A s I reviewed the content of this issue in an effort to develop a theme, my 1st thought

was Communications, but that was the theme of the last issue. A second look revealed a focus on Giving, an appropriate topic for the season. In this issue, Author Jameel Davis gives books, in addition to words of hope and encouragement to students at a Cleveland area school. Meanwhile he gives the gift of a strong father image to his son and author Jaheir Davis. Georgia native and resident Breyanna Mikel, CHES, MPH; continues on her educational fast track, but gives the gift of her skills and time to deliver presentations as far away as Southern California. Her spirit of giving is a mirror-image of the support she enjoys from a giving and supportive family. Margaret Bernstein, former award-winning newspaper columnist, and current Director of Advocacy & Community Initiatives at WKYC Channel 3, willingly shares her gifts of knowledge, patience and humility. Her gifts are reflected in the personality of her equally successful daughter. Willie Johnson, who so freely gives of his time and support, urges us to give ourselves “Permission To Win In 2019”, a gift of wisdom and encouragement we so badly need in times such as these.

“Where there is no vision, the people perish” - Proverbs 29:18 Your Success Newsletter - Jan-Feb, 2019 - Published Bi-Monthly

Henry & Dianne Ford Publishers

Then Ramona Smith, the awesome Toastmaster 2018 World Speaking Champion shares with two Northeast Ohio audiences her tips, along with her very personable giving spirit. She is number one in the world, yet her only demand was that her audience would be given the time and opportunity to access her one on one after her presentation. A champion who is giving to others the gift of wisdom, along with an attitude of gratitude, and a dose of humility. To support the release of my latest book, two well established Talk Show hosts give their expertise, time, and resources to expose me to their viewing and listening audiences. Giving the gift of exposure and endorsement, they provide a platform to help me reach others with my message of hope. In so many ways, the giving spirt of the season is reflected in the articles within this issue. It is a spirit that I pray would engulf us as we look and move into 2019. With that thought in mind, Dianne and I wish you Happy Hanukkah, Merry Christmas, Happy Kwanzaa, Happy New Year; and mostly Happy “being alive” and having the gift of choice.

IN THIS ISSUE

P1 - Giving: Tis the Season P2 - Author Jameel Davis: Making a Difference P2 - Breyanna Mikel, CHES, MPH: “Walking The Walk” P3 - Margaret Bernstein: Donuts with Dad (and more) P3 - I Am So Glad I Did Not Eat That Donut (Honesty) P4 - Willie Johnson: Give Yourself Permission to Win P6 - Toastmasters and World Champion Ramona Smith P7 - Reflections & Perspectives: Book Release/Feedback P7 - Gwen J. Bags: Products Plus Personality P8 - Internet TV & Radio Appearances Promote Book

”News to uplift and empower” - Visit us on-line at www.visionsnewsletter.blogspot.com

Giving: This is the Season, Here are a Few of the Examples

Breyanna Mikel, a powerful and compassionate young lady, is somewhat like the Energizer Bunny, she just keeps going and going and going; but unlike the Bunny, Breyanna is also growing and growing and growing. I can’t keep up with the initials behind her name, and rumor has it that this recent Masters Graduate of Georgia State University is heading toward pursuing her Doctorate. Breyanna is a member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc; and more importantly a member of an accomplished and supportive family. The T-Shirts in the photo below reflect their pride and support, displaying the powerful message "She believed she could so she did." Congratulations and Best Wishes Breyanna. Thank you for all that you do.

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Youth and Young Adult Education Corner

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Author Jameel Davis: Making a Difference at Daniel E. Morgan

Breyanna Mikel, CHES, MPH “Walking The Walk”

Above: Breyanna surrounded by her supportive Family Below (Left): Breyanna presents in San Diego, CA

Author Jameel Davis continues to give back to the community. The award-winning author recently visited Daniel E. Morgan School in Cleveland, where he sponsored a book giveaway. As part of the program, Jameel also shared words of wisdom and offered heartfelt encouragement to students, staff, and administrators. Well qualified to motivate and inspire the young and the “more mature” alike, Jameel is the proud Dad of Jaheir Davis, an accomplished eight-year-old author, who himself informs and inspires audiences.

In January 2019, Jameel will be providing training and encouragement to others who wish to become authors. For details visit: https://authorjameeldavis.wordpress.com/ or https://www.facebook.com/jmeelz.

Above: International Author Jameel Davis, Giving Back.

