july 2005 houston business connections newspaper

hoenix Outreach Youth Center(POYC) has been a beacon oflight for thousands of childrenover the last twenty-two years.

With programs starting in Houston andexpanding to Austin and San Marcos,POYC is making a difference in the livesof children and their families across thestate. Marlon Jackson on behalf ofHouston Highlights Publishing, L.L.C.recently sat down with the ExecutiveDirector of POYC to talk one on oneabout the program’s success.

JACKSON: How did the PhoenixOutreach Youth Center get started?

JOHNSON: POYC was started in

1983 by the late Reverend Robert LHandy, a native of the Fifth Ward area.Rev. Handy was a man who didn’t alwayswalk a righteous path. He worked as adope dealer and pusher, a user, and apimp. Eventually his negative lifestylelanded him in prison, where he foundGod. He made a pact with God, in whichhe told God if he ever got out; he wouldgo back into the streets to right some ofthe wrongs he’d done. After seven yearsin solitary confinement, he was actuallyreleased from prison, upon which time heimmediately returned to the neighbor-

A Sit Down With

Jarvis Johnson

COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT

Please see INTERVIEW, P.3

UpcomingEventsCalendarFriday, July 1, 2005Joel Osteen@Wachovia Center@ 7:30 p.m.3601 South Broad St, Philadelphia, PA 19145Tickets can be purchased at www.ticketmaster.com------------------------------www.houstonbusinessconnections.com

Starlight Cinema • In Hermann Park, 100 Concert Drive •NOTES: Enjoy a family-friendly movie on Miller Theatre’s bigscreen. Movie title will be announced on www.millerout-doortheater.com. 8:00 p.m. PHONE: 713.284.8352------------------------------www.houstonbusinessconnections.com

Saturday, July 2, 2005Women of Jazz - Featuring the Music of Ella Fitzgerald •In Hermann Park, 100 Concert Drive • NOTES: Hot jazz bycool women, featuring Detroit’s Straight Ahead five-memberensemble and outstanding local musicians. 7:30 p.m.•PHONE: 713.284.8352 • www.milleroutdoortheater.com.

BUSINESS CONNECTIONS

Please see CALENDAR, P.4

Available on CD & Cassettewww.jamesdixonministries.orgwww.blackberryrecords.com

INTERVIEWED BY MARLON JACKSON

FULFILLING HIS COMMITMENT- Since Jarvis Johnson committed to helping the children

of Houston’s Fifth Ward through the Phoenix Outreach Youth Center, he’s never wavered in his

promise to the late Reverend Robert Handy. To learn more about the programs and services

offered by (POYC) and it’s many childcare facilities call: (713)225-2221.

Houston

Published By Houston Highlights Publishing, L.L.C. Proudly Serving The Houston Community Since 1998 • Email: [email protected] • JULY 2005

P

PRODUCTSHOWCASE

Motivational speaker, author, com-munity leader, entrepreneur and ofcourse, pastor—are all appropriate titlesfor James Dixon, II. He entered the min-istry at age 15 and was elected pastor byhis congregation at age 18. Under hisleadership The Community Of Faith,now one church in two locations, hasgrown from 150 into a multi-thousandmember congregation. He is the founderand Bishop-elect of the KingdomBuilders Fellowship through which he

provides leadership and mentorship forover 100 pastors and congregationsacross the United States and on the con-tinent of Africa.

Through local and national tele-vised broadcasts, James Dixon is inspir-ing thousands of Americans to thinkpositively, pursue their dreams with pas-sion and to influence the world for good.

James W.E. Dixon, IIA Visionary for the 21st Century

Please see VISIONARY, P.12

To Place Your Product Here: 832.212.8735

THE MONTHLY REVIEWCompiled by A. Taylor

Perry Signs WorkersComp. Reforms into LawGovernor Rick Perry signed intolaw the major workers’ compen-sation reform legislation passedby the Texas legislature, HouseBill 7. “With the reforms passedin House Bill 7, Texans hurt onthe job will get the improved carethey deserve at a lower price

employers canafford,” says Perry.The Governor alsoissued a proclama-tion settingTuesday, Nov. 8, asthe date for the spe-cial election to fillthe unexpired term

of former State Rep. Joe Morenoin the Texas House ofRepresentatives District No. 143.The vacancy occurred when Rep.Moreno died in a traffic accident.Under the governor’s proclama-tion, candidates must file theirapplications with the Secretary ofState no later than 5 p.m. onTuesday, Oct. 11.

MADD appoints DAD asleader for next 3 yearsAs part of its 25-year anniver-sary, Mothers Against Drunk

Driving (MADD)named Glynn Birchof Orlando, Fla., asits next nationalpresident. Birch,who joined MADDafter his 21-month-old son, Courtney,was killed by a

repeat offender drunk driver in1988, will be the first father toserve as national president.

City Council passed themini-motorbike ordinance,proposed by Green This ordinance bans the use ofmini-motorbikes, for people of allages, on city streets, right-of-ways, alleys and in city-ownedparks. This ordinance was creat-ed in response to growing publicconcern about the danger posed

by mini-motorbikesmingling with traf-fic on city streets.These bikes, pow-ered by gasoline orelectric motors,stand less than 2feet high, travel up

to 40 miles per hour and are diffi-cult for drivers to see in traffic.This ordinance in now in effect.

Probe finds HPD Crime lab faked results Reportedly some Houston PoliceDepartment crime lab analystswere in the business of fabricat-ing findings in at least four drugcases. According to an independ-ent investigator in one case scien-

Perry

Birch

Green

INDEXMillennium Audi Now Serving Houston....... 2

From The Publisher’s Desk..........................2

Diversity: Don’t Miss This Event! .................4

Chevy’s Freedom Over Texas Celebration...4

Doing Business in Deep Waters ..................5

Getting Paid .................................................6

Here’s How You Can Measure Diversity ......8

Taxes and Regulations.................................9

It’s Time To Become An Entrepreneur .........9

Why Small Businesses Fail..........................9

The Business Showcase ...........................10

Making It Happen – FormerHouston Mayor Lee P. Brown,chairman of the Brown GroupInternational has cosigned an

agreement with CAMACInternational’s chairman andchief executive, Kase Lawal.The pair has joined forces to

acquire a 21 percent interest inUnity National Bank for anundisclosed amount according tothe bank. Unity National Bankhas three locations in the GreaterHouston area and is currently theonly black-owned bank in Texas.Special recognition goes out toCAMAC International Inc.,president Kase Lawal, forranking No. 2 and Gerald B.

Smith, president of SmithGraham & Co., for ranking No.10 respectively on the recentlyreleased list of the top African-American-owned businesses inthe nation by Black Enterprise.Also on the list from theHouston area were ChaseCom

Lawal Smith Johnson Martinez Menard Please see PEOPLE, P.11

Houston

Diversity Is The Key

BUSINESS CONNECTIONSCommunity News & Business Reports

Please see HEADLINES, P.10 Brown

Recognition & Announcements: Brown, Lawal acquire stake in local bank

AUTOMOTIVE ANNOUNCEMENTS/Publisher’s Page

HOUSTON-Millennium MotorCars, which owns and operates oneof the state’s most prestigious Jaguardealerships in Dallas, among otherdealerships, has expanded toHouston with Millennium Audi nowopen in The Woodlands area.

The Millennium brand is guidedby president and CEO DavidStephens, who has built a record ofsuccess nationwide. Stephens,

Audi’s first African-American dealerprincipal, has been honored and

awarded many timesover for being askillful businessman,a customer serviceleader and a salesexpert.

Millennium Audisits on I-45 Southjust north of Houstonand south of TheWoodlands and is aflagship dealership

for the car manufacturer, which ishistorically known for its innovationand groundbreaking technology.The dealership employs 20 peo-ple and offers full service carcare to current Audi owners,while offering north Houston andMontgomery county car buyerswith an appealing new shoppingoption.

Get Ready for the driving event of a lifetime.

Mercedes-Benz of Sugar Land • 15625 South West Freeway • Sugarland, Texas 77478

Because You Deserve The BEST!Purchase your next car from Kesa Guest

Mercedes-Benz of Sugarland15625 South West FreewaySugarland, Texas 77478

Direct: 281.207.1519Cell: 713.703.5185

Kesa GuestExecutive Sales Associate

Star Achiever

Stephens

•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••Support Companies That Support Diversity! A message from Houston Highlights Publishing, L.L.C.

The Publisher’s Desk

Aubrey R. Taylor, president and CEO ofHouston Highlights Publishing, L.L.C. joinedby Richard A. Huebner, Executive Director,Houston Minority Business Council.

he publication you now hold inyour hands represent our contin-ued effort to provide the greaterHouston area with a much need-

ed affordable business related advertisingand information source. Over two yearsin the making, Houston BusinessConnections is designed and publishedby Houston Highlights Publishing,L.L.C., to bridge the gap and bringHouston’s diverse business communitiesone step closer together. Our goal is firstand foremost to provide worthwhile newsinformation on upcoming events, confer-ences, church functions, and diversityrelated events.

We hope you enjoy the publicationand share it with others. Not only that,when you need a product or service that’sprovided by one of our advertisers, wehope you give them a chance to serveyour business related needs.

Houston Business Connections iswhere small businesses, big business, andeveryone in between can meet and makea valuable connection, affordably, effec-tively and consistently. However, fulfill-ing our goals of unity require one essen-tial element – you.

We hope to see you at the upcomingHouston Minority Business CouncilNetworking Luncheon to be held at theJ.W. Marriott Ballroom on Wed., July13th@10:30a.m@5150 Westheimer,Houston Texas 77057. Register by calling (713) 271-7805.

HHPHouston Highlights Publishing, L.L.C.

Houston Highlights Publishing, L.L.C.Mailing: 957 Nasa Parkway #251Houston, TX 77058.

