Eunece V. Franklin, CEO& Principal, MBA/MPA | "Eye on the Prize"

If the shoe fits...

2014-01-11T08:18:00.001-06:00

“The Eye of Deception”

Your tongue is cunning, so very captivating.

Your pen is eloquent, filled with crafty mendacity's.

Your life is intertwined in duplicitiousness as you follow the imprudent, interferer's, those who lack credence, and seek favors. Under demanding circumstances and pretense, you feverishly chase the currency; the pressure mounts, your health fells, but you equivocate. Quite unscrupulous, a spirit so wicked and masked in deception, that a bitter taste of sweetness and love lie beneath your true being; anxiously you await to escape. You look, but do not see...

I SEE YOU, I PITY YOU, I FORGIVE YOU…

Written and narrated by Eunece V. Franklin-2014

“The Eye of Deception” (Vol. 1)

"True Love"

2014-01-10T00:19:00.001-06:00

"True Love"

A poem dedicated to my parents...

"True love" is enduring and everlasting; it is unconditional, unwavering, and flinches not. It is an understanding and a selfless trait that only coexists among "True lovers." Sometimes a sacrifice shared by a soul mate, but always a genuine appreciation shared by both. Yes, live your life with passion and vigor, and make sure you choose the best lover to share your life because...

"True love" excepts the positive flow of energy handed down by the "Karma Gods" like meeting a new love in another country, different background and culture, unexpected to be sure, but "nothing incredible is impossible" because...

"True love” is poetry in motion. It is "when you work to live, not live to work." It is when you meet someone and feel as though you have known them forever. You finish each other's sentence, and it feels natural with no inhibitions, no stress and worry, patience, and love for one another. The relationship is not forced or pretentious, like trying to put a circle in a square- "it is not quite the right fit." There is not a loss of words, and both lovers can always be themselves where each appreciates and respects the other. It is a club where wisdom and graciousness need only apply-as each member is envied by non members.

"True love" allows emotions to fuel enthusiasm, and inner restlessness to disappear as that mystical, magical, 'special one' craves for your attention, and he or she is anxious to share the good news with family, friends, and colleagues. Careful though, ONLY share-- with those who care! And make love until your hearts beat as one as you travel down the glorious road of bliss and peacefulness. My friend’s, harness the thought like a "May Day" in springtime or envision

"True love" as a cold glass of lemonade on a hot and humid summer day in the sexy cities of New Orleans, New York, or Paris...thirsty anyone???

"True love" is the end of the story where the couple live happily ever after; proudly and responsibly with dignity and honor protecting the realm. Hence, a treasured gift passed down from God, where no man or woman has to settle for less, when he or she is ensured the best. However, there is one exception...you have to believe! You must have faith to experience all of the above. In fact, this is the intersection where passion and "True love" encounters what most will never experience, and some will only read about like a "Fifty Shades of Grey novel."

And that is what "true love" means to me as I patiently await my turn. One can only dream the dream that my parents experienced for 58 years...

Written and Narrated By Eunece V. Franklin (10/28/2013)

Happy New Year!!!

2014-01-06T20:58:00.001-06:00

The wonderful thing about a new year... "New possibilities." After all, nothing incredible is impossible!

Happy New Year...

This is MY year...2014!

"Time to achieve all my goals that I have worked towards the last four years."

"A Class Act"

2013-11-22T14:23:00.001-06:00

One of the reasons that I have always loved fashion is because I watched my mom dress and apply her makeup many, many times when I was a little girl; the result, "I inherited some of her fashionista style." Mom was a conservative dresser, but loved bold, bright, vibrant colors, which matched her "bigger than life persona." She wore exquisite hats, classy and eloquent scarves, Jackie 'O' gloves and glasses, and of course heels and pantyhose.

I learned so much from this classy, sassy, vivacious woman (My Mom).

R.I.P. "Fatty"...

Love your middle daughter...

"Change is good"

2013-11-03T19:53:00.000-06:00

As I close one door and open another, set to move within three weeks, it has not always been easy, but it’s never been boring. In fact, there is something unique and life-affirming about moving into a new home. After all, a new home provides a new sanctuary where I have the opportunity to pair down my belongings, design the new space, and start a new beginning. I am excited, yet nervous! Nevertheless, I envision hope and optimism as I take a giant leap of faith after spending 18 years of my life at Trevi Square Condominiums! I have lived and loved at Trevi Square. Further, it was the first purchase in my adult life-finally a homeowner, something that my father said was a “right-of-passage” for every responsible American.

