Another Avenue Cultural Resource Center

Nashville Women's Empowerment Series Presents

2013-06-05T16:41:00.001-07:00

Nashville Women's Empowerment

Workshop Series

"The Entrepreneurial Challenge: Reinventing Your
Business and Your Life"

This event presented by

Tennessee Alliance for Progress

This event is sponsored by

The Community Foundation
of Middle Tennessee

Date:Saturday, June 29, 2013
Time: 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM

Location: Operation Stand Down Nashville, Inc., Community Training Facility, 1125 12th Avenue South, Nashville, TN 37203

Cost: Early Bird Registration $45.00 ends on June 7, 2013

Regular Registration $75.00

The primary goals of the workshop series:

Provide aspiring entrepreneurs with the tools they need to start or grow their own businesses.

Assist and train women on how to creating economic impact as a CEO.

Help you get clear about your purpose by tapping into your passion and turning it into a profitable business

Create a strong support system and network with successful women already in business

At the Nashville Women's Empowerment Workshop you will learn:

1. Cash is Queen: 10 Strategies to Create Wealth with Your Business

2. Branding Essentials: How to use Social Media to Brand Your Products and Services

3. Developing Your Vision: Tips on how to Turn Your Passion Into Profits

4. Feel the Fear and Start Your Business Anyway

5. Planning for Your Company Success

6. Social Entrepreneurship: Owning and Operating a Green Business

7. Marketing 101: Creative Strategies to Market and Promote Your Business

8. Crowdfunding Resources and Tools to Fund Your Business

9. Tax Talk: How to Set up Your Tax Strategies and Make a Profit

10. Selecting the Right Legal Structure for Your Business

11. Things You Should Know to Protect Your Business

Who Should Attend?

· Women unhappy in their current jobs

· Women seeking a life-change

· Women desiring to start a business

· Women Business Owners

· Women Authors and Experts

· Women Networking Groups

· Women Associations

· Non-Profit Organization that focus on Women

SPECIAL OFFER: The first 10 people who register. Get a FREE copy of the e-book The Self-Publishing Process: The Beginner's Guide to Book Publishing Success.

All workshop participants will receive a Goodie Bag (upon conference check-in) that includes:

· Autographed Copy of the Book: “Creating Multiple Streams of Income with Your Products and/or Services

· Discounted services from vendors/speakers

· Gift cards from local business and much more

For more Information:

e-mail: bobbrenee@yahoo.com

Call: (615) 753-5647

REGISTER TODAY AND BE EMPOWERED

Seating is Limited

Register Today!

Please visit us at:http://ReneeBobb.com

Join Empowerment Talk for Today's Women Radio Show:
http://www.BlogTalkRadio.com/TheReneeBobbShow

Follow me on:
Twitter: www.twitter.com/ReneeBobbFacebook: www.facebook.com/ReneeBobb
Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/renee-bobb

Scholarships available!

http://nashvillewomensempowerment2013.eventbrite.com/#

What's Growing in Your Garden?

2013-05-11T00:14:00.000-07:00

GMO Awareness

2013-04-15T23:10:00.002-07:00

Monsanto’s Dirty Dozen

Posted on May 12, 2011 by GMO Awareness

When you take a moment to reflect on the history of product development at Monsanto, what do you find? Here are twelve products that Monsanto has brought to market. See if you can spot the pattern…

#1 – Saccharin

Did you know Monsanto got started because of an artificial sweetener? John Francisco Queeny founded Monsanto Chemical Works in St. Louis, Missouri with the goal of producing saccharin for Coca-Cola. In stark contrast to its sweet beginnings, studies performed during the early 1970s,* including a study by the National Cancer Institute in 1980, showed that saccharin caused cancer in test rats and mice.
After mounting pressure from consumers, the Calorie Control Council, and manufacturers of artificial sweeteners and diet sodas, along with additional studies (several conducted by the sugar and sweetener industry) that reported flaws in the 1970s studies, saccharin was delisted from the NIH’s Carcinogen List. A variety of letters from scientists advised against delisting; the official document includes the following wording to this day: “although it is impossible to absolutely conclude that it poses no threat to human health, sodium saccharin is not reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen under conditions of general usage as an artificial sweetener.” (*Read the Chemical Heritage Foundation’s History of Saccharin here.)

#2 – PCBs

During the early 1920s, Monsanto began expanding their chemical production into polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) to produce coolant fluids for electrical transformers, capacitors, and electric motors. Fifty years later, toxicity tests began reporting serious health effects from PCBs in laboratory rats exposed to the chemical.
After another decade of studies, the truth could no longer be contained: the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) published a report citing PCBs as the cause of cancer in animals, with additional evidence that they can cause cancer in humans. Additional peer-reviewed health studies showed a causal link between exposure to PCBs and non-Hodgkin Lymphoma, a frequently fatal form of cancer.
In 1979, the United States Congress recognized PCBs as a significant environmental toxin and persistent organic pollutant, and banned its production in the U.S. By then Monsanto already had manufacturing plants abroad, so they weren’t entirely stopped until the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants banned PCBs globally in 2001.
And that’s when Monsanto’s duplicity was uncovered: internal company memos from 1956 surfaced, proving that Monsanto had known about dangers of PCBs from early on.
In 2003, Monsanto paid out over $600 million to residents of Anniston, Alabama, who experienced severe health problems including liver disease, neurological disorders and cancer after being exposed to PCBs — more than double the payoff that was awarded in the case against Pacific Gas & Electric made famous by the movie “Erin Brockovich.”
And yet the damage persists: nearly 30 years after PCBs have been banned from the U.S., they are still showing up in the blood of pregnant women, as reported in a 2011 study by the University of California San Francisco.

#3 – Polystyrene

In 1941, Monsanto began focusing on plastics and synthetic polystyrene, which is still widely used in food packaging and ranked 5th in the EPA’s 1980s listing of chemicals whose production generates the most total hazardous waste.

#4 – Atom bomb and nuclear weapons

Shortly after acquiring Thomas and Hochwalt Laboratories, Monsanto turned this division into their Central Research Department. Between 1943 to 1945, this department coordinated key production efforts of the Manhattan Project—including plutonium purification and production and, as part of the Manhattan Project’s Dayton Project, techniques to refine chemicals used as triggers for atomic weapons (an era of U.S. history that sadly included the deadliest industrial accident).

#5 – DDT

In 1944, Monsanto became one of the first manufacturers of the insecticide DDT to combat malaria-transmitting mosquitoes. Despite decades of Monsanto propaganda insisting that DDT was safe, the true effects of DDT’s toxicity were at last confirmed through outside research and in 1972, DDT was banned throughout the U.S.

This chart illustrates how much dioxin an average American consumes per day

#6 – Dioxin

In 1945, Monsanto began promoting the use of chemical pesticides in agriculture with the manufacture of the herbicide 2,4,5-T (one of the precursors to Agent Orange), containing dioxin. Dioxins are a group of chemically-related compounds that since become known as one of the “Dirty Dozen” — persistent environmental pollutants that accumulate in the food chain, mainly in the fatty tissue of animals. In the decades since it was first developed, Monsanto has been accused of covering up or failing to report dioxin contamination in a wide range of its products.
#7 – Agent Orange
During the early 1960s, Monsanto was one of the two primary manufacturers of Agent Orange, an herbicide / defoliant used for chemical warfare during the Vietnam War. Except Monsanto’s formula had dioxin levels many times higher than the Agent Orange produced by Dow Chemicals, the other manufacturer (which is why Monsanto was the key defendant in the lawsuit brought by Vietnam War veterans in the United States).
(Pictured at left, Anh and Trang Nhan, with their father, when they first arrived at the Hoi An Orphanage; below are the same brothers shortly before Trang’s death. Source: Kianh Foundation Newsletter, Dec. 2011)
As a result of the use of Agent Orange, Vietnam estimates that over 400,000 people were killed or maimed, 500,000 children were born with birth defects, and up to 1 million people were disabled or suffered from health problems—not to mention the far-reaching impact it had on the health of over 3 million American troops and their offspring.
Internal Monsanto memos show that Monsanto knew of the problems of dioxin contamination of Agent Orange when it sold it to the U.S. government for use in Vietnam. Despite the widespread health impact, Monsanto and Dow were allowed to appeal for and receive financial protection from the U.S. government against veterans seeking compensation for their exposure to Agent Orange.
In 2012, a long 50 years after Agent Orange was deployed, the clean-up effort has finally begun. Yet the legacy of Agent Orange, and successive generations of body deformities, will remain in orphanages throughout VietNam for decades to come.
(Think that can’t happen here? Two crops were recently genetically engineered to withstand a weedkiller made with one of the major components of Agent Orange, 2,4-D, in order to combat “super weeds” that evolved due to the excessive use of RoundUp.)

