Memory Foam” leader may seem to be your best bet, this is not always the case. In reality, situational leadership is what everyone should learn, ensuring that you have

all of these styles at your disposal as the situation dictates.

There are situations where information is incomplete, time is of the essence and a full facilitative or collaborative session is not feasible. This is where the “Firm” leaders attributes excel because they can quickly weigh the options, decide the best course of action and execute.

Other times, for a variety of reasons, employees may start becoming disengaged and stagnant; unsure if they can reach lofty goals or hit deadlines. The “Soft” leader is there to empathize with their situation, give them an ear to allow them to feel heard and genuinely cared about and help coach them to a better outcome.

Finally, the “Memory Foam” leader can take the strengths of both the “Firm” and “Soft” leaders and add their ability to tailor and target their message to inspire, rally, and strengthen their team dynamic and team performance. A well-rounded servant leader ensures that the right people are sitting in the right seats on the right bus that is traveling on the right path.

Now that you are a mattress/leadership expect, ask yourself the following questions: 1. Which of these styles come naturally to you; which do you use primarily?

2. Which of these styles seem foreign, awkward or completely out of your comfort zone?

3. How would the dynamic of your team change for the better if you were able to master the style(s) that you identified in number 2?

Try to inject a little bit of the styles you listed above in number 2 daily in your work. Maybe the means privately acknowledging the extra effort that someone has been putting in lately, engaging in healthy conflict or debate to get better results from a project, or delivering a message with charisma and conviction during a staff meeting.

Any step you take in developing your lesser used styles is a step towards you being an even better leader and having a better team.

YOU HAVE THE IDEA. YOU’RE HIGHLY MOTIVATED. NOW YOU NEED A PROFESSIONAL LOOK. Why wait another day?

It’s time for action.

This is your moment and you know it! Contact us today for a free estimate.

There’s absolutely no obligation on your part.

StudioJonesDesign.com jason@studiojonesdesign.com

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OFFICIAL DESIGN STUDIO OF RYSE MAGAZINE

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B US IN E S S S E N S E

Is Central Florida an Area for Professional Development?

YOUNG PROFESSIONALS EXAMINE THE POTENTIAL AND PROBLEMS OF ENTREPRENEURSHIP IN CENTRAL FLORIDA

BY DEVIN HEFLIN

perspectives of Orlando when considering life in the City. To paraphrase the words of novelist Charles Dickens, Orlando is everywhere but nowhere.

Downtown Orlando is a bustling area of businesses, clubs, bars and restaurants that epitomize Central Florida nightlife.

However, just eighty feet away is the Paramore community, an older African-American dwelling that is working hard to bring down crime statistics.

To onlookers, Orlando is “Mickey Mouse land”, comprised of malls, resorts and theme parks. Last year, the city and adjoining areas of Central Florida welcomed economic opportunities. Central Florida hosted the NBA All Star Weekend, which earned praise for its economic relief to an area rattled by the national recession but criticism for the fence that was placed against the neighboring buildings, blocking regular business owners and street vendors.

Central Florida was perceived as a racially progressive town until last year’s fatal Trayvon Martin shooting revealed mismanagement in the ranks of local law enforcement. The aftermath affected surrounding counties, causing law enforcement and elected officials to reevaluate community interaction.

There’s a visible disconnect, according to some young professionals, citing that while Orlando is premier for beginning a business, there’s little stability in keeping it in the area.

Career Opportunities Diomi Miller, a former resident of Central Florida, left the area last year to pursue a better political future. Miller formerly worked for the West Orlando News, a Central Florida news blog. “I’ve always wanted to follow my passion for writing, but struggled to make ends meet there,” she said.

She now resides in Baltimore, Maryland where she’s become active with a chapter of young Democrats.

“My goal is to inspire other young citizens of Maryland, who are very receptive at the meetings I attend and welcome me with open arms.”

Miller aspires to get involved in Maryland politics and applauds the strides the state has already made concerning diversity. “It was refreshing to see Stephanie Rawlings-Blake Mayor of Baltimore, a woman of color in leadership,” she said.

She spent time researching the job market in Maryland and found more connectedness in professional circles.

Compromised Opportunities J. Jackson Sr., 36, lauds Orlando for the beautiful weather and laid back atmosphere, but believes that atmosphere has led to a lack of progression in business, especially in transparency between the older and younger generations of entrepreneurs.

Jackson, an Orlando native, has worked with both generations and would like to see the

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A RESIDENT GAINS MULTIPLE

B US IN E S S S E N S E two come together. “I think it’s important that while the mature generation has the experience, the younger generation has the energy and innovativeness. When you couple these together you’re able to make a stronger impact.”

The former real estate broker, author and publisher started this magazine in the hopes of crafting dialogue between business owners and aspiring business owners.

“African American communities need to come together to generate true power,” Jackson references.

“However, don’t limit your circle. Several people that helped me over the years didn’t always look like me.”

Jackson says that after being featured in the Orlando Business Journal, another Central Florida publication,

he began receiving calls from organizations offering opportunities because they saw value in his talents. Most of the calls he received, he remembers, were from professionals that didn’t share his skin color.

“It’s important for the up and coming young professionals to develop their skill set and always strive to perform above the crowd, but as they elevate, their talents becomes more visible, I feel it is the role of people in positions of leadership, especially in the African American community, to provide them with opportunities to showcase their talents.”

Jackson further states, “I do believe in hard work and paying your dues, but generations before knocked down walls so that opportunities are more readily available

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for the generations to follow, not for the coming generations to have to start at the very beginning” Contrasting Opportunities Another professional, Tezlyn Figaro, Founder and CEO of The Allied Group shares similar sentiments, however she offers a different perspective. Figaro states that there are two perspectives, “The older generation believes in the ‘old school’ work ethic similar to selling the original Kirby vacuum, utilizing door to door sales technique and building one relationship at a time while the younger generation desires a quick fix similar to the ‘dust buster’.

The older generation believes that the younger generation does not pay enough dues while the younger generation believes

there is a much faster and more efficient way of doing business.

