Forum: Current Class Progress ]]> http://www.pep-talks.org/post?id=6344783 Wed, 15 May 2013 20:49:47 GMT http://www.pep-talks.org/post/Class-19-Family-Conference-Call-Recording-6326396
Please click here to download the Class 19 audio file.

Forum: Announcements ]]> http://www.pep-talks.org/post?id=6326396 Fri, 03 May 2013 16:07:30 GMT http://www.pep-talks.org/post/Class-19-Week-14-6303285 Week 14

Monday, April 1, 2013— We came into computer lab today; it was cool as always to navigate through our lessons and also to receive feedback on our plans from our advisors. Some of us even received extra time in the lab. Then we maneuvered to Toastmasters, learning more about speaking and how to properly deliver a topic with crisp transitions and moving with purpose. Noland P. (a.k.a. Powder Puff Girl) spoke on love, boundaries, and extending those boundaries so we can grow. Good job, Noland!

Tuesday, April 2, 2013— We camein and went right to our chapter test. Then our meeting with Bertwas gaveled in. We covered chapter 12, which covered everything from the importance of a solid financial foundation to analyzing the importance of having a measurement focus—great stuff!

Wednesday, April 3, 2013— I think these are some of the most important days: the days we get to peek into the life of our PEP brothers as they are on their way to being released. Today we prayed out Charles H. (a.k.a. Chatter Box), Cesar C. (a.k.a. Tinker Bell), Clarence C. (a.k.a. Little Richie) and one of our own Noble 19 brothers, Daniel M. (a.k.a. Sweet Abu). They all had an opportunity to dance, encourage each other and get lifted up by their brothers. Keep them in your prayers and remember to show them love. It’s just a matter of time until we also are on our way to a successful life.

Thursday, April 4, 2013— We had a day, off but we have to keep moving. We were challenged to  think about what we can do to make a positive difference, because the truth is, people never stop moving – the same is true of us, especially when we want to achieve something. It’s still okay to take one day at a time so we can refocus our attention where it needs to be, to press forward in life and be successful. This is our goal.

Friday, April 5, 2013— Talk about the early bird getting the worm! We were called out at 8 am, the earliest yet. We missed the news! We started our day off with a couple of NOOMA videos by Rob Bell. Then we tried to finish the movie “Stroke of Genius” but were interrupted (in a good way) by a group of executives: David R., Jason M., Steve A., David S., and Kevin H. who came to teach us integrity selling. I used to hate selling until I learned about integrity selling … man, was it exciting!

This week was great! Guys, we have eight weeks left if my math is right. I’ve learned plenty as I do every week. If someone would have told me some of the things I would learn here at PEP I would not have believed them. What I mean is, the more I watch and interact with my brothers the more I learn about how other people perceive situations. We will continue helping and talking with our brothers; we never know how much it can help.

Forum: Journals ]]> http://www.pep-talks.org/post?id=6303285 Wed, 17 Apr 2013 17:27:39 GMT http://www.pep-talks.org/post/Class-19-Week-13-6285341 Week 13

Monday, March 25, 2013— As we came into the computer lab, some of us received our market research request replies back, which was great. Also, we worked through our lessons so we could have more time for research. Then we went into our business meeting with Bert and received our test over chapter nine. Sammy N. (a.k.a. Sweet Nutty Professor) received the most improved academically award. Nonetheless, after our test we went right into chapter 11 discussing basic marketing plans all the way through to identifying the methods for sales management. Great stuff!

Tuesday, March 26, 2013— Another beautiful day!Today started out with my fellow Toastmaster Mario D. (a.k.a. Strawberry Patch), who spoke about “cyber threats.” It’s time to stay on top of our computer passwords because it just got real. Hackers are everywhere. We need to protect our systems at all times. Next, we had Bobby J. (a.k.a. Biscuit) and he spoke about overcoming obstacles. Lawny Marts, through many trials and tribulations, achieved his goals by becoming an NFL star for the Kansas City Chiefs. Let’s overcome our obstacles together, brothers.  We can do this!

Wednesday, March 27, 2013— This day came as a surprise. When you hear the words, “Put everything underneath your seats,” you begin to recap everything we have been studying. So it was time to start pulling those papers out of the back of your folders and start looking over them. We received our first Harvard case study today. “A Day in the Life of Alex Sanders: Driving in the Fast Lane at Landon Care Products.” I think the best part was when we heard that Mike H. is coming on Friday to go over the case study with us. It’s always fun to have Mike come and spend time with us. Then to end the day, we watched some art history, but don’t worry guys – we are almost done with all of the videos.

Thursday, March 28, 2013— We all were informed that we are on our last leg of our business plan, working on our place, price, promotions and products. We also were rewarded with some culture: the history of a few artists. Those artists are Monet, Cezanne, Renoir and a few others of the impressionist artists. Then we received our first case study and called it a day.

Friday, March 29, 2013— While waiting for Mr. Mike H. (a.k.a. Poodle Doo) to arrive, we watched part of a film called Stroke of Genius. Once Mike came into the classroom, we had one crazy time analyzing the Harvard Case Study. There are many perspectives to one situation. This goes for the case study and any other situation that arise as well.

