Latina Style's Commitment to Support the Development of Latina Entrepreneurs: The Anna Maria Arias Memorial Business Fund and the Tuck School of Busin

LATINA Style's Commitment to Support the Development of Latina Entrepreneurs: The Anna Maria Arias Memorial Business Fund & the Tuck School of Business

WASHINGTON, Aug. 12 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ -- LATINA Style Magazine, the premier magazine addressing the needs of Latina professionals in the United States, is pleased to announce an innovative collaboration with Dartmouth College's Tuck School of Business. LATINA Style will provide ten executive business education grants for Latina entrepreneurs, to be given to this year's winners of the Annual Anna Maria Arias Memorial Business Fund, and to be presented in our Nation's Capital on September, 5, 2008.

These grants will help to assure that ten of the Nation's highest-potential Latina entrepreneurs will be able to attend Tuck School's flagship executive program, Building a High-Performing Minority Business. The program helps business owners take their company to the next level, creating more wealth and more jobs in their communities.

When you are looking to jump start your business and take it to the next level of success, the Anna Maria Arias Memorial Business Fund could be available to help you achieve your goals

Since its establishment in 2002, the Anna Maria Arias Memorial Business Fund has been the most respected and coveted business award program for Latina business owners in the United States. The Fund was created to recognize the accomplishments of Anna Maria Arias, the late founder and editor of LATINA Style Magazine. Her drive and mission to empower Hispanic women is one of the true legacies in the Hispanic community. The Fund celebrates this spirit of entrepreneurship that was Anna Maria's vision and that today serves to fuel the phenomenal growth of the Latina business sector.

Created in the spirit of Anna Maria Arias' vision for Latinas in the business sector, this fund was designed to celebrate the perseverance and commitment that marked Anna Maria's life. She was a pioneer as a publisher, businesswoman and champion of entrepreneurship. The fund provides these educational grants to selected Latina business owners from across the country who exemplify those business practices and principles that Anna Maria championed.

"When you are looking to jump start your business and take it to the next level of success, the Anna Maria Arias Memorial Business Fund could be available to help you achieve your goals," stated Robert Bard, President and CEO of LATINA Style Inc. "When we started these awards we knew that the goal was to make long-term, transformational impact on our women business owners ... now through this collaboration with the Tuck School of Business, the Fund will provide a world class learning experience to create innovative, strategic business leaders!"

Since 1980, the Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth has been the leader in helping minority business executives succeed in perfecting and growing their businesses. Among the school's more than 4,500 minority graduates are some of the nation's most celebrated success stories. The Tuck School, rated the number one business school by both The Wall Street Journal and Forbes, provides world-class faculty and high-quality, high-impact intensive learning experiences that are specifically tailored to the needs of minority-owned businesses. The grant awardees will gain the business tools that today's Latina needs to compete effectively in the increasingly challenging global marketplace, and position her company for increased profits and for breakthrough growth.

"Tuck is committed to the growth and development of the Latina business community," said Professor Leonard Greenhalgh, Tuck's Director of Programs for Minority- and Women-Owned Businesses. "We commend LATINA Style Magazine and the Anna Maria Arias Memorial Business Fund Awards Program for their vision and their very significant commitment to the development of Latina business owners through a unique and innovative collaboration with the Tuck School. These educational scholarships will accelerate the progress of the award winners."

The deadline for these awards is August 15, 2008. The grant recipients will be showcased during a gala awards dinner at this year's LATINA Style Annual Symposium taking place in Washington, DC on September 5th, 2008, at the Washington Hilton Hotel in our nation's capital. For more information or to apply for the Anna Maria Arias Memorial Business Fund visit www. latinastyle.com or call 1-800-651-8083. For more information on Tuck School's executive programs for minority business owners, visit www.tuck.dartmouth.edu/exec/minority.

LATINA Style Magazine, a lifestyle magazine for the professional Hispanic woman.

Besides being an entrepreneur, for the past year in a half, I've been consulting with the Institute for Women Entrepreneurs a few hours a week. When consulting, I share my story with clients about my vision, goals and determination. Many clients listen attentively, their eyes glisten with hope and inspiration however, so many give up because they do not see results immediately.

