Urban Views Weekly May 25, 2016

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May 25, 2016 Scholar of the Week - Robert Allen IV Local company committed to providing healthy, clean and safe water Calvin Jones, Jr.

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Going Green is Going Clean: Richmond Native's Clean Water System Builds Safer Communities

Transcript of Urban Views Weekly May 25, 2016

  • May 25, 2016 Scholar of the Week - Robert Allen IV

    Local company committed to providing healthy, clean and safe waterCalvin Jones, Jr.

  • 2 Urban Views Weekly | May 25, 2016 www.UrbanViewsWeekly.com

    VOL. 9, ISSUE 21

    Urban Views Weekly, LLC6802 Paragon Place, Suite 410Richmond, VA 23230Office: (804) 441-6255Fax: (888) 439-2534

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    Nickkol Lewis, Art DirectorVisual Appeal, LLC | visualappealstudio.com

    FUNdraising Good Times

    Civic Beat

    Fundraising matchmaking: solicitors and prospects

    Part one of a two-part series

    Personal solicitation is the backbone of nonprofit fundraising. It is also an area that many organizations and institutions shy away from. Learn how to improve revenue from personal solicitation.

    Because it is impossible to personally solicit every current or prospective donor, personal solicitation is reserved for individuals who can make a major gift. While the definition of a major gift will vary by organization, whats most important is the care and planning that goes into soliciting these gifts. Here are some suggestions followed by things to avoid.

    The fundraising chair or development staff person should meet individually with each fundraising volunteer to learn who they are comfortable soliciting, and the size of the gift they want to ask for. During this confidential meeting you can share names of current major donors and/or prospective major donors. The purpose is to learn who the volunteer may have a relationship with, and who they want to solicit. You can also ask if they know who would be the ideal solicitor for other prospective donors.

    Allow at least a one-year window for the solicitation cycle. This gives each solicitor the time they need to determine the right occasion and place for each solicitation. Several cultivation activities may be required for some prospective donors. For others, a one-time meeting is ideal. It all depends on the relationship between the solicitor and the prospective donor, and the

    relationship between the nonprofit and the donor.

    Before matching major gift prospects with board members, staff or fundraising volunteers, first carefully consider the relationship between the solicitor and the donor. Dont make blanket assignments:

    thats unfair to your volunteers and your donors. Volunteers should be matched with donors based on the relationship between the two, and the willingness of the solicitor. The matches between a solicitor and donor are not always obvious. Invest time in making the right match.

    When contemplating an ask amount, dont assume that a donor who gave at a certain level to a similar organization will want to give at the same level to yours. Dont confuse people you

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    Central Virginia African American Chamber of CommerceEmail: [email protected] Phone: 804-823-7745

    Join the chamber by going online to www.CVAACC.org

    continues to page 11

    ...whats most important is the care

    and planning that goes into soliciting

    these gifts..

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    GPA: 3.25

    College of Interest: Morgan State University or Christopher Newport University

    Major Community Service: Home Again Homeless Shelter

    Strong Interests: Music education, music therapy and ministry

    Favorite Activities: Community service, singing with Zions Boys Gospel Choir

    With a mother who used to sing backup for visiting artists at the Richmond Coliseum; growing up in a musical church; an elementary school teacher who played the saxophone; and, a mentor with a musical family, growing up Robert Allen IV had numerous sources of influences and connections to the musical world. Music has been a rock in my life that has saved me from a detrimental path that the environment I grew up in entices, Robert stated in an essay. He plans to embrace his passion and gifts to spread joy in others lives. Not only does Robert sing tenor, but he has also played the saxophone for nine years and the electric bass for seven years.

