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TRENDSETTERS TO TRENDSETTERS | JULY/AUGUST 2010

PUBLISHER’S AND EDITOR-IN-CHIEF’S NOTES

AVA SIMONE COLLIER EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

WILLIE STEWART PUBLISHER

FROM THE PUBLISHER

ello America! It has been three years since I left Columbus, Ohio to journey to Atlanta to launch Trendsetters to Trendsetters Media Group and although it has not been easy, it has been an amazing journey. There have been many components involved in being in business on a national level. The most important component is having ambition and the driving force to reach the destination. As the publisher, I have traveled all over the country from Los Angeles, Chicago, The Big Apple and to Miami and it’s been one AWESOME ride! Although I started this journey alone, I couldn’t have accomplished it without my family, awesome staff, business associates and old/new friends and definitely without YOU, the reading audience. In addition to Trendsetters to Trendsetters Magazine, stay tuned for Trendsetters to Trendsetters Latino Magazine, Urban Nights Magazine and the In Rhythm with Ava Collier TV Show. Thank you for allowing this journey to continue! ■

Georgia on my Mind

have recently relocated to Atlanta after 25 years in Florida. Until a couple of years ago, I’d never even visited Atlanta. After my first visit almost two years ago, I knew that my future was going to be in this vibrant and beautiful metropolis. The first time I visited Atlanta was in the fall. The tree leaves were ablaze with brilliant shades of red, orange, gold and green. It was breathtaking and I was reminded of my own hometown, especially Central Park in the autumn. I didn’t realize how much I missed the incredible visual beauty of the change of seasons. I am struck by the sight of homes that seem to be perched on hills everywhere. As I’ve driven around Atlanta, I have ventured down many streets that are winding and rhythmic. Florida is extremely flat in terrain so these hills feel and look like mountains to me. Atlanta is a copious mixture of a big, bustling city with all the splendor and southern charm that I have grown accustomed to. I’ll admit it, as a New York City native, I’m still a city girl at heart and I’m truly energized by the sounds of life and activity around me. I will miss the beautiful warm sandy beaches, the ever-present tropical palm trees that punctuate Florida and the golden sunsets that are worthy of a postcard. Florida winters are perhaps like no other in the country. I would often look at the weather reports and see many other states knee deep in snow or bitter cold temperatures and was thankful that our “Florida winters” were sultry by comparison. But we did have temperatures at times that allowed us to light a fireplace and even dig out a heavy coat occasionally. I also have a loving family and friends that I have left behind and will miss very much and I’m very happy for unlimited minutes on my cell phone. However, I am very excited about my new life here in a city that I’ve always wanted to live in. How blessed am I to be closer to the work that I absolutely love doing here at Trendsetters to Trendsetters Magazine where our headquarters are located! Whoever said that life begins at 50 knew exactly what they were talking about! Be wonderfully blessed! TRENDSETTERS TO TRENDSETTERS | JULY/AUGUST 2010

TRENDSETTERS TO TRENDSETTERS STAFF Willie Stewart / Canton, OH -Atlanta, GA CEO / PUBLISHER Ava Simone Collier / Atlanta, GA EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Stan L. Brown/Atlanta, GA OPERATIONS MANAGER Jeff Tharp/Atlanta, GA SALES MANAGER Derek Payne / Columbus, OH DPI Graphic Design CREATIVE ART DIRECTOR & WEB DESIGNER Lukeither Willingham / Atlanta, GA INTERNET MARKETING / WEB CONSULTANT Benita January / Lake Charles, LA Carla Daniels / Columbus, OH EDITORS Mark Hampton /Columbus, OH Mechelle Bowser / Atlanta, GA Theresa Johnson / Columbus, OH Dr. Leslie Ashlock / Atlanta, GA John E. Johnson / Canton, OH Gigi McCrary /Columbus, OH Camela Douglass / Dayton, OH Stacy Lattisaw / Washington, DC Richard Thompson / Akron, OH Jacques Miles / Ecuador, S. America Teri Miller Barker / Dayton, OH Corbin Cook / Atlanta, GA Lionel Locke / Augusta, GA Angela Thomas / Miami, FL Dr. Linda Amerson / Arlington, TX Barbara Campbell / San Antonio, TX Dr. Dorothy Flake / Houston, TX Tracy Hill-Ashley / Ft. Worth, TX CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Kandice Mathewis, Atlanta, GA INTERN

TRENDSETTERS TO TRENDSETTERS MEDIA GROUP RESERVES THE RIGHT TO PUBLISH ANY MATERIALS RECEIVED. WE APPRECIATE ALL MATERIAL, HOWEVER, SUBMISSIONS MUST BE OF A POSITIVE AND INFORMATIVE NATURE. PLEASE MAIL OR EMAIL ARTICLES TO WSTEWART@TRENDTOTRENDMAG.COM | TRENDSETTERS TO TRENDSETTERS MAGAZINE, 3007 PANOLA ROAD | SUITE 283C | LITHONIA, GA 30038 (404) 437-4311 OR 1-866-958-7363. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED, TRENDSETTERS TO TRENDSETTERS MEDIA GROUP

TRENDSETTERS TO TRENDSETTERS MAGAZINE

contents

JULY/AUGUST 2010

26 departments

03 18 22 24 31 32 33 40 41 44 45 46 43 44

Publishers Notes Up and Coming Trendsetters Educational Trends Commentary Business Trends Health Trends Global Trends Trendsetters On The Move Inspirational Trends Beauty and Fashion Trends Real Estate Trends Arts and Entertainment Trends Real Estate Trends Global Trends

special features 06 Atlanta Gospel Music Fest

14 Peacetree Film Festival 20 2010 Graduates 26 Mixing Love and Business

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06 5

Atlanta Gospel Music Fest Music & Healthcare Festival Dr. RIKI BROOKS Founder/Director

The Leading Lady In Rhythm with Ava Collier

ounder of the Leading Women’s Repertory Theatre, Dr. Riki Brooks says they produce theatrical productions; ninety percent of them are musicals. “We take women, young girls and boys, too, and train them in theatrical arts, acting, dance and voice. We provide them with theatrical experiences that they normally would not receive in a community setting.” She says her shows that are produced are originals, including their best known production, Satin Dolls. “Satin Dolls is a tribute to the ladies of the 1940’s. We chose that because we were able to utilize the talents and vocal abilities of many different women like Lena Horne, Dorothy Dandridge, Josephine Baker and Billie Holiday. We also got a chance to feature the music of Duke Ellington and Cab Calloway.” Dr. Riki explained that because of the direction that hip hop and R &B were taking, she knew that a change was needed. “I wanted to create an atmosphere for girls to know what real art is. During a casting call, many of these girls came in sneakers because that is what hip hop calls for. So many of them never wore heels and didn’t do dresses and didn’t know how to walk in a gown.” With an impressive theatrical career which includes touring with such Broadway shows as Dreamgirls, Ain’t Misbehavin’, A Chorus Line and Li’l Shop of Horrors, Dr. Riki knows a thing or two about performing arts. Dr. Riki shared that her inner spirit moved her to conceive this idea because she felt that

TRENDSETTERS TO TRENDSETTERS | JULY/AUGUST 2010

many of the role models for young women left nothing to the imagination “I had the opportunity and privilege to star in many major Broadway plays. I’m a singer, dancer, choreographer and director and this has helped me to be very well rounded in all the aspects of performing arts. My role models were Gladys Knight, Diana Ross and Patti Labelle. There was so much class with these ladies.” Dr. Riki continues, “Today, by the time we’ve (women) hit the stage, we’ve already revealed every aspect of our bodies and sexuality and people have already formed a negative opinion about what we women are about. One of the things about LWRT is that we try to encourage women that we’re more than about our beauty. My goal is to make their dream my dream by giving them the ultimate experience.” This talented wife and mother is also the CEO, Producer and Founder of the Annual Atlanta GospelFest conference, which will be held this year on August 13-14th at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta, Georgia. “This is an annual event that began five years ago and has grown tremendously,” says Dr. Riki. “It’s open to the public and I encourage people to visit our itinerary and attend some of the workshops in the healthcare segment. You can get free healthcare screenings and consultations.” This year’s GospelFest includes renowned artists such as Dorinda Clark Cole, Darrell McFadden and the Disciples, Papa San and Phanatik, just to name a few. Also in

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attendance will be Judge Mablean and media personality, Rick Joyner among others. Dr. Riki shared that in addition to lots of prayers, she says that loving her work helps to keep her life in balance. “I love what I do. When you love what you do and believe in it, it makes a difference. I still go to the gym, walk around the lake with my dog and I’m up every morning at 5 a.m. I have a husband and two kids. I’m very active in my church.” Dr. Riki offered some words of inspiration to others searching for their purpose in life. “Follow and believe in your dreams. A lot of times with artists, they’re following someone else’s dream. No dream is better than the other. My dream is right here and it’s

worth millions of dollars to me in my spirit and in my heart. The Atlanta GospelFest began in a small little hotel room and now it’s at the Georgia World Congress Center and next year we’re going to the Georgia Dome…that’s God! He already gives us dreams and they are always right here for us and we have to find them. When you find it, believe it!” To find out more about The Leading Women’s Repertory Theatre, email to: LWRT@aol.com For more information about the Atlanta GospelFest conference, visit: www.atlantagospelfest.com

The Healing Rose In Rhythm with Ava Collier

rammy Award winning gospel singer/songwriter, Dorinda Clark-Cole, is telling me about her latest CD, Take It Back, and what it means to her. “The Take it back CD is so close to my heart because of the trying times that the world is going through, a recession, but we don’t really acknowledge that because the saints know how to walk through this journey. The people of God in our communities are losing jobs and homes and loved one. God has a way of replacing things, even if you don’t want it back,” says Dorinda. She comes from a line of spirit filled believers with a legacy left by her mother, mass choir director, Mattie Moss Clark. Dorinda is also a member of the famous award winning gospel group, The Clark Sisters. She is also an evangelist and heads Harvest Time Ministry. Her gift of song is matched only by her anointed preaching, which she often does during concerts. Dorinda and I talked about how her faith in God has led her out of places of emotional darkness and into God’s plan for her life and her testimony of deliverance. Dorinda states that it was after her mother died and she’d been going through many personal trials and tribulations, she began to suffer from depression and not only contemplated suicide, but actually attempted it. “It was a very, very bad situation that I was dealing with,” she says. After feeling overwhelmed and hopeless, she got in her car one night and drove to the river. She’d planned to drive her car off a bridge. “Things got out of hand and one thing led to another. I was so depressed and didn’t know what was going to happen. My mom was gone and I missed her because she was always there when we needed to talk and help us through things.” Dorinda continues, “I was at a vulnerable point. The enemy was targeting my mind and told me that I didn’t have to go through this and I could just end it all. On my way to the bridge, I was driving fast. That’s when the Holy Spirit said to me not to allow everything that He’d invested in me to be taken away now.” Dorinda states that when God spoke to her, she immediately grabbed the steering wheel and turned around. “I said to God ‘Thank you for saving my life!’ If I hadn’t heard God’s voice, I would have been doomed and consumed today.” It was because of that dark moment, she says, that she wrote the song I’m Still Here Dorinda adds,” God is definitely a Deliverer and He gave me another chance to get it right.” Also known as the Rose of Gospel, Dorinda is also the host of her own show, Dorinda, which can be seen on Total Christian Television (TCT). I asked her why she’s called the Rose of Gospel. “I’m glad that title was given to me. It was given to me by my record company at the TRENDSETTERS TO TRENDSETTERS | JULY/AUGUST 2010

time. Every artist wants to give back to their fans in some way. My way of giving back was when I sing, it’s to encourage some people. I give out roses during my performances. I can’t give out roses to everybody, but there’s a reason why I give a rose to certain people. When I’m there singing, I can feel what they’re dealing with and what they’re going through. It’s an encouragement to keep on going.” She says that all of her CDs are color coded. “My first CD was red, my favorite color, so I passed out red roses. My second CD was pink, so I passed out pink ones. My newest CD is white.” Dorinda believes in the Bible scripture from Matthews 25:23. She shared that her

mother always instilled in her and her sisters to be grateful for the small things and to show appreciation. She says that being faithful over a few things will make you a ruler over much. She said that it’s manifested for her. “I have seen it in my own life. There are some things that God will trust us with, maybe not a lot at that time, but God watches us with what we call a little and He sees how we handle that. If He sees that He can trust us with what people give to us, no matter how small, He will trust us with the big stuff that He has for us.” ■

Judge Mablean

In Rhythm with Ava Collier

udge Mablean Ephraim was the presiding judge over the popular courtroom series, Divorce Court. She recently spoke with me and shared that she was often surprised by the antics and behavior of the litigants in her courtroom. “The people brought the humor to the show. It was in the way they told their stories about the relationships and the things that happened. Sometimes it was very sad and other times it was humorous.” She says that her time in Divorce Court opened her eyes to what was really going on and about the human psyche. She admits that she didn’t know the extents that people will go to just to be in a relationship. She shared an instance of a husband who was determined to find out if his wife was cheating by following her around dressed as James Brown with a wig and sunglasses. “He was intent on catching 8

her,” she says. “While hiding in the attic and looking down onto the bed, he fell through the ceiling!” She laughs and says, “That was funny!” Judge Mablean says that not only did she enjoy her time on Divorce Court, but says she realized that she was not the ‘norm.’ She states that although she considers herself a very intelligent and well-read person, and having friends in all economic strata of life, she realized that she and many of her peers are not average. “I did not realize that I am above the ‘norm’. She continued by explaining, “I never considered myself to be that until I realized that there are so many Americans who seem to have no hope. They don’t have a life where they were taught principles, values and morals. There are so many of us out there who are not taught those things.” Judge Mablean says that the average person is living right at the poverty line or a little above it and she says it hurts her to realize this. “As rich as we are in this country in resources, we are not sharing that wealth. It’s only shared among a few. The average American is only a high school graduate and many are not even that and we have to do more! This country is too great for that.” This mother and grandmother admits that she learned about other ways of life and how honest, hardworking people who work in jobs that are not respected are just trying to support themselves as best as they know how. “We tend to think of strippers as those bad little whorish women out there. That’s not who they are! They are everyday women