Connections Line: (832)212-8735 Fax Line: (530)348-6423Email News & Press Release info to:[email protected]

Houston Business Connections is published on amonthly basis by Houston Highlights Publishing, L.L.C.all right reserved. No articles may be copied, rewritten,published, or otherwise distributed without the prior writ-ten approval of the publisher. For special informationrequests of the (832)212-8735 or (281)229-2050.

2 • JULY • Houston Business Connections Monthly • PUBLISHED BY HOUSTON HIGHLIGHTS PUBLISHING, L.L.C. • 832.212.8735 OR 281.229.2050

BMW invites you to put the all-new 3 Seriesthrough its paces on the Performance Drivingcourse. Discover for yourself the exhilarationof its 255-horsepower, aluminum/magnesiumcomposite engine as it races to the 7000-rpmredline; the tenacious grip of its run-flat per-formance tires through the slalom; the quickeracceleration of the 6-speed transmission; and

the athletic responsiveness and handling ofActive Steering. You’ll truly discover TheUltimate Driving Experience.TM Reserve yourspot for the August 5-7, 2005 event to be heldfrom 8:30a.m. thru 8:00p.m. at Reliant Stadium,One Reliant Park, Houston, TX 77054.-------------------------------------------------------Call to reserve: 1-888-344-4BMW(4269)

The UltimateDriving Machine®

MillenniumAudi NowServing The Woodlandsand NorthHouston

T

hood that he had almost destroyed. He walked up anddown the streets and found all the woman he had prosti-tuted, found their children, and said, “Look, lets do some-thing right.” He wanted to give these kids a safe haven.Reverend Handy gave those kids everything he had withthat little $161.00 Social Security check he got everymonth and that’s how he made ends meet. He used hispimping skills to go to people and convince them todonate to the center. I got involved with POYC as a child.My mother had been involved with POYC and had triedto help establish a 501(c)(3) for Rev Handy so he couldbegin to receive grants. She helped him get his 501(c)(3).After graduating from high school and while a student atTexas Southern University, Rev. Handy asked me to comeback to the center and help out, but I felt a little too old tobe part of a youth program. He really wanted me to comeout here and mentor. That wasn’t in my blood at that time.Years passed and he got in touch with me again. I came tovolunteer and the rest, as they say, is history.

JACKSON: What type of children are serviced bythe POYC? Are they primarily at risk kids?

JOHNSON: We provide services for all children. Idon’t believe in labeling our children. It really damagestheir self-esteem and who they are. If you look at the waysociety is gearing and rearing our children these days,every child is at risk. We believe every child should begiven an opportunity to succeed and our doors are open toall who want a strong educational foundation.

JACKSON: How crucial is parental involvementto the success of your program?

JOHNSON: Success starts at home. Parentalinvolvement is paramount to the success of our childrenand our program. POYC is a spiritually based programfirst, and secondly an academically based program; eachof these components needing reinforcement at home.When parents enroll their children in POYC’s programsthey do so with the understanding that they will beextremely active in their children’s spiritual and academ-ic growth. Parents are part of the process–without them itis impossible for us to instill a healthy spiritual and aca-demic foundation in a child.

JACKSON: What are some of the youth programsyou offer at the (PYOC)?

JOHNSON: We provide an array of academic andenrichment courses that are centered around making ourchildren more well rounded. Each day our childrenreceive a core curriculum of math, reading, science, histo-ry and writing. Additionally, the children receive karate,praise, jazz, ballet, computer, sign language, foreign lan-guage and health and nutrition classes. For our parents,we offer lessons in health and nutrition, job training, jobplacement and money management. And of course, we dobible study for the entire family and these are just a few ofour programs and activities we offer.

JACKSON: Is it true that the Houston Rocketsplayed a role in helping establish the POYC?

JOHNSON: No. POYC was established in 1983.The Houston Rockets got involved in 1995, but we willcredit the Rockets with equipping POYC with the state ofthe art facility we’re in today.

The Houston Rockets heard about POYC through themedia. After that, I received a call from the Rockets’office and they said they were looking to do some work inthe community. I explained to them what our mission wasand our programs. Then they came out and visited POYC.They were amazed at what we were doing, the programswe were offering, and the parental involvement we weregetting. We asked for help with books, computers andvans—they built us a building. The Houston Rocket’shome for POYC was built in 1999. It’s a beautiful facili-ty with office spaces, classrooms and a computer lab forchildren. The center is located at 2606 Gregg in FifthWard. From this home alone we’re able to change how thecommunity looks at itself. This is not just a building, it’sa home. The Rockets opened up a lot of doors. From this,we’ve been able to develop our other child developmentcenters across the state.

JACKSON: You’ve had tremendous support fromathletes, right?

JOHNSON: Many athletes have come through thedoors of POYC. Steve Francis and Cuttino Mobley did aChristmas party for all our children and gave them giftsand took pictures. Maurice Taylor has given childrentickets to the games. Derrick Bell, a former player withthe Houston Astros, provided tickets and gave much need-ed words of encouragement. Hakeem Olajuwon did ourribbon cutting ceremony. Carlos Rogers has spoken toour children. Donald Driver of the Greenbay Packers isfantastic. He built a ten-station computer lab at one of our

sites and he has committed to providing a lab for all ourcenters. That is over seventy computers that he’s going toprovide to POYC. Evander Holyfield has also come andspoken words of encouragement—that's just a few of theathletes dedicated to helping us achieve our mission.

JACKSON: Where did the name PhoenixOutreach come from?

JOHNSON: Rev. Handy told me the name Phoenixderived from a mythical bird of fire, a beautiful bird offire. Every 500 years the bird consumes itself of its firebut from the ashes it grows up again to become a beauti-ful bird. He analogized that to the children of Fifth Ward.These children are beautiful and deserve everything thatlife can give them, they deserve the best. However, thecommunity in which they live is consuming them anddestroying many lives. But, from that destruction thesekids will grow out of that and become beautiful peopleagain. That’s why he named it the Phoenix OutreachYouth Center.

JACKSON: Is this a labor of love, or is this workfor you?

JOHNSON: This is a labor of love. I love watchingmy children and community grow. In the first eight yearsof being here I was a volunteer executive director. I didnot receive a paycheck, but I did receive blessings from God.

JACKSON: What is the age limit for your kids?Are they ever done with the program?

JOHNSON: Our programs start at infancy and gointo adulthood. Our children are never done with the pro-gram. We’re always helping our children, even those whohave graduated from high school and college. We providescholarships and even job opportunities.

JACKSON: Give us one of your success stories?JOHNSON: We have quite a few. Brittany Barierre

came to us in the fourth grade. She stayed in the programthrough high school and into college. She is a successbecause she's doing what the system said she couldn’t.She's going to college. She's an honor roll student andshe's giving back to her community.

Anthony Wright came to us in the eight grade. He'sgoing to graduate from the University of Texas. Anthonyis the only one of his childhood friends that didn't getarrested or father a child as a teen.

JACKSON: So what is your greatest accomplish-ment since taking over from Reverend Handy?

JOHNSON: Anytime we get a child to graduate fromhigh school and go on to college that’s huge. The basis ofthis program is to build a foundation for youth to be suc-cessful. Additionally, having a child development centerand a facility donated and built by the Houston Rockets isparamount.

JACKSON: Are you looking for anymore volun-teers? If so, in what areas.

JOHNSON: Volunteers helped to build this programinto what it is today. We look for volunteers that our chil-dren can look up to as role models.

JACKSON: What are your goals for the next sixmonths? What are your goals for the next six years?How do you plan to achieve those goals?

Our main goal for the next six months is to openanother child development center here in the city. Fromthere, we plan to open the Robert L. Handy private schoolthat will offer kindergarten to fourth grade classes.

JACKSON: What advice would you give peoplewho are looking to create a center to help their com-munity?

JOHNSON: I would tell them to be committed anddo it for the love—not the money. Set your goals and goafter them. There will be hills and valleys, but if you arecommitted, you will make it through. Money is so funnywith nonprofits—it comes and goes. If the money goesaway–what happens to the program? For those who arenot committed, the program goes away also and that's notfair to those children.

JACKSON: We’ve heard reports that politics maybe in your future. Is this true and if so, do you under-stand what you’re getting yourself into?

JOHNSON: Politics has been in my blood since thedays of my mother being congressional aid to the lateCongressman Mickey Leland. Mickey was a very effec-tive leader who always listened to the people. I want to bethat kind of leader. Our community needs leadership thatis proven. We do not need leadership that will make falsepromises. I know I can be the kind of leader my commu-nity needs right now.

JACKSON: I’ll play the Devil’s advocate here. Ifyou could pick one thing that your eventual opponentsmay focus on, what do you think that would be?

JOHNSON: I anticipate that my opponents mayfocus on whatever they think my greatest weaknessappears to be in their eyes. However, I will be ready!Like many people, as a child, I did some childish thingsthat may have been construed as wrong, but I have donemany more things right and that will be where I will directthe focus of my campaign. My feeling is that I am themost qualified candidate for the District B race and weshould keep the focus of the constituents on qualifica-tions. There have already been politically motivatedattacks on me and my organization and they have been tothe detriment of the parents and children we serve. Godhas continued to open doors for me and the organizationand I believe it will continue. In short, I know what I’mgetting myself into. I’ve been an advocate for my childrenand my community for many years now. I am currentlygoing on my eleventh year at the POYC. Seeing theworks that my mother did as a congressional aid to the lateCongressman Mickey Leland, I saw the great worksMickey was doing in the community and he as well as thegreat leaders that came out of his camp, such as El FrancoLee, Harold Dutton, Ron Wilson and Rodney Ellis, allwere faced with opposition as people tried to tear themdown. I already know people are going to try to tear medown and I believe the first place they will start is withwhat I do. My work here with the children will become afocal point. How do we get the money we get? How didwe develop our programs? They’re going to try to come atme, and they have already tried to come at me. You knowwe had a story done by a local news station questioningour services and what we offer and to how many children.We’re confident in the work that we do. We’re solid in thework that we do, and we have many people who willvouch for the work that we do.

