THE YOUNG PROFESSIONAL ADVOCATE - 04.29.10
It couldn’t be me...
Last week I had the opportunity to view “The Farm: 10 Down,” a poignant documentary about maximum security Angola Prison in Louisiana. The film revisits the surviving subjects of the Emmy-winning documentary, “The Farm.”
It provided me with an education about the prison system that I didn’t know that I needed. Growing up in Louisiana, I’ve always known that was the place where people went for a very long time. I didn’t realize that most of the residents of Angola are long-timers.
The film provided an interesting perspective on what happens after we throw away the key. And with so many prisoner re-entry programs focused on rehabilitating them after release, I thought we should know about what rehabilitation looks like on the inside of Angola.
View the Young Professional Advocate 04.29.10
Showing posts with label brandi richard. Show all posts
Showing posts with label brandi richard. Show all posts
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Remembering Dr. Dorothy Height - republished from the Young Professional Advocate 04/21
Today’s announcement about the loss of “drum major for justice” Dr. Dorothy Height caused me to pause. More than any other icon of civil rights, her passing is very personal to me. As an aspiring woman of influence, I recognize her legacy as nothing short of a phenomenon.
Supporting so many in the truest sense of the female spirit of nurture, yet demanding so much of men and women alike. She was there at every stage of what we now call “the civil rights movement” with scores of unsung women who supported the movement. In my imagination, I can see her being present, yet not always heard or heeded; her quiet courage and patience sitting in rooms that were closed to most women but her; and the moral fortitude needed to stand on her principles.
And yet she persisted, yet she was resilient and brilliant and accommodating. And on more than one occasion, she made time to speak to me when she knew nothing about me. Looking into my eyes as if I were one of the people she was there to see. So as I walk into rooms where men are sometimes more concerned about my appearance than my intellect and I make contributions that are sometimes unrecognized, I think of Dr. Height. Her name was never mentioned in my history book but her impact was felt. Dr. Height said, “If you worry about who is going to get credit, you don’t get much work done.” This mantra enabled her to influence countless initiatives and organizations that have supported our country.
So one question for you:
What change will you inspire to honor her legacy?
And one for me:
Isn’t it wonderful to have an idea worthy of your concern over who might get the credit?
Thank you Dr. Height for your legacy!
Dr. Dorothy I. Height (1912 – 2010)
Activist, Social Worker President, National Congress of Negro Women
She said: “We have to improve life, not just for those who have the most skills and those who know how to manipulate the system. But also for and with those who often have so much to give but never get the opportunity..”
Supporting so many in the truest sense of the female spirit of nurture, yet demanding so much of men and women alike. She was there at every stage of what we now call “the civil rights movement” with scores of unsung women who supported the movement. In my imagination, I can see her being present, yet not always heard or heeded; her quiet courage and patience sitting in rooms that were closed to most women but her; and the moral fortitude needed to stand on her principles.
And yet she persisted, yet she was resilient and brilliant and accommodating. And on more than one occasion, she made time to speak to me when she knew nothing about me. Looking into my eyes as if I were one of the people she was there to see. So as I walk into rooms where men are sometimes more concerned about my appearance than my intellect and I make contributions that are sometimes unrecognized, I think of Dr. Height. Her name was never mentioned in my history book but her impact was felt. Dr. Height said, “If you worry about who is going to get credit, you don’t get much work done.” This mantra enabled her to influence countless initiatives and organizations that have supported our country.
So one question for you:
What change will you inspire to honor her legacy?
And one for me:
Isn’t it wonderful to have an idea worthy of your concern over who might get the credit?
Thank you Dr. Height for your legacy!
Dr. Dorothy I. Height (1912 – 2010)
Activist, Social Worker President, National Congress of Negro Women
She said: “We have to improve life, not just for those who have the most skills and those who know how to manipulate the system. But also for and with those who often have so much to give but never get the opportunity..”
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Today is Earth Day! - Green Grass Generation Begins
If you’ve ever attended a meeting with a group of young professionals, you will know that the energy can be exhilarating. Focused or not, there’s a kinetic possibility in the air that is hard to ignore. Corralling that energy into a plan is an art form, but when executed effectively can produce solid results.