    With a love for music, Robert will expand on his knowledge by going to college and pursuing a degree in music education. He looks forward to not only getting the chance to practice with the other performance majors, but also become certified as a teacher. Music is a dying art form in schools that I want to help revive, Robert stated in an essay. I believe that I am destined to pursue music; it is my passion. His top two choices for college are Morgan State University in Baltimore and Christopher Newport University in Newport News. After receiving his bachelors degree, Robert plans to pursue a masters degree in music therapy, because it emphasizes everything that I believe is possible through music. Not only has he felt a calling to music but also through ministry; and, because of this, Robert has plans to pursue a Masters of Divinity sometime in the future.

    While he wants to give back through music education and therapy in the future, Robert already serves the community, which is one of his favorite activities. He does community service at the HomeAgain Homeless Shelter and as a volunteer at Bethlehem Baptist Church where he helps feed the homeless every fourth Saturday. Ive been through a lot in my life and being able to help other people who have

    been through things, especially children, is very dear to my heart, Robert said. He is also a part of the Richmond youth group Zions Boys gospel choir and the Gospel Music Workshop of Americas Richmond chapter. The Gospel Music Workshop encouraged his individuality and has taught him that music is more than just an art style, its more than just a job people have to do, it is a life and it is a story just as painting, acting or even just telling people.

    This year, he played for his schools football team and he is a member of Richmond Public Schools Jazz Band. Among other extracurricular activities, Robert is the Commander of his schools JROTC. While he is not sure if he will join the military, he does plan to stay connected through ROTC in college. He took four dual-enrollment courses at J. Sergeant Reynolds Community College, has been a member of the Mayors Youth Academy for five years and was the vice president of the Future Leaders Council for two years.

    One of the most inspirational people in Roberts life is his grandfather who died from cancer last year. He was the person who bought me my first instrument, he was the one that was always on me about practicing, Robert said. Because His grandfather, the son of a sharecropper, started his own photography business in the past, Robert was able to appreciate both his hard work and constant support of Roberts talents.

    One thing Robert wants to share with the community is that regardless of the things that youve been through, it is up to you for you to decide what your future has for yourself. Robert said that the goals he has set for himself are so he can be inspired to one day give back to the youth of the future. He wants to show them that he did it, and it is just as possible for them, as well.

    Scholar of the Week By Janeal Downs

    Robert Allen IV of Thomas Jefferson High School

    Scholar0of the Week

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    In 1980, Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) was founded by Candace Lightner, a mother whose 13-year-old daughter Cari was killed by a drunk driver. Over the past 35 years, the nonprofit organization has grown into a national movement and political force influencing broad based legislation, as well as social behaviors. It is no longer a socially acceptable norm to drink and drive. Although we know that alcohol-related fatalities are still a public health concern, MADD has effectively raised the level of consciousness and awareness of the dangerous and tragic effects that alcohol related accidents have on victims and families. The organization increased the level of public discourse around the legal age for alcohol consumption, which has gone up and down over the decades but is now established at 21 nationwide. The influence of MADD has caused businesses and community groups to advocate ride sharing and free transportation for patrons who have had too much to drink. Friends have begun to plan ahead for their night-out affairs or celebratory events and chosen a designated driver. The designated driver is the one person within the group who pledges not to drink for the entire evening and to remain sober so that they can be responsible for the safety and transportation of their friends and for the public safety.

    The impact MADD has had on public perception, education and advocacy cannot be understated. It is precisely at this time of year when young people are celebrating the end of the school year with proms, parties and graduation celebrations that we should all take a moment and remind our family and friends to STOP and consider the serious consequences of consuming alcohol and/or drugs and then getting

    behind the wheel of an automobile impaired. There are many options other than driving after consuming alcohol including calling a friend to pick you up. Taking responsibility for our actions and reminding our loved ones to do the same is what an informed and enlightened society does. We are responsible for one another, particularly, when we recognize that lives are at stake.

    Friends do not let friends drive drunk was an excellent and potent ad campaign, and most people remember it even if they never actually saw or heard the commercial on television or the radio.

