What Do You Want?
“COMBA passing the torch to The HUB, is very personal to me…” Asad Shabazz Page 4
HUB CDC NEWS JULY 2018
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HUB CDC NEWS ï‚· JULY 2018
HUB CDC NEWS ï‚· JULY 2018
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HUB News Staff Asad Z. Shabazz HUB CDC President/CEO Publisher
Managing Editor/ Publishing Consultant Sharon S. Gordon
Contributing Writers Kay Wilson Terron Mitchell Kevin Flemister Sharon S. Gordon Celeste Payne Phil Locke Lisa Freeman Williams Mykayla Bryant
Derek Payne Layout & Design
The HUB News is a monthly publication which is electronically circulated to over 100,000 individuals throughout central Ohio and the United States weekly. The HUB News also distributes 10,000 additional printed copies months. HUB News reserves the right to deny any or all advertisements that go against our standards. We are at no means connected or affiliated with any advertisements. No part of any publication may be reproduced without written permission from the authors. The opinions and articles not written by HUB News staff do not necessarily represent our views. The content and opinions expressed within this publication are those of the author(s) and/or represented companies, and are not necessarily shared by The HUB News Magazine. The author (s) and/or represented companies are solely responsible for the facts and the accuracy of the content of this Press release. The HUB News Magazine reserves the right to reject a press release if, in the view of The HUB News Magazine, , the content of the release is unsuitable for distribution.
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PRESIDENT’S CORNER
What Do You Want? COMBA passing the torch to The HUB, is very personal to me... By Asad Shabazz
Asad Z. Shabazz The HUB CDC President/CEO
I can remember when I first met Frank Watson, it was in the early 1980's. I grew up around his two beautiful daughters and niece...we were all really good friends. As a kid, he seemed to be a big towering man and whenever we would stop by or near the house and he was home he would come to the door and he kind of scared us for real! His voice ensured us that we had better not do anything to bring harm to his children or his niece. And trust and believe me, we didn't do anything EVER! I am speaking for myself of course. As I grew older and begin to understand who Frank was in our community and in the business world, I really started to watch and learn from him. I began to have a deeper understanding and appreciation for the work that he had done. Frank and I use to have this game that we played when I was a kid. I used to go up to him and he would look at me and say "what do you want? " I would reply, "what are you doing today Mr. Frank or Mr. Watson? You're the one!" Thinking of course that I was being a really cool kid. Some of his answers or statements may have hurt a normal kids feelings and I know that I asked far too many questions for his taste. But Frank would answer every one of them, and my feelings were never hurt. In fact,
this was like fuel to my fire. As I grew older I realized that he would do and say things to me to test me and to see if I was really serious about what I said I wanted. Frank was a very wise man and I valued his opinion. I would often stop in to talk over ideas and projects as well as just go in and check to see how he along with the other staff at COMBA were doing. We would still begin our conversations by him asking me what I wanted, the difference now is that I would give him a definitive answer. We never stopped playing the "what do you want" game. Our friendship went on for years at the end of the day when he passed away, it really dawned on me how that game really impacted my life tremendously. Frank became one of my mentors in life, a very quiet and almost accidental one. But we all know in God there are no coincidence, happenstance nor accidents. This is why it is such an honor to me that The HUB has the opportunity to continue his life's vision. Always keeping in touch and continuing my long-standing relationship with COMBA's Director Kim Knights, when I found out that they were going to be closing I felt that it was important to go to her and find out what were her plans and what was going to happen to the Continued on Pg 12
HUB CDC NEWS  JULY 2018
EDITOR’S PAGE
Email Marketing: Affordable Internet Marketing Technique
Email marketing is labeled as a killer method when it comes to effective low-cost Internet marketing endeavors. This is because it is the most widelyused and has the best reputation in bringing targeted traffic to websites. It is used to stay in touch with your customers or prospective customers, send out invitations, or make special offers.
list will not have any valuable use for.
2. Make your email list open it. Your email might get lost together with the hundreds of emails that inbox owners are confronted with everyday. Improve your subject line by using extra white space creatively, adding text symbols, starting each word with a capiIt's as easy as writing an etal letter, asking compelling mail that may be in a form of a questions, not making any unnewsletter or a plain anbelievable claims, and not usnouncement, and sending that ing the word FREE. to as many targeted recipients as possible. However, there's 3. Keep it real. an ideal way of going about it. Not including any too good to Email marketing is not just be true statements is not only about writing any email that applicable to your subject line. you will be sending to anyYour email content must never body. To clarify that, here are embody any promise your some simple tips in doing business can't keep. Make your email marketing the best way offer genuinely of value to possible. your recipients.
counts that are lower than your profit. It will defeat the purpose of this email marketing effort. 5. Make it eventful. It's not about contradicting the advice that you should keep an email short and sweet. This tip is on including seminars, conferences and other events in your email. Businesses that require training benefit much from this method. With these RSVP-requiring emails, repetition is important. Just make sure that an ample interval is considered before sending out a reminder email.