This week seemed to be dragging. I feel as if I have hit a “glass ceiling” as things have seemed to have gotten stagnate. I will continue to keep trudging through though, and as for anyone else feeling that way—let’s press on!

Forum: Journals ]]> http://www.pep-talks.org/post?id=6285341 Fri, 05 Apr 2013 15:54:57 GMT http://www.pep-talks.org/post/Class-19-Week-12-6285338 Week 12

Monday, March 18, 2013— It is Monday again. How many times have we had this chance? Why not start it off by going to the computer lab and Toastmasters? This week of course is different. The market research we all have been waiting for is finally in. We also get to see who our business advisor is. If you ask me, this week is where it gets real. It is time to take our business plans to the next level and to step up our public speaking skills. The Toastmasters class is helping us do just that.

Tuesday, March 19, 2013— It is unbelievable that we are on chapter nine in the entrepreneurship textbook. Boy, time flies! Of course, we had PEP’s CEO himself, Bert S. (a.k.a. Chocolate Truffles) come in and teach us about business. I never get tired of that. This is a chance and opportunity that others hope for and wish they had. We cannot forget about the “Nooma”videos we all love. In Open, Rob Bell talked about how we should be looking for a role to play in the ongoing creation of the world. May we let God’s will be done in our lives.

Wednesday, March 20, 2013— WOW! We watched The Heart of Texas, a documentary about one of the most tragic things that could ever occur in a person’s life. For those of you who do not know, the documentary was about a Texas family and the loss of their four-year-old little girl. The little girl was hit by her father’s good friend, and the story follows all that transpired as a result. We will not disclose any more about the documentary, but we hope you see it. We all felt for Grover N. and several of us cried, in prison. We were hit hard and as the film came to a close, the door opened and in walked Grover N. himself. Grover gave us so much valuable advice, simply because of what God has set in his heart. Grover, we love you and will never forget you and your heartfelt story. Thank you and God bless you!

Thursday, March 21, 2013— We experienced another lovely day for Noble 19. We are getting closer to graduation with each passing day. We have received so many beautiful gifts from PEP and the network of volunteers. Noble 19 is forever in debt for what you have done for and have shown to us.

We had a little PEP TV time and watched Pat M. (a.k.a. Patty Cakes) act tough and hog our brother Darrell A. (a.k.a. Lisa Leslie) for his chips. Then we caught a glimpse of a six foot sandwich at Houston’s Caleb house—eating good fellas! After that, we caught some good ole WWII blunders of the Luftwaffe and the Japanese naval forces. Those boys did not understand who they were messing with!

Friday, March 22, 2013— Etiquette? What is that? Oh, now we remember! It’s the stuff ours mothers taught us, but was lost and changed up along the way. We are starting to remember now; Mrs. Colleen R. has jogged our memories. Al M. (a.k.a. Granny Panties) gave us an analogy of the good looking fruit with the worm that has damaged the core. We should all be aware of how we get damaged on a daily basis. Monte P. spoke about all the public relations PEP has in the media. Two folks from the North Carolina jail, with 2,500 inmates, are looking into starting a PEP sister program and carrying it over to the North Carolina prison system. Yippee, the revolution continues on!

What a week it has been! This was the most emotional, heartfelt week so far in PEP, and it definitely shaped and molded our minds to a new perspective on forgiveness. We are starting to see that PEP is much bigger than the classroom. It is a movement for societal change first here, then in our communities, and finally the state of Texas and beyond. Thank you PEP!!!

Forum: Journals ]]> http://www.pep-talks.org/post?id=6285338 Fri, 05 Apr 2013 15:54:23 GMT http://www.pep-talks.org/post/Class-19-Week-11-6285333 Week 11

Monday, March 11, 2013— Finishing up on Word and Excel lessons kept us pretty busy on this Monday morning, since we should be getting our market research back any day now. With computer lab and Toastmasters, I think Mondays are my favorite day. It is the beginning of the week and a fresh start and opportunity to strive for excellence. What can you do to change? There is always someone that needs your help, and by helping them you help yourself.

Tuesday, March 12, 2013— We were called out early once again for the chapter seven test on the many business entities one can form. Then we had a few awards handed out and a few dance sessions too. Mr. Domingo O. (a.k.a. Raiderette) received one for the most academically improved. David Pedder lll (a.k.a. Sweet Pigmy Goat) celebrated his birthday with a victory dance too. More homework came for some guys as well. Man! Is anyone up for a little art history? Rob Bell and his Nooma video spoke of Mithras the Roman god. The story claimed Mithras died and rose from the dead. Do you see any similarities?

Wednesday, March 13, 2013— Today was another humdinger! Mr. Rocky A. (a.k.a. Radar) gave an amazing speech to lift our spirits and maintain our hope. Then we prayed out another brother, Roger L. (a.k.a. Crazy Frog), and he heard from several brothers, all with good advice. They were Charles H. (a.k.a. Candy Kangaroo), Tony Z. (a.k.a. Cry Baby), Phillip C. (a.k.a. Destiny’s Child), Timothy S. (a.k.a. Madea) and Charles H. (a.k.a. Chatter Box). We went over chapters nine and ten in Living in the Village, which allowed us to work on our financial literacy by covering the advantages of establishing an emergency fund as well as covering the many forms of IRAs. The rest of the day was filled with dance lessons and playing games. Pat M. (a.k.a. Precious Pat) is a big old kid at heart, but he tries to act tough to hide it—you are not fooling anyone!  