Below: Large audience showing appreciation for Jameel at Daniel E. Morgan School

Margaret at Mt. Zion PLUS . . . . I Am So Glad I Did Not Eat That Donut As I indicated in the previous story, my last words to Margaret on November 18th were “I will take this (the donut) to my wife.”. Fast forward to December 2nd, where Margaret Bernstein is having a Book Signing at my church, Mt. Zion of Oakwood Village. This time good fortune (and early arrival) caused us to cross paths as she was taking books into the church. Once inside the church, I introduced Margaret and her daughter to my wife Dianne. After exchanging the customary “so nice to meet you” comments; Margaret asked Dianne, “Did you enjoy the donut I sent you?” Dianne’s response was; “I sure did, and Thank You!” I was completely floored, but managed to ask Margaret; “Are you trying to get me busted?” Of course, there was laughter from all involved; but only because I had been sincere and truthful in my intentions. The obvious “what if” in this scenario is “what if I had eaten that donut?” Chances are that I may have felt the need to make up a lie (and remember we’re in church), to cover up insincerity. My credibility would have been weakened with Margaret, her daughter; and OH YES, with my wife Dianne. Even the great taste of a Glazed Donut cannot remove the bad aftertaste of insincerity. Three Observations From My Experience: • Honesty is the best policy. • Margaret Bernstein has a great memory. • You should get your own (donut and book).

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Margaret at Author’s Showcase On November 18th I attended a Book Signing, where I had the good fortune to meet Margaret Bernstein, Director of Advocacy & Community Initiatives at WKYC Channel 3 - Cleveland. A former award-winning newspaper columnist for the Cleveland Plain Dealer, Margaret is the author of several books, including Donuts with Dad. Her competence, high visibility and warm personality has resulted in many fans and followers. Meeting Margaret was truly a pleasurable experience. Because I was taking photos at the event, but did not have a vendor table; I was able to observe Margaret as she interacted with long lines of people, and always managed to treat each one as the most important person in the room. During times when the line was not so long, advice seekers would engage her in sometimes long conversations seeking advice and counsel. She always displayed tact, kindness, and patience; and always leave those with whom she spoke, encouraging words. As I was leaving the Book Signing, Margaret offered me a donut from her Display Table. After refusing several times, I finally decided to take one to go; and commented to Margaret that “I will take this to my wife.” I was extremely pleased several days later, to discover that Margaret would be visiting my church, Mt. Zion of Oakwood Village, where she would also have copies of her book available. Donuts with Dad is a delightfully delicious outing between father and daughter. Any dad can enjoy sharing the imaginative adventure with his child. Sprinkled with daddy swagger, it's sure to spark many lively read-alouds as fathers boast of their skills from hairstyling to teaching basketball moves.

Margaret Bernstein - Author, Community Leader, and So Much More

For more information about Margaret and her book Donuts with Dad, visit: https://www.amazon.com/Donuts-Dad-Margaret-Bernstein/dp/1612446647

A page from the book

Wow - It's here- 2019!!

As you begin mapping out this New Year of 2019 and beyond – realize that you have the power to Live Up To Your Potential, Create A Larger Vision For Your Life and Manifest Your Greatness. Yes – you have the power to be, to do, and to have whatever you truly desire. In fact, I would submit that you are much more powerful than you could ever imagine, and if you are not manifesting your greatness, it is probably because you do not fully understand the power of goals and goal setting. There - I said it... My thought around goals & goal setting. Based on my statement above, I would challenge you to be creative and make this your best year ever. How do you do that you ask? Great question - and there are many good answers. However, through this writing, I will focus on the strategies of "Establishing Goals". Why? It is through your goals that you will be able to see and or visualize your vision. Let's face it - you goals are really an extension of your dreams, and a reflections of your interests.

It should go without saying - unless you devote some thought toward creating truly meaningful goals, it does absolutely no good to set goals. For example, hot-shots and criminals have goals, so does a minister. I submit to you that the difference is found in the quality of their internal vision and focus. Let's take a look at the process; which can be broken down into three simple steps:

1. Starting The Goal Planning requires an ability to first visualize your future and then creating the strategy for navigating it. We will never know where to direct our path if we do not know our destination.

2. Obtaining The Necessary Facts We must determine where we can obtain the most accurate facts relevant to our goals to assist us.

3. Making the Plan Although making a plan is important, you should not worry about making a perfect plan. Life happens, and you will need to be able to make adjustments along the way. Always remember that your plan's chief function is to get you focused and started down the correct path. It is also important to note here, that without goals, chances are extremely high that you will not even get started. A dream without a goal is similar to taking a road trip without a GPS or old school road map. You will definitely arrive somewhere, but where will it be? To have the best chance at achieving your dreams, It is necessary to set specific, and measurable goals that are compatible with your dreams. The next step is to break down your goals into small action items and list activities that will help you attain your goals. You must also develop a detailed and scheduled action plan, that allows you to take one step at a time, in the movement toward your goals accomplishments.