1. Join the "Can Spam" campaign. Email marketing is not at any rate tantamount to spamming. You are not supposed to send information that your email
6. Post news. Sending newsletters and postcards provides useful information for your subscribers. These are the best forms of reaching out to your customers or prospects. You should keep the information short, simple and direct to the point for this 4. Don't go too low. If you inform your customers feat to be effective. regarding discounts, minimal With these simple ways of discounts are not that effective going about your email marcompared with substantial dis- keting endeavor, your business will prosper in no time. counts. But never offer dis-
HUB CDC NEWS JULY 2018
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POINTERS FOR PARENTS & TEACHERS
Step Up Your Kids’ STEM Skills
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sound STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) education can be a good way for many students today to plan and prepare for great careers tomorrow.
Numbers To Know Consider these stats and facts: 1. In the last 10 years, 3 million American jobs have gone unfilled due to a lack of basic STEM skills. 2. Between 2017 and 2027, the number of STEM jobs will grow 13 percent, compared to 9 percent for non-STEM jobs—with positions in computing, engineering, and advanced manufacturing leading the way. 3. Out of 100 STEM occupations, 93 percent had wages above the national average. The national average for STEM job annual salaries is $87,570, while the national average for non-STEM occupations sits at roughly half—$45,700. Fortunately, parents, teachers and others have some handy ways to help kids get into STEM subjects and get out of them what they need.
What Parents Can Do For example, parents can make STEM a part of everyday life. Here’s how: • Cooking can be a delicious way to teach about math, chemistry and botany. • Take your kids to the bank with you and explain what’s been called the “magic of compound interest.” • At the supermarket, show your kids how to do calculations and estimates and point out the fractions, prices and percentages. • While enjoying sports, demonstrate all the math and physics involved in playing and scoring in a game. • Take your kids on trips to science museums and zoos. • Watch science and technology shows on TV. Play with STEM toys and games—electronics, blocks, paper dolls—with your kids. 6
What Schools Can Do Many teachers are turning to a cuttingedge, digital, K−8 resource designed to engage kids and bring STEM to life. Called Discovery Education STEM Connect, this resource is built on a 4C (critical thinking, communication, collaboration and creativity) framework that uses relatable scenarios to connect students to real-world challenges. With each unit, students gain valuable critical-thinking and solution-seeking skills for life. The challenges posed to students progress from grades K−8. Younger students are faced with more personal, local issues. Middle school students are pushed to solve more complex, global challenges. Students are also asked to personalize solutions to fit community and local needs. Discovery Education STEM Connect’s Career Connections provide students with opportunities to learn about diverse STEM careers in context and connect the skills they are using to real work happening around the world. Discovery Education STEM Connect also develops and strengthens literacy skills through informational reading passages infused with fictional stories and characters.
Educator’s Advice “Discovery Education STEM Connect empowers my students to become ‘solution seekers’ engaged in solving important real-world challenges,” explained Frances Snyder, a Florida public school teacher. “This resource’s relevance, as well as its ability to support students as they develop the important skills they need to reach their fullest potential, makes it the ideal interdisciplinary STEM resource for today’s classrooms.” For more information about Discovery Education STEM Connect, call (800) 323-9084 or visit www.discoveryeducation.com. HUB CDC NEWS JULY 2018
BUSINESS TRENDS
Survey Finds That Employers, Employees Disagree On The Importance Of Professional Soft Skills (NAPS)—With the unemployment rate dropping below 4 percent for the first time since 20001, higher education could help those looking to take advantage of record employment.2 According to a national survey by University of Phoenix, only 38 percent of U.S. working adults felt
most necessary skills for employees to possess. “The survey found that employers emphasized the need for professional soft skills,” said Kevin Wilhelmsen, program dean, University of Phoenix School of Business. “Employers are looking for employees who are competent in people
Employers are looking for workers with skills in management, critical thinking and communication. very satisfied with their current professional position and 45 percent said that they need a college degree in order to excel.3 While IT and health care are two of the fastest-growing occupations, creating a demand for those competencies,4 the survey found that professional soft skills were cited as some of the
HUB CDC NEWS JULY 2018
management (56 percent), critical thinking (52 percent) and communication (50 percent).”5 Despite employers valuing professional soft skills, the survey found that most employees felt that those skills had the least impact on their ability to enhance their career. When asked what skills they found most important, only 31 percent said
people management, 29 percent said strategic thinking and 22 percent said communication.6 “People looking to enhance their career through education must determine which program could help them develop or improve professional soft skills while remaining relevant to their career path,” Wilhelmsen said. “Many of these skills can be found in the MBA, which often focuses more on practical knowledge rather than research.”7 Wilhelmsen said that the MBA could help create well-rounded professionals with the skills for multiple industries. To further this point, Monster.com published a series of articles explaining how the MBA has transformed the job market. Monster suggests that there is an increased demand for MBA candidates because of the critical thinking skills they possess that bring an analytical approach to improve business processes.8 “To help provide the necessary soft skills, the MBA program must focus on the competencies that provide a well-rounded, critical thinking professional, in addition to discipline-specific content such as marketing, economics or finance,” he said. “If designed to hit these marks, the MBA can help students build these skills as they progress through rigorous discipline-specific content and integrative experiences.”
