Experts Views on the Values in Business Plans

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I chose to consider the values of business plans from experts Paul Heyworth and Alan Hughes.

Paul Heyworth is the Director of Business Development at Orivia Group Limited in the United Kingdom. This company provides assistance with Enterprise startup and growth, skills development, access to finance and commercial property rental. It also provides a strategic planning service, executive coaching and young peoples leadership development. 

Initially, I chose to view Heyworth’s expertise on business plans after reading an article about him in Lancashire Business Review.  In this article he explained,  “The value of creating a business plan and how it will have many more uses beyond impressing potential investors.”

I am interested in Heyworth because he has competence in business areas such as management and development. His current and previous position as the Director of Business Development at Orivia Group Limited for nine years, and former Business Manager role of 32 years at Barclays Bank PLC is appealing to me. I too desire to become an expert of Business, therefore, Heyworth’s resume and business intellect attracts my interests.  

From research, I have discovered, that Heyworth’s position as Director of Business Development at Orivia Group Limited (UK) is not one to be taken lightly. His present roles and techniques include but are not limited to intelligence gathering on customers and competitors, follow-up sales activity, assessments of target marketplaces and marketing prospects, generating leads for possible sales, formal proposal writing and business model design. 

Heyworth mentioned some of the tasks of a Business developer to Zimbio.com. He said, “Business development involves evaluating a business and then realizing its full potential, using such tools as marketing, sales, information management and customer service. These tasks are carried out by business development managers. This is my role.”

In Lancashire Business View article entitled, “Expert view: do I need a business plan” it describes the business analysis of Heyworth.  A pivotal quote he said in the article, “The importance of business planning cannot be overlooked even if your business is not seeking finance.” I agree with this statement because business plans are prepared for more than just financial matters.
Heyworth said, “A plan will help you to put your ambitions for the business down on paper so that you have a clear vision. Then you can monitor your progress.” Reading this quote was beneficial, I had never thought of business plans in that way. Primarily, I’ve been focused on the development of a plan for my business in regards to financial purposes. However, I’ve never questioned, ‘What would I need a business plan for if not for money?’.

 Reading the article on Heyworth’s business plan strategies opened my eyes to a whole new realm of business.  Heyworth stated, “Firstly, it is very useful to write one (A business plan) even if for nobody else’s benefit but your own. A business plan will help you make sense of a number of key factors.” My assumption is that this statement is factual.  Because it is something I have witnessed during my business planning compositions.  

Writing down my plans has given me the ability to discover answers to questions Heyworth presented, “Who am I and what are my skills and background? What is my product or service? Where is my target market and how will I reach them? Who is my competition? What are my strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats?” In addition he said, “A business plan must also include a breakdown of the financials. How much money do I need to survive (bills, food, mortgage)? How much are the running costs of this business (rent, stock, utilities, marketing)? What is my monthly income and expenditure likely to be?” 

Alan Hughes is the second business expert I analyzed. I chose to review his expertise not only because we share the same last name, but because of his credibility. As the Multimedia Editorial Director for Black Enterprise, Hughes has interviewed and analyzed numerous businesses and their owners. Below Hughes’ Bio from Black Enterprise is indicated,
“In this role he is responsible for overseeing business, entrepreneurship and technology content for the brand’s print, online, broadcast and events platforms. An award-winning journalist with nearly a quarter century in the field, he’s a vital member of the editorial management team.”

Hughes also directs the editorial coverage of the BLACK ENTERPRISE June issue, which ranks America’s largest black-owned businesses and examines the growth and impact of those BE 100s companies each year. He also oversees content and provides direction for the Black Enterprise Entrepreneurs Conference + Expo, the company’s flagship event that draws thousands of business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs annually. He also regularly spearheads all international business coverage pertaining – including opportunities and global trends. 

A quote from Hughes that I enjoyed reading was stated in a Black Enterprise article, “Let’s face it, you’re in business because you want to make money and you want to do it your way. But whether you’re just starting out with your business, or you feel like you need to reassess the company’s goals and direction, there are strategic steps you can take to make sure you position yourself to make moves–smart ones. This is what a business plan is for.” I interpret this as Hughes’ way of saying to business folk, “Be flexible, yet never lose sight of your central goal.” People in business must consider adding flexibility to their business model, but must has a clear concise view of the primary goal and desired outcome for success. 

From reading both experts analysis on the values of business plans, I can see that critical & key components that investors are looking for in a plan are analysis of business full potential, marketing, sales, information management, customer service, and projected financial loss and gain. These factors would be considered key investors want an outline of a businesses projected development and the techniques that will be utilized to assure economic enterprise growth. Investors want to know that their investments will profit their finances, so a business plan is essential for financial sponsorship. 

The value of a business plan goes outside a written document with the archetypal substance: vision, purpose, sale and marketing plans, operation models and cash flow projections. The actual worth is in the development the business goes through to get the plan. The analysis, evaluation, and measurement of the core workings of the business that result in the plan is the physical appeal. Anyone can have a document called a “business plan” but successful businesses understand that the “plan” must be frequently examined and changed to reflect the strategy of the business.