When I started highlighting policy issues for young professionals, it was with the goal of targeting that energy on issues that would ultimately change our planet. Grass roots strategies to energize the communities, organizations and businesses that we serve. And it’s time to get to work.
Get involved in our 2010 young professional focus area, sustainability by focusing your energy on the Green Grass Generation!
When I started highlighting policy issues for young professionals, it was with the goal of targeting that energy on issues that would ultimately change our planet. Grass roots strategies to energize the communities, organizations and businesses that we serve. And it’s time to get to work.
Get involved in our 2010 young professional focus area, sustainability by focusing your energy on the Green Grass Generation!
Monday, January 18, 2010
My Daughter: An Endangered Species
My daughter shared with me at the dinner table that “It’s like being an endangered species being one of two democrats in the room. Everybody’s lashing out at each other.”
She was talking about her English class, where one of her fellow students remarked that, “the only reason Barack Obama got elected was because the country wanted to make history.” His remark stemmed from a candid discussion about Martin Luther King’s I Have a Dream Speech. When I asked what her response was, she said she just didn’t feel like responding.
After listening to the speech, their assignment was to write down 3 dreams of their own. My daughter’s dream was that everyone be able to express their views openly. As I think about my childhood and imagine my parents’ through stories shared with me, I wonder why she must still shoot for that dream. And while we have enjoyed freedom of speech since 1791, why is it still not equitable?
We live in a world where the loudest, most powerful voices or even the majority of people in the room often overwhelm and conquer the others. We live in a world where the best ideas are often overlooked in favor of those that spring from wealth, power and the ability to speak into a live microphone.
But, I still dream.
I dream that motherless children from Haiti speak loudly through their photographs, that the peaceful calm voices of Gandhi, Mandela, Chavez and King resonate and persist through new voices, that my persistent emails and blogs promote thought, and that my daughter turns opposition into the opportunity to create cleverly-executed, verbal rebuttals.
As we celebrate Martin Luther King’s birthday today and a national day of service on Monday, find an opportunity to serve your community in a way that will help us to see dreams fulfilled in the lives of others.
She was talking about her English class, where one of her fellow students remarked that, “the only reason Barack Obama got elected was because the country wanted to make history.” His remark stemmed from a candid discussion about Martin Luther King’s I Have a Dream Speech. When I asked what her response was, she said she just didn’t feel like responding.
After listening to the speech, their assignment was to write down 3 dreams of their own. My daughter’s dream was that everyone be able to express their views openly. As I think about my childhood and imagine my parents’ through stories shared with me, I wonder why she must still shoot for that dream. And while we have enjoyed freedom of speech since 1791, why is it still not equitable?
We live in a world where the loudest, most powerful voices or even the majority of people in the room often overwhelm and conquer the others. We live in a world where the best ideas are often overlooked in favor of those that spring from wealth, power and the ability to speak into a live microphone.
But, I still dream.
I dream that motherless children from Haiti speak loudly through their photographs, that the peaceful calm voices of Gandhi, Mandela, Chavez and King resonate and persist through new voices, that my persistent emails and blogs promote thought, and that my daughter turns opposition into the opportunity to create cleverly-executed, verbal rebuttals.
As we celebrate Martin Luther King’s birthday today and a national day of service on Monday, find an opportunity to serve your community in a way that will help us to see dreams fulfilled in the lives of others.
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
The Crisis in Haiti…what will the response be?
The Crisis in Haiti…what will the response be?
I awoke to a picture of a young child surrounded by rubble in the aftermath of yesterday’s earthquake in Haiti. She looked so much like the daughter of a friend of mine. Her no doubt once shining face, covered in concrete dust.
I heard about this tragedy on the way home from work yesterday and by this morning heard that the President had committed to aid for Haiti. I also saw a sound byte from Department of State head, Hillary Clinton speaking of the tragedy.
But following the disasters that we’ve seen over the past 10 years…911…Hurricane Katrina…the Tsunami and the varying levels of support and response given, I wonder what will happen this time. And to be honest, I’m cynical about the global response to a country of people of color. I heard a lady asking for help from the United States and wondered if we would really deliver, in a way that would really help her.
So my prayers and support will be with the people of Haiti and I’ve compiled some resources that may help you make a difference in that region.