Give Yourself Permission To Win In 2019 By: Willie Johnson - The Ambassador of Potentiality

Email: willie@williejayspeaks.com - Mobile: (479) 409-6340 www.williejayspeaks.com

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VISIONS “News to uplift and empower” - Visit us on-line at www.visionsnewsletter.blogspot.com

Statistics show that most people don't set goals for themselves. Isn't it tragic - The consequence is that they will find themselves holding a sign that say "Anywhere"; which implies they will settle for any destination... don't be like most people - instead, be creative and establish realistic goals for yourself. As a final footnote for this article, I want to lay out the following six (6) guidelines on establishing goals:

1. Your Goals Must Be Realistic: Just as your vision for a better life should be grounded in reality versus fantasy, your goals must be reasonably attainable.

2. Your Goals Must Be Meaningful: The goals that you set must be focused on your vision. Therefore, you should not set goals that do not have a definite direction.

3. Your Goals Must Be Well-Defined: How are you going to get to where you want to be if you do not have well-defined goals?

4. Your Goals Must Excite You: Here, the emphasis must be on "you" because this is the vision for your life.

5. Your Goals Require Positive Action: The primary purpose for setting goals is not only to motivate you, but to also get you started in the right direction.

6. Your Goals Should Not Isolate You: While being in-tune with where you want to go is important, do not forget to consider what you want to become.

Good luck with establishing and setting your 2019 goals. May the "Force" be with you...

- Page 5 - VISIONS “News to uplift and empower” - Visit us on-line at www.visionsnewsletter.blogspot.com

Willie Johnson’s Newest Book Shares Valuable Life Tips

Willie Johnson - New Book “Be Amazing” Announcing the release of his second book: Be Amazing : 15+1 Insights on how to create a larger vision for your life. More information at: https://16insightstobeamazing.com/

In my first published book, "It's Never Too Late To Live Up To Your Potential", I shared 11 stand alone insights for living successful, meaningful, and purposeful lives. This was my action step of letting people know that it doesn't matter what stage of life they are going through - their value is unlimited, and that it's possible to positively impact their life, the life of others, and their communities.

If viewing this page in PDF Format, CLICK HERE TO ORDER, otherwise enter

https://www.amazon.com/Its-Never-Too-Late-Potential/dp/1519624247 into your browser.

Willie Johnson is a VISIONS Partner - Please consider his products and services

Willie Johnson is a VISIONS Partner - Please consider his products and services

- Page 6 - VISIONS “News to uplift and empower” - Visit us on-line at www.visionsnewsletter.blogspot.com

The Toastmasters Leadership Training Meeting attracted a large number of Toastmasters to the Akron Public Library on Saturday, December 8th. Besides the normal agenda, there was the draw of additional star power in the form of Cleveland Native Ramona Smith, the 2018 World Champion of Public

Speaking, who delighted and inspired the audience with reflections of her journey through adversity and challenge on her road to the world championship. True to who she is, she signed autographs, posed with attendees for photos, shared hugs; and so many other things that many champions do not do. Her talent showed, as did her love and compassion.

The program also consisted of training sessions led by seasoned and accomplished Toastmasters, such as Dennis Deegan pictured below.

Thank you to Sravanthi Vallampati, DTM (left side of photo), the Program Quality Director District 10, for my invitation to attend the event. Sravanthi is aware of my support of Toastmasters,

my interest in helping others overcome obstacles, and my work in helping clients grow personally and professionally.

On Monday, December 10th, two days after the Toastmasters event in Akron, Ramona Smith was at the University Hts. Public Library, looking as though she had been resting for a month. Once again she showed up, and once again she showed out (in a good way).

Right: Ramona dazzles and delights an appreciative audience.

Right: Deonna Moore

Taylor, DTM explains the value of Toastmasters

membership. The meeting was to help promote a newly formed Toastmasters Club founded by Deonna Moore Taylor, DTM. I recall Deonna’s kindness and commitment; when several years ago she made an unscheduled appearance at a local club meeting, just because she knew I was bringing a guest. The standing room only (even into the hallway) audience loved Ramona’s message and her charm. In comments following Ramona’s presentation, someone close to her, reflecting on a shared experience, commented about a challenging time, and stated in an emotionally shaken voice “. . . and you listened.” It is powerful thought and lesson; that one’s memory of the World Champion of Public Speaking, was her willingness to ”listen.” Their expressions and the hug that followed touched everyone. For information about how you can benefit from membership in the newly formed Toastmasters Club at the January meeting, Click Here if viewing the PDF File, or email dgmdtm@gmail.com.