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working on a job trying to earn enough money to survive; trying to earn money to meet the basic needs of life. There are some places in our country where that industry pays more money than any other industry for persons of limited education.” In addition to her non-profit foundation, The Judge Mablean Ephraim Foundation and penning her first book entitled Life Lesson’s from Judge Mablean, 52 Lessons for Weekly Living, she is the founder of the H.U.F Awards (Honoring Unsung Fathers), an annual event celebrating fathers. “As a family law attorney who represented many men in their divorce cases, I decided I was tired of hearing all the negatives about African American fathers and the stereotypes and images that black men are not good fathers, don’t pay child support or take care of their children.” She explains that many of these men were seeking custody of their children and those who weren’t were still good fathers. “I wanted to put a new spin on it and reverse some of the negative hype about dead beat dads.” When I asked Judge Mablean about her roles in two of Tyler Perry’s movies, she excitedly admitted that the fun she had was indescribable! “I had no acting skills, never taken an acting lesson in my life nor read a script or been in a movie. It was so much fun working with Tyler! The first movie I did was a little scary trying to read the script. The second one, Tyler said to me, ‘Just follow my lead. I’ll change the script in a minute! Just go with the flow!’ I said, ok, it’s on now! That was the green light for me because I can be me! I would love to do as much acting as I can. It would be nice if I took some acting classes but I think it’s better for me when it’s natural. My kids think I’m pretty funny.” ■ www.TRENDTOTRENDMAG.com

ATLANTA GOSPEL FEST MUSIC & HEALTHCARE FESTIVAL

Bernadette Morris

A True Trendsetter

ernadette Morris is the President/CEO of Sonshine Communications, a full service PR, marketing and advertising agency. Incorporated in 1993, the firm is one of the largest Black-owned PR agencies in America. Sonshine offers comprehensive services ranging from grassroots marketing and public relations to high tech marketing and analysis. Sonshine is federally certified and the recipient of the Multiple Service Award Schedule in Marketing and Media Services by the SBA. Sonshine is also a certified minority vendor with numerous state, county and city entities. The firm represents a cadre of clientele including federal and state government agencies, corporations and small businesses, non-profits, grassroots organizations and ministries nationwide. Bernadette is also founder of Black PR Wire and Black Digital Network, a premier news distribution company for Black media in the U.S. and the Caribbean which provides ON DEMAND video, audio and print news and information 24/7. BPRW has an extensive list of over 1,500 Black owned media executives, community leaders, organizations and journalists. The company’s strength is in its direct contact and relationships with minority media and affiliates nationwide. Black PR Wire delivers its clients’ press releases, video and audio releases, and electronic messages to key Black reporters, writers and influential grassroots, social and civic community leaders throughout the U.S. and the Caribbean. Services are available in English and Creole. Black PR Wire’s corporate partners include Business Wire and U.S. Asian Wire. Additionally, Bernadette is the founder of Women Grow Strong, Inc., a not-for-profit women and young adult support group that provides training, counseling, development and discipleship. WINGS helps to sow seeds of mercy, grace, provision and love into the hearts and souls of women seeking empowerment, self esteem and confidence. WINGS helps to build and sustain women’s contributions and goals in society through educational training, counseling and business development initiatives for teens and adults. Topics ranging from health and fitness to image and business etiquette are addressed through workshops/sessions. Bernadette holds a Master of Public Administration degree from Florida International University and a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and Communications from Stetson University and the University of North Florida. Prior to starting Sonshine, she served as Associate Dean/ Division Director of Public Affairs at Miami-Dade College. She has also enjoyed a successful career in broadcast journalism where she was a publicist for PBS/NPR and a producer of children’s programs. She resides in Miami, Florida. ■

MIAMI

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TRENDSETTERS TO TRENDSETTERS | JULY/AUGUST MAR / APR 2010 2010

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ATLANTA GOSPEL FEST MUSIC & HEALTHCARE FESTIVAL

Jackie Patillo

“VERITY GOSPEL MUSIC GROUP

ou’d be hard-pressed to locate a gospel industry insider who hasn’t heard the name Jackie Patillo. One of the most influential executives in the sacred music genre, Jackie Patillo presently facilitates such artists as Kirk Franklin, Donnie McClurkin, Byron Cage, Marvin Sapp , Donald Lawrence and countless others , using her skills to bridge the creative and the corporate. In her illustrious 25-year career, her collaborations have netted a nationally syndicated television show, 50 recordings, 45 cover shoots, 16 music videos, 22 compilations, 19 artist acquisitions and 9 international concert tours. Currently the Vice President of A&R and Artist Development with Verity Gospel Group, Patillo is known for her “Midas Touch” and has discovered and honed the talents of many of gospel’s most popular artists. Responsible for artist acquisition, product development and providing creative guidance, she shines in her role at Verity Gospel Group, a position she was hand-picked for by industry icon Max Siegel, and now reports to Verity Executive VP and GM Jazzy Jordan. Her path in the Christian music industry started as the wife of well-known artist Leon Patillo, former vocalist for GRAMMY Award winner Santana. Tapped as his artist manager and concert producer, Jackie got her feet wet in the industry and launched his Christian music career which ultimately placed him as one of Christian music’s top five selling artists. After her time at Leon Patillo Concerts, Inc., Jackie became Vice President at one of the top labels of the 80’s and 90’s. “Three months after I arrived in Nashville, I was working at Star Song Records,” says Patillo. “There I started as an administrator and set out to prove myself in the corporate world”. Prove herself she did and launched the label’s gospel division

ultimately landing the position of Vice President of A&R. With an obvious gift for identifying new talent and picking future hits, she was influential over the careers of artists such as Phillips, Craig & Dean, one of today’s bright stars in Contemporary Christian music. Her calling as an artist developer continued with her role at Benson Music Group in the late 90s. Using her skills to make key decisions concerning artist signings, song and production choices to overseeing contractual obligations to shaping music videos further secured her place as a mover and shaker in the gospel music industry. In that position, as in other positions she held, she was responsible for all aspects of A&R and product development and synergizing the record label team on behalf of the artist. While there, she signed such ground-breaking artists as Natalie Grant and Russ Taff. She joined Integrity Media, the largest praise and worship label in the world, in 2000, running their gospel division, Integrity Gospel. Patillo was the crux behind such chart-topping artists as Israel & New Breed, Joe Pace, Alvin Slaughter, Lisa McClendon and Stephen Hurd. During her tenure at the label as General Manager, Integrity Gospel became a leader in gospel music. In May 2006, she continued to climb up the corporate ladder and moved to gospel music’s largest record company, Verity Gospel Music Group, a Sony/BMG label. Overseeing a staff that is responsible for the best-selling artists in gospel music, she’s been at the helm of recordings by Marvin Sapp (with gospel music’s chart breaking record “Never Would Have Made It”), Byron Cage, Dave Hollister, Shari Addison and the WOW Gospel and Gotta Have Gospel series, along with many others. With this position, Patillo has a firm footing as a force to be reckoned with in the music business. After so many years in the industry, Jackie’s passion hasn’t changed. “I love the creative process; I love great songs that inspire the church and I love helping creative people achieve their professional goals,” says Patillo. “I think my experience brings a broad overview to gospel music. When life dealt me a left turn with divorce, God told me to go to Nashville because He was going to continue to use me in Christian/Gospel music.” And God certainly did. ■ TRENDSETTERS TO TRENDSETTERS | JULY/AUGUST 2010

ATLANTA GOSPEL FEST MUSIC & HEALTHCARE FESTIVAL

Jessica Garrett Modkins Agency Founder. Music Executive. Tastemaker Connoisseur

s a General Manager for Arrow Records and Arrow Affiliates Music Group. Garrett Modkins oversees the daily operations and business projections for Marketing, Sales, Public Relations, Business Affairs, and Studio Recording. Under her leadership, Garrett Modkins has led the distribution deal merger with Universal Christian Music Group, the business development of Arrow Affiliates Music Group and a profit increase of over 300%. As an Agency Founder for an Entertainment Marketing & Promotions Company, Hip Rock Star is a trailblazing agency. Hip Rock Star creates innovative awareness campaigns, product launches and promotions for such Fortune 100 companies as Pepsi-Cola North America. Garrett Modkins brings to the table a wealth of knowledge in the radio and television industry as well as an extensive background in Entertainment Management, Marketing and Promotions. Garrett Modkins has consulted with companies from Procter & Gamble and Verizon Wireless to the Tom Joyner Foundation and the Magic Johnson Foundation. Prior to joining the staff at Arrow, Garrett Modkins worked for the Atlanta Mayor’s Office of Communications. She has worked as a News Director for WEDR 99 Jamz in Miami, Florida, as a news reporter for WNAA 90.1 in Greensboro, North Carolina as an on air personality for WFKZ 103.1 in Key Largo, Florida, WRBD 1470 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida and most recently at 97.1 Jamz in Atlanta, Georgia. She worked as a television news reporter for WAAP TV16 in Burlington, North Carolina. She was the host for television shows such as Straight At You, Court Awareness and Visual Rhythms as well as produced several television shows such as Miami Tonight and Flippin’ It. Garrett Modkins is a Miami native and received her Bachelors of Arts degree in Broadcast News Radio and Television from North Carolina A&T State University. She is a board member for the Atlanta Alumni Chapter for North Carolina A&T State University, member of The Recording Academy, Gospel Music Association, Screen Actors Guild, the Red Hat Society and is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated. ■

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Friday August 13th 4:00 pm Meet & Greet Georgia World Congress Center 4:30 pm Exhibits Open 5:00 pm Artist Showcasing 5:00 pm Media (Red Carpet) 6:00 pm Media (Red Carpet) 7:00 pm Media (Red Carpet) 6:30 pm Preshow Entertainment 6:00 pm Artist Round up (Green Room) All main stage artists must attend 8:00 pm Main Concert  Darell McFadden & The Disciples  Tim Rogers & The Fellas  Castro Coleman & Highly Favored  The Gospel Legends  Lisa Knowles & The Brown Singers Special Keynote George Stewart/President Gospel American Quartet Convention 10:00 pm Holy Hip / Winning Team Records & The Read Back Movement from Miami Beach 11:00 pm Artist Showcasing All stages 12 Midnight -1am Artist Showcasing Saturday August 14th 9:00 am Coffee Tea Meet & Greet

ATLANTA GOSPEL FEST MUSIC & HEALTHCARE

Welcome to the 5th Atlanta Gospelfest Music & Health Care Festival. On behalf of my staff and committees we welcome you to Atlanta and invite you to have a spirit-filled time in the name of our Lord & Savior.

9:30 am Exhibits/ Health Care festival Opens 10:00 am Church Finance Empowerment Workshop 10:00 am Media Marketing Panel Hosted by Sheilah Belle 10:00 am Quartet Roundtable hosted by Darell Luster - Malaco Records 11:00 am Women In Ministry Panel host tba 11:30 am Radio Panel / Retail w New Day Christian Distribution & Taseis Music group host tba 12:00 Noon Model Call Time Thomas Murphy Ballroom 12:30 – 1:30 pm Reception/Caribbean Reception/ Meet & Greet Invitation Only Noon – 2:00 pm Artist Showcasing Mix & Mingle Lobby Have Fun 1:00 pm Preshow Entertainment 2:00 pm Heal the World with Music & Ministry Lunch Time Concert featuring Oh Happy Day Fashions, Designer Patricia Goings/ Papa San 4:00 pm Artist Showcasing 3-4:30 pm Record Pool Listening Session get your music heard by top DJ’s across the country. 5-7:00 pm Black Tie Media Red Carpet/photo opt/ VIP 7:00 pm Black Tie VIP Reception 8:00 pm Awards Concert Honorary Dr. Dorinda Clark Cole 10:00 pm Holy Hip Hop Concert /Phanatik Artist showcasing all stages open until 1 am TRENDSETTERS TO TRENDSETTERS | JULY/AUGUST 2010

PEACHTREE VILLAGE INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL

In Rhythm with Ava Collier

alik Yoba brought his New York Undercover role to life as the street savvy detective J.C. Williams. He, along with his on screen partner, Ed Torres, played by fellow actor, Michael DeLorenzo, kept the streets of NYC safer each week by tracking down the bad guys. Their no-nonsense attitudes were blended with a fresh, hip and youthful appeal. More recently, this New York City native played the role of Gavin in Tyler Perry’s Why Did I Get Married and Why Did I Get Married, Too. I had the chance to talk with Malik about his role and other things going on with him. Ava: You know I’ve got to let you know that we were all shocked when Gavin’s character died in Why Did I Get Married, Too. It was so unexpected. What are your thoughts on that? What was your working relationship like with the other cast members? Malik: I thought it was a good role to play. I said to Tyler that any time you get to show that level of vulnerability, particularly with black men, which you don’t get to see on film often and I certainly haven’t seen that kind of vulnerability in a character, is a good thing. Working with Tyler makes it easy simply when he gives you a phone call asking if you’d like to do a movie. It doesn’t get better than that. It was a good experience working with the cast members; most cast members and I were friends long before this movie so it was like being with your old friends, going to camp. Janet and Sharon Leal were the only two I didn’t know prior. It was like going to work with your friends and it was a good

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experience. It’s inspiring. Ava: You’re a busy guy, Malik. I hear that you’re also a musician, an author and you have your own theatre. What else are you doing? Also, talk about New York Undercover and how popular it still is. Malik: I play the guitar. I will be in Antigua soon hosting something called Romance Weekend with Ginuwine and Faith Evans. I’m hosting two concerts and also performing. I’ve been touring and doing music. The music at times in my life has taken a back burner since my film career. New York Undercover has never been out of syndication and we still have fans around the world. My theatre company is located in NYC, a touring company. It’s designed to tour the country and the world. It’s about taking what I do to the people. We do original productions and I write, direct, produce and teach. I’m always connecting dots. In my spirit I’m really a business man, putting the puzzle pieces together. Ava: What pearls of wisdom do you live by and what would you share with others aspiring to navigate their way into acting or other pursuits? Malik: My father always talked about building your own generator so when they turn off the power, you’ll still have light. I’m not one who sits around and says I hope to find a job, instead I make it happen. While you’re waiting, keep creating! ■ www.TRENDTOTRENDMAG.com