References:

http://www.beinkandescent.com/tips-for-entrepreneurs/205/muhammad-yunus-tips-for-entrepreneurs

http://www.blackenterprise.com/author/Alan/

http://www.blackenterprise.com/sbu/experts/

http://www.lancashirebusinessview.co.uk/news-details.htm?news_id=212

uk.linkedin.com/pub/paul-heyworth/19/74b/a61

http://www.zimbio.com/Business+Development+Analysts/articles/6/Responsibilities+Business+Development+Manager

Los Rakas Review

 I first met Los Rakas, the Hip-Hop/Reggae/Reggaeton/Dancehall/Spanish music duo comprised of Panamanian cousins Raka Rich + Raka Dun, on the streets of San Francisco, CA in 2009. I was walking from a club late one night, and these girls came up with a Los Rakas promotional flier. I asked these girls, “Are they good?” The girls said, “Yes. They are so good and watch in a few years they’ll be even better.”  

Less than a minute later I saw these two beautiful young men trailing around the corner with fliers in their hands. I assumed, this was the Los Rakas that the girls were promoting. Both of the guys have gorgeous skin, hair, and a stylish taste in attire.  One is the color of delicious milk chocolate and the other is caramel candy complexion. They both exude radiance, especially when they smile. I knew that once a shook their hand and heard them speak, that their personality and passion was genuinely perfect. Even though I had never heard their music, the way they carried themselves made me want to buy a CD right away but it wasn’t out yet. But since our first encounter I have been a fan.

It’s 2012 now and it’s been three years since a met Los Rakas. I have seen them grow from boys to men. They started off as a duo underneath the radar, now they’re rising stars whom everyone is starting to take notice of.

From the instant they take the stage, it is obvious why Los Rakas are creating a buzz worthy name for themselves. They are changing the dynamics of the hiphop scene by fusing blends of reggaeton, reggae, dancehall, Spanish to their music within each and every set. Their energy is high and their lyrics are captivating. Their multi-dimensional music presence has allowed them to create and be a part of a league of their own which is appealing to everyone. Their Spanish and English infused lyrics give them an advantage, and opens up their consumer audience even more.

What I have personally observed is that though their status has changed, and they’ve become more popular…their personality and passion for their music and people have not change. They continue to represent Panama byway of Oakland, CA and are proud Black Latinos. They are continuously promoting positively energized vibes and music within each and every song they create.  Los Rakas is definitely a duo to listen to and keep watch on because they are headed beyond the stars.

Los Rakas Music site: http://www.losrakas.bandzoogle.com/fr_aboutus.cfm

Check out Los Rakas Music Videos here: http://www.youtube.com/user/LosRakasPanaBay 

 

 

Oblivion of The Seshen

The greatest thing about music is that you can create your own sound, and make it your own. You can transform it, revolutionize it, and change the world with your musical vibrations. For a few months, I’ve been obsessed with Bay- Area based band, The Seshen, and their self-titled album. They not only redefine gender roles, but their union ultimately defies assumed race relations, as their melodic tunes ultimately destroy the norms of intellectual awareness. They carefully compose verses and choruses to be sung over sweet compositions which their union creates. 

Their debut video “Oblivion” is an obvious interpretation of societal reform within the presence of today. The video is a blend of eye-catching illustrations, along with conscious lyrics that awaken the mind to a different perception. What makes the audiovisual very much so appealing is that, each of the 7 band members has their shining moment. There is no seclusion upon band mates; it is as if they consider themselves teammates whom work together to shape music into their view of perfection. 

Lalin St. Juste’s delicate vocals are the highlight of the song. She sings effortlessly, yet powerfully amongst heavy guitar strings, drums, and piano keys. Her voice is that of an unearthly being, such as an angel, who sings carols that advise people of what is to come.

Below is a their debut video, Oblivion. The band started a Kick-starter fundraiser in order to fund the video. The video is of high quality and sound. It really does capture and define the essence this group exudes.  It flawlessly encapsulates the song's pitch while enhancing another diverse creative coating to it.  I always have to play this video more than once and the beginning lyrics are always in my head…

“The first few words I cant get out of my head

“There will come a day
when the lullabies in your landslide
will begin to give way
to a darker place
Will you stay or will go into oblivion?”

Check it out for yourself.

The spirit of The Seshen is that of humbleness, gratitude, adoration, and rebellion. I expect them to continuously thirst for knowledge as they flourish and grow in wisdom. Their album is a sincere allegiance to all beings to be encouraged, acknowledge their higher selves,  and be happy for feeling. Their harmony comes with inimitable barefaced alarms going off through song. I enjoyed listening to their debut album, The Seshen, and look forward to the whole world knowing of this bands innate talent. Because their lyrics and melodies are historical artifacts hidden within songs sung by hidden stars ready to shine.

Running a Relationship

As a student-athlete it is sometimes hard not to become tiresome from the many strains of trying to control academia and athleticism.

But these two Clark Atlanta University (CAU) athletes have discovered a way to make it capable to equalize the pressure of class, practice, and games, while still being able have a successful relationship with their partners.

