While the phrase of the title probably reminds us of whether to set the clocks forward or backward during the year, this time I am not referring to the clock on the wall. No matter what time the clock and the calendar show, it is a long time and past time for the human family to steer themselves away from their individual and collective paths of destruction. Such a general statement is certain to be met with skepticism and cynicism, but then, that is the thinking of skeptics and cynics. Meanwhile, operating with the reality that in spite of all we have done to get rid of humankind, we are still here, so there is still reason for hope. I like Willie Johnson’s sub-title "Stop - Think - Analyze Yourself" in his article “Be Ye Amazing”, because it rightfully places the focus on self. Many issues would become more manageable if we could “fix” ourselves. Some will stop reading here because they know for a fact that everything is the other person’s fault or flaw. While my heart aches for solutions to the disparities in our system, I am encouraged by people working to fix the problems. As I write these words, two young brothers have been arrested in Philadelphia for doing what people do all the time; sitting in a Starbucks Coffee Shop. I can relate because I recently experienced my own drama, although fortunately it did escalate to Police involvement. It was initiated by a Bigot-Mouth Nitwit who was upset with NFL Players kneeling, and chose me, the only black male in the restaurant, to explain. Anyone who knows me or looks at me, can tell that I am not an NFL Player. As a 77 year-old man, accompanying his wife who was on a cane, coming from church and dressed accordingly, and simply going to breakfast while black; we could not have appeared less threatening. I am however guilty as charged of being now, henceforth, and forever; black!

“Where there is no vision, the people perish” - Proverbs 29:18 Your Success Newsletter - May-June, 2018 - Published Bi-Monthly

Henry & Dianne Ford Publishers

Meanwhile however, the persistent existence and repeated display of low-level thinking does not mean our prognosis is terminal. During a recent Easter Egg Drop, I watched and relished the positive interaction between Police Officers and young children less than a mile from where the restaurant incident took place, I was greatly encouraged by signs of hope at a time when the News is so filled with signs of despair.. We cannot allow the ignorant elements in our society to infect the minds and hearts of everyone we encounter and everything we touch. Each individual is responsible for his or her own decisions regarding thoughts and actions toward others. I cannot and will not attempt to “pay back” the disrespect someone sends my way, by passing it along to someone else who happens to be the same race or nationality of the nut case I had the misfortune to encounter. Despite what we may go through, we must each be personally responsible for our actions. Corrective action and “fixing” the world can only take place one person at a time, and it begins with exercising self-control, and using the single word slogan of the IBM Corporation; THINK! We cannot allow the fringe elements of our society to lower our standard for behavior, or allow the news media to become our guiding light. Individually and without anyone’s approval, we each have the ability and responsibility to rise and become a positive influence to others. May we each seek to be lights of the world, and not perpetrators of darkness, hopelessness, and evil.

IN THIS ISSUE

Pg. 1 - Spring Forward Pg. 2 - Summit County MLK Oratorical Contest Pg. 3 - Easter Egg Drop, Birthday Celebrations Pg. 4 - Willie Johnson: Be Ye Amazing Pg. 5 - Willie Johnson: It’s Never Too Late, and Be Amazing Pg. 6 - Happy Mother’s Day, Happy Father’s Day Pg. 7 - Always The Time To Do Right Pg. 7 - Tonie Patterson: Book Signing - Lifetime of Love Pg. 8 - DeLores Pressley: She Elevates, Inc. Pg. 8 - Goods & Services Pg. 9 - Connecting The Dots: Students & Senior Citizens

”News to uplift and empower” - Visit us on-line at www.visionsnewsletter.blogspot.com

Let Us Spring Forward and Not Fall Back

We must learn to live together as brothers or perish together as fools.

Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

- Page 2 -

Youth, Young Adult & Education Corner

MLK Summit County Regional Oratorical Contest

VISIONS “News to uplift and empower” - Visit us on-line at www.visionsnewsletter.blogspot.com

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DEADLINE FOR NEXT ISSUE - June 10, 2018

Whatever we believe about ourselves

and our ability comes true for us.

Susan L. Taylor, journalist

Because we share a lot of information on-line, this seems a good time to mention that . . . The Internet and Facebook are not responsible for moral decay. Consider what you read, believe, share, post, chat or tweet. Remember that “garbage” can also be found in your mailbox, on your telephone, at your favorite gathering place. Avoiding technology does not keep you safe; but education, discretion, and caution are a great help.