As a result of moving too fast, we fail to build creditability. However, I believe that although many of us pay our dues we are often still ‘pushed’ away from the leadership table due to the older generation’s inability to let go.”

Whether there’s a professional vacuum in Central Florida or not, it is up for speculation. To some, Central Florida is an area with many opportunities, while to others looking to better their career with likeminded peers, it’s an area of hindrances.

One thing is for sure, Communication amongst the older and younger generations is a key to growth and prosperity in any market.

Derek Lewis Tony Jenkins Rich Guidotti Tony Coley Ron Fulmore Ron Oats

Travers Johnson Karl Pearson Dio Pouerie Timothy Green Derrick McRae Nelson McCullough

MEN ON THE RYSE

From RYSING Stars to seasoned veterans RYSE takes a moment to spotlight a few of Central Florida’s Powerful and Influential Men on the RYSE in Florida’s business landscape.

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Derek R. Lewis

Recognized in 2012 by Black Enterprise as one of the Top 100 Most Powerful Executives in Corporate America, Derek Lewis is the Derek Lewis is Senior Vice President and General Manager of Pepsi North America Field Operations at PepsiCo Americas Beverages (PAB), a role in which he leads the company’s North American operating business, and guides the field leadership in the Unites States and Canada. With approximately 48,500 employees, Field Operations contributed to $15.3 billion in PBC sales in 2011.

Prior to this position, he was senior vice president and general manager for Pepsi Beverage Company’s South Business Unit (SBU). Under his leadership, the SBU generated $2.8 billion in annual sales and included operations in Florida, Georgia, the Carolinas, Tennessee, Mississippi, Louisiana, Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Texas. Mr. Lewis assumed the role in March 2008 and managed all aspects of PBC’s business in the southern United States.

Previously, he served in PBC’s headquarters as vice president, consumer and category insights, a position he assumed in March 2006. Mr. Lewis led PBC’s growth strategy, annual operating plan, innovation, consumer insights, and the development and execution of national marketing initiatives.

Mr. Lewis served for two years as vice president of retail sales for the Great West Business Unit (GWBU). The GWBU covered 11 states and generated more than $1 billion in annual sales.

Mr. Lewis set the functional agenda for the Business Unit’s entire Retail Sales organization.

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Mr. Lewis joined the Pepsi system as a campus hire in 1988.

He started out as an account representative in Baltimore, Maryland, and progressed through various sales positions of increasing responsibility in the Chesapeake Market Unit.

From 1995 to 1998, Mr. Lewis worked as a market manager for Taco Bell in Cincinnati, Ohio. In 1998, he was named regional sales manager for PBC in Phoenix, Arizona. In 2001, Mr. Lewis was appointed vice president and general manager for PBC in Portland, Oregon.

Mr. Lewis is currently Co-Chair of the PepsiCo North America Beverages’ Diversity Advisory Board, a body comprised of a variety of senior leaders who act as the governing body setting the company’s diversity strategy. Previously, Mr. Lewis served on the board for six years, and helped the company identify and address important diversity issues.

Since settling in Orlando in February 2008, he has played an active role in the community by supporting numerous organizations including Operation Positive Direction, the Orlando Police Department’s Youth Mentoring Program, Nap Ford Community School, Orlando Magic Youth Fund, and others.

In addition, he serves on the Board of Directors for Florida Citrus Sports, Central Florida’s Boy Scouts of America, YMCA of Central Florida, and is a member of the Executive Leadership Council, National Black MBA Association and Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. Mr. Lewis holds a Bachelor of Science degree in business management from Hampton University in Virginia and an Executive Master of Business Administration degree from Xavier University in Ohio.

CLAUDE LAGUERRA JR.

Title: SVP and General Manager of Pepsi North America Field Operations

CLAUDE LAGUERRA JR.

Tony Jenkins

Title: Market President, Central / Northwest Florida Company: Florida Blue Job Description: Responsible for business growth, brand visibility and organizational effectiveness for both regions.

Professional Affiliations: Florida Citrus Sports, Metro Orlando EDC, Central Florida Partnership, Boy Scouts of America, Stetson University, United Arts of Central Florida, Florida Institute for Community Studies What led you to your field of expertise? Have always been interested in seeking opportunities to serve people and communities at large.

Most significant accomplishment: Choosing to remain at Florida Blue and not move to New York City for another professional opportunity.

What motivates you to excel in the workplace? My personal constitution in achieving excellence with myself, my team and those that we do business with and serve.

Biggest obstacle you’ve faced in your career: Balancing work and family

In Retrospect, Is there anything you would change in your career? Nothing at all Best way to keep a competitive edge: Being around like-minded professionals and others that are blazing a creative and new path. Also by staying current with several publications; Fast Company, Harvard Business Review.

Words I live by: “You must become the change you wish to see in the world” Best decision: Moving back to Orlando Worst decision: Waited too long to sell my house Mentor: “H Walker” — McDonalds Corporation Most important lessons you’ve learned: 1. The Platinum Rule — “Treat people the way they want to be treated.” 2. “The greatest tragedy of our social transition is not the noisiness of the so-called bad people, it is the appalling silence of the so-called good people.”

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

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Title: Vice President & General Manager — Greater Florida Company: AT&T Job Description: Responsible for the Profit & Loss of AT&T’s business within Greater Florida What led you to your field of expertise? I wanted to work within a fast growth and dynamic industry.

Most significant accomplishment: Have helped develop a large number of employees which have enabled them to be promoted to higher ranking positions within the corporation.

What motivates you to excel in the workplace? My inner desire to be the best leader possible for my team.

Biggest obstacle you’ve faced in your career: As is true with most executives — the answer is “myself”.

In Retrospect, Is there anything you would change in your career? Yes, I would have focused more on developing others at an earlier point in my career.

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Goal yet to be achieved: Professionally — I want to one day be in charge of my own company.

Best way to keep a competitive edge: Read and always ask for feedback from your team. They know better than anyone your strengths and weaknesses.

Business philosophy: Never accept anything but the best from your team or yourself and always try to improve. It is OK to fail as long as you learn from the error and never repeat the same mistake twice.