8 – Petroleum-Based Fertilizer

In 1955, Monsanto began manufacturing petroleum-based fertilizer after purchasing a major oil refinery. Petroleum-based fertilizers can kill beneficial soil micro-organisms, sterilizing the soil and creating a dependence, like an addiction, to the synthetic replacements. Not the best addiction to have, considering the rising cost and dwindling supply of oil…

#9 – RoundUp

During the early 1970s, Monsanto founded their Agricultural Chemicals division with a focus on herbicides, and one herbicide in particular: RoundUp (glyphosate). Because of its ability to eradicate weeds literally overnight, RoundUp was quickly adopted by farmers. Its use increased even more when Monsanto introduced “RoundUp Ready” (glyphosate-resistant) crops, enabling farmers to saturate the entire field with weedkiller without killing the crops.
While glyphosate has been approved by regulatory bodies worldwide and is widely used, concerns about its effects on humans and the environment persist. RoundUp has been found in samples of groundwater, as well as soil, and even in streams and air throughout the Midwest U.S., and increasingly in food. It has been linked to butterfly mortality, and the proliferation of superweeds. Studies in rats have shown consistently negative health impacts ranging from tumors, altered organ function, and infertility, to cancer and premature death. Reference the above “GMO Risks” page which includes countless references to support these statements.

#10 – Aspartame (NutraSweet / Equal)

An accidental discovery during research on gastrointestinal hormones resulted in a uniquely sweet chemical: aspartame. During the clinical trials conducted on 7 infant monkeys as part of aspartame’s application for FDA approval, 1 monkey died and 5 other monkeys had grand mal seizures—yet somehow aspartame was still approved by the FDA in 1974. In 1985, Monsanto acquired the company responsible for aspartame’s manufacture (G.D. Searle) and began marketing the product as NutraSweet. Twenty years later, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services released a report listing 94 health issues caused by aspartame. (Watch a quick video here.)

#11 – Bovine Growth Hormone (rBGH)

This genetically modified hormone was developed by Monsanto to be injected into dairy cows to produce more milk. Cows subjected to rBGH suffer excruciating pain due to swollen udders and mastitis, and the pus from the resulting infection enters the milk supply requiring the use of additional antibiotics. rBGH milk has been linked to breast cancer, colon cancer, and prostate cancer in humans.

#12 – Genetically Modified Crops / GMOs

In the early 1990s, Monsanto began gene-splicing corn, cotton, soy, and canola with DNA from a foreign source to achieve one of two traits: an internally-generated pesticide, or an internal resistance to Monsanto’s weedkiller RoundUp. Despite decades of promises that genetically engineered crops would feed the world with more nutrients, drought resistance, or yield, the majority of Monsanto’s profits are from seeds that are engineered to tolerate Monsanto’s RoundUp—an ever-rising, dual income stream as weeds continue to evolve resistance to RoundUp.
Most sobering however, is that the world is once again buying into Monsanto’s “safe” claims.
Just like the early days of PCBs, DDT, Agent Orange, Monsanto has successfully fooled the general public and regulatory agencies into believing that RoundUp, and the genetically modified crops that help sell RoundUp, are “safe.”
Except Monsanto has learned a thing or two in the past 100+ years of defending its dirty products: these days, when a new study proving the negative health or environmental impacts of GMOs emerges, Monsanto attacks the study and its scientist(s) by flooding the media with counter claims from “independent” organizations, scientists, industry associations, blogs, sponsored social media, and articles by “private” public relations firms—frequently founded, funded and maintained by Monsanto.
Unfortunately, few of us take the time to trace the members, founders, and relationships of these seemingly valid sources back to their little Monsanto secret. (Read more on this page.)
Fooling the FDA required a slightly different approach: click on the below chart compiled by Millions Against Monsanto to see how many former Monsanto VPs and legal counsel are now holding positions with the FDA. And don’t forget Clarence Thomas, former Monsanto attorney who is now a Supreme Court Justice, ruling in favor of Monsanto in every case brought before him.

A Baker’s Dozen: #13 – Terminator Seeds

In the late 1990s, Monsanto developed the technology to produce sterile grains unable to germinate. These “Terminator Seeds” would force farmers to buy new seeds from Monsanto year after year, rather than save and reuse the seeds from their harvest as they’ve been doing throughout centuries. Fortunately this technology never came to market. Instead, Monsanto chose to require farmers to sign a contract agreeing that they will not save or sell seeds from year to year, which forces them to buy new seeds and preempts the need for a “terminator gene.” Lucky for us… since the terminator seeds were capable of cross-pollination and could have contaminated local non-sterile crops.

What’s the Result of our Monsanto Legacy?
Between 75% to 80% of the processed food you consume every day has GMOs inside, and residues of Monsanto’s RoundUp herbicide outside. But it’s not just processed food—fresh fruit and vegetables are next: genetically engineered sweet corn is already being sold at your local grocer, with apples and a host of other “natural” produce currently in field trials.
How is it that Monsanto is allowed to manipulate our food after such a dark product history? How is it they are allowed to cause such detrimental impact to our environment and our health?
According to the Organic Consumers Association, “There is a direct correlation between our genetically engineered food supply and the $2 trillion the U.S. spends annually on medical care, namely an epidemic of diet-related chronic diseases.
Instead of healthy fruits, vegetables, grains, and grass-fed animal products, U.S. factory farms and food processors produce a glut of genetically engineered junk foods that generate heart disease, stroke, diabetes and cancer—backed by farm subsidies—while organic farmers receive no such subsidies.
Monsanto’s history reflects a consistent pattern of toxic chemicals, lawsuits, and manipulated science. Is this the kind of company we want controlling our world’s food supply?
P.S. Monsanto’s not alone. Other companies in the “Big Six” include Pioneer Hi-Bred International (a subsidiary of DuPont), Syngenta AG, Dow Agrosciences (a subsidiary of Dow Chemical, BASF (which is primarily a chemical company that is rapidly expanding their biotechnology division, and Bayer Cropscience (a subsidiary of Bayer). View a complete list of companies doing genetic engineering on this website.

http://gmo-awareness.com/2011/05/12/monsanto-dirty-dozen/

It is summertime planting season once again!

2013-04-12T23:27:00.001-07:00

Here is how to reap a plentiful harvest especially for first time gardeners.

Personally, we prefer raised garden beds because they are easy to manage for children, elders, and for those who may need wheelchair accessibility. Raised beds are easy to make or you can purchase economical raised bed kit online or at most hardware or garden stores.

Use organic compost to begin your garden. Soil conditioners such as worm castings or fish emulsion will make your plant vibrant and healthy. Don’t use chemicals for pest control instead use natural organic garden friends such as ladybugs or Dio Tenacious earth.

Easy plants to begin with are herbs (parsley, mint, chives, oregano, basil etc.) , tomatoes, cucumbers, squash, beans, beans, okra, or peas). Make sure to use non-gmo organic seed or seedlings.

Herbs do not necessarily require direct sunlight, however most of your vine plants do. Be sure your plants get enough water, but be careful not to over water.

Growing your own food can help reduce your grocery budget, it is healthier for you, the entire family can enjoy planting together, and it is a great stress reliever.

Enjoy your summer, love your garden and reap a plentiful harvest!

Helpful Links:

http://www.biconet.com/

http://raisedbeds.com/raised-beds/?utm_medium=cpc&utm_source=Google&utm_term=raised_garden_bed_kits&utm_campaign=raisedbeds&kwid=122898bcc20a462d85491f4f07ce250a

http://www.seedsofchange.com/

http://www.rareseeds.com/

http://sustainableseedco.com/

http://www.pennystomatoes.com/blog.html

Free Empowerment Conference Call

2013-03-29T07:17:00.002-07:00

On behalf of Tennessee Alliance for Progress, RBI Enterprise Inc., and Another Avenue Cultural Resource Center, we send a very special THANK YOU to everyone who attended the Nashville Women's Empowerment Workshop March 16, 2013, we had an awesome time and hope to see everyone again at the next event.

With that being stated, please join us on Tuesday April 2, 2013 for a free conference call to answer any Ecopreneur questions you may have.