    What if we could mobilize a movement like MADD to address bullying in schools or racial prejudice, sexual discrimination and homophobia? What if we could take the model of MADD that educated, engaged and activated a nation to take control of an epidemic that was killing people by the thousands and causing irreparable damage and harm to families and communities nationwide, and create an organization that raised consciousness and mobilized communities to advocate for the disenfranchised, oppressed and discriminated against? What if we stopped excusing ourselves by saying theres nothing I can do? No, MADD did not completely eradicate drunk driving, but the effect the organization has had on the level of awareness, concern and knowledge of the

    problem has been undeniable. The collective advocacy and national attention it has created is incredible and certainly underscores the impact that one individual can have when they are driven to take action. Why not BE the designated driver? It may save someones life.

    Up Next Week: What is the New Normal in political discourse?

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    By Dr. TViewPoints

    Tawnya Pettiford-Wates, Ph.D. Founder and Artistic Director

    The Conciliation Project and Associate Professor Virginia Commonwealth University

    [email protected] | www.theconciliationproject.org

    Be A Designated Driver!

    TanyaFree.com/Urban Views Weekly Poll

    The Obama administration told educators around the country that they should allow transgender students to use the bathroom and locker facilities of their chosen gender, saying federal law bars discrimination against such students. Education Secretary John King said no student should ever have to go through the experience of feeling unwelcome at school or on a college campus.

    Whats Your Take? Check out the story and respond to this weeks poll at TanyaFree.com and the Urban Views Weekly FACEBOOK Page. Listen to the Tanya Free and Friends Talk Show Wednesdays @ 2pm on WCLM1450AM streaming LIVE @ TanyaFree.com and BlackTalkRadioNetwork.com. You can now watch us LIVE at TanyaFree.com and ustream.tv

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    If a close friend or family member is getting married, its an honor to be asked to join the wedding party. However, if your budget is tight because youre saving up for a financial goal, paying off bills or have had a recent financial reversal like the loss of a job, you might need to do some thinking before you say yes.

    The average spend by bridesmaids and groomsmen can exceed $1,000 for clothing, wedding and shower gifts, bachelorette or bachelor party expenses and other incidentals. Add any number of factors more expensive dresses, a purchased tuxedo, an upscale gift registry, a destination wedding and suddenly, the cost of standing up for a friends wedding can rival a rent payment, or beyond.

    It can be tough to refuse a friend who wants you to be in his or her wedding planning, saving and bargaining can help you avoid having to turn them down. Here are some

    ideas to potentially lower the wedding partys costs on the key items:

    Clothing. Men luck out a bit in the tuxedo rental department because group discounts are often available for wedding parties. (Note to guys: If youre not going

    to get at least four wearings out of a tux, you may want to forego buying one.) However, for women, the landscape can get trickier youll probably never wear that dress again. So maybe its time for negotiation with the couple. If the dresses or suits dont have to be identical, you can consider second-hand shops and online resale sites that can save significant money. Second-hand can be a big winner as well.

    Gifts. With more pre-wedding events going co-ed, men and women in wedding parties may be buying both shower and wedding gifts for the couple. How can you cut that cost?

    The attendants can split a bigger gift at a lower cost per person. If youre already investing a significant amount of money in the wedding, consider a more sentimental gift that wont cost as much but will still be meaningful. If you want an alternative option

    The Deal

    Joining Your Friends Wedding Party Without Going Broke

    By Nathaniel Sillin

    Continued to pg 10

  • In April 2014, the city of Flint, Michigan changed its water source from the treated water of the Detroit Water and Sewage Department to untreated water from the Flint River. Because officials failed to apply corrosion inhibitors, this new supply of contaminated water made its way through aging pipes, exposing families in Flint to elevated levels of lead. The ultimate result? The Flint Water Crisis. Over 10,000 children to date have been exposed to the contaminated water supply, and now suffer from a host of health issues ranging from Legionnaires disease to learning disabilities. It wasnt until nearly two years later, on January 5, 2016, that Michigan Governor Rick Snyder declared a state of emergency in Flint, and two weeks later, President Barack Obama declared a federal state of emergency, authorizing help from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Department of Homeland Security. But the damage had already been done. Families spent months struggling to survive, bathe, and cook using bottled water, and thousands of children had already felt the irreversible damage caused by lead poisoning.