Thursday, March 14, 2013— Today we had a visitor: Max from the PEP office came and shared some information about PEP’s transitional housing process, which got the day off to an exciting start. Then we were blessed with some art history. After that we watched a Nooma video with Rob Bell, entitled Covering Change and Being Present in the Here and Now, Mentally, Spiritually and Intellectually. We also watched one entitled What is in a NameWe got a quick peek at PEP TV (awesome encouragement!) followed by some journal time, which is the time we should all really put our hearts into! Next, we watched a World War II blunders film – cool stuff. We also experienced a “push-up” from Chris B. (a.k.a. Kermit the Frog), Jason C. (a.k.a. Sweet Tea Pot), Morgan C. (a.k.a. Sweet Big Mac), Raymond W. (a.k.a. Baby Pat), Metron C. (a.k.a. Smiley Cyrus), Jason T. (a.k.a. Drama Queen), Gregory A. (a.k.a. Fantasia), Anthony A. (a.k.a. Little Tutu) and many more.

Friday, March 15, 2013— Our brothers Kevin K. (a.k.a. Sweet Gremlin) and Roger R. (a.k.a. Rainbow Bright) received their Birthday song and presents today. Then we enjoyed learning more World War II facts. We were super blessed with a visit from Colleen R., the Queen of Etiquette. She took us through the fundamentals of how to act in public, different clothing styles and white collar dining tips.

It was a pretty full week, and I enjoyed it. We covered everything from basic computer skills to dining with white collar etiquette. The etiquette day was full of very useful information, and we appreciated it.To hear from PEP networks out in the free world brought some assurance that we are many. The number of things those guys do to help is unbelievable, and we are truly thankful.

Forum: Journals ]]> http://www.pep-talks.org/post?id=6285333 Fri, 05 Apr 2013 15:53:12 GMT http://www.pep-talks.org/post/Class-19-GPA-as-of-03.26.2013-6275195 NameGPATest Avg.Adams, A.3.5490.75Alaniz, J.3.2284.50Amuneke, O.3.4989.70Anderson, J.3.9699.28Arnold , R.3.0981.84Arradondo, G.3.9098.06Arredondo, R.3.7494.82Barrientez, C.3.5490.77Bell, R.3.7595.04Bernal, A.3.5791.37Bernon, A.3.5190.28Beverely, R.2.1563.06Blanco, R.3.6292.32Byrd, P.3.6192.30Campbell, R.3.4388.50Cantu, A.3.3887.65Cantu, P.3.4288.38Cartwright, K.3.3987.79Caswell, T.3.1983.90Chambers, R.3.3286.30Chappell, T.3.5089.90Charlot, D.3.7695.24Clarkson, J.2.2564.93Cook, J.3.7294.43Craft, M.3.6292.41Craig, T.3.7194.17Crocker, M.3.4889.68Dang, T.3.6693.22Davidson, R.3.7394.61Dickson, K.3.2284.42Dominguez, M.3.6693.15Embers, A.2.9178.19Espinoza, E.3.2785.31Faglie, L.3.3486.77Franco , F.3.1683.14Gamage, T.2.6072.04Gant, J.3.4989.74Gibbons, R.3.3186.14Gilbert, C.3.5991.72Gonzales, D.2.9779.43Greer, K.3.5490.81Griffin, K.3.6092.03Guajardo, C.3.6192.16Guia, J.2.3967.84Hayes, C.3.0080.00High, Q.3.0080.08Jackson, C.2.9979.80Jackson, K.2.5771.31Johnson, B.3.3787.38Johnson, D.3.5691.24Johnson, R.3.5190.22Kennedy, G.2.7073.95King, K.3.4589.03Kuffour, M.3.4188.28Lopez, T.2.4769.33Macias, D.3.5290.31Mancillas, J.3.5591.09Manning, A.3.9097.96Martinez, D.3.5390.67Martinez, S.3.5591.08Mathews, J.3.3587.07Maumalanga, J.3.6292.48McCrae, R.3.3987.75Morell, R.3.4789.38Nutall, S.2.3266.50O'Neill, A.3.7795.41Orta, J.3.1282.41Pedder III, D.3.3486.72Pittier, N.3.7294.36Quirindongo, P.3.9298.34Reed, M.3.6993.77Reyes, E.3.1983.82Rivera, R.3.2084.06Rodriguez, M.3.7795.35Ruiz, J.2.5671.16Rupp, T.3.5791.37Salinas , J.3.4889.51Schaar, C.3.2585.07Seals, D.3.7294.31Shaw, B.3.7695.25Shaw, M.3.6192.18Spencer, D.2.7374.68Sprenkle, D.3.4789.36Stingley, T.3.8196.26Tafolla, D.3.4989.77Taylor, J.3.3787.36Taylor, R.3.4789.35Thompson, K.2.5571.00Tibbs, K.3.1282.38Torres, J.3.8096.07Troy, B.3.8496.76Vargas, J.3.3186.19Vudoan, H.2.9679.11Walker, J.3.4889.57Walker, R.3.6893.68Watson , C.3.7194.26Weaver, C.3.3386.63Wiley, T.3.1081.95Wilkins, W.3.7695.11Wycoff, V.3.0380.61Yslas, B.3.4589.01