Wyclef’s Video on CNN
http://www.cnn.com/video/#/video/world/2010/01/12/bpr.wyclef.jean.haiti.cnn
Wyclef’s Blog
http://wyclefjean.wordpress.com/2010/01/13/statement-by-wyclef-jean-on-haiti-earthquake/
Way to Give through Wyclef’s Foundation
Wyclef Jean, a rapper and hip hop artist from Haiti, urged people to text "Yele" to 501501 to donate $5 toward earthquake relief.
WFAA Channel 8’s Giving Recommendations
• The American Red Cross: www.redcross.org
• UNICEF: www.unicef.org or call 1-800-4UNICEF
• Operation USA: www.opusa.org
I awoke to a picture of a young child surrounded by rubble in the aftermath of yesterday’s earthquake in Haiti. She looked so much like the daughter of a friend of mine. Her no doubt once shining face, covered in concrete dust.
I heard about this tragedy on the way home from work yesterday and by this morning heard that the President had committed to aid for Haiti. I also saw a sound byte from Department of State head, Hillary Clinton speaking of the tragedy.
But following the disasters that we’ve seen over the past 10 years…911…Hurricane Katrina…the Tsunami and the varying levels of support and response given, I wonder what will happen this time. And to be honest, I’m cynical about the global response to a country of people of color. I heard a lady asking for help from the United States and wondered if we would really deliver, in a way that would really help her.
So my prayers and support will be with the people of Haiti and I’ve compiled some resources that may help you make a difference in that region.
Wyclef’s Video on CNN
http://www.cnn.com/video/#/video/world/2010/01/12/bpr.wyclef.jean.haiti.cnn
Wyclef’s Blog
http://wyclefjean.wordpress.com/2010/01/13/statement-by-wyclef-jean-on-haiti-earthquake/
Way to Give through Wyclef’s Foundation
Wyclef Jean, a rapper and hip hop artist from Haiti, urged people to text "Yele" to 501501 to donate $5 toward earthquake relief.
WFAA Channel 8’s Giving Recommendations
• The American Red Cross: www.redcross.org
• UNICEF: www.unicef.org or call 1-800-4UNICEF
• Operation USA: www.opusa.org
Thursday, September 10, 2009
After Being Called A Liar...Getting the Job Done
Like many others, I have sufficiently reviewed the comments made in last night's Presidential address. Miraculously, when I woke up this morning Joe Wilson is still an elected official with a vote representing some of the citizens of South Carolina. And President Obama must work with he and other legislators (some who stood up and others who sat down) to create a healthcare plan that works for Americans.
As leaders in the workplace, the community and our homes, we have all encountered someone who has been less than professional in their dealings with us. My question is then, how do we really move forward? Do we truly accept the apology of others and move on to get the job done?
Based on President Obama's comments and demeanor, it appears that he moved on almost as soon as the comment was made. In order to get the job done, we have to be able to put aside words in favor of concrete suggestions, ideas and solutions.
So let's use this as a growth experience. Share how you turned a disparaging comment or a lack of respect into a finished project.
As leaders in the workplace, the community and our homes, we have all encountered someone who has been less than professional in their dealings with us. My question is then, how do we really move forward? Do we truly accept the apology of others and move on to get the job done?
Based on President Obama's comments and demeanor, it appears that he moved on almost as soon as the comment was made. In order to get the job done, we have to be able to put aside words in favor of concrete suggestions, ideas and solutions.
So let's use this as a growth experience. Share how you turned a disparaging comment or a lack of respect into a finished project.
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
President Obama's School Fire Side Chat
This evening's news headline included concerned parents ready to keep their kids out of school in order to prevent them from being exposed to politics. When did we decide that we no longer wanted our kids to be exposed to politics? They are exposed to us every day. Maybe, it was when the President decided to speak to students and encourage them to do well in school.
Since when did encouraging children to do well in school become a political issue. If President Obama came to my class (via television) to speak about the importance of achieving academically, I would listen. I would have listened to any President of the United States of America. In fact, the fireside chats weren't just for adults.
School districts have been given the choice to determine whether our children will see the message in school. Some who are concerned that they have not seen the message, or that parents may not approve are opting to post it online for later viewing. But the students who need encouragement the most, may not have a computer with which to watch.