Words I live by: Remember that you work to live not live to work.

Best decision: Going to work for AT&T nearly 20 years ago.

Worst decision: I’ve made plenty of mistakes in my career — too many too list.

Mentor: My boss — Steve Sitton Most important lessons you’ve learned: I do better when I keep my mouth shut and ears open.

CLAUDE LAGUERRA JR.

Rich Guidotti

CLAUDE LAGUERRA JR.

Antonio T. “Tony” Coley, SVP

Tony Coley is the Regional President of BB&T, Central Florida, a position he accepted in April of 2012. As BB&T’s most senior executive in Central Florida, he is responsible for the growth and development of the region and its 400+ associates. His previous role as BB&T’s Area Executive in for the Ft. Lauderdale, Florida was preceded by BB&T’s acquisition of Colonial Bank in August of 2009 where he served as the President & CEO of their Commercial Banking Unit.

Tony was a starting linebacker for the UM football team which won three conference championships and played for two national titles. Tony earned numerous accolades for academics, athletics and community service which included: College Football Association’s Academic All-American Team and the University of Miami’s Iron Arrow Honor Society, their highest honor. Tony was also appointed to the NCAA Good Works Team, a national award recognizing outstanding service to the community.

Before joining Colonial, Tony worked with Wachovia Bank, which he joined in 2004 through Wachovia’s acquisition of SouthTrust Bank and remained for almost 8 years. During his tenure with SouthTrust, Tony earned recognition as a top Commercial Relationship Manager and in 2003 Tony was promoted to lead the Small Business Banking Units in Southeast Florida. As a result of his performance in improving his team’s performance to #1 in the company, he was elected to the SouthTrust Bank President’s Club and was a finalist for Market Manager of the Year 2003. Subsequent to SouthTrust’s acquisition by Wachovia, Tony was elected to lead Wachovia’s Broward County Small Business Banking team and produced similar results in improved performance and ranked #2 that year.

Tony remains active in the community, holding a seat on three local boards: Boy Scouts of America Central Florida Council; The Central Florida Partnership; and the Central Florida EDC. While in Fort Lauderdale, Tony served on several boards including the Greater Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce; The Greater Fort Lauderdale Business Alliance; The Community Blood Centers of South Florida; Vice Chair of Jack & Jill Child Development Center, Treasurer of The Central Charter School and Community Ambassador of the United Way of Broward County.

In August 2005 Tony was promoted to the position of City President and Middle Market Banking Director of Wachovia’s North Gulf Coast Region. This represented another opportunity to improve performance as that region ranked last and held the worst customer service scores prior Tony’s arrival, He implemented several changes resulting in improved financial performance as well as being recognized for having the top commercial customer service scores. Tony departed Wachovia to join Colonial Bank in April 2007.

Tony was born and raised in South Florida and is a graduate of the University of Miami, earning a Bachelor of Science degree.

Tony began his banking career at SunTrust Bank in the Management Associate Program where he received management and commercial credit training. After training, Tony worked as an officer in SunTrust’s Corporate Real Estate Department and was appointed Commercial Relationship Manager in 1999. In 2006, Tony was elected by Wachovia Executive Management to participate in their Florida Leadership Experience (FLEX) program for high potential leadership candidates.

In 2011, Tony was honored by the Miami Herald as one of the Top 20 business leaders under 40.

Tony resides in the Orlando area with his wife, Tona and his 16-year old daughter, Taylor.

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Title: Chiropractic Physician Company: Fulmore Chiropractic Job Description: To provide the community with natural, effective, and affordable healthcare that meets or exceeds the expectations of those we serve and educate.

Professional Affiliations: Central Florida Young Professionals Advisory Council (YPAC), American Chiropractic Association (ACA), Florida Chiropractic Association (FCA), American Black Chiropractic Association (ABCA) What led you to your field of expertise? I am a second generation chiropractor, so I was born and raised on the chiropractic philosophy.

Most significant accomplishment: Being able to take my skills and services to the slums of Nairobi Kenya. Nothing can compare to the lessons and appreciation I gained from such beautiful people.

What motivates you to excel in the workplace? The patients are what motivate me.

They look to me to solve many types of health issues. Many times, they enter the office as a last resort to finding relief. I continue to educate and push myself so I can be a resource for them in the community.

In Retrospect, Is there anything you would change in your career? No, I love what I do and I’m excited for what’s in store.

Goal yet to be achieved: I am in the process of starting a second business to care for our patients. It will be a Durable Medical Equipment supply company that will provide medical equipment to those in need. I am aiming to simplify the process for customers who need home medical equipment such as back braces at little to no cost to them.

Best way to keep a competitive edge: The best way to keep a competitive edge is to develop personal, genuine relationships with your patients, colleagues, business partners, and community. Many businesses get caught up in numbers and spending little time with their patients. They forget to slow things down, listen, and connect. We stand out by truly caring for your patients and making sure they know that.

Business philosophy: Complacency will be the architecture of your downfall.

Worst decision: Doubting myself at times.

Mentor: My father.

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CLAUDE LAGUERRA JR.

Dr. Ron Fulmore, II

CLAUDE LAGUERRA JR.

Ron Oates

Title: Executive Director/ CEO Company: Boy Scouts of American Central Florida Council Professional Background: Thirty years as a professional Scouter… started as a Program Aide developing Scouting programs in the housing projects in Miami. Advanced rapidly to Director of Finance and excelled at fundraising and building strategic relationships with civic and corporate leaders.

In 1997, promoted to Executive Director in West Palm Beach, FL becoming the first African American to serve as Executive Director of a Boy Scout Council in Florida. In 2002, promoted to Deputy Regional Director of Operations, which encompassed 13 states, 93 Scout Offices and over 1100 professional Scouters. In 2006, was chosen to serve as Executive Director of the Central Florida Council which is one of the top 15 Boy Scout Council’s in the nation, spanning 7 counties (Flagler, Volusia, Lake, Brevard, Seminole, Orange, and Osceola), serving 27,000 youth scouts and encompassing 9,000 adult leaders.