Forum: Current Class Progress ]]> http://www.pep-talks.org/post?id=6275195 Fri, 29 Mar 2013 20:21:45 GMT http://www.pep-talks.org/post/Class-19-6268989 When my husband found out about this program last year, he didn’t know what to think. He had just got moved to a unit close to home and was getting visits on a regular basis and couldn’t imagine giving that up. Not to mention that he would be moved to a unit more than 9 hours away should he be accepted for the challenge. Needless to say, after a few words of encouragement he took the first steps for consideration, gave up his visitations and is now a member of PEP.

I am excited to be following the progress of my husband Juan Vargas and Noble Class 19 and I must say that I truly believe that this is a God given opportunity that has been placed in his path. I would like to commend him for the sacrifices that he has made and his commitment to this program. I have been able to see firsthand the effect that PEP has had on him and I am proud to witness the changes he has made cause of the chance that he was willing to take.

I know that PEP has high standards and expectations for their students. With all the fundamentals that PEP has and continue to instilling in him, I truly believe that he will be able to enter back into the free-world a productive citizen of society. Thank you PEP for believing in my husband, the way that I believe in him.

Juan keep working hard to pursue what you set out to do and make this time count for something. God has laid down the groundwork for you to great things with your life.

Forum: Family Discussions ]]> http://www.pep-talks.org/post?id=6268989 Mon, 25 Mar 2013 22:36:51 GMT http://www.pep-talks.org/post/Class-19-Week-10-6267667 Week 10

Monday, March 4, 2013— It was time to go back to the computer lab and those spreadsheets. They say it will help us to know this stuff, but it is not much fun at times. We know we should understand it, and we appreciate it. Next it was time for the much-feared Toastmasters. Well, maybe it is not as feared as it was when we first began. We heard from our brother Chivas S. (a.k.a. Disco Diva) with a well-delivered speech on when enough is enough, which referred to the leniency of our accountability process. We also heard from Jack H. (a.k.a. Lady Gaga) on his transformation and his frequent references to worms—poor Jack, he seems to like worms, or more accurately, caterpillars. It was a good analogy, about how the worm-like caterpillar transforms into a beautiful butterfly.

Tuesday, March 5, 2013— Popped! No, not really—we should have known we had a Chapter 6 test coming our way, but not so early in the day. As Pat M. (a.k.a. Patty Cakes) says, “stay ready, to keep from getting ready.” We were blessed with a film from Rob Bell sharing some more wisdom with us on how we must not let bitterness into our lives, not even a little bit, or it will take over. Rob’s wisdom hit home for some of us, if you can imagine it.

Bert S. (a.k.a. Chocolate Truffles) brought with him another truckload of knowledge for us to soak up like sponges, which I know we all achieved. Then we went over those dynamite EOU’s—we say dynamite because the Economics of One Unit (EOU’s) pack a big punch in such a small package.

Wednesday, March 6, 2013— We experienced a few pray outs today. We all love seeing these times and will be completely grateful when it is our time to be released. First up was Fernando S. (a.k.a. Bobble Head), with encouragement from John C. (a.k.a. Bobby Hill), John M. (a.k.a. Dancing Sugar Bear), Alfredo M. (a.k.a. Sweet-N-Sour Kung Fu Panda), Raymond W. (a.k.a. Baby Pat), Roger R. (a.k.a. Rainbow Bright), Richard V. (a.k.a. Purple Rain), Wilbert P. (a.k.a. Sweet Green Mile), and last but not least Pat M. (a.k.a. Patty Cakes). Next, it was Joe H. (a.k.a. Eddie Monster), with his encouragement from Wilbert P. (a.k.a. Sweet Green Mile), Louis A. (a.k.a. Sweet Peppermint), Fernando S. (a.k.a. Bobble Head), Patrick F. (a.k.a. Selena), and Raymond W. (a.k.a. Baby Pat). Our last pray out for the day was for James J. (a.k.a. Raisinette) with encouraging words from Roger R. (a.k.a. Rainbow Bright), John M. (a.k.a. Madagascar), Kinshana C. (a.k.a. Sweet Bobby Bouche), Justin D. (a.k.a. Baby Powder), Charles H. (a.k.a. Chatter Box), and Charles H. (a.k.a. Kandy Kangaroo).

Charles H. (a.k.a. Chatter Box) followed up all the sweet time with a presentation over credit card purchasing and responsibility. Financial Literacy is great stuff. And yes - we got popped with a quiz over the chapters we were supposed to have been reading. OUCH! Finally, Charles H. (a.k.a. Kandy Kangaroo) delivered a presentation over our revenue models for our business. Then our favorite time of all came: it was time for some more interesting art history.