Well, I am definitely an American, but not always the most responsible American. After all, it was at Trevi Square where I made numerous “growing” blunders as a young adult. Needless to say, I can assure you that I have lived rather than existed over the past 18 years at Trevi. In fact, walk with me down memory lane. In November of 1995, I remember vividly wanting a 2 bed, 2 bath traditional loft with high ceilings, brick walls, wood burning fireplace, outdoor deck, and a cozy upstairs duplex bedroom; my dream came true! All my friends loved my new bachelorette pad and thought that the space was unique as we planned our first gathering (and many, many more to come). I must admit, the large arched windows provided additional charm overlooking the courtyard to the north, and Michigan Avenue to the south. Notwithstanding, I would have garage parking that was the perfect place to safe-keep my new BMW convertible. It looked as though I had finally arrived, and according to Webster’s dictionary, I was the new BUPPY (“A young, upwardly mobile black professional”) with a loving family, good paying job traveling the country, and a new man to boot! However, I would be remiss in not mentioning my favorite house warming gift at Trevi Square; Mayday, my partner and crime room-mate. A 12 week old Cocker Spaniel, who only passed November 19, 2011. Mayday was the true love of my life, and a gift from GOD; Funny, I guess that is why Dog spelled backwards is GOD!

Mayday and I will meet up again, but not now as I begin a new journey and continue to embrace CHANGE. This is God’s plan, and I must carry on…

Does an Ivy Education Get You Better Job Prospects? - Vault: Blog

2013-08-22T09:42:00.001-05:00

Does an Ivy Education Get You Better Job Prospects? - Vault: Blog

Why settle, when you can have it all...

2013-04-28T16:06:00.002-05:00

"There are some that settle for what they need, but I choose to "NOT" settle! I choose to receive what I need, and get what I want!"

E.V.F

2013

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

2013-03-17T13:14:00.000-05:00

Happy St. Patrick's Day! Today, mark's one of the most celebrated holiday's in Chicago. In fact, Governor Quinn, continues the tradition of "dying the Chicago River" GREEN. Therefore, go out and have a green beer, kiss your neighbor, and celebrate St. Patty's day because TODAY...everyone is Irish!

Beyonce "unveiled"

2013-02-17T15:44:00.002-06:00

I watched Beyonce Knowles on HBO last night, and I think her documentary was brilliant public relations! This young lady has grown, and it shows by the intimate conversation that she reveals to her audience. Beautiful, talented, and a smart, shrewd business woman to boot! Beyonce is in a good place in her life with a new baby, supportive family, and a super star husband that she adores. More important, it is refreshing to see a positive documentary that is assured to inspire young ladies. Well done, Ms. Knowles. I am a new fan!

Obama coming to Chicago to 'talk about the gun violence'

2013-02-10T21:25:00.001-06:00

Thank you Mr. President!
Obama coming to Chicago to 'talk about the gun violence'

Do Not Stop Dreaming...

2013-02-08T04:54:00.000-06:00

In three, weeks, February 26, 2013 to be exact, I will complete my public administration capstone for graduate school. After two, years and a total of four years if you count the attainment of my MBA in June 2011, I am finally ready with full armor on to pursue my dream career. However, not to get ahead of myself because I am currently too busy writing papers, preparing oral presentations, and reading to enjoy the thrill of finally completing my higher-educational journey; I must keep my eye on the prize. So, I digress, but I cannot help but think back to the time when my initial thirst for knowledge to attain a graduate degree was overwhelming, and sometimes I would feel apprehensive. Well, look at me now! I am about to achieve my second masters degree in four years, and yes, the achievement is a monumental one, but I will always remember the hard work, dedication, and sacrifices that I had to endure in the process. I will cherish this experience for a life time, and tell anyone that will listen "dreams do come true--as long as you believe." In fact, never in my wildest dreams did I imagine that the journey to transition out of one career into another career would lead me down a path of sheer fulfillment.
I write this story for all the people in a similar predicament to say, "Do not give up because winning is a matter of endurance. As long as you do not quit, you will win." Moreover, do not forget to reward your accomplishments. I look forward to rewarding my educational deeds with a trip to "Back to Europe." Yes, I fell in love with Europe after the study abroad trip a couple of months ago so to satisfy my craving, I am looking into a 21-day destination trip to London, Paris, Rome, Venice, and Barcelona, Spain. Wow! Okay, I need school to be over immediately. -:)