Aaron Abraham, a senior education major from Los Angeles, CA and distance runner for CAU’s  team track and field team, and Amanda Eillis , a junior psychology  major from New York, New York  and distance runner for the Lady Panthers cross country team, share a mutual love for running,  furthermore, they have love for each other.

Abraham and Eillis said they have been dating for two years. They met during Spring 2010 at a mutual friend’s house party. They were attracted to each other instantly and have been close ever since.

"I met at Amanda at one of our mutual friends house in the spring of 2010. ” said Abraham. "We flirted and talked with each other, but I didn’t know that we’d end up being more than friends. However, I was shocked when we ended up talking to each other everyday since that night. Now we’re two years down the line and we still enjoy talking to each other like the first time we were introduced.”

Eillis said she had to go to NYC for the summer but she and Abraham often conversed over the phone or flew across the states to see each other. They traveled a long ways from home just to be together considering, Abraham is from Los Angeles and Eillis is from NYC.

During that first summer together the couple began to acknowledge the fact that they weren’t interested in anyone else but each other. After a few months of “Getting to know each other” the couple said they realized they did not want to be with anyone else, and soon after formally became boyfriend and girlfriend.

"We kept in touch when we separated during summer break and hopped on those long flights to see each other,” said Eillis. “We weren’t seeing anyone when we first met, and after we met we only saw each other.”

"We’re both serious athletes and students, so over the summer break we decided to be seriously committed to each other,” she said.

The primary aspect that brought the couple together was running and other mutual interests.

Abraham said he has always had an attraction to women in sports. Therefore the fact that Eillis is not only an athlete, but a distance runner like himself turned him on to her even more.

"The fact Amanda is a runner made me attracted to her even more,” said Abraham. “I have always wanted to be with an athletic woman but never have. I think I scored big time because I not only got a sporty woman but a distance runner like myself.”

Eillis said that Abraham’s athleticism attracted her to him also.

"I was attracted to him not only because he is an honest person like myself but he’s an athlete too,” Eillis said. “I’m mostly into wearing athletic wear and he appreciates that unlike most men who want a girlie girl in a dress and heels.”

Eillis said she likes that she and Abraham are both involved in running because he can relate to her challenges as a runner.

" I enjoy the fact that we can both discuss the trials and tribulations we go through on and off the field. Being a runner is no joke, especially a long distance runner. Usually no one knows what a runner goes through unless he or she is really involved with the sport. He doesn’t have to try to assume r figure out what I am talking about because he knows from first hand experience,” she said.

In spite of the difficulties in being a student and an athlete, Eillis said her relationship with Abraham is the best she has every experienced. In past relationships she had to explain everything, but because she and Abraham share common interests and experience, their relationship runs smoothly.

"I’ve been involved with men who didn’t know the first thing about being a student athlete,” said Eillis. “Sports and school have been my life since I was a little girl. The pressure has now elevated because I am have to perform a certain way to keep my athletic scholarship and pay for school. Aaron understands this completely because he is an athlete himself. So I don’t have to have to spend useless amounts of time explaining myself about the pressures that come with being a student and an athlete. He just automatically knows how it is and understands me completely. There’s no hassle with him like there was with others.”

Abraham agrees with Eillis.

"I don’t have to explain anything to Amanda," he said. "She already knows what I am going through and I already know what she is going through when it comes to academia and athletics. We also come from parallel upbringings so we appreciate each other more.”

Abraham said he likes Eillis just the way she is, but what he loves about her the most is that she has an honest character.

Abraham said that he can see how cross-country can take a toll on her, but he tries to add extra positivity to help her ease her strains.

"Running long distance can wear me out, especially during the hot Atlanta sun. they don’t call it Hotlanta for no reason and running in the sun daily for miles and miles on end is a killer,” said Eillis.

“Sometimes I take my frustrations out on him when I have a horrible day, but he doesn’t really pay much attention to it because we’re both in the same boat. His positive attitude puts my soul at ease,” said Eillis.

Abraham said he and Eillis' participation sports does not hurt their relationship because they understand each other and most of their practices and games are around the same time and days.

"I think track and field season last a little longer  than her cross-country seasonbut not that much longer," Abraham said. "Regardless, we have something special because we have good communication and understanding.”

Eillis said when her and Abraham’s seasons start, they have to balance their time with each other.

".We just have to balance our time between school, practice and games,” said Eillis. “Good thing we’re used to balance being that we have been student-athletes for most of our lives so it all works out.”

Abraham said he loves the way that Eillis keeps the demands of her everyday life stable, while managing to keep a big smile on his face.

"I've been juggling school and running since I was five years old,” said Eillis. “So I am a veteran when it comes to balance.  Academics and athletics go hand and hand in my world and I don’t think that I’ll ever separate them. However, I will always take the time to make my man happy.”

Eillis said of Abraham, " He has been through so much in his life and is going through a lot now. But he makes me laugh everyday even during the lowest times. He is a keeper in my book.”

Abraham and Eillis both have a grade point average of over 3.0.  The couple seem to both be amazing people whom have learned to balance their cards right while loving and supporting each other with their academic and athletic endeavors.