Professional Affiliations: Serves on the Advisory Board of the Florida Citrus Sports, Board of the African American Chamber of Commerce, Member of the 100 Black Men and member of the Non-Profit CEO Rountable and member of Sigma Pi Phi-Boule.

Most significant accomplishments: Developed an innovative fundraising campaign that raised funds which helped build two schools in Nairobi Kenya. Being the first African-American to be a semi-finalist for the position of CEO for the Boy Scouts of America nationally, which has roughly 6,000 employees. Building one of the strongest and most diverse executive boards, composing Central Florida top industry leaders.

Quote you live by: Golden Rule: Treat EVERYONE the way you want to be treated.

Business Philosophy: Boy Scout motto: Be Prepared.

Empowering staff to be prepared to assume leadership roles within other Boy Scout Councils across America. Be enthusiastic, it’s a sad dog that doesn’t know how to wag his tail.

Best way to keep a competitive edge: keeping mind and body fit…focus on continuous improvement enhancing skill set and learning new hobbies. Establish win-win partnerships and relationships.

What motivates you: Seeing how Scouting program develops young men into leaders. Many times I has seen young boys that were shy enter the program and ultimately transform in young men that are able to lead a troop.

Goal yet to be achieved: To raise 12 million for capital and endowment campaign which will allow Council to expand Scouting programs even more in African American and Hispanic Communities and build a more centrally located Scout Service Center for the 7 county region.

Greatest obstacle you face in your career right now: The Economy — Scouting is built on the gifts of the donors.

When the economy is uncertain, it affects the donations that Scouting receives and we have to adjust accordingly. Thankfully, did not have to lay off any of our staff during the more trying times of 2008-2009.

Best Decision: To come to Orlando. I love the community and the people. Corporate and civic leaders like, Harold Mills, Jacob Stuart and Tico Perez have been tremendous role models and are great advocates of Scouting.

Worst Decision: Buying a house in 2006 at the height of the market.

Hobbies: Golfing, Boating/fishing, Quail Hunting, Sporting Clays. These activities have been valuable tools that have allowed me to strengthen relationships with my staff and corporate/civic leaders Family Life: I enjoy spending time with my wife Eileen and I’m extremely proud of my son, Ronnie Jr. a Manager with AT&T and my daughter Sheree, who graduates this spring from Florida A&M University.

Most Important lesson I’ve learned: 1. Stay Humbled. 2.

Don’t worry about who gets the credit — Be a credit maker not a credit taker.

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Title: Associate Director Of Sales Company: Rosen Hotels & Resorts Job Description: Leadership for and supervision of assigned conference center sales managers prospecting, selling, and contracting activities. Responsible for the faith based and multicultural groups for the synergy sales efforts For Rosen Hotels & Resorts — convention hotels. Work closely with the VP of Sales & Marketing and the Director of Sales & Marketing of the Rosen Shingle Creek, Rosen Centre and the Rosen Plaza hotels to grow convention business and to also assist Conference Center. Sales Managers obtain quota and with sales to ensure achievement of production expectations.

Professional Affiliations: National Coalition Of Black Meeting Planners, Ymca Black Acheivers, Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., Ucf Alumni Association — Board Member, National Associaton For The Advancement Of Colored People, Religious Conference Management Association What lead you to the hospitality field? Working with people is something always enjoyed and shortly after college I met a gentlemen, through a mutual friend, who was the Director of Convention Services at The Omni Rosen. He offered me an entry level job with an opportunity to build a career by learning the business from the bottom up. I quickly became intrigued with helping people put on successful meetings.

What motivates you to excel in the workplace? Besides the fact that I have a beautiful wife and daughter to provide for, I believe in myself and I always want to be #1 period. I am self-motivated and although there isn’t one quote or phrase

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that I live by, I try to always challenge myself by referencing something new periodically.

In Retrospect is there anything that you would change in your career? I’m not sure that there is. Working for Harris Rosen and Rosen Hotels has afforded me more experience and growth over the last sixteen years than most people in our industry get in a lifetime. I have seen it all from branding changes, pre-opening sales, job advancements, synergy sales efforts, renovations, expansions and more importantly, inclusion in community involvement.

Most influential book: The Bible Favorite Sports Team: Dallas Cowboys & UCF Knights Football Favorite Movie: Color Purple, Life & Harlem Knights Family Life: I love spending time and traveling with my girtls, Erica Johnson (wife) & Kyndall Johnson (daughter) Hobbies: Golf, Photography, Fishing & Traveling

CLAUDE LAGUERRA JR.

Travers Johnson

CLAUDE LAGUERRA JR.

Karl Pearson

Title: VP Field Marketing Company: TD Bank, America’s Most Convenient Bank Job Description: Promote and Safeguard the TD Brand via strategic marketing programs, campaigns and sponsorships What led you to your field of expertise? Macro and Micro economics have always been a love of mine – I suppose the internal desire to assist in the local economy through sales and marketing led me to my field of expertise.

Most significant accomplishment: My Children, Kaitlyn, 7 and Kai, 5 What motivates you to excel in the workplace? The belief in the notion that nothing – product, person or process is perfect and my desire to reach that level…striving to be better even when you may be on top.

Biggest obstacle you’ve faced in your career: Corporate level ability to embrace Diversity in Leadership. TD Bank, however, understands that hiring those individuals who mirror the customers and prospects in the market in which they serve is a part of a solid business plan.

In Retrospect, Is there anything you would change in your career? No.

Goal yet to be achieved: CMO of Global Organization Best way to keep a competitive edge: Become an incessant, eternal learner — continuation of learning new ways to innovate, excel, build and grow will help you to grow in a increasingly complex competitive landscape.

Business philosophy: Those who can do and who are empowered to do, should do.

Words I live by: “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” –Maya Angelou Best decision: Joining the TD Bank Team Most important lessons you’ve learned: I try to listen more than I speak… you won’t be able to apply and embrace new ideas if you don’t hear them.

Why you chose this profession: Marketing allows me to directly contribute to the bottom line of the organization via direct enablement of the sales team. TD Bank Marketing efforts also has a component of giving back to the community through sponsorships and grants which is quite rewarding.