JACKSON: We started off discussing Rev. Handyand the impact he had on your life. Who else has

We believe everychild should be

given an opportunityto succeed and ourdoors are open to all who want astrong educational

foundation.

—JARVIS JOHNSON

“ “

PUBLISHED BY HOUSTON HIGHLIGHTS PUBLISHING, L.L.C. • 832.212.8735 OR 281.229.2050 • Houston Business Connections Monthly • JULY • 3

Please see INTERVIEW, P.12

Interviewcontinued from P.1

Houston Comets vs. Charlotte Sting • LOCATION: Toyota Center, 1510Polk •NOTES: WNBA Basketball at 1:30 p.m. Game times subject tochange.www.houstoncomets.com• PHONE: 713.627.WNBA--------------------------------------------------www.houstonbusinessconnections.com

Sunday, July 3, 2005New Life Student Worship ExperienceOur New Life Student Worship Experience, for all mid-high andhigh school students, has returned every Sunday 10:00 AM atMoon Hall. Time:10:00 AM Location: 6000 Heatherbrook (MoonHall): Phone: 713.723.8187 For more info: www.kingdom-builders.com--------------------------------------------------www.houstonbusinessconnections.com

Monday, July 4, 2005

Chevy's Freedom Over Texas withFireworks Presented by Southwest AirlinesHouston's Official July 4th Celebration, will celebrate America'sBirthday with a live concert featuring Clint Black and LeAnn Rimes,and one of the largest fireworks displays, presented by SouthwestAirlines, in the state of Texas! Eleanor Tinsley Park @ Buffalo Bayou,4:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.--------------------------------------------------www.houstonbusinessconnections.com

City Holiday - Independence Day • City offices closed.

--------------------------------------------------www.houstonbusinessconnections.com

EVENT - Washington-on-the-Brazos: HEB presents "Fireworks-on-the-Brazos." Celebrate our nation's independence where Texasdeclared her independence! Free Blue Bell and Coca-Cola. Liveconcert, HEB's Fireworks Extravaganza. Cost: n/a. Location:Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site, FM 1155,Washington. Region: Texas Prairies and Lakes. For more informa-tion, call 936-878-2214 or 1-888-BRENHAM. Please mention thislisting when inquiring.--------------------------------------------------www.houstonbusinessconnections.com

Prayer, Praise, and Dance-Time: 7:00 PM Location: Windsor-South Main. For more info: www.kingdombuilders.comor Phone: 713.723.8187--------------------------------------------------www.houstonbusinessconnections.com

Houston Symphony Summer Symphony Nights • In HermannPark, 100 Concert Drive • NOTES • Principal Pops ConductorMichael Krajewski leads an all-American salute to commemorateIndependence Day in style! 8:30 p.m. PHONE: 713.284.8352 •www.milleroutdoortheater.com--------------------------------------------------www.houstonbusinessconnections.com

Wednesday, July 6, 2005Victory Wednesdays!! We invite you and your family to a time ofprayer, praise and worship, and bible study with great food and fel-lowship. This class is being taught by Pastors Kirbyjon and SuzetteCaldwell. Time: 6:00 PM Location: The Power Center. For moreinfo: www.kingdombuilders.com or Phone: 713.723.8187-----------------------------------------------www.houstonbusinessconnections.com

Houston Wranglers vs. St. Louis Aces • LOCATION:WestsideTennis Club, 1200 Wilcrest • NOTES:Professional tennis team play.www.wtt.com• PHONE:713.978.7400--------------------------------------------------www.houstonbusinessconnections.com

Thursday, July 7, 2005Joel Osteen@Arrowhead Pond of Anaheim@8:00p.m.2695 E. Katella, Anaheim, CA 92806 Tickets can be pur-chased at www.ticketmaster.com-----------------------------------------------www.houstonbusinessconnections.com

Friday, July 8, 2005Joel Osteen@Arrowhead Pond of Anaheim @8:00 p.m.2695 E. Katella, Anaheim, CA 92806 Tickets can be pur-

MEETINGS • CHURCH FUNCTIONS • CONVENTIONS • EVENTS

Your Opinion Counts! Houston City Council meetings are conducted each week on Tuesdays at 1:30p.m. and Wednesdays beginning at 9:00 a.m. Any citizen may speak before Council on a Tuesday beginning at2:00 p.m. To reserve time to address City Council (up to three minutes), contact the City Secretary's Office(713.247.1840) prior to the commencement of the meeting. All Council meetings are open to the public andheld at City Hall located at 900 Bagby, 2nd Floor in Downtown, Houston.

New Lakewood Church Central 2005

Grand OpeningJuly 16th & 17th, 2005


he Houston Minority

Business Council’s (HMBC)

Scholarship Awards Luncheon will

be held on Wednesday, July 13that the J. W. Marriott Exhibition

Center, 5150 Westheimer @ Sage.

The funds derived from the 27th

Annual Sports Classic which was

held in May of 2005 will be distrib-

uted to scholarship recipients who

have met HMBC’s Scholarship

Committee’s criteria. For more

information on the event call:

(713)271-7805

Guest SpeakersAngela C. Buffa, CEO, Ideal Medical, Inc.(dba) Integrated Medical Solutions, a pastHMBC MBE scholarship recipient will dis-cuss “Overcoming Challenges.” Ms. Buffahas over 29 years experience in healthcare,

construction and manage-ment. In 1989, after servingas a national sales managerand general manager for twomajor healthcare distributors,she founded her own firm,Ideal Medical, Inc. In 1991,she opened its subsidiary,

Integrated Medical Solutions, Inc., ahealthcare facilities consulting firm. “Itdidn’t come all that easy for me” saysAngela, “And, I am anxious to share mystory with you and let you know the impor-tance of what being a scholarship recipientmeant to me and how it allowed me tostrengthen my management skills.” Ms.Buffa has indeed overcome many chal-lenges. Due to her visionary strategies,her firm has grown from a one-womanowned business to a nationally recognized,turnkey medical equipment consultantand healthcare facilities interior integra-tors with offices nationwide.

Andrew F. Icken, Executive VicePresident, Texas Medical Center andMember of the HMBC Board of Directorswill bring us the HMBC story...where wehave come from; where we are; and wherewe are going. As one of the writers of

Why Supplier Diversity? TheBusiness Case,” Mr. Ickenwill inform you how thisstrategy is driving the TexasMedical Center for broaderutilization of minority firms.Mr. Icken’s responsibilitiesfor the Texas Medical Center

include business enterprises, support serv-ices, government, corporate and publicaffairs. Prior to joining the Texas MedicalCenter in 2000, Mr. Icken was the execu-tive in charge of Exxon’s (ExxonMobil)Materials and Service Department. Mr.Icken holds a Bachelor’s of Science degreein Chemical Engineering from CarnegieMellon University and a Master’s ofScience in Industrial Administration alsofrom Carnegie Mellon.

Buffa

Icken

T

Diversity Related Events For The Month

TAMACC To Hold It’s 30th Annual Convention &Business Expo in Houston“Celebrating 30 Years of HispanicBusiness Advocacy”

he Texas Association of Mexican AmericanChambers of Commerce (TAMACC) will hold its the

30th Annual Convention and Business Expo July 27-30,2005 at the Hyatt Regency Hotel & George R. BrownConvention Center in Houston, Texas. Themed"Celebrating 30 Years of Hispanic Business Advocacy,"

TAMACC has played a predominant role inshaping Texas by promoting business leader-ship, creating economic opportunities and pro-viding legislative advocacy for the Hispanicbusiness community.

This event celebrates entrepreneurship forHispanic business owners and chamber execu-tives across Texas. The convention and busi-ness expo provides small and large businessowners a chance to meet with purchasingagents from national corporations as well asfederal agencies plus attend seminars that willhelp their businesses.

Business opportunities at the conventioninclude a Procurement RoundtableNetworking Seminar where entrepreneurs canshare their product and services capabilitieswith corporations such as Wal-Mart, GeneralMotors, Verizon Wireless, Wells Fargo,Univision Radio, and many others.

This year’s convention will also include aFederal Procurement Roundtable NetworkingSeminar presented by Senator Kay BaileyHutchison, where entrepreneurs can sharetheir product and services capabilities withstate and federal government agencies. "As aformer small business owner, I understandhow important these events are to strengthen-ing this vital sector of our economy. Smallbusiness owners represent the entrepreneurialspirit of the American workforce. This eventwill help minority small businessmen andwomen learn about the different resources andprograms available to start or expand a busi-ness and contribute to a strong economynationwide," said Kay Bailey Hutchison,United States Senator.

The Business Expo will be a great successwith the assistance of this year’s ConventionCo-Chairs Paul "Chip" Carlisle Jr., Regional

President of Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. Texas; and JuanRoberto Job, Corporate Vice President of MarketManagement for New York Life Insurance Company.

Featuring 150 exhibitors and approximately 4,500Business Expo attendees, this is also an opportunity forentrepreneurs to promote company products and services,and career opportunities to the Hispanic community.

Keynote Speakers include: Drayton McLane Jr.,Chairman of McLane Group, the Houston Astros andAstrodome, USA; Janet Murguia, President and CEO of theNational Council of La Raza (NCLR); Ralph Alvarez,President of McDonald’s North America, plus many more.The convention will feature various training seminars on"Economic Development", "How to do Business with …","TAMACC Empowering Latinas Series: Profiles ofLatinas," "Certification Needed to Grow Your Business," and many other topics.

