Take a Moment...& Pat Yourself on the Back!

I want to thank you... THANK YOU!
I want to congratulate you... CONGRATULATIONS!
I want to commend you on a job well done... BRAVO! WELL DONE!

You see... you've come such a long way to having the opportunity to read these words.

How about we count a few blessings...

• Your Mom and Pops started talking...and somehow... out of the 40 million to 1.2 billion sperm cells...YOU my friend were the CHOSEN ONE! CONGRATULATIONS! You did it!
• NEXT... YOU LIVE IN AMERICA: We Do What We Want & the worst problem we face is losing our cell phones or having no memory space for our next selfie or IG Post.
• Some how some way you have leisure time versus hunting and gathering for survival. 
• You're surfing the web right now...pretty cool considering ya boi Eisenhower didn't put in orders for ARPA (Advanced Research Projects Agency)  until the late 1950's. That's pretty recent in our history I'd say.
• Also, if you wanted food, I bet you could walk on over to the fridge or with a few clicks of a button or a tap of an app some kid looking to make ends meat will bring it right to you...like literally right to your face! lol Please Tip Him! #TheStruggle

I mention all these things because its so easy to get so lost in it all. Its so easy to be blind by all the bs; so easy to enlarge our own issues. For some reason we can't keep track of the blessings God sends our way...We or I...excuse me..., have found myself expecting only the good to take place. Its like air...we take it for granted. After each exhale we expect to inhale and inhale abundantly at that. To be real...it sometimes makes me sick to my stomach how our culture has become so entitled! Really!??? Put in some work! Stop crying...stop complaining...stop feeling sorry for yourself. To be quite frank...AIN'T NOBODY GOT TIME FOR THAT!

I challenge you to see the good in all challenges for the rest of this week. I challenge you to do something nice for someone who wouldn't expect it nor can ever repay you. Be a happy giver this week. Love someone even harder tomorrow. Write someone a hand written letter. Call your folks and tell them thank you for all their sacrifices to allow you to get to this point. Find your favorite teacher and tell them all the life lessons they provided you...they are waiting on your call! Heck, even get in the kitchen and learn that infamous family recipe! #ApronLifestyle 

For me...I've been thinking a lot about my lasts breaths on this planet... You see...I've got High Blood Pressure, also known as the silent killer...its the only subject I remember in my High School Health Science Elective. lol Regardless, at the tender age of 16 I've had it. Now at 27 I still have it and sometimes I don't know if its my heart or my chest that aches. 

The main questions I have are pretty simple: 

• Why are we here? What happens after I die? What was life like before I was even here? What was I doing before the 1st blessing mentioned above? Why do we have outer space? Whats really inside of a black hole? Will my name be written in God's Holy Book?  

I say these are pretty typical questions...however my faith holds me firm. My focus is to love and encourage people and to make every breath count! My aim is to live on PURPOSE. 

I suggest you do the same my friend...no more of these jobs you hate...or deferring of the dreams...for what? You only live once...as far as we know.

Take Care, 

OG

2015 Women's Impact Conference and Luncheon

SHERO'S STAND UP!

  There is no "S" on my chest but, a HERO lives within!

Friday, March 20th, 2015

MIAMI- With the 10th Annual Jazz in the Gardens Music Festival just around the corner, the Miramar Cultural Center played host to the 2015 WOMEN'S IMPACT CONFERENCE & LUNCHEON. 

Women from all over the map came to celebrate life, triumph and sisterhood in fellowship with one another.

These were the women of the world; varied races, creeds and cultures; all engaged for an unforgettable journey of self-discovery! As the beautiful aroma of perfume, love and laughter filled the air, you could sense good vibes were in order.

To kick things off, Dee Thompson, Motivational Speaker, Life Coach, and Sales Trainer, set the tone with her team members, Bernadette Clayborne, Angela Pitts, Ray Shipman, and Shawn Saunders for the April 18th event: Purpose Never Dies! 

She explains that in this lifetime.... friendships, business collaborations, individuals, and relationships will die around you, however, your purpose never dies...it lives on through you! 

For more details visit: http://www.deethompsonspeaks2.com/

In living color, these ladies experienced beautiful decor laced with essential activities associated with inspiration and motivation. They learned the beauty of truly accepting themselves for who they are, where they come from and in turn learned to celebrate just how far they have come.

Many over lapping themes played an essential role in empowering our Sheros. It was the duty of the 2015 WICL to constantly encourage our mothers, sisters and daughters to live with purpose while remembering they are BOLD and Beautiful.

These lovely ladies were given tools to help them obtain success for a lifetime! They learned to live centered and complete lives by taking advantage of all of life's endless possibilities; by stepping into their power and authority; by understanding their purpose, gifting and calling and financial duties within such a beautiful world.

Attendees were entertained, engaged and pampered between Super Shero Swag Bags, numerous vendors such as Golden Krust, Nesquik, Pangea Organics, Sporty Mommas, and The Jason Taylor Foundation, to name a few. Amazing food, live music and massages were all on hand in an effort to combating with the trials of life. In team tandem fashion, distinguished experts deliver powerful tips, tools and information on topics that inspired all day long.

With such a great lineup of speakers, this was the place to have your face! I believe some ladies were blessed with super strength upon their exit and flew away in an effort to fight crime. :)

Missed out on the fun?