So many folks want things now, everything takes time and effort. Branding, marketing and maintaining a professional image does not happen over night. My focus has been on my vision and end results are now all happening. The key is patience, dedication and lots of positive energy. Always remaining true to your mission and integrity will lead to a path that one sets.

"Stay tuned as Addy's drives away in the Addy mobile with sparkle and bling. "

National Business Fund Awardee - Anna Maria Arias Memorial Business Fund

"Created in the spirit of Anna Maria Arias’ vision for Latinas in the business sector, this fund was designed to celebrate the perseverance and commitment that marked Anna Maria’s life. She was a pioneer as a publisher, businesswoman and champion of entrepreneurship. The fund provides these educational grants to selected Latina business owners from across the country who exemplify those business practices and principles that Anna Maria championed. "

This summer was the busiest summer for my business consequently, I missed the business fund due date. I received an email encouraging me to reapply, since I was a strong candidate last year. Luckily the deadline was extended for another week for everyone, so I updated my profile and quickly gathered 3 letters of recommendations in order to complete the process.




I followed up with my contact on the selection date. I patiently waited, waited....waited and felt a little down because, I did not receive a call. Needless to say I felt a little depressed but turned the situation around and I emailed my contact and "Thanked her for encouraging me to reapply". I decided to take my children to the park so they could run free and I could enjoy natures beauty while getting some exercise.





When we came back, I checked my email and I read Congratulations from Latina Style Magazine!.... Oh, my GOD!..... I was on Cloud 9....floating, floating, floating. What an honor...because this is a national award!... YIPEEEEEEEEE!...






Happily, I shared the good news. My little girl replied, "Mama you always get awards". I told my little girl her mom has spent many, many, many years working devoting time by working with business owners and doing things in the community. I also told both my children "When you do things you enjoy and help others along the way, it's fun and blessings come to you because you do things from your heart". I also mentioned that being active in the community a person can make a positive change that will help some one or some thing . I tickled and chased after them and we laughed!...:-)



We also had to thank my hubby for all the love and support through this journey!...






LATINA Style Magazine, the premier magazine addressing the needs of Latina professionals in the United States. Ten (10) executive business education grants were given to for Latina entrepreneurs.





Since its establishment in 2002, the Anna Maria Arias Memorial Business Fund has been the most respected and coveted business award program for Latina business owners in the United States. The Fund was created to recognize the accomplishments of Anna Maria Arias, the late founder and editor of LATINA Style Magazine. Her drive and mission to empower Hispanic women is one of the true legacies in the Hispanic community. The Fund celebrates this spirit of entrepreneurship that was Anna Maria’s vision and that today serves to fuel the phenomenal growth of the Latina business sector.


“When you are looking to jump start your business and take it to the next level of success, the Anna Maria Arias Memorial Business Fund could be available to help you achieve your goals,” stated Robert Bard, President and CEO of LATINA Style Inc. “We started these awards more than 6 years ago…we are now entering our seventh year, and the Fund has helped dozens of Latinas grow their companies. The awards have made a difference in the lives of dozens of Latina entrepreneurs, ensuring that business dreams become a reality…one woman at a time!”



Back in 2005 , I had the pleasure of meeting Robert Bard during the Latina Style Business Series in Ontario, CA. I shook his hand firmly and I mentioned that I planned on being a recipient of the Anna Maria Arias Business Fund within 3 years.






Through these years, I never missed the business series and loved listening to the speakers such as Maria Marin, Daniel Gutierrez, Maria Contreras-Sweet...etc. plus learning a great deal during the workshops.




This year I attended the business series that was held in Anaheim, CA. I wore my swarovski bookmarks on a necklace chain I custom made that holds various of my products. This always attracts women to me and they always ask "what are those beautiful shinning items". This of course then results to sales and leads. As an entrepreneur, I always creatively promoted my business by thinking out of the box. People always remember me because I'm branding Heaven Sent Jewelry.