TAMACC’s mission is to promote the growth, development and success of Hispanic businesses, help strengthen local Hispanic Chambers of Commerce and serve as the leading advocate of Hispanic businesses in Texas. For more information visit http://www.tamacc.org.

T

Murguia

Alvarez

Hutchison

McLane

Carlisle

Calendarcontinued from P.1

chased at www.ticketmaster.com-----------------------------------------------www.houstonbusinessconnections.com

Saturday, July 9, 2005Starlight Cinema • LOCATION: In Hermann Park, 100 ConcertDrive • NOTES: Enjoy a family-friendly movie on Miller Theatre’sbig screen. Movie title will be announced on www.millerout-doortheater.com. 8:00 p.m. PHONE: 713.284.8352 • www.miller-outdoortheater.com---------------------------------------------www.houstonbusinessconnections.com

Saturday, July 9, 2005Cheer/Tumbling Camp - Parents bring your kids out to learnhow to cheer and tumble at this one day camp. Time: 8:30 a.m. -12:00 p.m. Location: Windsor Village Heatherbrook/Moon Hall:Phone: 713.723.8187. For more info:www.kingdombuilders.com---------------------------------------------www.houstonbusinessconnections.com

Universal Sounds of Hip Hop • LOCATION: In Hermann Park,100 Concert Drive • NOTES: Experience the cultural beginning,excitement, and heartfelt expressions of hip hop from the begin-ning to modern day. 8:30 p.m. • PHONE: 713.284.8352 •www.milleroutdoortheater.com---------------------------------------------www.houstonbusinessconnections.com

Houston Wranglers vs. Boston Lobsters •LOCATION:Westside Tennis Club, 1200 Wilcrest • Professional tennis teamplay. • PHONE713.978.7400 WEBSITE •www.wtt.com

---------------------------------------------www.houstonbusinessconnections.com

Sunday, July 10, 2005New Life Student Worship Experience - Our New Life StudentWorship Experience, for all mid-high and high school students,has returned every Sunday 10:00 AM at Moon Hall. Time: 10:00AM Location: 6000 Heatherbrook (Moon Hall) For more info:www.kingdombuilders.com or Phone: 713.723.8187---------------------------------------------www.houstonbusinessconnections.com

Monday, July 12, 2005Ted Nugent, with Shurman • LOCATION Verizon WirelessTheater, 520 Texas in Bayou Place • NOTES: 8:00 p.m. PHONE:713.230.1600 • www.verizonwirelesstheater.com---------------------------------------------www.houstonbusinessconnections.com

Houston Wranglers vs. Sacramento Capitals • LOCATIONWestside Tennis Club, 1200 Wilcrest • Professional tennis teamplay. • PHONE: 713.978.7400 • www.wtt.com---------------------------------------------www.houstonbusinessconnections.com

Houston Comets vs. New York Liberty • Toyota Center, 1510Polk • WNBA Basketball at 7:00 p.m. Game times subject tochange. Game televised by ESPN2. • PHONE: 713.627.WNBA •www.houstoncomets.com---------------------------------------------www.houstonbusinessconnections.com

Wednesday, July 13, 2005Houston Minority Business Council • Event Name:Networking Luncheon • Location: J. W. Marriott Ballroom• Address: 5150 Westheimer, Houston, TX 77057—Time:10:30 am - 1:30 pm—Registration Fee: MBE $25 -Corporate Members $25 - Non-Members $35 ---------------------------------------------www.houstonbusinessconnections.com

CONCACAF Gold Cup Soccer • Reliant Stadium, 8400 KirbyDrive @ Loop 610 • Mexico defends its CONCACAF Gold Cuptitle. As part of a Group C first-round doubleheader, Mexicoplays Jamaica while Guatemala takes on South Africa. TheCONCACAF Gold Cup crowns the regional soccer champion ofNorth and Central America. • PHONE: 713.629.2109 •www.reliantpark.com---------------------------------------------www.houstonbusinessconnections.com

Houston Wranglers vs. Boston Lobster • Westside TennisClub, 1200 Wilcrest • Professional tennis team play. • PHONE:713.978.7400 •www.wtt.com---------------------------------------------www.houstonbusinessconnections.com

Thursday, July 14, 2005Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce From 9:00 AM to10:30 AM : The second Thursday of every month kicks-off theChamber social calendar with a Membership Orientation. Newand renewing members are encouraged to come out and hearwhat the Chamber has to offer in the way of services andresources. Speakers and sponsors attend the morning gather-ings, sharing vital information about how the Chamber hashelped them succeed professionally in the business world.Location Address: HHCC Offices • 2900 Woodridge, 2nd Floor •Houston, Texas 77087 • For More Information Phone: 713-644-7070 or www.houstonhispanicchamber.com

---------------------------------------------www.houstonbusinessconnections.com

Saturday, July 16, 2005Houston Area Urban League —First Time Homebuyers Class •The First Time Homebuyers Class is designed to assist low tomoderate-income families with the home buying process.Completion of this class entitles qualified families with down pay-ment and closing cost assistance. Classes are in English andSpanish covering. Classes are from 8:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. @1301 Texas Avenue (Downtown Houston) To Register Call: (713) 393-8738 or (713) 393 8730. www.haul.org-----------------------------------------------www.houstonbusinessconnections.com

Houston Wranglers vs. New York Sprotimes • WestsideTennis Club, 1200 Wilcrest • Professional tennis team play. •PHONE: 713.978.7400 •www.wtt.com-----------------------------------------------www.houstonbusinessconnections.com

World Extreme Fighting•Toyota Center, 1510 Polk • WorldExtreme Fighting, featuring the world’s greatest athletes battlingit out inside the octagon cage will be at Toyota Center July 16th.7:30 p.m. • 1.866.4.HOUTIX • www.houstontoyotacenter.com-----------------------------------------------www.houstonbusinessconnections.com

Antiques Road Show • Reliant Stadium, 8400 Kirby Drive @Loop 610 • The popular PBS program in which expert appraisersuncover the stories and reveal the true value of objects brought

in by amateur collectors is coming to Reliant Center.•832.667.1400 • www.reliantpark.com-----------------------------------------------www.houstonbusinessconnections.com

Saturday, July 16, 2005T.D. Jakes Ministries presents “Doing Business in DeepWaters”

My Brothers and Sisters,

n behalf of the entire T.D. Jakes Ministries and ThePotter's House church family, I would like to personallyinvite you to the highly anticipated Alaskan Cruise, July16-23, 2005! We will sail from Seattle, Washington

aboard Holland America's ms Oosterdam. This is a beautiful shipand the itinerary is one of the best. Everyone must see thebeautiful ice glaciers and all of the many breathtaking views. Youwill know you are in "God's Country" because only God couldcreate something so beautiful. The theme for this wonderfulAlaskan Cruise is "Doing Business in Deep Waters". I am invit-ing some of the sharpest business minds along with a few of myclosest friends in ministry to lead sessions that will enhance theskills of entrepreneurs, corporate leaders, and those determinedto discover their passion. The sessions will allow us to furtherdevelop our potential spiritually, personally, and professionally.•www.tdjakes.org. For more information: 972-851-SAIL (7245)

-----------------------------------------------www.houstonbusinessconnections.com

Sunday, July 17, 2005Houston Chronicle Nursing Job Fair• Reliant Park, 8400 Kirby Drive @Loop 610 • At Reliant Center. Nursing Job Fair. • 832.667.1400 •www.reliantpark.com-----------------------------------------------www.houstonbusinessconnections.com

Tuesday, July 19, 2005Giants in the Land • LOCATION: In Hermann Park, 100Concert Drive •NOTES: Students learn of the contributionsfamous African-Americans made to the history, myths, and leg-ends of the great state of Texas. 11:00 a.m. PHONE:713.284.8352 • www.milleroutdoortheater.com-----------------------------------------------www.houstonbusinessconnections.com

Thursday, July 21, 2005Technology Innovations Award Ceremony & Luncheon Recognizing Businesses who have made a technology differ-ence in West Houston. Keynote Address: Maximize YourVisitors, Sales, & Profits! Thursday, July 21st at 11:00a.m.Registration. Luncheon and program to be held from 11:50-1:00p.m. The Houston West Chamber of Commerce strives topromote economic growth and quality of life in our West Houstoncommunities. For more information call (713) 785-4922 of logon to: http://www.hwcoc.org -----------------------------------------------www.houstonbusinessconnections.com

Friday, July 22-23, 2005Enrichment Seminar • Speaker: Dr. I.V. Hilliard@7:30pm. ForMore Info: 281.875.4448 or www.newlight.org-----------------------------------------------www.houstonbusinessconnections.com

Saturday, July 23-24, 2005Bridal Extravaganza 2005 • Convention Center, 1001 Avenidade las Americas • Two day event • PHONE: 281.340.7777•www.bridalextravaganzashow.com-----------------------------------------------www.houstonbusinessconnections.com

Sunday, July 24, 2005Lowrider Custom Car Show • LOCATION:Reliant Park, 8400Kirby Drive @ Loop 610• At Reliant Arena. • 832.667.1400 •www.reliantpark.com


Wednesday, July 27 - 31, 20052005 National Urban League Annual Conference • Join us aswe take our message of Jobs, Education and Civil Rights tothe U.S. President, the Congress and the Senate in Washington. Over 350 Exhibits includingHomeownership, Health, Employment, Technology andFun • For Information on Exhibits, Employment Zone,Sponsorships, and Registration, send an e-mail [email protected] or call (212)558-5384.----------------------------www.houstonbusinessconnections.com

Wednesday, July 27, 2005Houston West Chamber of Commerce invites you and your guest to attend our Power Networking Breakfast: Date: Wednesday, July 27th Time: 7:30am. Registration and Breakfast 7:45 am. PowerNetworking and Breakfast. Location: HiltonHouston Westchase ~ 9999 Westheimer Cost:$15 Members ~ $20 Non-Members *** MustRSVP with Payment to Attend ~ Space isLimited *** Call 713-785-4922 for more infor-mation. Payment must be received by July25th to reserve spot. ------www.houstonbusinessconnections.com

Thursday, July 28, 2005Procurement Networking Seminars–It's An Opportunity of A Life Time.Purchasers All Under One Roof. 30thAnnual TAMACC Convention & BusinessExpo. Meet with Major Corporations &Government Agencies: AT&T, Ford MotorCompany, Wells Fargo Bank, AmericanAirlines, American Greeting, Wal-Mart,Ampad, GM and many more! @ The

George R. Brown Convention Center, Houston, TX. For moreinformation visit www.tamacc.org or call TAMACC at (512)444-5727.-----------------------------------------------www.houstonbusinessconnections.com

Thursday, July 28, 2005Diversity Business Development • Straight Talk OrientationSessions....July 28 2005 from 1:30 - 3:00pm at JohnsonControls Auditorium, 5757 N. Green Bay Ave. Glendale, WI.Please email diversity [email protected] to register. Referencethe July 28 Milwaukee Straight Talk.