Favorite sports team: FL Gators: Bleed Orange and Blue

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Name of Company: Rubix Agency & Aquiline Group Position with Company: The President of both entities Professional Background: Business Development, Marketing, Management Professional Affiliations: Orlando Economic Development; CEO Roundtable, AIGA, AdAge, IXDA…(Partial Listing) Quote you live by: “The Word of God will NEVER come back void…it will achieve the purpose for which God sent it.” Isaiah 55:11 Business philosophy: Take ownership, Provide sensational service and Deliver World Class Solutions Best way to keep a competitive edge: Never lose momentum, regardless of the environment that may surround you at the moment.

What motivates you: The thought of when my day comes, that I will hear “Job well done son, I’m well pleased” Goal yet to be achieved: Domestic and International Influence with the countries’ senior leadership Greatest obstacle you face in your career right now: Pacing my company’s aggressive growth while ensuring its sustainability, ease of scalability and margins.

Judgment calls: Starting my businesses amidst one of the deepest recessions in US history. I figured if my brands can succeed during a depression, I will thrive abundantly once the dust settles earning my clients and partners confidence.

Biggest obstacle in your field: Moore’s Law…technology is constantly reinventing itself.

Best decision: To become an entrepreneur Worst decision: I use to look to people for the validation of who I was.

Mentor: Bishop TD Jakes is my mentor Most important lessons you’ve learned: Never let the highs get too high, nor the lows too low. Momentum is key.

Why you chose this profession: Because its what I love to do. Do what you love and then find ways to be paid for what you do.

What makes you most neurotic: Mediocrity I wish more people would take more notice of: Their potential and the endless opportunities that exist right in front of them The most surprising thing that happened to me: Got married, LOL. But she stole my heart A common misperception of me is: I’ve been told by friends how surprised people are when they learn how humorous I am after they’ve gotten to know me I’m good at: Business Strategy, Marketing and Public Speaking I’m very bad at: Slowing down to take a breather every so often Award/honor you’re most proud of: Acceptance into Harvard Business School Personal cause: Empowerment of individuals, organizations, communities, regions and ultimately nations Most influential book: Bible Favorite sports team: LA Lakers Favorite movie: Gladiator Family Life: Wife (Tekoa Pouerie) and son (Maximus Pouerie – Born Dec. 18th, 2012)

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CLAUDE LAGUERRA JR.

Dio Pouerie

CLAUDE LAGUERRA JR.

Timothy Green

Name of Companies: Jeg Go Green Homes, Foreclosure Mitigation Team, Jeg Realty and Investment, Jeg and Wright Holdings, Jeg Property Management Co. Position with Companies: Chief Executive Officer Professional Background: My professional background was a series of learning experiences. I am thankful that I overcame many hardships and unfavorable situations in my life prior to starting my businesses.

Business philosophy: Always provide a world class customer service experience for my clients. I have found that when you put the client and their needs first, your company is ultimately stronger in the end.

Best way to keep a competitive edge: By consistently creating innovative ways to do business in my industry. It is important to stay on the cusp and abreast of changes within my industry.

What motivates you: Every day opportunities and the power to provide a stable and sound future for my family and to leave a legacy that lives on beyond my years. I will look back one day and be proud because I have help thousands and thousands of families around the Nation.

Goal yet to be achieved: To expand my company and provide the services we offer throughout the nation. (We are almost there) Through GOD I trust!

Greatest obstacle you face in your career right now: Navigating consistently through ever changing governmental regulations that limit our ability to help homeowners. I love this obstacle because when I do overcome it, it will be history on a national level!

Words I live by: If you help enough people get what they want and need, then you can ultimately have what you want and need. Always be a blessing to others!

When better is possible, good won’t do.

Best Decision: Giving my life to GOD and trusting that he will always sustain me.

Worst decision: I don’t consider it my worst decision, because I truly love my daughter Kaley (whom I have full custody of), but I would have preferred to have been married before having children so that she could grow up in a two family household, which I myself never experienced. I’m on the search for a great partner and wife so this too shall pass.

Most important lessons you’ve learned: Never give up on your dream, never loss your faith, and you must always trust that GOD will supply all your needs.

And keep going hard. If you keep pushing something has to fall.

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Name of Company: The Experience Christian Center Position with Company: Senior Pastor/ Founder and CEO Professional Background: License to minister 1998 Ordained 2009 Professional Affiliations: The Church of God in Christ, Inc., African American Council of Christian Clergy, Ministerial Alliance Against the Digital Divide, Changing Experience Quote you live by: Excuses only satisfy the person who is telling them.

Business philosophy: To be a Ministry that influences lives through God Experiences.

Best way to keep a competitive edge: My competition is never another church/ ministries. After all I believe we are stronger together. My edge comes from the competitive nature that I see that society presents as a challenge to the church. Paul teaches us that we are to always be ready to defend the faith.

What motivates you: What motivates me is seeing lives changed and impacted with the awareness of possibilities!

The word of God says in Matthew 19:26, “through God all things are possible.”

Goal yet to be achieved: My goal is to continue to grow this ministry. Some people fear the theory of growth for ministry in lure of the stigma of the MEGA church. However my desire is to grow this ministry in such a way that we are able to impact our city/ region in a powerful way.

Greatest obstacle you face in your career right now: The greatest obstacle I face in my career now is keeping the members focused on the future verses the now! Life presents challenges, and at times it can become difficult to stay motivated.

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Judgment calls: As a senior pastor, sometimes I have to make calls that aren’t popular. But I have to be focused on hear the voice of the Lord and following His directions.

Biggest obstacle in your field: Biggest obstacles in my field is me. Being patient enough to understand that timing is everything. The right vision at the wrong time will not work.

Best decision: Hands down my best decision ever was to step out in faith and start The Experience Christian Center.

After being consulted and advised in how to move forward and also being told that it wasn’t my time. I listened to the voice of the Lord and launched out on this journey! 3 years later, I still believe it was my best decision ever.

Worst decision: My worst decisions aren’t really bad decisions. I’ve learned that every decision still builds my character and destiny!