Soccer Runs

When it comes soccer, sometimes having a good kick isn’t enough to be great player.  You have to know how to do it all, such as combine techniques from other sports into your plays on the field, like knowing how to run without end.

That’s exactly what Cadiz, Kentucky, Trigg County High School, LaNita Ephriam, a senior Los Angeles, CA  native does. She runs and never stops until she reaches her goal, and even then she keeps going.

“It’s hard to get people to acknowledge that soccer is more that just kicking the ball mindlessly,” Hughes said. “We do a lot out there than just dribble… we run our butts off for 90 minutes or more nonstop.”

Ephriam is currently a 2012 All-State High School Gold Medalist in the 400m dash, 4 x 400m relay, 200m dash, 8 x 200m relay, and holds silver titles in High Jump.  She also is a well traveled and All-State Soccer gold medalist.

Though soccer is her favorite sport, track and field set the foundation for her high achievements in the game.

“Track and field definitely made me a better soccer player,” Ephriam said. “I am glad that  I have build up my endurance and strength through running. Now that I have my running rhythm covered, I can concentrate on developing and mastering my skills and techniques with the soccer ball.”

Ephriam said that she knew that being good at track and field would give her an advantage when playing other sports.

“If you know how to run really fast, especially for long periods of time… you can easily  learn how to kick, dribble, throw, and catch, etc , at  the same time,” said Ephriam. “ I’ve received a lot of medals in volleyball, basketball, tennis, and soccer because of my track and field background. I know that being able to run fast, has given me an advantage. “

Ephriam’s  mother,  Patrice Ephraim, is a former collegiate track runner  put her in track and field when she was two years old, and since then she has been running.

Ephriam said, “ Even though practices are long and hard, I am glad that my mom put me in track and field first. She always told me that, ‘Building up your endurance as an athlete is key.’ I’ve never forgotten that. So each day, I make sure that my endurance is up and then practice on specific techniques, depending on what sport I am playing.

Ephraim is currently a heptathlete, which means she is involved in seven events for her high school’s track team.

"My events are, the 100m dash, 200m dash, long jump, high jump, 400m dash, 4x400m relay, 8x200m relay,” she said.

However, soccer is her number on sport of choice.

Ephriam said, “ I love, appreciate, and try to play all sports. That’s why soccer is my number one sport. The game mixes techniques from various sports such as,  basketball,  football, and running. Though track and field is my foundation, I definitely want to play soccer in college. However, both sports have taught me patience, endurance, strength, teamwork, and how to remain humble. These traits I will hold for the rest of my life”

Fellow teammates believe Ephriam is a strong leader whose immense athletic capabilities are always forceful.

Ephriam’s soccer teammate Jennifer Langston said, "Her great athletic abilities always show on the soccer field. She never stops running until we score."


"She always leads by example through her hard work and success," said Daniel Jennings, a Trigg County High School track teammate”

“She is an amazing athlete,” said  Ephriam’s former track and field coach, Cathy Wilkerson. “In comparison to most athletes, she is on a whole other level, and will continue to go higher.”

"LaNita is the strongest athlete that I know," said  Ephriam former soccer Richard Johnson. “The older she gets, the more her skills are defined. She will be a force to be reckoned with when she gets into NCAA play for college.”

Ephriam currently  holds a 3.6 GPA, runs the 400m dash in 58 secs and is an up and coming sought after  “Sweeper”  in the sport of soccer.

Despite her love for sports, Ephriam acknowledges being a student athlete can be very demanding.

"It is really hard to be a student and an athlete," Ephriam said. "It's not as hard for me now because I’m in high school but I’m sure it will be very hard when I’m in college. I’m sure there will be some point when all of my college buddies will be partying while I’m in my dorm room studying and preparing for a game. “

"Early in the mornings I wake up and run. Then I go to school. After school I go to track and/or soccer practice. Then I come home, eat dinner, do homework, and go to sleep to do it all over again in the morning.” she said.” "There are times when I want just to pass out because of the hard workout that I went through."

Ephriam is, 17yrs old.  is in her senior year of high school and is currently being recruited by various universities. She knows that she wants to attend an out-of-state college, but her family cannot afford the expenses to pay for her to do so. Therefore she has to get a scholarship to attend.

“I wasn’t birthed into riches,” said Ephriam. “However, my mother gave me the tools to succeed. She told me to keep my grades up and put me on a track told me to run…”

“Though we don’t have the money for out-of-state schools,” she said. “I have the grades, strength, and determination to pave my own way. I plan on getting a scholarship for my academics and/or athleticism.  Come what may… I am ready to make my mark in this world.”

Ephriam graduates from high school May 2013.

issue of bloggers wanting press credentials for sporting events.

The least trusted sports media seem to be independent bloggers. When it comes to obtaining a press pass they are usually rejected. The most trust is earned by traditional media outlets such as local radio, newspapers, and TV stations and national sports newspapers and magazines. The following trusted media outlets normally gain press passes and access for their journalists and photographers. Bloggers associated with credible companies such as ESPN.com, Sport Blog, LA Times Sport blog and so on earn less trust as well, but gain more trust than the independent ones.  