My marketing method attracted a high level department store. The representative asked me what they were and she told me she would introduce me to another high level person. Now, I'm thinking BIG!... I learning about the processes needed in dealing with a large retail company. In the future, I plan on becoming a supplier!... "Thanks Latina Style Magazine for creating opportunities I have never experienced before!"





















Here I am, dedicating my award to fellow entrepreneurs. "We all need to take chances, risks and go for things in life. I do not wait for things to happen, I make things happen. In the process, I open doors and help others help themselves in all aspects of life! "


The first year I submitted my paper work in consideration for the the Anna Maria Arias Business Fund I over did it. I wanted it to be perfect but I got carried away spending one week on it.



The 2nd year my profile improved. I was encouraged to apply for the SBA Champion, after having some coaching from Sylvia Gutierrez from the Santa Ana SBA; I could see a drastic change in my profile submitted.



This year, I just kept in short, to the point. I ended up getting emotional during my award presentation. The first 3 years were the hardest challenges in my life. I never worked so hard nor did I imagine everything that would result in year 4!.... I will be writing about the many BLESSINGS with in the next few weeks.





Faith, support from my family and determination were essential. Developing strategic alliances with organizations and partnerships was critical. Attending seminars, workshops and asking for help were a must. Not being afraid of learning technology proved in being effective for my business. Last but not least, surrounding myself with positive people with energy to move forward. Dreaming and going for it.... not allowing negative influences hinder my path!....











I had the pleasure of meeting these awesome women. They were all recipients as well!...



Shawna Baca - 4 Elements Productions
Martha Cecilia de la Torre - El Clasificado
Nina Duarte-Rodriguez - Debit International
Virginia Madueno-IMAGEN Public Relations, LLC
Terry Beltran Miller-Vista Latinos
Vanessa Robledo-The Vineyard Worker’s Daughter

Sandra McGlothlin-Empire Roofing Ltd.
Gina Stern- d_parture spa
Francisca A. Worley - Century 21 AdVenture


Three of my fellow awardes worked out in the fields when we were young. "We never lost our DREAMS" .




We also participated in the 5th annual National LATINA Symposium to celebrate Latina achievement in the United States held in Washington, D.C. The purpose was to address the needs of professional Latinas in the U.S,

The Symposium provides a national platform for Latina entrepreneurs and professional working women to address the most pressing issues affecting the Hispanic woman in the United States.

It was so exhilarated in meeting Latina leaders from corporate America, the government and military. The Symposium will featured panels and workshops designed to unite and empower Latinas and included some of the most prominent Latinas in corporate America.

United States Treasurer Ana Cabral, (my client) was the moderator and her distinguished panelists included: Brig. Gen. Angela Salinas of the U.S. Marine Corps, Lourdes Hassler, president of NSHMBA, and Diana Real of State Farm. A second panel titled “Achieving your Potential” and was moderated by Carmen Bauza of Wal-Mart.

The Symposium had the Distinguished Service Awards Luncheon, which LATINA Style co-hosts with the Department of Defense. At the luncheon 14 award recipients, representing each branch of the Armed Forces, will be honored for their excellence in service. The keynote speaker will be Col. Lisa Firmin of the U.S. Air Force. This is the only national awards program specifically for Latinas in the military.



This opportunity is so exciting. We will receive business training at Dartmouth University's Tuck School of Business in 2009! Special Thanks to Latina Style and all the Sponsors, Shell Oil, Wal-Mart, AARP/United Healthcare, Exxon Mobil, HITN, Teleflora and Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth.

Stay tuned as Addy's drives away in the Addy mobile with sparkle and bling. "

The Law of Attraction

Dare to Dream!

Before learning about the Law of Attraction from the Oprah Winfrey show, I practised all the principles through out my life. Consequently, the many blessings followed which made me feel like I was on cloud nine the months of April-July! What a beautiful rush to experience after many, many years of taking an active role in the business community.

Wow.... I was truly touched in meeting and receiving my award by Jovita Carranza. Jovita was appointed by President George W. Bush as a high level position for the U.S. SBA (Small Business Administration).