Don't worry, the City of Miami Gardens is excited to present to you and welcome you to the Tenth Annual Jazz in the Gardens music festival. After nine years of unforgettable concert experiences and entertainment, this event has grown to become one of the most highly regarded and anticipated music festival events in the country. 

The 2015 music festival will be hosted by Celebrity comedian, author and now radio personality, DL Hughley!

Last year, this event garnered 68,000 guests, attracting both locals and thousands of out-of-towners to the beautiful City of Miami Gardens. 

Patrons enjoyed live performances by Grammy award-winning artists such as Charlie Wilson, New Edition, Neyo, Earth Wind & Fire, Gladys Knight, Kenny "Babyface" Edmonds, LL Cool J, Fantasia, Mary J. Blige, Kenny G, and Mary Mary all while reveling in a wide variety of ethnically diverse foods and top notch merchandise from all around the world.

  On March 21st & 22nd Jazz in the Gardens will be jazzing the magical tradition at Sun Life Stadium, hosting an event that will surely surpass last years' experience with another illustrious lineup that continues to make this festival second to none. 

For more info contact:

The LinkUp With AshFiMon

http://www.jazzinthegardens.com/2015/index.html

WHAT'S HOT AT THIS YEAR'S ART BASEL??? Miami Artist Troy Simmons, Solo Show at Context Art Fair

Miami Artist Troy Simmons, Solo Show at Context Art Fair 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Constance Simmons: (305)788-7252

November 24, 2014 

MIAMI, FL--Local artist Troy Simmons has immersed himself in his latest artwork, exploring the evolution of urbanism and nature’s persistence to coexist. A consistent theme, which echoes true to his intense fascination with nature and modern Brutalist Architecture.

 Under the direction of Jan Kossen Contemporary Art Gallery in Basel, Switzerland, Simmons will

showcase his new concrete work during a solo show at CONTEXT Miami Art Fair December 2nd at booth #E75. He will also have several pieces on display at SCOPE Art Show Miami Beach. 

His massive, large-scale concrete canvases are a mix of acrylic paints and raw materials. At first 

glance, the magnitude of his work is clearly realized. Most of his pieces weight over 100 

pounds. A rough and raw relationship often described as a cataclysmic illustration of urbanism.

Simmons calls his work a “re-incarnation of the Arte Povera genre” where the inclusion of simple natural elements, such as wood and soil takes an integral part in the creation of the art. 

His intended goal is to create a playful mix of the hard and soft, expressing the ideological perceptions of binary relationships. Rochi Llaneza, Former Executive Director of Hardcore Contemporary Art, curated his first show in Miami in 2009. She says, “Creating an algorithm of inspired imagery, Simmons’ connection to his ecological charged pieces is clearly reflected in his use of re-purposed materials.”

The inspiration behind his latest collection evolved after a recent trip to Germany. He spent 

time with his wife’s family exploring Baden-Württemberg in the southern part of the country. 

The postwar architecture is a fragmentation of Germany’s traditional heritage mixed with 

simple modern construction. 

Simmons currently works as a full-time artist, but his educational background is in Architecture and Environmental Science. He studied at Sam Houston State University and worked as an 

Environmental Lab Technician in Houston, Texas. He later went on to Oklahoma State University and earned a degree in Architectural Design. 

Simmons is a Resident Artist at the Bakehouse Artist Complex in Miami’s Wynwood Art District.

Samples of his current work at www.TroySimmonsStudio.com.

PLEASE PRAY FOR ME! I have a disease...

I have been DIAGNOSED w/ a DISEASE- please please please... Pray for Me!

Friends, I write to you... from a place of great discomfort, depths of weakness, a state of vulnerability, all immersed in a sea full of salt-filled tears and a deadly combination of anguish and sorrow. 

My eyes lay heavy... as tears free fall past my cheek... 

It is easy for me to sit here and question Why me? Why me? Why not them? 

But the real question is... Why not me? Why not me? Why not? For I am no different than them! 

You see, for quite some time, I've neglected and ignored the speech my body put forward. Every throb of mental anguish, and every tense moment neglected. Questions... have been drag-racing through my brain along the streets of self-doubt as well as the highways and byways of worry. But, as fate would have it, I kept on driving, missing every turnaround opportunity, every pit stop to safety and security that came my way. I simply had no care in the world to stop... like a midnight trucker late for a delivery, I kept driving. With the windows down, no seat belt, music blaring and my hair flowing in the winds without a care in the world, sign after sign, I ignored them all; until the fumes became apparent, the engine light to my health and sanity was blinking and now my mind was in a midnight-black, cloud of disarray...the time had come to face the music for I was lost... and then... BOOM! Things "Geaux" black. I've totaled myself.

Friend, to me...TRUTH  equals LOVE. The truth is love and in that lay Freedom. In all her beauty and honor she sits there like a proud and loving mother. Surrounding yourself with people who constantly tell you what you want to hear isn't helping you...it's not! I for one, am not a "Yes Man." So, in sharing my story with you I hope to accomplish a few things. 1) I want you to understand that sharing these words is out of complete and utter Love, Truth & Compassion. 2) My hope for you is that perhaps a word, phrase or visual, will help save your life in some way! 3) May you share something "Of Good Cheer" with someone you know or even someone you don't. 4) May these words not only challenge you, but encourage you to live a life without fear and FULL of Fearlessness and ultimately help you understand a great deal more about the value of your Self-worth! 