Independent bloggers tend to be on the lower end of the scale when it comes to trust in media coverage, because sports organizers like to control what is published about their events. Since corporations tend to own stadiums and teams, they want to make sure that what is media said is up to par. They do not like to be seen in a negative light, and like to control the copyright aspect of the coverage. A lot of independent bloggers tend to seem to have added their bias opinions. According to Dereck Hacket, former Sports Media specialist as Southern University and A & M College, “Independent bloggers want advance their careers by gaining media access, and they tend to stop at nothing to do so. However, they are least trusted because they tend to be there for themselves and not the game. They tend to add an extra flair that isn’t necessary in sports coverage. A lot of them add bias opinions, when in sports you’re just supposed to be covering the facts. And even if a blogger is covering the facts, they are still not trusted, because sometimes the facts do not make the sports organizations or the players look good.”

As a formal college sports journalist during my undergrad, I was taught that sports journalist cover the facts. However, this was during a time when social media was not as popular. Now social media is a popular concept and shapes the way that the media is viewed. A lot of the new-age journalists tend to forget to analyze the game accurately, and leave out their opinions. However, in the world of blogging, opinions are open to write about. However, if an independent blogger want’s access to specific events, I believe that they should follow the traditional writing style of traditional media which is to cover the facts only. 

Hacket said, “If a Blogger wants to cover a sporting event and add their own opinion, then they need to buy a ticket and sit in the bleachers like everyone else. Most of them are just fans anyway who want free access into the game.” 

There is no way of accurately knowing why a blogger wants to gain a press pass into a sporting event. I am sure that a lot of them attend, just because they are fans who want an up and close view of the game. This is exactly why they are the least trusted and do not gain access.
I am guilty myself, of being a secret fan of certain teams, and sometimes desire a way to enter in a game free of charge. As a former active sports blogger, I would meet so many journalists that were covering sporting events just because they were fans. I personally believe whether or not they are a fan, journalists should be covering the events accurately whether than adding their extra opinions.
According to a blog that I recently read Bizofbaseball.com, “Many independent bloggers, such as MLBTradeRumors.com and Yahoo! Sports, have upward of two million pages views daily and represent some of the Internet's heaviest traffic, yet they rank far behind traditional media on trust and are the most likely group to be rejected (29 percent) for a press pass vs. traditional media (8 percent).”

Press passes should have restrictions and should not be freely given to just any bloggers. Sports owners, love media coverage, but they want to have it according to their standards. If a blogger cannot comply to specific rules and standards that traditional follow then they should not be in attendance. Or the bloggers should just pay for their own ticket.

References:

Derek Hacket Former Southern University and A & M College Sports Media Specialist

http://anthonymcfadden01.blogspot.com/2010/05/media-rights-broadcasting-and-press.html

http://www.splc.org/knowyourrights/legalresearch.asp?id=108

http://wizbangblog.com/content/2008/03/15/access-to-pro-sporting-events-for-sports-bloggers.php

http://scottkelby.com/2009/shooting-indy-report/

http://armchairgm.wikia.com/Bloggers_and_Media_Credentials

Biggest Sports Business Conflict in the last 5 years: 2011 NBA Lockout

In my opinion, the biggest sports business conflict in the last 5 years is the 2011 NBA Lockout. It was the fourth lockout in the history of the National Basketball Association (NBA).  The lockout began on July 2011, and lasted for 161-days. It postponed the beginning of the regular 2011-12 season, from November 1 to December 25, and decreased the regular season to 66 games from the original 82.

There were circumstances separating the owners and the players, represented by the NBA. While the lockout was going on, teams could not sign contact players, sign contracts, or trade players. Nor was there access to staff, trainers, or NBA facilities.

The fundamental conflict of the NBA lockout was money. Stephen Greyser, instructor of The Business of Sports said in an interview with Harvard Extension Blog, “It’s a $4 billion plus business, and the biggest issue is how to divide basketball related revenue. “

As the primary matter of the NBA lockout was how to divide revenue, there was another issue of the hard versus soft salary caps. The NBA has a soft salary cap, in comparison to the NFL and NHL hich have hard, with barely no exceptions. . However, they do have the Larry Bird exception, which has some exceptions, yet allows teams to go over the salary cap to sign and re-sign their own players. However some, “NBA teams also pay the ‘luxury tax’ based on total payroll,” Greyser said.
This luxury tax is an additional expanse of another area of argument. However, it does not put player against the owners, yet owners versus owners.  “If a team really wants to pay a lot for players and go over the cap it pays a tax,” said Greyser.
An article by Nancy N posted in Harvard Extension Blog stated, “The Lakers pay $110 million, including the luxury tax, while Sacramento only has a total payroll of $45 million. The owners purport that this is not a matter for the players, but if the luxury tax on the highest payroll was a stiffer tax then it would tend to keep the payroll from escalating.”
On September 13^th, 2011, the union and owners met again to negotiate but the negotiation did not work out. The main source of disagreement regarding the salary cap, remained. The union wanted to continue with the structure of soft caps. However, the owners disagreed and demanded to formulate a hard cap for the team payroll. The players were willing to reduce their salary in exchange for the owners cooperation with the salary cap. However, the owners were reluctant to accept. They believed that they had the most control in negotiation of NBA matters, and refused to give leverage to the players. 