As I went to receive my award, Jovita told me that she was touched by my story and she was inspired by me!.... Imagine that!... During the presentation, I took my children. Jovita was taken by their presence and commented on how important it is for our children in taking part of meaningful events during her presentation to the private reception prior to the awards ceremony . For they will be the future leaders of our great country!...

Jovita was also taken by my beautiful designs that I created during a two day celebration. Here I am with the heart warming IWE (Institute of Women Entrepreneurs).

Dreams can be accomplished with the support and vision of a loving family. All the blessings, made me realize how much I love my husband and children!







Stay tuned as Addy's drives away in the Addy mobile with sparkle and bling.

Assembly District Honoree

Wow... what an honor!....

I have been selected as Small Business Honoree for

Assembly District # 68 by Assembly Member Van Tran for the 2007 California Small Business Day http://www.csba.com/home/ in Sacramento on May 2 nd!.. The California Assembly passed a resolution in 2000 to honor small business. This is an all day event with over 200 people meet with the legislative leadership and business honorees. Over 70 legislators are expected!..

All of this is so surreal...the past few weeks I've been so overwhelmed with all the blessings. As I went through my entrepreneurship journey, all my time that was dedicated with leadership, donations, networking, volunteering, forming partnerships, assisting other entrepreneurs set a platform for my family and my business. Now I can see that all the hard work is being recognized by many.

The entrepreneurship road is not an easy one. As entrepreneurs, sometimes all we have is a vision of what will be. We learn to fight for we believe in, struggle day in and day out. Keeping the spirits up while we sacrifice time from our loved ones and devotion to our dreams.

That's when creativity, attitude and burning desire keep it alive !....
This award is for all my fellow entrepreneurs.... keep the dreams alive!

Join us if your in Austin, Texas from the 20th to 21 for the 2nd World Wide Comadrazo. We will be having a special legislative breakfast and exhibiting on Saturday. For more information check out http://www.lascomadres.org/ .

I will be a speaker at the MAOF 31st Annual National Hispanic Women's Conference on April 27 at the Pasadena Convention Center. Lic. Margarita Zavala, First Lady of Mexico will be the key note speaker. For more information check out http://www.maof.org/.

Stay tuned as Addy's drives away in the Addy mobile with sparkle and bling.

International Surprise

Wow.... Another wonderful event!....

In September I received notice from Mirian informing me that I was selected an awardee from AIMSA Ahora Awards www.aimsausa.com . This was the 11th anniversary for Asociacion Internacional De Mujeres Salvadoran (International Association of Salvadoran Women). This award is give to women with great leadership and major contributions to our community that make a difference in the lives of young women. Kaily Coronado, Mabel Katz and Juantia Vigil were also recognized.

I was so happy that my little girl could finally attend an event with me. She was so excited to dress up in her little evening gown and wear her swarovski bracelet and sparkle with mommy. My business is a family business and I wanted to share this special occasion with my little girl. My girlfriend Diana Hernandez, also joined the celebration. She mentioned that my little girl almost started crying because she was touched that mommy was being recognized. I try to share my experience so she can excel and enjoy school. Unfortunately my little guy was just getting over being sick so he couldn't attend with my husband.

Besides having a wonderful time with many nice folks. Mirian , the organizer and founder of AIMS, she also started a toy drive for Salvadoran Children. We donated two teddy bears that had two little Austrian Swarvovski bracelets for two lucky little girls. All the little girls that have received these little treaures love their bracelets.

Stay tuned as Addy's drives away in the add mobile with sparkle and bling.

OC Business Journal Women in Business Nominee

The purpose of posting my awards on this blog is to inspire other women. As a stay home mom of a 4 & 5 year olds & business woman, I have managed in receiving recognition & various awards by the business community. I'm not lucky or gifted, I have vision & work extremely hard with the support of my loving family.

This year I was a nominee for the Orange County in Excellence 2006 Women in business. This event is sponored by the O. C. Business Journal. What an encouragement!... Every little step I take on a daily basis, assist me in achieving my goal towards my business venture.