Seriously, the "politics" of the situation prohibit the President from saying anything questionable. The "politics" do not however, keep individuals from questioning whether a man that speaks on our behalf to the leaders of the world, can craft a non-political message to our children.
Come on, give me a break!
If you have children, let your school district, board or school know that you trust our nation's President to speak to our children about education on September 8th.
Since when did encouraging children to do well in school become a political issue. If President Obama came to my class (via television) to speak about the importance of achieving academically, I would listen. I would have listened to any President of the United States of America. In fact, the fireside chats weren't just for adults.
School districts have been given the choice to determine whether our children will see the message in school. Some who are concerned that they have not seen the message, or that parents may not approve are opting to post it online for later viewing. But the students who need encouragement the most, may not have a computer with which to watch.
Seriously, the "politics" of the situation prohibit the President from saying anything questionable. The "politics" do not however, keep individuals from questioning whether a man that speaks on our behalf to the leaders of the world, can craft a non-political message to our children.
Come on, give me a break!
If you have children, let your school district, board or school know that you trust our nation's President to speak to our children about education on September 8th.
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
The Definition of Professional
We are told that to be professional is to be appreciated by coworkers, lauded by managers and supported by the organizations that we support for pay. However, it is clear that not all organizations run as professionally as we would like. And that even the most well-trained organizations are only as professional as their corporate culture allows.
And what does professional mean? Is it using proper grammar to transmit an email or is it refraining from shouting across cubicles even when you can see the person right there?
professional - exhibiting a courteous, conscientious, and generally businesslike manner in the workplace or conforming to the technical or ethical standards of a profession.
Based on this definition, maybe you should begin by exhibiting a courteous, conscientious, businesslike manner. Then conform to the technical or ethical standards of your chosen profession. At some point your "professionalism" may have to conform to the standards of those around you.
And if you choose not to conform, you may be in for a very lonely journey.
What do you do when confronted with the choice of being your best or accommodating to your surroundings? I would love to know.
And what does professional mean? Is it using proper grammar to transmit an email or is it refraining from shouting across cubicles even when you can see the person right there?
professional - exhibiting a courteous, conscientious, and generally businesslike manner in the workplace or conforming to the technical or ethical standards of a profession.
Based on this definition, maybe you should begin by exhibiting a courteous, conscientious, businesslike manner. Then conform to the technical or ethical standards of your chosen profession. At some point your "professionalism" may have to conform to the standards of those around you.
And if you choose not to conform, you may be in for a very lonely journey.
What do you do when confronted with the choice of being your best or accommodating to your surroundings? I would love to know.
Thursday, July 16, 2009
Mayor's Meeting Turns into YP Forum
It went something like this...
I slid the paper across the desk, warm from the printer and freshly typed. In the back of my mind I'm thinking, I missed one. Oh, we'll talk about that anyway.
"So I asked my facebook friends what they'd like me to ask you at our meeting...Here are some of the questions they asked."
What service initiative could YPs participate in that would benefit the city?
Mayor Leppert - Mayor's Back To School Event
What can we do about unemployment at Citi Group?
Mayor Leppert -
It's too hot in Texas, what can we do about it?
Mayor Leppert - Shook his head and laughed
What jobs are coming to Dallas?
Mayor Leppert - We are going after companies with the recently published article in the Economist that touts Texas as being more desirable than California.
How much of the bailout money did Dallas receive and where is it being spent?
Mayor Leppert - $50 million
Any plans to raise or lower city taxes?
Mayor Leppert - The goal is to leave them the same.
Free Cowboys tickets for everyone?
Mayor Leppert - No
Senior Citizens and Elderly Programs at the MLK Center?
Mayor Leppert - Available programs should be available on the city website
Clarification: I typed this question too fast and didn't note the concern for cuts to those programs, see below.
How does one go about getting a key to the city?
Mayor Leppert - Keys to the city are extremely limited, but proclamations are more readily available. Visit the city website to submit a request.
The meeting continued. Here is some additional information that you may not know.
I slid the paper across the desk, warm from the printer and freshly typed. In the back of my mind I'm thinking, I missed one. Oh, we'll talk about that anyway.
"So I asked my facebook friends what they'd like me to ask you at our meeting...Here are some of the questions they asked."
What service initiative could YPs participate in that would benefit the city?
Mayor Leppert - Mayor's Back To School Event
What can we do about unemployment at Citi Group?