You must register your attendance by email to: aanaturalfoods@gmail.com.

Please include your name and phone number, also list 3 questions you would like to have answered. We will incorporate your questions in the conference call discussion.

Space is limited so please register!

Below is the Conference call details.

Date and Time:	04/02/2013, 07:00 PM (Tuesday)
	(UTC-06:00) Central Time (US & Canada)
Conference Access Number:	1-218-632-0776
Conference Passcode:	1104

Until next time, we look forward to hearing you on the conference call!

Nashville Women's Empowerment Workshop

2013-01-28T20:37:00.000-08:00

Nashville Women's Empowerment

Workshop

Pursuing Your Passion

With

PURPOSE and POWER

Saturday, March 16, 2013

8:00 AM to 2:00 PM

The Goodwill Lifsey Training Center

937 Herman Street, Nashville, TN 37208

The primary goals of the workshop series is to:

· Provide aspiring entrepreneurs with the tools they need to start or grow their own businesses.

· Assist and train women on how to creating economic impact as a CEO.

· Help you get clear about your purpose by tapping into your passion and turning it into a profitable business.

· Create a strong support system and network with successful women already in business.

Workshop Topics Include:

1. Overcoming the FEAR when starting a business.

2. Getting rid of PROCRASTINATION and launching your business.

3. Social Media 101: Understanding Social Media and how to use it

4. Effective Networking Strategies to GROW your business

5. Entrepreneurship 101: The set-by-step Process to Starting a Business

6. 10 Steps to Writing a Business Plan

7. Time Management: Master Strategies to get the Most of Your Time

8. Creative Strategies to Securing MONEY

9. Grant Writing

10. Should you Start a Non-Profit?

DATE: Saturday, March 16, 2013

TIME: 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM

COST: $45.00 Early Bird Registration Ends January 31, 2013

$75.00 Regular Registration

$125.00 Vendor Table (Only 5 Tables Remaining)

LOCATION: Goodwill Industries of Middle Tennessee, Inc

The Goodwill Lifsey Training Center (Training Facility)

937 Herman Street, Nashville, TN 37208

Who Should Attend:

· Women unhappy in their current jobs

· Women seeking a life-change

· Women desiring to start a business

· Women Business Owners

· Women Authors and Experts

· Women Networking Groups

· Women Associations

· Non-Profit Organization that focus on Women

SPECIAL OFFER: The first 10 people who register. Get a FREE copy of the e-book Financial Empowerment: A Practical Approach to Getting Your Financial Life in Order

All workshop participants will receive a Goodie Bag (upon conference check-in) that includes:

· Autographed Copy of the Book: Attract More Clients and Make More Money in 2013

· Discounted services from vendors/speakers

· Gift cards from local business

· and much more

To Register:

· Fill out: Attached Registration form and mail it to

R.B.I. Enterprise, P.O. Box 583, Hermitage, TN 37076

· Call: (615) 753-5647

· E-mail: bobbrenee@yahoo.com

· Online: www.nashvillewomensempowerment.eventbrite.com/

· Visit: http://www.ReneeBobb.com

Seating is Limited

Register Today!

Click to listen to Renee Bobb interview Empowered Woman, Trazana Staples

Empowered Women Trazana Staples

Trazana Staples is the Founder /Executive Director of Another Avenue Cultural Resource Center, Ecopreneur Coach, Author, and song writer. She wants to fulfill her passion to help and support the community in provide healthy food and nutritional education to the North Nashville ‘Food Desert’ while enlightening the community to a natural healthy way of living. She has over fifteen years of progressive administration and management experience working as a community organizer with various community organizations. Currently she serves on the Advisory board for Nashville Green Lab. Formally served as the project coordinator for Tennessee Alliance for Progress, Women in Green Jobs. She also has a certification in Permaculture.

How Can We Become the Change We Seek in the World?

2012-12-23T16:42:00.000-08:00

On the 21^st of December many were expecting the world as we know it to end. Many hoped that the suffering that most of us are enduring would have ended. Unfortunately, people are still sick, bills are still due, and many are still unemployed.

This is not a blog of doom, but of enlightenment and encouragement. Life still goes on. There has indeed been a shift; a shift of consciousness. Many are beginning to ask questions and seek ways to improve or make their lives more fulfilling and happier. Life as we know it has and can change for those who seek change. As quoted by Mahatma Gandhi: “You must be the change you wish to see in the world”.

We can change by changing our minds to be healthier, more prosperous, more loving, and more peaceful. We can seek a deeper insight with all that we have right now. We must all become activist for clean land, clean air and clean water. Everyone no matter what race, culture, or economic status needs and deserves a clean Mother Earth. We take so much for granted and carelessly waste what nature has given to us freely. The dumping of toxic waste pollutes our waters, air, and land due to our toxic wasteful habits which in turn causes us to be unhealthy.

For those that choose healthy lifestyles, we can begin by choosing healthier foods. Making sure that more greens (kale, spinach, collards, turnips), fruits, and other vegetables are on your dinner table, grown by yourself or local growers. Not only will this ensure healthy food for you and your family but it will also help empower local growers and help boost the economy tremendously while reducing our carbon footprint (less carbon emitted in the air from trucks transporting food). Make sure you read food labeling so that the unsuspecting will know exactly what they are eating. Drink plenty of clean water, and nowadays, a water filter should be in every household. The driving force of the foods industry are the people; supply and demand. When “WE the People” as a whole begin to change our way of eating, then the food industry and our environment will change in a positive way.

Equip yourself with knowledge to incorporate more natural options to your life by reading online periodicals such as; Natural Woman Magazine, Grist Magazine, Natural Awakenings Magazine, Natural News, and Mother Earth News. Support organizations who lead in education and environmental advocacy such as, Another Avenue Cultural Resource Center, EarthMatters Networks TN , National Resource Defense Council, The Sierra Club, Green for All, Nashville Urban Green Lab, and Tennessee Alliance for Progress. Staying informed will help you to make healthier choices and decisions for yourself and your family which will ultimately help improve and conserve Mother Earth.

Finally, to be healthy requires a healthy mind, body, and spirit daily lifestyle. Surround yourself with positive thoughts, people, and activities to help stimulate and bring balance to your life. Chefs and natural healers make the transition easy with easy recipes, Universal practices, and information that are easily accessible on the internet. Dr. Jeff Menzise (J.Menaq), Djehuty Ma’at Ra, Dr. Dr. Llaila O. Afrika, Chef Ahki, and Queen Afua, to name a few, will help you get started as we embrace this shift and move into year 2013.

"The world will not be destroyed by people who do evil, but by those who watch them by not doing anything”-Albert Einstein

Enjoy life and live healthy and happy!

Peace, Love, and Light!

Trazana

Green Jobs for Women Empowerment Meet up

2012-08-24T09:20:00.000-07:00

Hey Ladies,

It's that time again.....
Come join us for the Green Jobs for Women Empowerment meet up

Tuesday September 11, 2012 at 6:30 p.m.
Goodwill Lifsey Center
1015 Herman Street
Nashville, Tennessee 37208

Group topics include: Social Networking, promoting, and marketing

Come out and network, exchange, and learn some 1-on- 1 information to move your green business to the 21st Century with Social Media and networking

For more information:

Phone (615) 852-6203

Email: aanaturalfoods@gmail.com

Green Jobs for Women Empowerment Meet Up is sponsored in part by: Tennessee Alliance for Progress, Another Avenue Cultural Resource Center, and R.B. I. Enterprise

Events, News & More!

2012-08-14T13:03:00.000-07:00

Mark your calendars

Fortune Bag
it is believed that placing
this in the front home or business
will attract wealth

Weekend Porcelain Sale

Porcelain Fundraiser

EVERYTHING MUST GO!

August 18~ 19th & 24th ~25th

Another Avenue Cultural Resource Center

1104 33rd Ave N

Nashville, Tennessee 37209

615-852-6203

Egyptian Porcelain

Congratulations Trazana!

We would like to congratulate our Founder Trazana Staples for being accepted to the Vermont Law School for the Masters in Environmental Law and Policy Program

Welcome our new editions

We would like to introduce our newest members of the Another Avenue Cultural Resource Center family... Please welcome Zion & Zavion Hall born July 26, 2012 weighing in at 5lbs 13 oz. Mother and babies are doing great. read the amazing journey of being born naturally CLICK HERE

Remember Another Avenue Cultural Resource Center is available for Healthy Living & Ecopreneurship Presentations for more info on scheduling please call 615-852-6203

Green Jobs for Women Empowerment Pot Luck Brunch

2012-07-12T12:51:00.001-07:00

Hey Ladies,

Do you own your own business? Thinking about starting a business? Want to network and meet like minded women who already have their GREEN business?