    On May 4, 2016, President Barack Obama made a much anticipated visit to the city of Flint, his response to the letter written by Little Miss Flint, 8-year-old Amariyanna Copeny. In the face of tough criticism, President Obama shared an important message to the citys residents: leaders, at every level of government, will not rest until every drop of water that flows to [residents] homes is safe to drink, safe to cook with, and safe to bathe in.

    This has been Crystal Pure H2O Systems

    own mission since 1986. Originally known as Durastill, Richmonds own Calvin Jones, Jr. took over his fathers company and dedicated his life to making sure every family has healthy, clean, and safe drinking water. Those three words in the companys mission is what sets Crystal Pure H2O Systems apart from other water systems, specifically the system currently affecting Flint, Michigan.

    Safe drinking water, Calvin Jones, Jr. explains, does not equal clean water.

    Safe drinking water doesnt necessarily mean healthy water, either. Safe water means that at the bare minimum, its OK to consume. Calvin Jones filtration system provides water that offers true health benefits to every family.

    So how does he do it? For families unsure of their waters cleanliness, Jones company takes a trip to the home, tests the current condition of the water, and makes recommendations based on what they find running through their pipes. They test for a wide range of potential

    contaminations and make suggestions for the water filtration system that best meets the familys need. The most vital part is the contamination testing. Jones reveals that many residents, especially in the Prince George and Hopewell areas, have the impression that theyre on city water so theyre safe. What they dont know is that the city only tests for a few contaminants of the thousands found in unsafe drinking water. And thats where his company comes in. Hes found and successfully eliminated many potential threats, especially in the more rural areas where residents use well water.

    Building Crystal Pure H2O Systems into the powerhouse it is today wasnt easy, but

    nothing worthwhile usually is. His father, Calvin Jones, Sr. laid the solid foundation, but when he became ill, his son struggled to fully commit to carrying the torch. Calvin Jr. owned a successful insurance agency, was doing well, and had a vision of his own. His fathers business, while an important part of the Jones legacy, wasnt a priority for Calvin Jr., so he considered closing its doors to focus on his own endeavors and build a legacy of his own. It wasnt until a candid conversation with his pastor that he realized keeping Durastills doors open was importantnot just for the family legacy, but for the African American legacy as well.

    My pastor reminded me that my father wasnt just a business owner, but a black business owner during a time when Blacks werent commonly their own boss. He dedicated his life and put lots of hard work into building Durastill and expanding it from Richmond all the way to New

    6 Urban Views Weekly | May 25, 2016

    Going Green is Going Clean: Richmond Natives Clean Water System Builds Safer Communities

  • Jersey. His pastor insisted that he couldnt get rid of the business and let his legacy fade away. He assured Jones that if he hung in there, people would step in and help expand the business. There was no way he could get rid of it. And sure enough, shortly after becoming the new President/CEO of Durastill and changing the name to Crystal Pure H2O Systems, LLC, the help his pastor spoke of showed up. James Pierce, a member of his church and

    an engineer with over 30 years of experience in the water industry, came on board and is now an official partner. The business has grown in ways unimaginable, and now services families in Virginia, Maryland, DC, New Jersey, Florida, and stretches as far west as California.

    It comes as no surprise that watching the tragedy in Flint unfold has affected Jones both personally and professionally. Water is to our bodies

    what gas and oil are to a car, Jones says.

    We simply cannot function without water. Our bodies are 70% water. Our blood is 83% water. Our brain is 75% water. Our kidneys are 79% water. People can survive without food, but without water, youll die. So to not be able to use the water in your own home is completely devastating. He also notes that this tragedy affects not only the people in Flint, but the city as a whole. No one wants to vacation there, no one can sell their home. Its affecting the citys economy. People [in leadership] have to take responsibility for what theyve caused.