Thursday, March 7, 2013— Jeremy G. (a.k.a. Miss Piggy Bank) showed up and gave us a presentation on love and his history of existence. He gave us a very large amount of encouragement: affection (physical childhood), friendship (adolescence), eros (compassion) and agape (godly love). We also witnessed a pray our for Mike B. (a.k.a. Star Bright) with encouragement from Wilbert P. (a.k.a. Sweet Green  Mile), Jason B. (a.k.a. Sweet Jerry Springer) Timothy G. (a.k.a. Snooky), Raphael A. (a.k.a. Baby Doll), Charles H. (a.k.a. Kandy Kangaroo), Richard R. (a.k.a. Dora the Explorer) and wise words from our brother Mike. Terry G. (a.k.a. Wonder Twin) and Morgan C. (a.k.a. Sweet Big Mac) got called out for their birthday dances and presents, followed by more art history. Then we had some history of classical music time covering Jaz Coleman.

Friday, March 8, 2013 — We had a day off, but there are always things to do. Busy, busy, busy! There was the Bait of Satan class, instead of our Friday devotion. Marcus H. (a.k.a. Sweet Sugar Hill) taught the class. It is never too late to sign up, and if you don’t catch this class you can get the next. Come join us brothers as we learn the offenses of Satan.

How can we bless others? We were made for so much more than riches. We must think about what we do have instead of what we don’t have.

It is best to lay up a firm foundation. When we do good deeds, we are helping the world grow. What is our view on the world? The difference between what we are doing and what we are capable of doing would solve most of the world’s problems!

Forum: Journals ]]> http://www.pep-talks.org/post?id=6267667 Mon, 25 Mar 2013 04:58:59 GMT http://www.pep-talks.org/post/Class-19-Week-9-6251903 Week 9

Monday, February 25, 2013— Computer lab is always something to look forward to along with all of the market research and other information about our businesses. There is a plethora of information at our disposal! Then we had our Toastmasters class, which has helped us greatly, and we have been through more than a couple of speeches. Every time we get up there it gets easier and we are more confident. Thank you again, Jim A. (a.k.a. Smuckleberry Fudge).

Tuesday, February 26, 2013— Today had a lot going on, such as the awards that were received by the following brothers: Manual R. (a.k.a. Rumpelstiltskin) – Servant-Leader Mentality Award; Travious C. (a.k.a. Balloon Queen) – Servant-Leader Mentality Award; and Pedro C. (a.k.a. Sweet Pocahontas) – Most Improved Academically Award. Then we had the difficult chapter test over the Economics of One Unit (EOUs), after which we also covered notes on Chapter Six. After all that we were blessed with a speech from our brother Raphael A. (a.k.a. Baby Doll) to represent the Class of Noble 19.

Wednesday, February 27, 2013— Well, we had an exciting day with 40 people from the Philanthropy Roundtable. They came to visit and see what PEP is about. We received tons of information from Jeremy G. (a.k.a. Miss Piggy Bank). Al M. (a.k.a. Granny Panties) had a truly inspiring story about himself which he presented to the Philanthropy Roundtable. We even were visited by our very own celebrities, “The Sizzling Six.” Man, can they dance! Then we had Jeremy present all of us with the marvelous statistics that PEP has accomplished.

We would like to acknowledge Charles H. (a.k.a. Chatter Box) for his story of transformation as well. Rafael A. (a.k.a. Baby Doll) did a superb job at delivering his pitch to the Philanthropy Roundtable and Andrae E. (a.k.a. Sweet Coca Puffs) with his story of transformation was great as well. We could not forget Clarence C. (a.k.a. Little Richie) with his pitch that represented the class of Extraordinary 18. Mr. Bert S. (a.k.a. Chocolate Truffles), the CEO of PEP, gave us his history with PEP, followed by PEP’s Chairman of the Board, Mr. Mike H. (a.k.a. Poodle Doo). He told us about his ventures and commitments to PEP, which is nothing short of extraordinary, and how he has invested in all of us. We truly thank him for this. Last but not least, we heard from James C. (a.k.a. Buffy the Bear), owner of Cornish Trucking, and how his success came about when Mike H. helped him in a time of need.

Thursday, February 28, 2013— Be aware of the character assassins. I hope that it is not just me who pretends to be fine, but at times I am really struggling. That is what I received from the video Character Assassins.  It is not by coincidence that we are blessed to be “Noble 19” because there is a need of nobility in relationships. One of the
Ten Driving Values, Love, is all about giving sacrificially and generously to one another’s needs.  True success is if the people you want to love you really do in fact love you. Now that truly is success.

Friday, March 1, 2013— Today is a day to catch up on any studying, homework, or anything else. It is not often that we have some extra time on our hands. We know better now than to run around like a chicken with his head cut off. We are growing up and leading ourselves by taking responsibility. Everything we’ve worked so hard to build is at stake, so each of us tries to press in harder and harder every day by taking control of every opportunity. We cannot forget to be like the duck, letting the water run off of our backs so that we can make better leadership decisions. Stay encouraged!