On November 26th, 2011, a provisional deal was met . Afterwards, owners let players have unpaid workouts at team sites on December 1. On December 8^th, 2011 the deal was approved. Free agency, trades, and trainings camps started the next day. 

I think that this is a big sports issue because the owners didn’t seem to think of everyone’s involvement as a whole. And because of their initial lack of cooperation to give the players leverage within rights to salary caps, let to a hold up is season. The lockout not only affected the owners and players, but all the staff that come into play when running the NBA and it’s games. Everyone suffered in some shape or form, the custodians, referees, snack bar employees, media, sponsors, and fans alike.
The NBA lockout put a halt to many productions and salary going into the pockets of the producers. However, when the issues were resolved, the staff whom kept up with the maintenance was back up and running.


References
http://bostonglobe.com/business/2011/11/11/broadcasters-scramble-cope-with-nba-lockout/3VcgB0EZXc6ljaoNr7DTcP/story.html

http://thebottomline.as.ucsb.edu/2011/11/nba-lockout-dilemma-the-lockout-valid-debate-or-stubbornness

http://www.nba.com/2011/news/12/08/labor-deal.ap/index.html#

http://www.nydailynews.com/sports/basketball/nba-bitter-lockout-ends-lebron-james-kevin-durant-finals-article-1.1097006

The Cost in a Name

Nearly two years ago, in August, China saw the budding athletic ability in New York Knicks NBA starter, Jeremy Lin. A sports ball maker in eastern China registered his name trademark for $710 a year and a half ago.

The trademark is now an issue because Jeremy Lin would like to have the rights to his own name.

However, Chinese laws grant favor to whomever registers the trademark first, which in this case was China.  Lin, 23, rose to fame this year after sitting on the bench to starting for the Knicks.

The ball maker company, Wuxi Risheng Sports Utility Co, registered his name as trademark. It also obtained the trademark of variations of his name,"Lin Shuhao (in Chinese characters) Jeremy S.H.L. (initials of Lin's Chinese name)", according to the website of the trademark office of China's State Administration of Industry and Commerce.

In August all Trademark rights were approved to the ball making company for $710 USD.  However, this causes discrepancies for Lin, because he signed a three-year contract in 2010 with Nike whom would like to profit off of his name.

Considering the fact that China has different laws from the U.S. which give the trademark, “Jeremy Lin” ownership to Risheng, I recommend that Lin take it as a loss. In China the first to register gets the rights, and can use the trademark or not. In America we must have a valid reason as to why we want to trademark something. There are two different govern laws going on. In China, the trademark “Jeremy Lin” should be in the possession of Risheng because their legal representative believed in Lin’s potential obviously before anyone else thought to trademark it. Risheng legal representative, Yu Minijie said, “Lin caught her eye when she saw him playing on Chinese television in 2010.”

"I'm a Harvard fan ... I like him very much. He gave me a lot of surprises and inspiration," Yu told Reuters.

However, in review of other articles, it was revealed that she would sell the trademark, “Jeremy Lin” for a reasonable offer. But as of now no one has offered her anything.

Lin did however, win ownership of trademark “Linsanity.” As many as 12 other applicants applied for trademark of the name as well. People were waiting to see what ruling the judge would make regarding. The judge decided that Lin should be the one profiting from his own fame and granted him the trademark, Linsanity. This trademark currently is a part of the Nike contract and shoes and sports clothing line is attached to it.

Though Lin doesn’t have rights to his own name in China til 2021, he still is well off for a 23yr old, Harvard Economics graduate. He is currently on a $800,000 a yr term with the Knicks and has endorsement deals. It was stated by Reuters that he is worth well off 15 million dollars. I think that he should let China keep the trademark and continue on with his newly famed success as a superstar. 

References

http://gothamist.com/2012/02/18/linsanity_law_jeremy_lin_applies_to.php

http://aol.sportingnews.com/nba/story/2012-05-25/jeremy-lin-linsanity-trademark-new-york-knicks-carmelo-anthony

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/02/27/jeremy-lin-trademark-scooped-chinese-company_n_1303271.html

http://aol.sportingnews.com/nba/story/2012-05-25/jeremy-lin-linsanity-trademark-new-york-knicks-carmelo-anthony

http://www.sbnation.com/nba/2012/6/2/3059549/jeremy-lin-trademark-linsanity-copyright-patent

THE NBA LOCKOUT: Biggest Sports Story of 2011

I believe that the NBA lockout was the biggest sports story of 2011.  No one expected the lockout to last from July 1^st, 2011 through Christmas Day but it did.  At the time, owners and players just didn’t seem to find a middle ground for the terms of a new collective bargaining agreement. For those whom aren’t fully in the know of what the lockout was over, it was mainly focused on who would get the larger portion of the league’s income. However, I am sure that there was more to fuss over on both ends.  The owners simply wanted to obtain the majority of the funds, but for once the players took a stand and weren’t having it. 