Thank you to Dr. Constance Peek-Longmire (far right) and Rosheadra Edwards (far left) for allowing me to serve as a judge for this great event. I spent a rewarding morning with an awesome group of young participants, excited and supportive family members, and other judges, staff and volunteers. The event was held at the beautiful Downtown Akron Public Library. Additional photos can be seen by pressing here if you are viewing this on the PDF document, or by typing in the address below into your browser: http://blackhistory247.blogspot.com/2018/03/mlk-oratorical-contest-summit-county.html

- Page 3 - VISIONS “News to uplift and empower” - Visit us on-line at www.visionsnewsletter.blogspot.com

Easter Sunday “Egg Hunters” in Northeast Ohio were challenged by cold temperatures and brisk winds. Despite the challenges, blessings flowed as the Sun replaced the previous days rain. There was just enough warmth for children, parents, volunteers and Safety Forces to stay the course. Even with the chill, the atmosphere was warm, thanks to the positive interactions between Oakwood Village Safety Forces and the young egg hunters, most of whom are members of Mt. Zion of Oakwood Village. It was truly inspiring to witness the inspiring dialogue taking place. Thank God for the good weather and the positive experiences.

Oakwood Village Easter Egg Drop Inspires and

Warms Hearts

Left: Helicopter drops plastic eggs (to be turned in for candy and/or cash). Below: Expressions of hope and awe is clear on the faces of the young as they observe and interact with Oakwood Village mayor and safety forces. What a blessing it would be for that bond to strengthen and continue.

Dianne Ford recently celebrated her Birthday with her Birthday Club members, and several friends who dropped by, or just happened to be at one of our long ago hangouts. We don’t get to The Colombo Room often, because we live a good 35 minute drive away. If you know proprietor Chester Tucker and have eaten at the Colombo Room, then you understand why it was worth the drive to have the party there. Top notch food and atmosphere helped to make the party a memorable occasion. As usual, the staff at the Colombo Room made certain that all was in order, that we would not want to leave, and would be anxious to return. A great time was had by all, especially Dianne and the Birthday Club members, a group of friends who have celebrated birthdays together for over 30 years. The party was a launch, to be followed by Dianne’s “Birthday Month” celebration. We were all glad to help her celebrate another birthday. Check this issue on-line for more photos and a short video clip.

Anyone who thinks Emmanuel Lawrence cannot be surprised apparently never met his wife and my younger (she makes me say that) sister, Jean Ford-Lawrence. I admit that when she announced this complex plan, I thought “Yeah, Right!” After all, Emmanuel’s mind has the capacity of an elephant, and most things he sees, or hears are permanently locked. It was truly a test of Jean’s legendary and seldom matched wisdom, but she, along with her amazing team of co-conspirators pulled it off. Friends and relatives from around the country witnessed Emmanuel’s shock and awe, and celebrated in grand style. Even though my sister has the undisputed title of smartest sibling, my age has enabled me to learn a thing or two. Since my birthday is the day before Emmanuel’s, I knew that Jean would have some type of surprise for me. Minutes after arriving at the party, I spotted my surprise on a table off to the side. Jean, Thank you for great planning and the invitation. Thank God for our safe travels. A great time was had by all, and additional photos are available by viewing this issue on-line.

Above: Please explain how you pulled this off? Below: My Surprise Cake

Above: Part of the food. Below: Flowers from Birthday Club members

Be Ye Amazing

"Stop - Think - Analyze Yourself"

By: Willie Johnson, The Ambassador of Potentiality

(479) 409-6340 - willie@williejayspeaks.com - www.williejayspeaks.com

- Page 4 -

VISIONS “News to uplift and empower” - Visit us on-line at www.visionsnewsletter.blogspot.com

An individual's true greatness lies in the consciousness of an honest purpose in life, founded on a true estimate of them-self, frequent self-examinations, and a steady obedience to the values which they know to be right.

Never forget - knowledge is power! That may be and sound trite, but brother, it's true!