    Jones recalls many instances where hes visited the homes of families who lacked clean water, but has never seen contamination the way hes seen it in Flint. In his 30 years in the water distillation industry, hes never seen so many people affected, and has certainly never seen any case receive national attention. So the national conversation around the government and EPAs responsibility, or lack thereof, for poisoning a city is critical. Not only are the residents of Flint permanently affected, but the paranoia has spread from county to county. [Since Flint], weve gotten calls to come and do more water tests. People continue to call and make sure everything is working properly within their water system. And even though were confident in our product and services, we come out and check their equipment.

    Their fear is justified, Jones says. To see American citizens unable to use the water in their own home is a wake-up call for

    the rest of us. The water system is the most unsuspected source of government terrorism. You cant avoid using your water.

    Jones points out that a common misconception is that households with severely affected water can simply use

    store-bought filters like Brita and similar brands. Unfortunately, its not that simple, and most importantly, isnt cost-effective. Those types of filters arent built to handle the magnitude

    of the problems in the water, Jones says, And youd have to replace them every three months. Crystal Pure H2O Systems offers long-term solutions and ensures the families they service reap the benefits of going green with their effective water distillation system.

    Since the state of emergency declaration, Crystal Pure H2O Systems has had their manufacturers donate filters

    to Flint. The filterswhich use the carbon filtration systemwill remove lead,

    which is most important, but theyll also remove often overlooked contaminants. Calvin Jones, Jr.s commitment to providing healthier, cleaner, and safer drinking water

    starts at his home in Richmond, Virginia, but his mission

    and impact is felt nationwide.

    For more information on how to test the quality of water in your home, call 804-275-3500.

    7 www.UrbanViewsWeekly.com

    Going Green is Going Clean: Richmond Natives Clean Water System Builds Safer Communities

    By Janna M. Hall

    We simply cannot function without water.

    Our bodies are 70% water.

  • 8 Urban Views Weekly | May 25, 2016 www.UrbanViewsWeekly.com

    Serves: 4 Prep time: 20 minutes Cook time: 1 hour 40 minutes

    Chicken: Olive Oil No-Stick Cooking Spray1 tablespoon pure olive oil or light tasting olive oil1/2 teaspoon oregano1 teaspoon minced garlic1 (4 to 5 pound) whole chicken, rinsed with neck and giblets removed Salt and pepperGravy:1/2 cup cold water1/4 cup milk1 (0.87 to 1.2 ounces) package chicken gravy mix 1/2 teaspoon oregano1 teaspoon minced garlic1 1/2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice

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    of thigh is pricked. Transfer chicken to carving board; tent with aluminum foil. Allow to rest 10 minutes. 4. Skim grease from the pan drippings. Place 1/4 cup skimmed pan drippings into small saucepan. Add water, milk, gravy mix, oregano, garlic and lemon juice to pan. Cook, stirring constantly until gravy thickens. 5. Carve chicken. Place on serving platter. Serve with warm lemon-garlic gravy.

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    Watch for our Scholar of the Week segment, Wednesdays at 6:30 PM on

  • 10 Urban Views Weekly | May 25, 2016 www.UrbanViewsWeekly.com

    The Deal from page 5

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    to the typical registry gift, think about contributing to the couples honeymoon fund.

    Travel. Start searching for discounts the minute youre asked to participate, particularly on air and hotel waiting will likely impact your budget. If the wedding is out of town or if overnight stays become a necessity, driving or rooming with other attendants can be a good option. Food costs can be cut by packing food for the drive. If friends live nearby the wedding destination, ask if you can stay with them. Stay close to the proceedings after all, cabs and onsite rental car costs add up, so its wise to minimize travel distances. One last tip check all your travel options one last time before you head to the wedding. Check to see if there are any special deals, price changes or upgrades to your travel or accommodations that you can take advantage of.