Be at the next

Green Jobs for Women Empowerment

Pot Luck Brunch

R.S.V.P. CLICK HERE

Saturday, July 28, 2012 10am-12 pm

Goodwill Lifsey Center

1015 Herman St.
Nashville, TN 37208

Bring your favorite brunch dish, exchange, network and learn some one on one information to move your green business into the 21st Century with social media and networking.

R.S.V.P. CLICK HERE

For more information:
Phone: (615) 852-6203
email:aanaturalfoods@gmail.com

FYI: We are upgrading

2012-07-10T11:19:00.001-07:00

Peace, Love & Light!

We would like to thank everyone for your continued support for Another Avenue Cultural Resource Center. Another Avenue Cultural Resource Center is currently relocating, reorganizing,redefining, and rebuilding. Due to this new phase we are postponing all gardening workshops and any other events held at Another Avenue Cultural Resource Center until further notice. However, we are still available for healthy living and ecopuneurship presentations. We will continue to post healthy living green tips on anotheraveueculturalresourcecenter@blogspot.com, Facebook, and Twitter pages.

Thank you for your support

2012-05-24T07:57:00.002-07:00

Nashville Women’s Empowerment

Workshop Series

"Creating Economic Impact through Entrepreneurship"

No more excuses it’s time to turn your dream of owning and operating a business into reality. If you have always had the desire to start your own business and you are ready to make a positive change in your life, than you are invited to attend the upcoming Nashville Women’s Empowerment Workshop Series to be held on Saturday, June 30, 2012, 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM at The Goodwill Lifsey Training Center, 937 Herman Street, Nashville, TN 37208.

The primary goal of the workshop series is to:

·         Provide aspiring entrepreneurs with the tools they need to start or grow their own businesses.
·         Assist and train women how to creating economic impact as a CEO.
·         Help you get clear about your purpose by tapping into your passion and turning it into a profitable business.
·         Create a strong support system and to network with successful women already in business.

KEYNOTE SPEAKER: Darrell Knoch
www.truewealthuniversity.com

MEET DARRELL KNOCH—Top-Ten Amazon best-selling author ofMastering a Healthy Self-Image: The Guidebook to Real Happiness and Enormous Success. It is an inspirational yet practical blueprint for overcoming adversity, achieving unstoppable self-confidence, and attaining your goals for personal and professional success. Darrell’s story of personal transformation and astounding success is both poignant and inspirational. It is a tale of triumph—how a disfigured, abused, and emotionally scarred boy, raised on welfare, rose to amazing heights in the business world and became a self-made multi-millionaire. Darrell earned two patents, become an entrepreneur who took 5 companies national and international and generated billions of dollars in revenue, and then went on to become an investor, real estate authority, financier, public speaker, author, and mentor to many. His story will leave you impressed, inspired, and amazed!

Visit Darrell Knoch web site www.truewealthuniversity.com

Workshop Leaders:

Feleesha Page Johnson, Director of the Tennessee Small Business Development Center located at Austin Peay State Universitywww.tsbdc.org

Lenore Gilbert, Mary Kay Sales Director for over 9 years, Owner of A and L Cleaning Services as well as Realtor with Century 21.www.marykay.com/lgilbert3

Renee Bobb, CEO of R.B.I. Enterprise, Radio and TV Talk Show Host, Empowerment Coach and Trainer for several non-profit agencies. She is also the author of 9 books. www.ReneeBobb.com

Trazana Staples, Author and CEO of Another Avenue Cultural Resource Center http://www.anotheravenueculturalresourcecenter.blogspot.com

Kia Jarmon, Creative Director with The MEPR Agency which specialize in public relations, branding and special events www.mepragency.com

Teri N. Harrison, Founder and Managing Attorney with Tennessee Business Law Center. Teri is a Small Business Expert, Legal Consultant & Leadership Coach.
http://www.tnbusinesslawcenter.com

Workshop Topics Include:

1.      How to overcome the fear and challenges when starting a business?
2.   How to identify a need in the market place and fill it?
3.   How to do what you love and get paid for it?
4.   Creative strategies to raising money to start your own business
5.   How to use Social Media such as Facebook, Linkedin and Twitter to grow your business
6.   Too Many Ideas: How to identify the best type of business to start?
7.   Customer Service 101: How to find and keep customers?
8.   What does a Business Plan Need to Include?
9.    Marketing 101: How to effectively Brand your products and services?
10. Social Entrepreneurs owning and operating a GREEN business
11. How to Build a Mastermind-Support Group
12. How to Create a 30-day Focus & Money Making Plan

DATE:           Saturday, June 30 2012
TIME:            9:00 AM to 3:00 PM
COST:            $45.00 Early Bird Registration Special Offer! Ends on May 15, 2012
                        $75.00 Regular Registration
                        $99.00 VIP Registration which include:
·         Front row seating at the event
·         FREE Autographed copy of Darrell Knoch’s book Healthy Self-Image: the Guidebook to Real Happiness and Enormous Success
·         Gratitude Coin from Author, Darrell Knoch
·         Special VIP Pre-event dinner featuring Darrell Knoch and all workshop speakers.

LOCATION: Goodwill Industries of Middle Tennessee, Inc, The Goodwill Lifsey Training Center (Training Facility) 937 Herman Street, Nashville, TN 37208.

When you register you will receive a FREE copy of the book:Mastering a Healthy Self-Image: The Guidebook to Real Happiness and Enormous Success.

Women In Green Jobs, Empowerment Brunch

2012-05-22T12:17:00.001-07:00

Please join us for brunch as we form our Women In Green Jobs, Empowerment group to share information and resources for our business.

When: Saturday, June 9 from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM

Where: Shoney's Resturaunt Shoney's
110 Interstate Dr Nashville, TN 37213

Our conversation is free of charge, however brunch is on your own. Shoney's Breakfast Buffett is $10.99 per person.

Please RSVP via email by May 31, 2012 to ensure seating : aanaturalfoods@gmail.com

For more information please to not hesitate to call 615-485-2663

Thank you!

Renee Bobb, R.B.I. Enterprise

Nell Levine, Tennessee Alliance for Progress

Trazana A. Staples, Another Avenue Cultural Resource Center

Love Fest Youth Service Community Day 2012! Thank you!

2012-04-25T19:05:00.001-07:00

A heartfelt Thank You!!!!

To everyone who came out and participated in

Love Fest 2012!

We had a blast!

Check out the our wonderful pictures!

LOVE FEST 2012

2012-03-14T20:06:00.001-07:00

Love Fest
Youth Service
Community Day 2012!

We know that we can not succeed in providing a healthier way of life for the Historic North Nashville community without LOVE and YOU!
Love Fest, Youth Service Community is scheduled for

Sunday, April 22, 2012

11am-4pm

Free admission to all!

Love Fest, Youth Service Community Day is a entire day of family fun with various activities such as healthy food demonstrations, spring planting, composting, children’s activities, natural living expo, and a silent auction at 1104 33^rd Avenue N., Nashville, Tennessee 37209.

This is a family fun Free event!

For More Information about Another Avenue Cultural Resource Center's Events, long onto :www.anotheravenueculturalresourcecenter@blogspot.com

(615) 852-6203

Pictures of Love Fest 2011

'From Self LOVE to Matrimony'- Relationship & Intimacy Seminar

2012-02-13T20:20:00.000-08:00

Mind on the Matter in partnership with
Another Avenue Cultural Resource Center
PRESENTS...

Dr. Jeff Menzise; Doctor of Clinical Psychology
Relationship Expert, Spiritual Life Coach

Saturday
March 24, 2012
1pm-5pm
NASHVILLE FRIENDS
MEETING HOUSE

From Self-Love to Matrimony
Relationship and Intimacy Seminar
Learn:
• How to break the dysfunctional relationship cycle.
• How to enhance and improve your current relationship.
• Techniques for cultivating sexual energy.
•Methods for improving sexual and reproductive health.
• The TRUE meaning ofLove
• And much more...