Out with the old, In with the new---

2013-01-05T20:04:00.001-06:00

"Out with the old, In with the new---New Years Resolutions" - Success and happiness, which begin with finding your purpose. In doing so, supporting a cause and brainstorming to determine ones passion is reason enough to live. As such, when life seem to frustrate you, get out of your comfort zone by getting out of your way to make a monumental life-change. Furthermore, planning and preparation are paramount tools for any leader to LEAD! In fact, when leading, consider the following to get started: "Intellectual satisfaction, Security, and Fair Compensation. For further analysis, check out what Forbes has to say.

Forbes 10 Resolutions

Gov. Chris Chistie blasts Congress for inaction on Hurricane Sandy aid

2013-01-02T22:46:00.001-06:00

Gov. Chris Chistie blasts Congress for inaction on Hurricane Sandy aid

http://youtube.com/govchristie

THIS IS DISGRACEFUL! WHEN IS THE EAST COAST GOING TO RECEIVE RELIEF FUNDING? IT'S SAD TO SAY, BUT CONGRESS IS DOWN TO FRIENDS AND FAMILIES AS FAR AS SUPPORT IN THE COUNTRY... :(

Health, Prosperity, and Generosity...

2012-12-31T14:45:00.001-06:00

The year is coming to an imminent close, and I would be remiss if I did not blog about the one blessing that I have prayed for all year long. As such, first and foremost, I thank God for watching over me, my family and friends, and for always providing me the answers, when I ask. Second, I thank God for allowing my mother's cancer to be in remission! After several years of this horrific disease ravaging my mom's body, I am proud to say that mom's cancer is in remission. My mom is the strongest woman in the world, and I love her dearly, but her faith, family, graciousness, and medical team are to be commended during the challenging times that we endured. I am so happy she and my dad can celebrate the New Year's Day with family and friends, and I know that but for the grace of God, my "Fatty" is back...XoXoXo

Always remember: "The bad, can make us all better. Good, better, best, never let it rest until your good is better, and your better is the best!!!" Happy New Year...

Senseless Killings in Chicago, Illinois---

2012-12-29T11:43:00.000-06:00

Two days remain in 2012, and according to Chicago Police Superintendent Garry McCarthy, the statistics of homicides have increased since 2008 with a record total of 500. Gang violence, illegal guns, absent parents, a poor educational system, and a lack of community support continues to plague Chicago's West and South side neighborhoods. The senseless killings are enough to make the city of "Big Shoulder's" and other American cities rise and take notice. As such, homicides in Chicago are up 17 percent over the last year, and shootings are up 11 percent...the numbers are staggering and unacceptable! In fact, for the record, Chicago, Illinois has strict gun laws compared to the rest of the country, and yet the proliferation of gun violence in the city continues to increase every year because criminals have easy access to guns. In my humble opinion, you need to isolate the problem areas, instill a 24 hour curfew, identify the known criminals, then call in the National Guard! Doing so will send a clear message..."WE ARE TAKING OUR STREETS BACK, AND OUR CHILDREN!" Community activists, parents, clergymen, politicians, and anyone concerned with the high level of violence in the great city of Chicago should pause for concern. In fact, whether the killings are in Newtown, Connecticut, or Chicago, Illinois, it all leads back to guns and the irresponsible individuals that have access to these weapons of mass destruction. Lastly, bullets do not have eyes, and how long before the tragic killings spread to your neighborhood. I'm just saying...

Merry Christmas...

2012-12-25T11:57:00.000-06:00

Merry Christmas everyone because today is a day to spend time with family to reflect upon our blessings (past, present, and future). In fact, my mother, father, siblings, and family and friends are enjoying the holidays in glorious spirits. Further, I cannot wait until dinner time because this is my favorite time of the year...Enjoy!!! Check out one of the Franklin families favorite Christmas songs... http://youtu.be/o3YxvNQgq3M

January 10, 2013...Watch "SCANDAL"

2012-12-22T09:33:00.001-06:00

Okay, if Shonda Rhimes; Writer, producer, director, and creator of "Grey's Anatomy" is working on a project...I'm watching! Slow curtain up, and in comes actors Kerry Washington (Olivia, Crisis Manager) and Tony Goldwyn (Fitz, Mr. President) with on-screen authenticity, passion, chemistry, and hotness, and you have a hit TV show..."SCANDAL."