Thursday, July 28, 2005Diversity Business Development • Straight Talk OrientationSessions....July 28, 2005 from 1:30 - 3:00pm at JohnsonControls Automotive Division Headquarters- Detroit. Pleaseemail [email protected] to register. Reference the July 28Detroit Straight Talk.-----------------------------------------------www.houstonbusinessconnections.com

Saturday, July 30, 2005Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison Presents The TAMACC FederalGovernment Agency Procurement Round Table at The GeorgeR. Brown Convention Center. 30th Annual TAMACC Convention& Business Expo. For more information visit www.tamacc.org orcall TAMACC at (512)444-5727.-----------------------------------------------www.houstonbusinessconnections.com

Sunday, July 31, 2005New Life Student Worship Experience - Our New Life StudentWorship Experience, for all mid-high and high school students,has returned every Sunday 10:00 AM at Moon Hall Time: 10:00AM Location: 6000 Heatherbrook (Moon Hall) Phone:713.723.8187. For more info: www.kingdombuilders.com

August 2005Wednesday, August 3, 2005T. D. Jakes Ministries Presents: MegaFest 2005, August 3rd -6th, in Atlanta is a family affair. Bringing Woman, Thou ArtLoosed! (a woman based conference), ManPower (a man basedconference), and Entertainment events for the entire family.MegaFest 2005 will be one enormous event providing an atmos-phere of family bonding, festival excitement, Christian fun andpower-packed teaching and preaching sessions for all ages.FOR MORE INFORMATION:1 .877.TDJ.MEGA VISIT:www.tdjakes.org-----------------------------------------------www.houstonbusinessconnections.com

Sunday, August 07, 2005THE CONCERT!!! - Come see acclaimed christian recordingartists Donnie McClurkin, Michael W. Smith, and Israel Houghtonat The Toyota Center on Sunday, August 7. Time: 6:00p.m.Location: The Toyota Center For more info: www.kingdom-builders.com or Phone: 713.723.8187-----------------------------------------------www.houstonbusinessconnections.com

Wed., August 10, 2005Minority Purchasing Council Event....August 10, 2005 FloridaMinority Supplier Development Council "22nd AnnualConference and Trade Fair", Disney's Contemporary Resort,1675 Buena Vista Drive, Lake Buena Vista, Florida 32830Contact: Ms. Susan Matuszewski (407) 245-6062 Email:[email protected]


Thursday, Aug. 11, 2005Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce From 9:00 AM to

10:30 AM : The second Thursday of every month kicks-offthe Chamber social calendar with a Membership

Orientation. New and renewing members are encour-aged to come out and hear what the Chamber has tooffer in the way of services and resources. Speakersand sponsors attend the morning gatherings, sharing

vital information about how the Chamber hashelped them succeed professionally in the busi-ness world. Location Address: HHCC Offices o2900 Woodridge, 2nd Floor • Houston, Texas

77087 • For More Information Phone: 713-644-7070 or www.houstonhispaniccham-

ber.com-------------------------------------------------------

Sat., August 13, 2005Crossroads for 5th Graders -Parents bring your 5th graders outfor fun! Time: 11:30 a.m. - 5:30p.m. Location: Windsor VillageHeatherbrook/Moon Hall For moreinfo: www.kingdombuilders.comor Phone: 713.723.8187----------------------------------------------------

Wed., Aug. 17, 2005 Minority Purchasing Council

Event....Tennessee Minority SupplierDevelopment Council "2005 Marketplace

of Opportunities", Nashville ConventionCenter, 601 Commerce Street, Nashville,Tennessee 37203 Contact: Ms. Cheri K.Henderson (615) 259-4699 Email:[email protected]

Bishop T.D. Jakes The Potter's House

O

TO HAVE YOUR INFORMATION INCLUDED IN THIS SECTION EMAIL INFORMATION TO: [email protected].


Please see CALENDAR, P.7

LOG ON TO: www.houstonbusinessconnections.com for a complete calendar of events.

ou might think it’s obviousthat any business ownerwould want to do the bestpossible job of managingbilling and collections. It

may be obvious, but it’s neither common-place nor simple.

Break a Business Commandment

To improve collections, a companymust challenge one of the oldest businesscommandments: “The Customer AlwaysComes First.”

Instead, you should treat yourself aswell as you treat your biggest customer.The work you do for your own company –the tasks that keep it running smoothly –are as important as any service or productyou provide. Establishing effective proce-dures for your company’s billings and col-lections should be a top priority. Withoutthem, late payments and bad debts cancripple your company, no matter howpromising your enterprise.

You must be convinced of your prod-uct’s value before anyone else will valueit. Charging fair-market value for yourwork and expecting to be paid in full andon time is an expression of your own self-respect. The flip side is also true: deliver-ing good products and doing good work isa company’s best “insurance policy” toassure timely payment. If collections havebecome a chronic problem, it might beworthwhile to examine your product.

Prevention is the Best SolutionNever begin work on any job without

a clearly articulated understanding ofcharges or fees. Since many entrepreneursstart businesses for love – not money – thispart of the business relationship makesmany owners uncomfortable. Assumenothing. Get clear, signed agreements inadvance.

Your initial agreement should containbilling and payment schedules andwhether it’s company policy to chargeinterest on late payments. Once you’vereached an agreement, uphold your end byadhering to your schedule. Sending billspromptly and on a regular schedule avoidscatching anyone by surprise.

One small-business owner has madehis sales force an ally in the battle toimprove his company’s collection record.Instead of paying commissions whenorders are booked, sales commissions arecontingent upon payment. The sales forcenow shares his interest in collections. Thisowner has seen a dramatic drop in latepayments and his salespeople have incor-porated clear communications about pay-ments and billing schedules in their salespitches. An added benefit: speeding upcollections allowed this businessman topay down his line of credit, reducing hisinterest costs.

The Uniform Commercial Code enti-tles companies to file a Purchase MoneyLien on orders for goods or equipment. Itprovides some protection if a customerwho owes you money files for bankruptcy.You might consider filing a PurchaseMoney Lien on each order over a specifieddollar amount. Check with your attorney

or inquire with the Texas Secretary ofState for more information.

Carrot vs. StickSometimes, companies are more suc-

cessful collecting when they reward cus-tomers for paying on time or early. Givingdiscounts to those who pay early is alsomore pleasant than nagging to get latepayments. There’s a fine art to nagging,too. The person or department responsiblefor billing and collection should be ade-quately trained in handling your customerspolitely but effectively. Human nature stilldictates that an unpleasant collection call

typically sends an overdue invoice to thebottom – not the top—of the payment pile.

Establish a Reliable SystemEven the smallest business can afford

a good computerized system for trackingbilling, invoices, receivables and payables.A CPA catering to small-business clientscan help you find a system that fits yourcompany’s needs.

One of the most common complaintsfrom small-business owners is “I was toobusy doing the work for my client to taketime off to bill my client!” You don’t haveto fall into that trap. Remember, billing is

as important as anything else your compa-ny does.

If you’re doing business on a regularbasis with a customer, it’s a very good ideato set up an automatic, electronic paymentsystem. These ACH (Automated ClearingHouse) payments can be set up with yourbank to manage all your transactionsquickly and securely.

Many small businesses also set up“lock-box” service with their banks tostreamline collections. Instead of a cus-

GUEST COLUMN BY: JULIE CRIPE, PRESIDENT & CEO OMNIBANK

Getting Paid


Y


Please see PAID, P.7


tomer or client making payment to yourcompany, remittance is made directly to apost office box which your bank canaccess. Your bank processes payments andimmediately credits your account. Small-business owners – who are just as strappedfor time as they are for cash – often find itdifficult to get to the bank to make adeposit. A lock box can save business own-ers precious time and cash-flow problems.

Ask your banker about ACH, lock boxand other computerized banking servicesdesigned to help small businesses improvecollections and cash flow.

One last preventive measure is tocheck out the people you’re going to dobusiness with. It’s amazing how often thiscritical step is overlooked, particularly inthe heat of a hotly contested new contractor a tantalizing new client prospect.

It’s customary for a company hiringsomeone or making a substantial purchaseto request references. When entering intoan important contract, you should do yourhomework, too. Locate suppliers, vendorsor contractors who have worked with yourprospective customer or client. Ask thesame kinds of questions about your cus-tomer that you would expect them to askabout you.

When All Else FailsDespite your best intentions and

efforts, you may run into a brick wall.Polite inquiries and past-due notices areignored. What should you do now?