We can not afford to think of why we can't achieve things, instead we must focus on what can be. Confidence, determination and attitude are key!.. That has always been my philosophy. On an average, I spend between 3 or 5 hours on a daily basis with my business. Parenting is another full time job that requires patience & lot's of love. What works for me? Forming partnerships with fellow entrepreneur, sharing resources of information, cross promotions, reading, taking courses and tackling business issues together. Learning technology has been one of my biggest efforts that has allowed my business to grow.

As an entrepreneur, you can't afford not to promote your business. 90 percent of time is spent raising my children, 10 percent is spent on my business, networking, attending meetings, seminars. I decorate myself with my designs that add sparkle and bling when attending meetings. I wear a badge holder that displays my product . This of course brings women coming to me and asking me what is that? I also carry a cute adorable Swarovski Austrian Crystal card holder with my business cards (see picture above) & some of my famous swarovski book marks. My marketing leaves a positive impression & I make sales. I'm also looking at introducing some pins that are personalized with crystals as a marketing tool for entrepreneur's that are looking at making a lasting impression . More information to follow.

One can't be shy!.... I always make it a point to share what's coming up with my business to key folks. While I attended a conference, there was an opportunity to ask a question during a panel discussion with over 200 people. I took the opportunity not to ask a question, but to expand on what the the speaker had discussed. As a result, a representative from the O.C. Business Journal heard me and told me about their annual Women in Business Awards. If your shy, check out toastmaster. I joined toastmaster http://www.toastmasters.org/when I was in college. This group provides a great platform for enhancing your public speaking.

Remember, no body will know about your product or service if you do not show any passion towards your business. If you had a chance to check out American Inventor on ABC, each finalist had a burning desire of passion towards their invention http://abc.go.com/primetime/americaninventor/ I love what I do and show it!

I recall when I first started my business, I met with a business consultant. He told me that I would not be able to run a business just by carrying my product around but I did. One needs to think outside of the box and make things work, I did. Completing my first year of business was one of the biggest hurdles . It was so, so rough. I had a one year old and a two year old.... I worked so hard on setting a foundation with the business community and working so hard on my website. Both were so critical that set the foundation for everything else that followed. I give my brain a break and enjoyed watching the Apprentice http://www.nbc.com/The_Apprentice_5/ . One never stops learning.

Above the heart charm is a Finders Key Purse. There are many themes from fashion, sports, inspirational, pets,...etc. These cool little gadgets are affordable and make life easy for any woman. You just attach your key's, use the charm as a decorator for a purse, then you always know where your key's are located. You will not have to search deep down inside your purse. These cool items are located under accessories on my website, finders key purse.

Stay stunned as Addy drives away in the Addy mobile with Bling and Sparkle. I would like to hear from other folks on what has helped them with marketing their business.

Manchester Who's Who

Talk about so many cool things happening in a month!..

While this month has been so busy with many blessings, I was trying to explain to my 5 year old why mommy and daddy were going away dressed up. I told her, as she received her Star Student Recognition in school, I too was going to receive my Star Recognition for my jewelry business. Both my little ones were so proud to see mommy sparkle and bling with my Austrian Crystal Designs.

As a child, I had a nack for drawing ; I was known at the Artist. While in high school, I had my artwork published and worked for the college newspaper. Much fun came from drawing and I seriously thought of being a fashion designer since I loved to sew & design my clothes in Jr & high school. This artistic gift has come alive with my designs in my jewelry designs. At my NLBWA Awards, I blinged my cloths with Austrian Swarovski Crystal and my shoes. What fun I had...

I was so busy preparing for another function, I forgot about correspondence I had received a few weeks back from New York. It was from an organization, called the Manchester Who's Who... I thought....hhhmmmmmm..... what is this about.... and why am I receiving it. I emailed some of my friends about it... I checked out their website and said WOW..... Upon completing the sheet that was sent, I sent it back.

I had about a 20 minute interview about my vision, my affiliations and my future. I was invited to be part of the New York Manchester Who's Who. Wow.... I wondered whom had given my name .

The Manchester Who's Who Among Executives and Professional "Honors Edition" of the registry in the US. I'm pretty excited about this.... http://www.manchesterwhoeswho.com

Stay tuned for more as Addy rides away in the Addy mobile with Bling & Sparkle.