    Pre-wedding celebrations. Bachelor and bachelorette parties are notorious for being over-the-top, but that doesnt mean you have to empty your savings to show the couple a good time. For safety and savings, consider locations with plenty of restaurants and bars close together so you can walk from place to place. Home-based parties can be a fun option, too.

    After considering all these options, what if you still need to say no? Dont wait. Be early and be honest with your friend. And offer to help in any way you can.

    Bottom line: Before you say yes to the dress, the tuxedo or the other list of expenses common to the wedding party, do some thinking about alternatives the couple might go for. The right amount of finesse and creativity can preserve your friendship and your budget.

    Nathaniel Sillin directs Visas financial education programs. To follow Practical Money Skills on Twitter: www.twitter.com/PracticalMoney.

  • 11 www.UrbanViewsWeekly.com Urban Views Weekly | May 25, 2016

    As everyone knows, loss of mobility is dramatically life-altering. You will no longer be able to get around on your own, and that is frightening. But heres what you need to know: its not the end of the world. And theres no need to feel limited. The best mobility equipment can help meet your needs. Finding the right health mobility company will go a long way towards helping you get your life back on track.

    First, consult with your doctor. He or she will tell you about your current and future needs. You may also require a prescription for medical equipment. Ask your physician about health mobility companies. You should leave with a list of possible retailers and/or manufacturers.

    Contact your insurance company to inquire about the equipment covered under your plan. They may also provide you with a list of local companies that will accept your insurance.

    Consider your budget. You might qualify for special financing, if you need to make a large purchase. Research whether your equipment might be covered by Medicare or Medicaid. Being aware of your money situation will let you know if you can afford to do business with a company or if you need to look elsewhere.

    When you know which equipment you need, what your insurance covers, and your budget, then you can start looking at particular companies.

    As you talk with each company, pay close attention to how the safety features work. Try

    the equipment and see which product is most comfortable. Remember you will be using it for many hours, so it needs to be convenient and comfortable.

    Learn what you can adjust on the mobility equipment. If the company is doing the adjusting, they should listen to all your needs and concerns.

    Once you understand what equipment is right for you, study the company. Do they have a long track record? Have they been in business for several years? If so, chances are they will be around for years to come.

    Because your equipment is essential for your daily life, great customer service is a must. If the equipment malfunctions, you need to know the company will respond promptly. What is the procedure for maintenance or repair? Where

    do they service equipment -- in their shop or at your home? Inquire if they have loaners available if the equipment cannot be fixed right away.

    Request references from the company. If possible, contact former customers and find out if they are satisfied with the product and service. If your friends or neighbors have mobility issues, you can ask about their experiences. They may suggest trying other companies.

    The Better Business Bureau will have a record of complaints against the company and how those problems were resolved.

    Verify that the company has financing. They may even have plans to help you afford the equipment you need.

    When you are finished, go back to your physician. Tell them about the equipment you are considering. They will be able to affirm that it is the right choice for you. It is always best when the health care company, doctor and patient work together.

    Dont be afraid to ask questions. They are in the business of making sure you are informed and satisfied.

    Acknowledging that you need mobility assistance isnt easy. The best company will help you make the transition as smooth as possible.

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    suspect may have the interest and financial capacity to make a major gift with those you know have the interest and capacity. Dont expect to receive major gifts within a 90-day period (or less!). Its nice if that happens, but dont plan on it.

    We talked with one volunteer solicitor who proudly shared with us that he is a major donor and a major gift solicitor for an organization he believes in. Each year he asks 10 people for $10,000 each. He has been soliciting many of these individuals for years, but each year there are a few new prospective donors. He sets an appointment with each, asking I would like to take you to lunch to share updates on our organization, and to ask for your support. These luncheons are looked forward to, and provide the donor with a consistent personal contact and source of information.

    Next week: More ways to grow your personal solicitation program.

    Copyright 2016 Mel and Pearl Shaw For help growing your fundraising, visit www.saadandshaw.com or call (901) 522-8727.

  • 12 Urban Views Weekly | May 25, 2016 www.UrbanViewsWeekly.com

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