The following "5" strategies will help you to "Live Up To Your Potential" and to "Be Amazing"! Get Understanding You can develop and expand your personality by keeping step with the world's affairs. In other words, keep informed, and take stock in yourself. We are living, as you know, in a terrific age of constant change. To me, this is an amazing age; however, to many whose minds are unprepared, it is a bewildering, frightening age. Prepare Yourself To Face Anything The tempo of life and development is increasing at a rapid rate. Things are unfolding at a pace almost too fast for the mind to grasp. More and more earth-shaking developments are on the way. Just think - many things that was considered impossible a few years ago have already been accomplished. Anything, yes anything, may happen from now on - and probably will. You must train yourself to be mentally alert, to maintain an open mind, to make contact with your creative person within, so that you can adapt yourself to the changes that are coming; so that you will have the insight, the understanding and the courage to meet those changes head on. Abandon All Limited Thinking Prepare your mind now by putting aside all narrow and limited thinking. Never say again that anything is impossible, no matter how impossible it may seem at the moment. Don't restrict and shackle your mind by small and prejudiced thinking. Free your consciousness of feelings or resentment, antagonism, hate and like emotional reactions toward others. Why? These kinds of thoughts and mindsets will keep you from thinking straight, and from getting the right perspective toward others and yourself. These type thoughts and mindset will also hold you back from progress; preventing your creative power from working within and through you.

Stop Kidding Yourself You will have to do your own analyzing. You know yourself better than any close friend or relative can ever know you. You may have been able to mask your real feelings and thoughts from others, but you can tell, deep down within, what you really think and feel about anything or anybody. If these thoughts and feelings are not good, you must get busy and make them good. Be A Forgiver Forgive others for what they've done to you. Assume you share the blame. Don't hold resentments or grudges. Don't let the un-forgiveness of yourself and others poison your mind and upset your body chemistry. I close as I opened: An individual's true greatness lies in the consciousness of an honest purpose in life, founded on a true estimate of them-self, frequent self-examinations, and a steady obedience to the values which they know to be right.

What are you going to do today - To Live Up To Your Potential and To Be Amazing?

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VISIONS “News to uplift and empower” - Visit us on-line at www.visionsnewsletter.blogspot.com

Willie Johnson’s Newest Book Shares Valuable Life Tips Willie Johnson - New Book “Be Amazing” Announcing the upcoming release of his second book: Be Amazing : 15+1 Insights on how to create a larger vision for your life. More information at: https://16insightstobeamazing.com/

In my first published book, "It's Never Too Late To Live Up To Your Potential", I shared 11 stand alone insights for living successful, meaningful, and purposeful lives. This was my action step of letting people know that it doesn't matter what stage of life they are going through - their value is unlimited, and that it's possible to positively impact their life, the life of others, and their communities.

The book is available on Amazon at: https://www.amazon.com/Its-Never-Too-Late-Potential/dp/1519624247.

If viewing this page in PDF Format, CLICK HERE TO ORDER, otherwise enter https://www.amazon.com/Its-Never-Too-Late-Potential/dp/1519624247 into your browser.

Recommended Additions to Your Personal and Professional Development Library

This Mother’s Day and Father’s Day, and in fact all year long, may we search for ways to be the surrogate mother, father, sister, brother, or friend that someone needs. If some of us are able and willing to do some of that; the Thank You that you wish could be heard, can manifest itself with the loud and resounding impact of the good times many of us miss so dearly. And whether you can hear them or not, be assured that there will be a chorus singing “You’re welcome!”

To Mothers and Fathers everywhere:

Happy Mother’s Day - Happy Father’s Day

Mama was my greatest teacher, a teacher of compassion, love and fearlessness. If love is sweet as a flower, then my mother is that sweet flower of love.

- Stevie Wonder -

I would say my greatest achievement in life right now - my greatest achievement period is - and I'm still trying to achieve it - is to be a wonderful father to my kids.

- Bo Jackson -

- Page 6 - VISIONS “News to uplift and empower” - Visit us on-line at www.visionsnewsletter.blogspot.com

Happy Mother’s Day; Happy Father’s Day; and Thank You Again, and Again, and Again!

Every year it seems more challenging to express just how thankful I am for the teachings and love of my mother and father. One would think that increased vocabulary, wisdom, and reflection would make it easier to express gratitude, not more difficult. I suppose the truth is that the difficulties we encounter, the challenges we mange to overcome, the losses we endure; all seem to reinforce the lessons we have learned; along with the lessons we have resisted learning. In the end, our gratitude simply outgrows our ability to completely express it. Saying “Thank you” to our parents does not seem sufficient for what they have sacrificed. For those of us who have experienced one or both parents going on to glory, we can no longer hear them say “You’re welcome.” Despite our inability to communicate between two worlds, our gratitude for mothers and fathers need not fall upon deaf ears, or echo aimlessly throughout the universe. If we truly have an attitude of gratitude, we can take the wisdom, love, and compassion that our parents blessed us with and pay it forward. If we truly miss the feeling of “family” we grew up with, we can seek to reach out to those who might never have experienced that feeling. There are Senior Centers, Nursing Homes, Hospitals, Soup Kitchens, Recreation Centers, Prisons, and private homes, where in the words of Rose Royce, “Love don’t live here anymore”; and in fact, love may never have lived there. So long as we have breath, there is someone who can use a kind word, a hug, and much more than we can give. While you may be missing someone who is gone, someone who is still here is missing you.