Like most NBA fans, I was shocked that it took so long to reach a mutual gain. I assumed that the owners would take into consideration the fact that the players are the ones risking their bodies and health daily by playing on the court. However, it was a constant battle and it looked like it would never end.

Similar to all of the Occupy Events going on throughout the world, it seemed as if NBA players were in an Occupation stance of their own, with the demands of being justly paid for their performance according to their terms. Initially, neither the owners nor players would budge on their terms. Due to the fact that neither side would move, this caused the NBA season to be anticipated by many fans.

 In October the first two weeks of the season were cancelled and the revenue of the owners and players suffered.  Yet  with fans from around the world waiting on the edge of their seats for the season to begin, the two sides finally  came to a mutual gain agreement on Thanksgiving 2011.

I think that this was the biggest sports story of 2011, because the NBA is a big money making industry. Everyone  knows of the game of basketball. Even if they do not know the rules of the game, the majority of people, especially Americans  know of at least one famous basketball player. NBA owners, players, and fans suffered alike because everyone wants the  thrill of the game to continue. However, no one really knew if there would ne a 2011-2012 season because of  the lockout. It seemed as if there wasn’t going to be one because of the stubbornness of both parties. Yet in the end negotiations  became solid deals, and each party found a mutual gain to satisfy the needs of everyone. As an NBA fan, I am overjoyed, and definitely am tuning into the league more than ever this year.

Two references that agree that the NBA Lockout was one of the biggest sports stories of 2011 are,

The  Atlantic: http://www.theatlantic.com/entertainment/archive/2011/12/the-10-biggest-sports-stories-of-2011/249466/#slide2

The Business Insider: http://articles.businessinsider.com/keyword/nba-lockout

From Her Eyes- A Mara Hruby EP Review

                                               Mara Hruby in the Oakland Hills. Photo Credit: Melinda James

Creativity is described as exuding inexorable gifts, incomparable foresight, and a declaration so captivating, that it is praiseworthy of applause. However, Mara Hruby is a glowing illustration of so much more than that, and her work deserves an early on standing ovation. The 23 year old Northern California, Oakland native is not only making her mark as a creative songstress, but is adding distinctive musical  guitar and piano compositions, alongside a moniker look to her idiosyncratic sound. She is a soulstress whom shows us the beauty and artistry of rhythm, sound, and class through her eyes.

Hruby’s seven-track EP, From Her Eyes has been noticed worldwide. She shows the onlookers and listeners that age is nothing but a number, and wisdom can exude in creative class, style, and music. 

One of the most fascinating characteristics of Hruby’s voice and style is that there appears to be an audacious affect of the 1950s intertwined into them. What’s even more stimulating is that she is only 23 yrs old, and exudes the wisdom and grace of a true old- fashioned artist…simply divine. 

In an interview with About Her Films Founder and Director of Hruby’s “Character” video, Melinda James, Hruby was asked to explain her sound: “My sound/style comes from what I have experienced in life. I feel my sound is organic, distinct, melodic, eclectic, and filled with sensitivity. To say the least, I’d call my music a melodic melting pot.” 

Presently she is practicing recording “covers” of familiarly known music by beloved male artists. In her seven-track EP, From Her Eyes she adds her female renditions to male originated songs. The album signifies her perception, signature style, and how these songs can be captivated creatively from the eyes of a woman.  She describes these perception through the songs which radiate from her lips. She  she stated that, “Each song is linked to recollections of her youth.”

James whom happens to be a personal friend of mine, captured the essence and divinity of Hruby’s stylistic voice and fashion in her tribute to the beautiful elegance of Van Hunt’s song, “Character.” This video was also debuted in Essence Magazine at Essence.com .  James said, “ I had the pleasure of shooting a music video with Mara Hruby for her rendition of ‘Character.’ This is one of my favorite music videos to date. I was able to set a mood and aesthetic that I think is representative of Mara’s style and persona. I feel really honored that the video was able to debut on Essence.com. Keep an eye on Mara – she has a great future ahead of her.”

I’ve personally had the pleasure of listening to her seven-track EP,  From Her Eyes. It is a hypnotic dose of female artistry and perception of how male-dominated songs should be rendered through the female entity. She sings with poise and grace. Listeners will be astounded to hear how her music innately exudes throughout her being and enters the heart of all whom listens.  She is definitely a classic creative artist on the rise that should not be ignored.

Listen and Enjoy her seven-track EP,  From Her Eyes here:  http://marahruby.bandcamp.com/album/from-her-eyes

Check out her website: http://marahruby.com/page/10 

Youtube channel: http://www.youtube.com/user/Marahruby22/videos

View other works by Film Director Melinda James: http://aboutherfilms.com/2011/10/mara-hruby-character/

Check out her song music video in ode to Van Hunt’s “Character”, directed by About Her Films founder, Melinda James below. 

A Woman's Work

I had the pleasure of interviewing up and coming painter/visual artist Corinna Nicole Brewer. Here is what she had to say to some of the questions I asked her about her work.