Cost: Love Offering ($2 minimum to cover meeting space)
Individual Consultations Available: (Must schedule in advance)
-Personality & Sexual Compatibility
-Relationship Ready: Self Improvement Plans
-Holistic Regimen for Reproductive & Sexual Health -Etc.
Pre-Register! Seating is limited!!!
Mind on the Matter

For more info contact:
240-988-9639
dr.jeff@mindonthematter.com
www.mindonthematter.com

Nashville Women's Empowerment Workshop Series

2012-02-03T18:35:00.000-08:00

No more excuses, it’s time to turn your dream of owning and operating a business into reality. If you have the desire to start your own business, you are ready to make a positive change, attend The Nashville Women’s Empowerment Workshop Series

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

PRLog (Press Release) - Feb 03, 2012 -

Nashville, TN: February 1, 2012 - On March 17, 2012- Announcing the launch of the cutting- edge and trend- setting Nashville Women’s Empowerment Workshop Series. The theme for the Nashville event is “Creating Economic Impact through Entrepreneurship.” The workshop is the first of its series, which is inspired by the books authored by Renee Bobb herself called Start Smart: A Women’s Entrepreneur Guide to Starting a Business. Upon registration each workshop participant will receive a complimentary autographed copy.

The Nashville Women’s Empowerment Workshop Series was created to supply women with the necessary tools to become a competitive and successful entrepreneur. Empowering everyday women who are having a challenging time securing employment and meeting the financial needs of the household has been the driving force, said Renee. I want to encourage the participants to tap into their passion and turn it into a profitable business. Even if they have to start part- time and transform it into a full- time industry. Our mission is to train women on how to become a CEO and, then, capitalizing on its intrinsic rewards. The women will obtain a clear appreciation for their purpose and how to execute it efficiently.

Who should attend this event? -Women who are unhappy in their current jobs or desire to start a business. The workshop also accommodates women seeking a life- change or even women who are current authors/experts and business owners. The event will cover a variety of topics to include; how to start a business, creative financial resources to start a business, overcoming the fear and challenges when starting a business, building a support system to help you start your business and create a step- by- step income generating process that will produce results. The women’s empowerment event embraces a compilation of opportunities for women on the rise.

Guest Speakers Include:

Lenore Gilbert, Mary Kay Sales Director for over 9 years, Owner of A and L Cleaning Services as well as Realtor with Century 21. www.marykay.com/lgilbert3

Renee Bobb, CEO of R.B.I. Enterprise, Radio and TV Talk Show Host, Empowerment Coach and Trainer for several non-profit agencies. She is also the author of 9 books. www.ReneeBobb.com

Ann Haney, Best Selling Author and Motivational Speaker. She is also the CEO of Living Abundance Couponing and Aaron Publishing Company www.aaronpublishing.com

Trzana Staples, Author and CEO of Another Avenue Cultural Resource Center http://www.anotheravenueculturalresourcecenter.blogspot.com

Date: March 17, 2012
Time: 9:30am to 3:00pm.
Cost: $45 Early Bird Registration (before February 18, 2012)
$75 Regular Registration
Location: Goodwill Industries of Middle Tennessee, Inc. The Goodwill Lifsey Training Center, 937 Herman St. Nashville, TN 37208

Light Breakfast and Lunch will be provided

For more information about the Nashville Women’s Empowerment Workshop Series, visit http://www.nashvilleempowermentworkshop.eventbrite.com

R.B.I. Enterprise is an Empowerment Training and Development Firm that specializes in Financial Empowerment, Career Development, Small Business Coaching and Book Publishing Training. Renee is the host of the weekly Radio Show called, “Empowerment Talk for Today’s Women,” which airs on 760AM The Gospel in Nashville, TN and www.BlogTalkRadio.com/TheReneeBobbShow. She is also the author and publisher of 9 books. For more information contact us via email at bobbrenee@yahoo.com or by phone (615) 753- 5647.

Health advocate plants seeds of change in North Nashville neighborhood Personal transformation inspires Trazana Staples to share knowledge with others

2012-02-01T05:31:00.000-08:00

The kitchen table was filled with color on family night at Trazana Staples’ house.

Staples’ daughter Erica chopped spinach as son-in-law Roy stirred a sizzling pot of red and green pepper with onion. Staples prepared a kale salad while her grandson Joseph, 8, zipped through the kitchen carrying the peel from a banana.

“Is this for compost?” he asked of a bag by the back door heading out to Staples’ 15 garden beds.

After turning from fast-food to a diet of fresh vegetables — and losing more than 140 pounds — Staples has become an advocate for healthier eating in her North Nashville neighborhood, one of the largest food deserts in the city. She founded an organization called Another Avenue Cultural Resource Center that she hopes will help engage her neighbors. So for this month’s installment of Nashville Cooks, Staples invited us to her home for family night to show us how she prepares a healthy, simple Mexican feast for six — with plenty of leftovers — for less than $50.

“I’m discovering food in a whole new light — it’s a mind, body and spirit journey.”

Healthy changes

Just a few years ago, Staples weighed more than 300 pounds. And though she had tried to lose weight with Weight Watchers and diet pills, her health continued to decline. She’d had multiple surgeries in her 20s and 30s and had been diagnosed with high blood pressure and as pre-diabetic. Her doctor warned her that she needed to decide whether to live or die.

Then in 2007, Staples saw the movie Food Inc., and began making connections with those in the local food community. She also focused on growing her own food, a skill she had learned from her 103-year-old grandfather in Ohio. “I’ve been around the garden all my life,” she said.

And indeed, when she asked him the secret to his longevity, he had two tips: He grew everything he ate, she said, and he didn’t chase women.

These days, Staples says she grows her food or finds it at the farmers’ market. While her winter garden includes turnip greens, mustard greens, kale, garlic and fava beans, she’ll later have strawberries, blackberries, herbs, corn, peas, beans, tomatoes, cucumbers, squash, sweet potatoes and anything else she can fit on her half-acre of land near Tennessee State University.

But in addition to growing food as her grandfather does, Staples takes health a step further by preparing food, whether it be Mexican or soul food, in healthy ways. She’ll saute greens in olive oil, for example, rather than cook them for hours in animal fat.

Inspiring others

On her weekly family night, Staples invites her children and grandchildren for a meal.

“We cook, eat, probably watch a movie, talk,” Erica said.

“And enjoy family,” her husband Roy added.

So as Erica heated tortillas in a pan, filling them with the sauteed vegetables, Staples added dressing to her kale salad.

She named the healthy properties of the green — such as antioxidants — as she worked. Then, as they filled plates for the children, they opened the quesadillas and added chopped spinach and mashed avocado. It’s these easy but effective lessons that make Staples’ message strong, and she hopes her kitchen and garden will become a resource center for those in her community, which has a high rate of unemployment and diet-related illnesses.

“Because I’ve been able to help myself,” she said, “I want to be able to share it with others.”

She hopes to empower her neighbors and encourage them to take responsibility for their health through Another Avenue’s programs, which could include a natural foods co-op.

“Once you start applying it to your life every day, it becomes easier. I feel good,” she said. “Anyone can do it, and I love food.”

Written by:Jennifer JustusThe Tennessean

http://www.tennessean.com/article/20120201/LIFE02/302010097/Health-advocate-plants-seeds-change-North-Nashville-neighborhood?odyssey=nav|head

Soul food survivor: The transformation of Trazana Staples

2012-01-24T18:34:00.000-08:00

Grist is proud to present the Change Gang — profiles of people who are leading change on the ground toward a more sustainable society and a greener planet. Some we’ve written about before; some are new to our pages. Some you’ll have heard of; most you probably won’t. Know someone we should add to the Change Gang? Tell us why.

In her backyard in Nashville, Tenn., Trazana Staples is growing turnip greens, mustard, kale, and two kinds of garlic (white and Siberian). “That’s the winter garden,” she says, with a tone of pleased satisfaction.

Her vegetable patch isn’t just a good source of produce. For Staples, it’s a daily reminder that profound personal change is possible.

Ten years ago, says Staples, her idea of “eating healthy” was to choose the chicken sandwich instead of the burger at McDonald’s. And it wasn’t working. Only 5 feet 4 inches, Staples weighed 325 pounds and suffered from a host of fitness-related medical problems. Before she turned 40, she’d already had her gallbladder removed and had a hysterectomy. Her doctor was warning her “that I had to decide whether I was going to live or die.”

She began trying to stick to a diet, but after losing weight, she’d quickly gain it back. “I was like a yo-yo,” she recalls, ruefully.

Then, one day in 2007, she went to a local theater that specialized in independent films and saw Food, Inc., the documentary on the dark side of the industrial food system.

“That movie totally changed my everything,” remembers Staples. “I saw how healthy food is connected to the environment — there are no ifs, ands, or buts about it. And from that point on, I got involved.”