? Just a Thought

Did you have issues with your parents when you were growing up, but are happy that you turned out to be like them?

Henry & Henrietta Ford

- Page 7 - VISIONS “News to uplift and empower” - Visit us on-line at www.visionsnewsletter.blogspot.com

It is always the time to do what is right

Recently someone I know was seeking the services of a photographer for an event she was organizing, and posted an inquiry on her Facebook Timeline asking for recommendations. The opportunity was to photograph an event kickoff for an organization whose mission seeks to elevate, enlighten, and empower young girls to become future business owners and business leaders. In my mind, it seemed logical that having a female photographer at the event would subtly demonstrate the viability of female business ownership. Armed with that logic, I recommended a female photographer that I know, trust, and respect. Meanwhile, someone recommended me for the opportunity. I saw my name appear among what was becoming a rather lengthy list of recommendations, both male and female. I contacted the friend who recommended me. thanked her, and explained the thoughts I just shared in the previous paragraph. She acknowledged the soundness of my reasoning, but stated that she was standing by her recommendation. By this time I was feeling like a Rock Star, but continued my day knowing that I would not be selected to photograph the event. Sometimes what one “knows” gets in the way of learning. A few days (or maybe it was a couple of weeks) later, I was contacted by the event organizer, and offered the opportunity to photograph the event. In accepting, I explained my reasoning for not pursuing the opportunity, although I was aware I had been recommended. Like the lady who recommended me, the organizer also understood my thought process, but rejected the idea of excluding me based upon gender. She felt that the recommendation from a respected and trusted friend, along with her own faith, confidence, and knowledge of my ability and follow through was more important. So did the thoughts and actions of two successful and highly respected businesswomen change my thinking? Not at all, because I am an analytical individual who enjoyed a rewarding career, based primarily on the foundation of sound logic and rational reasoning. I cannot change who I am, but I can build upon that foundation and remain open to learning.

The result of my experience has reinforced to me, and hopefully to others, several key points as indicated below. 1. The willingness to promote others does not

diminish one’s own worth and possibilities. 2. That which is meant for you is yours. 3. Doing and being your best is key to overcoming

barriers both real and imagined. 4. Believing and working for equality is not the

same as denying consideration to others. I believe my reasoning served to raise my trust and credibility in the minds of the organizer, the one who recommended me, and the one whom I recommended. Trust and credibility cannot be purchased, begged, borrowed, or stolen. It is through our consistent thoughts and actions, large or small, that our trust and credibility grow. So in this scenario everyone was a winner. I received increased trust, credibility, and the opportunity to be of service; while everyone involved enjoyed a boost of faith and confidence. I leave you the thought and message that, it is always the time to do what is right.

***

Tonie Patterson Shares the Secrets in A Lifetime of Love, Parts 1 & 2

Tonie Patterson, also known as Ladii the Author, showed up and showed out at her recent book signing, at Half-Price Books in Mayfield Heights, Ohio. She had a great looking book, a catchy title, a captivating smile, and a very engaging personality. Books sold fast, but in spite of all the activity, Tonie graciously posed with whoever wanted a photo op. She proudly wore a T-Shirt to remind us that anything one says or does, can become a story. Learn more about Tonie and A Lifetime of Love: Parts 1 & 2, at http://ladiiauthor.wixsite.com/ladiiantoinettepa.