There is one thing that we all dread and that is the moment our junk catches up with us. Of course, it is always easier to run than it is to face the truth, but is that truly the right thing to do? We all know that we should at least face our troubles head on. Noble 19 will not give up, but we will remember that what does not kill us will only make us stronger.

Forum: Journals ]]> http://www.pep-talks.org/post?id=6251903 Fri, 15 Mar 2013 02:05:26 GMT http://www.pep-talks.org/post/Class-19-Week-8-6241407 Week 8

Monday, February 18, 2013— Well, we got to sit out for a day of reflection on our presidents. Yes, it is Presidents’ Day… no formal meetings today. Does anybody know any of our previous presidents or how many we have had since Washington?

Tuesday, February 19, 2013— After pray in today, Mario D. (a.k.a. Sweet Strawberry Patch) received his birthday presents, but not without that dance. Then, Raphael L. (a.k.a. Miss Piggy) received his pray out, with encouraging words from Russell F. (a.k.a. Carmella), Christopher H. (a.k.a. Porky Pig), Larry F. (a.k.a. Born This Way), and Norris G. (a.k.a. Sweet Elvis Presley). After that, David P. (a.k.a. Pygmy Goat) danced for his “most improved academically” award. This was followed by our test for chapter five over mission statements and business strategy. Toward the end of class we had a schedule shift to Living in the Village, our financial literacy course. Great stuff… In conclusion for Tuesday, we were blessed with a couple of films from America, The Story of Us—“Superpower” and “Millennium.”

Wednesday, February 20, 2013— We were all anticipating and anxiously awaiting our scores for our chapter five tests. We waited an extra day for our fearless leader to join us. It is always a pleasure to see Bert S. (a.k.a. Chocolate Truffles) review the results of our exams; he seems to express a lot of patience. LOL…

Now, it was time to get down to the nitty gritty. We got really excited when we heard we were going to be working with numbers. Financials time! These formulas in life will allow us to live within our means.

Thursday, February 21, 2013— Well, they got us! They POPPED us good! We all know that if there is one test we have heard a lot about, it was the names test. As we proceeded through class, Pat M. (a.k.a. Patty Cakes) said, “Everything under your seats.” Those were the only words that we heard before receiving a packet of papers with our PEP brothers’ faces on them. This was when we realized how important it was to know our PEP brothers’ names, as well as their faces.

Friday, February 22, 2013— WOW! Venture Capital Panel time – what  a day! There were a lot of executives that showed up today. And how about those panels? Was anyone besides me a little nervous? Man, it was like Shark Tank, and we were so nervous we almost chewed off our tongues, hurled, and whatever else one might do in a panic. We received a bunch of great and very helpful feedback. Some of us even received updated information on what is new and up-and-coming in our industry. So much information and insight can only come from someone who truly loves us – thank  you, PEP. And how about our very own “Sizzling Six” dance group? We would like to thank the executives again for all they have done. We can’t wait to see them at our next event. You are all in our prayers—God bless you!

Saturday, February 23, 2013— Today we had business Concept Day which consisted of executives spending their Saturday with all of us, in prison. No wonder the free world continues to put PEP in the newspapers. We are truly blessed and appreciative to have such a wonderful group of individuals donating their Saturday to us. To have the executives show up and spend their free time with a bunch of people they do not know restores all kinds of HOPE within us. Thank you—we cannot say it enough. We were blessed to have lunch with the executives, but we were sorry about the lunch. You seem to get used to prison food after a while. LOL! You cannot help but think about the shape the world is in sometimes. But with people like these executives coming into prison helps me to see that there is still hope in our crazy world!

Holy cow, man! I heard so many people say, “Man, that was like Shark Tank.” I felt the same way. Talk about nerve-wracking— I know it only gets easier because when I first started I was terrible in delivering my presentation. I feel completely confident that by the time I get out and interview for a job, I am going to be amazing!

Forum: Journals ]]> http://www.pep-talks.org/post?id=6241407 Thu, 07 Mar 2013 21:22:51 GMT http://www.pep-talks.org/post/Class-19-Week-7-6241405 Week 7

Monday, February 11, 2013— Well it was nice today to go into the computer class and continue to work through the exercises available to us as well as view more market research for our business plan. The afternoon Toastmasters class brought several speeches from our brothers and more ease with public speaking.  

Tuesday, February 12, 2013— Noble 19 is really showing their true potential. We started off with demonstrations of what the Venture Capital Panel (VCP) is going to be like by some graduates, and then we gave a couple.Then our very own fearless leader and CEO Bert S. (a.k.a. Chocolate Truffles) went over chapter five in our entrepreneurship book after we tested on chapter four. After that we had the “issue and tissue” segment, where we ask Bert if our answers are sufficient to get credit for the questions. The final highlight was having a reporter that writes for the Texas Tribune named Maurice come to help promote PEP.

Wednesday, February 13, 2013— Together we will grow. Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate, but that we are powerful beyond measure. Those are powerful words from Class 17’s Charles H. (a.k.a. Chatterbox). We commend you for giving us an overview of the book Living in the Village by Ryan Mack. This book will change our outlook on life. As we broke up into groups and shared our thoughts with each other, we learned a little more about our position in the community, a position that the whole community or village can benefit from. We will, by sticking together, make our communities stronger.