“I started learning how to blend and prepare my food. I began eating a lot of raw foods, fruits and vegetables, healthy food, tasty food. One of the challenges is to maintain our culture in natural foods, and I found that I can do that. I can keep my greens, and prepare them in a healthy way and they still taste good, and I can prepare my cornbread without the eggs, without the butter, and without the milk, and still have my soul food meal.”

Staples not only managed to change her eating habits once and for all (she has lost 120 pounds, and counting); she also remade herself into a crusader for healthy, sustainable food in her own community. She founded Another Avenue Cultural Resource Center to spread the new gospel and joined a half-dozen local progressive advocacy organizations.

The deck is still stacked against her. North Nashville, she says, is home to the largest “food desert” in Davidson County — a vast region where the only outlets for residents to buy groceries are corner stores that are more likely to sell fried potato wedges than bananas or apples. Even worse, notes Staples’ business partner, Bryan Trotter, some of the stores within driving distance that do sell organic food don’t accept food stamps for their produce. That places low income people who want to upgrade their diets in a double bind. To top it all off, for the last two years, Staples was pushing her healthy eating agenda with the help of a grant from the Tennessee Alliance for Progress — but when that group lost its funding, she lost hers.

But there’s no defeating Trazana Staples. She still intends, eventually, to turn the Another Avenue Cultural Resource Center into a natural foods store. She and Trotter have set plans in motion to create what they call a “Village of Industry” — a network of cooperative businesses based on sustainability that will provide sorely needed green jobs in an economically depressed area. In January, she kicked off Fruits Over French Fries, a new program targeting childhood obesity.

“I had to get a full-time job to keep the ship afloat until we get more funds,” acknowledges Staples. “We do have some people that give donations, or they come and do some physical labor; building garden beds or the compost bin or planting and composting, and all of that makes a difference, little by little. Rome wasn’t built in a day — these things take time. We have to change the mindset, and the best way to do that is for people to actually see you living it, doing it and applying those principles in your life. “

Andrew Leonard is a staff writer at Salon. He lives in Berkeley, California with his two children and likes to ride his bicycle.

http://grist.org/food/soul-food-survivor-the-transformation-of-trazana-staples/

2012-01-11T20:18:00.000-08:00

Let’s E.A.T.T.™

Fruits Over French Fries will kick off on Saturday, January 14, 2012 11am-2pm with an overview and open house of our project for Youth Service America & United Health Care at Another Avenue Cultural Resource Center and continue every Saturday until Saturday, April 21, 2012.

During MLK Day and Global Youth Day, children will be taught the importance of giving back, caring for the earth and caring for each other. In teaching G.R.A.C.E (gardening, recycling, activism/action, composting, education) children will learn how to keep valuable vegetable and fruit peels from going into landfills. Winter leaves and vegetation to be composted make soil and prepare garden beds for spring planting. We will also engage helping elders in the community who need help with minor yard work, or minor task outside their homes. In addition will provide homework tutoring and a healthy snack.

Another Avenue Cultural Resource Center

1104 33^rd Avenue N

Nashville, TN 37209

For more information please call (615) 852-6203

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Contacts: Michelle Pendoley

Youth Service America

202-650-5064

mpendoley@ysa.org

Trazana A. Staples

Another Avenue Cultural Resource Center

aanaturalfoods@gmail.com

615-862-6203

ANOTHER AVENUE CULTURAL RESOURCE CENTER RECEIVES YSA,

UNITEDHEALTH GROUP ‘HEROES’ GRANT

Youth-Led Project Addresses Childhood Obesity, Encourages Healthy Lifestyle in Nashville as Part of Global Youth Service Day

Nashville, Tennessee – January 10,2012 – Trazana A. Staples Founder/Executive Director at ANOTHER AVENUE CULTURAL RESOURCE CENTER in NASHVILLE, was awarded a $500 UnitedHealth HEROES Grant from YSA (Youth Service America) and UnitedHealth Group. UnitedHealth HEROES grants support youth-led service-learning initiatives addressing childhood obesity and healthy lifestyles.

One of 282 grants awarded nationwide, Trazana’s project; Fruits Over French Fries© will teach children will be taught the importance of giving back, caring for the earth and caring for each other . The semester-long initiative culminates on April 21 with Global Youth Service Day, the world’s largest and longest-running youth-led service campaign.

“These grants were extremely competitive, and Fruits Over French Fries© exemplifies service-learning and the UnitedHealth HEROES program,” said Steve Culbertson, President and CEO of YSA. “Young people in Nashville want to make a difference, and UnitedHealth Group, in conjunction with YSA, offers them resources to make a positive, measurable impact on their community.”

In its 24^th year, Global Youth Service Day (GYSD) engages millions of young people via partnerships with schools and community and faith-based organizations. Projects and events will occur in more than 100 countries and all 50 states, and will address the most challenging local, national and global issues facing the world including health, literacy, childhood hunger and the environment.

“We believe that children are uniquely positioned to come up with creative ideas to help their peers in the fight against obesity and to encourage healthier living,” said Kate Rubin, UnitedHealth Group vice president of Social Responsibility. “With UnitedHealth HEROES, we are helping young people take action to improve their overall health and quality of life in a way that’s not only educational, but beneficial for their entire community.”

“UnitedHealth HEROES is part of UnitedHealth Group’s overall commitment to help stem the rising tide of obesity, and related chronic health conditions like diabetes,” said Rubin.

(more)

For more information about Fruits Over French Fries© visit www.anotheravenueculturalresourcecenter@blogspot.com. For more information about Youth Service America and Global Youth Service Day, visit www.YSA.org.

# # #

Another Avenue Cultural Resource Center provides healthy living education and resources to address critical health issues such as obesity, diabetes, and hypertension

YSA (Youth Service America) improves communities worldwide by increasing the number and the diversity of young people, ages 5-25, serving in substantive roles. Founded in 1986, YSA supports a global culture of engaged youth committed to a lifetime of service, learning, leadership, and achievement. The impact of YSA’s work through service and service-learning is measured in student achievement, workplace readiness, and healthy communities. For more information, visit www.YSA.org.

UnitedHealthcare is dedicated to helping people nationwide live healthier lives by simplifying the health care experience, meeting consumer health and wellness needs, and sustaining trusted relationships with care providers. The company offers the full spectrum of health benefit programs for individuals, employers and Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries, and contracts directly with more than 650,000 physicians and care professionals and 5,000 hospitals nationwide. UnitedHealthcare serves more than 38 million people and is one of the businesses of UnitedHealth Group (NYSE: UNH), a diversified Fortune 50 health and well-being company.

Looking At The World With My Sunglasses’ Off

2011-12-29T14:01:00.001-08:00

Today was an ordinary day for me. Waking up, making things ( wo)manifest into my life. Every now again there are obstacles that I must overcome. Like this morning, my electricity was disconnected yesterday. I knew it was coming, I haven’t paid my bill since October and there was no need for me to call NES and try to make arrangements, because I knew I could not keep any commitments. I had utilized the one time social service help for the year. I don’t to anyone’s church, mosque, or temple in this matrix. My money has been slow, trying to keep my ship afloat. Yes, I am dealing with some life issues, however, I know this temporary set back will change so I remain positive and “keep it movin”. So, this morning, I woke up at 7am, did my daily restroom rituals in cold water, meditated, envisioned my electricity being restored, and drank my water and headed off to get my service turned back on. I put on my sunglasses because the sun was very bright and began walking. I stopped at Harpers Restaurant to indulge in a very unhealthy breakfast. I talked myself into it, “Hell you will walk it off today, besides you will start your detox after your birthday” So, I ordered coffee, grits, hash browns and fish…yes fish! I said.” fuck it today!” I had to send the hash browns back because they were cold and old. As I ate the rest, I charged my phone, texted a couple friends, and reflected on how my day would turn out.