PEACHTREE VILLAGE INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL

Terri Vaughn In Rhythm with Ava Collier

erri Vaughn laughed when I told her that I thought she played the role of a “bourgy snob” very well. “Well thank you very much,” she said in between her laughter. “I try my best and it was fun actually.” I was referring to Terri’s role as Brenda in Tyler Perry’s Daddy’s Little Girls, where she portrayed the stuck up and snobby friend to Gabriel Union’s character. We also remember Terri as Lovita Jenkins from The Steve Harvey Show. Lovita was Cedric The Entertainer’s sassy and spirited love interest. Terri currently co stars in Tyler Perry’s Meet The Browns as Renee, a hard working, fun loving sista’ who says exactly what’s on her mind. I asked her if she’s anything like Renee. “I’m not as rude as Renee but it’s fun getting to play someone who gets to be rude and says what she wants to anyone she wants. It’s like an alter ego. In real life I’m fun and silly and I can be loud and blunt at times but not a party girl, so that part is pushed.” There was nothing rude, blunt or “bourgy” about Terri when we talked. She was gracious and very jovial when she spoke about her love for her work and her fellow cast members on Meet the Browns. “It is so awesome. The temperament is set by the lead person on the show and David Mann is such a great leader, no stress, laid back and so funny! Its such a blessing to go to work. It’s a very loving, fun and powerfully spiritual set. We say a prayer before we start work every day as a family. The family that prays together stays together. It’s a blessing to be able to go to work and do that and I appreciate it.” I asked Terri what it’s like for her to work with the talented Tyler Perry. “He’s super creative and it seems like his brain is always working and like it’s never at rest! Because he’s so busy he isn’t always on set but he’s blessed to have someone he trusts like Roger Bobb to oversee the production of the show. When he is onset, you can just look in his eyes and see his brain at work. He’ll rewrite an entire scene on the spot.” Terri continued, “Tyler is so in touch and in tune with himself and God. He’s so connected and so sure about who he is and his place and purpose from God that he’s willing to throw it all out there and there’s no such thing as a mistake. Even if people think it’s not right, it’s not a mistake and he just keeps it moving and I love that about him.” This beautiful actress is also the wife of former NFL player, Koron Riley. She is the mother of two and is also the founder of the Take Wings Foundation, which provides adolescent girls between 13-18 living in public housing and foster

care in the greater San Francisco Bay area with the mentorship, life skills and leadership skills they need to succeed in life. Terri says these girls have been through some horrific situations and it’s so inspiring to see these girls thrive “I grew up in a rough neighborhood in San Francisco. A lot of my friends were into gangs, drugs and violence when I was a teenager. I lost friends to those things and a lot of girls were getting caught up with being with the wrong friends. I never got caught up into it even though I was friends with them. I always asked God why I didn’t. I always knew He had a purpose for me and I knew that when I did whatever I was going to do in my life, I wanted to go back to help other girls growing up in that same situation.” Terri offered some words of wisdom for aspiring actors. “Study your craft and take it seriously. If you’re going to be an actor, get up on stage and do it. What we do is so much more than the glamour and celebrity part of it. The big picture is that we’re supposed to teach, inspire, engage and challenge through our entertainment. If you’re pursuing it with that type of passion, you’ll be fulfilled.” ■

To learn more about Terri’s foundation, visit www.takewings.org TRENDSETTERS TO TRENDSETTERS | JULY/AUGUST 2010

PEACHTREE VILLAGE INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL

Quinton Aaron In Rhythm with Ava Collier

know I was being flown out to L.A to meet him. It felt like I hit the lottery and I’ve never actually played the lottery but I can imagine that is how it must feel when you win it. I felt like Will Smith in The Pursuit of Happyness when he finally got that job. No words could really express it. I’d lost my mom, I was almost homeless, no food, no transportation, no job and I had to take care of my brother with no electricity in the house. All of that happened and then I get the call saying I got the part. It turned everything around for me. Ava: In The Blind Side, you starred along side Sandra Bullock, a wonderful actress. Also, you had a role with the awesome Jill Scott in one of my favorite TV shows, Law and Order SVU. What were those experiences like for you?

wenty five year old Quinton Aaron stands at an impressive 6’8” tall. He told me that he, like the character he portrayed in The Blind Side, Michael Oher, was always the biggest kid in school. Quinton is a soft spoken and articulate young man with an endearingly humble personality. He is no doubt a rising star and told me that he is living his dream of being an actor. Born and raised in the Bronx in New York City, Quinton is talented and says he is who he is because of his loving mother, who died in 2008. Here Quinton shared a part of his story with me. Ava: Quinton, how did you get the role of Michael Oher in The Blind Side? Quinton: My mom actually got the role for me. She found it on line on a website. At the time, I had no representation and she was acting as my manager. She submitted my name and wrote a letter to the casting directors. They called me up and I auditioned for the role. I read for casting directors, Twinkie Byrd and Wendy McKenzie. They fell in love with me after the first audition and called the director and said, ‘Oh my god! We have Michael!” When I finished the audition, they were in tears. I left not knowing what to expect. I knew they wanted me but it was up to the director, John Lee Hancock. The director saw the audition and called me in a couple of days. The next thing I

TRENDSETTERS TO TRENDSETTERS | JULY/AUGUST 2010

Quinton: It was amazing working with Sandra. Coming to work everyday, her face was the first one I’d see in the makeup trailer. She’s always real cheerful and very friendly, no matter what time of morning. I’m not a morning person and I don’t drink coffee to wake me up. But when I saw Sandy, no matter how tired she was in the morning, she’d always say hi and ask me about my night and we’d talk. She’s a woman that I always loved and respected for years as an actress. I got to see her every morning and work with her…it was real cool. Jill Scott… wow! She’s an awesome singer and performer. She was literally one of my mom’s favorite singers. My mom knew all of her songs and she would play all of her music. It was crazy because on the set of SVU, the way Jill wore her hair in that episode, it was so similar to one of the hairstyles my mom wore and even some of Jill’s facial expressions were like my mom’s. Jill reminded me so much of her and then she played my mom in the show. It was awesome working with her. She was so nice, a real sweetheart. Ava: Quinton, what’s next for you and what do you do in your spare time? Quinton: I’m reading a couple of scripts right now and keeping busy. I don’t drink or club and have more fun at the bowling alley or pool hall. When I should be sleeping, I’m at the bowling alley. I‘ve been singing since I was four or five; I thought I was a little Michael Jackson. I never really wanted to shop for a record deal but would like to record if the opportunity ever came. ■

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TRENDSETTERS TO TRENDSETTERS | JULY/AUGUST 2010

UP & COMING TRENDSETTERS

A Nurse’s Shift In Rhythm with Ava Collier

TRENDSETTERS TO TRENDSETTERS | JULY/AUGUST 2010

anelle Leonard is a young 27 year old Registered Nurse. She is dispersing any myths about nursing. “It’s definitely not a glamorous job! You work your butt off. My whole day consists of decision making and judgment calls; what’s good for the patient and anticipating the outcome and consequences.” Janelle has been a Registered Nurse for two years and works at Orlando Regional Health Center in Orlando, Florida on the Cardiac Unit. “There is a lot of responsibility that comes with this job. Patient’s lives are in our hands and if we make a mistake, it could be detrimental. It’s more than wearing a stethoscope around your neck. When your patient condition is declining, you have to make patient assessments. It can be very stressful but it’s all about having the right attitude ahead of time.” As I sit across from this beautiful young woman with a warm and infectious smile, I decide that she looks too young to be a nurse. However, as I listen to her speak about her love for people and caring for the sick, I realize that many are called but few are chosen. Janelle is one of the chosen. “I work 12-hour days during my shift, sometimes a little longer. You never know what to expect. Every day is different. There’s always a dilemma and obstacles and communication is essential between patient/nurse, doctor/nurse and nurse/ patient family.” Janelle says, and I’m sure we’d all agree, that nurses are the backbone to the hospitals. She explains that many times the doctors only see the patients during their “rounds,” but the nurses are there with their patients for 12 hours, an integral part of patient care. She also states that doctors often turn to the nurses to get patient updates. “It’s a four patient to one nurse ratio on my floor. We have to be on point with what’s going on with our patients and in giving reports to the doctors. There isn’t a lot of room for error.” Janelle is now speaking about the experience she is gaining while actually practicing. “What we learned in the classroom is necessary. But it’s the on-the-job training that really teaches us; that’s where you get the big picture. You correlate the text book knowledge but when you get on that floor for the first time, you realize that www.TRENDTOTRENDMAG.com

Flames of Change By Our Youth

“My goal is to promote a positive change in the world. If that is not possible in my lifetime, I will have at least ignited the flame of change in someone else to continue where I leave off. I am doing nothing more than continuing the legacy my ancestors left for me.” These are the words of 16 year old Kailah Cameron.

hroughout her high school career, Kailah has made it incumbent upon herself to be a beacon of change amongst her peers. While most juniors in high school spend their time organizing parties and get-togethers, in 2009-2010 Kailah founded four non-profit organizations. The first organization, “Students Warming the Souls,” initiated clothing drives to provide warm garments for the homeless during the cold winter months. Her most recent organization, “Dissipate the Hate,” promotes tolerance of race, gender and religion through different forms of art. In the summer of 2010, a teen summit that was organized by Kailah and other students around the Houston area will take place and educate other students about safe sex, teen pregnancy, college and other issues facing their gen-

UP & COMING TRENDSETTERS

you know nothing!” She says it comes with good old fashion experience. “The real world isn’t in text books. The more experience I get, the more knowledge I acquire and I get more confident. There are more experienced nurses that I can go to for help and that is great. We work as a team and I learn in the process. I love what I do and I love taking care of my patients.” When I asked her what she feels is her biggest challenge when it comes to nursing, she had no trouble answering. “Many patients do not know what medications they’re on or what they’re taking it for. During the admissions process, we ask about medications that they’re on and many have no idea or why they’re taking it. I’m big on patient education regarding their medications. If they know what they’re on, they can become advocates for themselves. I would like to eventually get more involved in that as a nurse. Patients often say ‘I’m taking a little white pill.” Janelle closes her eyes and smiles at the thought and continues. “I think it’s because of the older population that I see on my floor, 70 years old being the median age, and many suffer from Alzheimer’s or dementia. However there is a large population that do not suffer from those diseases but they still just don’t know what meds they’re on.” Janelle’s beautiful brown eyes sparkled when I asked her what she’d offer to future nurses and what keeps her life on track. “It’s important to take care of yourself before you can take care of others, emotionally, physically and spiritually. It’s a highly stressful job and you can break down under pressure. Do things in your personal time that you enjoy. I love the ocean and go to the beach often. I feel emotionally healthy and happy and it makes me a better nurse. The number one thing for me is keeping God first! I pray about things before I get to work and ask Him to direct my steps, decisions and instincts. I bring God to work with me everyday and that makes it better for me.” ■

eration. Kailah has received a lot of her drive and ambition for tackling her endeavors through her participation on her high school’s debate team, which is second in the state of Texas. According to Kailah, “Speech and debate have deepened my confidence within myself and what I have the power to achieve.” Yet Kailah gives most credit for her drive and ambition to her loving mother, who has not only taught her the importance of education, but that any goal is tangible with hard work, perseverance and prayer. Along with speech and debate, she is also active in other clubs in her school such as Best Buddies, Student Council and the FFA. Kailah is entering her senior year of high school in the fall of 2010 and continues to build her organizations and bring more awareness towards these issues that plague our world today. ■

TRENDSETTERS TO TRENDSETTERS | JULY/AUGUST 2010

UP &COMING TRENDSETTERS

Chelsea Rian Foster

Rickey Wilson Jr.

Age: 17 Hometown: San Diego, CA High Tech High International Class of 2010 Chelsea will be attending University of Southern California in Los Angeles, CA - majoring in Business Management, with a focus on International Relations

Age: 18 Hometown: Fort Worth, TX High School: Southwest Christian School Attending College: New York University, Tish School of the Arts Major: Drama Career Goals: Actor, Film Writer, Producer

Tiffany Denise Newkirk Age: 17 Hometown: Arlington, Texas Graduate of MB Lamar High School Plans to attend Dallas Baptist University

Genevieve Keona Reanne Boykins Age: 18 Hometown: San Bernardino , CA Etiwanda High School in Rancho Cucamonga , CA Genevieve will attend the University of California, Berkeley, majoring in Architecture.

TRENDSETTERS TO TRENDSETTERS | JULY/AUGUST 2010

Rhayne Ashley Smitherman Age:18 Hometown: Columbus, Ohio High School: Westerville Central High School Rhayne will be attending Tusculum College in Greeneville, Tennessee on a Volleyball Scholarship. She plans to major in Psychology. www.TRENDTOTRENDMAG.com

Donald Flake, Jr.

Lecretia Grant

Hometown: Houston, Tx College Graduate: Wilberforce University, OH Degree: Business Management Currently employed: Financial Management Specialist at Wright Patterson Air Force Base and will be enrolling into Law School at Loyola Marymount with an ultimate dream of opening a law firm.

Age: 24 Hometown: Atlanta, GA Graduated from Georgia Southern University May 8, 2010. Degree: Bachelor of Science Graphic Communication Management Interested in Graphic Design as a profession.

Jade Auzenne Age: 22 Hometown: Metairie, La Degree: Bachelors in Business Administration (BBA) with concentrations in Finance and Marketing University: Emory University in Atlanta, GA

Michael Xavier Brown

Jarred Sneed

Age: 22 Hometown: Missouri City suburbs of Houston, Texas Graduated from: University of North Texas State University Graduation Day: Saturday, May 15, 2010 Degree: Bachelor of Arts in Radio, Television and Film Job: Seeking Employment Would be interested in Journalism as a career.

Age 22 Hometown: Mansfield, Texas Graduate of The University of Arkansas- Fayetteville, Arkansas Bachelors of Science in Business Accounting Major with an emphasis in International Business. Jarred has been accepted into the one year Masters of Accounting Program and will return in the fall to pursue that degree from UArk.