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Passing The Torch! 8
HUB CDC NEWS ï‚· JULY 2018
INTERVIEW WITH KIM KNIGHTS President, Central Ohio Minority Business Association
Passing The Torch! By: Sharon S. Gordon The Central Ohio Minority Business Association (COMBA), a private, not for profit agency, has been providing business and economic development and educational services to the Ohio minority and disadvantaged business community since 1978. COMBA provided entrepreneurial development and support to minority, female, socially and economically disadvantaged business owners. Under the leadership of Kim Knights COMBA helped over ----- businesses and entrepreneurs gain access to contracts, hire new employees and grow their businesses using COMBA’s classes, workshops and seminars. As her time at COMBA comes to a close, I had the opportunity to connect with Kim Knights former Director of COMBA to see what is on the horizon for the very intelligent and talented lady. Sharon: COMBA has such a rich legacy of service to our community and you could have chosen to just dissolve the organization. Why do you feel it is important to pass the torch, and why the HUB? Kim: Honestly, initially we were going to just dissolve the organization. But, after a combination of insightful conversation, reading and a lot of individual thought we decided otherwise. We discussed Partner OrHUB CDC NEWS JULY 2018
ganizations that have invested into the same Community providing similar services. We thought about the Mission/ Vision/ Concept and overall services and expertise of the HUB CDC and decided that they would be a great Organizational Partner to pass on whatever intellectual resources and expertise possible to be an add to their efforts. Sharon: What are you most proud of in reference to the legacy of COMBA and the great works accomplished by the organization? Kim: WOW, that’s a difficult question. I guess that overall I’m grateful that we had a
TEAM that remained focused on providing education, resources and support to the minority and small business community at large. With knowledge and access to resources a person can determine if they are willing to put forth the tremendous amount of effort and sacrifice required to start, grow and stabilize a business. That's what we tried to
provide and support. Sharon: What do you feel still needs to be done in the community as it pertains to minority business development?
Kim: I believe that a version of the overall services that COMBA and Partnering Organizations have provided will always be needed. But, even though COMBA and most of the business and economic development agencies have put forth tremendous effort and made significant stride in overcoming, there still exist at least two major needs in our business community. One of the major needs that still exist is overall financial stability. And that requires a number of changes both within the mindset of business Owners and of those who have access to financial resources. Not just banks and other financial institutions or organizations; but also private sector businesses. Another thing that we still need See the next page ►
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to see more of are more businesses partnering with one another, to leverage financial resources and expertise, in order to increase capacity and gain access to more business opportunities. Sharon: What are the 3 things that you want to be sure that the HUB continues or develops? Kim: 1: One-on-one business assessments, advise, technical assistance and mentoring: Business owners need advice, technical assistance, sometimes hand-holding and encouragement. It takes a village to raise a child; it also takes that same village to support the growth or raise a business. 2. Multi-level training for construction companies enabling them to increase their capacity to gain access to more projects. We love that part of the Mission of The HUB CDC in to increase employment opportunities because we need to have more individuals seeking employment within the construction industry as well. 3. I know that they will, but I’ll say it anyway – stay true to the Mission and Vision. Often a Mission and Vision may transform into another. But at the root it is still the same. Be mindful of those come along in the form of a Partner. Some come to enhance and some come to take over. Don’t be suspicious, but be discerning! Sharon: Do you intend to have a business relationship with Minority Business Development? Kim: Yes, I love Minority Continued on next page
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HUB CDC NEWS JULY 2018
Business Development. I love to see the light bulb go off and I love seeing the pieces come together for the desired end result. It’s very surreal to say that I won't be with COMBA; but I will still be out there doing what I have always loved to do! Sharon: What lasting impression do you want to leave and what is next for Kim Knights? Kim: Hmmmmm… At the end of the day, I just hope that I was able to provide some insight, knowledge or assistance that helped those that I came in contact with. They definitely have for me!
Well, I have relationship with a few businesses. I’m involved with SRD & Associates, LLC a design & build general construction company. I'm a Partner of Indus Solutions, LLC providing business development for those who seek to do business with India. And I'm the Owner of Your Solutions Group, LLC a business development, growth and operations management company. And we'll see what else will be a part of this next phase of my life.