My Condition

I suffer from what I call, (OCD) wait...wait...wait...not what you're thinking of, yet its a rare condition better known as "Obsession Comparison Disorder." I'm sure you've never been exposed to this. 

If I look back at my life, for years I have been like this and most of the time "Didn't Even Know It!" I believe it started when I was at the age of 2 years old, wanting whatever building blocks my peers had (the ones different from mine of course). From there it escalated to snack time in day care; I was constantly refusing to share animal crackers or PB & J sandwiches while stealing the Oreos and gummy worms from the kids I didn't like or felt inferior to. 

In high school, it took on a more serious and chronic phase as what we know as the social norms became the catalyst for my disease. Things like "being liked," popularity and having the coolest clothes became the new obsession. Funny thing is, the older I get...it seems as though I don't, can't and won't rid myself of this plague. And my my my... My God! This disease that has been tormenting me since the "Terrible 2's" has been everything Terrible and nothing Terrific. Within the last 6-8 years its mutated and multiplied!

During my time as a student-athlete at LSU may have been the toughest moments of my sickness. I mean life was tough. I was a nobody (at least in my mind) and I was being thrust into a world I didn't quite understand...filled with drugs, sex, little to no money except what was wired from the parentals here and there but what there was an abundance of was...well...freedom! I went from living a life built on complete structure to having to build a life of complete structure! Are you serious?

Broke, hungry, lost with no friends... yet, there was one thing inside me that kept this plague from eating my flesh and that was my "ambition!" Without my ambition to make the team...I would've fallen to the wayside. However, even though football was my safe haven, it was also a deadly temptation. I seen my teammates go from dead broke to Millionaires. I seen zeros turned into "Hero." Oh, and the magic of the ole' pick-up truck my Grand Daddy used to drive turned into the new Big Body, Black-on-Black Escalade or a yellow and lime green lamborghini I know own. Perhaps it was TV. Or, lets blame it on the music. Pshhhh, how about I blame social media or maybe even the movies. But, why? Why even bother? The truth is, I was trying to by a one-way-ticket on the "Money Train, too!" Yet, they only accepted the Strongest, Fastest and More Talented Currency, while I'd only been given a dollar and a dream!

My worry is that perhaps you or someone you know may suffer from the same barrage of relentless attacks; same agonizing anguish, same manipulative self-doubt and chronic worry. 

But yet again...I'm quite sure I am a rare case and you've been spared. Today, I have found myself consumed...consumed by not just wheather I am liked, but rather when I Share, Post, Click or Tweet that millions of you decide to simply CLICK "LIKE." I suffer from Obsessive Comparison Disorder (OCD).

Mirror, mirror on Facebook, tell me how my life should look! 

Mirror, mirror on Instagram, tell me who I really am!       

"I feel as though I'm no longer pretty, no longer smart and no longer liked. Facebook says I have 2,147 friends and Instagram acknowledges I have 1,787  followers on my page but only 77 pressed "Like." I can't believe this! I feel ugly and unwanted. What am I to do? Is this just me or is it happening to you too?"

Symptoms: In case you were wondering if you suffer from Obsessive Comparison Disorder (OCD), look below to see if you can  identify with any of the symptoms below?

• One might find it difficult to celebrate the successes of others.
• Do you find yourself always complaining? Leading with statements such as, "What about me?" or Why didn't I, or "But Me" or "But I."
• Perhaps you find it difficult to give compliments to others.
• Maybe you wish harm or misfortune unto others or simply someone else.
• Characteristics of Pride (makes you feel superior to others).
• Characteristics of Envy (makes you feel inferior to others).
• Characteristics of Comparison (The "ER" effect: ER... big-ER, cool-ER, smart-ER, fast-ER, nice-ER)
• Are you running to purchase whatever the "Jones'" (Trend Setters) have and you don't even know who the Jones' are?!!!
• Are you constantly finding one's self spending money in order to enter in the "Debt Retirement Program" aka buying plenty things you don't and won't need...compulsive shopping or spending.
• Your brain only operates on a "I WANT" basis, not I NEED basis.
• Note: These are only a few...Join in on the fun and add in your symptoms too!
• Oh yeah...this is a good one... how many selfies lay inside that device? You know, pictures of only you or you posing to live the so called "Good Life?" That thing may have you chained and slain like the picture back up top!

"I speak to you from my weakness..." -OG

Is this you? 

Can you relate?

What is it that you are constantly chasing? Constantly yearning for? Obsessed with?

Is it him? or Is it her?

Is it a destination? A feeling? A drug or looks? A car? A house? Success? Money? Clothes? Status? Sex?

Whatever your OCD is... realize its eating away at you, your time, and your destiny day in and day out, "You" are losing your Self-worth and more importantly, losing touch with the Gift of Life God gave you! There is no one on this planet, nor that has ever lived that is "Just Like You!" You're unique. You're all that and the bag of chips! The good thing is, if you didn't know, perhaps I went through all this...simply to press "Post This!" So, sit back, take a deep breath and enjoy the show as you click below:

Great News!!! Watch this!