Thursday, February 14, 2013— Reporters from The Houston Chronicle showed up today - talk about a surprise! As they took notes on our class we started watching a Nooma video about how today’s Christians are getting carried away with condemning people to hell. Rob Bell speaks of how this negative talk only brings people down further. We then caught our first glimpse of PEP TV (Noble 19’s Kick-off) from our videography team. Man, it looked great! Please keep up the awesome work guys. We also watched more on America, The Story of Us. Today it covered World War II and how the women of our country took up the slack and fueled the war with the manufacturing of ammunitions, planes, and tanks. The people are what make a country great. We have big shoes to fill. May God bless us!

Friday, February 15, 2013— Today we had a very special visit from Mike H. (a.k.a. Poodle Do). Mike’s story hit close to home with a few of us. Mike is the kind of guy we need to keep around at all times. He has not only blessed our lives with his presence but also with wisdom and insight. Mike’s story is also a prime example of how prison can affect the lives of men who never set foot in prison. So, for those of you in the free world: beware, because here we come to share our lives and help to transform others’ lives as well. Mike has showed great love for PEP and we are forever grateful. Thank you. America the Story of Us never gets old. Today’s episode consisted of the end of World War II and how the economy was stimulated by the war. It also covered “The Baby Boom.” The documentary then covered the boom in housing construction.

What a week! I found out that it makes a difference if you find those four or five guys Mike H. (a.k.a. Poodle Do) was referring to. They will be there to lift you up when you need it the most, and they are there when you mess up. The truth is a powerful thing, and I have grown to love it. For you guys who have not, I suggest you do and grow some thicker skin. May God continue to work in all our lives, all the time. Amen.

Forum: Journals ]]> http://www.pep-talks.org/post?id=6241405 Thu, 07 Mar 2013 21:21:28 GMT http://www.pep-talks.org/post/Class-19-Week-6-6231561 Week 6

Monday, February 4, 2013— Rise and shine sleepy heads! It is time for computer lab! Research, research, research! With the Venture Capital Panels (VCP) coming up, we need all the research we can get. Then of course it’s Toastmasters, as we come to a close with all the Class 19 Ice Breakers speeches and getting to know our PEP brothers better. I wonder what my next speech is going to be about? Only time will tell, brothers. Stay encouraged.

Tuesday February 5, 2013— Well today was a surprise. We had Class 8 graduate Richard Cantu (a.k.a. Purry) speak encouraging words to us and share his successful business plan. He opened my eyes to what is possible. Class 18 brother Juan Villanueva is going home soon, so we prayed him out, and then we had a chance to speak life to him and into his life.

We learned quite a lot about the video “Dust” from actor Rob Bell: do the right things, whether they are big things or small things. That is what shapes us. May you be covered in the dust of your Rabbi, and do not doubt yourself.

Wednesday February 6, 2013— Everyone has been practicing their three-minute pitch. Well, they are supposed to be anyways, but we were not ready for what was about to happen. We were asked to give our speeches today - anyone else a little nervous? 

Mike W. (a.k.a. Fog Horn-Leg Horn) will soon be free to go out and make his mark upon the world, this time in a positive way. Take care and make us proud, brother.

Thursday February 7, 2013— American history and the Civil War – talk  about a war. Could you imagine, brother against brother? The Civil War tore the nation apart and built it all at the same time. What is meant by this is that the north and the south were divided, but because of the needs of the war there were advances in medical procedures, weapons, communications and the railroads. History is not always a glorious thing or something to be proud of, but it is interesting, nonetheless. There are great lessons to be learned from history if we step back and pay attention.

Something else we have noticed was that a little piece of paper referred to as the Character Assessment was on quite a few minds. It is just like Pat M. (a.k.a. Sweet Precious) said, “It is only a tool to help you. Use it; do not let it hinder your growth.”

Friday February 8, 2013— As we came in today we were blessed with a history movie, America: The Story of Us, which was about everything from France’s gift to our country (Statue of Liberty) to Carnegie and his mass production of steel…great stuff. Then we witnessed a birthday dance from Keith J. (a.k.a. Little Red Riding Hood), along with his two-minute pitch. Nevertheless, we were blessed twice in one day with a second movie called The Avengers. Cool flick…We ended the day with some key words about “Discipline” from Rodney W. (a.k.a. California Raisin).

It was quite a week! Everybody was on the edge of their seats, waiting for their turn to speak with Pat M. about their character assessment results. Also, seeing the curriculum build the business world up in my mind has been really interesting. The hunger continues to mount!

Forum: Journals ]]> http://www.pep-talks.org/post?id=6231561 Fri, 01 Mar 2013 06:40:00 GMT http://www.pep-talks.org/post/Class-19-Week-5-6231559 Week 5

Monday, January 28, 2013— I don’t think I will ever grow tired of going to the computer lab and learning all kinds of important essentials for navigating through the computer and my business plan. Each week gets more interesting.