Walking up Jefferson I go. I received a call from a dear brotha friend of mine who was able to help me see something else on another personal matter. As I walked up to Rosa Parks and Jefferson to Regions Bank on the corner. I withdrew my remaining balance of $200 to pay an electric bill that required $305.10 to reconnect. I already knew I could not give them all of it because a Sista has to eat and black bean chili was on my menu since I could not prepare it yesterday. I left Regions and went to the NES Customer Service Station on Monroe and 9^th all for the customer service agent to politely tell me I would have to go to the Church St Main Office to make payment arrangements or pay the full amount of the bill. So I headed out to Jefferson S. again with my sunglasses on to catch the next bus downtown. I purchased an all day MTA Bus pass. I stopped and purchased a homeless news paper, and entered onto the bus #29. I reflected on my friends who came to me within in the last few days seeking a ear and shoulder to cry on because they too are going through some life altering changes. I looked around the bus and saw many things but I was the only one with sunglasses on. I saw a man sippin on a bottle of brandy, I started to ask him to slip some in my coffee, and decided that would not be a good idea. I saw a lady I passed on Jefferson St. three times, on the same bus. Finally I made it downtown to transfer to the #10 bus to take me to NES Main Office. I had made up in my mind that all I could give them to reconnect my service would be $150. I waited to speak to a customer service representative and after speaking with her supervisor; my service would be reconnected for $166.78. I had it so I paid. With about $15 left, I could stop by the farmers market on my way home. As I went back out to the bus stop with my sunglasses on, an older gentleman who was on the #29 with me had the same disconnect notice except his power was not disconnected like mine. He was an older gentleman who shared with me that he had been unemployed for over a year. All of this was new to him. I asked him about going into business for himself. His reply was; ” how can I do that? All I know how to do is work for someone else and they are not hiring anyone my age these days.” The #10 come back to pick us up, and I get off on 5^th Street to walk to the Farmers’ Market with my sunglasses on. I went to my favorite vendor and

friends at Hardy’s Produce. I saw 6 over ripe tomatoes on a table, I asked, “Brotha Hardy, what’s wrong with these tomatoes? He replied, “Oh Sista T, they are too ripe to sell”. I said, “ I will kindly take them off your hands”. I purchased some onions, green peppers and tangerines. My purchase of the bag full of produce came to $5. I love Hardy’s Produce, they always take care of me.

So I proceeded to walk up Rosa Parks with bag of produce in tow, and forgot to put my sunglasses on. Someone honked the horn. “Beeeeeppppp Beeeeeeppp, Do you need a ride? I’m one of your Face Book Friends, I know that hair anywhere”. I didn’t think anyone would recognize me walking up Rosa Parks. But my sunglasses were off, now I am exposed and transparent. Anyway, “No Sista, I am on my morning stroll, I just left the Farmers’ Market and I am on my way to Kroger’s.” She said, “Is it far?” I said, No, I’m close by” she waved and went on. I wondered who she was, I flipped my mine to my Face Book Friends, and I thought to myself, I bet that is Andrea, and it was. Anyway I continued my walk to Kroger on Monroe.

Looking at the world before me, with my sunglasses ON; I saw broken glass, homeless people, and sad eyes. With my sunglasses OFF, I see a beautiful people with lost hope, no determination and no will. I also see those who just don’t give a damn. Those who don’t have a clue, and to be honest why should they? No one is sensitive to the needs of others until they have to walk in those same shoes. It is up to each individual to create their own sustainability, so why not have enough compassion and help someone else along the way? You don’t have to, but it would be a nice thing to do.

Now I am walking with both pair of those shoes with my sunglasses off. I’m sequencing my eyes so I don’t go blind by the rays of the sun. I enter Kroger’s. I introduced myself to the store manager, who’s name is Joe, who happen to be standing at the front door as I entered. I said, “Hi Joe, My name is Trazana (as I extended my hand to shake his), I just came from the Farmers’ Market and purchased produce, but they put it in a Kroger bag so I am going to check my bag in a the customer service counter”. He looked mighty puzzled and said, “thank you”. I checked my bag in at the customer service desk. I finished my shopping with the $10 I had left. I continued my walk back to Jefferson St. to head home. I waited for the bus with my sunglasses off. I am smiling knowing that this morning although a bit irritated, everything I set out to do today (wo)manifested. I know that the day is not lost and I find it an honor to help others to see the world with their sunglasses off. Everyone I encountered today helped me with my mission today, and if I had kept my sunglasses on, I may not have been able to see the blessings. As long as I have breath and good health, I can do anything! Who knows what tomorrow will bring. My water bill is due next, my rent is past due. Having my sunglasses on I wasn’t transparent. People could not recognize me. My eyes are the portal to my soul, and I there I stay hidden. Keep it real and let others know you are a “UNIVERSAL Woman”, a “GODIS” who is an a hue-(wo)man body. I write this because even the strongest of us go through things, be it financial, spiritual, relationships ect. We have problems, in order to overcome them, we have to be transparent, take off our sunglasses and see the world for what it is. We need each other; we need to make each other accountable. We need to our system work for us together.

My grandfather who will soon be an 105 years old once told me, “you will never be able to get over the system, you must learn how to maneuver through it, in order to live and be happy” . I see that now. I know so many others are dealing with same problems, but with my sunglasses off, I can see clearly and know I can overcome that too. You must discover who you are and what you are. Don’t let life beat you down to the point that you can not see your future. I am an advocate for healthy living, green jobs, ecoprenuership, and community and know these are our keys to get us out of this mess in the matrix. Owning your own business takes time, due diligence ,perseverance, determination, and patience. I am not going to lie, this is hard work. You must do what you need to do to survive for yourself and your family without maliciously harming others along the way.

In a few weeks I will be going back into an office setting. This has been the most fulfilling, exciting, challenging, and evolutionary year of my life. I would not have been able to do anything without support from so many beloved friends and family, especially my mother and children. Another Avenue Cultural Resource Center will still stand and continue, and the decision to go back to a 9-5 is only temporary. I need to recharge and renew energy, which is money ,until I begin law school in August. Everyone must come to their own reality, find your own truth, but do so with your sunglasses off.

Thankh you for reading, and I hope having my sunglasses off helps someone too.

Peace, Love, and Light!

Trazana

PORCELAIN PROJECT 2011

2011-12-08T17:37:00.000-08:00

The  Porcelain Project 2011 is a social enterprise initiative of Another Avenue  Cultural Resource Center, that was made possible by Fox Farms.

Click Here To Learn More About The Porcelain Project 2011

           http://porcelainproject2011.blogspot.com/

Thank You

2011-11-22T09:38:00.000-08:00

We would like to Thank All who supported and attended the

'Total Health, Healing, and Well Being Seminar'.


Trazana Staples & Attendee

Return To Balance Display Table

Rare Jewel Designs Display Table

Azizah Nubia

Azizah Nubia & Isis Swink

Huni Bak Atun

Isis Swink

Huni Bak Atun

Dr. Jeff Menzise (J Menaq)

Dr. Jeff Menzise

EAT...ARE YOU READY FOR THE CHALLENGE?

2011-10-17T19:36:00.000-07:00

Eat to Live...Are you ready for the challenge?

The bond between mother and daughter is a great experience... especially when mother and daughter overcome, dis-ease, hardship, and obesity together.
Trazana & Azizah are that duo..Both suffering from diabetes, high-blood pressure, depression, and many more illnesses that stem from obesity. With a collective of over 200lbs lost.. these women know the secret to ultimate weight-loss..

2004

Trazana's Story:

2006

"For ears I suffered from and was diagnosed with hypertension, pre diabetes, and obesity. A one time I weighed in at 320 lbs at my height of 5'4" 1/4" tall. I was absolutely miserable! Everything about me was hurting, my mind, my spirit and my body. I could not walk two feet without being out of breath. I felt as though my entire life was crumbling around me.
Before the age of 40 I had several major surgeries, which included, removing my tonsils, adenoids, gallbladder, uterus, and a blood transfusion. My health continued to deteriorate, besides developing upper respiratory problems, I stayed sick all the time. Missing work and other activities all because I did not feel week. My medications were costing me over $300 per month and that was with insurance."

2007

Azizah story:

2010

"At the age of 22 I was was diagnosed with diabetes after giving birth to my 2nd child.. along with already dealing with high-blood pressure I knew if I kept up with my current life style I would not live to see 40. At 236 lbs I was depressed and unhappy with myself.. I knew I needed to make a change for the sake of my health and my children health."

What was the Changed?

2010

In 2004, Trazana decided she wanted to live Azizah 17 at the time followed in her foot steps. We loved food, and wanted to find ways of preparing food that was good for us but still tasteful. Trazana began seeking and searching for ways to lose weight." I read books, joined several weight loss programs, local and national. By 2006, I was on what appeared to be a see-saw. I had tried everything! Considering I had not eaten beef or pork since 1995. I thought there was no hope, and my doctors told me I would be on medication for the rest of my life. My weight and health was up and down. I refused to go through weight loss surgery after it was recommended by my physician. I started asking more questions and seeking more answers".