I am Second: Wayne Huizenga

www.iamsecond.com

Here is the Cure!

• Understand that comparison is the destroyer of your destiny! So, run your own race! Lets not be concerned with what we are not gifted in or what we don't have. 
• Remember, OCD will kill your joy, steal your peace, and suffocate your sanity!
• OCD is a cancer to contentment!
• OCD will consistently cloud the clarity of the "Calling" that God has on your life. Because quite frankly, there is a major difference between a Career and a Calling!
• Career- What you are paid to do!
• Calling- What you are made to do! Guess what? God's given you everything you need within "You" to fulfill that mission!
• The mold was broken when God made you! You are wonderfully and uniquely made!
• Realize that "You Sir" or "Ma'am" are a #MASTERPIECE!!!
• Say it with me 3 Times, " I AM A MASTERPIECE..." (NOW... go find some velvet rope to drape yourself in while you walk around the office or on campus telling the world that you're a "MASTERPIECE!" lol
• The last one is simple...Stay in your lane...and... Run your own race!

It is time you LOVE YOURSELF! OR better yet, "LIKE" YOURSELF!

If and only if...

share it. 

; )

Blog inspired by Trinity Church in Miami Gardens, FL and guest speaker Robert Madu 

www.trinitychurch.tv

www.robertmadu.com 

May God Bless You & Keep You!

www.orlandogunn.com

IG: ORLANDEAUX

TWITTER: @ORLANDOGUNN

For All My Haters!!!

I'm proud I'm happy I'm me I'm moving forward... you push me back.

I'm successful I'm diligent I'm willing I'm climbing the mountain...you step on my fingers.

I'm feeling the pressure I'm moving past it I'm nervous...you assure me that I will fail.

I'm learning I'm growing I'm confident I got accepted... you assure me that I'll never graduate.

I've been hurt I've been lied to I've been burned I've been scammed... you assure me that it all will happen again!

I made it I got the job I live where I had always planned... and you still hating? 

Who are you? Why are you this way? Why do you hate me so? Does it pleasure you to see me fail? 

You know what...I thank God for perspective. While the rest of the world is still talking about their haters...I understand that you will never stop me! Only I can stop myself. 

I understand that deep deep deep down inside you...you're disappointed in yourself! The difference between you and I is that I made a decision. I had a vision. I set goals. I made plans. More importantly, I put action to my words and made things happen. Some of you want to sleep more than you want to be successful. I don't sleep anymore because I realize I have an opportunity of a lifetime! 

You see...you don't really hate me. In fact, you hate yourself because I am merely the reflection that you always wanted to be! So...its all good! Feel free to hate on me. By no means am I perfect and I know you know it! But... God will keep using me. I'll pray for you in the meantime.

Halla at me!

Dear Ballerina...may you dance until your Heart is content.

Dear Ballerina,

I write to you in a state of awe and with a humbled heart. I want you to know that if I am not making someone else's life better, I'm wasting my time; wasting my life.

And with that...I speak these brief words to you:

May all the rest of your days shine bright and may you find them pleasing to your heart's delight.
May your passion, wisdom and ambition take you farther than you've ever envisioned.
May you continue to smile; so inviting, so soothing; a gift to the human eye.
May you continue to care, to share and to give back to those who can't give to themselves. For He first gave to us, so we shall pay it forward.

Your beauty lay within the confidence of your soul. The adventure in your eyes allows for all of us to look deep inside you; in essence, challenging us to see ourselves; to question our true being; who we are and where we are going.

You are beautiful Ballerina...from inside-out. The moment I witnessed your dance from the crowed about...
Through the many people, flashing lights and loud music, I saw something different in you. I feel as though through your dance... I truly caught a glimpse of you; truly got to know you.


The shadows of your being is all we can truly see. From a distance, we struggle to find a true understanding of the life it is that you see. But I must say...thank you for letting me in; for even if it were just a moment.

Most of us are snuggled, excited, and patiently awaiting what it is that we've all hoped to see. We don't know your pain, we don't know your struggle. We don't know your trials, hurt or triumph...however all we await is the moment you speak to us; dance for us; to our hearts, to our minds, to our souls. For the moment the curtains rise; the moment the show begins.

Curtains Please! Lights! Action!
You spoke to me. You spoke to us! Regardless of what everyone else heard or what they saw...I to have been in your shoes. I too have performed for the crowd; for the spectator; for my hater. I too have a story to tell and whom a better person than you? I invite you to show me where it hurts so that I may have the opportunity to show my loyalty and care to you. I invite you to show me why you care so that I may share similar stories that I promise will interest you.

Speak to us. Speak to me. Speak to us. Speak to me. Bravo! Bravo! Bravo! We all chant.
Speak to us. Thank you for your talent. Thank you for your dance. You've been destined to share with the world; you are no longer just a little, cute ole' girl.

Your strength, your might, your goodness and kind heart; all a reflection for what you've determined to become your self designed art.

May all the rest of your days shine bright and may you find them pleasing to your heart's delight.
May your passion, wisdom and ambition take you farther than you've ever envisioned.
May you continue to smile; so inviting, so soothing; so pleasing to the human eye.
May you continue to care, to share and to give back to those who can't give to themselves.
For He first gave to us, so we shall pay it forward as well.