Toastmasters, International - Northeast Ohio Style! Two Events in Three Days; A Champion Recognized, Potential Realized A “Hometown Hero” Shares from The Winner’s Circle and From The Heart

Read more about the impact of Toastmasters International and Ramona Smith in my book Reflections and Perspectives, by visiting www.successisyou.org.

Ahead of schedule and with great expectations is how I describe the release of and feedback to my latest book, Reflections and Perspectives; Powerful Life Lessons. The first reviews are in, and I am blessed and thrilled with the support and feedback I am receiving. Thank you to all who had a part in bringing this motivational, self-help book to reality. My prayer and hope is that sharing my reflections and perspectives will encourage others to face their challenges with constructive actions that assist them in achieving their dreams. I hope you will consider purchasing the book for yourself and others. The links to ordering (or for more information) can be found at www.successisyou.org.

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Reflections and Perspectives: Powerful Life Lessons Book Available on Amazon in eBook and Print Version

Early Reader Feedback Below:

“What a privilege reading this book. As you know I'm a 86 year old black woman and some of your experiences brought the tears to my eyes. How well you expressed so many of my feelings, especially dealing with the subject of race in America . . . “.

Betty Suber - Cleveland, Ohio

***

“ . . . my hope is that you will not only read the valuable content as laid out by Henry Ford, but also recommend this book to others

within your circle of influence.”

Willie Johnson - Author, Professional Speaker, Trainer Fayetteville, Arkansas

wen J Bags reat Products + reat Service + reat Lady = uaranteed Satisfaction

One of the great businesses featured at a recent event I attended was Gwen J Bags. Although I met the very focused and personable owner too late to urge you to Christmas shop with her, I recommend that you to check out her web site at www.gwenjbags.com. In addition to a large selection of reasonably priced, top quality products, and a warm charming personality, Gwen is a strong supporter of small business owners. As I observed her interaction with others, it became clear that she is as much a “people person” as a successful business owner. I must admit being a little late discovering Gwen. It turns out that she was included in Who’s Who in Black Cleveland in 2016. So, I am slow; and for that I apologize. Since I now “know better” I am “doing better” and recommending that you check Gwen out. You will likely become a more than satisfied customer, and a friend.

G

Make Something Happen TV:

https://makesomethinghappen.tv Host Audrey Wiggins

***

I am Superwoman Radio: http://iamasuperwoman2.wixsite.com/iamasuperwomanradio

Host Tina Hobson

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Henry Ford - Author, Consultant, Speaker, Publisher Challenging, Compassionate, Culturally Aware, Direct, Engaging, Humorous

BIO: www.blackhistory247.blogspot.com/p/about-author.html

Web Site: www.successisyou.org

Black History Blog: www.blackhistory247.blogspot.com/

Blog: www.successisyou.blogspot.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/successisyou

Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/henryford

Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/successisyou

Twitter: www.twitter.com/successisyou

YouTube: www.youtube.com/user/successisyou

Available on eBook Readers

VISIONS “News to uplift and empower” - Visit us on-line at www.visionsnewsletter.blogspot.com

Just a Thought . . .

The Internet and Facebook are not responsible for moral decay. Consider what you read, believe, share, post, chat or tweet. Remember that “garbage” can also be found in your mailbox, on your telephone, at your favorite gathering place. Avoiding technology does not keep you safe; but education, discretion, and caution help. To focus on the positive, join us on any or all of our Internet platforms on the right.

As a result of the November release of the motivational self-help book, Reflections and Perspectives, I’ve been blessed to have an Internet TV appearance recorded, and a interview/call-in scheduled on Internet Radio. Neither would have been possible without a connection to powerful and compassionate show hosts, along with my presence on Social Media. Yes, the last sentence restates my belief in the benefits of being surrounded by people who encourage and support your dreams, and the benefits of a positive Social Media presence. The TV Interview has already taken place, and I will be sharing links to that interview once the session airs. The Radio Call In Interview is scheduled to take place on January 17th, with details to be announced. Please visit my website at www.successisyou.org where I will have links to the latest information, as soon as it is received. Meanwhile, I ask that you take a look at the websites of the two powerhouse ladies who are helping support my passion of inspiring others. As a Human Being living in these challenging times, you almost certainly can benefit from what is available in the form of information and inspiration. In addition, if you are a business owner, author, musician, speaker, or many of the things I have failed to mention; you may very well find a connection that can add fuel and fire to your passion, and help propel you upward. Please visit the sites below and see for yourself:

Interviews on Internet TV and Radio