Collection Services. These companiesattempt to collect your bad debts, chargingyou a percentage of what they collect. Likeany other service provider, some are good,some aren’t. Check out several before youhire one and make sure you’ve spoken withat least two satisfied customers beforeentering into an agreement with a collec-tion service.

BBB Business Care. The BetterBusiness Bureau of Metropolitan Houstonlists several collection services as membersand also offers its own service. BBB’s“Business Care” is designed to resolvebilling disputes between businesses as longas neither party has retained legal counsel.Often, an inquiry from the BBB carriesmore weight with a deadbeat customerthan you do.

If the company responds satisfactorilyto your complaint, the matter is settled. Ifyou’re not satisfied with the response, youcan request use of the BBB’s mediationprogram. If the company agrees, your dis-pute will be heard by a professional mediator.

If the company named in your com-plaint doesn’t respond or refused media-tion, it will be reported in the BBB’sBusiness Care Update. It will remain inthis “Hall of Shame” for three years unlessyour dispute is resolved at a later date.

Legal Action. Before writing off a baddebt, you might take the client to court. Buttrials can be very stressful. No matter howclear-cut you think your case is, the out-come isn’t guaranteed. Several profession-al associations even discourage their mem-bers from filing suit against clients or cus-tomers. You can file in small-claims courtfor debts up to $5,000 without an attorney.

Clearly, prevention is the best medi-cine for a chronic case of slow or no pay-ment. Enlist your banker, your attorney,and your sales people as valuable allies inyour campaign to improve collections.Make billing and collections a top priority.Your good customer will thank you for it.

Sat., August 20, 2005Houston Area Urban League • First Time Homebuyers Class • The First Time Homebuyers Class is designed to assist low to moderate-income families with the home buying process. Completion of this class entitles qualified families with down payment and closing costassistance. Classes are in English and Spanish covering. Classes are from

8:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. @ 1301 Texas Avenue (Downtown Houston) To Register Call: (713) 393-8738 or (713) 393 8730. For more info: www.haul.org---------------------------------------------------------------------------www.houstonbusinessconnections.com

Friday, August 26 - 27, 2005High Finance Seminar 2005 • Speaker: Dr. I.V. Hilliard@ 7:30pm Location: 1535 Greensmark Dr. Houston, TX 77067For More Info: 281.875.4448 or www.newlight.org

---------------------------------------------------------------------www.houstonbusinessconnections.com

Tuesday, August 30, 2005Joel Osteen @BJCC Arena @7:30pm2100 Richard Arrington Blvd, Birmingham, AL 35203Tickets can be purchased at www.ticketmaster.com

Calendarcontinued from P.5

Joel & Victoria OsteenLakewood Church


Paidcontinued from P.6

GUEST COLUMN BY: JANICE HALE-HARRIS, LEE HECT HARRISON

hen individuals walk into a job interview,they do so with the idea of determining ifthe position in question meets theircareer goals, if there are opportunities foradvancement and if the compensation is

satisfactory, among a host of other factors.In addition to these traditional measuring sticks,

however, African-American applicants are faced

with another task – assessing an organization's work-place diversity.

Workplace diversity is a multi-faceted conceptthat continues to evolve as more industries movetoward a global marketplace.

Fortunately, most hiring managers and theircompanies hold the belief that every human being isof equal worth, entitled to the same privileges andopportunities, without regard to race, gender, disabil-ity or age.

A diversified work environment means provid-

ing a climate where all employees feel that they arevalued for contributing to an organization.Externally, it means an organization is flexible andastute about changes occurring in the world around it.

As one might expect, it can be a formidable chal-lenge for an individual, much less one arriving to aplace of business for a job interview, to accuratelyassess the workplace diversity of a company.

Can one gauge the cultur-al diversity of a business? Howcan an African-American besure a particular company has a"cultural conscious" withrespect to minorities?

As a global career con-sulting firm with a culturally-diverse workforce, Lee HechtHarrison recommends minori-ties fully explore a company'sworkplace diversity beforeaccepting a job offer.

But before you assess acompany's workplace diversity,remember rule number one –

wait until an offer is made. Applicants who immedi-ately question a company's cultural diversity mightbe seen as having an agenda other than one whichmeets a company's needs. On the other hand, anindividual who waits until after a job offer is made ismore often perceived as one who simply wants tomake sure the company is the right fit.

Once a job offer has been made, let the hiringmanager know you would like some time to evaluatethe offer. During this period of evaluation, youcan also take steps to assess the company's

workplace diversity.Start by checking out the company's website and

look at the ethnic and gender make-up of its seniormanagement. In addition, ask to spend a couple ofhours with other workers, particularly those in thedepartment you will be working, to get a sense forthe company's diversity.

Find out if there are paid personal days that youcan take off for religious or ethnic celebrations andobservances.

Lastly, ask if the company has DiversityResource Groups. These are groups made up of indi-viduals with similar ethnic backgrounds who meet todiscuss issues pertinent to their needs. Companieshave been known to have DRG's for African-Americans, Hispanics and gay and lesbian employees.

Unfortunately, there is no clear-cut answer toevaluating whether or not a company has a trackrecord of accepting African Americans and otherminorities into its workplace. But with thoroughquestioning once a job offer has been made, anAfrican-American applicant can be certain theprospective workplace is one of equal opportunityand cultural correctness.

••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Janice Hale-Harris, one of Houston's emergingAfrican-American female executives, is VicePresident and General Manager of the Houstonoffice of Lee Hecht Harrison and a leading authori-ty on workplace issues. She can be reached by e-mail at [email protected].

Here's How You CanMeasure A Company's Cultural Diversity

A diversified work environmentmeans providing a climate whereall employees feel that they arevalued for contributing to anorganization.

“ “••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••Support Companies That Support Diversity! A message from Houston Highlights Publishing, L.L.C.


W

By: E. Matthew CooperHouston Business Connections Columnist

ne of the most difficult areas for most smallbusinesses is taxes. The tax laws in effect thisyear comprise a book of thousands of pagesof 3 point print. If a small business ownertook the time required to review all of the tax

law then he/she would either never sleep or have to takevaluable time away from the every day activities of thebusiness. Neither of these prospects is equitable.

It is always prudent to seek the advice of an expert.Going to federal prison because of a failure to conform to atax law of which we are not aware is a disturbing thought.So research my statements before you accept them as soundadvice.

I decided to write this piece because as a small busi-ness owner I am mystified by the intricacies of the federaltax laws. Small business owners can pay excessive tax ifwe fail to take certain steps. With fuel costs in Texas hover-ing around $2.00 per gallon, business owners need to savemoney in every way possible.

Here are some of the simple things we can do to reduceour tax burden. Save receipts from business related pur-chases. Keep a mileage log in your vehicle and use it daily.Pass out business cards daily. A simple trip to the moviescan become an advertising expense if you pass out businesscards and discuss your business with someone at the the-atre. A portion of your rent or mortgage can be written offif you have a home office. Depreciation can be used towrite off the cost of vehicles used for business. Electronicequipment can be deducted from pretax income if it waspurchased for use in business. Notebooks, video recorders,cell phones, digital cameras and certain other electronicequipment can be deducted if purchased for business pur-poses. File taxes on time to avoid fines, fees and penalties.

I was curious to know what the future holds, wheretaxes are concerned, for small business owners. I contactedTangie R. Cooper, CPA, of Houston, Texas for her summa-ry of what 2005 tax changes meant for small businesses.

Tangie wrote: “My opinions do not necessarily reflectthose of any other living person.” Here goes:

“Congress has made a few baby steps with the changesto the acts (Job Creation and Worker Assistance Act of2002 and Jobs Growth Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of2003) which were meant to encourage business owners tospend, spend, spend and help stimulate the economy.”

“Business owners can now purchase certain propertyand expense up to $100,000 of the basis. They can takeadvantage of an additional 50% ‘special deduction’ bonusover and above the $100,000 deduction. Business ownerscan deduct 100% of their health premiums. Business own-ers can take advantage of another tax break when placingcertain business automobiles into service.”

“As more and more people get tired of working for‘the man’, being stressed by ‘the man’ and being laid off by‘the man’; more and more people will give ‘the man’ theproverbial finger by starting their own businesses. Congresswill soon listen to the cries of the masses and make owningyour business even more beneficial.”

The two Acts referred to can be viewed on line. Formore information on how these changes in tax law can ben-efit your business contact Tangie R. Cooper, CPA at 713-724-4069.

With the cost of health insurance premiums risingannually the 100% deduction is extremely important tosmall business owners with families. This benefit alone issufficient reason that every minority in the United Statesshould own a small business. Most of the deductions are forthings we already use anyway. Even if a business declares aloss it can itemize deductions. Whether it is a million dollarmachine shop or a home based hair braiding business own-ing a small business will reduce most people's taxes.

By: Cleo Glenn-JohnsonHouston Business Connections Columnist

recent Presidential report to the U.S.Congress stated that small businesseshave always been the backbone of theeconomy and account for job creation.

The report also said that small businesses have sus-tained the economy in weakertimes and have contributed to thecontinuance of long-term growth.Today, around 90 percent ofsmall businesses employ morethan 52% of the Americanworkforce.

Now, with another electionseason approaching, what doesthis mean to Black and women-owned businesses? Does it meanthat things will get worse or doesit mean that we must seize themoment and begin taking advan-tage of the situation by forgingnew relationships? Do we start some new innova-tive ventures? Do we create an offshoot businessor a non-profit? The questions run rampant.However, not electing the right individuals to rep-resent you could be detrimental to you and yourbusiness and have a negative effect on your fami-ly’s well being.