TRENDSETTERS TO TRENDSETTERS | JULY/AUGUST 2010

UP &COMING TRENDSETTERS

Trendsetters to Trendsetters Magazine recognizes these “Up and Coming Trendsetters” and the phenomenal achievement of graduation! On these pages, we salute some our nation’s finest students! Congratulations to all…

African American Family Life

EDUCATIONAL TRENDS

I come from a family of twelve eight boys and fours girls. We all grew up in the same house in the 1960’s. My mother and father worked tirelessly to provide for us. My father had two jobs and a legitimate hustle. My mother was a stay at home mom who, from time to time, did day’s work and would take my little brother and I with her (ask your parents what day’s work is if you’re under 35). I hated it! I hated seeing my mother clean houses and do their laundry, but I didn’t understand she was doing it for me. Historically African Americans were the role models of what family was all about. We were the poster children, if you will, for family. Today, however, we are losing the war on family. We all know the African American family is in big trouble so I’d like us to spend our time regaining a focus on family. After you read this article, give it to someone you know who really needs to read it. African American Family If you want a great family, first get a laser focus on your home. Nothing is more important than what happens in your home. In fact, every problem you’ll ever have will be felt most in your home. We chase too many things that don’t bless our homes and as a result, it leaves our homes stressed, stretched and struggling. The children feel it the most and it’s painful for them. Most of the negative behavior our kids exhibit in school is not because they are bad kids. It is because they are simply responding to what’s not happening for them at home. They’re struggling to cope.

Brothers Put everything you’ve got into being a great husband and father. Your life at your home is what makes you a real man! Your wife and children need you. Don’t settle for being a baby daddy and having baby mammas – you have to be a father! No more excuses - MAN UP!

Sisters I know we’ve let you down and I want to apologize for that. However, don’t take it out on your children. Guard their minds, their ears, and eyes. I know it’s hard for you but you can. Read to them and you can make sure they don’t hear the wrong music or see the wrong things. Don’t let the stress of your situation cause you to lose them later because you didn’t protect them earlier. God is on your side sister. Be strong, girlfriend, and stay focused on your home. ■ Mark S. Hampton President FTL Leadership Group www.ftlleadershipgroup.com 614-432-4097

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TRENDSETTERS TO TRENDSETTERS | JULY/AUGUST 2010

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Autism in Color In Rhythm with Ava Collier

“M

EDUCATIONAL TRENDS

y son was diagnosed with Autism at the age of two,” says Areva Martin, L.A. based attorney and author. “Although my husband and I are both attorneys, we found it difficult to access services and to navigate the various systems to get him the best care. That led me to adding a special education practice component to my law firm. We actually represent families with special needs children. It also caused me to form a non-profit organization called Special Needs Network. It services low income communities in South Los Angeles by providing information, resources and education to those communities.” Areva says that her journey with her son ultimately led her to pen her book entitled Journey to the Top. “I wish I’d had that book when my son was diagnosed with autism. It’s a roadmap for parents because it takes them from the beginning stages of what to expect after a diagnosis through what you can expect in terms of college, work and living independently as an adult.” This St. Louis, Missouri native explained that although there are unique challenges in the African American community when it comes to effectively dealing with autism, this disease is not race exclusive as many of us believe. “When my son was diagnosed with autism, I thought it was a white disorder. Every child you saw on television or talking about it was white. Our images are shaped by what we see in the media. However, that is so far from reality and truth. One of the things I’m so excited about in terms of the work that is now being done is that we are exposing our community and raising awareness that African American children are being diagnosed with this disorder at an alarmingly high rate.” Areva says that one pervasive challenge in the African American community in getting an initial diagnosis is having adequate access to healthcare. “It’s a very complex neurological disorder with no known cause or cure and can cost approximately 3.2 million dollars over the life of an individual with autism to care for them. Most of us do not have that kind of money,” says Areva. Autism Spectrum Disorder is a spectrum of psychological conditions characterized by widespread abnormalities of social interactions and communication, as well as severely restricted interests and highly repetitive behavior. Classical austism is among the most common in this spectrum and males are four times as likely

to have autism than females. She says it’s so important to get reliable information and to be aware of the warning signs and what resources are available. “There’s a lot of bad information out there about autism. The key is getting reliable information from qualified sources. You need to have folks who you can go to who you trust and know that they have your best interest at heart.” Areva adds, “One of the things that I’m happy about is that now you can turn on the television and see people like Tisha Campbell, Holly Robinson-Peete, Toni Braxton and D.L. Hughley talking about their children and their personal struggles with this disorder. I approach it both as a parent and a legal expert and advocate.” Areva says there’s still work to be done but at least now there is a dialouge. Areva Martin is a regular contributing legal expert on the Dr. Phil Show. She is the founding and managing partner of Martin & Martin, LLP law firm in Los Angeles, Ca. To find out more about Areva and her non-profit organization and to learn more about autism, visit specialneedsnetwork.net and also visit autism-society.org. ■

TRENDSETTERS TO TRENDSETTERS | JULY/AUGUST 2010

COLUMBUS, OH

What’s Good About Today By Georgeann (Gigi) McCrary

COMMENTARY

ll too often life circumstances surmount and become mountains in our minds. Once these problems become mountains in our minds, they then manifest as mountains in our lives. Worrying about bills, jobs, lack of financial resources, children and day to day responsibilities can wear you down. The climb up these mountains can be a struggle as well. Keep going and don’t faint because God has already worked things out. He is either in the process of moving that mountain out of the way or giving you the strength you need to climb. Lately, I too, have let some things begin to expand. I was giving them too much focus and power. Anxiety breeds more anxiety. Doubt brings about more doubt. When negativity is planted, then that’s what grows in your garden of life. I then thought about my own words H.O.P.E: Holding on with Optimism, Patience and Expectancy. Where was my optimism? Where was my expectancy? I had to get it back and fast. Before I went to bed, I talked with God about helping me refocus and make the adjustments I needed to make. And He did. The next morning I recognized what is good. What’s good about today is that I woke up with the sun shining through my window. The rays extended, radiating the warmth and magnitude of God’s love. I don’t often take the time to notice the sun. But today I chose to not focus on the darkness and negativity in my world. Today I chose to see the light of my world. What’s good about today is that I have children that I love and cherish. They are happy playing with their friends, riding their scooters and eating popsicles on a warm afternoon. They are oblivious to the household needs

TRENDSETTERS TO TRENDSETTERS | JULY/AUGUST 2010

or parent responsibilities, for they know that they are provided for. They reminded

“Anxiety breeds more anxiety. Doubt brings about more doubt.”

me that I am provided for. God has already made a way. Wh a t ’s good about today is that I was able to talk to my mother who provides guidance, wisdom, and love. She puts things in perspective in a way that only a mother can. She is honest and transparent. She is what’s good about today. What’s good about today is that I was free to attend church and praise and worship God without restraint. I could carry my Bible openly. I could clap my hands, sing uplifting songs and say Halleluiah uninhibited. What’s good about today is that I allowed myself to see the mountains of goodness in my life. And, although the circumstances did not change overnight, my point of focus did. Yes, there is something good about today and everyday if we chose to see it. ■

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The Cost of War By Richard M. Thompson

AKRON, OH

        

Built 84 new elementary schools Hired 12,478 elementary school teachers Provided 95,364 Head Start locations for children Provided 1,153,846 children with free school lunches Granted 34,904 four-year scholarships for university students Provided 163,525 people with health care Provided 423,529 children with health care Built homes for 6,482 families Retrofitted 1,274,336 homes with renewable energy

COMMENTARY

n June 1, 2010, the United States government reached a milestone by spending $1 trillion on the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. What have we gotten for our money? Our nation is not any safer than it was on 9/11. Over 6,000 service members have lost their lives, not to mention over 30,000 more that were wounded. Not factored into the $1 trillion according to Nobel Prize economist and Harvard Researcher, Joseph Stiglitz, are the cost for rehabilitation, benefit payments and other lifelong medical care that a majority of our service members will require upon returning from the wars. Other costs include paying interest on the national debt because of all the money to pay for the prosecution of the wars is borrowed and other added costs to the Pentagon budget and costs to replace the military equipment destroyed in the wars. The cost for one day in Iraq breaks down to $720 million, or $500,000 per minute. The cost of sending one soldier to Afghanistan is $3 million per year when these additional costs are added. Let’s pretend that the money was spent here at home. What could that money have been spent on? For $720 million our nation could have accomplished the following priorities:

It is time for the citizens of this nation to voice our opposition to this mismanagement of our financial resources to our political leaders. Jesus was a true political activist. He was murdered because He fought against those in political power who oppressed the people they ruled. To be a real citizen in our Republic is to ask questions. That time is now. Richard M. Thompson is a freelance writer who can be reached at thmpsnmic@gmail.com

TRENDSETTERS TO TRENDSETTERS | JULY/AUGUST 2010

COVER STORY - MIXING LOVE AND BUSINESS

In Rhythm with Ava Collier

avid and Tamela Mann are the stars of Tyler Perry’s sitcom, Meet the Browns. David plays the outrageous and outspoken, Mr. Brown and Tamela portrays his beautiful no-nonsense daughter, Cora. Married to each other in real life for 24 years with five adult children, this talented and devoted team is not only in love, but they really like each other! This was apparent to me as I listened to them speak about their relationship. I asked them both how and why it works for them. “Honestly, it was something that I prayed for in a spouse,” says Tamela. “I wanted somebody who was in the business with me so I wouldn’t have to explain spending so many hours away.” She continues, “We’ve enjoyed traveling the world together and it’s been a trip honestly, like a high.” Tamela says they have visited so many parts of the world together and met so many people. David jokingly

TRENDSETTERS TO TRENDSETTERS | JULY/AUGUST 2010

interjects, “We don’t just tolerate each other, we enjoy each other. When she sees me coming, I hope she doesn’t say ‘oh here he comes!’ When she goes to the store, we’ll talk to each about ten times before she gets back to the house.” Tamela says that it’s the small talk that people sometimes lose. “We wake up sometimes in the middle of the night and just start talking to each other.” This isn’t the first time that David and Tamela have worked together. Both hailing from Texas, Tamela and David met as teenagers and sang together with their childhood friend, gospel recording great, Kirk Franklin and later became a part of Kirk Franklin and The Family. He and Tamela agreed that singing with The Family was a wonderful experience. However, when it was over, they admit that they were unprepared and even afraid of what was next for them. David says they got their singing start with Kirk and The Family for nine to ten years. “It was a wonderful season for us and we hated for that season to come to an end. God had an elevation for us.” Tam-

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ela shares that although she knew it was God’s purpose for them to move on, she was still afraid. “I was fearful of the change, but God had something bigger and greater for us. “ David added, “However uncomfortable it was, God was making the situation better for us. It was a very uncomfortable time, but God turned it around and it worked out for our good.” David credits the accountability factor in helping to sustain and strengthen their marriage throughout the years. “The reason a lot of people get caught up in this business is because they don’t have someone to hold them accountable. We hold each other accountable and push each other to be better and to want more. That’s how we’ve accomplished every major thing in our lives together.” Tamela wanted to emphasize that they’re not perfect. “I do get mad at him, I’m not trying to paint a perfect picture and that our lives are always together. We get rattled and disagree with each, but we’ve learned to agree to disagree.” David, always being humorous, adds, “The big thing is not only do we love each other, I have a poodle but I’m not in love with the poodle! Tamela and I are in love with each other. We’re always trying to figure out what we can do to make that love fresh and to spice some things up.” Tamela agrees that after 24 years of marriage, you have to use your imagination to keep things interesting. “I try little things like wearing a new nighty...” Before Tamela could even finish the sentence, David eagerly interjected “Oh Yeah!! See, I wasn’t going to go there but since she bought it up!” Tamela and I are now laughing and then she says “See what I have to put up with!” She finally gets to finish her thought, “You want that fire to keep burning. I tell people often that my prayer to God is that He will keep the candle burning and the love for only David Mann. Keep the love in my heart and the spark in my eye for David only. I made my vows until death do us part.” She and David agreed that so many people do not hold true to their vows anymore. Tamela says so many have a spirit of “I quit” or “I give up!” David adds, “A lot of times, we don’t take our vows literally. We put stipulations on it, ‘death do us part ‘til the money runs short or until I’m upset with you.’ For us, the death due us part means we’ll go through anything and work through anything; during any and every thing.” Tamela is now speaking about the healing power of love. “Love will cover a multitude of faults. You don’t go out to do anything to hurt your spouse. Do unto others

as you want them to do to you. David and I are best friends,” she says. The Manns both agreed that separate time and individual interests help to keep them better for each other. “I like going to the beauty salon and getting a massage or my nails and feet done. I love arts and crafts and I love to cook!” Tamela admits that she is a big Lifetime Television fan, “I have to have my own TV to watch Lifetime and Hallmark movies.” David is making booing noises when she mentioned Lifetime, no doubt at the thought of “chick flicks.” I laugh and Tamela ignores him and continues, “I like to prop up on the couch with my throw cover and watch TV all day. I’ve realized over the years that I have to take care of me in order to take care of my family. I won’t have anybody outdoing me by doing for my family.” David, in full comical mode says with a wink, “Oh yeah! She makes herself better for me!” After we stopped laughing, David admitted that Tamela had to make him get a hobby. “I’m away from home so much until it’s hard getting me out of the house. I’m a homebody and I like being with my family. Tamela told me to get a hobby so I started collecting guns and learning how to shoot!” He says he also started learning how to fly remote control planes. Tamela interjected that he’s jumped into that with a gusto and has quite a collection. “Tyler Perry is also into flying remote planes and when he found out that Dave liked flying also, Tyler started sending him planes.” Tamela is also an amazing gospel songstress with powerful vocals that exude passion and belief. This is a woman who effortlessly sings from her heart and soul. Her latest CD, The Master Plan, is nominated for BET’s Best Gospel 2010. Tamela is excited and says she was unaware that she’d even been nominated at first. “Yes! I’m so excited about it. I was shocked. Before we even got word, someone called to congratulate me. I feel like my true passion is singing; it’s what I love to do. It lifts me up to know I’m uplifting others in song. It’s an honor for people to purchase it and support us with the CD. It’s doing well and I really have fun doing it. It’s a blessing for me!” To find out more about David and Tamela, visit www. Tillymannmusic.com ■ TRENDSETTERS TO TRENDSETTERS | JULY/AUGUST 2010