 Dance...My Beautiful Ballerina...dance.

   

What Up! What Up! What Up! To My Boy E.T.

ET,

Its 2:31am on Saturday morning...and I'm hoping to get this to you by your normal "Rise N Grind."

A year ago, I witnessed "How bad do you want it part 1." The clip ignited the fire that lay within me. With Giavanni Ruffin's workout visual in combination with your narration about the Guru; I was consumed and infected all at once... diagnosed with a case of hatred for average; taste buds disgusted by the distaste of being content with "Just getting by." In fact, if I'd been admitted to the ER, I would've been considered suffering with a case of Anaphylaxis: an extreme form of an allergic reaction that can cause loss of consciousness!

With that being said...let me be 100:
From the depths of my heart, I can never THANK YOU enough!
From one black man to another... I thank you for... for so... so ... so much!
Thank you for your passion!
Thank you for your truth!
Thank you for your hustle!
Thank you for your story!
Thank you for setting the example!
Thank you for never ever giving up!
Thank you for allowing God to use you!

 In case you awake missing an ounce of your excitement and passion may you remember that you're changing the world one second at a time; one clip at a time; one click at a time; one message at a time!

May you remember that "We" hear you loud and clear! "We" see you and you don't even know it! You're changing our lives one soul at a time and we will in turn share the good news one post at a time!

ET, you're the Diamond that had to but cut the most...for our sake that is! Your beauty, your gift, and your triumph is our light! Your testimony is the catalyst that ignites the lights of your hometown that is Detroit and serves as the lighthouse to the rest of the souls lost at sea. We hear you! We see you!

Thank you for being you!  Thank you for representing us! Thank you for not becoming just another statistic. Thank you for the grind! Thank you for the hustle! Thank you for the fight! Thank you for understanding Corporate America! Thank you for being a family man! Thank you for being faithful! Thank you for the push!

I want you to know... I'm using my pain to push me toward GREATNESS!

I'm also a Home Town Hero: Harker Heights, Texas is where I'm from.
Harker Heights High is where I return to speak!
Where I'm from... kids are lost every year to senseless violence, drugs, depression and stupidity. In Texas, a major emphasis is placed on sport and many of these students feel like its the only way out! I go back to tell them that its not but...if they do take this path, I encourage them, coach them and educate them on how to navigate it!

My Pride stems from the following: Being a Black Man in America! Growing up as Texas Boys! Earning a 2007 National Championship as a LSU Tiger!  Achieving a second degree though I'm not fond of school! Making it to the NFL!

I focused on the cheese!
I got the 4 year degree when I hated school.
I got the Masters because someone took a chance on me!
I realized the New rules, New codes, New language! while at LSU.
Since I was a kid, making it to the league was my dream!
And, I did feel like I had something to prove to the folks back home; like I was carrying my city on my back.

I now understand that I had to give up to grow up as well as learn from my homeboys mistakes.

I chose wisely, and just as I began to question the outcome of my life...God allowed our paths to cross one more time!

I look forward to meeting you next week! I know you'll be a blessing to my organization and I'm geeked!

ET, you have something great in you! Thank you for the grind! Thank you for pushing me to grow, to learn and for teaching me to maximize my time!

I'm willing to make the changes; to give up what takes away from GREATNESS; I'm willing to get cut like a diamond!

Make me! Shape me! Mold me! I'd rather die like Christ than live unholy!

God Bless you ET!

Thank you,

I can I must I will: BPBF

OG

Who is ET: 

http://etinspires.com/

AVID Career Exploration Day with the Miami Dolphins

AVID CAREER EXPLORATION DAY WITH THE MIAMI DOLPHINS

A day such as this one does not happen without planning.

A day such as this one does not happen if no one is there to see it through.

A day such as this does not happen without a vision.

A day such as this does not happen without sacrafice.

A day such as this is meant for the "Diamonds in the rough..."

A day such as this was meant for AVID!

On Sunday, November 17, 2013 @ 11 a.m. a group of 750 students, teachers and parents enjoyed an opportunity of a lifetime at the Inaugural AVID Career Exploration Day held inside Sun Life Stadium on behalf of the Miami Dolphins in Miami Gardens, FL.

The Career Exploration was the first of its kind between AVID (a unique college readiness program) and the NFL's Miami Dolphins. The day was comprised of an Executive Panel of Miami Dolphins employees, a Networking Breakout Session, a Commemorative Group photo, Individual Group tours, accompanied by live activations with the United States Tennis Association of Florida and the big kicker at the end... A 20-16 game-winning, thriller of a performance by the Miami Dolphins as they defeated the San Diego Chargers during the NFL's Salute to Service Game.

Students traveled from all over the state of Florida. A special thanks goes out to all of the following AVID programs for participating:

• Deltona High School
• Bay Point Middle School  
• University High School
• West Glades School
• Clewiston Middle School
• Marathon High School
• Lake Minneola High School
• Tavares High School
• Tavares Middle School
• Hardee Junior High
• Palm Beach Lakes High School
• Deland High School
• Glades Central Community High
• Pemayetv Emahakv Charter School
• Odyssey Middle School
• McNair Magnet School
• Atlantic Community High School
• EAU Gallie High School
• Leesburg High

THANK YOU!!!