True confessions: Sometimes I want to run far away and forget about all of my responsibilities. There comes a time that even those who love what they do burn out. Relaxation is good for all professions.

Award/honor you’re most proud of: RYSE Magazine Community Service Award 2012, State President of Youth for the Church of God in Christ Western Florida Jurisdiction Mentor: My mentors are Bishop Willie J. Matheney (New Port Richey, FL) Pastor Larry C. Miles (Richmond, VA) Bishop Joseph W. Walker III (Nashville, TN) Bishop Allen Wiggins (Orlando, FL) Apostle Dannie Williams (Leesburg, FL) Bishop Julia Wade (Apopka, FL) Family Life: Married to Taja C. McRae three kids Brailon, Derrick II and Kayla Most important lessons you’ve learned: I’ve learned the importance of separating my feelings from my assignment.

COURTESY OF DERRICK MCRAE

Pastor Derrick L. McRae

CLAUDE LAGUERRA JR.

Nelson McCullough

Name of Company: Urban Planet Connect, LLC. and McCullough Blinds & More (dba) Budget Blinds of Lakeland (Franchise) Position with Company: President/ CEO Professional Background: Like most entrepreneurs, I like new opportunities and don’t like to sit still. I enjoy exploring new industries and building new and successful businesses.

Professional Affiliations: Chamber of Commerce of Lakeland, Better Business Bureau Quotes you live by: If you want know where your future will be, look at the people who surround you in the present.

Business philosophy: No matter how hard things get and what obstacles you face, you must continue to push through the struggle to succeed. When I launched my promotions company, my first couple of concerts didn’t do that well, but I kept going. Pretty soon, I was producing sold out events.

Best way to keep a competitive edge: Always research your industry and your field. Know your competition and their weaknesses, then deliver better on those areas. Maintain your character and integrity.

What motivates you: My family and the people that believe in me. I am always determined not to let them down.

Goal yet to be achieved: To produce and event sales out the Amway Center. I am currently working on one now that will help me realize this goal.

Greatest obstacle you face right now: The economy. My company Urban Planet Connect is built on entertainment. As people gain more confidence in the economy, they are more willing to spend money on luxuries like entertainment. The stronger the economy, the more disposable income they have to spend.

Best decision: Leaving my job as a Warehouse fork truck driver and never looking back.

Worst decision: Not pursuing my dream sooner Mentor: I always seek guidance from GOD Family Life: I am the father of 6 beautiful children; Nelson, Alexia, Nahla, Tasie, Najai and Jaden.

Most important lessons you’ve learned: To be more and trusting of people, and to have faith in them.

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TRAIL BLAZERS

Orlando Sentinel Editor in Chief Mark E. Russell

Extra Extra Read All About It STOP THE PRESS AS WE SPEND A MOMENT WITH ORLANDO SENTINEL’S EDITOR IN CHIEF In 2010, print-news manager Mark E. Russell was named editor of the Orlando Sentinel. Russell had been with the Sentinel since 2004 and was poised and ready to take over.

Recently this writer was privileged to catch up with the man himself.

When he became editor, Russell’s priorities were watchdog journalism and expanding the digital game. Clearly, strides have been made in those areas. In July, the Orlando Sentinel won 14 journalism awards including six first-place honors — in the annual competition of the Florida Society of News Editors. Though largely driven by digital counterparts, both weekday and Sunday circulation at the Orlando Sentinel have increased. “We’ve been a leader in the industry trend with newsrooms getting smaller over the last 12 months; especially with the FAMU {story} where the focus was on investigative reporting. It was a local story that hap58 RY SE MAGAZINE | M A RCH/ A P RIL 2013

pened right here in Orlando at the Rosen {Hotel} on I-Drive.

We broke the broader story regarding how a {marching} band with worldwide acclaim was taken over by the culture of hazing. We were the most aggressive newspaper in pursuing and investigating not only the incident but the entire hazing culture.”

Colleagues describe Russell as having high journalistic standards that include fairness, excellence, and accuracy.

“I know readers and users of our digital content look to the Sentinel as an aggressive watchdog that holds public officials and institutions accountable. That means we have to be rigorous in our reporting, providing background and context.

But we also know that we are sometimes not going to meet that high standard. And, when errors occur, we publish corrections to set the record straight.”

When asked what stories people will remember three

CLAUDE LAGUERRA JR.