In Rhythm with Ava Collier

MIXING LOVE AND BUSINESS

The Laws of Love

ewel Scott is an attorney at Scott & Turner Law Group in Atlanta, Ga. She is also running for Clayton County Commissioner in District 4. Her husband, Lee Scott, is a successful businessman and entrepreneur. They are the parents of two sons, ages 19 and 24. A Jamaican native, Jewel, says she was in law school in Jamaica and on vacation in Montego Bay when she first met her husband. New York City native, Lee, says that she was beautiful and he was instantly attracted to her. “We met on the beach,” Lee says, “Jewel was very attractive and I asked her out on a date for dinner that evening. She wouldn’t go without her girlfriend and her girlfriend’s baby. I took everyone out!” Jewel says that Jamaicans are very warm people, although a little suspicious of foreigners. “I was a little leery, but I thought he was a nice person and he was a gentleman. He was from New York and I was about to finish law school. He said if I ever needed a contact in NY or decided to come to the States, to please contact him.” Jewel says it was over a year later while practicing law in the Turks and Caicos Islands that she contacted Lee. “I didn’t think he’d remember me. He called me back and kept calling every day. He was relentless!” They were married in 1985 and recently celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary. Although born in Harlem, NY, Lee says his father was from Jamaica. He says while growing up, he visited Jamaica often and was accustomed to the culture. “I used to go once a year as a young adult. I was already hooked on Jamaica and the possibility of marrying a Jamaican woman,” says Lee. Jewel shared that Lee was very persuasive and persistent and would make long distance calls everyday from NY to Turks and Caicos to talk to her. “We had a long distance relationship. He is a man of his word and has character and integrity. He is exemplary as a husband and father and he never takes shortcuts.” “Jewel is a very strong minded person. She is a

TRENDSETTERS TO TRENDSETTERS | JULY/AUGUST 2010

CLAYTON COUNTY, GA little stubborn, confident and she will get her own way.” Lee continued, “In Jewell, I saw someone who is smart, intelligent and not a pushover and she knows her own mind. I was looking for someone like her to be the mother of my children.” “Both of us love the Lord. I was very attracted to Jewel not only for her looks and intelligence,” Lee shared. “She also had a personal relationship with the Lord and her dad was a minister. I wanted to know more about that and wanted to live that type of life and I wanted my children to live that life. It was clear from the start that the Lord would be the center of our lives. I feel the grace of God everyday.” I asked them what they do for each other and just for themselves to keep their love renewed and fresh. “The most important thing I do for my husband, my kids, and others that I interact with daily is have early morning quiet time with the Lord,” says Jewel. “I ask Him to recharge and direct me. I read His word and ask for strength. Apart from the love of my husband, the love of the Lord keeps me going and gives me that passion for serving people. I turn to God’s word and ask for direction and strength; that’s how I recharge.” Lee says, “Although Jewel has her private devotional time with the Lord, we end up praying together at least once a day about everything. We bind up the situations and the things that we’re concerned about and place it in the Lord’s hands and ask Him to let things go according to His will.” Jewel says they sit under the ministry of Creflo Dollar and this has empowered them to do what they need. “As a family law attorney, I say to couples to work on their marriage and don’t give up so quickly. The more years that Lee and I have spent together, the better our marriage is. We love each other and enjoy being together. Our kids have a model to try to pattern their lives after and I’m thankful to God for that.” ■

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In Rhythm with Ava Collier

ORLANDO, FL

MIXING LOVE AND BUSINESS

wonderfully warm breeze caressed my face as I sat across from Dr. Curtis Wagner and his lovely wife of 20 years, Kristin. They graciously invited me to join them for lunch at The Tap Room at Dubsdread Restaurant in Orlando, Fl. The food was wonderful and the view outside from the patio of the lush green golf course was tranquil. Dr. Wagner, a successful podiatrist with his own practice at the Foot and Ankle Associates of Florida, left his office to meet up with his wife and myself at the restaurant. Kristin Wagner, a registered nurse, is tall and graceful and sits quietly next to her husband now as he speaks. I first met the Wagners when I worked at Orange County Medical Clinic and they came once a month to voluntarily provide medical care to our homeless and indigent patients. As a nurse, Kristin assisted Dr. Wagner in patient care and they worked beautifully as a team, side by side. Still dressed in his scrubs, he is speaking about his practice. “I’ve been in practice for about 24 years now. There are seven of us in the group and I have been volunteering at Orange County Clinic for about 12 years.” I asked them both about how important it is to maintain balance and friendship in their marriage. I also asked how vital pursuing individual interests apart from each other is. Although Kristin does not work with her husband in his practice, she stated that it is important to still have interests that help to make her a better woman, wife and mother. “I guess the biggest thing for me is exercise. I take classes at the “Y” and take yoga. I do drag him with me every now and then. I also do a lot of volunteer work and substitute teaching at a preschool and religious education at our church. It gives you something to talk about when you come back together.” Dr. Wagner agreed. “It’s very important. You have to find that balance and spend time together making those times count. But you also have to have an individual life that make you grow and do things that make you feel accomplished and also I think you’re able to give that much more to your spouse when you’re together. It’s a balance of sharing and individuality.” Dr. Wagner says he also enjoys exercising and swimming. “We have our times where at least twice a year we have a day or two that I’m just with my friends or she’s just with her friends. It’s important because it re-bonds relationships that were important from college. All of that together makes you grow as a person and appreciate the things you share together.” Dr. Wagner referred to a passage in best selling author Steven Covey’s book, 7 Habits of Highly Effective People.

“ ‘Sharpen the saw.’ Everyday the lawn cutter has to sharpen their saw to get the job done. It may get repetitive, but it’s important. Everyday you go home and do the stuff it takes to make things work. When I get off from work, I’m tired after a long day. But my kids, for them, I’m just getting home for the first time. I give my energy to them when I get home even though I’m tired because that’s all they’re seeing. This applies to spouses too. We all get tired and frustrated but you have to put effort into it every day.” I asked them how important a sense of humor is in a relationship. They both looked at each other and started laughing. Kristin quickly adds, “I have three children, him being my third,” she says as she tilts her head in his direction. Dr. Wagner admits, “I’m a kid at heart. Everyday you want to have some fun so things don’t get mundane. Although Kristin is very organized and detailed oriented, she doesn’t take things to seriously and that helps to keep me balanced.” In addition to a sense of humor, time together and apart, the Wagners agreed that faith is also a necessary ingredient for a successful and lasting marriage. “Faith in God and following His teachings and commandments, to love your wife/husband and kids…it makes a difference.” A special thank you to Dr. and Mrs. Wagner. They have been trendsetters in my community for a long time, working quietly and diligently while providing necessary healthcare to the uninsured and underinsured citizens of Orlando, Florida. Thanks, Dr. Wagner, for being my personal physician and taking such good care of my feet and ankles over the years! ■

TRENDSETTERS TO TRENDSETTERS | JULY/AUGUST 2010

For Better or Worse: Staying Put In Rhythm with Ava Collier

MIXING LOVE AND BUSINESS

lfredo Hernandez thing. No matter how many and Elba Cubas are times she motivated me, I washusband and wife n’t ready. The birth of my son, and are the owners Jonathan, finally motivated of Auto Fast Transmission and me,” says Alfredo. “It wasn’t Towing in Orlando, Florida. about what was convenient for Alfredo and Elba have been me anymore, but what was best ORLANDO, FL married for nine years and they for my son. I started thinking have a four year old son. This about what kind of legacy I husband and wife couple say could leave him.” that their lives are grounded in faith in God and that their Elba and Alfredo agreed that divorce is not an option beginnings were very humble. “The thing about us is that when things get challenging in their relationship. “In our we both love the Lord and want to serve Him, not only on lives, the word divorce is non existent. We see it as though Sunday but through every day activity. We started with we’re stuck with one another because we’ve made a pact nothing,” says Alfredo. “I was homeless and Elba came with God. It’s until death does us apart, not until I disagree from Peru with nothing and no way back and we had to trust with you,” say Alfredo. They talked about balancing their the Lord.” Elba adds, “God is the leader of our home. My work lives with their married lives. “When we get mad at husband and I love each other and choose to serve each work, we sometimes bring it home but we’re learning to do other out of love. The bottom line for Christianity is to love better. When we go home and she wants to talk about work, and serve each other. I don’t try to be what I want; I try to I say no ‘shop talk’ until tomorrow.” Alfredo admitted that be what God wants me to be.” sometimes he, too, brings his work home and says that it’s a Alfredo shared with me that he has been homeless at learning process for them both. “This process makes us a one time in his life. He and Elba agreed that they had nothbetter couple.” He and Elba agreed that at first this was ing more than big dreams when they met. “We put those hard because they both have leadership personalities and dreams together because God gave us the opportunity to tried to ‘muscle’ each other. Alfredo says they sought help love each other and is the center of our lives. We like each at their church, First Love, under the guidance of Pastor other,” says Elba. “I saw a hard worker in Alfredo. He Hector Guerrero. worked even on Sundays and that really mattered to me.” Alfredo warns that balancing love and business is not They have been in business for three years. Although Aleasy. “Beware,” he says. “It’s not workfree. You have to fredo has been a mechanic for ten years, he stated that it was really want to make it work. Trust the Lord because the ennot a natural transition into entrepreneurship. “There’s nothemy will cause imbalance if you listen to him. The best ing natural about it,” says Alfredo. “In my case, I resisted thing we’ve done is to stay together and trust the Lord and Elba many times. She always He’ll take us from one point to encouraged me to own my own another. It’s the Lord that gives business. I was working for us favor.” Elba says she’s someone else and doing pretty learned to be patient for God’s good. I said no way because I timing in all things, including didn’t want the responsibility of her husband’s decision to be an ownership and it was easier for entrepreneur. “We started off me.” Alfredo explained that small and God started to bless us even his wife couldn’t convince a lot. We choose to believe in or motivate him to pursue his Him always.” ■ own business. “Someone can never make someone do some-

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Sally Beauty Supply LLC began as one store in New Orleans in 1964. Today, it is the world’s largest retailer of professional beauty supplies. Sally Beauty Supply currently owns and operates more than 2,700 stores worldwide, including stores in every state of the continental United States, Puerto Rico, Canada, Mexico, Japan, Germany, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Belgium, France and Spain. A retailer , like Sally’s would be considCANTON, OH ered a grand slam even though they’re not a distribution company because they have a worldwide base straight to the end user or consumer. No matter what your product is, there is a major retailer or direct marketing company that could also get the job done just as well or even better than a major distribution company. Direct marketing companies like the Suarez Company would be high on the list for a start up organization whose products fit the bill. The products they primarily promote mostly all have to do with well being, which is a perfect fit for products within the health and beauty industry. Finding the right direct marketing company for your business is key. Do you have an idea and don’t know how to bring it to market? Then follow Trendsetters to Trendsetters Magazine each issue as John E. Johnson shows you the steps to take your product to market. GET IN THE GAME. INVENT YOUR IDEAS. 1-888-375-1022

TRENDSETTERS TO TRENDSETTERS | JULY/AUGUST 2010

BUSINESS TRENDS

n our last issue of GET IN THE GAME, we discussed the need for packaging and the role your packaging design engineer plays. Next, we will explore the importance of distribution and choosing the right distributor for your business, but before we get started, let’s settle in on the definition of distribution or distributing. Distribution, to put it simply, is a chain of intermediaries; each passing your product down the chain to the next organization before it finally reaches the consumer or end-user. This process is known as the 'distribution chain' or the 'channel.’ There are alternate channels of distribution. One is selling your product to the distributor who sells to the retailers. Another is to sell to retailers who sell to the end consumers. Others are known as merchant wholesale distributors; they buy products from the manufacturer, then move them from their warehouses to companies that either want to resell the products to end users or use them in their own operations. Last but not least are direct marketing companies, whose role is marketing and distribution through many smaller networks that are geared to get your product to the end user faster and cheaper. We all would like to hit a home run first time at bat, but getting on base keeps you in the game. Most major distributors like to see a track record, something like a credit score of your product before they take a chance on your product. That track record comes from retailers, merchant wholesale distributors or direct marketing companies that are selling your product. Every so often they take a chance on a new product they may think will do well. Usually these types of products they take chances on are modified or enhance preexisting hot sellers that are doing extremely well in the market place.

House Call with Dr. Layne In Rhythm with Ava Collier

HEALTH TRENDS

r. Edward A. Layne is the founder of My Preventive Health, LLC, (MPH), an Atlanta based company which promotes the use of preventive health as a primary method of maintaining your health and youthful energy. Dr. Layne is a Gastroenterologist and practices at the Westside Gastroenterology & Endoscopy Center in Austell, Georgia. This Barbados, West Indies native attended Harvard College and Tulane University School of Medicine and was the first black Gastroenterologist in Atlanta. Dr. Layne also serves as the Honorary Consul for Barbados in Atlanta since 1990. When asked about My Preventive Health, Dr. Layne explained that his ego was partly responsible for its inception. “About ten years ago I was seeing lots of patients. The patients loved me and I felt very good about myself and what I was doing. But I looked around and thought, what am I really doing? How many people am I really impacting? I had the opportunity and fortune to acquire a lot of knowledge and experience. How could I use this to make more of an impact in health?” He says he then took a look around at the health situation in this country and it was clear to him that there was a problem. “There was a real disconnect in the area of health. We are treating patients like automobiles. You get into an accident and then we take care of you. You can’t do that with human beings. It dawned on me that we had to look at things from a preventive point of view instead of getting all excited about treating illnesses. When you think about treating, it’s already a failure.” Dr. Layne says he and a classmate from Harvard decided to implement a system that could be used universally at any health care practice which could manage the care of a patients. “This is a system of healthcare that could be put into any doctor’s office. They can use that module and manage your health.” As an example, he jokingly used a hypothetical situation of a patient being accessed under My Preventive Health system. “Let’s say a patient came in and said to me, ‘Doc, I want to be young, healthy and sexy until I’m 110 years old,’ ” he laughs. “I would first need to find out where they are regarding their health. I would need to obtain a “fingerprint” of their health up to this point.” He further explained that this could involve a series of tests, standardized and not so standardized. This could include devices that would measure your functional age, not how old you, but how old your body is behaving. “I know you may be 40, but your body is behaving like it’s 50. What we would do is develop a program that would first discover anything that we find that is out of kilter.