Mayor Leppert -
It's too hot in Texas, what can we do about it?
Mayor Leppert - Shook his head and laughed
What jobs are coming to Dallas?
Mayor Leppert - We are going after companies with the recently published article in the Economist that touts Texas as being more desirable than California.
How much of the bailout money did Dallas receive and where is it being spent?
Mayor Leppert - $50 million
Any plans to raise or lower city taxes?
Mayor Leppert - The goal is to leave them the same.
Free Cowboys tickets for everyone?
Mayor Leppert - No
Senior Citizens and Elderly Programs at the MLK Center?
Mayor Leppert - Available programs should be available on the city website
Clarification: I typed this question too fast and didn't note the concern for cuts to those programs, see below.
How does one go about getting a key to the city?
Mayor Leppert - Keys to the city are extremely limited, but proclamations are more readily available. Visit the city website to submit a request.
The meeting continued. Here is some additional information that you may not know.
- Ultimately, the city council votes on what gets cut out of the city budget.
- The City Manager will put the budget out on August 10th.
- $130 million needs to be cut.
- A possible source of cuts may be the city's health services. Arthur this could affect the MLK Center programs. Dallas County is responsible for Health services. However, during good years city leaders requested and used funds for programs that could benefit citizens. They did this even when the programs actually fell under the financial jurisdiction of the county. Over the years, the programs grew in size and often in budget due to budget surpluses. As the city looks at ways to cut expenses, those programs may be cut just because they are not the city's responsibility. Sadly, the county may be ill-equipped to take on the financial burden of these programs at this time.
- Paul Quinn was discussed. I walked away feeling as I have before. Those who want to keep Paul Quinn alive and thriving in Dallas must help the university create a strategy for success. That strategy must include organizational and structural strength and consistent financial support. Otherwise the doors will open just long enough for the next tragedy. And don't let me forget to mention that I really like Michael Sorrell.
I left the meeting with a sense that it is up to us as citizens to determine how we can support those things which are important to us. We must speak up, out and work.
The questions you provided prompted the Mayor to agree to a forum with Young Professionals on Saturday, September 12th. Let me know who else you'd like to sit down with and what issues you would like to discuss. To stay on top of forum developments, sign up for my monthly newsletter at www.brandirichard.com.
Special thanks to those of you who posed questions. We may do this more often.YP Global Summer of Service - Let's Get Started
I've accumulated YP service opportunities to post here in support of the President's Summer of Service initiative. To ensure my credibility with you, let me start with what I plan to do to serve others.
Difference Maker: Me
What I'm Doing?: Advocating on behalf of Young Professionals
My goal is to help Young Professionals make their dreams come true. I do this through sharing important information, connections, tools and support with you and then sharing your wonderful contributions with others. Asking the questions you want answered, requesting the assistance that you need, and sharing my adventures along the way is what I do.
How Do I Make A Difference?:
Monthly Advocate Newsletters
Blog
Workshops, Seminars and Forums
Raising Awareness
What's Next?:
Look for my articles and advocacy work with Urban Influence Magazine. www.urbaninfluencemagazine.com
Let me know what you're doing...
Does your job allow you to serve others?
Do you serve the environment through conservation?
Do you feed the homeless or look after a friend's children so he/she can take a class?
Visit the contact me section of my website or contact me via facebook or twitter.
www.brandirichard.com
www.facebook.com/brandirichard
www.twitter.com/brandirichard
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
I Want to Go Green!
I Want to Go Green!
by Brandi Richard
I’ve always wanted to be one of those cool environmentalist-type people who wore only pure cotton clothes with no dye and ate organic legumes. The kind that rode really neat bikes to the store and whose svelte shapely bodies screamed yoga everyday!
But alas it was not to be, I’ve driven two gas-guzzling cars in succession, opted for cheaper “inorganic” vegetables and couldn’t make it to all those yoga classes at the gym. Deep in my spirit, I feel the wheels of change turning. There’s a new clean air engine sweeping through the country side and I am jumping on board.
In honor of my new green participation, I’ve purchased a green leather handbag, a pair of green open-toe pumps and a couple of fab green shirts. (No, not really. I just threw it in for my fashionable friends.) Nonetheless, I’m starting small.