The reality of Black businesses in the early tomid 1900's is that they survived in spite of the dif-ficulties, and politics played a minimal role in thatsuccess. Those businesses faced dilemmas everyday, so they could not allow who was elected intooffice to block them from doing business. Theypersevered and they were determined to make thebusiness work no matter what. The way we didbusiness then, which was a critical time in our his-tory, tells us that today we are better than just agovernment contract. Back then we didn't have tosell our souls and the community in order to be inbusiness. Even though there was a certain amountof community politics, truth be told, we realizedour strengths back then. We understood that inorder to survive our destiny was in our hands. Thisapplied whether we worked for someone else,purchased our freedom, or bought and cultivatedour own land. We understood what it took to sur-vive. We used the exposure we received anddecided we could manage despite the risks and thedangers. We were respected more then too, notbecause it was a matter of practice, but because itwas a matter of principal, based on the conceptthat we were helping ourselves and controllingour destiny.

However, today that way of business haschanged to some degree. Integration and educa-tion afforded us the opportunity to branch out,

become a part of the mainstream, form partner-ships with others, sit at the table and become deci-sion makers to help our situations. On the otherhand, somehow that never really became a realityfor us, in spite of who sits at the table, the equa-tion was never equally portioned, and the bottomline was never justice. Nonetheless, Black busi-nesses have managed to move forward and

bounce back, even in the face ofadversity.

Unfortunately, in some casesmany of our businesses are depend-ent on the government, therefore,causing fear within themselves anddefying what they need to do forthe community. We cannot contin-ue to allow all of our businesses,churches, or non-profits to be sole-ly government funded. When wedo, we put ourselves at risk andthat's shame on us, because wedon't have to do that. If we spendmore than the national average,

then that says we must change the way we aredoing business with our money and for ourselves.

Therefore, the time has come to change thosesteps and become self-determined, self-empow-ered and self-defined. Since there is very little wecan do about the situation we now find ourselvesin, I believe we now need to seriously look withinourselves to see how we will make it without theparty politics, and without the hoopla of who willbe president in the future, or any elected officialfor that matter.

Suggestions:

1. Learn to play the game and not let thegame get played on you (Politics and you verseswhat's in it for the community).

2. No matter what the outcome, we mustinvest in our community's future by training andcreating our own workforce.

3. We must become creative and willing toexplore nontraditional ventures so we can dosomething different and not over saturate the samework field.

4. Become more attractive to the public, offersomething one can see, touch, smell, and feel andcreate your own news.

Many of our businesses are service defined,which puts us in a, "if you can" situation. Since weare not manufacturing, producing and inventingmuch of anything anymore, it leaves us in a frailposition. We must change that and not let ourancestors work be in vain. If we do that, then likeour ancestors, we could help change our world.

For more information about owning yourown business Cleo Glenn-Johnson can be contact-ed at 832-250-1884

It's Now Time To BeProactive and Becomean Entrepreneur

BUSINESS COMMENTARIES

Johnson

Reasons Why smallBusinesses Fail

Success in business is never automatic. Itisn't strictly based on luck - although a littlenever hurts. It depends primarily on the owner'sforesight and organization. Even then, ofcourse, there are no guarantees.

In his book Small Business Management,Michael Ames gives the following reasons forsmall business failure: 1:Lack of experience,2:Insufficient capital (money), 3:Poor location,4:Poor inventory management 5:Over-invest-ment in fixed assets, 6:Poor credit arrange-ments, 7:Personal use of business funds 8:Unexpected growth, 9:Competition, and final-ly10:Low sales

These reasons aren't meant to scare you,but to prepare you for the rocky path ahead.Underestimating the difficulty of starting abusiness is one of the biggest obstacles entre-preneurs face. However, success can be yours ifyou are patient, willing to work hard, and takeall the necessary steps.

On the Upside It's true that there are many reasons not to

start your own business. But for the right per-son, the advantages of business ownership faroutweigh the risks. *You will be your ownboss. *Hard work and long hours directly bene-fit you, rather than increasing profits for some-one else.*Earning and growth potential are fargreater. *A new venture is as exciting as it isrisky. *Running a business provides endlesschallenge and opportunities for learning.

Taxes and Regulations

O


A


tist didn’t even bother to do testsbefore issuing conclusions thatsupported a police officer’s suspi-cions. State RevokesLamesa Electrician’sLicense - The TexasCommission of Licensing andRegulation revoked the journey-man electrician license of DavidDerington of Lamesa for provid-ing false information on hislicense application. The agencyalso issued Cease and DesistOrders for the following for oper-ating without a license: DennisJohnson-dba D & A HomeSystems of Humble, ChinoLedesma of Austin , BertAguirre of Austin,, Clint Finleyof Pflugerville, Edgardo Gomez-d/b/a E & E Air Conditioning &Refrigeration Service of Laredo,and Terrance Ricks-d/b/aTerrance Rick A/C of Houston.Police Chief Hurtt, Major CitiesChiefs Target Identity TheftCrimes-At their June meeting thechiefs of the United States’ andCanada’s largest police depart-ments released the results of ayear and a half study regardingone of the fastest growing interna-tional crimes; Identity Theft.Houston Police Chief HaroldHurtt, President of the MCCA,praised the results of the researchand the strong commitment by themembers of the association to dealeffectively with this crime.Summary of the Study andRecommendations: In 2004, theMajor Cities Chiefs Associationreceived funding to develop anational strategy to combat identi-ty theft. The purpose of the strate-gy was to provide law enforce-ment nationally with an approachto identity theft that was consis-tent across the agencies for greaterimpact. The national strategyincludes the following seven ele-ments: 1. Partnerships andCollaboration. Emphasizing astate-level coordinating center toconduct crime analysis, victimassistance, and statewide investi-gations. A second recommenda-tion was to encourage collabora-tion among law enforcement agen-cies and other relevant entities. 2.Reporting Procedures. That alljurisdictions agree to take reportsof identity theft in the geographicjurisdiction where the victim livesregardless of where the crimeoccurred; and that UniformedCrime Reports develop a consis-tent definition of identity theft forreporting purposes. 3. VictimAssistance. All police agenciesdevelop policies and proceduresfor responding to victims of iden-tity theft. 4. Public Awareness.Create a national public awarenesscampaign that focuses on preven-tion and response, as well asreporting. 5. Legislation.Compile and maintain a documentoutlining identity theft legislationfor the use of law enforcementagencies and prosecutors. 6.Information Protection. Fundpublic education campaign for con-sumers and merchants to focusspecifically on information protec-tion; work on legislation and otherrequirements to protect informa-tion. 7. Training. All police, pros-

Headlinescontinued from P.1

Please see HEADLINES, P.11

BUSINESS SHOWCASE & Something To Think About

PURCHASE • REFINANCING

Thelma MooreSenior Loan Officer

(713)664-6761

“We’re With YouAll The Way”

2600 South Loop West, Suite #620Houston, Texas 77054

MYRNA L.SLACK-WILSONAttorney at Law

(713)721-9600(713)721-9605 Fax

Family Law • Personal Injury • Probate

5322 West Bellfort, Ste. 106 Houston, Texas 77035

UNNITEDNATIONALINSURANCEAGENCY

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2201 CAROLINE • HOUSTON, TEXAS • 77002

Authorized Agent for Progressive, CNA and other“A-rated” Insurance Companies

Tel: 713-655-0335 Fax: 713-655-0338

PERSONAL INSURANCE DEPT.• HOMEOWNERS • RENTERS

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UNITED HOME MORTGAGE

Ross Mortuary, Inc.

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713-223-80713618 Lyons Ave. • Houston, Texas 77020

Most Problems TreatedIn Our Office

• Ingrown Toenails • Sprains • Diabetic Feet • Strains

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713.526-06005009 Caroline, Suite 201

Houston Texas 77004

Codwell FamilyFoot Center

Faith Flowers, ETC.

14010 S. Post Oak Rd

• Exec. Gift Baskets• Weddings• Funerals

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• HospitalsTel.713.413.4949

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4115 REED ROAD • HOUSTON, TEXAS 77051 • 7 1 3 . 7 3 1 . 1 9 1 9

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Licensed by the Texas Supreme CourtNOT CERTIFIED BY THE TEXAS BOARD OF LEGAL SPECIALIZATION

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713.942.9202

LEGAL PROBLEMS? PROTECT YOUR RIGHTS

9660 Hillcroft Suite #435 • Houston, Texas 77096Bank of America Building Near Braeswood

NOT CERTIFIED BY THE TEXASBOARD OF LEGAL SPECIALIZATION

Sandra J. PeakeThe Offices of

A t t o r n e y s a t L a w , P . C .

• FAMILY LAW• BANKRUPTCY

713/723-5082Fax: 713/723-5085

PROTECT YOURPROPERTY

PIAProtector’s Insurance Agency

Commercial • Auto • Home Worker’s Comp. • Life & Health

713.660-8899

2600 South Loop West, Suite #520 Houston, Texas 77054

BUSINESS SHOWCASE is a monthly inspirational platform sponsored by the businesses showcased. All advertisements are accepted at the discretion ofthe publisher. Although Houston Highlights Publishing, L.L.C. makes every effort to check the authenticity of our advertisements, we accept no responsi-bility or liability for the contents therein. The advertiser assures that advertisements will not contain any matter that is libelous or violates any person's rightof privacy or constitutes copyright infringement or is otherwise contrary to law. The advertiser assumes all responsibility in connection with the advertise-ment placed in this publication. Houston Highlights Publishing, L.L.C. shall be held harmless from any claim, loss, damage (including reasonable attorneys'fees) that may be incurred or suffered for any reason including but not limited to a breach of any kind associated with advertisers included in this section. To include your business in this section call 832.212.8735 or email your request to: [email protected]

Of all base passions, fear is most accursed. —William Shakespeare

What a new face courage puts on everything! —Ralph Waldo Emerson

A good disposition is a virtue in itself, and it is lasting. — Avid

Codwell FamilyFoot Center

Theodore Sims Jr.Complete Insurance

Home Insurance • Flood Coverage •

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Worry is aform of fear, andall forms of fearproduce fatigue. A man who haslearned not to feel fear will find the fatigue of daily life enormouslydiminished.