We want to push your functional age back. We want you to be 50 and looking and feeling like you’re 30-35, not the other way around.” In addition, Dr. Layne says that avoiding or reversing the pitfalls of poor, long established eating habits is another major component of MPH. “We want you to avoid the challenges and traps that society has for you that can make you ill such as refined carbs, white rice, white flour, white sugar…those sorts of things.” I asked Dr. Layne what he would offer as a single piece of advice to improve our overall health and prevent many illnesses. “We want you to learn how to burn off extra fat and teach you how to supplement yourself. It is important to bring your percentage of body fat down to where it should be for your height. We now know that every extra pound of body fat that you have will shorten your life. The secret is grazing. What that means is that you really want to eat small, frequent meals all day. This should consist of complex carbs, things that nature made…fruits, vegetables and nuts. You can also have your protein (hormone free meats). Grazing is critical because it speeds up your metabolism and helps you burn off your fat. You have to take your Tupperware to work and take the good stuff with you instead of eating from the vending machines and snack on it all morning.” Dr. Layne explains that by the time most of us are 40 or 50 years old, the glands that digest the food are the same age. They are programmed literally to produce enzymes to manage your body weight. He says that by the time most people are 50, they’ve put on an average of 30, 40 or 50 pounds. “Understand that we’re overworking those glands and when you put all of those extra calories in the body, the body doesn’t know what to do with it and stores it as fat. You want to control the percentage of body fat. Prevention is the way to go. We are hoping to catch another generation and teach them how to maintain their health instead of treating disease.” ■

To learn more about MPH, visit www. mypreventivehealth.com 32

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Carmalitha Gumbs In Rhythm with Ava Collier

HEALTH TRENDS

armalitha L. Gumbs is the Marketing Support Sales Specialist for Humana MarketPOINT, an agency of Humana, Inc. in Atlanta, GA. MarketPOINT is a distribution channel of Humana which offers services directly from business to the consumer. In her current role, she is responsible for all the local marketing efforts to support the sales team. Carmalitha explained that it is Humana’s objective to build relationships within the community “It takes a lot of networking and business development to do this. We want people in the community to identify and recognize us so they can understand what we do,” says Carmalitha. Although Humana is well known as a healthcare insurance company, Carmalitha explained that Humana is now refocused on community outreach. Humana has always been synonymous with private health insurance often offered through commercial businesses, large and small. She explained that the company started off with nursing homes and eventually got into the insurance arena. “Our business motto is changing. We definitely focus on health insurance but are now moving to financial products.” She explained that Humana is still focused on health but now offers other products to help give the community a comprehensive portfolio. “We want to bring the message to the community that we can also help with everyday needs in life, such as financial planning in the event of an illness involving yourself or a loved one or if you have lost your job and have no coverage. We can help you prepare for the future.” Humana’s new focus can also be beneficial for parents who may not have or even thought about health and life insurance for their children. “We provide guidance, not pressure selling. We want to let people know what resources are available to them,” says Carmalitha. Humana is becoming very visible at community events and also offer home consultations. Although Humana is still in the business of offering commercial insurance to small businesses in the community, individuals can also purchase private health insurance called HumanaOne. They offer competitive rates to people 65 and under. “We used to be very focused on Medicare where we did a lot of business with seniors in the market. With the new healthcare reform we have to change our strategy. We also focus on overall products that will enhance their lives such as life insurance for adults and children, dental and vision plans and annuities. Before, we only focused on healthcare and these other services were not previously available as much.” Carmalitha says that although she loves her job and all that it entails, there are still challenges regarding ever changing governmental Medicare guidelines and healthcare reforms. Although up for the challenge, she states that Humana looks forward to getting specific guideline directives in the future to better serve the community. “I think that would make life easier; Things change daily. The reality is that it’s not that way now so we do the best we can. Our whole goal is to bring the message out to the community and let them know we are here and to see everyone covered with health insurance.” ■ To find out more about Humana and their services, visit www.humana.com TRENDSETTERS TO TRENDSETTERS | JULY/AUGUST 2010

“Everybody Can Do Something” By Camela L Douglass, M.S.ED

HEALTH AND FITNESS TRENDS

s a personal trainer and fitness instructor, people are constantly inquiring about what they should be doing to get healthy or how much exercise they should do to get into shape. After I give them my passionate spill and professional advice, they somehow (in the same conversation) talk themselves out of what they initially sought to do, do better to get better. It is interesting how people can find every excuse in the book as to why they can’t eat healthy or why they don’t exercise. I’ve heard everything from “Water makes me sick” to “My knees hurt every time I start exercising.” Therefore, nothing surprises me when it comes to hearing excuses as to why people won’t commit to bettering themselves. Unfortunately, the road to obesity and preventable illnesses is paved with good intentions. After hearing the last ridiculous excuse, I decided I will no longer listen to anymore “mo better blues.” I am tired of people wasting their time and mine when it comes to seeking to do better, yet choosing to do worse. I have sown my last good seed in fruitless ground, stroking egos and walking able-bodied adults through their excuse driven lifestyles. The Bible says, “The truth will make you free” and the truth is everybody can do something!

For example, I have a client who has survived three brain surgeries, a client who has endured a double hip replacement and a client who overcame a stroke. They never miss a beat in my Mosha (Moving and Shaking…) class. They do what they can do at their level and never complain about what they can’t do. Most times, they are working harder than anybody else in the class. At what point do you stop making excuses? I have a few suggestions as to how to make strides toward becoming a healthier you:  Stop making excuses.  Decide what you are going to do and do it.  Choose your own adventure; Determine how low or high of an impact you need to go to according to your abilities.  Accept the things you can’t change and change the things that you can.  Congratulate yourself for doing something.  Remember to keep it simple and enjoy the process—it’s your life! Camela L. Douglass, M.S. ED. Founder and CEO, Mo Better Me Studio in Trotwood, OH. Home of Mosha Fitness and powered by Mo2v8U Enterprises, LLC

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Do You Ever Notice Pimples On Your Scalp? By Dr. Linda Amerson

HEALTH AND FITNESS TRENDS

imples on the scalp are a bacterial folliculitis, Staphylococcus Aureus. There are two categories for the scalp: superficial and deep. Superficial is the most common form of folliculitis seen by a board certified Trichologist. It is seen as a tender or painless pustule that heals without scarring in most cases. There are some exceptions. I most commonly see the contributing cause from Traction Alopecia around the outer-perimeter of the scalp. Folliculitis starts when hair follicles are excessive tension, damaged by friction from clothing, occlusion or blockage of the follicle, physical injury, chemical irritation or infection. Favorite sites of involvement include the scalp, neck, trunk, buttocks, and extremities. There are other types of folliculitis: Deep Folliculitis: infection extends deep into the follicle. It affects either the entire follicle or the deeper portion of the follicle, with increased inflammation and erythma (redness), also furuncles and carbuncles are more pronounced, are painful and may permanent damage and scarring. Gram-Negative Folliculitis: A deep folliculitis that sometimes develops in people receiving long term antibiotic treatment for acne. Hot Tub Folliculitis: Often seen where spa sanitation is at fault. Examples include: contaminated whirlpools, hot tubs, water slides and physiotherapy pools. It is manifested within 6-72 hours after exposure. Fungal Folliculitis: Classified as tinea capitis (scalp), tinea barbae (beard), tinea corporis (trunk), tinea cruris (groin) and tinea pedis (feet). Tinea capitis or ringworm of the scalp involves: black dot, gray patch, favus and kerion. Viral Folliculitis: Caused by the herpes simple virus, and appears as clustered vesicles, (small circumscribed elevation of the skin containing serum), often progress to form pustular of ulcerated lesions, and eventually a crust. Parasitic Folliculitis: Small pathogens that burrow into the hair follicles to live there or lay their eggs. Mites such as Demodex folliculorum reveal eruptions of the scalp with or without pus. Seek the professional expertise of Dr. Amerson (817) 2658854, a board certified Trichologist, for an accurate microscopic evaluation of your scalp. www.hairandscalpessentials.com Home usage of my Therapeutic Essentials Product Line has proven to be very effective. For other extremities, contact a Dermatologist.

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Cutting Through the Red Tape In Rhythm with Ava Collier

rnice Llewellyn is a Registered Nurse and the owner of My Father’s House Dialysis Care Facility located in Canton, Ohio. I spoke with Arnice and her husband and Marketing Director, Eric, earlier this year about their new business. At that time, their plans were still coming together and moving forward. I recently had another opportunity to speak with Arnice to find out where they are now and what’s happening at My Father’s House Dialysis Care Facility. Ava:

Arnice, what’s going on with your dialysis fa cility?

Ava:

Please tell me why opening your dialysis facility is such a passion for you.

Arnice: We’re trying to save lives. I’m not opening a clothing resale shop or making candy from my grandma’s recipe. This is something that will save people’s lives and increase their quality of life. I’m educating about and preventing diabetes and hyper tension. We have a program to go into the com munities, parks, family reunions and churches, wherever we can reach out and educate about pre vention and maintenance. I know of four people that I could name who have died waiting to get on dialysis. They could have come to my facility and received treatment and lived. It is cruel and unnecessary. There are no other dialysis seats in this area. Cleveland is the closest place with available seating. There are four other units in Canton but no available seats. A new patient needing a four hour treatment would have to drive 60 miles to Cleveland or die like the last four patients. It’s horrendous.

Ava:

Why are so many people on dialysis and what can we do to prevent it?

Arnice: Some of the things that cause a lot of dialysis are diabetes, high blood pressure and obesity. If you are obese, even 20 pounds overweight, you lean towards hypertension and/or diabetes. When we gain weight around our organs, our belly and heart, it constricts our organs and they have to work harder, the vessels are smaller and your pressure goes up. Your vessels around your pancreas can’t function and blood sugar goes up. In turn, your nephrons in the kidneys can’t function and begin to die because blood can’t get to them and you end up on kidney dialysis. Fifty percent of it can be prevented and the other half is genetics. There is so much of it that can be prevented through weight control. Even Cookie Monster from Sesame Street has started eating healthier. This tells us that everyone recognizes the health crisis in this country. We need to eat to live and not live to eat. God tells us to treat our bodies as a temple. We should not take our temples for granted. To contact Arnice and Eric Llewellyn for partnership opportunities or more information, please call 330-309-2605 or email at mydialysis@yahoo.com

TRENDSETTERS TO TRENDSETTERS | JULY/AUGUST 2010

HEALTH AND FITNESS TRENDS

Arnice: We have recently acquired a partner and we’re very happy about that. We’re still looking for partnerships with someone who may be looking to invest in a medical facility. The major obsta cle for us has been getting soft/working capital, money to meet my payroll and pay the bills. O u r target date is to be opened on September 1, 2010. We are on track with this date. Banks say t h e y want to support small businesses but they make it difficult to get help. When the government said that they are releasing money for small businesses, many banks had to comply but they’ve decided to counter that by raising the required credit scores to 775 or above. How many people really have a credit score greater than 775? It’s a catch 22. I’ve had to attend classes, make presentations and then I’m told that my credit score is not high enough. The bureaucracy continues to be the an obstacle for me. However, our doors will be opened because God says so!

Shaky Ground By Jacques Miles ECUADOR, SOUTH AMERICA

GLOBAL TRENDS

was walking to my bedroom when all of a sudden I felt the ground moving. My clothes in my closet were swaying from side to side; a long crack rips up through the wall, causing my wife to scream in terror. As fast as it started it was over. In Ecuador these shaky times come normally when a volcano is erupting. I remember the first time I saw a volcano. I had only been in Ecuador for a few months. I remember going

outside and seeing the sky red and orange and thinking what a beautiful sunset, but then I realized it was four o’clock in the afternoon and this was not a sunset. I was observing my first volcanic eruption. I learned that volcanoes come in all shapes and sizes and there are over 30 volcanoes in Ecuador and, thankfully, not all of them are active. Chimborazo is the highest mountain and active volcano in Ecuador. Due to its position on the equator, it is the closest point on the earth's surface to the sun. Chimborazo is a monster of a volcano but this monster is not the volcano that makes many people live in fear. That monster’s name is Tungurahua. Tungurahua is a 16,478 foot volcano that has erupted many times since 1999. In August 2006 and February 2008, there were several major eruptions, which claimed many villages and human life as well. We traveled through ground zero, after the 2008 destruction. Parts of the roads were closed and on the side of the mountain we could see the trail that the lava left behind. I was shocked into the reality of the magnitude when I was told that the dark rock material I was standing on was cooled lava. It went on as far as the eye could see. Imagine this place just a short while ago; it must have been an awe inspiring sight. Many people lost everything they had. In 2008, when Tungurahua erupted, it shot lava and volcanic rock several miles into the air. Words can't describe the terror many villages faced when flaming rocks rained down from the sky, destroying their homes, livestock and even taking life. Ash and poison gas at times can reach over a hundred miles away from the eruption point. On May 30, 2010, Tungurahua once again flexed its volcanic muscles shooting ash and volcanic materials over three miles in the sky, causing many to flee from their homes. Ash reaching over a hundred miles away forced the closure of The Guayaquil Airport. “Everything is covered” is heard many times over as the inhabitants marvel at nature’s powerful hand. This time, thank goodness, I am here safe and sound in Augusta, Ga., far away from the ash, tremors and chaos. Even so, I know soon I will be back continuing with my work in Ecuador. I am sure I will have to come face to face again with Ecuador’s mighty volcanoes, but that’s just life in ‘The Middle of the World.’ JACQUES MILES jacqandraq@att.net

TRENDSETTERS TO TRENDSETTERS | JULY/AUGUST 2010

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A World-renowned Cultural Spectacular on August 21, 2010 in Atlanta. New York-based Shen Yun Performing Arts Graces the Stage at Cobb Energy Centre

fter touring over five continents, Shen Yun Performing Arts graces the stage at Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre with its world-renowned cultural Spectacular. Here's your chance to experience the world-class production that has left millions in awe. “The best! The best! The best!” said Charles Wadsworth, founding artistic director of the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center. “I probably have reviewed over three to four thousand shows which still cannot compare to what I saw tonight. I give this production Five Stars, that’s the top! The best word to use is ‘mind-blowing’!” said Richard Connema, seasoned critic for Talkin' Broadway. In 2009, Shen Yun performed over 320 shows in more than 100 cities, dazzling over 800,000 viewers of all ages, backgrounds, and ethnicities. Its productions graced the world’s most prestigious stages, from Radio City Music Hall in New York to Kennedy Center Opera House in Washington, D.C., from Royal Festival Hall in London to the National Arts Centre’s Southam Hall in Ottawa. Shen Yun has received phenomenal responses worldwide and is regarded as a miracle in the performing arts world.