BY SHARON FLETCHER JONES

decades from now, Russell cited Alexandra who is 18. “My wife is the national recession that pummy best friend; my rock; my bigmeled the economy, shaved gest supporter,” says Russell. “My home values and led to doublefamily would describe me as an digit unemployment in states involved father and husband who like Florida; the 2008 election of is always available and supportBarack Obama as the first Afriive of them, both by example and can-American U.S. president; the in offering advice on overcoming Arab spring and resulting fallout obstacles in life. They would say in the Middle East, with toppled that I’m sometimes too quick to presidential regimes from Yemen give too much advice but I’m also a to Egypt; and the explosion of all good listener,” he added. Mark, Jr. things digital — from the runwants to become a physical theraaway sales of the iPhone, iPad and pist. Russell says his daughter, Droid smart phones and tablets to who is autistic, has taught him the the rise of Facebook and Twitter importance and understanding. among the most impactful news “Patience and understanding, I’ve stories of our day. seen the results. I see them as my – Mark E. Russell It is widely known that Russell daughter gets better and better.” is golfer and asserts his all-time Having heard it from several best score for 18 holes is 92. When people many times over, Russell asked if mulligans are a mustoffers his best advice, “Life and the have, Russell responded with a quick “yes.” Not an avid pursuit of success is a marathon not a sprint. Don’t confuse golfer, I’m wondering if perhaps this is an indicator that his the two. You can’t win with a sprint because you’re building game is less than par. “Nobody says this is great. My goal is a body of work and you must pace yourself for the long run.” to break 90. I play mostly to let off steam; to enjoy the great He says, with little hesitation, that he might have been a car outdoors, not even to keep score,” said Russell. He added, designer if he had not entered the field of journalism. “I’ve “My perfect foursome would include: My father — Robert been a fan of cars for as long as I can remember. It probably Russell because I’d love to spend four additional hours with started during the muscle-car era in the ’70s, but I am also a the man who shaped the person I have become. He died in fan of older cars and I keep tabs on the new ones coming out. ’96, but his lessons and legacy live on through me. Frederick Alas, I’ve never been a car collector.” Mark Russell is also a Douglass because he was a newspaper publisher and civil- fan of Beyoncé’s musical genius as he calls it; her blending of rights leader who defines the word, “courage,” (myself) and hip hop and ballads but even more so of her husband. “I could Nelson Mandela because he kept his dignity through more listen to Jay Z’s Black Album every day and not get tired,” than two decades in a South African prison and then became he shared. His favorite old school tune is Earth, Wind & president of South Africa, an inspiration for people through- Fire’s ‘That’s the Way of the World’ “because just hearing it out the world. “ Russell is also somewhat of a history buff brings back memories.” I suspect there’s a good story behind and counts Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and W.E.B. Dubois, those memories. a renowned critical thinker, as his favorite historical figures Those of us who still truly enjoy getting our newspapers for having had the greatest influence on African Americans from our driveways (or bushes) and reading them over a latte and the world. will undoubtedly continue to do so. However, print edition Home to Russell is St. Louis, Missouri. When asked what numbers are going down. Russell says he’s going to step it up he loves best about his hometown, Russell didn’t need a min- and bring stories with increasing relevancy; stories that are ute to respond. “The people, they’re great! I’m glad I grew compelling and that are of particular interest to his subscribup there. I met my wife there. I grew up loving major league ers. “Every Friday and Saturday we’re covering high school baseball; loving the Cardinals (winners of 11 World Series) [sports]. We also post the top ten video highlights for those there.” He grew up on Holley Avenue — on the north side readers who access their information via mobile devises. We of St. Louis which he says equals the west side, Orlando, have to be pretty nimble — with features beyond the news in a working class neighborhood. Russell explained that — increasingly offering content across different venues. We people got to know each other on the playing fields more so now have Go, See, Do Orlando on ipad only, with bolder phothan in any other setting. “We had football, baseball, and tos. You can click on a button and see a movie trailer; pretty basketball teams where blocks played [other] blocks includ- much what our calendar is in print. It’s never-ending [the ing Parker, Afton, and Clark Streets” said Russell. Adding quest for the brightest, fastest, smartest way to bring conthat people have re-connected with him on Facebook remem- tent to our subscribers]. bering that they played football with him. He and his wife, What’s next for Mark E. Russell? “I don’t think too far Christine, have been married for twenty-five years. She ahead. Everything we’re in the middle of now is my next, “he is an interior designer and home fabricator. The Russell’s answered. “ My number one goal is audience-building, after have a son, Mark, Jr. who is 23 years old and a daughter, that, it’s gravy. I don’t get caught up.”

“Life and the pursuit of success is a marathon not a sprint. Don’t confuse the two. You can’t win with a sprint because you’re building a body of work and you must pace yourself for the long run.”

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SCEN SCENE ON THE

PHOTOS BY NANCY JO BROWN, 106FOTO

Women on the RYSE Honors Orlando Shakespeare Theater

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1. Guest entering the theatre for program 2. Retired Chief of the Police Val Demings delivering the keynote speech 3. Annetta Wilson, the first African American evening news anchor served as the Mistress of Ceremony 4. Women on the RYSE Honoree Monica May (Community Service Award) 5. Women on the RYSE Honoree Cheryl Lester (Corporate Executive Award) 6. Cover Ladies Cheryl Lester, Guenet GittensRoberts and Dr. Denise Mose 7. The Women on the RYSE Honors event Chairwoman, Zita Steglich-Ross

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RYSE Awards Bob Carr Performing Arts Centre

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1. Joe and his band performing live at the RYSE Awards 2. J. Jackson Sr. and RYSE Award recipients Ron Oats, Dr. Barbara Jenkins, Greg Francis, Derek Lewis & Derrick McRae (Doug Hollis not shown) 3. Cherrelle performing Saturday Love with an audience member 4. Monica May, the Mistress of Ceremony for the evening 5. The Center for Contemporary Dance performing the opening number 6. Landon and Stephanie Hale 7. Derek Lewis and the Executive team of Pepsi Beverage Company 8. Ty and Dawn DeLavallade

ON THE SCENE

RYSE One Year Anniversary Celebration Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts

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IT TA KE S A V I L L A G E

M

At Goodwill, Donations = Jobs

MANY PEOPLE KNOW GOOD-

will by its retail stores — as a place to donate unwanted items or to shop for bargains. What isn’t as widely understood, however, is that proceeds from those stores fund job training programs for people with barriers to employment.

“The perception that Goodwill is about old clothes is a challenge,” explains Bill Oakley, President and CEO of Goodwill Industries of Central Florida. “At our stores throughout Central Florida, we sell items families donate and use the revenue to fund our job training programs and communitybased services. At Goodwill, ‘Donations = Jobs.’ ” Goodwill generates opportunities for people to achieve economic stability and build strong families and vibrant communities by offering job training, employment placement services and other community-based programs for people who have a disability, lack education or job experience, or face employment challenges. At the organization’s Job Connection Centers, job seekers can research and pursue employment opportunities through a wide range of free services.

A Networking Center provides the latest job leads, as well as copy and fax equipment to apply for them. The

Bill Oakley

“The perception that Goodwill is about old clothes is a challenge.”

— Bill Oakley, President and CEO of Goodwill Industries of Central Florida.

Job Club offers interview skills training, job search advice and résumé writing assistance. The Community Resources Library provides a variety of information about local services and assistance with life changes. In addition, Goodwill also offers a “Hello Line” that enables

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those without phone service to receive calls from prospective employers.

Goodwill’s impact on Central Florida is especially important during the holiday season, when many people and businesses are considering charitable donations. For every 24 pounds of

donations (about two loads of laundry), Goodwill is able to connect one person to critical employment training and placement programs.