Season 3 premiere of "SCANDAL" on ABC begins Thursday, January 10, 2013...Watch fluidity and complexity in motion. It is smart TV... Check out this hot scene from season 1 Olivia & Fitz...SCANDAL

I'm a huge fan of "Olivia, Fitz & Mellie" and the entire cast

I cannot wait to see them in action on ABC in January 2013!

The Urgency of "NOW"...

2012-12-19T13:54:00.001-06:00

An inspiring act of leadership is taking place in the country following the Newtown, Connecticut tragedies. As such, the days of seeking an excuse for “inaction” is no longer acceptable as concerned citizens, lawmakers, mayors, business people, parents, and President Obama’s administration brainstorm to prevent further gun massacres. Hooray! The urgency of ‘NOW’ is vital to the sustainability of this great nation, and I for one cannot wait to participate in the call to action. As such, if you are interested in volunteering useful ideas, time, energy, and the hard work ahead of such monumental tasks, I suggest contacting your local congressman or senator. After all, there is strength in numbers and most organizations will welcome the support. Find your representative:

The "Tipping Point"

2012-12-17T07:35:00.000-06:00

http://my.democrats.org/Newtown

President Obama delivered yet another somber moving "eulogy" after a massacre took 20 babies and six adult lives in Newtown, Connecticut; quite moving! In doing so, the president vowed to take action to remember the lives lost, and in my humble opinion, this will define the president's legacy. To be sure, this is a monumental task that the president cannot tackle alone, but if not now, when? Again, there are so many social issues to be discussed, but if the recent tragedies cannot galvanize a society to do the right thing, than we are no better than terrorists slaughtering innocent human beings in third world countries. "We can, and must do better." I'm just saying...

This is not a right/left issue, but as the great educator 'Horace Mann' said, "Until you have done something for humanity, you should be ashamed to die."

How people die by firearms in the United States:

2012-12-16T01:00:00.001-06:00

Total =32,163

*Murder Suicides- 18,000

Homicide Suicides-11,000

Unintentional/Police Interventions-3,163

An overwhelming majority of people die from guns in the United States, and I thought it was important to share with you the truth, rather than the misinformation that flood the media. The numbers above are statistics from 2011 (cdc.gov), and clearly we live in a culture of violence, in the Unites States. That said, the high profile mass shootings that we see on the nightly news are (murder suicides). As such, it is time to take action because we are at war and the enemies are guns, mental illness, and a society of selfish, greedy, irresponsible people afraid to speak the truth, and do the right thing. People so caught up with self interest and ambition that safety and prosperity for all is an after thought. More important, if people have the power to move mountains, when are we going to witness the movement? Wake up America! How many more times do we have to sit and watch the media showcase a list of murdered citizens? In fact, whether the deaths are on the streets of Chicago, a shopping mall in Oregon, or an elementary school in Connecticut, the result is still the same…death; Enough is enough! Are we not tired of grieving for senseless deaths in the country? “If you see something, say something, if you say something, do something.”

I’m just saying…

A Timeline Of Mass Shootings In The US Since Columbine

2012-12-15T07:28:00.001-06:00

A Timeline Of Mass Shootings In The US Since Columbine: On Friday morning, 27 people were reportedly shot and killed at Sandy Hook elementary school in Newtown, CT. According to sources, 18 of these casualties were children. This is the second mass shooting in the US this week, after a gunman opened fire in an Oregon shopping mall on Tuesday, killing 2. ABC News reports [...]/p

*Missing from the article: All the Chicago shootings, Brookfield, Wisconsin shooting, Tinley Park, Illinois shooting, and I am sure if we dig a little further, we will be able to list more. That said, it is time to act America! I am sick and tired of having to watch the ~~news~~ (or should I say, the views), sensationalize for ratings the tragic stories of massacre shootings in the country. Conversely, three days after my "mental illness" post, another senseless massacre takes place. If we are to have an honest discussion on the topic of mass shootings, it cannot only be about GUNS...we have to discuss "MENTAL ILLNESS" too!!! More to the point, "enough discussion, it is time for sane individuals to ban together and ACT!!!"