For the soul who wanted more out of life...
For the child whom the world had counted out...
For the one who was strong, steady and capable but just needed a jump start; some encouragement or simply one opportunity, we salute you!

Not only was this day a salute to our Armed Forces but also a salute to the many individuals who allowed themselves to fall in love with AVID. This day was a salute to those who entrusted their future success in the hands of the AVID model and committed to a lifestyle of excellence. We salute you! One salute to Mary Catherine Swanson and her vision in the 1980s. One salute to the first 32 students and the now more than 700,000 students in more than 4,900 schools and 28 post secondary institutions in 46 states.
AVID we salute you!

Ironically enough, behind the planning of such a wonderful event was indeed a former AVID student! Meet Orlando Gunn, Group Sales Representative for the Miami Dolphins who also honored his father, Retired Army 1SGT Orlando Gunn Sr. for his 24 years of service. 

"As a kid, I had a dream that making it to the NFL was possible...and as I grew older I quickly realized it wouldn't be easy but, I never quit. AVID played a significant role in my journey and since then, its always been on my heart to give back to AVID." said Orlando Gunn.

When Orlando looks back at his past, he realizes that AVID was the cornerstone that allowed him to build the dreams which are currently his reality.

"AVID prepared me to take a tougher course load, which taught me to face adversity as well as speak up during my struggles and humble myself to ask the right questions. AVID taught me the significance of giving back to my community as a kid when I didn't understand why picking up trash mattered. It was AVID that opened my eyes to college by giving the gift of college visits," he said.

For Orlando, a teacher took an interest in him as he found himself sitting alone in the lunch room of Mannheim Middle School in Mannheim, Germany. He says an AVID teacher gave him an opportunity when everyone else discounted him as the new kid, which ultimately was the catalysts to his success.

"Sometimes...an opportunity is all we need. Sometimes we just need one individual to take a chance on us...for me, that was AVID," said Orlando.
AVID students showered both Orlando and the rest of the Miami Dolphins panelist with questions such as...

What universities they attended? What was their Major selected?  And, what was their definition of success?

The panel (Left to right), was comprised of the Host: Orlando Gunn (AVID Alumni), Dave Mack (Group Sales Manager), Nick Forro (VP of Sales), Claudia Lezcano (Sr. VP Chief Marketing Officer) and Leslie Nixon (Dir. of Government and Community Affairs).

Students were given insight into the professional world of sports such as the primary functions of each department within the Miami Dolphins organization, description of a typical day on the job and even gained insight to both tough and personal struggles through each panelist's journy toward success.

With all the excitement, the learning and fun, this was truly a day to remember; a day that Orlando Gunn marks as the day he found his purpose!

Orlando D. Gunn Jr.

Life's most persistent and urgent question, 'What are you doing for others?' MLK

www.orlandogunn.com

For more information about AVID visit: http://www.avid.org/
For more information about USTAFL visit: http://www.florida.usta.com/

AVID STUDENT HIGHLIGHT! SEE IF YOU CAN SPOT YOUR FAVORITE AVID STUDENT!

 (KEEP SCROLLING :) -------------------->

Embrace Your Struggle w/ A Humble Hustle

The Time Is Now... on everything!

No need to look back. No need to worry. Keep your chin up and keep the faith high.

Regardless of your start, its all about your finish. 

Regardless of your hand, its about how you play'em.

Stop feeling sorry for yourself. 

Stop blaming others for your shortcomings. 

You were given the same breath as the next man. Despite our differences, our finances and our advantages...we share a dance with 24. Don't spend your time merely neglecting her, lounging around and wasting her youth. However, be diligent and direct with her. Treat her like a gentleman treats a lady. Understand her strengths as well as her weaknesses. Caress her slow, yet gently keep encouraging her to remain on your good side. Listen to her cries and heed her warnings...for she is a Woman, not a girl.

For every second, every minute, every hour you're sleep or wasting the hot water in the shower, I'm grinding... Like the ant...I'm still working, still building, still storing. No ruler ordering me about however its the FOMO "Fear of missing out." Like a Laser, I keep focus; Like Peter, I dare to fly. As to resuscitate, I keep the dreams alive; I keep the hustle because it enables me to survive.

I'm married to obsession, after divorcing complacency. I know who I am after being lost to my identity. If they thought I couldn't do it...take a look at me now. Don't become distracted. Don't become weary now. Eyes on the prize...no left, no right and sooner or later, I'll notice no haters in sight. 

For my ambition was always innate...it wasn't developed but enhanced. If I'm not known for anything else in this world...they're going to love me for my ambition. 

Its easy to dream a dream but whats harder than living... I'm in love with my Ambition.

Humble Hustle Stand Up!

OG

Miami Dolphins Day with OG's AVID "Young Scholars"

Dear Young Scholar,

Congratulations! Thank you! I'm proud of you! Job well done! You are special to me! Keep up the great work thus far! I'm praying for you! I believe in you! Most importantly...You are LOVED!

At this point in time...I have in no way, shape or form, "Made it!" Truth be told, I'm just getting started and just like you, my future is bright; if I might add... no brighter than yours! My life has been a constant reflection of the company I keep, constantly believing in myself, putting God first, fighting to make my dreams a reality along with having a constant relentless pursuit of hard work and Championship Effort in all I do. Oh and having my teachers, coaches and parents believe in me.