“There are many ways the community can support our mission, both during the holidays — and year-round,” adds Bill. “Encouraging children to donate toys before receiving new gifts, cleaning out closets, or even making a cash donation are all simple ways to help.”

In 2012, Goodwill provided vocational services to 25,500 Central Floridians and helped place nearly 5,000 of them with employers, enabling them to become more self-sufficient and better provide for themselves and their families. The work may seem daunting to some, but Bill’s belief in Goodwill and its mission keep him inspired about the possibilities and focused on the organization’s future.

“I’m continually moved by the people we serve. Many times they are in very difficult circumstances, and when I see what they’re able to achieve… it’s truly amazing,” says Bill. “And I wonder if I were in their shoes, if I could do the same. It’s both humbling and inspiring.”

For more information about Goodwill Industries of Central Florida, visit www. goodwillcfl.org.

CLAUDE LAGUERRA JR.

THE GOODWILL OFFERS JOB TRAINING PROGRAMS FOR PEOPLE WITH BARRIERS TO EMPLOYMENT

Continued from page 22 Constitutional Symptoms • Weight loss These symptoms are not specific to cancer, but if you notice one or more of them for more than two weeks, see your doctor.

Types of Prostate Cancer Adenocarcinomas: The overwhelming majority of prostate cancers are adenocarcinomas, which arises from the glandular component of the prostate.

Other rare forms of prostate cancer: • Ductal carcinoma • Mucinous carcinoma • Signet-ring cell carcinoma • Small cell carcinoma • Clear cell adenocarcinoma • Giant cell carcinoma These rare variants often act aggressively and may respond differently to therapy than the more common prostate adenocarcinoma.

Risk Factors Many factors may influence the development of prostate cancer, including: • Age: Men 50 or older are at a greater risk. Age is the most influential risk factor.

• Family History: Your risk is higher with a family history (especially father, brother, son) of prostate cancer.

• Race: African Americans have nearly twice the prostate cancer incidence of white men. It is less common

among Asian or American Indian men.

• Diet: A high-fat diet, particular animal fats, may increase your risk. Diets high in fruits and vegetables may decrease your risk.

Reducing Your Risk You can take action to reduce your risk of developing prostate cancer. MD Anderson – Orlando suggests: • Eating at least five servings of fruits and vegetables per day • Following recommended screening guidelines • Exercising regularly • Maintaining your ideal weight Screenings and Tests Cancer screenings are medical tests that are performed when a person has no symptoms. Prostate cancer screening should begin at age 50 for most men. Screening should begin at age 45 for African American men or men with a family history (father, brother, son) of prostate cancer. MD Anderson – Orlando recommends a three-pronged approach to prostate cancer screening.

• Digital Rectal Exam: The doctor inserts a lubricated, gloved finger into the rectum to feel if the prostate gland is enlarged.

• Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) Test: This is a simple blood test.

• Counseling: A man should understand the risks and benefits of prostate cancer screenings. Talk to your doctor to see if prostate screening is right for you.

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YO UTH O N T H E RY S E

Teen Dream Team TWO YOUNG TEEN BUSINESSMEN SHOW THAT AGE IS NOTHING BUT A NUMBER

Jordan Williams and business partner Brandon Iverson

I

IN A SOCIETY WHERE BLACK

men are often bashed for playing a lackluster or nonexistent role in their child’s life, two 14-year-old entrepreneurs attribute their success to their fathers.

With only six days separating the two in age, Jordan Williams and business partner Brandon Iverson live the expression ‘like father like son’. “We came together because we saw our dads create their own successful businesses, “explained Iverson. Their fathers worked together as financial advisors at the same network marketing company and immersed the two with insight on how to make money work for them.

Having active role models, Williams and Iverson were taught concepts of money, the importance of saving and were even included in business meetings.

Like most kids who possess an insatiable desire for toys, clothes and games, they grew tired of asking their parents for money. As a result, at the mind-blowing age of 10, they embarked on their first joint venture and created Kids Toys Inc. Utilizing the knowledge passed along from their fathers, they proudly earned extra money and could finally afford to buy what they wanted.

Success felt good for the two and motivated them to dig a little deeper and learn more about the wonders of money. Whether searching online, reading a magazine or participating in a webinar, they soaked up knowledge like a wild cherry flavored Capri Sun after an exhausting day at the playground.

Capitalizing off their prior success as preteens, Williams and Iverson developed

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Making Money for Teens at the Tom Joyner Family (MMFT). This financial ed- Reunion––jitters of public ucation company teaches speaking dissipated. “When teens about good money we speak, getting to see making habits, investing and how people really appreciate how to start your own busi- what we’re doing keeps us ness as a teenager. motivated,” Williams began.

“We created Making “I can tell we’re really makMoney For Teens so we ing an impact in their lives. can give teens information We’re actually doing somethey don’t usually learn in thing that is really benefischool systems,” Williams cial not for ourselves, but for explained. “We still don’t other teens future.” have business or entrepreneurship classes in school and that information is actually really valuable as we get older and enter adult life.”

The dynamics of MMFT is powered off each other’s strength.

Between Williams’ budding expertise in marketing and Iverson’s technological savviness, Jordan Williams and Brandon Iverson MMFT has continually delivering a presentation at the Tom Joyner Family Reunion in grown and prospered. A Central Florida. component of success for the two is the mutual respect and high-regard they share Remembering these prodifor another. “Brandon is good gies are only in the ninth at understanding things I grade, establishing a dissometimes don’t understand, ciplined schedule covering “Williamson proclaimed. extracurricular activities, Public speaking became homework, running a busian element of MMFT and ness and speaking engagea challenge for the boys to ments, makes the imporwork through. In the begin- tance of time management ning they questioned how an understatement. people would receive the “Running our business information they offered makes life more exciting and because of their age. “We fun,” said Williams. “While were nervous people would we’re running our business, look down on us and doubt we definitely are regular us because we’re teenagers,” 14-year-old kids. We play Iverson explained. basketball, we hangout with Sharing the stage with our friends and go to school Les Brown and Omarosa every day.”

COURTESY JORDAN WILLIAMS AND BRANDON IVERSON

BY ALICIA MITCHELL