My prayer's go out to the families of the tragic stories above. America, what say you on the repeatedly guns & mental illness tragedies, and what action will we take as the result of the above massacres? I'm just saying...

Does loyalty matter?

2012-12-14T07:03:00.000-06:00

Susan E. Rice, United States Ambassador..."Got sucker punched!"

The one thing that I can say about President George W. Bush's leadership style, "President Bush would have fought for Condoleezza Rice, had she have been in the Susan Rice's predicament." Case in point, after 911 there were rumblings that Condoleezza Rice, then National Security Advisor, dropped the ball. As such, the rumblings subsided because President Bush is loyal to his people, and he made sure that Ms. Rice's qualifications, integrity, and commitment to the country did not suffer from a smear campaign in the media, or from the opposition party. Therefore, in my opinion, I think it is shameful to see Susan Rice used as the scape goat for the Benghazi tragedy, and further shameful to see President Obama, his administration, and the democrats lack of defense for Susan Rice; leaving the UN Ambassador out to dry in 120 degree weather without cover! In doing so, Ms. Rice withdraws her hat from the Secretary of State position, leaves with her tail between her legs, and the G.O.P./cynics win the battle. Conversely, it is quite clear that the current administration has no loyalty for its people, which makes one think, "will you have loyalty for the people who voted you into office Mr. President?" Who is next to be thrown under the bus? I'm just saying, loyalty does matter...

Is it time to discuss "Mental Illness" in the U.S.?

2012-12-12T03:13:00.003-06:00

Okay America, we can debate about gun control until the cows come home, but when will we have an honest discussion about "mental illness" in the country? In fact, have not we had enough "mental illness" killings in the country? For the record, it is true, there are too many guns on the street (possessed by known criminals), but how many more people have to be killed because a mentally ill person requires adequate care? Unfortunately, it is a double edged sword...mentally ill and carrying a weapon. Question: "How can we have presidential elections where spending billions of dollars on silly ads vying for our vote, but America, a wealthy country cannot invest in helping to get treatment for ill individuals, thus preventing them from going out to shoot innocent people Christmas shopping in a mall?" It is embarrassing and shameful to watch the nightly news and hear them speak about gun control whenever there is a mass shooting in the country, but fail to speak on the real issue. Case in point, what about the fact "almost 20+ years ago the ACLU and President Reagan single handily changed the trajectory of mental illness in the country through misguided law suits, and cutting funding for mental health facilities. Why not simply reform mental illness services? Why did we have to shut down the facilities that clearly many mentally ill patients require?" In my humble opinion, the country needs to review the existing laws and make revisions, and it is time for America to wake up, speak out, and demand that your elected officials put forth "mental illness" legislation (with funding) to help those in need, and keep the rest of us free from harm. Last, a word to the media, "stop covering up the real issue in some of these mass shootings. Gun control is a political issue, to be sure, but helping to treat mentally ill people is a moral issue. Guns do not shoot themselves people are behind the shootings; unfortunately, some of these people are ill!" I'm just saying...

Study Abroad 2012..."A Fabulous Experience!"

2012-12-07T07:42:00.000-06:00

Eunece V. Franklin' presents...

My final (video), which chronicles the fabulous, November 2012' "Study Abroad Trip."

Enjoy...and SMILE!

Eunece & Fellow Graduate Classmates/Faculty~

London & Paris Nov 2012.

A Musical Legend Dies...

2012-12-06T05:09:00.000-06:00

Throughout life, one often remembers the legacy of a musician by the universal language he or she leaves the world. As such, we will remember composer/pianist, Dave Brubeck for his jazz musical talent and social activism. Mr. Brubeck, well known for selling a million copies of the famous "Take Five" single, and for being the first Caucasian to sit in and play with an all black band, dies a day before his 92 birthday. In doing so, since music is a universal language, Mr. Brubeck, and his jazz quartet band has broken numerous musical and social barriers. RIP, sweet prince...perhaps you, Louis, and Coltrane can rock the heavenly house tonight; and that would be one time I would love to be a fly on the wall. -:)

Take a listen to one of jazz music's greatest legends: http://youtu.be/faJE92phKzI