It wasn't too long ago that I had a guest speaker come and visit me. In fact, just recently I finished my Master's Degree and we'd have them every Friday for an entire year. Whether it was a former Miss America, a famous athlete or a local hero, it didn't matter; I listened. I'm here for you. This letter is to you. This moment in time is ALL for you! November 17, 2013 @ 4pm vs. the San Diego Chargers is a day to celebrate! Perhaps I was destined to be here... to encourage you; to educate you on having a humble hustle on your journey through AVID and toward success. Remember, Life is merely a constant reflection of the everyday decisions you make; I'm here to encourage you that AVID was one of your BEST decisions yet! So, keep making the right ones!

For me it was simple: Learn From Others' Mistakes, Dream Big, Trust My Struggle.

Why must you make your own mistakes when all of your friends will simply make the mistakes for you? Learn from them (your friends); they are pretty good  teachers you know. lol

Ask yourself a few questions about each one of your friends:

Are they in AVID? Do they make you happy?
Do they encourage you when you're having bad days? Are they there for you in a time of need? Do they pick on other kids at your school? Are they full of gossip and drama? Do your parents approve of them? Do they have the highest grades in your class? Do they have dreams, goals and aspirations of being great? Have they been in trouble with the law? Do they fight or steal? Lastly, do they do the right thing when no one is watching and are they pressuring you to join them?

These are a few simple questions that will help you identify both positive and negative people in your life. Regardless of where you are in life...you'll need to analyze the people around you everyday.

Dream Big: No matter what...keep dreaming. As a kid, I had several dreams. Along the way some changed and some remained the same. However, there was one dream that remained most vivid... making it to the NFL! And, I'm proud to say...almost 20 years later, its come true! #DreamDeferred

A few others were to live in Miami, attend the University of Miami, have a place to call home along the water and live near the beach...guess what? I'm living my dream! I'm not writing these things to brag and boast...its simply an inspiration for you.

If a little fat kid from the middle of nowhere Texas can transform into an AVID "Young Scholar", honor roll recipient, college graduate, national champion, masters graduate and land a job in the NFL, anything is possible. I simply allowed teachers to pour into my life. I chose wisely when it came to friends and relationships. I accepted the struggles that I had and never gave up. My father always told me, "Son, there is nothing free in this world. If you want something you've got to go get it; work for it; make it happen. And, if you do all these things, I will forever be proud of you and you; proud of yourself."

AVID Young Scholars, its my wish for you to do the very same thing. To be all you can be; To dream the biggest of dreams; To accept your misfortunes as well as embrace your struggles; To choose the right group of friends and more importantly learn from their mistakes.

In order to get something you've never had before, you've got to do something you've never done before. Enjoy the gift of life. Laugh. Love. Live. You've got it easy right now, just wait and see.

:) But just in case,

I'm here if you need me...

Former LSU Running Back & 2007 National Champion
Orlando Gunn

God Bless,

Orlando D. Gunn Jr.
Twitter: @orlandogunn
IG: @orlandeaux
Web: www.orlandogunn.com

For more information on AVID visit: http://www.avid.org/abo_whatisavid.html

Over Worked & Under Paid...its so unfair!

The struggle
The hurt
The pain
The longing
The want
The wait
The moment
The hope
The wish
The check
The opportunity
The ask
The job
The career
The chance
The risk... all the things I wonder...


In a season of life so tied up in keeping my head down, doing the job I'm tasked, becoming indispensable and leaving behind the best of my ability...  What's it all matter any way? What have I really accomplished? Why am I suffering? What do I have to show for it?

I'm trying my hardest!
I'm giving my heart.
I'm committing my soul.
I've shed the blood.
I've put in the hours and shed the tears...but for what... To Instagram it? To Tweet it? To Post it?

I ask again...But for what? Toward this? Toward an industry that churns out clones of interns second by second and year after year; just shy of running a sweatshop; claiming class credit equates hourly wages... please! They claim volunteering is a legal way to earn eager man power. They say keep your hours under 20 but they do realize that this is indeed a job in sports right?

I'm pushing my hardest for an industry the climes on the backs of the poor and placing its two left feet on the very finger tips the public has left to cling on to the side of the highest mountain we call "Life." For an industry that programed our parents to join in the get rich quick scheme of child-like warriors on Saturdays. (Note: It doesn't work but, the beauty is that every kid and every parent think that their kid is NEO...The ONE!)

These parents have mouths to feed, mortgages to pay, and loans to inherit... yet we don't care. We continue to use tax payers dollars to supply the rich and famous with "State of the Art" facilities and stadiums that are no more than play-things and hobbies for them; no more than a yo-yo pulled out of a 5th graders pocket. They throw it in our faces, do a couple of tricks for their friends in order to have their egos scratched, flex their sense of power within their poor communities and after a few years, find a sad soul who doesn't realize this yo-yo is a depreciating asset that somehow allows one to sale it for a higher price than what they bought it...does that make any sense?