Congratulations DeLores Pressley, She Elevates, Inc., and Award Recipients

- Page 8 -

AVAILABLE FOR eBOOK READERS

By Henry Ford

Author, Consultant, Publisher

Henry Ford - Author, Consultant, Speaker, Publisher Challenging, Compassionate, Culturally Aware, Direct, Engaging, Humorous

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VISIONS “News to uplift and empower” - Visit us on-line at www.visionsnewsletter.blogspot.com

For BETTER INVESTING, Save The Date: Saturday, May 26th from 1-2:30 pm,

Kathleen Richards, Director of the Northeast Ohio Chapter of Better Investing is scheduled to speak at the Twinsburg Public Library. For more about Better Investing, visit https://www.facebook.com/betterinvesting/. Source: Twinsburg Public Library Schedule (March, April, May Events Calendar) View on-line at: https://moneyatsuccess.blogspot.com/2018/02/better-investing-at-twinsburg-public.html

Message from DeLores “Please help me congratulate these powerful women who were honored by She Elevates, Inc.. Corey Minor Smith received the Woman of Courage Award, Margaret Wong, - The She Elevates Award. Dr. Jeanne Coleman - Woman Leadership Award, and Norma Rist - First Woman Award. Dr. Simran Kahai received the Gift of Time Award from the Executive Director of She Elevates.”

As she always does, award winning speaker Delores Pressley (left), founder of She Elevates, Inc., was sharing the vision, the credits, and the love at a recent program at John Carroll University. A packed house looked and listened intently as DeLores and others revealed the need and purpose for She Elevates, Inc. The organization envisions itself being the vehicle to educate and inspire the current and future generations of young female business owners.

In addition to the information and inspiration, guests participated in a silent auction; enjoyed great food, great music, and each other. Dianne and I are grateful to have been included. Knowing DeLores as we do, and having the opportunity to met her assistant, Vicki Hogan; we are certain of the long term success of She Elevates, Inc.

On Sunday, April 29th, Dianne and I had the opportunity to stop by the Open House sponsored by the Twinsburg Historical Society. Although we only had a few minutes to spare, I was intent on touching base with some of my favorite people; young people who are making a positive difference in the lives of others.

National Honor Society members from Twinsburg High School had set aside a part of their busy weekend to help seniors bridge the technology gap. In doing so, they also bridged some other gaps that are just as important, or even more so. We are well aware of some of the many challenges facing our world, our nation, our communities; and in many cases, our personal lives. Our ability to make possible changes on any level, begins with our confidence and competence in our own abilities. These awesome students helped to sow seeds of confidence; confidence that undoubtedly raised the expectations of most everyone with whom they interacted. Their seemingly simple acts of kindness became the concrete that helped to form a firm foundation; a foundation from which can spring forth thoughts and actions to confront all challenges. On that Sunday afternoon, if a senior citizen (or even a not so senior one), simply learned ways to avoid Internet Scams; or learned how to use Text Messaging; or learned some other thing to make their life simpler, safer, or more rewarding; the time spent would have been well worth it. The truth is however that the value is not just in the learning, but also in the teaching.

- Page 9 - VISIONS “News to uplift and empower” - Visit us on-line at www.visionsnewsletter.blogspot.com

From the perspective of the “Learner”, in addition to knowledge gained, learning reminds one that they still can learn. That reminder is the fertilizer that nurtures additional growth. A great man once said (I think his name is Andy Tomko), “After all, it is never too late to learn something new!” The feeling of accomplishment also establishes forward momentum for even more learning and greater accomplishment. From the perspective of the “Teacher”, few things are more rewarding than a smile, a nod of appreciation, a thank you, from someone who “got it,” because the “teacher” took the time and demonstrated the compassion to help guide them through something that was blocking their progress. Learner and Teacher in the two preceding paragraphs are in quotes, because in constructive communications, they often, if not always overlap. The students who showed up to answer questions, did much more than a simple Q & A session. They actually changed lives for the better, including their own. Though their educational achievements cannot and should not be minimized; one does not need to be a National Honor Society member to make a difference. These NHS students are simply a visible representation of a much more powerful force. That force is one of mostly untapped resources of our young people. These young people are often underestimated, ignored, unsupported, negatively publicized, and sometimes unjustly criticized; all by a society that fails to recognize and celebrate the good that they do. Hopefully, sharing my thoughts in this article will encourage our young people to become the best they can be, and set greater expectations for others. Their futures, along with our survival and quality of life, require that they become their best. Congratulations and Best Wishes to the Twinsburg High students, their Faculty Advisor, Mr. Merriman; and to Andy Tomko, and the Trustees and staff of the Twinsburg Historical Society. For additional information about the Twinsburg Historical Society, CLICK HERE if viewing the PDF File. Otherwise enter https://www.twinsburghistoricalsociety.org/ into your web browser.

Twinsburg High NHS members and student advisor take a well deserved break with two trustees of the Twinsburg Historical Society.

Connecting The Dots; Twinsburg Students and Senior Citizens: Sharing Wisdom and Possibilities, Building Bridges of Hope!