2011

In 2008 after the birth of her child and the news of being a diabetic Azizah began her quest for natural ways to heal... One day, my mom called me from Tennessee, ( I living in Cincinnati at the time) she had just seen the movie Food Inc. and shared with me how it changed her whole outlook on the food we eat.

2011

Thus the journey began... Trazana & Azizah transformed their lives by educating themselves on natural food, herbs, and a holistic way of living.
Making food her priority Trazana is now a author, premculturist and Founder / Executive Director of Another Avenue Cultural Resource Center who's mission is to educate the community on the importance of healthy foods , ecopreneurship and sustainable living.. as well as providing a natural foods market for the North Nashville Community.
Azizah is now a author, natural herbalist, healer, and talk show host of Return to Balance is making it her mission to teach other how they can transform themselves by searching deep within to unlock the emotional roadblocks that cause dis-ease.
Together these woman are prime examples that healthy living requires a complete lifestyle change of mind body and spirit.

2011
Trazana in her garden

Azizah
Performing emotional clearing 2011

Sharing with the world their story of success Trazana & Azizah are starting their very own life transformation program to assist others on their journey of self renewal. The Eat to Live Program will be available November 11, 2011 to the world and as a special incentive Trazana & Azizah will open a contest for two lucky individuals to try the program completely free. The lucky winners will not only receive the free program, but they will be coached personally by Trazana & Azizah for the duration of the program.
To enter into the contest go to www.returntobalance.webs.com

To learn more about Trazana and Azizah Journey check out www.returntobalance.webs.com

ABOUT OUR FOUNDER

2011-10-16T18:16:00.000-07:00

Peace, Love and Light! My name is Trazana Staples, I am the Founder/Executive Director of Another Avenue Cultural Resource Center. I want to fulfill my passion to help and support the community in making available natural, healthy sustainable foods in what we know as ‘Food Deserts’ in poverty stricken neighborhoods.

For years I suffered from and was diagnosed with hypertension, pre-diabetes, and obesity. At one time I weighed in at 320 lbs at my height of 5'4 1/4" tall. I was absolutely miserable! Everything about me was hurting, my mind, my spirit, and my body. I could not walk two feet without being out of breath. I felt as though my entire life was crumbling around me. Before the age of 40 I had several major surgeries, which included, removing my tonsils, adenoids, gallbladder, uterus, and a blood transfusion. My health continued to deteriorate, besides developing upper respiratory problems, I stayed sick all the time. Missing work and other activities all because I did not feel well. My medications were costing me over $300 per month and that was with insurance.

In 2004, I decided I wanted to live. I loved food, and wanted to find ways of preparing food that was good for me but still tasteful. I also began seeking and searching for ways to lose weight. I read books, joined several weight loss programs, local and national. By 2006, I was on what appeared to be a see-saw. I had tried everything! Considering I had not eaten beef or pork since 1995. I thought there was no hope, and my doctors told me I would be on medication for the rest of my life. My weight and health was up and down. I refused to go through weight loss surgery after it was recommended by my physician. I started asking more questions and seeking more answers.

Then one by one, although years a part, The Creator began sending people into my life to help me while on my journey. People who would either support me, encourage me, and/or give me helpful advice and tips. For them I am so grateful. I will always hold dear to my heart, Shronder Gentry, Iris Wray, Sizwe Herring, Willam Scruggs, Cherokee Lewis, Djehuty Ma'at Ra, and Dr. Jeff Menszie (J. Menaq). With their help and support, I discovered wellness activities, new ways of eating; preparing my food, and gardening. I learned about full body detoxing, meditation, yoga and metaphysics. I was given a new look on life and discovered that healthy living was not a 'get well quick' pill, but a lifestyle change.

Today, although I am still on my weight loss journey, I have lost over 130lbs. I am no longer on medication of any kind, I can breath, walk, run, swim, and garden. There is nothing I can not do. I am enjoying my life!

Being healthy required a well rounded state of mind. Not only did I have to get my body right, I had to get my mental frame of mind, and my spirit right. I had to change the way I thought about food. I had to learn who I was, and learn to love myself. I had to spend time and become one with nature. I had to learn how to forgive by releasing hurts, pains, and disappointments that occurred throughout my life. I had to learn to build healthy relationships and participate in community. A healthy lifestyle, Mind, Body, and Spirit is a daily application. I chose to live and enjoy the life given to me.

It is my desire to share with my community and the world the resources I found on my journey. My journey to healthy living unlocked many doors: sustainability, Green jobs, saving the earth, permaculture, and making new friends.

My ultimate goal is to have an natural foods market in the community in which I live, which is a 'food desert', until then, Another Avenue Cultural Resource Center is dedicated to educate support and outreach for those seeking healither ways of eating and living. We have a backyard sanctuary and a 15 bed community garden, however we need your support to continue on our mission to help support others in taking control of their lives to be happy and healthy.

All 3 of our presenters for the 'Total Health, Healing, and Well Being Seminar'; Djehuty Ma'at-Ra, and Dr. Jeff Menzise (J.Menaq) , have helped me through my journey. Separately from 2007 to present, they all have been a part of my healing journey ,and now they are coming together in Nashville to share with you too! Please register and Let YOUR Healing Begin! on Saturday, November 12, 2011 9am-4pm
http://anotheravenueculturalresourcecenter.blogspot.com/p/eventsworkshopsseminars.html

Please Join our Blog and Thank you for reading!

Trazana has a Bachelor's degree in Management and Human Relations from Trevecca Nazarene University and an Associate’s Degree from Xavier University in Criminal Justice. She has over fifteen years of progressive administration and management experience working as a community organizer and with various community organizations. Trazana is also active with the Green Jobs Task Force of Davidson County, Tennessee Alliance for Progress, and EarthMatters TN. She has volunteered with Health Care For America Now and Organizing for America Now. She is affiliated with several community organizations such as; The Urban EpiCenter, Re/Storing Nashville Program, and Community Food Advocates. In addition, she an author, song writer, mother and grandmother.

BEFORE

NOW

Another Avenue Cultural Resource Center

Nashville Women's Empowerment Series Presents

What's Growing in Your Garden?

GMO Awareness

#1 – Saccharin

#2 – PCBs

#3 – Polystyrene

#4 – Atom bomb and nuclear weapons

#5 – DDT

#6 – Dioxin

8 – Petroleum-Based Fertilizer

#9 – RoundUp

#10 – Aspartame (NutraSweet / Equal)

#11 – Bovine Growth Hormone (rBGH)

#12 – Genetically Modified Crops / GMOs

A Baker’s Dozen: #13 – Terminator Seeds

It is summertime planting season once again!

Free Empowerment Conference Call

Nashville Women's Empowerment Workshop

Nashville Women's Empowerment Workshop Pursuing Your Passion With PURPOSE and POWER Saturday, March 16, 2013 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM The Goodwill Lifsey Training Center 937 Herman Street, Nashville, TN 37208

Empowered Women Trazana Staples

How Can We Become the Change We Seek in the World?

Green Jobs for Women Empowerment Meet up

Events, News & More!

Green Jobs for Women Empowerment Pot Luck Brunch

FYI: We are upgrading

Women In Green Jobs, Empowerment Brunch

Love Fest Youth Service Community Day 2012! Thank you!

A heartfelt Thank You!!!!

To everyone who came out and participated in

Love Fest 2012!

We had a blast!

Check out the our wonderful pictures!

LOVE FEST 2012

'From Self LOVE to Matrimony'- Relationship & Intimacy Seminar

Nashville Women's Empowerment Workshop Series

Health advocate plants seeds of change in North Nashville neighborhood Personal transformation inspires Trazana Staples to share knowledge with others

Healthy changes

Inspiring others

Soul food survivor: The transformation of Trazana Staples

Fruits Over French Fries © Let’s E.A.T.T.™

Looking At The World With My Sunglasses’ Off

PORCELAIN PROJECT 2011

Thank You

Dr. Jeff Menzise (J Menaq)

Dr. Jeff Menzise (J Menaq)

EAT...ARE YOU READY FOR THE CHALLENGE?

Eat to Live...Are you ready for the challenge?

ABOUT OUR FOUNDER

Nashville Women's Empowerment

Workshop

Pursuing Your Passion

With

PURPOSE and POWER

Saturday, March 16, 2013

8:00 AM to 2:00 PM

The Goodwill Lifsey Training Center

937 Herman Street, Nashville, TN 37208