In a time where the US has a Government with an "OFF-Button," where government leaders have no respect for the President of this country and continue to put pride before benefit when the letter B always comes before P and continues to deny the poor with an opportunity for health care while they've got all the health, care, money and wealth they can handle... my industry continues to raise ticket prices to the highest dollar amount known to man. Charging bogus entry fees to watch a boxing match in which two men dance around a ring and hug one another. And, if by the grace of God one of us poor souls find ourselves inside one of these amazing arenas...you better not ever think of eating inside...! Especially if you brought the family.  0_o

If so...bring the bank with you. The average bottle of water is around $5, a meal is anywhere from $12- $20 and lets not forget...you probably didn't come alone. Forget the family outings. Why are TV packages and stadiums finding that the tide has changed...well, look at these owners; take a glance at these prices....greed kills.

Greed kills your home-crowd advantage, kills the butts that were in those seats, kills the pockets to the pants to the butts in those seats, and kills the motivation to spend a day watching my community leader wave his yo-yo of a sports team in front of me an my kids. Kills opportunities to do great for our communities youth, teachers, and heroes.

Break Down: Family of 4

Tickets: Upper Levels- $40 X 4
Parking: How close??? (1/2 mile) $20 Fyi...that's if you're lucky.
A parking space cost nearly $100 in Big D around Jerry's World aka AT&T Stadium!!!
Gameday program: $15
Meals- $12 X 4 (no drinks)
Drinks- $5 X 4
Souvenirs.... Lets not go there! $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$ Better yet... you need to be the guy below for the rest of the day!

Mr. Money Team



Feel free to do the math above...
It simply cost too much to entertain your family these days and there seems to be no breaks in sight.
The rich continue to get richer and the poor continue to suffer!

All the while... the little robots making all this happen are the concession workers, security workers, ticket takers, custodians, police, EMTs, cable workers, set up crews, network employees and low and behold all the little interns... who can only wonder...?

I'm anticipating recognition.
I'm deserving of progress.
I'm doing my best.
I'm going to get a full-time offer.
I've got great contacts...

But wait...aren't I? Do I really?

Its been so long, I don't even know what long is...
Its been so hard; I don't even know what hard is...
Its been so, so, so unfair that I've cast the word "Fair" out of my vocabulary. Life is not fair!
Just because you're good at something...does that mean you're supposed to do it? Just because you're deserving of something...does that mean you're supposed to get it?
Just because you're next in line...does that mean its your turn...?

I guess you won't know until you experience it for yourself. Make sure its all worth it.

Make sure you Love it!

GENERATION NEXXT: (FYFL) Washington Park Buccanners vs. Miami Gardens Vikings Super Pee Wee RECAP 32-20

Hollywood, FL. (Washington Park)-Today's Florida Youth Football League (FYFL) Super Pee Wee matchup between the Washington Park Buccaneers and the Miami Gardens Vikings was one to remember as the Bucs sailed past the Vikings 32-20.



FYFL Bucs vs. Vikings
"Crucial Catch of Cancer"

Little Warriors 

In case you missed it, the "Super Swagger" of the FYFL was taking siege over Washington Park as the Washington Park Buccaneers played host to the Miami Gardens Vikings in their Generation Nexxt TV premier.

In support of Breast Cancer Awareness, both teams showed streaks of pink in an effort to remind us all of the importance of making the "Crucial Catch" of cancer.

For more info on Free Cancer Screenings in FL visit: http://voices.yahoo.com/where-free-cancer-screening-florida-4727874.html

Game Day Matchups 

 On paper, both teams seemed evenly matched. They both were equipped with multiple playmakers, along with athletic, running quaterbacks. Also, both teams were armed with running backs who could run like the wind. Needless to say, both coaches were very confident heading into today's contest; so much so...that when asking both coaches for one player in particular to keep an eye out for in today's game, they both replied, "All of them!"

Well... they were right! Coach Murvin Wright (top right) vs. Coach Peter Rose (bottom right) both came with one goal in mind and that was to establish the run at all cost!

Run...Boys! Run! 

Bucs No.4 Omar Gonzalez began and ended the day scoring at will against the Vikings defense. Scoring 4 TDs on 12 carries for a whopping total of 76 yards rushing and a game winning touchdown as time expired in the 4th quarter to push the Buccaneers to an undefeated 6-0.

For what seemed like a slow start for the Vikings, No.1 Elijah Hardy and No. 2 Tyquavevius Hicks manned a vicious comeback late in the 4th Qtr. Hardy finished with 2 TDs and his side-kick Hicks finished with several extra point runs and a TD of his own. However, their performances still wouldn't be enough to mount a comeback as time would soon expire late in the 4th Quarter as the Vikings suffered their first loss on the season; now at 5-1.



With every Super Pee Wee play, came a dozen Pee Wee plays; meaning a heavy dose of fumbled snaps, missed tackles, off side penalties, delay of games along with a barrage of screaming coaches who were in udder disbelief as their teams became plagued with flags and stoppage whistles.

These were simply little reminders that though these are our little warriors in pink, they are also our kids! Our future! We as leaders, as teachers, as parents and coaches are their role models. We are charged to lead by example. With that being said, I'm proud to have seen one of Miami's very own community leaders, NBA Champion of the Miami Heat, Udonis Haslem out supporting winners of the Super Pee Wee contest!

 

By: Orlando Gunn

For more information, visit the Generation Nexxt Website: www.mygennexxt.com