— Bertrand Russell


Email news information to: [email protected]

LP ranked at No. 86 and DeerbrookForest Chrysler-Jeep Inc., ranked atNo. 90. There were over 23 companiesfrom the state of Texas on the listreleased by Black Enterprise who pro-vides business information and adviceto professionals, corporate executives,and entrepreneurs. The publicationhas 3.8 million readers. Hats off toSheila Johnson, Michael Martinez,and Troy A. Menard for being rec-ognized as recent Bravo Awardrecipients by the City of Houston.

ecutor, victim assistance, and privatesector organizations should assesstheir training needs and seek the train-ing needed. On the Political Front-While the election is still a fewmonths away, the political posturingfor the upcoming election has begun.October 24 is the First Day of EarlyVoting for the November 8, 2005 elec-tion. Tax Office Tackling VotingProblems In Advance – HarrisCounty Registrar Paul Bettencourthas mailed confirmation notices tonearly 140,000 registered HarrisCounty voters believed to have movedrecently to remind them to updatetheir addresses before the elections.“This is a pre-emptive solution tofuture voting problems,” Bettencourtsaid. “We’re not waiting for a voterwho has moved to send us a change ofaddress notice or to just show up atthe polls on Election Day. We want toeliminate voter registration issues inadvance.” For more information, reg-istered voters may call (713)368-2200or (713)368-VOTE or visit the HarrisCounty Tax Office website atwww.hcvoter.net to verify the statusof their registration. On the localfront: – In the race for mayor, BillWhite will likely face no serious chal-lenges. The race for Houston CityCouncil seats are expected to shape upas follows: District A, D, E, F, G, H,At-Large Position 3, 4, and 5, are notexpected to receive major challenges.In District B however, the incumbentCarol Mims Galloway would like tohand over the reins of leadership toher daughter Felicia Galloway Hall,but, businessman Jarvis Johnson,Willie Hunter, and Tommie Allenmay all have something to say aboutthose plans—they are all preparingcampaigns to fill the seat to be vacat-ed by Galloway. In District C incum-bent Mark Goldberg is term limited.HCCS Trustee Herman Litt, GeorgeHittner, former controller candidateMark Lee, Brian Cweren, and AnnClutterbuck are seeking to succeedGoldberg. In the District I raceincumbent Carol Alvarado and attor-ney John Parras will likely face off.The At-Large Position 1 incumbentMark Ellis is term limited and formerAt-large candidate Peter Brown andRoy Morales are expected to be wellfinanced for a fight for his seat at thecouncil table. In the At-Large Position2 race incumbent Gordon Quan isterm limited. HCCS Trustee JayAiyer, DNC member Sue Lovell, andJohn Elford are candidates seeking tofill the shoes to be left behind byQuan. Finally, in the race forController Annise Parker will likelyhave no major challenges.

Peoplecontinued from P.1

Headlinescontinued from P.10

B E A U T Y E S S E N T I A L S

Y o u r I n d e p e n d e n t B e a u t y C o n s u l t a n t

Anne R. Harris713-937-3320

The Pharmacy“ Yo u r F a m i l y ’s H e a l t h I s O u r C o n c e r n ”

Victor A. Ehiemua, R.ph.

713.266.5425

6 6 3 0 S . W. F r e e w a y • ( A t H i l l c r o f t ) • HOURS: Mon - Fr i . 9a .m. - 6:30 p.m. • Sat . 9:00 a .m. - 2 p .m.

Hunter’s Insurance Agency

A u t o • F i r e • L i f e • C o m m e r c i a l • A n n u i t i e s

Bryant HunterScott Hunter

7 1 3 . 8 8 0 - 1 2 8 5

BUSINESS SHOWCASE & Something To Think About

We’ll Work Hard For You!

713.660-9611

Christian Emmanuel, CEO

• Accounting• Insurance• Clerical• Reception• Administration• Computer• Medical• Engineering• Sales & Marketing

Columbia Personnel Services

Nothing Is More Valuable Than A Valuable Employee....6601 Savoy Suite #212 • Houston, Tx 77036

LINDA D. POPE, M.D.COSMETIC EYE SURGERYSurgery and Diseases of the Eye

• Comprehensive Eye Examinations• Medical and Surgical Eye Care• Botox • Contacts • Eye glasses• Permanent Eye Makeup

Linda D. Pope, M.D., P.A.Ophthalmologist

“For the Gift of Sight”PATIENTS ARE PRECIOUS

6500 Fannin Suite 1108 • Houston, Texas 77030(713)797-1500 Office • (713)797-1150 Fax

ANDRE L. LIGON

ATTORNEY AND COUNSELOR

Not Certified By TheTexas Board Of LegalSpecialization

713.662.2500Phone

713.222.2126Fax

• Employment LawDiscriminationWrongful Termination

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DivorceChild SupportChild Custody

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1314 Texas Avenue, Ste. 525Houston, Texas 77002

Call Today!

Live Entertainment Wednesday Thru Friday!NO COVER CHARGE FOR BANDS

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The Wunderbar3124 Old Spanish Trail (Near The Medical Center)

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HOURS OF OPERATION:MONDAY-FRIDAY 7:00a.m.-6:00p.m.• SATURDAY 7:00a.m.-5:30p.m. •

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207 Gray Street • Houston, Texas

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A merry heart doeth good like a medicine.— Wisdom from Proverbs 17:22 Life reflects your own thoughts back to you.—Wisdom from Napoleon Hill

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COSMETIC EYE SURGERYSurgery and Diseases of the Eye

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We’ll Work Hard For You!

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HOURS OF OPERATION:MONDAY-FRIDAY 7:00a.m.-6:00p.m.• SATURDAY 7:00a.m.-5:30p.m. •

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BENTLEYBENTLEY HOUSTONView our Fine Selection of

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changes weekly.

www.bentleyhouston.com

God gave you a gift of 86,400 seconds in a day. Have you used one to say “thank you”?—William Arthur Ward

The finest test of character is seen in the amount and the power of gratitude we have. — Thoughts of wisdom from Milo H. Gates

Thanksgiving is a sure index of spiritual health. —Maurice Dametz

No one keeps up his enthusiasm automati-cally. Enthusiasm must be nourished with newactions, new aspirations, new efforts, newvision. It is one’s own fault if his enthusiasm isgone; he has failed to feed it. —Papyrus

impacted your life? JOHNSON: My mother has

impacted my life more than anyother person. She's made me intothe man I am today. My motherhas great convictions, commit-ment, and loyalty to her missionand her people. My childrenplayed a major role becausethey’ve made me look at life in adifferent perspective. There is averse in the bible that says,“when I was a child, I spoke as achild, but when I became a man,I put away childish things.” Mychildren inspire me to do betterand be a better man and father.

Is there anything else youwant to talk about before weend this interview?

JOHNSON: In closing Iwould like to reiterate a few of

the things we've done. I am abusinessman. I am providing jobsto people. These people count onus for their livelihood. In additionto that, we provide summer-timeemployment to many teens eachsummer. Since 1999, we’ve pro-

vided jobs to high school studentsfrom across the city. We providethese jobs for children so theycan have an opportunity to be inan environment like this andhopefully learn something. Theopportunity we give them also

benefits them monetarily. So, Ireally want people to know thatwe are here providing opportuni-ties, creating jobs, and buildingeconomic development in thecommunity we serve. In this dis-trict (District B), we’re already

doing something to make thiscommunity a better place.__________________________

For more information on thePhoenix Outreach Youth Centerservices call (713)225-2221.

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(TOP LEFT)-Hall of Famer Hakeem Olajuwon, Jarvis Johnson and his wife holding his daughter along with Carlos Rogers at the ribbon cuttingof the Phoenix Outreach Youth Center. (TOP RIGHT) A small number of the many children who have come through the doors of the (PYOC).


Because of his relevance andresourcefulness, he is sought bysports organizations, schools,corporations, and church groupsas a speaker, teacher, and motiva-tor. He is a gifted and skilled peo-ple mover.

Large audiences and board-rooms alike respect JamesDixon's voice. In April 2004,Houston Mayor Bill Whiteappointed him to the MetropolitanTransit Authority Board. He hasserved on the executive board ofthe Houston NAACP for sixyears and is a former board mem-ber of the United Way of theTexas Gulf Coast.

James Dixon's vision forcommunity development is evi-denced in the accomplishmentsof Dominion CommunityDevelopment Corporation whichhas transformed a depressedneighborhood by providingaffordable housing in the innercity; Dominion Academy, anHISD Charter School teachesmiddle school students business,economics and entrepreneurship;and Dominion Plaza, a commer-cial retail center, that is home toan array of small businesses.

The Difference Is Vision aninformative and igniting book ishis first published work. He's alsoa published songwriter and pro-ducer, signed to the BlackberryRecord Label.

James Dixon is a product ofHouston area schools; a graduateof S.P. Waltrip High School; for-mer students of Houston Baptistand Texas Southern University,where he excelled as a debater.He holds a Bachelor of ArtsDegree from Oikodome Schoolof Biblical Studies and is current-ly pursing the Master of DivinityDegree at Houston GraduateSchool of Theology.

He is joyfully married toTanisha Chenier. They have twodaughters, Mariah and Victoria.

“Sometimes the only thingbetween you and yourdream is a connection.”

Interviewcontinued from P.3

Visionarycontinued from P.1

july 2005 houston business connections newspaper

Documents

houston community

executivedirector of

phoenixoutreach youth

phoenix outreach youth

concert drive notes

hermann park

late reverend robert

women of jazz