"DIVINE SPLENDOR" Literally, Shen Yun means “divine” and “beauty.” China was once known as the “Land of the Divine.” Believing their culture to be a gift from heaven, the ancient Chinese emphasized virtues and devotion to spiritual request. This belief nourished traditional Chinese culture with profound inner meaning. Sadly, this great culture has been all but destroyed under decades of communist rule. Today, Shen Yun Performing Arts endeavors to revive traditional Chinese culture by recreating its sublime beauty while advancing to new horizons of excellence. Whether it’s the roar of thunderous drums from the era of the Yellow Emperor, or the elegance of silken sleeves adorned by ladies of the Tang Imperial Court, Shen Yun’s classical Chinese dances transport audiences back in time. Its ethnic and folk dances invite viewers to join the celebration, from stunning bursts of springtime blossoms, to the joy of the vibrant Tibetans on their mystical mountain homeland. Featuring a superb cast of a hundred of the world’s foremost classical artists in a fresh, new program every year, along with masterful choreography, breathtaking costumes, state-ofthe-art digital backdrops, and live orchestral music that brings together instruments spanning east and west, Shen Yun is truly not to be missed. ■

TRENDSETTERS TO TRENDSETTERS | JULY/AUGUST 2010

A Woman of Significance

In Rhythm with Ava Collier

TRENDSETTERS ON THE MOVE

CANTON, OH

yn amic Moti vation al S p e a k er , Personal Coach, Radio Host and Author, Delores Pressley, is without a doubt a woman who walks the walk. Delores is committed to empowering and inspiring audiences all over the country. Living a significant life, Delores is a former elementary school teacher who says, although she loved teaching, she was led to move out of her comfort zone and reach out to more people. “I am still a teacher. When I’m on stage in front of crowds of 5,000, I’m still teaching and calling people to action. I think what makes me a little different from other speakers is that when you leave after hearing me, you’re going to be propelled to act. I love to think big, but what’s really important to me is that you should execute big. People need to live their dream and make it happen, but it takes action!” While I listened to Delores, I could hear the passion and excitement in her voice as she spoke about motivation and tenacity. It was clear that this is a woman who is fulfilling her life’s purpose and enjoying the journey. She says the difference between people who are really successful and the ones who just dream about being successful is taking action. “I have an acronym called D.C.A.F. – Decide, Commit, Act and Follow through. I believe we have to make decisions and be committed to them and we have to 40

have action and then follow through. Your fortune is in your follow through,” she says. Among Delores’ long list of accomplishments, she also owned a modeling agency for plus-size women at one time. She told me that even that was born out of a desire to do what said couldn’t be done. “I always dreamed of being a ballerina and I was robbed of that dream when I was in kindergarten.” Delores continues, “They wouldn’t allow my mother to sign me up for that because they said I was too fat. Instead I was signed up for tap dance but it wasn’t what I wanted. I’m glad they did that to me when I was little because I became rebellious. I said that no one else would ever keep me from realizing my dream!” With no shortage of naysayers, she later pursued another desire to model and went on to own her own agency. Her models were featured among some of the best magazines and upscale retail stores in the industry, such as Essence Magazine, Glamour, Marie Claire and Saks Fifth Avenue, just to name a few. “As a speaker, I’ve shared the stage with such people as Les Brown, Sandra Day O’Connor, Zig Ziglar and Joan Lunden. I am from Canton, Ohio and those opportunities really aren’t open in Ohio. We have to create our own opportunities and we can do that. We control our destiny and we can make things happen in our lives.” Delores explained that she often works diligently in trying to get people to shift their belief system and to have con-

TRENDSETTERS TO TRENDSETTERS | JULY/AUGUST 2010

fidence and tenacity in their pursuits. “If we use the same belief system that we’ve used all of our lives, we’re going to have the exact same things that go on in our lives. The biggest challenge for me is getting people to believe that they can do what they want to do. People are afraid. Courage is doing what you’re afraid to do.” She now speaks about her A-List and how important it is to live significantly and successfully. “ASK for something that you want, then ACT on it and then show APPRECIATION. Let people know that you appreciate what they’re doing for you. The power of the A-List will help. People will appreciate that you appreciate them!” Delores says that you can be successful without being significant, but you can’t be significant without being a success. “Use your success to help someone else. We have to start living a legacy by making a difference in someone else’s life.” I asked Delores where she gets her inspiration and motivation from. “I believe in a higher power,” she said. “I believe in God and I get a lot of my strength from Him. I also know that we need to surround ourselves with positive, brilliant people and people who are smarter than us. We’re never too old to learn. It’s important to be around people who are supportive of our dreams.” To learn more about Delores Pressley or to book her for your next event, visit and www.del or es pre ssl e y.c om www.speaktogrow.com

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We’ve All Got A Lot of Work to Do By Angela M. Thomas

things or think or act alike. On the other hand, differences can be very beneficial and enriching. They can force us out of our comfort zones and cause us to stretch and grow. They can challenge us to be better than we have been, do more than we have done and pursue higher goals that we had previously set for our lives. It is when we allow hatred, anger, sin, resentment or bitterness to creep into our hearts, mind and soul, that we are in danger of destroying relationships and ourselves. What are your needs today? A hat of kindness, a wallet of patience, a wide belt of love, a pocket of peace or a pair of shoes with forgiveness and compassion? Or do you need the whole new wardrobe?

MIAMI, FL

Angela M. Thomas is a Certified Speaker and has written and published eight inspirational books. She has just released her new Audio CD titled “Let Me Love You.” To book Angela, please call (305)793-1347 or Visit: www.AngelaMThomas.com

TRENDSETTERS TO TRENDSETTERS | JULY/AUGUST 2010

INSPIRATIONAL TRENDS

e as Christians do have problems. We all have difficult people to deal with and sometimes the difficult person is ourselves. How do others see you? Are you complaining about how much you do for others and how little credit you get? Do you have a record of wrongs in your head about those who have hurt you and don’t deserve to be forgiven? Are you constantly downcast and knocking yourself in hope that others will boost your ego? The Bible tells us in Colossians 3:5 to “put to death” our old selves, to take off the old clothes and put on the new. What old clothes do you have to take off? When we buy new clothes, we don’t put them on over the old. We first take off the old and then put on the new. Sometimes in our Christian lives we often ignore this principle and try to jam a new life on top of our old habits. We must take off the old and put on the new clothes of love, forgiveness, patience, helpfulness, compassion, humility, kindness, and peace. Maybe you need some new clothes? Could you use some heartfelt kindness, some flowing gentleness, some genuine humility, unconditional love? I believe we all would look and feel better wearing a wide belt of love which would bind us together in perfect unity. Or perhaps we could all use a pocketful of peace placed over our harden hearts. Maybe we can all use a brand new pair of shoes filled with compassion and forgiveness of others. Certainly not all of us are alike, have the same style, enjoy the same

Oh, The Grace of God! By Stacy Lattisaw Jackson

INSPIRATIONAL TRENDS

WASHINGTON, DC

he challenges of life we often face at times can cause us to become weary and discouraged. But what we must always remember is that God never promised us a life free from trails and tribulations. He did promise us in His word that He would never leave us nor forsake us. The grace of God is an amazing gift that He freely gives us; it cannot be earned. When we look at 2 Corinthians 12: 7-9, it talks about Paul, who had a thorn in his flesh. “For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me. Paul continues, “…and He said unto me, ‘My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness.’ Most gladly, therefore, will I rather glory in my infirmities that the power of Christ may rest upon me.” God gave Paul the grace to endure. The grace of God sustains us in times of distress. During these times, we must look to God in earnest and sincere prayer. When we do this, we obtain grace in the form of help in every time of need. Grace here evidently refers to assistance from God –His ability to do in us or through us what we cannot do ourselves. I remember years ago I used to have a very bad habit of biting my fingernails. I used to pray and pray and ask God to take away the habit.

IF YOU ARE SETTING TRENDS OR KNOW SOMEONE WHO IS, WE NEED TO KNOW WHO THEY ARE.

In Rhythm with Ava Collier

TRENDSETTERS TO TRENDSETTERS | JULY/AUGUST 2010

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One day, I don’t remember when it actually happened, but God took it away. I am truly convinced that the grace of God is amazing. If you find yourself with a bad habit, something you just cannot seem to stop doing on your own, I encourage you to begin to ask God for His grace that you need to overcome it. Hebrews 4: 16 says, “Let us, therefore, come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need.” Grace releases in us supernatural strength when we’re going through the storms of life. Grace ignites within us determination to keep going on no matter what. Grace echoes in our spirit that God is with us at all times. Grace assures us that God is in control. Grace is all about God’s provision, strength and help. Whatever you may be going through, remember God’s grace is sufficient and His grace will enable you to stand against anything that comes your way. Always remember there is nothing that you can do to earn the grace of God, you just simply receive it. ■

Rejoice, Pray and Give Thanks By Teri Miller Barker

DAYTON, OH

Teri Miller Barker is a freelance writer from Dayton, Ohio. She is currently a grad student and English instructor at Wright State University. To view past columns, visit www.thewriteawaycafe.com

TRENDSETTERS TO TRENDSETTERS | JULY/AUGUST 2010

INSPIRATIONAL TRENDS

“R

ejoice evermore; Pray without ceasing; In all things give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.” Those scriptures can be found in First Thessalonians 5, verses 16 through 18. Certain events happen in our lives that make us question, “Why me?” or why did a particular thing have to happen? One of the most difficult things to do during hardship is to give thanks that it happened to you or someone you care about. But that’s what the Bible has instructed us to do. Usually when you’re going through difficult and trying times, someone will attempt to console you with the comment that “everything happens for a reason” For me, this isn’t very comforting, because it’s an oversimplified, cliché explanation. But when I read a scripture that says it’s God’s will concerning me, I find assurance and comfort in that because I know that my situation isn’t just happenstance or a stroke of bad luck. It tells me that, regardless of the good or bad that happens to me, God is orchestrating the symphony of my life. Knowing that makes it easier to rejoice, and give thanks for the ups and downs. The Scriptures also tell us that His ways and thoughts are higher than ours, so I’ve come to accept that I’m not always going to understand the meaning behind some things. I’ve come to accept that He’s not always going to tell me why. As a child of God and someone who professes to believe what His word says, I have to step out on my faith and show Him that I’m not just believing with my words, I’m believing with my life. In all things, remember to rejoice, pray, and give thanks.

HAIR AND SCALP CHALLENGES - #2 By Dr. Dorothy Flake PSORIASIS

BEAUTY AND FASHION TRENDS

T HOUSTON, TX

hick flakes appearing on the scalp accompanied by a great deal of itching is a sign of psoriasis. Psoriasis is seen frequently in people of color as compared to other diseases involving the scalp. Scratching traumatizes the skin, creating an over production of cells and causing the skin to flake. Causes of psoriasis may be environmental, genetics, stress and a compromised immune system. Your Dermatologist, referred to you by your stylist, will select the best treatment depending on the severity. Salicylic acid shampoo helps to break down and remove the flakes and steroids, along with

tar shampoos, help with the inflammation. Treatments that contain derivatives of vitamin D work as well as retinoid creams and gels. In severe cases treatment options include injections of steroids or oral medication. Ultraviolet light therapy treatments are frequently used in hair restoration salons.