Self Portrait painted by Corinna Nicole Brewer 

                                            

Corinna Nicole is a visual artist currently residing in Oakland, California.  Corinna was born in 1985 in Germany, where she grew up for 8 years. She later moved to Alabama, living there for 16 years before moving to California. She has a Bachelor's in Art from the University of Montevallo, in Montevallo, Alabama and received her Master's in Fine Arts in the Practice of Art from UC Berkeley in May 2011.

Primarily a painter, but interested in other media, Corinna's work often deals with identity and desire, whether it is about the dynamics between herself and others, her desire for women, her bi-racial heritage or her interests in female masculinities.

Where do you do your work?

I have a studio in Richmond, CA, provided by UC Berkeley at which I do my oil paintings, but I often do smaller, less toxic work in my bed. Unfortunately, I will no longer have my studio after July, so after that I'll be doing all of my work in my bedroom.

Do you work from life, or from photographs or from imagination?

I almost always work from photograph. To be honest, working purely from imagination is not a strong point for me and usually results in scribbles that end up in the trash.

What moves you most in life, either to inspire or upset you?

The people in my life and the communities I'm a part of inspire me. Much of my work deals with the queer community because that is what I'm surrounded by and interested in. I also recently started "stalking" my friends facebook profiles for kiss pictures of which I do ink/watercolor drawings.

Do any of your paintings have a deeper meaning?

Most of my work is made with the intention of making the viewer think about, reflect on, acknowledge or struggle with some idea. My most recent large scale paintings, for example appropriated classical images of the objectified female nude, which I then recreated by employing images of powerful, strong Masculine of Center women who reject the male gaze. The paintings demand that the viewer re-assess how women should be viewed and acknowledge that they may not necessarily fit the stereotypical category of "feminine."

Do you express different feelings when painting or do you just paint for the sake of painting?

Usually I create art to express a feeling, because my goal is for the viewer to spend time with my work, rather than just glance at it and take it for  a "beautiful painting." I want the viewer to feel something, to feel compelled to stay with it and have my art stay with them even after they are no longer looking at it. But sometimes, I need a break from that and will make art just for the sake of making it - art that is more lighthearted and about being visually pleasing.

Do you work certain hours each day or only when you are inspired to work?

Unless I'm on a tight deadline, I try to only create when I'm in the mood to. I find that forcing myself to make art only results in works that I do not like. Sometimes I'll only go to the studio once a week, sometimes I'll be in bed and suddenly get the urge to draw at 2am.

Out of all the career choices, do you think your career choice was a good one?

Although I didn't know that I wanted to be an artist until my sophomore year of undergrad, I strongly believe I was born to do this. I am not interested in anything else. Art is the only career I can see myself pursuing and being passionate about.

What do you enjoy about art?

I enjoy that art is about connecting. I appreciate the fact that not every work of art speaks to me, meaning that when I do find a work that I am interested in, I'm meant to spend time with it for a reason. I enjoy that anything can be argued to be art, if presented in the right context. Art creates dialogue and is meant to document the world we live in, as well as the things we can not see. I enjoy that art expresses more than words are capable of.

 What is the role of the artist in society?

The role of the artist is to show things people normally might now see.

What is the place of your work in society?

I'm still figuring that out. I'm relatively new to the art world and I'm still trying to find my niche.

What technique do you use?

Whatever technique is right for the particular work of art.

Which is more important to you, the subject of your painting, or the way it is executed?

The way the painting is executed is important in how the subject matter is expressed once the work of art is completed. But in the end, people will be more focused on the subject matter than the technique. I think most people have no idea what we as artists go through to create a work of art and they probably never will unless they spend a day in the studio with us. So I suppose I am more concerned with the subject matter of my art. 

How do u feel when you are letting your emotions loose on the canvas?

The process of making art can often be objective for me, even though the content of the work is very subjective. I tend to zone into the strokes of my paintbrush, how the colors are blending, etc, rather than paint with an emotion. On the other hand, when I do my kiss drawings, an on-going project of fun, quirky images of people kissing, I often catch myself smiling as I am drawing because I enjoy the quirkiness of them and get pleasure out of the expressions I put on paper. 

Do you see yourself changing the face of art, like for example Michelangelo?

I hope that my art will bring more light to and give a voice to queer people of color. But I think I have a long road ahead of me.

Is it more difficult to market your work as a Black female in the art industry?

Statistically, yes, that is a fact. If you're not a European, white male, your place in the art world is undoubtedly more difficult. I find that being an artist is difficult all in all. It requires not only that you make art, but that you spend just as much time marketing yourself, putting yourself out there. It can be exhausting. I do think that because my work often deals with subject matter that is very specific to the queer community, it is more difficult for me to find venues to exhibit my art. As horrible as it may sound, lately I've been trying to create art that may be more accessible to a larger, broader audience.

Where do you see yourself as an artist in the next 5yrs?

Hopefully in my studio making art, having my art widely exhibited, and be represented by a few galleries.

What makes you different from other artists or painters?

I don't think I have an answer for that one. Art is such a non-typical path...every artist finds their own way. I would, however, say that while art making is a huge part of my life, I look most forward to becoming a mother. I think having a child is the one thing that is more important to me than art.

View Corinna Nicole's Artwork at http://corinna-nicole.com/home.html