1. Planting a garden. As soon as the landscape man comes back, I will ask him to till the back corner of my yard for a beautiful garden. And then I will continue to participate in the economic recovery by asking him to regularly remove the weeds.
2. When having my clothes dry cleaned, I will recycle the hangers and ask them to keep the plastic bags. Until I can afford to swap out all of my polyester for pure cotton, I still have to go.
3. Recycle all of the carrying bags that I receive at professional conferences and conventions and turn them into reusable grocery bags. Heck, I’m not going to use them anyway.
4. Repurpose all of my excess stuff. By reducing the number of eastern-inspired floor pillows in my den, I can increase the feng shui experience in my den and contribute to the comfort of someone else’s bottom. (Yes, I will have them cleaned first.)
Let's see if I can do better...
http://www.footprintnetwork.org/en/index.php/GFN/page/calculators/
(Thanks Joyce!)
http://www.brandirichard.com/ * http://www.brandirichard.blogspot.com/ * www.facebook.com/brandirichard
by Brandi Richard
I’ve always wanted to be one of those cool environmentalist-type people who wore only pure cotton clothes with no dye and ate organic legumes. The kind that rode really neat bikes to the store and whose svelte shapely bodies screamed yoga everyday!
But alas it was not to be, I’ve driven two gas-guzzling cars in succession, opted for cheaper “inorganic” vegetables and couldn’t make it to all those yoga classes at the gym. Deep in my spirit, I feel the wheels of change turning. There’s a new clean air engine sweeping through the country side and I am jumping on board.
In honor of my new green participation, I’ve purchased a green leather handbag, a pair of green open-toe pumps and a couple of fab green shirts. (No, not really. I just threw it in for my fashionable friends.) Nonetheless, I’m starting small.
1. Planting a garden. As soon as the landscape man comes back, I will ask him to till the back corner of my yard for a beautiful garden. And then I will continue to participate in the economic recovery by asking him to regularly remove the weeds.
2. When having my clothes dry cleaned, I will recycle the hangers and ask them to keep the plastic bags. Until I can afford to swap out all of my polyester for pure cotton, I still have to go.
3. Recycle all of the carrying bags that I receive at professional conferences and conventions and turn them into reusable grocery bags. Heck, I’m not going to use them anyway.
4. Repurpose all of my excess stuff. By reducing the number of eastern-inspired floor pillows in my den, I can increase the feng shui experience in my den and contribute to the comfort of someone else’s bottom. (Yes, I will have them cleaned first.)
Let's see if I can do better...
http://www.footprintnetwork.org/en/index.php/GFN/page/calculators/
(Thanks Joyce!)
http://www.brandirichard.com/ * http://www.brandirichard.blogspot.com/ * www.facebook.com/brandirichard
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
The Starbucks Lady
The full post can be found at http://www.brandirichard.blogspot.com/.
Starbucks is my personal treat, my stress reliever, my comfort when I don't have sense enough to pray, and a way to warm myself against the bitter cold of the fan sitting next to me. The fan's owner takes walks on his breaks and regularly uses the fan to blow the perspiration from his brow and keep wet spots from showing on his shirt...This practice often leads to my nose turning up in disgust as I grab my purse and make a b-line to Starbuck's.
My Starbuck's of choice is located in a grocery store. I love it for the close proximity to work, vanilla bean scones and the Starbuck's lady (Rosemary). She greets me with a "Hey hun, are you having the apple chai fusion today," my new drink of choice after becoming a little bored with the chai tea latte soy (no water). Then she asks about my friend Tiffany. She knows her drink as well. She writes my name on the cup with a happy face and every so often informs me that I've earned a free drink.
The Rosemary takes pride in her job and seems to adore smiling. On this particular visit, I realized that I should have the same mindset. I'm sure that all of her customers aren't nice to her and some days she doesn't feel like coming to work. But when she sees me, she treats me like her most valued customer. So I keep going back for my uplifting cup of chai. Thanks hun!
Starbucks is my personal treat, my stress reliever, my comfort when I don't have sense enough to pray, and a way to warm myself against the bitter cold of the fan sitting next to me. The fan's owner takes walks on his breaks and regularly uses the fan to blow the perspiration from his brow and keep wet spots from showing on his shirt...This practice often leads to my nose turning up in disgust as I grab my purse and make a b-line to Starbuck's.