ECZEMA Eczema is another condition that should be diagnosed by your doctor. It is most often found in families that include one or more persons with allergies, asthma, orhay fever, but not exclusively. You may experience hair loss, but it is not permanent and usually treated with steroid shampoos, tar shampoos, lotions, and gels. Light oils like canola and hazelnut oils used sparingly on the scalp are essential preparations recommended for psoriasis and eczema. Meditation, exercise, a healthy scalp, a nutritious diet, hair care, and proper maintenance are the key ingredients to maintaining healthy hair for those with eczema. Dr. Flake recommends maintaining a good balance of moisture on the scalp by using a light moisture cream or lotion. AT HOME RECOMMENDATIONS: * Tee Tree Shampoos and Tee Tree oils, which lift flakes and calm the inflammation. * Nizoral Shampoo * Tar Based Shampoos Be Blessed and Encouraged, WOMEN'S HAIR RESTORATION Dr. Dorothy Flake, PhD Salon in the Park/Willowbrook 17776 Tomball Parkway, Suite 106 Houston, TX 77064 Bus: 281-517-6145 FAX: 281-445-1058

TRENDSETTERS TO TRENDSETTERS | JULY/AUGUST 2010

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We Are Seeing A Little Sunshine

By Mechelle Bowser

ATLANTA, GA

Mechelle Bowser, Luxury Foreclosure Specialist bowsergroup@yahoo.com

TRENDSETTERS TO TRENDSETTERS | JULY/AUGUST 2010

REAL ESTATE TRENDS

illions of Americans are still likely to lose their homes in the coming years, but the foreclosure crisis is finally showing signs of subsiding. The number of households facing foreclosure in April decreased two percent from a year ago, the first annual decline in five years, according to Realty Trac, Inc. (a foreclosure listing firm in Irvin, Calif.). The data isn’t all sunny and bright. While the number of new delinquencies is dropping, the number of borrowers losing their homes is still rising. The banks seized a record 92,000 homes in April, which is still a high number, so that goes to show where we were last year this time. There are millions of potential foreclosures ahead. Nearly 7.4 million borrowers had missed at least one month of their mortgage payments or were in foreclosure as of March, according to Lender Processing Services Inc., (a mortgage data research firm). Realty Trac, Inc. reported that nearly 334,000 households or one in every 387 homes received a foreclosure-related notice in April that was down more than nine percent from March. Economic woes, such as unemployment or reduced income, are the main catalysts for foreclosures this year. Initially, very lax lending standards were the culprit, but homeowners with good credit who applied for and received conventional, fixed-rate loans are now the fastest growing group of foreclosures. “As the economy turns around, you will see an improvement in housing markets and in foreclosure activity,” said Rick Sharga, Senior V.P., Realty Trac. At this point we all want to see an improvement in this housing slump. We are almost out of the woods…finally. Lenders are offering a variety of programs to help homeowners modify their loans, but their success rates vary. Hundreds of thousands of homeowners cannot qualify or fall back into default. So some modifications are working and some are not, take your time and read the fine print on the modifications. President Obama’s administration is managing a $75 billion program that so far has helped about 231,000 homeowners with permanent reductions to their monthly mortgage bills. That's about 20 percent of the 1.2 million borrowers who started the program over the past year. Foreclosed homes are typically sold at steep discounts, lowering the value of surrounding properties. Some investors look at this as a time of economic gain, by buying rental properties for pennies on the dollar, but for the less fortunate, it is a time of despair. I believe that this economy will soon turn around, we have to be patient. As time goes on, I hope we will see a stable housing market; kids playing in the streets, cookouts in the backyards and our families enjoying life once again in our communities. If you or anyone you know is challenging foreclosure or would like a foreclosure list, email me at bowsergroup@yahoo.com.

TRENDSETTERS TO TRENDSETTERS | JULY/AUGUST 2010

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N In Rhythm with Ava Collier

BC’s 30 Rock star Kevin Brown, aka DOTCOM, is a comedian and actor who is making his way on to the big screen. Kevin currently plays the bodyguard and best friend to fellow actor Tracy Morgan’s character on 30 Rock, which also stars Alec Baldwin and Tina Fey. This New York City native and Screen Actors Guild award winner recently joined an A-list cast in one of this summer’s most anticipated movies, “Sex and the City 2,” starring Sarah Jessica Parker and Kim Cattrell. Kevin chatted with me about his interesting name, his web series, “Livin’XL with Grizz and DOTCOM” and his acting and comedic talents. Ava: Kevin, tell me about your name, DOTCOM, and his character on 30 Rock

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Kevin: When I first started doing stand up comedy, I was going by the name of Big Kev. After promoting the name for a few years, I started noticing that every guy with the name of Kevin in NY who was doing business started using the name Big Kev. So I thought that I had to make it different so I started using DOTCOM. In the show, I’m one of Tracy Morgan’s homeboys. It’s pretty much that simple. The show is about behind the scenes of a show like Saturday Night Live. Tracy Morgan is the celebrity superstar black comic. When young black comics come to these shows and travel around the country, they have an entourage with them. I’m a part of Tracy Morgan’s entourage on the show. I’m his right-hand man and main guy and the character’s name is DOTCOM. Ava: What is your web series, Livin’XL with Grizz and DOTCOM about? Kevin: Grizz is my counterpart on 30 Rock. We make up the main players in Tracy Morgan’s entourage. In a half hour show with lots of big stars, there isn’t a lot of room to develop everyone’s character. These web series develop the characters more. If the character has a fan base, they can go online and see the characters do things without the major time constraints.. I’m having a ball with it and it gives us more flexibility. The stories basically just revolve around us, Grizz and DOTCOM. We’re both big guys. I’m 6’5”and Grizz is about 6’10”. It's our misadventures as we maneuver through our careers. To view it, you’d go to NBC.com and go under 30 Rock. Ava: Kevin, in addition to your busy schedule as an actor, are you still doing stand up comedy? Kevin: Yes. I’ve been doing stand up comedy for about 12 years now. The thing is, people who watch 30 Rock and enjoy my character have no idea that I’m a standup comic. If you see a stand up comic on Comic View or Comedy Central, you know they’re a comic even if you see them in a movie. With me, it’s vice versa. The nation is getting to know me as an actor. When they see me doing comedy, they say ‘Oh I didn’t’ know that actor was a comic!’ Technically it’s the other way around. While 30 Rock is now on hiatus, I’m gearing up to do some touring this summer and going all over the country doing shows. HA! Comedy Club in NY is my comedy “home” and I will also be headlining at Carolines in NYC later this summer as well. ■

TRENDSETTERS TO TRENDSETTERS | JULY/AUGUST 2010

TAMMY ALLEN

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

The soulful songstress

ATLANTA, GA

ammy Allen is well known and loved in Atlanta for her intense passion for music. The fiery performer exudes energy and fun onstage. The soulful songstress connects with the audience every single performance she gives. Her unique sound is a fresh mix of heavy funky grooves over, rock, blues, world and jazz infused music. From updated 70’s classics like Midnight at The Oasis and I Feel Good to funky versions of jazz standards like Night in Tunisia she has the ability to please fans of all genres of music. Tammy has an incredible band of heavy hitters to support the unique arrangements of classics and her original material. Tammy is always a favorite at The Atlanta Jazz Festival where she performed two years in a row. Tammy Allen had the honor of opening for Jonathan Butler at The Lithonia Stewart Amphitheatre this past summer and for the Smooth Jazz 107.5 WJZZ Concert Series at Villa Christina 2006, 2008 and 2009. Her calendar is full year round performing at The Georgia Aquarium, The Centennial Park Wednesday Wind Down, The Callanwolde Fine Arts Center, Churchill Grounds and Mable House Barnes Amphitheatre. Be sure to check the website calendar for her performance schedule. Tammy fell in love with the Blues of BB King as a teenager. The love affair has expanded over the years to include every style and genre of music. Growing up, she studied piano, guitar, songwriting, dance and vocals. Her dream, even as a small child, was to be a performer. A music veteran, Tammy toured throughout the Western United States for ten years before settling in Atlanta. She has lived

TRENDSETTERS TO TRENDSETTERS | JULY/AUGUST 2010

the dream her entire life and endlessly works to perfect her main instrument, her soulful and silky smooth voice. A natural entrepreneur, Ms. Allen owned and operated her own voice training studio for three years before partnering with Terri Harof of C3 Marketing and formed TD Entertainment. The pair produced festivals and did PR and Marketing for music venues and national artists. In 2009 Tammy Allen launched Do Good Get Rewards, an online volunteer rewards program, inspired by her original song “Everyday People Do Good Everyday”. She currently produces benefits and festival through Do Good Get Rewards for Non Profit members. Tammy Allen is the host of “People For People,” a TV show that features non profit organizations that make a difference in the Atlanta area. It airs on Comcast 24 on Thursday’s at 8pm on People TV, Atlanta’s Public Access Channel. Tammy is a prolific songwriter and she has released three successful CD’s. Her last release “Wonderful To Be” received International airplay, great sales and critical acclaim. Her evolution as a songwriter and skillful vocalist is evident on the latest CD, “From Me To You” and has received rave reviews. Allen and Leeland Davis, a young virtuoso pianist with an equal passion for shaking up traditions, collaborated and the final product is familiar yet groundbreaking music. “From Me To You” touches on elements of Jazz, Gospel, Rock and Funk. Beautiful melodies and powerful commentary on life permeate the subject matter leaving you deep in thought. Ultimately, you are uplifted with eternal optimism. ■ For Media and Booking Contact: Terri Harof 404/786/7410 terriharof@bellsouth.nt www.TammyAllen.com 678/344/6032 tammyallen1@comcast.net

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The Art of Nate Harris In Rhythm with Ava Collier

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

hicago native Nate Harris says that his art comes from what he’s feeling emotionally at the time. He says he gets his inspiration from life. “My art expresses what I’m thinking or feeling. I try to use my art to provoke people to express themselves. Each piece tells a story and I try to convey what I’m feeling or thinking about with a paint brush and on a piece of canvas.” Nate is a local Atlanta artist whose paintings can be seen on display at such Atlanta eateries as Masiaco Restaurant in Buckhead and the Gathering Ground Coffee Shop. He states he’d never really painted seriously but wanted a change and decided to step out and pursue it. “I moved to Atlanta and twelve years later I’m still here.” Nate says his biggest challenge as an artist is exposure and getting people to come out to one of his shows. “I try to do events to bring people out to talk to each other. I try to put a combination of different things together and just bring people out to express themselves. My shows are events, not just art shows. I’ve been painting professionally for almost 13 years but I’ve been in art all of my life. Creating is what I know.” He added that his shows are untraditional because there are no dress codes or other formalities that are sometimes expected or required at art showings. “I don’t do traditional art shows. I don’t tell people to dress a certain way. It’s come as you are, bring friends and meet new people. People from all walks of life are there; you can network and talk about my art with your friends.” I asked Nate what are some of his more satisfying experiences as an artist. He shared that it’s very rewarding when someone who has never been to an art exhibit comes out and really experiences it for the first time. “It’s wonderful to have someone new to the experience of art and they come to one of my shows. It’s like I’m introducing them to

something different.” We laughed when I asked him about the long held belief about the proverbial “starving artist.” While he agreed that making a sale on a piece of his work is certainly something he hopes for, it is not the most important thing for him. “I’ve been blessed all of my life. Spiritually I can’t say I’m a starving artist. The thing about God is that He will provide us with all of our needs and I’ve had my needs more than met. My art is more expressive because I’m not doing it just for the dollars.” Nate shared that his art is often therapy for him and tells a story, as was evident during the Haitian earthquake crisis. Nate explained that it inspired him to create on canvas what he’d seen on the faces of many of the orphaned children left behind. “It was touching to me because I saw so many orphaned children. How do you see a child adjusting from that experience? I did a painting to express that. It was a little girl crying and her clothes that she was wrapped in were her family..her mom and dad. I painted their faces on her clothes.” Nate’s art has also been on display at charity events and he believes that giving back is so important. He also believes that you have to follow your dreams to truly be successful. “Follow your own dreams. A lot of times you get into the habit of being what others want. There are stories inside of all of us. Many times we allow other people to change our story. Don’t let someone dictate what works for you. Your passion will automatically make its place with you. I tell people to do you, whatever it is; it will make you different from everyone else.” In addition to his paintings, Nate also has created his own line of T-shirts with original artwork. To see some of his work, schedule of events and more information on him, visit www. natesartistry.com ■

TRENDSETTERS TO TRENDSETTERS | JULY/AUGUST 2010

By Mechelle Bowser If you have any celebrity news, please drop me a line at thestartinireport@yahoo.com. I would love to hear from you!

Hello to my faithful readers! I hope you are having a splendid summer! There is so much to do with loved ones, friends, and family - enjoy every day to the fullest. I guess you are wondering what has been happening all around the world… read on and you will see what I have found for your juicy little ears!!

e must give our condolences to the lovely and beautiful Lena Horne who passed away May 2010; she paved the way for many of our African American artists. Reports are saying that Janet Jackson has really moved on from former boyfriend Jermaine Dupree. Sources say that Janet has a much younger beau and he is from Qatar. Janet went international on a sistah! Supposedly he is super wealthy, too. I wonder is she telling him to call her Ms. Jackson?? Kanye West is making a great deal of changes lately. A close source of mine has told me that Mr. West just recently put his home in Hollywood on the market for 4 million dollars. Also, reports are saying he paid his ex girlfriend, Amber Rose, $1 million to keep quiet about their break up and any details about their relationship. Hmmm...he must finally be upgrading, and I mean that in every sense of the word. Well I have some sad news. Toni Braxton and her handsome husband, Kerry Lewis, have filed for divorce. The couple have two children together. The break up is amicable because they are still working together on Toni’s projects. Good luck to the both of them. This must be the year for “splitsville.” Halle Berry and her baby’s daddy have called it quits as well. The two are currently going through a custody battle for their one daughter. Another split is our former Vice President Al Gore and his wife Tipper. They have also agreed to mutually go their separate ways. WOW! They were married for 40 years. Well it is time for some good news. Jennifer Hudson and her baby’s daddy are getting prepared for a wedding later this year. 50

TRENDSETTERS TO TRENDSETTERS | JULY/AUGUST 2010

Jennifer is truly showing that she is happy; so far she has lost a tremendous amount of weight through Weight Watchers. She looks awesome! We love you Jennifer!! More good news! Music producer Swizz Beatz and Alicia Keyes are expecting a baby and they are getting married later this year as well. Reports are saying that the wedding will be in Dubai. How beautiful! Good luck to both of them. Congratulations are in order for Celine Dion who is expecting twins early 2011. Celine is now 42 and says she could not be happier. Get a load of this break up – Tennis Champ Serena Williams and singer Common have recently split. Reports are saying that their schedules are too busy to see one another. Can we say red eye flight?? For Common I would say anything! Spike Lee is always the first to do something different. Well Mr. Lee has teamed up with Absolut and they are making a new mixed drink. The name that will be on shelves…Brooklyn Vodka. P. Diddy and rapper Rick Ross have officially announced that P. Diddy will be the new manager/partnership for Rick. Ummm, did Rick Ross notice that most of his artists fall off the first year? Maybe too much smoke in the room. Jennifer is all in the news right now. Ms. Hudson is scheduled to play the role of Winnie Mandela in the movie “WINNIE.” Well supposedly, Mrs. Mandela is not happy about the project. Apparently the screenwriters did not consult with her before, during or after the process of the movie. Well that’s it for now. As always it has been my pleasure! Any gossip or news you want to share, email me at Thestartinireport@yahoo.com. Cheers! Mechelle Bowser Celebrity Columnist www.TRENDTOTRENDMAG.com

TRENDSETTERS TO TRENDSETTERS | JULY/AUGUST 2010