Toastmasters today was great, and we also shared more Ice Breakers (our personal life stories). I was able to share mine and I felt like this allowed my brothers to get to know me better. I cannot wait until my next opportunity to give a speech and express myself.

Tuesday, January 29, 2013— Just like we discussed last week, Bert (a.k.a. Chocolate Truffles), our instructor, has allowed us to live out PEP’s 10 Driving Values. What I mean by that is that he asked if everyone had read the chapter this week and witnessed the integrity of the room. Then Bert had those of us who did not read the chapter stand on our heads and recite the 10 Driving Values. It was integrity with fun rolled into one. We finished off with a good old-fashioned test on Chapter 3 of our business book. We did great as always.

Wednesday, January 30, 2013— Guess what? We had a surprise visit from this wonderful man named Dr. Yonkers today, and he helped us understand ourselves a little better. We really like this guy; he knows what wants and needs, especially from my peers, are driving us. Dr. Yonkers even made an example out of few guys who were not grasping the importance of the class. It was a learning experience we all benefited from.

Thursday, January 31, 2013— As we went into the meeting today we experienced some awards being given: for most improved academically, John Paul G. (a.k.a. Rihanna). Also some of our fellow journalist and newspaper writers were honored. Among them were Larry F. (a.k.a. Born This Way), Patrick B. (a.k.a. Dorothy), Benjamin Y. (a.k.a. Chester Cheetah), Metron C. (a.k.a. Smiley Cyrus), Roland B. (a.k.a. Oprah Winfrey), Manuel R. (a.k.a. Rumplestiltskin), and Jack P. (a.k.a. Sweet Don King). After our awards we witnessed three pray outs as Class 19 brother Jack P. (a.k.a. Sweet Don King) and Class 18 brothers Baldwin G. (a.k.a. Steve Irkle) and David M. (a.k.a. Puss-n- Boots) gave inspiring words to the rest of us to keep pressing on.

Next we had a presentation from Charles H. (a.k.a. Kandy Kangaroo) about our product/service offering. To top off the day we finished with a movie about U.S. History, as well as some classical music time featuring R&B performers from the ‘40s and ‘50s, followed up by more modern entertainers.

Friday, February 1, 2013— It was somewhat of a different morning today. We went in and received two papers, one with pictures of our classmates and the other with blank slots to put their names for the character assessment. It was interesting to document our brother’s characteristics that we live around. I hope we grow from this. Later we had some visitors from our re-entry team, Greg M. and Harvey M. These guys covered an abundance of information regarding us and our re-entry back into society. Great stuff!!!

I thought the week was pretty full. As we maneuvered through the week it was full of new and different things, from computer lessons to personality types. To hear from Greg and Harvey brought some assurance that we are not alone. The things those guys do to help us are unbelievable.

Forum: Journals ]]> http://www.pep-talks.org/post?id=6231559 Fri, 01 Mar 2013 06:39:09 GMT http://www.pep-talks.org/post/Transitional-Housing-WHAT-IS-IT-6221342 PEP-operated transitional homes offer a safe, stable place where PEP graduates can slowly get used to "living at the speed of life" out here in the free world.  There is no programming - mandatory or otherwise - but there is plenty of accountability and encouragement.

PEP makes sure graduates in our transitional housing are in a supportive environment with subject-matter experts at their disposal to help manage their transition.  We also treat these men as adults – we do not do for them what they can do for themselves.  This allows them to make decisions and become the balanced, independent men God always intended them to be.  Some important facts families should know:

• There is no minimum or maximum length of stay in one of our transitional homes – it is made available to graduates for as long as they feel they need it

• PEP does not expect a rent payment until the man has a job

• We encourage families to visit their loved ones at the transitional home!

• Each man is assigned a PEP Re-entry Coordinator whose job is to help with day-to-day reintegration issues and concerns, including parole, IDs, employment opportunities, etc.

Helping the men find that first job after being released is a top priority.  PEP works with employers in both Houston and Dallas who know the quality of PEP graduates and let us know when they have job openings.  To be clear: PEP does not get jobs for our graduates.  However, we alert graduates when there are job openings in companies we have established relationships with, provide transportation to (and appropriate clothing for) interviews, provide computer access to update resumes, etc.

We know it can be difficult for family members to wait any longer for their loved ones – after years in prison, it is normal to want your loved one to come straight home.  It can be even more difficult to trust that your loved one is making good choices in a city far away, where family cannot keep tabs on what is going on.  However, please consider that if you have waited a long time for your loved one to be released, allowing him to be away just a little while longer so he can become a strong, stable and reliable son/father/brother/friend/employee - one who can prove that he is committed to his own freedom - is absolutely worth it! 

So what can family members do in the meantime? 

1. Pray for your loved one
2. Encourage him to do everything he possibly can to support and maintain his own freedom
3. When emotions cloud the issue, keep the end goal in mind
4. Allow him to earn his own way – he does not need things handed to him, but instead he needs to earn what he wants, which is a great incentive for getting that first job
5. Allow him to earn your trust

Forum: Frequently Asked Questions ]]> http://www.pep-talks.org/post?id=6221342 Fri, 22 Feb 2013 16:26:42 GMT