My Starbuck's of choice is located in a grocery store. I love it for the close proximity to work, vanilla bean scones and the Starbuck's lady (Rosemary). She greets me with a "Hey hun, are you having the apple chai fusion today," my new drink of choice after becoming a little bored with the chai tea latte soy (no water). Then she asks about my friend Tiffany. She knows her drink as well. She writes my name on the cup with a happy face and every so often informs me that I've earned a free drink.
The Rosemary takes pride in her job and seems to adore smiling. On this particular visit, I realized that I should have the same mindset. I'm sure that all of her customers aren't nice to her and some days she doesn't feel like coming to work. But when she sees me, she treats me like her most valued customer. So I keep going back for my uplifting cup of chai. Thanks hun!
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Marquelon Siegler, one of Birmingham's Finest
Marquelon Siegler, president of the Birmingham Urban League Young Professionals Chapter was recognized in this year's Young Professional highlight article in Ebony Magazine (along with Southern Regional VP, Jil Littlejohn).
Marquelon befriended me from my first days in the movement and I am truly excited about his honor.
Marquelon befriended me from my first days in the movement and I am truly excited about his honor.
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
Fahamu Pecou Art Experience
The most engaging and fun art show that I've attended with a huge number of YPs and 80's fans!
The title of the show - Fahamou Pecou is the Sh--! may have drawn the crowd or maybe it was their desire to dress up in 80's fashion. All of the hot pink tights and big hair couldn't compare to Fahamou's Shonuff outfit. But hey, he was the main attraction!
The art included Pecou 's own image in a variety of pop culture poses on huge canvases depicting hip hop legends on magazine covers (Puffy, LL, and the like) sometimes laced with song lyrics. It was unique, fresh and interesting... I even left with an autographed book!
Most interesting was the DJ spinning Thriller, Soul Train line and the best dressed contest.
Artistic response...
Thriller night at the Conduit Gallery...
Watermelon Democracy
Watermelon Democracy
I have been a Banana Republic girl for quite some time. So much so that I even have friends that work there! And how weird was it for me to bump into an articulate young entrepreneur with a twist on the name that I've grown to love so much.
Here is a great introduction from the founder. Yes, and he is definitely a YP. Enjoy! Find him on Facebook in my friends list...
I have been a Banana Republic girl for quite some time. So much so that I even have friends that work there! And how weird was it for me to bump into an articulate young entrepreneur with a twist on the name that I've grown to love so much.
Here is a great introduction from the founder. Yes, and he is definitely a YP. Enjoy! Find him on Facebook in my friends list...
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Marshawn Evans: Skirts in the Boardroom @ SMU
Marshawn Evans: Skirts in the Boardroom @ SMU
On Tuesday, I had the pleasure of attending a book signing for the former Apprentice-hopeful, Marshawn Evans. Beauty queen, attorney and entrepreneur, Marshawn gave the hometown crowd an overview of her new book, Skirts in the Boardroom and a flash of her engagement ring.
The lovely Marshawn, native of Richardson, TX is engaged to be married. And by the smile on she and her fiance's faces, they are extremely happy.
But back to the point, her message was very timely and her delivery was impeccable. 6 months shy of 30, she spoke with the swagger of a seasoned professional. Her book includes fun, yet sage advice for young "skirts" working their way to success.
Her final words to me in my book, "Work your skirt!"
...I just so happened to have a knee-length black one on, so I worked it out to my car and on to my next engagement! :)
On Tuesday, I had the pleasure of attending a book signing for the former Apprentice-hopeful, Marshawn Evans. Beauty queen, attorney and entrepreneur, Marshawn gave the hometown crowd an overview of her new book, Skirts in the Boardroom and a flash of her engagement ring.
The lovely Marshawn, native of Richardson, TX is engaged to be married. And by the smile on she and her fiance's faces, they are extremely happy.
But back to the point, her message was very timely and her delivery was impeccable. 6 months shy of 30, she spoke with the swagger of a seasoned professional. Her book includes fun, yet sage advice for young "skirts" working their way to success.
Her final words to me in my book, "Work your skirt!"
...I just so happened to have a knee-length black one on, so I worked it out to my car and on to my next engagement! :)
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