ECDI’s “Capital For Construction” Program addresses the financing gaps in Central Ohio for minority-owned subcontractors.
Contact Jesse Mark for more information: jmark@ecdi.org ~ (614) 933-4185 HUB CDC NEWS JULY 2018
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President’s Corner Continued from Page 4
organization. After several meetings and conversations, Kim decided to entrust the resources and programs of COMBA to The HUB. I am honored that she believes that The HUB is a great position to provide the services once placed with COMBA and that I share the same passion that Frank had for our community and minority business empowerment. This transition is bittersweet for me. I lost a great mentor and friend but at the same time, I can be there to take on at least some of the work he began and feel proud about that because I did learn so much from this very beautiful brother. I truly believe that key aspects of The HUB would not be in place if it were not for Mr. Frank Watson, Kim Knights, Ronda Barber, Avery Frost (his two daughters) and their staff, for helping myself and The HUB to grow throughout the years. I am overwhelmed with gratitude that we have been chosen to take on such a monumental task and to fill some big shoes, and Frank did have big feet, both figuratively and literally. I thank God for Frank holding up the blood-stained banner all the way till he died. Thank you, Frank. May God bless your soul. ♥
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HUB CDC NEWS JULY 2018
HUB CDC RESIDING MEMBERS A Blessed Palate Catering W. Cobre' Gordon 614-928-1879
DPI Graphic Design Derek Payne 614-622-7599
A Brand New Attitude, Inc. Linda Muhammad 614-313-1143
HUB Communications - HUB Radio Kevin Flemister 614-403-7403
Agape Family International Pastor Dawson 614-592-5546
Love Deliverance Apostolic Ministries Pastor Valerie Johnson 614-300-8720
Bilal Community Outreach Adbulsalaam Hadiya 614-732-7237 Bilal Ibn Rabah Islamic Center 614-354-4142 Royal Properties Ed Willis 614-859-7542 Kendricks Trucking LeRoy Kendricks 614-404-7411 Dal Tex Transportaion Michelle McCall 614-772-4365 Davis Laser Products John Davis 614-701-0828
Mykayla B. Branding Mykayla Bryant 614-330-4976
ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF President / Founder Asad Shabazz Vice President / Operations Manager Sharon S. Gordon Support Services Terry Byrd Media Director Kevin Flemister Director of Social Media Mykayla Bryant
Nehemiah House of Refuge Terry Byrd 614-824-1338
Director of Workforce Development Lisa Freeman Williamson
Primary Care Solutions Tanesha Slater 419-672-0143
Directors of Employment Services Lance Muhammad Beverly Baylor
Total Network Solutions Terron Mitchell 614-207-2492
Director of Business Services Phil Locke
Urban Trendsetters, LLC Sharon S. Gordon 614-852-3213 WTF (Weigh The Facts) Lisa Freeman Williamson 614-423-9831
Education Coordinator Dottie Henderson Director of Outreach and Marketing Sharon S. Gordon
Men@Nehemiah7.org ww.Nehemiah7.org HUB CDC NEWS JULY 2018
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HUB CDC NEWS ï‚· JULY 2018
Mission The Mission of the HUB Community Development Corporation (the HUB) is to be the premier social enterprise for the advancement of: Employment Small business development, and Education Vision We seek to establish a community-based economy, impact the quality of life for families, shape public policy, and influence investments in underserved neighborhoods. Employment… The HUB prepares our clients for the workforce and link them with viable jobopportunities. We provide employ-ment training and offer wrap-around services as part of our case management process. Small Business… Our program is designed to em-power small businesses for long-term success. The HUB provides an administrative back office and sup-port sys-
About The HUB tem, to help grow their operations. We foster connections for business opportunities in the private marketplace, with major corpora-tions, and government agencies. It is our ultimate objective to impact their bottom line, grow a broad-based economic system, and help entrepreneurs become good com-munity partners. The HUB features a small business incubator which offers physical and virtual office space, meeting and training rooms for rent, and shared resources. Education The HUB provides educational & training opportunities on and off site. In collaboration with our training partners, we assist individuals and small businesses with specialized
training, and connect them with institutions of higher learning. We seek to prepare our clients for all aspects of the workforce, from employment to small business development. The HUB believes that people cannot be successful without the right education and training opportunities to do so. Concept The HUB CDC is a Non-profit workforce and economic development enterprise located in a 20,000 square foot facility on the Near East side of Columbus, Ohio. We have established a centralized operations center for the underserved and impoverished, offering a professional yet unorthodox approach to wrap-around social services. With a convenient location, our clients and the general public have easy access to programs and services that are designed to help improve an individual’s ability to achieve gainful employment and self-sufficiency. We offer employment services, counseling/mentorship, networking, and education. ·
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HUB CDC NEWS ï‚· JULY 2018